Sydney Fish Market is one of the city’s must-visit attractions for seafood lovers. Located just minutes from the city center, it’s the largest working fish market in the Southern Hemisphere and the best place to taste Sydney’s freshest catch. From oysters and lobsters to crabs and sushi, visitors can enjoy affordable, high-quality seafood while soaking in views of the harbor. In this guide, I’ll share how to get there, the best food to try, and tips for making the most of your visit.

Highlights of Sydney Fish Market

Sydney Fish Market is where almost all of the city’s seafood passes through before reaching restaurants and stores. That means the seafood you eat here is as fresh as it gets. Inside the market, you’ll find a wide range of restaurants and food stalls, as well as outdoor terrace seating where you can enjoy crabs, oysters, and other delicacies while overlooking the harbor and Harbour Bridge.

Another unique feature is that many shops will cook your purchased seafood for a small additional fee—perfect if you want to enjoy your fish grilled or steamed on the spot. Pair it with a glass of white wine, and you’ll experience a weekend pastime loved by locals.

Interestingly, around 80% of visitors are from Asian countries such as China and Korea, reflecting just how popular this spot is among international tourists. And with Sydney ranking second in the world for seafood landings after Tokyo’s Tsukiji, the market is famous for its two signature delicacies: lobsters and oysters. Skipping them would be a real missed opportunity!







How to Get to Sydney Fish Market

Getting to Sydney Fish Market is simple and convenient. If you’re staying near the city center, it’s about a 20-minute walk, and the route itself is enjoyable—you’ll pass by the aquarium and cross a scenic bridge with great views along the way.

You can also take the light rail. From Central Station, follow the signs to the Light Rail terminal and ride until you reach Fish Market Station. It’s a direct stop, but finding the light rail platform at Central can be a bit tricky, so don’t hesitate to ask station staff if you need directions.
While trains are another option, the route tends to be indirect and time-consuming due to the layout of the city. Walking or taking the light rail is usually the fastest and most enjoyable choice.

Best Seafood & Lunch at Sydney Fish Market

The market offers both a fresh seafood section and plenty of food stalls where you can enjoy ready-to-eat meals. Inside the main building, you’ll find the Waterfront Arcade, a lively restaurant area with a wide variety of options. Some places let you pick your meal from a display and eat casually, while others are full-service restaurants with indoor and outdoor seating.

One of the most popular spots is the Fish Market Café, located on the left side as you enter. It has the widest selection of dishes, from grilled seafood to sushi rolls. Many people buy food here and then take it outside to enjoy on the terrace overlooking the water.

When I visited, I tried the salmon sushi rolls topped with scallops. While tasty, I wished they were served warm instead of cold. The price was about AUD $7 for two rolls (around ¥650).
Beyond seafood, the market also has bakeries, fruit shops, cheese stalls, and even kitchenware stores—so it’s much more than just a fish market. Whether you want a quick bite or a full sit-down meal, you’ll have plenty of choices.

Enjoy a Seafood Feast at Sydney Fish Market

Compared to Tokyo’s Tsukiji Market, Sydney Fish Market feels cleaner, more organized, and very much designed as a tourist-friendly destination. It’s the perfect place to stroll around, sample different seafood, and soak up the lively atmosphere.
One highlight you shouldn’t miss is the enormous king crab—often called the “emperor crab.” The sheer size is jaw-dropping, sometimes more than twice the size of a person’s head. Even if you don’t eat it, just seeing it up close is an unforgettable experience.
Whether it’s oysters, lobsters, or freshly grilled fish, the market offers something for every seafood lover. With its easy access, relaxed vibe, and unbeatable freshness, Sydney Fish Market is a must-visit spot for anyone traveling to Sydney.

Conclusion
Sydney Fish Market is more than just a place to buy seafood—it’s a must-visit destination where you can experience Sydney’s food culture at its best. From savoring fresh oysters and lobsters to enjoying casual sushi rolls or a full seafood platter, there’s something here for everyone.
With its convenient location, variety of dining options, and vibrant atmosphere, the market is perfect for a quick lunch stop or a half-day foodie adventure. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or simply curious to explore one of Sydney’s iconic spots, don’t miss the chance to experience the flavors of the sea at Sydney Fish Market.


