Eat out without forking out

A guide to frugal fine dining in Sydney

Noteworthy for: The strong Australian dollar can make Sydney's already pricey menus prohibitive for some visitors. Ask around about dining deals. Word to the wise: NSW and VIC restaurants are measured in "hats" awarded by the 'Sydney Morning Herald's Good Food Guide'. The best eats score three.

A top-tier meal in Sydney can total the weekly earnings of a minimum wager, and with Australian pay packets among the world's largest, that's saying something. If you're on a budget or forgot to book ahead, you can still dine out at some of the city's top eateries for less. Here's a few tips:

Go for lunch: Three-hat harbourside restaurant Quay (mod-Oz) offers a three-course lunch for AUD 125, while dinner will set you back AUD 220.

Sit at the bar: Chic eats including three-hat Sepia (mod-Japanese) and two-hat Longrain (mod-Thai) offer a cheaper menu for those happy to pull up a stool.

Opt for prix fixe: Contemporary European three-hatter Marquee's Friday lunch menu sets the benchmark for good value. Foveaux (mod-Euro) and Yoshii (Japanese) follow suit.

Eat early: Just below Russell Crowe's apartment, Italian one-hatter Otto offers a cheaper menu for those happy to eat before 7pm. Northside Italian Ormeggio also offers a sunset special.

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