There’s nothing like heading out for a great meal in Sydney. The city is packed with places that know how to serve up flavour, atmosphere, and a good time. But while the food usually hits the mark, drinks can be a different story if you're after something non-alcoholic. Most menus are limited, and it’s frustrating when the only options are soft drinks or sugary mocktails. That’s where BYO comes in. Bringing your own non-alcoholic wine means you get to enjoy the food you love with a drink that actually suits your taste. We’ve rounded up five restaurants that make it easy to do just that, offering great food and a warm welcome for whatever’s in your bottle
Why BYO Non-Alcoholic Wine in Sydney?
Sydney's best restaurants often have limited non-alcoholic drinks lists. BYO lets you:
✔ Enjoy world-class pairings with wines that most venues don't stock
✔ Save 50-70% versus restaurant markups
✔ Stay sober-social without compromising on taste
1. Emma's Snack Bar
(Lebanese eatery located at 59 Liberty St, Enmore)
🍽️ Special Cuisine: Moorish Chicken
💰 Corkage: $6 per person
🍷 Perfect Pairing: Next Destination McLaren Vale Chardonnay
The smoky, spiced Moorish chicken is their signature dish that is an absolute must-have, and to pair this delectable dish, nothing beats the creamy and soft citrus flavours of non-alcoholic McLaren Vale Chardonnay from Next Destination Wines. The chicken's bold garlic and roasted flavours pair wonderfully with this non-alcoholic Chardonnay, which ensures it doesn't overshadow the flavours of both dish and the wine.
Pro Tip: Don't miss their side special baked ladies fingers for that extra crisp texture.
2. Spice I Am
(Thai restaurant located at 90 Wentworth Ave, Surry Hills)
🍽️ Special Cuisine: Massaman Curry Duck
💰 Corkage: $5 per person
🍷 Perfect Pairing: Thomson & Scott Noughty Sparkling Chardonnay
This is another crowd-favourite Thai restaurant that is famous for its delicious and unique Thai cuisine and is one of the most happening places to be around, having all the good food and good vibes. Their signature menu has Massaman Curry Duck, which tastes like heaven for those who love Thai curries, and to elevate your experience further, pairing it with the global fave non-alcoholic Sparkling Chardonnay from Thomson & Scott Noughty makes the perfect pairing. This organic, vegan sparkling has crisp apple and pear notes with nice bubbles that cut through the richness of coconut curry. The crisp acidity cleanses the palate between bites, keeping everything balanced and refreshing rather than overwhelming.
Pro Tip: No reservations taken, so arrive early to book your table; it's actually worth the wait.
3. Grappa Ristorante
(Italian restaurant & bar in 1/267-277 Norton St, Leichhardt)
🍽️ Special Cuisine: Mancini Spaghetti with Rock Lobster, cherry tomato, garlic, chilli, and parsley
💰 Corkage: $6.50 per person
🍷 Perfect Pairing: Next Destination Langhorne Creek Blanc de Blanc
Looking for a chic and authentic Italian dining experience right here in Sydney? This is the perfect spot to do an Italian date night right. While everything on the menu is worth trying, the standout is their Mancini Spaghetti with Rock Lobster, a dish that pairs beautifully with the Langhorne Creek Blanc de Blanc. This elegant non-alcoholic sparkling wine from Next Destination offers crisp citrus notes, green apple flavours, a lively fizz, and subtle brioche undertones. Its refreshing acidity cuts through the garlic-butter sauce while enhancing the lobster’s natural sweetness, making it the ultimate pairing for a romantic and flavourful dinner.
Pro Tip: When you're craving authentic Italian cuisine, this place ticks all the boxes for traditional flavours done right.
4. Two Chaps
(Artisan café, bakery, and pasta nights in 122 Chapel St, Marrickville)
🍽️ Special Cuisine: Set Menu Dinner- Handmade Ravioli & Classic Spaghetti
💰 Corkage: $10 per bottle
🍷 Perfect Pairings: Pernelle Cuvée Genesis
An all-rounder café that truly has it all; warm, aesthetic ambiance, freshly baked handmade goods, and a delicious set-menu dinner perfect for casual evenings out. Their Handmade Ravioli and Classic Spaghetti are local favourites. Prefer something sparkling? Bring along a bottle of Pernelle Cuvée Genesis, a non-alcoholic sparkling wine with lively bubbles and notes of green apple and citrus. Its bright acidity cuts through the creamy texture of the ravioli while lifting the flavours of both pasta dishes, making it a truly perfect combo.
Pro Tip: Great options for dietary restrictions, they offer both vegan and gluten-free alternatives without compromising on flavour.
5. La Disfida
(Italian pizzeria in 109 Ramsay St, Haberfield NSW)
🍽️ Special Cuisine: Pizza Bianca - Speck, Cavolo nero, Roasted potatoes, Ricotta, Fried capers and Fresh Black Truffle
💰 Corkage: BYO Tuesday-Thursday only, $15 per bottle
🍷 Perfect Pairing: NON #2 Caramelised Pear & Kombu
Looking for the best Italian pizza in town? La Disfida is the first name that comes to mind whenever someone asks, “Where’s the best pizza place around here?” With a rotating menu that features something new and unique every week, it’s a local favourite that never disappoints. And since it’s BYO, it’s the perfect opportunity to bring along a crisp, cider-like non-alcoholic sparkling wine like NON 2 Caramelised Pear & Kombu. This exciting pairing shines thanks to the umami-rich kombu, which beautifully complement the rich, roasted flavours of authentic Italian pizza. It’s a match made in flavour heaven, making it an absolute must-try combo for all the pizza lovers out there.
Pro Tip: Perfect spot for Pizza lovers, offering pizza selection weekly, so there's always something new to try.
Making the Most of Your BYO Experience
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Right Temperature Matters: Chill reds to 14°C, whites to 8°C and sparkling wines are best when chilled 4-10°C.
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Glassware: Politely ask for proper wine glasses, most places will cooperate.
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Communication: Always call ahead to confirm NA corkage terms and conditions.
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Plan Ahead: Call restaurants to confirm their current BYO policies and corkage fees, as these can change seasonally.
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Savour Quality: Consider premium non-alcoholic wines, the indulgence is worth it when paired with excellent food.
The best part about Sydney’s BYO culture? You get to bring your favourite non-alcoholic wines and still enjoy a premium dining experience that comes with no compromises and no headaches. Whether you're enjoying spiced Thai curries or elegant Italian cuisines, these restaurants welcome your kind of beverage choices.
Ready for your next dine out in Sydney? Visit Sans Drinks for Australia's best selection of non-alcoholic wines and start planning your perfect BYO experience today. Also don't forget to tag and mention @sansdrinks in your BYO adventures for featured spots on our socials!
