Wedged between Randwick and UNSW, Kensington has long punched above its weight for a suburb of its size β and the stretch of Anzac Parade running through it has become one of the more reliably good eating strips on this side of the city. It’s a suburb that mixes serious student-budget value with a handful of genuine destination spots, and the Google reviews across the board back that up.
We’ve pulled together seven of the best restaurants in and around Kensington, from a Vietnamese spot locals say the area was missing, to an Italian kitchen turning out gnocchi reviewers call some of the best in Sydney. As always, this isn’t a definitive ranking, just a solid list based on what locals keep coming back for.
1. Khao Thai Kensington
β 4.7/5 (116 Google reviews)
A relaxed, contemporary Thai restaurant on Anzac Parade doing the classics well, from stir-fried noodles to fried rice. Reviewers consistently praise the atmosphere and service, with the fried rice and noodle dishes singled out as standouts β though a couple of reviews note portions can run on the smaller side for the price.
Try: Larb Chicken, Crispy Money Bag, Gai Yaang, Mango Sticky Rice, Laksa Noodle Soup
π Address: Shop 1/240 Anzac Parade, Kensington NSW 2033
πΊοΈ View on Google Maps β
Price guide: $20β40 per person Β· +61 2 8567 6689
2. Kurryosity
β 4.8/5 (141 Google reviews)
An Indo-Chinese and Mexican fusion restaurant that’s built a devoted following on genuinely unique flavour combinations. Reviewers repeatedly call it “epic” and highlight the generous portions and friendly, attentive service at very reasonable prices β a strong pick for anyone after something a bit different from the usual Kensington rotation.
Try: Afghani Chicken, Dragon Chicken Noodles, Kung Pao, Paneer Pita
π Address: Unit 4/15 Ascot St, Kensington NSW 2033
πΊοΈ View on Google Maps β
Price guide: $1β20 per person Β· +61 2 9858 6174
3. Stable Talk Cafe Kensington
β 4.3/5 (313 Google reviews)
A reliable all-day cafe on Anzac Parade doing generous breakfasts and burgers at fair prices. Reviewers consistently rate the atmosphere and staff highly, with the Zinga Burger and cooked breakfasts regular favourites β a solid, no-fuss option for a casual meal any time of day.
Try: Schnitty Burger, The Stable Burger, Spanish Style Baked Eggs, Pulled Pork Roll
π Address: 214 Anzac Parade, Kensington NSW 2033
πΊοΈ View on Google Maps β
Price guide: $20β40 per person Β· +61 2 9662 2100
4. Happy Pho
β 4.9/5 (140 Google reviews)
A genuine local favourite, with more than one reviewer noting the area was crying out for a proper pho spot before this one opened. Expect fast, friendly service and generous, well-priced bowls that regulars say are worth the return visit β a straightforward, no-frills Vietnamese option done properly.
Try: Phα» with Beef Brisket and Tendons, Rice Paper Rolls, Crispy Chicken
π Address: 2/160 Anzac Parade, Kensington NSW 2033
πΊοΈ View on Google Maps β
Price guide: $1β20 per person Β· +61 468 483 229
5. Stellini Pasta Bar
β 4.3/5 (291 Google reviews)
Tucked inside UNSW’s Kensington campus, this casual pasta bar has built a strong following well beyond the student crowd. Reviewers praise the consistently good food, service and staff, with the daily pumpkin soup earning a specific mention β though a handful note servings can feel small for the price on busier days.
Try: Di Mare Pasta, Cheese Tortellini Carbonara, Penne Pollo
π Address: Gate 2, 11 High St, Kensington NSW 2033
πΊοΈ View on Google Maps β
Price guide: $1β20 per person Β· +61 469 837 049
6. Fana’s Italian Kitchen Kensington
β 4.9/5 (258 Google reviews)
One of the standout ratings on this list, and it’s easy to see why β this family-run Italian kitchen has built a loyal following on handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza and classic desserts. Reviewers describe the gnocchi as some of the best they’ve had, with the eggplant focaccia sandwich and meatballs also drawing consistent praise for genuine, well-executed Italian cooking.
Try: Gnocchi, Wood-Fired Pizza, Meatball Roll, Cannoli Siciliani, Lasagna Alla Bolognese
π Address: 152 Anzac Parade, Kensington NSW 2033
πΊοΈ View on Google Maps β
Price guide: $20β40 per person Β· +61 479 161 628
7. Sushi Tengoku
β 4.1/5 (664 Google reviews)
A busy, no-frills sushi spot that’s been a Kensington fixture since 1999. Reviewers consistently praise the freshness and presentation of the sushi, along with the flexibility to customise bento boxes, making it a dependable choice whether you’re after a quick lunch or a proper sashimi spread.
Try: Volcano Maki, Salmon Aburi, Sashimi Moriawase, Chirashi Bento Box
π Address: 262 Anzac Parade, Kensington NSW 2033
πΊοΈ View on Google Maps β
Price guide: $20β40 per person Β· +61 429 111 065
That’s our pick of seven standout spots in and around Kensington β proof that a suburb built around a university strip can still deliver some genuinely excellent food. Got a favourite we’ve missed? Let us know in the comments, or drop us a line β we’re always keen to hear where locals are eating.
