Kiln

Level 18, Ace Hotel. Forget the usual stiff hotel dining—this rooftop boîte is a masterclass in fire, smoke, and native Australian terroir. Sydney's culinary set is quietly obsessed with the kitchen's wood-fired hearth. Dimly lit. Ridiculously cozy. An open kitchen blazing in the background. The smart play? The set menu backed by a killer all-Australian wine pairing. Those who frequent the dining room consider the potato bread a non-negotiable order—crispy exterior, wildly creamy center—alongside a fiercely seasoned tuna tartare and a whole wood-roasted duck served with native leaves for wrapping. Flawless cuisson on the wagyu and beef carpaccio. Yes, the lighting is moody enough to require a squint, and an occasional oyster might miss the mark, but the sheer ambition on the plate is staggering. Sharp, deeply knowledgeable service. Floor-to-ceiling windows. Pure Surry Hills swagger.