Sydney’s dining landscape just got a lot more glamorous. Oncore by Clare Smyth, nestled within the iconic Crown Sydney, brings not only a breathtaking setting but one of the most respected names in the culinary world. Clare Smyth is the first British woman to achieve three Michelin stars, and now her artistry graces our harbour city
Elements of Elegance on Every Plate
Peel back the layers of Crown’s polished reception and you’ll find Oncore waiting in a quiet corner where refined design meets soft, intentional lighting. The mood is exclusive, yet inviting, tailored for diners who want their evening to feel like an event without the pushiness of performance.
Oncore’s menu doesn’t rely on gimmicks; it honours ingredients, craftsmanship, and restraint. Each dish is a privilege, crafted to showcase freshness, technique, and a quiet confidence. Expect tasting menus that shift with the seasons, sourcing sustainably with precision and artistry
The cooking reflects Smyth’s philosophy: simple foundations elevated to near perfection, where every flavour sings without overpowering. Plates arrive not just as food but as considered presentations, clean lines, vibrant tones, and a balance that speaks of holistic thought.
A Venue Designed for the Moment
Crown Sydney is one of the city’s most distinctive landmarks, a glass and steel tower that curves gracefully into the skyline and reflects the harbour’s ever-changing light. Oncore occupies a prime position within this building, with dining rooms that take full advantage of the sweeping city and water views. Floor to ceiling windows wrap around the space, allowing guests to watch ferries glide across the harbour by day and see the twinkle of city lights by night.
The interior is modern but understated, designed to complement rather than compete with the view. Neutral tones dominate the palette, with soft creams, warm gold accents, and polished timber floors that add both warmth and elegance. Lighting is positioned with precision so that each table is softly illuminated without breaking the intimate atmosphere.
Tables are generously spaced, giving a sense of privacy that is rare in city dining. The chairs are upholstered in plush fabrics that encourage guests to linger, and every detail from the shape of the glassware to the weight of the cutlery has been chosen to enhance the tactile experience of the meal.
A Landmark Meal for Modern Society
Dining at Oncore is more than a fine meal; it is an encounter with the highest expression of culinary artistry in the city. This is a place where every moment feels deliberate and where the flow of the evening has been planned with the same care as the plating of each dish. Guests are encouraged to slow down and savour, not only the food but the rhythm of the experience.
The menu reflects a deep respect for produce and a willingness to allow each ingredient to shine. Seafood comes from the most pristine Australian waters, vegetables are sourced from small scale farms that specialise in rare and seasonal crops, and meats are selected from producers who prioritise quality and ethical farming. Each plate celebrates these origins with clarity and elegance.
Beyond the food, Oncore offers a connection to Sydney’s global identity. From its vantage point in Crown Sydney, the restaurant presents the city as a place that values innovation while honouring tradition. The harbour views, the understated luxury of the space, and the precision of the service create a complete portrait of modern Sydney at its most refined.
This is not simply a venue for special occasions. It is a benchmark for what dining in this city can be when guided by vision and executed without compromise. For residents, it is a source of pride. For visitors, it is a reason to return. Oncore captures the spirit of Sydney with every course, leaving guests with an enduring sense that they have participated in something truly exceptional.
Written By: Mia Quisumbing
Published On: 13th August 2025