Australia is famous for its sparkling white sand beaches, lush national parks and untamed landscapes but did you know it’s also home to one of the largest seafood markets in the world? We’re talking about the iconic Sydney Fish Market which has long been the primary spot to peruse for the freshest seafood in town. Visitors will also find an abundance of takeaway meals, fun little souvenirs, dedicated stalls selling fruit and veg, bakeries, wine shops and even a seafood school. It’s the largest market of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere and you won’t find a more diverse variety of fish elsewhere with the exception of Japan. Seafood is also delivered to the market daily so you can expect to take the freshest fare home.
Sydney Fish Market
From occasional pop-ups, to year-round markets and harbourside bazaars, Sydney is full to the brim with vibrant shopping spots. The Sydney Fish Market remains a staple on the scene and it’s a must-visit if you’re a fan of seafood. Often regarded as Australia’s Home of Seafood, the market was established in 1945 and is today the third-largest seafood market in the world.
It’s perched on the Blackwattle Bay foreshore in Pyrmont and shoppers can get their hands on a variety of locally sourced and sustainably caught seafood including oysters, salmon, Tasmanian scallops, snapper fillets, Moreton bay bugs, barramundi and a lot more. Find the full list of retails here.
There are also plenty of hot food options at the venue if you want to take a break from your shopping and grab a bite to eat. Popular dishes include the famous sushi tacos filled with fresh sashimi, micro herbs and sushi rice, lobster rolls, octopus skewers, toasties, burgers and poke bowls. There’s also a bakery on site, Gregory’s Bread, where you can get your fill of sweet treats, fresh bread and good coffee. The market is open 7 days a week from 7am to 4pm except on Christmas Day.
What is the best time to visit the Sydney Fish Market?
If you’re planning a visit, head there early to get ahead of the crowds and make sure you wear comfortable shoes because there’s a lot of ground to cover. The markets are great fun all year round, but planning a trip during the festive period is highly recommended especially for the 36-Hour Seafood Marathon where retailers open their doors to the public for 36 hours straight.
Sydney Fish Market tours
The sprawling space can be overwhelming to navigate and if you don’t know where to start, the market hosts behind-the-scenes guided tours where you can learn everything about new species of seafood oyster shucking and more. Head here to book a spot.
Head to the official Sydney Fish Market for more information including new grocers, recipes and retailers.