We’d forgive you for ignoring hunger pains as you meander harbourside with the intent of catching a glimpse of what makes Sydney, well, Sydney (from the coat hanger to those great white sails).

But when they really kick, Opera Kitchen, just metres from the landmark itself on the lower concourse, is perfect, particularly for the fussy. While it’s got a canteen-like layout, you won’t encounter any soggy chips down here – the food backed by impressive foodies, from highly regarded restaurateurs to expert sushi artists.

So what’s on offer? Kenji fits the bill perfectly if your partial to Japanese fare and while Kenji Nishinakagawa slices and dices sushi and sashimi from behind a 12-seater bar, there’s plenty more outdoor seating on which to enjoy your Salmon Carpaccio or Opera House Roll – and yes, the sea eel wrapped panko prawn is crafted in the shape of the namesake building.

Equally tasty are Miss Chu’s Vietnamese rice paper rolls, duck pancakes or vermicelli salads.  Opening her first tuck-shop in Darlinghurst in 2009, owner Nahji Chu, a Vietnamese refugee, started in catering before delighting us with her now famous signature rolls.

For serious fish, seafood consultant John Susman deals with only the best Australian and New Zealand species at his Cloudy Bay Fish Co outlet with choices ranging from seafood cocktails to cedar plank roasted salmon or grilled fish with house chips.

Meanwhile, famed chef and restaurateur Justin North (of Becasse and Etch) brings Charlie & Co and Becasse Bakery to the Quay. The former offers premium quality classic hamburgers while the bakery does everything from French artisan bread to delectable pastries, cakes and muffins.

With such fine pedigree waiting in the wings, the Opera Kitchen is not to be missed and while you’ll line up with tourists and take a number, the swift transaction only leaves you more time to savour that alluring view (which we think is equally as good as the food in front).

Where: Lower Concourse, Sydney Opera House. Bennelong Point.
Hours: Mon-Sun 7.30 am – Late
Details: operakitchen.com.au