Fancy getting your teeth into some Australian culture - literally? Kangaroo meat is a widely consumed food in Australia, and Sydney serves up some of the best variations on this cultural dish.
Sure, kangaroos are cute, but they’re also delicious, and hunting them is strictly done to manage their populations, otherwise they risk becoming a major pest. Kangaroo meat has been increasing in popularity due to its low-fat content and low cost compared with other meats, and certainly makes for a ticked box when experiencing the country’s cuisine.
Whether you’re after a healthy meal, or a less-than-healthy pizza or burger, hop on over to one of these places to get your roo fix.
Blackbird Cafe
For a healthy and well-balanced meal (a rarity when backpacking, I know, but also a necessity), head to this very popular restaurant for their char-grilled kangaroo with jack daniel sauce, steamed vegetables, and a spectacular view over stunning Darling Harbour.
Where: Balcony Level, Cockle Bay Wharf, Darling Harbour
The Australian Heritage Hotel
Established in 1824, the Australian Heritage Hotel lays claim to being the oldest continuously licensed pub in Sydney, and has long been a staple drinking hole for the locals. Packed with true-blue Aussie charm, the hotel’s restaurant serves up a mouth-watering pepper kangaroo pizza, alongside a selection of over 100 Australian beers to help wash it down.
Where: 100 Cumberland St, The Rocks
Moo Gourmet Burgers
For a burger with a twist, head to Bondi Beach to grab a 100% kangaroo meat patty gourmet burger. Moo Gourmet Burgers serves up enormously-sized meals, complete with chips, milkshakes and desserts, so drop in to get some bang for your buck, as well as possibly the coolest hangover meal you’ll ever have.
Where: 70A Campbell Parade, Bondi Beach
Manly Grill
If you’re headed north of the bridge, Manly Grill serves up a juicy grilled kangaroo fillet. The restaurant directly faces Manly’s beautiful beach, so get your al fresco on and grab one of their outdoor tables for a great view and a filling post-swim meal.
Where: 30 South Steyne, Manly
Oz Turk’s Pizza & Kebabs
Still got hesitations about eating a national icon? Go out in the CBD for a night, abuse the hell out of the numerous bars that illuminate Sydney’s centre, get so drunk that by 2am you’re thinking eating some kangaroo would actually be a pretty cool idea after all, and come here. Yes, it’s a kebab shop, but it’s clean, it’s always open, and it serves up a pretty decent kangaroo kebab. However, just a warning: as with any kebab, only consume when inebriated.
Where: 704 George St, Sydney