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Clarence and V

Tiny space. Huge flavours. A cure for what ails you.

Alexandra Carlton |
Clarence and V
Open morning to night, Clarence and V's unpretentious approach extends from the interiors into the dishes, with comfort and flavour the diner's primary currency.

You probably don't have a ton of reasons to walk down the stretch of Clarence Street between King and Market Streets during the day unless you happen to work in the refurbished heritage Substation No. 164 offices, or you're visiting Thai Royal Massage ("Sydney's best!").[[You've probably been there at night, though: some of the city's best bars, including the Baxter Inn, Old Mate's Place and the new Herbs Taverne, share the same stretch of Clarence Street.]] You have an excellent reason now: a diminutive, home-style, all-day diner called Clarence and V.

Clarence and V is unlike any restaurant in Sydney – at least not any in the CBD. It's squishy. The tiled floors feel more vintage milkbar than restaurant (though those pricey German Thonet chairs and Art Luce sconces aren't to be sniffed at). The wine glasses are stout and practical. The visible kitchen is functional, rather than a design focal point. The unfussy plates will never go viral on TikTok.

But it has some of the most delicious food you will find anywhere.