Yama @ QVB, Sydney

Tucked on the second floor at the northern end of the Queen Victoria Building, Yama offers a serene pause above the Sydney CBD bustle. Sunlight drifts through stained-glass windows and high glass ceilings, sketching gentle patterns across an open, calming space. It is a Japanese café at heart, with an extensive range of teas and coffees and an easy sense of poise.

The kitchen leans into clarity and craft: pristine sashimi arranged over delicate glass angel noodles; a flutter of tempura that shatters at first bite; green-tea soba threaded through greens and avocado; smoked salmon brightened with tomatoes and a balsamic lift. Flavours are clean, umami-led and refreshingly balanced, delivering comfort without weight.

For something heartier, the teppan brings its reassuring sizzle: a yakiniku burger glossed with teriyaki and a side of chips; a salmon steak on a bed of mash with vegetables; noodles tossed hot with Black Angus beef or set afloat with mixed seafood in soothing broth. There are cool rituals too, with zaru soba and the easy satisfaction of donburi, from grilled eel to colourful sashimi over rice.

Whether pausing between shops or settling in for a lingering view, Yama rewards unhurried appetites. Head up to the second floor, take a seat by the light, and let the city’s hum fade to a satisfied murmur.