Din Tai Fung World Square gets attention for xiaolongbao $15.95/10 pieces but basement food courts are real gems.

Market City food court has incredible Vietnamese pho at reasonable prices, Malaysian laksa stalls are legit. Sussex Centre more local, less touristy — Hong Kong-style cafes for milk tea, pineapple buns.

Go lunch to avoid Din Tai Fung dinner queues. Walk from Town Hall or light rail from Circular Quay via routes like 501.