CHINATOWN. Looking for Cantonese cuisine in a casual setting? This is the place for you. BBQ King's menu features dishes like crispy Peking duck and barbecue pork. Expect quick service and a fun, energetic clientele ­ students, tourists, the Chinese community, and some of Sydney's finest chefs frequent this locale. Be sure to ask for the complimentary house soup, served only on request. TRAIN: to Central Station and a short walk from there. MONORAIL: to Haymarket.

INNER CITY. This happening restaurant, owned by Kylie Kwong and Bill Grainger of "bills" restaurant, offers some of Sydney's best modern Cantonese cuisine. Chef Kwong cooks up creative dishes like crispy duck with mandarin sauce and steamed prawn wontons with black vinegar. The small interior with stools at low tables resembles a Chinese tea house and attracts a yuppy crowd. Vegetarian dishes are available. BUS: 301-303 from Castlereagh Street (near corner Market Street).

NORTH SYDNEY. Featuring a basement setting, this Sri Lankan restaurant offers such dishes as red duck curry and deep fried snapper with lime chili. On Fridays, enjoy live jazz amid dark blue walls and colorful murals. A family atmosphere reigns on weeknights; a younger crowd is more prominent on weekends. A great place to converse with friends and family over an authentic Sri Lankan meal. If you want to stay in, they also offer take-out. Smart casual attire and reservations suggested. TRAIN: to St. Leonards, or BUS: from Wynard along the Pacific Highway.

NORTH SHORE. This restaurant is always hopping with a loyal crowd of local professionals. The interior is modern, with deep chocolate brown walls and black-and-chrome chairs. Sit at the laminated tables while you watch the chef make Vietnamese spring rolls or the specialty dish ­ Thai kaffir lime chicken. There is also a prix fixe menu. Friday-Saturday lunch reservations are essential. BUS: from Wynard Station to Cremorne.

INNER CITY. Jellyfish salad. Stir-fried sweet corn and pine nuts. Handmade wheat noodles. These are just a few of the dishes you can try at this popular Asian restaurant. Affordably priced, Chinese Noodle Restaurant is popular with students and Chinese families from the area. Be sure to check out the open kitchen where you can watch the traditional noodle maker at work. TRAIN: short walk from Central Station.