Classic Comfort Food Dishes around the World - Where to Find Authentic Versions in Sydney

By Marie-Antoinette Issa.

Carby, creamy or just cosily nostalgic, some dishes speak a universal language. The kind that can transport almost anyone back to simpler times, deliver cherished memories or offer solace with every bite. 

In search of recapturing this warmth for foodies from all walks of life, we compiled these picks of the best comfort foods from around the globe and where to find their authentic renditions right here in Sydney.

President Thomas Jefferson can take credit for helping lay the foundation of the Great American Dream. But, for foodies, his greatest contribution to the culture of the USA was probably the popularisation of mac and cheese. As created by his chef James Hemings. In the centuries since this hearty pasta dish has captured the hearts of millions with its indulgent combo of carby and creamy. Traditionally made with elbow macaroni and a blend of cheeses, it's a popular Thanksgiving side and a quintessential comfort food any time of year.

 

Find it at Woodcut Steakhouse - diners hungry for a sophisticated spin on this soul food favourite should head to Woodcut, where Chef and owner Ross Lusted draws inspiration from childhood memories to create a comforting yet elevated version of mac and cheese. 

Roasted in a wood oven until crispy and finished with a sauce of taleggio, it's served in a cast iron skillet with aged pancetta to offer a classy twist on this classic comfort dish.

We can’t confirm with certainty, that Madonna was referring to tubes of ricotta-stuffed cannelloni when she infamously donned an ‘Italians Do It Better’ T-shirt in her 1986 music video for ‘Papa Don’t Preach’.

However, it is a very real possibility! After all, when it comes to top-tier exports from the land of the Azzurri, homemade pasta jostles with pizza for prime position. A labour of love that has been perfected by generations of Nonnas before being introduced to kitchens across the world. Whether it's a simple spaghetti with marinara sauce or a rich and decadent fettuccine Alfredo, the freshness of homemade pasta is proof that Madonna was right to wear her heart (or her appetite) on her sleeve!

 

Find it at Machiavelli: Machiavelli Restaurant is a Sydney institution and Chef Domenico Stefanelli finds profound comfort in the simplicity of wheat and flour - ingredients that transport him back to the serene wheat fields of Italy and evoke deep traditions and cherished memories.

At Machiavelli, this nostalgic connection is beautifully expressed through Domenico’s culinary creations, where his passion for handmade pasta and rich, flavourful sauces made from fresh tomatoes, cheese and herbs takes centre stage. Each dish is a tribute to Italian culinary heritage, meticulously crafted to infuse warmth and the comforting essence of home.

Known by locals as ‘jeongol’ or ‘jjigae’, Korean hot pot holds a special place as a comfort food for several reasons deeply ingrained in the country’s culture and culinary tradition. Firstly, the communal aspect fosters a sense of togetherness and warmth, as meals are seen as a time for bonding and sharing stories with loved ones. Gathering around a steaming pot of bubbling broth creates a cosy atmosphere conducive to connection.

The customisable nature of Korean hot pot also allows individuals to tailor the meal to their preferences, adding ingredients that evoke feelings of familiarity and nostalgia. Additionally, the nourishing nature of Korean hot pot makes it an ideal comfort food, offering a hearty broth filled with vegetables, meat and seafood, providing both satisfaction and essential nutrients.

 

Finally, the warmth of the hot pot itself, both in temperature and sensation, contributes to its comforting qualities, with the steam rising, sizzle of ingredients, and comforting aroma enhancing the overall experience.

Find it at Arisun: With a communal atmosphere, Arisun, allows diners to share in the warmth and tradition of Korean cuisine, particularly when they order the spam kimchi and pork belly hot pot. A little bit savoury, a little bit saucy and very, very soothing, this hearty hot pot could challenge K-Pop for the title of Korea’s best export.

A comforting combination that's popular across the globe, soup and toasties offer simplicity and satisfaction in every spoonful (and bite). Whether it's a classic tomato soup paired with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich or a hearty vegetable soup with a side of crusty bread, it's a comfort food duo that’s as timeless as Batman and Robin - or, should that be Soup-erman and Lois Lane?

 

Find it at Cupan Caife: This cute cafe in the Rocks (nestled within the Frank Macs Irish cocktail bar) is the perfect pitstop to pair mouth-watering handcrafted toasties - like a retro cheese and ham sandwich or a sophisticated Cajun chicken on sourdough - with a bowl of comforting soup. It’s an iconic duo that offers a cosy and satisfying experience perfect for colder Sydney months and sure to warm your taste buds and your soul.

Before she was a red carpet regular, those of us of a certain age may remember Naomi Watts as a small-screen star. One, who infamously turned down a dinner with Tom Cruise in a TV commercial for a Sunday roast. While it may shock some, fans of this cherished tradition will not be surprised. That’s because a Sunday roast is not just a meal, but an embodiment of comfort in every bite.

For many, the aroma of a leg of lamb or chook cooking in the oven evokes nostalgic memories of family gatherings on long Sunday afternoons - a time-honoured ritual that brings loved ones together over a hearty feast of roasted meat, potatoes, vegetables and rich gravy. Even, if it means cancelling dinner with a Top Gun star!

 

Find it at Pumphouse Sydney: For a leave-it-to-the-experts version of this meal. head to Pumphouse Sydney, where every Sunday you can tuck into the Chef's roast of the day, accompanied by a medley of vegetables and Yorkshire pudding, plus a drink. It’s a wholesome, hearty dining experience, minus anyone slaving over the kitchen oven!

With its steaming broth, chewy noodles and unami toppings, ramen is more than just a soup. It’s the embodiment of komorebi - the Japanese concept of comfort and peace. Originating from the Land of the Rising Sun, but beloved worldwide, ramen has transcended its humble beginnings to become a symbol of comfort and satisfaction.

Whether it's the rich and creamy tonkotsu broth, or the act of slurping noodles and savouring each component in a mindful ritual, a good ramen can offer a moment of respite from the stresses of daily life.

 

Find it at Torotoro Ramen Bar: Indulge in the rich and savoury flavours of tonkotsu ramen at Torotoro Ramen Bar. The Torotoro special offers extra pork charshu, shallot, nori, seasoned egg, menma, black fungus, black garlic oil and house-made chilli miso, providing the ultimate comfort in a bowl.

While we’ll save the debate about which Asian country makes the best curry for another post, there’s no denying that Thailand would sit comfortably towards the top.  Warm, flavourful and rich in spice, a bowl of Bangkok-inspired curry (complemented by a suitable carby side of rice) suggests that the cuisine of the ‘Land of Smiles’ is just as responsible as its beautiful beaches for making visitors happy. 

Find it at The Woollahra Hotel: Rich in tradition and history (it's been an Eastern Suburbs staple since the 1930s) the iconic Woollahra Hotel provides an upmarket pub experience, with a unique and elevated food offering. Including a surprisingly good and authentic curry by Chef Jordan Muhamad (ex-Rockpool, Spice Temple and Chin Chin).

 

Bonus: Make your booking for Thursday night, when the hotel hosts a curry night special, where diners can choose from a Thai green chicken, beef massaman, hiramasa kingfish, prawn and pumpkin tofu made from scratch and served with rice and a complimentary house beer or wine of your choice.