Touch Wood: Sydney Fish Market’s New All-Day Dining Destination
Touch Wood, a waterfront brunch and all-day-dining venue has just opened in the $836 million new Sydney Fish Market.
Located on the only north-facing corner terrace of the new Fish Market, the sun-drenched 300-square-metre venue transforms traditional Australian breakfast culture by showcasing premium local seafood and artisan producers in an elegant harbourside setting.
Once you step inside, you’re greeted by an interior rich with native Australian florals and warm timber finishes. Design choices by Kong Design, including a striking flora mural, draw directly from the Australian landscape and complement the venue’s open, relaxed feel.
Touch Wood is the creation of hospitality veteran Tyson Rowsell, known for co-founding the beloved neighbourhood cafés Dirty Red in Glebe and Rozelle, and for his time as Group General Manager at The Grounds of Alexandria.
The kitchen is led by Head Chef Courtney Blyde, whose 15+ years in top Sydney venues have shaped a distinct culinary voice grounded in clean, seasonal flavours and refined simplicity. Blyde brings experience from Baba’s Place, Canva, The Apollo, and Cho Cho San.
The menu reflects his Samoan roots and upbringing in New Zealand through seafood-forward dishes that emphasise brightness, acidity and restraint. With a focus on reimagined Australian brunch classics that elevate seafood to the forefront, diners can enjoy signature dishes such as Crab & XO Butter Crumpets, showcasing the market’s fresh catch in breakfast form.
There’s also the Fish Chowder Pie, which transforms traditional Aussie fare into a seafood celebration; and the delicious Market Day Plate with oysters, king prawns, smoked fish paté, pickles and lemon cream with sourdough and cultured butter, which showcases the kitchen’s commitment to seasonal, premium local produce.
Other highlights include the outstanding Lobster & Mushroom Poutine with pan fried lobster, oyster mushrooms, breadcrumbs with bisque gravy, cheese curd and fries; the delicious Fish Burger with house made fish patty, iceberg lettuce, fried egg, cheese, tartare sauce on soft potato bun; and the crowd-pleasing Garlic Prawn Spaghetti, with creamy garlic king prawns, preserved lemon, shell oil and gremolata. Creamy, indulgent and totally mouth-watering!
Coffee is another key pillar of the experience. Industry expert Paul Cabezas-Heathwood leads the program, bringing over 20 years of experience, including roles at The Grounds of the City, Veneziano Coffee Roasters, and Dirty Red. At Touch Wood, he curates what he calls an “immersive coffee adventure,” with rotating selections from Sydney’s best boutique roasters, experimental brew methods, and a focus on connecting guests with the stories behind each cup.
Whether it’s a classic espresso, filtered or an iced coffee, Touch Wood has you covered. Other drink options include teas, sodas, smoothies as well as refreshing cold press juices to brighten your day. For something stronger, there are plenty of cocktails, wines, beers and ciders to explore.
The venue maintains a family-friendly atmosphere with dedicated children’s menus, suitable seating, and planned activities during school holidays. Touch Wood is fully accessible, positioned next to the car park lifts with ample space around tables for wheelchair access.
Touch Wood is a great addition to the new Sydney Fish Market. With seating for 150 diners, with 100 north-facing outdoor seats that capture harbour views and all-day sun, it’s the only venue in the precinct to enjoy such a prime position.
With food that’s full of flavour, staff that are prompt and friendly and the venue’s perfect position, Touch Wood is a must-visit on your next trip to the new Sydney Fish Market.
Touch Wood
A2/1B Bridge Road, Glebe
Open Monday to Sunday from 7am
https://touchwoodsydney.com.au/