Sydney's
Bar grill · San Diego
About Sydney's
Located in San Diego, Sydney's is a casual eatery within the zoo, offering a variety of grilled favorites, ice cream, and snacks. Enjoy your meal with convenient dine-in or takeout options, and relax in our shaded outdoor patio. We are open seven days a week, with hours from 10:30 AM to 6 PM Monday...
Located in San Diego, Sydney's is a casual eatery within the zoo, offering a variety of grilled favorites, ice cream, and snacks. Enjoy your meal with convenient dine-in or takeout options, and relax in our shaded outdoor patio. We are open seven days a week, with hours from 10:30 AM to 6 PM Monday through Friday, and 10 AM to 6 PM on weekends. We offer lunch and dinner options, and are wheelchair accessible. Sydney's also serves alcohol and beer. We currently have a rating of 2.8/5 based on 68 reviews.
What Customers Say About Sydney's
Sydney's receives mixed reviews. Many enjoy the pulled pork and brisket sandwiches, waffle fries, and outdoor seating. However, complaints include overpriced food, slow service, and inconsistent food quality, with some finding the burgers dry and the veggie burger unappetizing.
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Tip: If you go, be prepared for higher prices due to the location inside the zoo. Consider bringing your own drinks or snacks to save money.
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What to see nearby
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Explore the area around Sydney's
Sydney's is located in San Diego, surrounded by cultural and historical points of interest. Here are some of the most notable places nearby.
Historical Heritage
- California Quadrangle (A 697m) — building in San Diego, United States of America Lugar inscrito en el Registro Nacional de Lugares Históricos
Museums
- Museo de Arte Timken (A 621m) — Museo de Arte (California)
- Museo de Historia Natural de San Diego (A 640m) — museum in San Diego, California
- San Diego History Center (A 670m) — museum in San Diego, California
- Museo del Hombre de San Diego (A 699m) — museo de antropología en los Estados Unidos
- House of Charm (A 709m)
- San Diego Model Railroad Museum (A 717m) — museum and exhibition hall in San Diego, California
Parks & Gardens
- Plaza de Balboa (A 715m) — park in San Diego County, California, United States of America
Other Points of Interest
- Botanical Building (A 545m) — Botanical garden and historic building in San Diego, California, U.S.
- House of Hospitality (A 698m) — Building in San Diego, California, U.S.
Data from Wikidata
Frequently asked questions about Sydney's
Sydney's San Diego Reviews
Good lil spot
Yum.
Comimos el bbq pulled pork sandwich, estaba muy rico. Es de bien tamaño, así que después de medio día caminando por todo el zoológico es una muy buena porción. Va acompañado de papas fritas y un aro de cebolla y ensalada de col. Mi hijo tomó el kids meal con tiras de pollo empanizado, ensalada de col, papas fritas y un pequeño puré de manzana. El kids meal incluye una pequeña bolsita de souvenir y un pequeño vaso con soda. Los precios son elevados, como en todos los parques de California. Recuerda que si compras tu vaso especial, el mismo día que lo compras tú refill será gratis, y si es el vaso regular tu refill te costará $2usd. Y
Bigger portions than we expected and the food tasted great!
They have a nice system to keep orders moving quickly and practicing social distancing guidelines.
We love this place. We have an annual pass and sometimes come to get the food from here and then see the zoo, rather than the other way around. Our favorites are the chicken strip baskets. Also, sauces (bbq/ranch/ketchup) are self serve, so not limited.
Pulled pork sandwich and BBQ brisket burger were delicious. The souvenir bags that came with the kids meal is cute. The kids really enjoyed their food as well. I liked the outdoor seating area with big umbrellas. It was a popular place but still found a great place to sit while my hubs was ordering. If this helps, we were there around 1. I can't say how long we waited because it didn't really bother me with the beautiful view.
Had alot of fun here!! There were alot of shows in different areas of the park!!
Pulled pork sandwich and BBQ brisket burger were delicious. The souvenir bags that came with the kids meal is cute. The kids really enjoyed their food as well. I liked the outdoor seating area with big umbrellas. It was a popular place but still found a great place to sit while my hubs was ordering. If this helps, we were there around 1. I can't say how long we waited because it didn't really bother me with the beautiful view.
Had alot of fun here!! There were alot of shows in different areas of the park!!
Tried the black bean veggie burger with waffle fries, and it was awesome!
While at the San Diego Zoo, figured we’d grab some late lunch. Typically when you have a captive audience, the food is at best serviceable and most times actually shitty, so went in with low expectations. The Oreo sundae was decent, but the pulled pork with waffle fries just blew me away. Extremely soft, melt in the mouth meat and amazing fries. Was right up there in the top 3 meals I had in the us across my 2 week vacation (across San Francisco, San Diego and Seattle.) Would highly recommend visiting if you’re at the zoo and want to grab a bite.
Dined here years ago, and wasn't impressed. But ate here a few weeks ago, and they have upped their game. Portions were large. Family had brisket sandwich, pulled pork sandwich and brisket burrito amongst other things. All were very good, and came with waffle fries...the burrito had waffle fries in it...yum!
While at the San Diego Zoo, figured we’d grab some late lunch. Typically when you have a captive audience, the food is at best serviceable and most times actually shitty, so went in with low expectations. The Oreo sundae was decent, but the pulled pork with waffle fries just blew me away. Extremely soft, melt in the mouth meat and amazing fries. Was right up there in the top 3 meals I had in the us across my 2 week vacation (across San Francisco, San Diego and Seattle.) Would highly recommend visiting if you’re at the zoo and want to grab a bite.
Dined here years ago, and wasn't impressed. But ate here a few weeks ago, and they have upped their game. Portions were large. Family had brisket sandwich, pulled pork sandwich and brisket burrito amongst other things. All were very good, and came with waffle fries...the burrito had waffle fries in it...yum!
Yummy black bean burger
Decent food for a captive audience. The food pricing is reasonable and kids meal was very nice with a reusable tote and cup.
Food was great and their offerings were good for sharing. After an adventure at the zoo, this is a good place to eat. #sydneysgrill #sandiegozoo #restaurant
San Diego California Burrito Rating (30) Still on the hunt for the best California burrito in San Diego. This time I hit my 30th spot, today’s stop was Sydney’s Grill. The burrito: With the California burrito, they also served chips and salsa, which was a nice touch. The fries inside the burrito were really good and felt unique to this place. Another standout here is the mix of flavors from the veggies, which adds a nice balance. They use pork in their California burrito, and it was my first time trying that combo. Honestly, I liked it more than some other meats I’ve had in burritos. You can also choose from a variety of sauces. The burrito costs over $18, which is noticeably higher than the average price around the city. 7 out of 10. Service: Friendly staff who are happy to help. 7 out of 10. Atmosphere: The zoo itself sets the vibe. You’re sitting outside surrounded by greenery, which is pleasant. There’s nothing especially burrito focused or food themed about the atmosphere, but it’s still nice. 7 out of 10.
San Diego California Burrito Rating (30) Still on the hunt for the best California burrito in San Diego. This time I hit my 30th spot, today’s stop was Sydney’s Grill. The burrito: With the California burrito, they also served chips and salsa, which was a nice touch. The fries inside the burrito were really good and felt unique to this place. Another standout here is the mix of flavors from the veggies, which adds a nice balance. They use pork in their California burrito, and it was my first time trying that combo. Honestly, I liked it more than some other meats I’ve had in burritos. You can also choose from a variety of sauces. The burrito costs over $18, which is noticeably higher than the average price around the city. 7 out of 10. Service: Friendly staff who are happy to help. 7 out of 10. Atmosphere: The zoo itself sets the vibe. You’re sitting outside surrounded by greenery, which is pleasant. There’s nothing especially burrito focused or food themed about the atmosphere, but it’s still nice. 7 out of 10.
Mac and cheese kinda mid
Pricey, but ok
Its Zoo cafeteria food, restaurant prices.
Excellent burgers n fries while at the zoo.
Usually quite crowded in the summer, but makes for a nice break in the park. Lots of shade and covered seating. The food is burgers, sandwiches, drinks and shakes. It's expensive, as to be expected. I usually get their year round $1 refill cups, and this is a great place to stop for a few minutes rest to fill up your drink.
Its good, but not too memorable for me to remember the food taste. You got little choices inside the park so when we went here there was quite a line to order.
Had their super cheese burger, it's okay, the burger is quite dry. But after walking around the park for 3 hours I'm glad we stopped by to eat. Kinda pricey but everything is pricey inside the park as expected. Their super burger will definitely satisfy your hungry stomach.
Had their super cheese burger, it's okay, the burger is quite dry. But after walking around the park for 3 hours I'm glad we stopped by to eat. Kinda pricey but everything is pricey inside the park as expected. Their super burger will definitely satisfy your hungry stomach.
The food was great but the missing two stars are for the soft serve ice cream that ridiculously melted fast. It looks like it was rushed. Especially for a $10+ unit price.
The black bean burger was OKAY. Expensive prices as expected at the zoo. I would recommend bringing your own food (it’s allowed) or at least your own drink! I will next time :)
Stars are for the french fries and views of giraffes, rhinos and koalas from the back dining area. Good spot for a back pack snack stop during the summer night or event trampoline show. Nice for larger groups as tables are big. Lesser trafficked restrooms are at back. Outside of a sipper refill and the fries, food is not a good value here.
The food was great but the missing two stars are for the soft serve ice cream that ridiculously melted fast. It looks like it was rushed. Especially for a $10+ unit price.
The black bean burger was OKAY. Expensive prices as expected at the zoo. I would recommend bringing your own food (it’s allowed) or at least your own drink! I will next time :)
Stars are for the french fries and views of giraffes, rhinos and koalas from the back dining area. Good spot for a back pack snack stop during the summer night or event trampoline show. Nice for larger groups as tables are big. Lesser trafficked restrooms are at back. Outside of a sipper refill and the fries, food is not a good value here.
Your average fast food with Illogical designed long process line.
I did not like it. not cheap , not tasteful:(
The place is clean, the staff are friendly, lots of seating and the line seemed to move at a good pace. The price point for the food very inflated. The food is edible but not good. Honestly, I didn't even eat all of mine and that is uncommon for me. Maybe next time I will pack a lunch instead of spending $50 on lunch for a family of 4 that didn't even like their food.
A little too pricey for the food ordered here. Hence, most of the food at the Zoo is not the best, but there are better options than this place. Probably will not be eating here again.
Watch out for their deceptive practices on the drinks. I ordered the regular soda and they gave me the $10 one instead. When I clarified at the register it was the expensive one they basically offered to toss the heavy plastic and exchange for the one I ordered. So much for conservation.
Watch out for their deceptive practices on the drinks. I ordered the regular soda and they gave me the $10 one instead. When I clarified at the register it was the expensive one they basically offered to toss the heavy plastic and exchange for the one I ordered. So much for conservation.
The food is decent enough, but just average. The service is terrible. We ordered one adult basket and two kids meals. They did not give us the souvenir bags for the kids meals, which also come with applesauce and crackers. They did not give us the kids drinks, and seemed to intentionally confuse us into ordering regular drinks (for additional costs). We had to follow up to get what we paid for. It was obvious we were not the only customers having issues.
This place is just as overpriced as every other place in the zoo, but that's to be expected in an amusement attraction so it is what it is. The food, however, is pretty bad. The burgers are dry and luke warm. The grilled chicken sandwich is even worse. The fries taste microwaved. As long as your expectations are properly calibrated, you'll leave lunch only mostly disappointed!
The food is decent enough, but just average. The service is terrible. We ordered one adult basket and two kids meals. They did not give us the souvenir bags for the kids meals, which also come with applesauce and crackers. They did not give us the kids drinks, and seemed to intentionally confuse us into ordering regular drinks (for additional costs). We had to follow up to get what we paid for. It was obvious we were not the only customers having issues.
This place is just as overpriced as every other place in the zoo, but that's to be expected in an amusement attraction so it is what it is. The food, however, is pretty bad. The burgers are dry and luke warm. The grilled chicken sandwich is even worse. The fries taste microwaved. As long as your expectations are properly calibrated, you'll leave lunch only mostly disappointed!
The chicken sandwich was gross. The chicken was super dry and tasteless.
they mess up the orders, the food is cold, and to top it off they take forever
Awful
Overpriced junk food
Over priced
They are all talking no one is doing anything. Its past their open time and managers have an i dont care attitude.
Comida sofrível, não vale o que se paga. Os atendentes não são legais, o layout interno é todo confuso pra fazer e pegar pedido. Restaurante péssimo. Não recomendo.
San Diego Zoo five stars. Sydney's Grill Zero stars.
Way to expensive for the taste. You can get better tasting food on the dallor menu
The food, while it tasted good, was viciously overpriced. Not to mention, the workers forgot one of our meals and after that we had to go back to request our sides. Honestly? Save your money and wait until you’re home to eat.
Sadly most food in the park is sub par and this place is no exception. In addition to its lackluster menu, if you pick a pre-made salad or sandwich from the refrigerated section, but still want to order a drink you have to wait in line behind everyone waiting for their hot food to be delivered. There is no way around them, and the workers are trained to go in order.
Categorically the worst coffee I have ever had in my life. No amount of creamer or sugar could save my tastebuds from the bitter, liquidy hell that was masquerading as coffee. Hot chips were ok.
Took 25 minutes to get 2 burgers and a chicken sandwich. That was after waiting 15 minutes to order. Food was not great either. Would look for other options in the zoo first
It was terrible food. from which I got a burn and it was very not good, and very expensive, like in good restaurants. This place is not worth it. I don't recommend getting close at all
No options for people with dairy allergies. Do you realize this means we cant have lunch here? Duh!
Awful experience . Overpriced . Ordered veggie burger , and the patty is so cold and chewy, feels like frozen one. Ordered Potato Fries with chicken in it , finally ended up getting beans with some meat in it .
Awful experience . Overpriced . Ordered veggie burger , and the patty is so cold and chewy, feels like frozen one. Ordered Potato Fries with chicken in it , finally ended up getting beans with some meat in it .
Sydney’s Grill: A Soul Crushing Abyss of Mediocrity where the only thing cooked to perfection is your disappointment. Be prepared to stand in line for 45 minutes to pay for an overpriced tragedy of a meal that’s unfit to serve to even the zoo animals. Once you complete your order the staff will take 15 minutes to throw frozen food on a bun and then they will forget to ring your buzzer to let you know it’s done. After the staff gets finished serving you your wasteland chow you’ll have a new appreciation for microwaved meals and Chef Boyardee.
Absolutely the most disgusting veggie burger I've ever had...flavorless & sloppy. Fries are pretty hard to mess up but they managed to make the worst fries ever! Nachos with cheese... ZERO flavor. It's like they poured melted plastic on salted cardboard. Total & utter disappointment! Especially after standing in line for over 30 minutes... you have been warned!
The cafe enforced a policy prohibiting the use of umbrellas while it was raining. This restriction was unexpected and inconvenient, particularly during inclement weather. Due to this inflexible rule, my experience was unsatisfactory. I regret my visit and rate the cafe one star.
This place is legit terrible. Never eat here, regardless of how many kids you are watching. The lines are long and the food is horrible. Obviously it's overpriced because it's in the zoo, but that's not a problem since presumably the money goes to the animals. Ordered a spicy chicken sandwich which I immediately dubbed the "scammich" because it was a frozen circle chicken patty with a ton of sauce slathered between two buns. Tastes bad and feels worse. Would feel better just straight up donating $20 to the zoo instead of getting this abomination. Fish and chips are bad but at least you get a lot of fish (with bad aftertaste). Fries suck. Onion rings are okay, but if you have food as bad as the other stuff then I guess anything close to mediocre is like salvation.
Best restaurant in the park. There is no other place where you can both lose your money and time in a more entertaining manner. Cold food, bought in desserts, and broken buzzers. As long as I live I’ll never forget the memories I’ve made at sandies slop house or wtv. Enjoy everyone
Food was basically frozen food that's deep fried. The service was the issue here. The worker that was doing drinks was rude to me and my wife. Spilled soda on her hand. I don't recommend this place but the manager Manny took care of us after this. Great manger 👏
The cafe enforced a policy prohibiting the use of umbrellas while it was raining. This restriction was unexpected and inconvenient, particularly during inclement weather. Due to this inflexible rule, my experience was unsatisfactory. I regret my visit and rate the cafe one star.
Best restaurant in the park. There is no other place where you can both lose your money and time in a more entertaining manner. Cold food, bought in desserts, and broken buzzers. As long as I live I’ll never forget the memories I’ve made at sandies slop house or wtv. Enjoy everyone
Sydney’s Grill: A Soul Crushing Abyss of Mediocrity where the only thing cooked to perfection is your disappointment. Be prepared to stand in line for 45 minutes to pay for an overpriced tragedy of a meal that’s unfit to serve to even the zoo animals. Once you complete your order the staff will take 15 minutes to throw frozen food on a bun and then they will forget to ring your buzzer to let you know it’s done. After the staff gets finished serving you your wasteland chow you’ll have a new appreciation for microwaved meals and Chef Boyardee.
Food was basically frozen food that's deep fried. The service was the issue here. The worker that was doing drinks was rude to me and my wife. Spilled soda on her hand. I don't recommend this place but the manager Manny took care of us after this. Great manger 👏
Absolutely the most disgusting veggie burger I've ever had...flavorless & sloppy. Fries are pretty hard to mess up but they managed to make the worst fries ever! Nachos with cheese... ZERO flavor. It's like they poured melted plastic on salted cardboard. Total & utter disappointment! Especially after standing in line for over 30 minutes... you have been warned!
This place is legit terrible. Never eat here, regardless of how many kids you are watching. The lines are long and the food is horrible. Obviously it's overpriced because it's in the zoo, but that's not a problem since presumably the money goes to the animals. Ordered a spicy chicken sandwich which I immediately dubbed the "scammich" because it was a frozen circle chicken patty with a ton of sauce slathered between two buns. Tastes bad and feels worse. Would feel better just straight up donating $20 to the zoo instead of getting this abomination. Fish and chips are bad but at least you get a lot of fish (with bad aftertaste). Fries suck. Onion rings are okay, but if you have food as bad as the other stuff then I guess anything close to mediocre is like salvation.
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2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
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