Darling Square

Just a 15-minute walk from Hotel Woolstore 1888, Darling Square is where Sydney’s creative energy spills out into the streets. It’s a little bit of everything — cobblestone laneways, bold eateries, next-gen retail and plenty of places to pause.

This is a precinct that’s still discovering itself, in all the right ways. From early morning coffee spots to late-night ramen bars, there’s something happening around every corner — you just have to wander.

Steam Mill Lane

Buzzy bites and tucked-away favourites

Steam Mill Lane is Darling Square’s food hub — a one-block feast where casual eats meet after-dark flavour. Grab a bao and a bubble tea, try fresh salads at Fishbowl, or settle in at Nakano Darling for late-night izakaya and sake until 2am.

This strip packs a lot in. Whether you’re chasing quick bites, cult snacks or something more adventurous, Steam Mill delivers with energy to spare.

Little Hay Street

Sweet treats and cultural eats

Just around the corner, Little Hay Street fuses the spirit of Chinatown with the buzz of Darling Square. It’s where you’ll find locals lining up for Marrickville Pork Rolls, scooping gelato at Messina, or sipping lychee tea at Bengong Black.

Got a sweet tooth? Shortstop’s artisanal donuts are a must. And if you’re after something stronger, the precinct’s hidden bars and casual lounges offer plenty of options before heading back to Hotel Woolstore.

The Exchange

Design-forward and full of surprises

At the centre of Darling Square sits The Exchange — a spiralling timber structure designed by Kengo Kuma that’s as photogenic as it is functional. Inside, you’ll find:

• A light-filled City of Sydney Library
• A rooftop with sweeping skyline views
• A ground-floor food hall for casual dining, day or night
• XOPP by Golden Century, a modern Cantonese favourite from the team behind the iconic institution

It’s the kind of place that surprises you, even when you think you’ve seen it all.

Discover more, your way

Darling Square isn’t just a stop along the way — it’s a pocket of Sydney worth lingering in. Just a 15-minute stroll or a breezy 7-minute drive from The Woolstore 1888, this urban playground invites you to explore cobblestone laneways, buzzy food halls, and late-night bites.

Image Credit: Lendlease Corporation, Darling Square