Where is the best place to stay in SYD?

DH and I are planning a weekend getaway at the end of November to celebrate our birthdays in SYD.

I've only stayed at the Radisson Plaza in the city/circular quay for work and it's nice.

Which part of SYD is closest to the best bars and nicest restaurants?

Where could we go during the day?

We like animals and parks, so i was thinking Taronga zoo and the underground aquarium place for one of the days.

What about day 2?

TIA.

Darling Harbor is quite a nice place to stay, we were there recently and it is often where we stay when heading to Sydney (I have a lot of family there). It is near the casino as well as lots of bars, restaurant and clubs. The Aquarium and Power House Museum are also right there as well as China Town, Paddy's Market and heaps of strip shopping with small malls.

Hope you have a fun trip away!