My Favourite Restaurants

27.03.15

Eating out is one of my greatest pleasures.

But, as in any service industry, there are varying degrees of quality. There are over 12,000 restaurants in Sydney so you’re certain to come across the best, and dare I say, the worst. A good restaurant cannot only elevate a suburb’s popularity, but can create a niche market for likeminded businesses. But what makes a good restaurant? There are a number of factors that need to be in the right balance to create a good eatery. And, it must have the ‘X’ factor – that certain je ne sais quoi that make you want to return before you’ve eaten that last mouthful of dessert.

 

 Mr Wong (Photo source thesocietyinc.com.au)

 

We all have different tastes

Sydneysiders are spoilt for wonderful produce. Team this with world-class, inventive chefs and the end result can be truly magic. There was a time, not too long ago, that food took a weird twist. It was all about ‘fusion’ and ‘gastronomic experiences’. It was a trend that left you unsure whether you just ate a contemporary art installation or an amuse-bouche. Luckily, chefs have turned their noses up at this and are now focusing on fresh, local, seasonal produce.

 

Kepos Street Kitchen (Photo source dailytelegraph.com.au)

 

So you make great food, but is that all?

Service is as important to me as what goes in my mouth, so if your staff is rude, indifferent or unknowledgeable, I won’t be wasting my tastebuds in your establishment, not matter HOW great the food is. Being greeted on arrival is a must. Extra points if the staff remember your name and accommodate your seating preferences. Nothing says, ‘we appreciate your business’ than being given that attention to detail. Staff who care will know the right balance between attentiveness and being smothering!

Food knowledge is vital. Staff should easily recommend meals, explain portions and stop you if you’ve ordered too much.

Good manners will always leave a delicious taste in a diner’s mouth.

 

Popolo (Photo source au.timeout.com)

 

I need a back to my chair

Unless I’m seated at a bar for a quick cocktail, stools are a definite no-no. If seating is uncomfortable, I will not enjoy my meal. Backless chairs and wooden benches without cushions are telltale signs that the restaurant’s priority is fast turn over. For a quick refuelling meal, this is okay, but not for a nice dinner out with family, friends or a loved one.

 

Acme (Photo source luchettikrelle.com)

 

Would you like a view with your soup?

Again, Sydneysiders are spoilt for breathtaking views of the Harbour, Opera House, beaches and more. And, many restaurants use this to their advantage. But if you aren’t sitting enjoying a 180-degree picturesque view, the internal décor can be just as good. When you walk into a restaurant, the ambience sets the mood. This ‘wow’ factor can be a combination of art, furnishings and table settings and can dramatically increase your positive experience. Similarly, if the décor is gaudy, the music too loud or the linen not pristine, then even the best meal of your life cannot make your meal an enjoyable experience.

 

Bon Appétit!

 

Hotel Centennial (Photo source hotelcentennial.com.au)

 

Some of my favourite restaurants include:

Lucio’s (amazing artwork)

Ester (Chippendale 2014 best new restaurant)

Mr Wong

Acme

Hotel Centennial

Popolo

Kepos Street Kitchen

Big Mama’s

Ms G’s

Vamps

The Step-by-Step Guide to Moving House

25.03.15

Moving soon and don’t know where to start? Here’s a guide to help you get organised and make the transition as smooth as possible.

Styling for Easter

20.03.15

It seems we just packed away the Christmas tree and baubles and it’s nearly time to welcome the Easter Bunny into our homes. That floppy-eared bearer of chocolate goodness will be bouncing around hiding eggs only to be found by squealing children (of all ages)!

Sure, the clichéd images are cute, but is there a more elegant way to style home this holiday period? Family and friends will be popping in for a meal or a few drinks and dressing your house is an important and thoughtful gesture in festive times.

Easter time is synonymous with a few main themes: eggs/chickens, chocolate, bunnies and of course religion. You don’t need to incorporate all these, but a few elements from each (or one) can create a wonderful and colourful feel to your home.

Just hatched

The Easter theme of eggs (and chickens) symbolises rebirth and new life. In many cultures dyeing and hand painting eggs is an annual tradition, one the whole family gets involved in. You can hang hand-decorated eggs around your home, just remember to stick with a colour theme. Food dyes, ribbons, glitter and spray paint can produce tasteful and unique ornaments.

 

Cocoa-delight

There’s no escaping that irresistible, creamy yumminess of chocolate at Easter time, so don’t even try. But, I have one rule: quality versus quantity. If you are a whizz in the kitchen, making your own chocolate eggs is a wonderful way to customise gifts for your family and friends. Or how about make an egg shaped cake or dessert (there are so many scrumptious ideas on Pinterest)? You could also go all out and have a chocolate fondue! Marshmallow shaped eggs or pieces of fruit (grapes, strawberries) on skewers enrobed in molten chocolate… delicious!

The hunt is on

If you have young children or will have children over for Easter, nothing beats an egg hunt to bring joy to their little faces. A lovely idea is to create talcum-powder ‘bunny-footprints’ for the kids to follow. Cheap, easy to clean up and no lasting damage to your floors!

And, the kids will need something to carry their goodies in, how about bunny shaped baskets to continue the theme?

 

Incense and candles

Now, you don’t have to decorate your house like a church, but if you are religiously inclined, you can add a reverent touch to your home. I am personally a candle lover and Easter time is no exception. Candles are always alight adding warmth, comfort and sensory appeal to my home.

Enjoy your Easter long weekend and remember, if you crack your chocolate eggs first before eating, all the calories fall out!

All images sourced from Pinterest

Village Markets

06.03.15

Village markets have always been a meeting hub for a community, catching up with friends, meeting new faces and picking up a few treats. More and more, village markets are popping up, more regularly and of higher quality. It’s a great way to spend a morning or afternoon, trying new foods, picking up some fruit and veggies, or even choosing a new outfit. There is a large of variety of products for sale, you just never know what you’ll find, and this, of course is part of the appeal.

 

Food, glorious food

One of the biggest trends of late are farmers markets. The produce available is usually sourced from local farms. It’s a great way to support local producers and buy fresh fruit and vegetables straight from the grower. The bonus is being able to ask the farmer questions such as where and how they grow their food, and ask tips on how to store your purchases. You might even score some great recipes. But, it’s not just fruit and veggies, many of the growers make other foodstuffs such as cakes, breads and preserves. I love buying seasonal produce and it’s quite exciting smelling, tasting and touching before buying in a relaxed, outdoor atmosphere. No neon lights and sterile supermarket vibes here! The fruit may not look perfect, but what in nature is? I love getting to know the sellers by name and also being greeted in a warm and friendly manner.

 

Jewellery, clothes and more

There’s always an eclectic mix of items available. Handmade clothes are often unique and often you’ll find beautiful pieces that you’ll not find in any shop. I’ve found many a treasure for friends with young children, delightful pieces made with love.

You’ll also invariably find a jewellery stall where again you probably find an item that is unusual and just right for you. Think handmade necklaces with your favourite semi-precious stone with matching earrings. They are usually inexpensive and nice treat to buy yourself.

But, one thing I really get excited about (no surprise to my regular readers) is the art stalls. So many times, I’ve stumbled across undiscovered artists with their creations. I can’t tell you how thrilling it is to come across something new and fresh. Different mediums from painting, sculptures, photography and more.These markets are an inexpensive platform for hungry artists who may not have the network or funds to promote themselves. Even if it’s only for a few moments, stop and admire their work. It might just make their day!

 

Remain balanced

I can’t sing the praises of village market enough, but remember there is a balance. Obviously, markets are only on limited times (usually weekends) and they can’t fulfil all your shopping needs. It’s still important to stay loyal to your local retailers, whether it’s your local green grocer, newsagent, supermarket or real estate agent!

Photo Source: Pinterest