The Sydney Traveler

Italian restaurants are a dime a dozen in Sydney, but that only ensures that the really special ones stand out. Beresford Trattorio is just such a place, but what else would you expect with Danny Russo at the helm?
There’s a reason why Mr Russo has such a reputation. His dishes are inventive, while maintaining the rustic charms Italian is famous for. Dishes like the tagliatelle with truffled meatballs, squid ink tortellini stuffed with crab meat, and the stuffed rabbit leg are truly indulgent.
The wine list also deserves a mention, with around three-quarters of the drinks Italian. It’s refreshing to be …read more

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I know we’re all trying to cut those calories again after a big Christmas splurge, but there’s a good reason to put off that detox for just a little longer. A new cupcake shop has opened up in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, and its offering much more than your standard fare.
Ghermez is Persian for red, perhaps because the sweet treats featured here are red hot! You’ll be lured by exciting flavours like chilli chocolate, pistachio and rose, and sticky date.
If you’re in need of a sugar hit to help you get through those post-Christmas sales, Ghermez is worth a look! But …read more

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Spread a little Christmas cheer, and enjoy some fantastic food at the same time, with a meal at Verde. This inner city Italian restaurant will donate $2 to the Salvation Army for every pasta dish sold.
Verde offers some serious comfort food, like braised pork shank ragu, pan-fried gnocchi, and lovingly handmade pasta.
The $2 donations through December will help out the Salvos at their busiest time of year.
Trading hours: Lunch from Wednesdays to Fridays and dinner from Tuesdays to Saturdays
Location: Verde
Address: Corner of Stanley and 115 Riley Street, East Sydney
Public transport: The restaurant is a short walk from Museum train station
Parking: …read more

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A few weeks ago I brought you a special on international shopping destinations in the city. But of course, the influence of multiculturalism doesn’t just affect what we buy. It also affects what we eat. We can’t all afford to travel around the world to try the best authentic ethnic cuisine, but you don’t have to if you’re staying in Sydney. Here are some of the best “eat streets” in the city.

King Street, Newtown offers a taste of Asia, with goat aloo at Delhi O Delhi, Cambodian food vegan-style at Green Palace, and contemporary Thai cuisine at Chedi.
John Street, Cabramatta …read more

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My husband and I eat out a lot, so it takes something really special to blow us away. But that’s exactly what happened when we ventured into Leichardt’s Carpaccio last night. Really, you can’t go wrong when you head to Norton Street for Italian food, but this was one of those meals which simply wowed us.
I was taken in by the promise of ravioli with duck and porcini mushrooms in a Riesling cream sauce, and this was definitely the highlight of my experience. All that tender duck and fresh pasta and creamy goodness is a heavenly combo. But the lightly …read more

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Etch by Becasse is the latest culinary venture of Sydney masterchef Justin North.
Here he uses the same organic fresh produce that made his Becasse restaurant on Clarence Street such a success, but there’s far less fuss. The surroundings are classic and refined, with massive arched windows and glossy wallpaper.
The appetisers include ciabatta, olives, and fried goat’s cheese. If you’re feeling like something a little more substantial before the main event, the retro-inspired entrees are sure to please. Goodies like the classic prawn cocktail and sweet corn soup with blue swimmer crab will have you feeling nostalgic.
The mains offer new twists …read more

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McKenna Air Bar is coming! After a trial run last week, everyone is talking about the sky-high venue which will open for New Years Eve and some special dates in January.
The exclusive watering hole is actually a 22-seat bar suspended from a crane 40 metres above the ground. From here you can enjoy some expertly mixed drinks and pumping music as you take in the 360 degree Cockatoo Island vista. “Flights” take off every half hour and include a complimentary drink.
The fun stuff continues on the ground floor which has been dubbed McKenna City. This outdoor party area features a …read more

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The Rum Diaries sounds like a seedy pirate hang-out but don’t be fooled. This hot new Bondi eatery is super friendly restaurant and bar.
Emmy-Award winning designer Mark Bowey has created a colonial interior which is warm and welcoming.
The open atmosphere continues with the menu, which features around 20 “fusion tapas” dishes which are made to share. My mouth’s watering just thinking about the Chilean Pil Pil prawns with citrus crème, Tuscan braised chicken drumsticks with olive salsa, and the naked wedges with Murray River salt and thyme.
But as the name suggests, visitors come for the rum. Your stay is not …read more

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Sydney has a few chocolate cafés now, but I’m a girl so word of new additions is always well received. The latest one to open its doors is Adriano Zumbo’s Café Chocolat.
If the name sounds familiar you might be a regular at Adriano’s Balmain bakery, which is conveniently located just a few doors down. So we know he’s good with the sweet stuff, but can he make good chocolate? Yes he can!
The café features a small courtyard, indoor communal table, and a luxuriously cushioned chill-out lounge for relaxing with your gal pals. You can choose from around 30 hand-made chocolates …read more

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Consider digging deep next time you dine out to help those who can’t afford a restaurant meal, or any meal at all. The StreetSmart program encourages diners to make a small donation of $2 or more on their bill. You’re not going to miss the small change, but it can make a big difference to someone in need.
100% of your donation will go to grassroots organisation’s helping the homeless. The money goes to smaller charities that are often overlooked, so your assistance is so important.
This year 43 Sydney restaurants have pledged their commitment to the StreetSmart program, so make sure …read more

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