The Sydney Traveler

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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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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I always knew you could count on Sydney for a fantastic meal, but now it’s official. Local restaurants scooped the pool at last night’s 2008 Savour National Awards for Excellence.
For a special night out, head to Quay restaurant. It was judged the best fine dining restaurant in Australia. For something a little more low-key, make sure you try Oscillate Wildly. This Newtown restaurant was named the country’s best informal dining destination.
If you’re in the mood for fish, you can’t go past Neil Perry’s Rockpool. It’s Australia’s best seafood restaurant. For a taste of the Mediterranean you won’t go wrong with …read more

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They’re not making biscuits in North Strathfield anymore, but the old Arnott’s factory is still a fantastic place for a feed. In fact, these days the Bakehouse Quarter is more exciting than ever. This old factory site has been transformed to a multicultural restaurant hub and retail center.
For a dose of kitsch look no further than the Outback Steakhouse. I visited this place with American friends in the United States who thought I’d enjoy the taste of home. Now this popular chain has found it’s way Down Under. The food isn’t very Aussie at all really, but the over-the-top décor …read more

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My husband and I ventured out to see Jason Mraz at The Enmore on Saturday night. I love shows at this intimate Sydney theatre, and it goes beyond the venue’s fantastic vibe. What really wins me over is that it gives me an excuse to try another Newtown restaurant.
King Street is dotted with exciting eateries boasting a range of cuisines, but we were swayed by the inviting atmosphere and tempting specials board of Gigi.
Gigi offers much more than the Italian staples of pizzas and spag bol. In fact, it was difficult to choose exactly what I wanted. I decided to …read more

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Culture vultures and foodies can happily come together at the Gallery Café. This rustic eatery in Annandale delivers both in abundance, making it a favourite amongst locals.
Almost every square inch of wall space over the two levels is adorned with works from some of Sydney hottest young artists. And the best part is, if you see something you like you can take it home. Everything displayed here is for sale.
It’s quickly earning a reputation for serving up some of the best breakfasts in the inner west thanks to the interesting menu which goes beyond your average bacon and eggs. Those …read more

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Legendary Asian chain restaurant Din Tai Fung has brought their magic to Sydney’s World Square. Just like the popular eateries in Los Angeles and Jakarta, business is already booming.
Dumplings are Din Tai Fung’s specialty, and they come in virtually every guise. Soup dumplings, dessert dumplings, and the regular kind are all lovingly prepared with precision by Din Tai Fung’s staff.
They’re all proudly displayed on an oversized menu, which can seem quite daunting at first glance. However, even if you don’t know a lot about Asian food ordering needn’t be stressful thanks to the colorful photographs of the dishes. Just choose …read more

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What do you do after a long day at the Good Food and Wine Show? Why, you go and eat!
Yes, my husband I probably didn’t need dinner on Saturday night, but the lure of Darling Harbour’s buzzing eateries proved to strong to resist. We opted for the Ice Cube Seafood Grill, deciding it was the best spot for something light. It turns out much of Sydney had the same idea, so we waited at the bar for a vacant table.
The bar really needs more seats for those busy nights. After a day on our feet, it was a little frustrating …read more

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Image details: Establishment 5th Anniversary Party served by picapp.com

Ivy is the ambitious brainchild of Sydney nightclub mogul Justin Hemmes. His leisure pleasure palace promises to be a one-stop entertainment destination, and the first stage is open right now. Currently guests can dine and drink at one of the venue’s two restaurants and four bars.
Diners can choose from the American style grill Mad Cow. The menu was designed by super chef Peter Doyle so it should be something special. More adventurous tastes may way to check out Teppanyaki, which offers a modern twist on the Japanese classics.
Cocktail lovers will want to …read more

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If you want a great meal in Sydney, you needn’t look any further than Tetsuya’s. The innovative restaurant, which combines Japanese flavours and French techniques, was ranked number nine in the S. Pellegrino World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
You’re also promised a world class meal at Rockpool (fish), which scraped in at number 49. Not a bad effort when you consider how many restaurants exist in the world!
Tetsuya’s and Rockpool (fish) were the only Aussie restaurants to make the prestigious list.
Image source: EssG @ Flickr

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