Parlar is not exactly your budget-friendly tapas fare – but then, it doesn’t pretend to be. It’s as lavish as it comes, from the opulent décor to the smattering of caviar here, there and everywhere. We left with a hint of smoke on our palette, a sting of chilli on our lips, and a hell of a dent in our wallet – but hey – anywhere that leaves you warm and fuzzy in this weather is priceless, right?

MuMu typifies all things Merivale – it’s a well-oiled machine, an undeniable cash cow, and there’s just nothing else like it in Sydney. Come on a Friday or Saturday to take advantage of the buzzy atmosphere (read: breathtaking chaos of a hawker market). But remember, while fluorescent signs looming at the entrance proclaim “MUMU 4 U”, it’s not for the faint hearted. MuMu may (or may not) be a restaurant for you – but it’s certainly one for us.

Jane is a quiet achiever among a cascade of great newcomers in Sydney. There is clear knowledge of food in the kitchen and visible passion for it on the floor, putting foodies like us right in our element. Jane evokes a wistful affection for long-lost times, even in those of us not even thought about back in the 70s. But above all, it takes this sense of familiarity and breathes new life into it, exhibiting through native ingredients the very best of this country we are lucky enough to call home.

We are grateful for places like Pepito’s, which open doors to exciting cuisines and in the process transport you across the globe. They are the true forces of Sydney’s diverse culinary scene. With great atmosphere, staff and drinks (and food well on its way), you’re sure to have a fantástico time. Sorry! A fantastic time.

In Paski, the experience of a seasoned expert meets the ingenuousness of a new endeavour. The product is a restaurant that feels somewhat in its adolescent phase – confident, full of promise, but still figuring out exactly what it wants to be and how to get there. While not fully sated by our meal on this occasion, we recognise the potential, and know – like every good coming-of-age story – that it will be a success.

Every aspect of this place manifests to guarantee a sensational dining experience. The vibe is there, the drinks are there, and the food is mightily there. Margaret feels poignantly personal to Chef Perry – the brainchild of what he likes to cook, and what he thinks you’ll like to eat. Well, Neil – we can confirm: we do, in fact, very much like to eat what you like to cook!

Baba’s Place feels like a group of great people, doing what they love, and sharing that passion with its lucky diners. It’s the type of place we want to stick around forever and ever, and not just for that Bouillabaisse Bolognese. It’s totally out there, but at the same time brings comfort, and the hearty food packs an inimitable punch. As they’ll tell you on Instagram, visit asap – “don’t be silly”.

Robata may be relatively new to the Melbourne foodie scene, but it has come in flaming hot with its glorious interpretation of traditional Japanese grill. The funky, vibey setting and scrumptious food transport you straight to the streets of Tokyo.

La Salut brings a real slice of Barcelona to Redfern, with an authentic menu that challenges Spanish cuisine as Sydneysiders know it and a candid atmosphere verging at times on a party. Just as it should be at a wine bar - fun is the aim, happiness the result. Most pleasingly, it offers what European cooking is all about - simple food, expertly executed.

The concept of Firedoor is genius - no gas or electricity with which to cook - only fire. It’s real caveman stuff. But in the context of such lofty expectations, our meal, on this night at least, lacked the sense of adventure we had come for. We understand the ambition - to honour each ingredient by demonstrating its authentic flavour, and appreciated the resulting subtlety in some instances. But in others, we felt that visible opportunities to showcase the unique culinary expression were missed.

Impressively, Small Town confronts confident flavours and dallies with daring combinations. But for us, the food was not at the level of refinement we expected given the chef’s experience. That being said, its modern and thought-provoking menu makes it a standout amongst the Milton offering.

Ursula’s is a symphony of beautiful paradoxes. It’s mum’s old school meat & veg, updated to incorporate unique Pan-Asian flavours. It’s sincere in offering a slice of home, yet comfortable among the trendy outfits of 2021. It’s a family-oriented local, but a verifiable dining destination. It is unassuming, it is wondrous. 

Well – Sainte Éloise certainly delivers the goods at this delightful neighbourhood spot in Potts Point’s home of hidden gems, Llankelly Place. In all the right ways, DSE leaves you wanting more. The inviting menu makes us curious to see what’s next, and the moreish food means we can’t wait to go back.

10 William St is, and has long been, a staple of the Sydney food scene, favoured by an army of regulars and praised by the industry. However, it is cruel but true that a restaurant is only as good as your last visit, and our recent one has left a somewhat bitter aftertaste.

The Fitz offers a great atmosphere and delicious, elevated pub grub which speaks to the experience of the chef. It’s an absolute must for locals, and worth the trip for those further afield.