Eat Drink Sydney Archives - LIFE OUT & ABOUT

Church Point Pittwater Walk

Idyllic Water Views

The weather was perfect when my friend and I did the Church Point Pittwater walk. We started at the Bayview Reserve for the easy 30 minute stroll along Pittwater to the Waterfront Café at Church Point. The café is a must if you’re in the area but check their offerings during COVID-19 restrictions. The track follows the water’s edge, affording fabulous views over Pittwater on one side and architect designed homes, palms and lush vegetation on the other. We enjoyed the waterside sculptures along the way… a very inspiring walk!

West Head to Resolute Beach

Surrounded by Water & Views

Not only is the West Head Lookout in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park an ideal place to experience magnificent water views, but it is also the start of a beautiful walk to the secluded Resolute beach. The bush track descends from the lookout to the beach, winding its way through tall gums, ferns and striking grass trees, past moss and lichen covered boulders and down stairs that have been carved into the natural rocks.

If you have time, the Waterfront Café at Church Point ferry wharf is an idyllic location for brunch or lunch… just 30 minutes drive away.

Georges Heights Lookout to Clifton Gardens

On High

One of the most spectacular Sydney Harbour views can be experienced at the Georges Heights Lookout in Headlands Park Mosman. Perched high above the harbour the lookout offers unparalleled views to Manly, Vaucluse and the Sydney CBD.

The Incinerator – Willoughby

Ashes to Art

The iconic Incinerator building in Willoughby Centennial Parklands was designed in the 1930s by the famous architects Walter Burley Griffin and Eric Nicholls. It functioned as an incinerator until 1967 and then lay dormant until the 1980s, after which time it was converted into a restaurant and office space. Today it houses a fabulous cafe with outdoor eating areas and the Willoughby City Council’s contemporary art gallery, the ‘Incinerator Art Space’.

Secret Garden Lavender Bay

Enchanted

The Wendy Whiteley Secret Garden is one of the many attractions at Lavender Bay. By the waters edge lies this hidden sanctuary. What was once a neglected and overgrown bushy wasteland has been transformed into an enchanting garden of winding paths, lush foliage and intimate picnic nooks.

Balmain Vibe Upbeat Eclectic

Vibrant Eclectic

A suburb that was once a quiet harbour front village has transformed over the years into a bustling suburb of cafes, bars, boutique shops and galleries. The streets of Balmain are filled with thoughtfully renovated cottages, historic buildings and leafy harbourside walks.

Crater Cove Huts & Walk to Manly

The Hidden Path

Clinging precariously to the rock ledges of Crater Cove lies a small scattering of historic fisherman’s huts which have been constructed from locally found materials such as beach rocks, driftwood, old timber, corrugated iron and vintage bottles. Their rustic appeal attracts a few adventurous hikers, like those who persist in finding the hidden path! This outing includes the historic huts at Crater Cove, as well as a section of the much loved Spit Bridge to Manly walk.

Tramsheds Harold Park

All About Food & Drink

Who would have guessed an old Tram Depot could be such an exciting food destination, well Tramsheds Harold Park is just that! Under the one roof you will find a wide choice of restaurants and cafés serving delicious foods from around the world. There’s even a cosy dining area in one of the old trams.

If you also like to include a walk with your outing, head down to the waterfront and take the foreshore walk to Blackwattle Bay… it offers some fabulous views to the Anzac Bridge and city.

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University of Sydney & Glebe

Atmospheric Neo-Gothic

University of Sydney is Australia’s oldest university campus. With its striking neo-gothic sandstone structures and the impressive award-winning Law School Building, there is much to see and enjoy here… particularly if you love architecture. In addition, the University is in close proximity to the vibrant Glebe village where you will find plenty of eateries and bars, as well as boutique shops and art galleries.

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Southern Highlands Country Life

Villages & Rolling Hills

Connecting the historic towns and villages of the Southern Highlands is a network of quiet country roads. Rolling hills, tree lined farms and boutique wineries make the Highlands an idyllic place to explore by car, bike… or on foot! Also, with an impressive selection of fine dining restaurants and quality accommodation it’s easy to appreciate why many Sydneysiders find the Highlands a perfect destination for a weekend or day trip getaway, only 90 minutes drive south west of Sydney. Continue reading “Southern Highlands Country Life”

Sydney CBD Young at Heart

Holiday Destination

Down by the harbourside the open air bars and eateries are abuzz with the sounds of youthful excitement and celebration. The holiday crowds soak up the atmosphere, while the buskers entertain anyone and everyone. This is an exciting and stunning place to be, where Sydney is at its most vibrant… and where all the main tourist attractions are found!

If you venture beyond the waterfront you will find yourself surrounded by soaring glass towers and heritage sandstone buildings, and where impressive street sculpture and exotic palms bring a touch of art and greenery to the city streets. This is also where many of Sydney’s well known contemporary art and craft galleries are located.

The Rocks area and Circular Quay through to Martin Place is a holiday destination in itself, even if you’re not on holidays you will certainly feel like you are!

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Outdoor Eateries

Oasis Dining

Who doesn’t love to dine surrounded by nature! Whether it’s inside or out, a leafy outlook is always an inspiring place to eat… or drink 🙂 The Sydney area has many fine cafés and restaurants set in tropical gardens, parks and leafy neighborhoods. These are a few of our favourite places to enjoy the outdoors. Continue reading “Outdoor Eateries”

Lilyfield’s Venetian Clock Tower

Tower on the Hill

Dominating the Lilyfield skyline is the historic venetian clock tower of the Sydney College of the Arts (SCA) complex. An impressive site, surrounded by a cluster of beautiful old sandstone buildings and massive wrought iron gates. There are also extensive lawns, large shady trees and tall palms dotting the estate, making it a perfect place for a picnic.

Alternatively, why not take a short stroll along the popular Bay Run. Head north toward Rozelle and Balmain where you will find a zillion cafes for a bite to eat… or plenty of boutique shops to explore! Continue reading “Lilyfield’s Venetian Clock Tower”

Harbourside Eateries

Be Inspired

One of life’s most enjoyable experiences is sharing delicious food in beautiful surrounds. Sydney’s Lower North Shore with it’s leafy harbourside suburbs offers an abundance of inspiring places to eat and drink… below are some of our favourites!

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Chinese Garden Hidden Oasis

Tranquillity

Step away from the hustle and bustle of the city and discover a hidden oasis. The walled Chinese Garden of Friendship is bursting with beauty. Ornate pavilions, exotic plants, ponds, waterfalls and rocky outcrops. Paths twist and wind their way over little bridges and streams, while carefully composed scenes unfold as you stroll your way through the garden. Continue reading “Chinese Garden Hidden Oasis”

Vaucluse Estates & Secluded Bays

Harbourside Heritage

There is much history and beauty concealed within the perfectly positioned eastern Sydney suburb of Vaucluse. Heritage estates, secluded beaches, coastal walks and beachside cafés are scattered along its shores. Hidden in a small sandy cove is the impressive Parsley Bay century old cable suspension footbridge, while close by is the historic Vaucluse House and Tearooms… surrounded by towering palms and ever so lush gardens. Then you have Nielsen Park with its lovely beach side café restaurant and the historic Greycliffe House. Continue reading “Vaucluse Estates & Secluded Bays”

Castlecrag’s Hidden Paths

Designer Homes & Secret Paths

Castlecrag’s architect designed homes sit perfectly in their natural bush settings, surrounded by old stone walls, gum trees and lush foliage, while bushy cul-de-sacs hide the access to a maze of meandering pathways.

The suburb was originally planned by husband and wife team Walter Burley Griffin and Marion Mahony Griffin. Their vision was to prevent unsympathetic development in the area, as well as protect the native flora and fauna.

McMahons Pt Village Café Life

Village Vibe

McMahons Pt village has much to offer with it’s lively café scene, harbour views and leafy suburb walks. While it has a great selection of cafés, restaurants and bars, it is also a beautiful place to explore on foot. In addition, the charming Wendy Whiteley Secret Garden at Lavender Bay is only minutes away. Wherever you wander in this area you will be delighted, it is truly one of Sydney’s hidden gems!

Explore Sydney Botanic Gardens

Oasis of Calm

The stunningly themed Botanic Gardens are a true oasis, the perfect place to unwind and experience the beauty and perfection in nature. Also, if you’re looking for an inspiring place to eat in the city, try the delightful Botanic Gardens Restaurant, located at the heart of the gardens, surrounded by a large lotus pond and tropical vegetation. Continue reading “Explore Sydney Botanic Gardens”