It's is summer now in Sydney and I have been missing the good old times last year when Destination of New South Wales (DNSW) showed us how to live like a local by taking a local ferry past the Sydney Opera House or visit the local farmers' markets. We even walked through the quaint neighbourhoods and sip local brew at cafe. Here are some of the eateries and cafes I have check-listed when I was there. 

#1 The Grounds
 Located in an old pie factory from the early 1900's, The Grounds of Alexandria is the flagship venue for its specialty coffee. The site hosts a coffee research and testing facility alongside a cafe, opening onto a luscious garden of heirloom vegetables and fragrant herbs. 

#2 Bel & Brio
Situated in the foodie precinct of Barangaroo, Bel & Brio takes inspiration from traditional European cooking styles to create dishes that are centered on fresh produce, much of which is grown on the Bel & Brio Farm. I also had my first Rum Baba, a dessert from Southern Italy.

#3 Doyles on the Beach
Watsons Bay is Australia's oldest fishing village and remains a thriving local inlet popular for its scenic locale and fresh seafood. Overlooking a prime expanse of Sydney Habrour, the restaurant has long been a fine dining Sydney institution for those looking to experience fresh fish, lobsters, prawns and more. 

#4 Bill's
Bill Granger's restaurant reflects the Australian's spirit - sunny, easy-going and generous. I wasn't welling too well that day, hence there are not food pictures being taken for this restaurant. However do remember to try the famous ricotta hotcakes and sweetcorn fritters if you are visiting.

#5 Moore Park Produce Market
Moore Park Produce Market is aimed to connect the best NSW growers, producers, chefs and artisans. The market is curated by chef Matt Kemp, who is passionate about fresh local produce. Apart from showcasing the best in local produce, it features weekly workshops and cooking demonstrations.

#6 Black Star Pastry
 Pop by Black Star Pastry @ Rosebery and try the famous instagram-worthy strawberry watermelon cake!

#7 Three Blue Ducks
Connected with Koskela next door, Three Blue Ducks is just beautiful, garden lush and green. The cafe focus on unique dishes made with smoke and fire. Its Argentinian grill in the garden gets fired up every chance it gets; with whole lambs, pigs and large cuts of beef.

#8 Little Beach Boathouse
Nelson Bay's newest waterfront restaurant, Little Beach Boathouse offers uninterrupted views over the ocean while enjoying a modern fresh Australian food.

#9 Papa Gedes Bar
 Hidden down in a cobblestone laneway off Kent Street, Papa Gedes offers tiki cocktails, absinthes and herbal elixirs with their unique witch doctor style. The bar is dimly lit, with candles and lamps providing just the right ambience to showcase their voodoo magic.

#10 Lobo Plantation
 Named after Cuban sugar baron Julio Lobo, this place is a shrine to the rum bottle. The bar is bedecked with rattan lamps and bentwood bar stools, a small subterranean patch of the Caribbean, sun faded, time worn. 

That was pretty much I had visited during my Sydney trip. Hopefully I can cover more countries this year and explore new culture, food and experience. 2017 gonna be a good good year :)
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