EAT > Florentino, Melbourne (15/20)

Florentino is one of Melbourne’s oldest grand restaurants. At the ‘Paris End’ of Bourke Street (if there is such a thing), the restaurant is the centre piece of Guy Grossi’’s restaurant empire, which includes the Grossi Grill, Cellar Bar and the excellent Cocktail Bar Arlechin. Climb the stairs to a warm welcome on the first floor,…

ByCrispy2 days ago0Comments

EAT > Wollongong

EAT > The Boathouse, Wollongong (15/20)

Perched atop the North Wollongong Surf Life Saving Club, The Boathouse North Wollongong has quickly established itself as one of the South Coast's premier dining destinations since opening in October 2024. (Not that there has been a huge amount of competition for upmarket dining in Wollongong up until now). With panoramic views across North…

ByCrispyApril 13, 20250Comments

DRINK > MILANO

DRINK > Bar Morna, Milano Italy (15/20)

We stumbled into Bar Morna after a long drive from the Dolomites back to Milan and a fairly long walk from the car hire return (at the Duomo) back towards our hotel Magna Pars in the vibrant Via Tortona area of Milan. The hosts immediately welcomed us in encouraged us to partake in aperitivo…

ByCrispyMarch 16, 20250Comments

SKI > ST ANTON STAY > DOLOMITES STAY > ITALY

STAY > Snowlake Apartments, Alleghe Italy (15/20)

When you tell people you are going to ski in Alleghe, the likely first comments are “where?” And the next comment if they do recognise the name is oh, yes AL - LEG - HEY. It seems a place where pronunciation of the name is a little complex, it is a small town about 30 kilometres…

ByAl ManakFebruary 8, 20250Comments

DRINK > BARS DRINK > ST ANTON

DRINK > Grünbeck, St Anton AM (15/20)

Finding a place that is really comfortable to pop in for a coffee, a beer, a snack or a meal. That is the sign of the local you want to visit. Another good sign is when the patrons start talking and sharing stories. Grünbeck has both and plenty more. AMBIANCE > Hidden…

ByEd ItorJanuary 26, 20250Comments

STAY > WA

STAY > Pullman Bunker Bay Resort, Western Australia (15/20)

Bunker Bay is one of the most beautiful and pristine beaches in the world. Turquoise blue water, sandy white beaches, red stone feature reefs it is stunning. With one of the best new world wine districts (for Cabernet and Chardonnay) just down the road, there are hundreds of excellent Margret River wineries to…

ByEd ItorDecember 28, 20240Comments

DRINK > MELBOURNE

DRINK > Bobbie Peels, North Melbourne (15/20)

North Melbourne has more than its fare share of great pubs and the 'Bobbie Peels' is one of those that absolutely crackles. Nestled on the corner of Queensberry and Peel Streets in North Melbourne, Bobbie Peels stands as a testament to the city’s vibrant pub culture. This charming establishment seamlessly blends the warmth of a…

ByCrispyDecember 14, 20240Comments

EAT > MELBOURNE

EAT > Sodafish, Lakes Entrance (15/20)

Perched along the picturesque Esplanade in Lakes Entrance, Sodafish has quickly become a must-visit destination for seafood enthusiasts and casual diners alike. This coastal eatery offers a perfect blend of fresh, locally-sourced seafood and a relaxed atmosphere that captures the essence of the Gippsland Lakes region. AMBIANCE > A floating restaurant amongst the fishing…

ByEd ItorOctober 9, 20240Comments

EAT > MELBOURNE

EAT > Pinotta, Fitzroy North (15/20)

Pinotta has been a busy bustling bistro wine bar on St Georges Road in Fitzroy North since 2011, led by the vibrant Heidi Modra who welcomes guests who come from the neighbourhood and across Melbourne. The big change in 2024 is the addition of Phillipa Sibley as executive chef. Sibley (you may well remember her…

ByCrispyJune 11, 20240Comments

STAY > SYDNEY

STAY > Ace Hotel, Sydney

The Ace Hotel in Sydney knows how to party. It is definitely that kind of place. If you are looking for a low key discreet place to chill, then this is probably not the place for you. If you are looking for a hotel that is party central then good chance…

ByCrispyMay 3, 20240Comments

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