This place is a gem. The extensive range of wine and beer at Leura Cellars is great...beer imported from different countries, and wines over 20 yrs old. The products can be a little pricey, and some of them are not worth the money, but the things that are rare are definitely worth paying for.
Approximate cost: $various
I went to this cafe once with my boyfriend, and was not expecting the place to have such lovely food. It seemed like a normal cafe, but I knew that when my pumpkin and hazelnut risotto came out that it was something special. I'm not a risotto fan normally, but this was delightful.
Approximate cost: $15
Crossroads has definitely had a makeover and the bistro has some lovely food and a really good atmosphere. It is pub food with a more upmarket touch.. I love the surf and turf, and the seafood platter served to the next table looked lovely. It is great that you can reserve a table also, meaning that the family can celebrate special occasions. Great value for money.
Approximate cost: $7-40
Little India is value for money. My family went there for a bday the other night, and for 7 of us (it is BYO though), the bill came to $120, and we were taking food home. I never go past the Lamb Korma, it is simply delicious, and you can choose the spiciness you would like for the meal. There are also specials on Monday and Tuesday, and 10% discount for take away pickup.
Approximate cost: $4-15
When my best friend told me that this place was great, she wasn't exaggerating. The prices are cheap, and the food is amazing. Do not go past the massaman beef, it is too good, and melts in your mouth. The pad thai and yellow curry is also great. Service is excellent and the people are always willing to help.
Approximate cost: $4-15
Panarotti's is a great pizza and pasta place for the family. At times, it can be extremely hard to get a table or the wait is ridiculous, but if you let them know that you have somewhere to be (say, a movie), they will try to be fair and get your order out faster. I can't go past the cheesy pizza, and Seafood (Pescatore) Pizza...they are divine. My mum loves the minestrone as well. There are also gluten free pizzas available, that are sometimes better than the normal pizzas.
Approximate cost: $7-30
Cafe Kasturi is a lovely place to go for an authentic Malaysian meal, with great value for money. The curries are great, as are the entrees, and you will not be able to leave without trying a few dishes...they are too yummy. Don't go pass the desserts, especially if you like durian. Very very nice indeed. A group of friends is great to take there, as there are private dining rooms upstairs.
Approximate cost: $5-20
Three words- Yummy, fun and unique. Every time I go to this place, I feel instantly relaxed and happy. It is quite small, so expect to wait sometimes, but it is worth the wait. My suggestion: start with a tropical icey or warm drink, and play a game of dominoes, read a poetry book or read your tarot cards (all on the bookshelf in the cafe) while you wait for your mains...the specials are always great, and you cannot go wrong with the soups and yummy crusty bread. For desserts, the options are endless...there is an extensive amount of gluten free and vegan options also. Also, ask about having high tea at home..there is a lady who can organise high tea parties, and the food is so nice.
Approximate cost: $3-15
This is the most amazing Yum Cha I have ever tasted. The food is mostly steamed, such as Gow Gee, Dim Sum, Rice noodles in XO sauce. It's all just yummy, and with complementary unlimited Chinese tea, it's the perfect lunch. You can have normal meals there, but Yum Cha is every day at lunch. You can also park for free in the back carpark if you get your receipt stamped. The desserts are also delicious...ask for the mango pancakes.
Everytime we have been there, it has worked out (with a serious amount of food, and some to take home) about $20 a person...so great value!
Approximate cost: $approx. $20 per person
Touch of Class is fantastic, and never leaves a hair out of place. I have been going to this hairdresser for over 8 years, and I have never had a bad hairdo. The hairdressers there have done my hair for formals, Uni balls, birthdays, and whether it was a simple haircut, or a beehive for my 60s themed 21st, the girls did my hair perfectly. Nothing is too much trouble, and it is always a pleasure to go to the hairdresser.
Approximate cost: $various