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Pier
Jutting out over pretty Rose Bay, Pier has a well-deserved reputation for delicately cooked, incredibly fresh seafood that is unsurpassed in Sydney and quite possibly the whole country. A recently added tasting room offers bite-sized versions of the grown-up portions next door; it's still not exactly a cheap option (around A$18 - A$34 ) and don't expect to walk away replete.
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Prime
Need a massive shot of iron? Venture into this carnivores' paradise, deep in a dark, subterranean sandstone bunker. The succulent 400g, aged rib-eye with silky potato puree and a red wine sauce is a protein-packed knockout.
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Quay
Quay is shamelessly guilty of breaking the rule that good views make for bad food. Peter Gilmore may be one of Sydney's younger celebrity chefs, but Quay's exquisite cuisine proves he's at the top of his game (doubters should try the crispy-skin Murray cod with shitake). And the view? Like dining in a postcard. Bookings are recommended.
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Raw Bar
While the traditional way to eat fish in Bondi is with a coating of batter and a couple of scallops, these days Bondi's movers and groovers share big plates of super fresh sushi and sashimi at this wasabi-hued, bento-box sized restaurant. Views of Bondi beach are a bonus.
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Ripples
Flanked by the Harbour Bridge and the manic grin of Luna Park, the food does well to compete with the view and come out a winner. Expect lots of seafood with subtle Asian and European flavours on the ever-changing menu, along with fish and chips (around A$22 ) cooked to crispy perfection.
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Rockpool
Some of Sydney's finest food is produced at this sleekest of Neil Perry's restaurants, which has been tingling diners' culinary senses for over 15 years. The award-winning seafood is exceptional, with filtered tanks keeping critters fresh until the very last minute. Your cheque will be astronomical, but Rockpool remains a quintessential Sydney experience.
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Sean's Panaroma
You won't be disappointed in the always-evolving dishes at this modest eatery overlooking Bondi beach. Sean Moran and his team work hard to whip up complex dishes like preserved duck with potato cake, cabbage and pickled cherries. Sidewalk tables offer (sometimes windy) views; the ocean's charm makes your Barossa milk-fed lamb taste all the sweeter.
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Swell
Swell is an apt name for the swankiest place on the Bronte strip. Expect a skilful blend of European and Asian flavours, with simpler meals available at lunch (from around A$16 ) and a popular breakfast menu.
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Yellow
Yes indeed, it's yellow. The cheeriness continues inside where bouncy/touchy/feely staff enthusiastically proffer the finest olive oils, homemade pastas, cakes, quiches, jam, polenta and sausages. The bistro next door throws it all together and comes up with winners. Hey, is that Paul Keating in the corner?
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