Bones and Smoke - Bondi

Bones and Smoke is an American BBQ restaurant that is health conscious. There's no seed oils used which is fantastic.

Bones and Smoke is located in Bondi and is a short walk away from the Westfields. Chef Vinnie was previously in the Central Coast and he's been perfecting his cooking style for his eager patrons.

Jin’s Meat Pie - Eastwood

 

It's been an incredibly crazy 2026. I've been active sporadically on instagram but I am overdue on the food blog. 

I was introduced to Jin's Meat Pie a few years ago in 2023 when they won a blue ribbon by the Country Women's Association in the "baked Item" award. I thought it was rather strange that an eatery in Eastwood (and now Burwood) with chinese roots would win!

Food Safari Hunter Valley

 

To make the most of my time in the Hunter Valley, I recently went on a Dining Safari Experience. This was a specially curated food tour that takes you to 5 different venues where you can taste food with a matching wine or other drink.

The Ambassador Training Restaurant, Ryde (Buffet night)

 

Life has been busy between work, my child starting preschool and left field things that life throws at you! As a belated mini celebration, I head back to the Ambassador Restaurant which is a training restaurant for the Corden Bleu School. 

You need to book ahead as there are set dates in which the schools open up to the public to book. I booked Friday 13th June for dinner. 

The Ambassador Restaurant, Ryde

 

I've often driven past the Ambassador Training Restaurant which is located within the Ryde TAFE at the Le Corden Bleu school. The bookings availability appears to be mostly mid-week slots, some at dinner time and some at lunch time. Just after Valentines Day, I manage to get a slot on a Monday night. It's a three course meal for $44, plus any drinks you order. I think that's quite good value and you are also supporting trainee chefs and staff. 

The Dining and Co, Mascot

 

Justin Park, ex-Executive chef at Quay has opened up his fourth cafe - Dining and Co in Mascot / Alexandria. I’ve been to the original venue of Dining and Co in North Ryde so I know i'm in for a good experience.

Izakaya Umina, Cremorne

Izakaya Umina is located in Cremorne. It has a simple shop front so you may not realise this hidden gem exists. While the name “Izakaya Umina” sounds Japanese, the restaurant is best described as Modern Japanese with a splash of French technique. Owner and Head chef Tomo is Japanese but is trained in French cooking. I love this combination.