Valentines Sister Picnic <3
What could be more romantic than grabbing a picnic and bottle of bubbly before watching the sunset over Sydney from the best spot in town. With Wendy Whitley’s ‘Secret Garden’ right on my doorstep boasting the most iconic views of the harbour bridge, opera house and the CBD skyline all in one, a Valentines picnic seemed the obvious occasion.
Making it down to the front by dusk, the glistening lights of the city and nearby Luna Park were already twinkling upon the harbour. After a long wait for a pizza at the local Blues Point Gourmet Pizza (this place does the best Italian in town!), we were lucky to find a spot with uninterrupted views as we found ourselves surrounded by couples!
It seems everyone had the same idea for a Valentines date to remember, but I certainly can’t think of anywhere I would’ve rather been than with my sister enjoying a glass of bubbles, toasting to her special trip here in Sydney…love you sis ❤
It may have been a Tuesday evening, but with my sister in town and my visa confirmation, it was more than necessary to pop the bubbly!
My fabulous chef land lady who is a family friend put the evening together and did a marvellous job of prepping and serving a delicious dinner. It was a treat to have the dining table laid as I often sit out on the balcony with my dinner.
We were treated to a one dish delight of chicken thighs, sweet potato, beetroot and spinach drizzled with lemon mint jus and sprinkled with hazelnuts.
What a way to officially welcome in my second year in Sydney by hosting my family to a dinner party in this gorgeous home of Lavender Bay.
Hitting the beach at midday, it was buzzing and the bars were already pumping their tunes setting that feel-good Bondi weekend atmosphere. We found a spot on the beach and enjoyed a couple hours sunbathing whilst having some quality sister girl talk time.
With Bloody Mary’s on our minds following my Uncle’s suggestion for fixing our sore heads, we hit Bucketlist for arvo drinks. This spot right in the centre of Bondi beach is the perfect place for people watching that infamous strip along the front.
After a stroll around the boutique shops and vintage stores we visited Bondi Hardware, a hidden gem in the neighbourhood of Bondi serving top cocktails and delicious tapas, including a scrumptious chipotle manchego charred corn dish.
I opted for an iced coffee given my delicate head and my sister enjoyed a glass of Rose. Live acoustic music set the tone for an easygoing evening as we sat on the benches outside at golden hour surrounded by the hum of Bondi Sundaze.
First up on our vineyard tour we went to Mount Ashby Estate to soak up the authentic French terrace setting and catch up with the lovely owners who I used to work for. After tasting the beautiful wines, we purchased 2 bottles of their deliciously refreshing Rose as gifts.
Next we stopped by Bendooley Estate where the cellar door showcases a stunning feature fireplace on a cog system overlooking the picturesque fields of grapes. After an insightful discussion of the wines as we tasted the wide range on offer, we got a bottle of Reisling and Sauvignon Blanc as more gifts – I promise! 😉
Popping via Coles on our way home, we grabbed food for the BBQ and got back to get prepping. I made a trio of salads including Greek feta, sweet chilli carrot zucchini noodles and a simple green leaf avo salad to accompany burgers, sausages & charred corn.
Everyone enjoyed the evening sun as we chatted by the pool and got the feast prepped. It was the perfect end to an idyllic day in the scenic Southern Highlands showing my sister the area I called home for five months, and still continue to escape to when I need a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Heading down to The Rocks, we passed via the Luna Markets where the back streets were decorated with hundreds of beautiful Chinese lanterns.
As the sun was setting and a picturesque pink hue was settling over the harbour, we stopped by The Glenmore rooftop. I couldn’t think of a more fitting spot to enjoy a glass of rose with an out of towner than overlooking the harbour bridge and opera house set against the stunning Sydney skyline.
A few cocktails and vinos down and we were ready for some dinner! After showing my sister my new pad in Lavender Bay, we popped around the corner to a fantastic Spanish tapas bar called Delicado Foods. With wine served in suitably large glasses and an extensive menu of authentic tapas, this local favourite on a modest corner of Blues Point Road felt like we were in the middle of Europe.
We ordered a spread of potatas braves, halloumi mushrooms, spicy chorizo and salad before treating ourselves to desert of churros and Affogato Amaretto (naughty but necessary). A truly memorable evening spent with my sis showing her the sweet Sydney life as we soaked up those twilight tingles sipping our rose.
After sun baking for a couple of hours, I couldn’t think of anything more suitable to cool me down than a hearty bowl of acai. As primarily a fresh grocer store, Fruitologist also has a smoothie bar open all day churning out mouth-watering delights. So finally leaving the beach at 4pm, I headed straight there and ordered the classic acai topped with granola, strawberries, watermelon and added extra pb.
Served heaped over the top of the pot with a generous helping of granola and lashings of pb, my cravings for a refreshing bowl of sweetness were well satisfied. At only $12 per bowl and open until 7pm on weekdays, I know exactly where to visit when I need a quick bowl for the road or to grab and enjoy down the beach.
Arriving at midday on Australia Day, the cafe was bustling and there was a little wait for a table. Finally we bagged our spot on a bench right by the window with prime view of the harbour and clear blue water splashing on the rocks right by our feet.
I ordered my classic long black with a dash of hot milk and for brekky I chose the granola bowl served with soy soaked chia, mango, berries and edible flowers. Exquisite presentation and delicious flavour combos matched with top coffee, I left well fed and ready for my birthday celebrations!
I would be keen to return to try another one of their tempting all day breakfast combos which initially drew me in on their popular Instagram feed. Celsius certainly serves up all the goods with a varied food menu for all tastes and perfect coffee to match the dreamy location.
Kicking things off on the Friday, it was fun and games in the office as we hosted an Australia Day morning tea, followed by my idea to start the weekend early with an Ozzy ‘Dolley Trolley’ in the afternoon serving VBs straight from the Esky.
That evening, my boyfriend met me after work and we went for rooftop cocktails at Smoke bar in Barangaroo. After a stroll around Darling harbour, we settled in a bustling bar with live music to enjoy some food and watch the sunset.
Saturday morning it was time to face turning 24! I had a long video call with my parents back home who I miss a lot, but was delighted to be with my boyfriend who surprised me with a cute bike – I can’t wait to ride it to work over the harbour bridge.
Leaving my flat at Lavender Bay, we were greeted with breathtaking views of the harbour as hundreds of boats took to the water in honour of Australia Day. We were off for birthday brunch booked at Celsius Cafe over in Kiribilli, somewhere I have wanted to try out not only for the beautiful food, but for the unique setting right on the wharf.
We then ventured into town to Bondi Junction, grabbed the essential case of VBs and walked over to Centennial Park. Our group of mates had a great base under the shade of a tree where beers were already flowing and a game of cricket was well under way…cue an English gal showing the Ozzy boys how it’s done!
The day finished with more drinks and a feed at The Nelson pub in Bondi. Not at all the birthday I had envisioned, but undoubtedly the funnest and most enjoyable way to soak up the sun, celebrations and festive atmosphere of Australia Day in Sydney…Cheers to 24!
So here I find myself in the home of an artist turned chef and all round creative who has refined this beautiful space into a home inspired by her life of travels. Every corner of the flat is tastefully put together and has a story behind it to be told, from the opulent mosaic bone china to the side stool found on a street corner!
A couple of weeks prior to my move, this original framed print of John Lenon was purchased and placed as the centrepiece above my bed. To compliment such a dynamic piece, my Auntie gifted me this incredible tribal necklace which I’ve placed in prime position on my chest of drawers.
Adding my own personal touches to the decor with my ballet shoes hanging off the mirror and boat hat placed side by side with the necklace, I wanted to reflect the eclectic theme which is echoed throughout the flat. I feel so inspired by my surroundings nestled here in the hidden timeless pocket of Lavender Bay, Sydney.
Spending my weekends browsing the markets, trying another new coffee shop and meeting my friends for avro drinks in one of the quintessential pubs, I couldn’t imagine living anywhere else. However such an exclusive postcode comes at a price and an opportunity arose to live with a family friend in Lavender Bay. Given the idyllic location and beautiful apartment on offer, I decided to take the leap from central Sydney to just over the bridge…
Dani Aneka 