We dined on Sydney rock oysters and a bottle of pinot gris. You can imagine how well this went down on one of Sydney’s signature 32°C Fridays. As Table Manners says - “lick your plate”.

It feels like all of Australia is currently in Japan, carving fresh lines on the powdery slopes, enjoying quirky and unique vending machine treats, and doing damage in the local thrift shops (hello Anna Jamison). For those of us who aren’t lucky enough to be in Japan, I have a recommendation that brings Japan to us.

Based in Surry Hills, welcoming walk-ins, offering alfresco dining, a delicious menu, AND good wine, there is nothing to complain about.

When Tess first moved to Melbourne, she met her magnificent housemate Kaela. Lovers of wine, girls nights, gossip & olives, they soon embarked on their journey to find Melbournes best wine bars. After more than a year of careful research, they created an exhaustive list, they have been kind enough to share their top five.