5 creatives share their favourite date spots in Sydney
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WORDS BY FASHION JOURNAL
“I love a natural wine bar as much as the next guy but when it comes to dating, I say the weirder the better!”
Let’s face it, the success of a first date is half about the person sitting across from you and half about where you two choose to meet. Picking the right venue or activity to nervously ask each other “So, what do you do for fun?” (I’ve never known what to say to that) is imperative.
There are so many elements at play: what food is the least messy and will not get stuck in my teeth? What place has a happy hour to swig away an hour of getting to know each other? Which venue has a comfortable atmosphere that will cushion an inevitable lull in conversation?
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Even if you’re a few months in (if so, congrats), there’s nothing more exciting than trying somewhere you’ve been dying to go. But when the list on your notes app is looking a little abysmal and the Google searches are getting you nowhere, how can you know where to go?
To aid your next romantic night out, we asked five Sydney creatives to kindly share with us their most frequented and loved date night spots. Whether you’re a little more outdoorsy and want to make the most of the impending summer sunshine or are more of a fan of the humble wine bar, there’s something for everyone here.
Rowi Singh, makeup artist and content creator
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My favourite date spot is two-pronged, perusing an art gallery followed by an afternoon bevvy. Wandering through the new north building of the Art Gallery of NSW always does it for me, it’s relaxing and a great source of inspiration. To top the day off, stopping by the Library Bar for an afternoon cocktail never misses in my books. Love this tucked-away spot with stunning skyline views.
Chloe Moore, content creator
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While I am known to be an overly organised person, date night for me is often only planned with an hour’s notice. This habit is not ideal for my boyfriend and I’s wallets, but Restaurant Hubert always saves our night with their walk-in bar area. The food is some of the best in Sydney – and, they get extra bonus points for mentally transporting us to a post-war Paris with the dimly lit dining hall, red leather booths and the occasional live jazz band.
When it comes to ordering, a dozen oysters are always a given. But I also rotate between the steak frites and Normandy burger – I swear that seaweed salt changed my life. If you manage to grab a table in the dining area by bringing out your puppy dog eyes, then a side of escargots from the main menu is absolutely necessary… obviously with a baguette to dip in the herby, buttery sauce. And of course, my perfect date night would not be complete without a Southside cocktail (or two).
Lily Flood, content creator
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My go-to date night spot is a cute Italian restaurant in Manly called Pocket Pizza. I love how quaint and authentic the interior is, it’s so intimate. I personally will always opt for the outdoor tables which get the sun in the afternoon, especially in summer.
Start off with some cocktails and fresh focaccia with burrata, followed by some pasta and pizza (the Funghitown pizza is a must!). Wash it all down with one of their nice selection of wines and of course, finish off with a tiramisu.
Claud Bailey, filmmaker and program producer
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I love a natural wine bar as much as the next guy but when it comes to dating, I say the weirder the better! My Hinge profile literally says ‘I’m looking for weird first dates’. I’ve done it all; circus shows (yes, multiple), pottery classes, karaoke… Trust me, there is good stuff if you know where to go (RSL event pages or rogue Facebook groups). The best part? If the date isn’t a vibe, it doesn’t matter because you’re not stuck talking at some pub but instead are immersed in a weird and wacky experience. And if it’s a vibe? You’ve got yourself a date you’ll never forget.
My other recs (cause sometimes it’s nice to be romantic): play some pool at The Eveleigh in Redfern, followed by dinner at Kindred close by in Darlington. If you want to get out and about, try an ocean swim at Mahons Pool followed by a beer at Clovelly Bowls at sunset.
Bronte Winnem, FJ contributor
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For me, it’s a tie between Cafe Freda’s in Darlinghurst and Sunset Sabi in Manly. Cafe Freda’s just exudes cool. The interior and alfresco dining area sprawls onto the side of Oxford Street making you feel like you’ve stepped into a wine bar in Copenhagen. The menu is small but decadent and perfect for sharing. My favourites are the pickle plate, the kingfish and the baguette with whipped butter. If you’re looking for a fun date that turns into a night out, head down there on a weekend and catch one of the many DJ sets or special Sunday events that will take you and your beau through ’till late (disco ball included).
Sunset Sabi and its dank sushi roll (the best sushi I’ve had in my life!!!) have my heart before any man will. Not only is the food delicious, but it’s in the perfect spot to kick on if your date is going well. Take a short walk to a bottle-o, grab your preferred drink and sit on the prestige grassy waterfront spot to the left of Manly Wharf, cheekily dubbed by locals as ‘the office’. If you’re all dolled up and don’t feel like a picnic, head around the corner to Banco and try one of their natural and biodynamic wines.
For more on how to choose the perfect date spot, head here.
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