Elite Traveler November-December 2018

EXPLORE SYDNEY GUIDE TO SYDNEY

SUNDAY SESSION The Grounds of Alexandria A playground for gourmets of all ages, The Grounds of Alexandria is perfect for a leisurely brekkie. It’s part restaurant, part rustic market and coffee roastery — all built on the site of a former 1920s warehouse complex. Around the sprawling area there’s an organic garden, on-site bakery, florist, barbecues, outdoor seating and even a petting zoo for little ones. thegrounds.com.au

Sitting pretty on the southeast coast of Australia, ever-upbeat Sydney is a vision of sun-kissed glamour. The iconic harbor glows in the afternoon sun, while Bondi Beach buzzes all year long. Even in the cooler winter months, from June to August, the cosmopolitan city revolves around outdoor experiences. Alfresco restaurants and bars spill onto the sidewalks, while hikes, sailing, coastal drives and wine tastings punctuate a perfect itinerary. Whether you’re seeking out the latest blink-and-you’ll-miss-it bar or luxuriating on an empty beach, the city’s casual-cool attitude will make you feel right at home.

by Kate Springer

BUZZING BARS

MV BISTRO &WINE BAR A casual-chic spot in Surry Hills, MV Bistro & Wine Bar was converted from a 19th- century workshop into the popular gin and wine bar that Sydneysiders know and love today. Whether you’re digging into an indulgent cheese board or simply sampling the lengthy drink list, the two-level venue promises excellent atmosphere and friendly service. In the winter, ask about the 100-plus wine list or the homemade mulled wine. Come summer, work your way through the lengthy list of gin-fueled cocktails. mv.wine

JANGLING JACK’S If it’s killer cocktails and classic rock you’re after, Jangling Jack’s is the place to be. Named after a famous tune by Aussie musician Nick Cave, the chic bar in Potts Point combines playful Victorian-era accents, leather booths, and vintage decor for an eclectic vibe that feels instantly authentic. Run by Australia’s only all-women bar team, the cocktail list will impress aficionados with reimagined classics, such as the Rosemary Gibson and Trinidad Sour (made with a whole shot of bitters). instagram.com/jangling.jacks

THE BAXTER INN This subterranean watering hole just off Clarence Street in Sydney’s financial district should be the first port of call for every whiskey enthusiast. Once you wind your way down the unmarked alley and a flight of stairs to the basement, the old-world atmosphere opens to reveal a long wooden bar, backed by a wall of more than 1,000 whiskeys. Suspender-clad experts will help you find the perfect drink, whether it’s a neat nip, carefully crafted cocktail, local

wine or craft beer. thebaxterinn.com

Photos Destination NSW, MJK Creative, Jason Loucas