Sydney’s top 10 first date spots
WHETHER you plan on sweeping your date off their feet or making a quick getaway, we’ve picked out the top 10 places to wine and dine your date.
YOU can never be sure how a first date is going to go down, so picking the perfect spot is crucial.
Whether you plan on sweeping your date off their feet or making a quick getaway, we’ve picked out the top 10 places to wine and dine your date.
If you’re going on a blind date, a cheeky Tinder hook-up or that guy from the coffee shop finally asked you out, have no fear because we’ve got you covered.
The romantic date: Wendy’s Secret Garden
If you truly want to blow your date away, Wendy’s Secret Garden at Lavender Bay is the spot for you. Grab a blanket and a picnic, pop some bubbles and watch the sun go down over the harbour. A picnic gives you the perfect opportunity to really get to know your date, especially when the garden’s history is grounded in love. When Aussie artist Brett Whiteley passed away, his wife transformed the overgrown derelict space into a little slice of heaven. You’ll be riding off into the sunset in no time. Where: Clark Park, Lavender St, Lavender Bay.
The all-rounder: Coogee Pavilion
Having never met this person before, you probably have no idea what they like to eat. Coogee Pavilion is your best bet to play it safe. The Pav has an extensive menu, catering for everything from fresh sushi to gourmet pizzas and killer cocktails. The lively and fun beachside atmosphere is sure to guarantee your date a good time. Enjoy a coffee in the afternoon or a tasty dinner followed by drinks at one of the four Rooftop bars. You can’t go wrong. Where: 169 Dolphin St, Coogee.
The adventurous date: SkyZone Trampoline Park
When you’re the adventurous type and your date isn’t into trampolining, it’s probably a deal breaker. It’s better to work these things out sooner rather than later. Best case scenario: he/she loves activities and you live happily ever after. Worst case scenario: they hate it, leave and you still get to unleash your inner kid for an afternoon. Crisis averted. Where: 75 O’Riordan St, Alexandria. www.skyzone.com.au/location/alexandria
The old school date: Skyline Drive in, Blacktown
Transport your date back in time to the 50s and catch a movie at the Blacktown Drive In. It’s definitely a step up from the standard dinner and movie. You can watch any of the latest blockbusters and grab a milkshake and burger, all in the comfort of your own car. This awesome venue gives you plenty of opportunity to pull the sneaky yawn and stretch. Disclaimer: in-line skates optional. Where: Cricketers Arms Rd, Blacktown.
The casual date: The Potting Shed, The Grounds of Alexandria
Nestled among pots and plants, this quirky restaurant is an ideal place for a first date. During the day or night the menu is spectacular, boasting a huge a la carte menu of fresh produce. And if you’re feeling like testing the relationship waters, the menu is great for sharing. Not to mention, the cocktails are fantastic, with names like ‘Senorita, I Feel for You’ and ‘Grow a Pear’. The Potting Shed is a winner. Where: 41-43 Burke Rd, Alexandria.
The lovey-dovey date: Moonlight Cinema, Centennial Park
Kicking off in December, the Moonlight Cinema is your perfect summer date. The cinema is located in the Belvedere Amphitheatre, Centennial Park. The ultimate outdoor cinema screens cult classic films and new releases, and is bound to impress your date. There is also a delicious selection of street food on offer for dinner. You could definitely feel a spark under the stars on this date. Where: Belvedere Amphitheatre, Centennial Park (on the corner of Carrington Dr and Broome Ave, Paddington).
The lunch date: Wild Pear Cafe, Dural
If you are Instagram-savvy you will recognise this place and their aesthetically-pleasing dishes. Open for breakfast or lunch, this intimate cafe has amazing food and drinks and a comfortable atmosphere. You can’t go here without ordering the Smashed Pavlova for dessert, it has fairy floss! You will get definite brownie points if the Wild Pear Cafe is your place of choice. Where: 658 Old Northern Rd, Dural.
The fun date: The Standard Bowl, Darlinghurst
If you’re looking for a little more than dinner and drinks and want to shake things up on your first date,The Standard Bowl is the place to be. You can have a game of bowling on the miniature alley or enjoy a drink at the bar while watching a live band perform. The fun continues upstairs, on the mezzanine level there’s pinball machines and pool tables for endless entertainment. You’ll be sure to secure a second date. Where: 383 Bourke St Darlinghurst 2010
The seaside date: Havana Beach, Manly
From the city to the surf, this upbeat Cuban restaurant combines great food and a great view for a perfect date night. The food and drinks are fun, which is a true reflection of the atmosphere. The good vibe is infectious and is bound to make your date smile. Havana Beach even has a Taco Tuesday night and who doesn’t love $5 tacos? You can continue the night by taking your date for a stroll on Manly Corso. Where: 14 South Steyne, Manly.
The foodie date: Jamie’s Italian Trattoria, Parramatta
To take your date on a memorable dining experience, Jamie’s Italian Trattoria in Parramatta is ideal. Dive into all your favourite pasta dishes and gourmet pizzas, and your bases are covered with vegetarian options. If you want to try something different for a first date, the restaurant also offers breakfast! Where: Centenary Square, Church St, Parramatta.
‘We got them’: Influencer details ‘mission’ to expose health workers
The Israeli influencer who exposed the vile tirade of two Sydney nurses says their comments have left him wondering who he can trust, describing the rising tide of anti-Semitism in Australia as ‘insane’.
‘I admire Pauline’: Shock Indigenous candidate ready to roll for Hanson
A one-handed Indigenous truck driver endorsed by One Nation for the federal election says he is running to end the ‘hoax’ that Pauline Hanson is racist.