INNER CITY. Located in the nightclub area, this seafood restaurant boasts a Croatian twist and is popular with a young crowd on weekends since it serves food until fairly late hours. The interior is casual and features underwater-scene murals. Entree options include such dishes as spicy sausages, poached Tasmanian mussels, or Barramundi fillets. Casual attire and reservations suggested. BUS: from Elizabeth Street, 15 minute walk from Town Hall along Oxford Street.

INNER CITY. You'll have your pick of seating in this café ­ there's one large communal table and several smaller ones, all stainless steel. The eatery attracts an interesting mix of people: Everyone from art students to business people enjoy the modern Mediterranean cuisine in a building that overlooks the street below. The DOV MIxed Plate is a big hit: hummus, chopped liver, feta, eggplant, and tomatoes join to make a delicious meal. Casual attire and reservations not accepted. TRAIN: to St. James or Martin Place.

CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT. Overlooking the Harbour and next door to the Opera House, East Bank offers a huge menu featuring contemporary Australian food with Italian flair. You can enjoy kangaroo served with mashed potato and asparagus and blueberry jus, or duck with field mushrooms, cannelloni beans and roasting sauce - or be less daring and go for a pizza or pasta dish. AUD15 corkage fee. TRAIN: Circular Quay station.

THE SPIT. Cool tones and natural woods set the scene at this refreshing restaurant, where floor-to-ceiling windows and a balcony suspended over the water afford stunning views of the Harbour and its yachts. Locals from the Northern Beaches frequent the place, stopping in for impeccable seafood and an inviting ambiance. The menu offers clause after clause of delicious fare, including seared fillet of Tasmanian salmon with crab and prawn tortellini on a chilli and zucchini frittata dressed with saffron butter sauce. Other options are wild barramundi fillet steamed in a paper bag with fresh mussels or grilled medallions of king fish. 15 mintues by road from the city centre, or 20 minutes by water directly to the private jetty and outdoor dining area. BUS: 229 from the city.

EASTERN SUBURBS. At this cafe, you'll find great food, and you get to enjoy a panoramic view of the beach to boot! A light-colored interior with wooden walls provides an airy, open feel. Yulla is a higher end Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cafe for beach bums and other locals. Great signature dishes include the Israeli salad and the mixed dip platter. Casual attire and reservations not accepted. BUS: 382 or L82 from Elizabeth Street to Bondi Beach.