Grapevine

FROM humble takeaways to grand temples of gastronomy, Australians embrace eating out with gusto and glee. We hunger at every option, with choice shaped only by whimsy, occasion and money in our pockets.

THE WINE list is succinct, and knowledge for finding balance with the diverse menu is evident through Old and New World choices from some lesser-known producers along with some familiar, reputable labels.

NEVER take your eye off the ball and never, ever allow anything to come out of the kitchen that fails to measure up to diners' expectations.

ENTER Jellyfish, a stylish, absolute waterfront restaurant that specialises in the procurement and delivery of great, fresh fish.

ADELAIDE'S Skycity top guns thought differently and shrewdly have brought in not one but two master tacticians to make the impossible a reality.

THE Red Cabbage is a great place to dine.

As good as all those new rooftop views are, the garden surrounding Trunk is definitely among the best of the city's great outdoors.

It?s easy to miss Rocket Restaurant, perched on the first floor of an office block in Chatswood.

Giovanni Spinazzola says he's staying put at Da Gianni Trattoria for the foreseeable future.

NEWS on all the Queensland coastal fronts is all good, with new venues opening on both the Gold and Sunshine coasts and all with seasonally sensitive and site-appropriate menus.

A booming economy in the west means higher prices, and that includes restaurant meals. Costs have gone up alarmingly but you can still find quality food with a good dollop of value thrown in.