I drove past a restaurant packed with locals & thought to myself, "This must be good". But despite its name, my Combination Hot Pot (supposedly to be one of its more popular dishes) was homecooked food at its best. I can't deny the portion was big and generous with all kinds of meats & veggies. But the wow factor was not there.

Approximate cost: $20

It is a cute little restaurant. I was early and chatted with the female staff. She was pleasant but did not talk much, most probably due to little English. I ordered the entree sampling (satay, curry puff & fish cake) and they tasted delicious, followed by green curry chicken rice which was equally tasty. The ambience was relaxed & I tarried a while, only stood up to go when the dinner crowd started coming in.

Approximate cost: $20

The restaurant is bright & cheerful with a huge sign on its roof that says "Authentic Malaysian Restaurant". I drove onto the carpark right at its doorstep - so convenient. I ate their lunch special - Nasi Lemak that comes with coconut rice, egg, peanuts, cucumber & curry chicken. It is good comfort food. My only complaint: Not hot enough.

Approximate cost: $10

If you have not been to Point Cafe at East Gosford, you should make plans to go soon. It's not just about the food & beverage but also the beautiful views of the Japanese Gardens the cafe oversees. Yes, the homemade scones with jam & cream I ordered were excellent - they simply melted in your mouth. The cappuccino was one of the best I had tasted. Then take a walk through the gallery for some amazing finds.

Approximate cost: $11

It used to be VERY good. But now the portion has shrunk & also not as tasty as before. My bigger problem was I brought along a friend & I was not proud of it. Anyway, I ordered Bakso (Spicy Beef Ball Soup with Vermicelli) & Gado Gado (Salad with Peanut Sauce) to share. The balls were so small! The noodles only one lift of the chopsticks! The salad was too wet! I was so disappointed.

Approximate cost: $19

A walk along Sydney's Chinatown made me wonder: It's time for a facelift. The buildings and shops looked so tired & worn out. Undecided where or what to eat, I just walked into Spring River - another Chinese restaurant among many. I ordered Fried Rice with Prawn & Egg. That was basic & should be safe. Indeed it was. Guess I was hoping for some WOW factor but it did not happen.

Approximate cost: $10

I love alfresco dining but it is rare with Chinese restaurants. I think they should because wok cooking can be very smoky & stuff up the air indoor. When I was in Perth. I happened to stumble on one. I ordered their Fried Seafood Ho Fun with Egg Sauce - very expensive but worth it. I also ordered their Chinese Tea at $1.00 per person free flow.

Approximate cost: $20

Don't be mistaken. This is not the ground level Lane Cove BBQ Kitchen across the road from Lane Cove Square. The one I recommend is situated on 2nd level, round the corner from a travel shop. I ordered their Honey Chicken Rice for lunch and it was yummy. The chicken was sweet but not sickening. The unexpected few slices of crunchy cucumber & tomato on the side had also helped to make my day.

Approximate cost: $9.5

I love to eat pempek (a fish delicacy originating from Palembang, Indonesia) and it should be what this shop specialises in. But when I looked at the special dip that went with it at other tables, I knew at once it was not authentic. Instead, I chose to order Fried Chicken with Yellow Rice and it turned out to be delightful. I was so glad.

Approximate cost: $10

This was my first visit to Sedap Rasa. I ordered Oxtail Soup with rice. It was home cooked food at its best - very comforting and not too expensive too.

Approximate cost: $9.5