Have been given gift vouchers for SPA at Kogarah. The first time I went a couple of years ago, the service was excellent. I had a facial and pedicure. The student was extremely attentive. The second time I went it was disappointing. It was difficult to even make a booking - no-one answers the phone. Then I was ignored by the reception staff and the two students I had that time seemed to dislike each other. The girl that was doing my facial actually turned the lights down so the student trying to do the pedicure couldn't work and ended up having to leave, no communication or teamwork between the two of them. No supervisor came to check in either this time. The pedicure wasn't very good at all. I wasn't going to go back but my husband bought me another gift voucher (I hadn't told him I wasn't happy with the service) - absolute pain in the neck trying to book in this time and less than a month after purchase was told that Kogarah is no longer open on Saturdays and that I should go to one of the other locations. Didn't even offer a refund. Very very unimpressed. Would not recommend.

Approximate cost: $58

Have been going here for about 10 years, It used to be good but over time the service has declined. Some of the accountants are quite arrogant and dont really take the time to explain or listen. we've put up with it because its such a pain to change accountants but the last couple of years we have had bad tax returns because the accountant hasnt advised us of upcoming issues eg didnt mention that I was likely to be affected by bracket creep the following year, so didnt know I should have been salary sacrificing - got hit with a tax bill 3 times what I was expecting, last straw was that they didnt advise about changes to HECS voluntary payment discount being discontinued, had planned to pay it off this year - so annoyed. Only go there if you know what to ask for.

Approximate cost: $250

I had my eye laser surgery in 2004 and have never had any problems. I have three friends who have been to the same surgeon and are all very happy with their results. The doctor is very efficient and the surgery is quick and effective. The only draw back is the location which is in the heart of the city which makes car parking difficult.

Approximate cost: $2000

Small, comfortable cafe on Marrickville Road, near the library. Always does a good cappucino and delicious food. Good atmosphere with cool music. The kind of cafe where you can sit back and relax with a book. Does get busy on weekends.

Approximate cost: $3.00

Small patisserie on the Grand Parade towards Sandringham. Very convenient for grabbing a coffee and then heading to the beach. The barrista there is excellent. Cakes and pastries are sublime. There are only a few tables inside and it can get quite busy with takeaway orders but the staff are great and efficient. The coffees are reasonably priced too - $3

Approximate cost: $3.00

I usually try to drop in there when I am at Eastgardens and stock up on poultry to put in the freezer.These guys always seem to have very good specials on for chicken breast, drumsticks and wings. I bought 2 kilos of chicken breast for $15. Quality was good and they take credit card (so many butchers don't). Definitely recommended.

Approximate cost: $15

When at Westfield Eastgardens this is the cafe we always head to for lunch and coffee. The sandwiches are huge and great value, I love the thick brown bread. Coffee has always been good too. Its near the parents room on the ground floor, which makes it convenient if you have little ones with you.

Approximate cost: $12

Our Body Corporate has engaged Bay St to carry out numerous plumbing works - all of which have been of poor quality. The latest involved a pipe reroute which sags and looks a mess. There was still leakage but when the plumber went out he advised there was no leak present. When we pushed the issue, he then went back out and said there was a leak but it wasn't related to the work he had done but was a new leak. How he didnt see the huge puddle at the front door the first time he went there is a mystery. I am aware of at least 2 strata managers that refuse to engage Bay St Plumbing due to their poor quality and one of which has actually taken Bay St Plumbing to the CTTT in a dispute. We are now refusing to let our Managing Agent engage them in any further work. I definitely would advise people to steer clear of this plumber - I can't understand how they can still be licenced.

Approximate cost: $1000+

Very reasonably priced local butcher, has all cuts of meats as well as chicken. Always has good specials in the window and quality is fine. Normally the cheapest overall when compared to the other butchers on Marrickville rd. Offers a dozen eggs with purchases over $70. Only takes cash though.

Approximate cost: $10

Its a typical $2 shop but has a really good range of cheap kitchen supplies. Perfect for when you're first starting out living away from home and just want to get a cheap set of everything. Lots of plastics - containers, colanders, bins; and a good range of utensils. Also has a hardware aisle. The 4 boxes of tissues for $3 is a bargain too.

Approximate cost: $2 plus