Guest Post** My friends think you’re wonderful…

It’s been a while and I have a backlog of dating disaster tales what I feel are only too appropriate to share… I’m going to start with the story of a guy I met on Match.com. Brace yourselves, buckle up and get ready to be thankful you’re not me right now…

 

I had joined up Match.com on a trial basis to see what the offerings were out there. It was a time before tinder, a time when Match.com was one of the few forms of dating that held a much higher probability ratio of not receiving dick pictures (always a bonus).

 

I had matched with a cute older guy, a bit older than I normally go for but figured YOLO and he was 36, not 56! Ha!

 

After we got chatting he revealed that he was a TV presenter for a world famous football clubs TV channel, interesting. So I did the thing any self respecting girl would do, I Google searched the fuck out of him – true to form, Google didn’t let me down. As said man, let’s call him Mikey (name changed obvs) was kinda in the public eye, I was able to see the public’s feedback and perceptions of him… let’s just say it wasn’t pretty.

 

I figured people were just jealous of his privileged job, so decided that I would try to figure out how much of a *prick* he was for myself… #ahem

 

After chatting on the site for a couple of days, he asked me for my number, a good sign in my eyes, so I dutifully obliged. To my surprise he text me almost immediately and asked if I’d like to go out. I was definitely interested in getting to know him better and to meet him in the flesh so I agreed… three days went by and nothing/ nada/ sweet FA – honestly why do men bother to ask you out if all they want is an ego boost. I deleted his number of figured another one bites the dust and that it was over before it began anyway – his lose etc

 

To my complete surprise, I got a text from him 5 days later apologising for being MIA, he explained that he’d met up with his recent ex and that they’d realised that there was still feelings there.

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FML – He went on to explain that he thought I was a really nice girl and didn’t want to string me along. Me being the lovely girl that I am told him to go Fuck himself… Just jokes I told him I understood and that if they didn’t give it a try they’d never know.

 

Another week went by ad I didn’t give our lad Mikey another thought. Well that was until I got another text from him that went along the lines of: “Hey, it’s Mike, I understand if you want to delete my number but despite my better judgement and advise from my friends I did give it a go with my ex and perhaps not surprisingly it didn’t work out. I really thought we got on and wondered if we could possibly pick up where we left off…” – Interesting, I decided I could either actually tell him to frock off or explore this scenario further to see what would come of it… Knowing me as you do… you can probably guess that I opted for the latter.

 

We arranged to meet up the next night, I have to be honest, I was actually quite excited.

 

We went to the local pub, I got there first so went to the bar and asked him what he wanted to drink, he text back stating a beer and said he was 2 mins away. I ordered the drink and got a tap on my shoulder, I turned around to be greeted by Mikey – he definitely was good looking, but looked a lot older in the flesh – he was also shorter than I imagined. We grabbed our drinks and sat down.

 

He seemed uncomfortable but I put it down to nerves – then he suddenly realised that he had forgotten his wallet. Luckily as he lived round the corner we said we’d go and pick it up on the way to the next pub. As we were talking he exclaimed that he had completely forgotten that he was meant to be taking part in the local pub’s quiz that night with his team. Quite surprisingly he asked me if I wanted to join him – for a first date I thought it was a bit strange.

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However I figured that it was a good sign that he wanted me to meet his friends so I said yes – plus I love a good pub quiz so figured if nothing else it would be a laugh.

 

So off we went to the pub and I was greeted by his mates and quiz team, they were all really lovely and made me feel very welcome – which is more than what can be said for my date for the evening. He spent 30 minutes not looking up from his phone or taking part in the conversation, to say I was put out is putting it mildly.

 

After what seemed like forever, Mikey called me over and advised that he had been texting his friend and that she’d just found out she was pregnant and that the guy didn’t want to know and that he had to leave immediately (if not sooner). I was of course totally understanding, if not a little bit put out, especially when he turned round to all of his mates and said quiz team and announced that he would be leaving and if it would be ok if they all “looked after me” CRINGE!

my-reaction-when-I-get-into-an-argument-with-women-homer-simpson-hide-in-bush-disappears

At this point I thought fuck it! I went to the bar, ordered a bottle of wine and decided that I was going to have a great night.

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We proceeded to win the prize for the best quiz name and also won the quiz – who knew! Ha! I got along famously with Mikey’s mates and they all proclaimed that even if we didn’t work out, they’d love to see me again – just lovely.

 

They dropped me off home and I concluded I’d had a great night and was hopeful that Mikey would be in touch to (at the very least) apologise. True to form I woke up the next day to receive a text from Mikey – I opened it up and read with jaw on the floor – I can dress it up, add a funny anecdote or put my own spin on it… however for now… I think its best you just read it for yourself…

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Hey, I want to apologise for leaving you last night, thankfully my friend is ok so that’s a relief. So I wanted to drop you a note to say that it was really nice to meet you, however whilst I don’t see anything romantic happening between us, my friends all loved you and would love you to become a permanent addition to the quiz team… and I agree – what do you think?!”

 

Yup! #FML

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Dating 101** Eight texts that cover off Sydney dating experiences

A typical Mars Vs Venus scenario that reigns true when dating a Sydney-sider (based on means tested situations with Sydney based guys and gals)

 

Dual thought process after a first date that wasn’t a complete disaster:

 

Girl:

I really like him, he was such a gentleman, we really had the spark

dbltwrk

Guy:

 

Damn I held the door open for her and still didn’t get laid

flynn

 

Dual thought process the day after:

 

Girl:

I definitely think I’ll hear from him, he said that “when we hang out again” and he was talking about his family and asking loads of questions

girl

Guy:

 

Hmmm do I want pizza or Mexican for dinner today?!

MmnIjQa

After neither has got a text after 3 days:

Girl:

 

What if he got his phone stolen? What if he got on with me SO well that he’s freaked out and backed off? What if his memory got erased off his phone and now he has no way of contacting me?

bmh

Guy:

 

Huh, maybe I’ll drop her a text

homer

After receiving first text after first date:

 

Girl:

I knew we had chemistry, I’m so excited for him to take me out again. He’s so not like the other guys I’ve been with!

fun

Guy:

 

Boom she text back, the 3 day rule always works! Now maybe I’ll get laid on date 2!

wic

Text to friends as they’re on their way to date two

 

Girl:

 

I’m so excited, I wore a nice skirt to show off my legs and covered up my cleavage as I don’t want to give too much away, I’m totally wearing natural make-up that took me 3 hours to do! Wish me luck!

pary

Guy:

 

Fingers crossed she’s showing off her tits, they’re awesome!

ybrws

During date:

 

Girl:

 

He’s being so nice to me, I might even stay over

dance-splits

Guy:

 

She’s pretty fit, hopefully she’ll want to put out

sandy

The next morning:

 

Girl:

On my god, he is the best person ever! I’m totally going to be with him. There were fireworks, chemistry it’s all so romantic!

happy

Guy:

 

Boom!

bml

A week later:

 

Girl:

 

Can’t believe he’s not text or called, if he’s not into me the least he can do is just tell me rather than go AWOL… I’m a big girl. Urrghhh I hate men!

tupac

Guy:

 

To another girl: “So when are you going to let me take you out babe?”

Boring

What my friends have to say on the matter…

prbc

Feature 101** Australia, the doctor will see you now

Scrubs and stethoscopes are getting Aussie hearts racing, with doctors and nurses topping the charts of Australia’s favourite uniform wearing professionals, according to a new survey* commissioned by Uniformdating.com.

 

A quarter of Aussies said males in their medical garb were their favourite. The medical theme continues, with a third of respondents preferring their females in a nurse’s uniform, proving that Aussies hold their health professionals in high regard.

 

This research is released as Uniformdating.com, a bespoke online dating service, launches in Australia today to connect men and women in uniform with the people who appreciate them.

 

Brand Manager for Uniformdating.com, Amy Coles, said relationships with uniformed professionals sometimes struggled due to long hours, but Aussies would be hard pressed to find a more trustworthy and compassionate partner.

 

“Service men and women have a common problem, with almost a quarter telling us they’ve seen a relationship end because of long working hours.

 

“Uniformdating.com is here to help find strong people – both uniformed and not – who are special enough to enter a relationship with an Aussie hero,” said Ms Coles.

 

“Our survey found that a third of Aussies believe that service men and women look unapproachably tough in their uniforms, but this couldn’t be further from the truth!

 

“We asked Australian uniform wearers about their personality traits and they describe themselves as trustworthy and loyal, which is what everyone wants in a partner!”

Uniformdating.com’s survey also found that more than half of Aussies think online dating is a successful way to meet potential partners, with almost two thirds interested in a dating site that meets their individual needs.

 

The most desirable Aussies in uniform are:

 

 

Male:

  1. Doctor
  2. Firefighter
  3. Paramedic
  4. Police Officer
  5. Pilot
  6. Nurse
  7. Lifeguard
  8. Army Officer
  9. Navy Officer
  10. Airforce Officer

 

Female:

  1. Nurse
  2. Doctor
  3. Air Steward
  4. Police Officer
  5. Pilot
  6. Lifeguard
  7. Airforce Officer
  8. Army Officer
  9. Firefighter
  10. Navy Officer

 

 


Other interesting survey results include:

  • No time for love: Almost a quarter (22 per cent) of uniformed Aussies have seen a relationship end because of long work hours

 

  • In it for life: Australia’s men and women in uniform are looking for life partners  over a fleeting fling, with nine out of 10 (91 per cent) saying they are in it for the long haul – making them the ideal date for those seeking something serious

 

·         A uniform love: Australia is a nation of uniform lovers – 82 per cent of Aussies would consider entering into a relationship with a man or woman in uniform

Dating 101** We’re back!

Ok so it’s been a while since I’ve blogged on here, I figured I’ve stored up some pretty impressive gems over the past few months, along with a nice little stash of guest entries to add to the mix.

 

Having lived in Sydney for four and half years, I was starting to think that Sydney dating was a whole different kettle of fish to the rest of the world… Well, let me tell you that after a year away from Sydney throughout 2013, it isn’t! Unless I have a target on my head for moronic idiots, or people with a worrying disposition in terms of general life – it ain’t too great on t’other side of the pond either!

 

In a nutshell we have the following to update you on:

 

  • The egotistical TV presenter who left me alone at his friend’s quiz night on our first date…

 

  • The OCD letter counting (yes you read correctly) former drug addict (yup and again) who chose to reveal this little ‘trait’ on our sixth and final date…

 

  • The crazy guy of Match.com who started spouting Satanic ramblings about me being judged in my next life…

 

  • The guy who I thought seemed nice, but turned out to be renowned as the local coke head and general tool (news to me)…

 

Considering I only went on dates with six men last year… the stats aren’t looking great!

 

Well Dating 101 Sydney will be coming back with more content: recommended dating venues, first date ideas in Sydney, features on dating/ single life and much, much more!

 

I’m going to be taking a back seat when it comes to the dating blogs – think I’ve put you all through enough of that to last you a lifetime (I’ll part with the four posts I’ve alluded to above!)

 

I will however be hosting guest dating blogs and posts – so if you want to contribute, e-mail me dating101sydney@hotmail.com

 

I look forward to hearing all your feedback and sharing stories with you.

CELEBRITY 101** My week avoiding Gerard Butler

As you probably know, I like to go to the odd party or two and love living in Sydney! As a Brit who’s flown the nest, I’ve been here 5 years now and am proud to call this country home!

 

I love that I get to see Sydney from a privileged viewpoint and don’t ever take it for granted! Coming from a small working class town in the North West of England, I don’t ever forget where I come from, but am thankful for the experiences that I have been fortunate enough to be a part of since arriving here in Jan 2009.

I recently had a week that just makes living in Sydney all the more surreal, yet all the more wonderful!

I went to the Sol Beer MTV VIP party a couple of on Friday 7th March, it was a great event, fab Djs, free beer and Mexican food and a great location – what’s not to love!

 

My lovely friend and I got to talking about out ideal man… as you do! My lovely companion advised that she tends to go for blue-eyed, preppy, clean cut blondies who are ambitious and independent, as a general rule – whereas I couldn’t pinpoint my exact type without referring to an actual person – Gerard Butler – successful, British (more importanly Scottish), humble, likes a party and appears to not take himself too seriously and of course easy on the eye! We laughed at the slim chance of me meeting an A list actor and carried on with our night….

Only for me to get home and check my Facebook to see that my lovely old boss Juliet had uploaded a picture with said A-list star at The Royal Hotel in Paddington, my old local and stomping ground… no it couldn’t be… oh yes it was:

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Juliet proceeded to tell me that they had a few drinks with him throughout the course of the evening and that he was lovely, of course he bloody well was! – Cue story in the morning after’s Daily Tele’s Confidential section advising that the lovely man in question had been ‘spotted’ at The Royal in Paddington with a ‘mysterious blonde’, who was of course the lovely Juliet ! What are the chances hey?! It appears that they’re not actually as far fetched as I initially thought!

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Fast forward to the Saturday night, I had decided to go camping at The Basin instead of going to Future Festival as I was trying to be good and it was a friends birthday! The day after I found out my friend Sasha was there and had a great day – I wish I’d have known as I would’ve gone with her! After a great night camping I decided to check my phone the Sunday morning… Cue the following status from Sasha – #GREEN!

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So once is a funny story, twice is a massive coincidence right…. It gets worse…

 

 

A week of work passes by and I decided to have a chilled Friday night with my friend – I cooked dinner, we chilled in the spa, watched Sleepless in Seattle… at about 10 I decided to check my Facebook to be greeted by not one, but two of the following statuses! Yup NOT EVEN KIDDING! This is getting a bit ridiculous…

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I didn’t let this get to me, I am happy for my friends – it’s not everyday one of your friend’s gets to meet an A list star (you’d THINK!)… Plus one of my clients is based at Fox Studios and I had a meeting there later that week, so who knows, I may bump into him whilst ordering my coffee before my meeting… here’s hoping!

 

 

Roll on Saturday, I went on a boat round the harbour during the day with 20 of my friends – a lovely day. I was due to go to the VIP launch of Casablanca Bar in Double Bay, but had other plans to catch up with some girlfriends… Low and behold who was the VIP guest at the launch… oh yes that’s right – Mr Butler himself! I give up!

 

 

You’d think that after all that, I’d start to think that the powers that be are trying to tell me something – we no, not me, resilience is my middle name… how did I know that this attitude would come to bite me back in the butt..?

 

 

I was messaging a friend of mine on the Sunday morning, who was also meant to be at the Casablanca event the previous evening, I was laughing and tell her about my ‘week avoiding Gerard Butler’ she advised that she didn’t go either – we arranged to meet up, she did say she was going to Winery, but I figured I’d go for a walk along the Watson’s Bay headland and take advantage of the sunny Sydney Sunday morning… the Sunny Sydney Sunday morning didn’t last very long as a storm broke out… so I sheltered in Bondi at Trios with my lovely friend Sprite!

 

 

After a day of relaxing, I went to the cinema to watch Monuments Men, a perfect way to end a lovely weekend! The film was only ok, I decided to walk back to Pyrmont as it was a nice evening, whilst walking I noticed I had a text message from my friend Natasha who I’d been chatting to in the morning about my week, I leave you on this note, I’ll leave it to you to imagine what my reaction was…

 

So I’m walking along the street after having a big lunch with my gay friend at the winery and I notice Gerald butler is standing in front of me. He turns around and asks me to help him find somewhere to eat. So I find a quiet place on crown where it is literally dead as people have been harassing him, and we have coffee and he tells me all about this movie he is making here! I then stand up after an hour and a half and say I have to go and work and then say goodbye! Sooo random!! hahaha crazy after us texting about him this morning lol still can’t believe it 

 

NO WORDS! I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again – “Is there a camera following me around or what?!”

 

Valentine’s Day 101** Dr Nikki Goldstein – Sexologist & Relationship Expert

Dr Nikki Goldstein – Sexologist & Relationship Expert has provided Dating 101 Sydney with some great tips this Valentine’s – http://www.drnikkig.com.au
What is the best place for a first date in Sydney?
 
We are spoilt for choice in sydney between cafes and outdoor activities but the best first date I’ve experienced was a picnic in the park looking onto the Harbour Bridge followed by pizzas and cocktails at Lil Darlin in Darlinghurst. 
 
What is your ideal Valentine’s Day date venue and why?
 
I love a home cooked dinner especially by a man who does’t normally cook. Any day of the night I can go out to a restaurant but when that special man goes to all that trouble to work out how to put something in the oven it melts my heart
 
Expensive date or fun cheap??
 
Expensive dates for first dates and fun and cheap for a second. It’s important to make a strong first impression. People are dating at a faster pace these days so it really does matter to make your mark. But why not when you have shown them you can spoil them and treat them to something nice, get back the basics and show your fun side and also that you can enjoy something that doesn’t revolve around money. 
 
What can couples do to spice up their Valentine’s Day night?
 
In order to spice things up it’s important to get out of routine and do something different If you are the couple that normally go to an expensive restaurant then why not try an activity or pack a picnic or maybe there is something you have always wanted to do. It doesn’t always have to be so traditional but it’s important to do something different. 
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Dating & Valentine’s 101** Your Sydney Valentine’s guide

 ‘Romantic Dinner for 2’ at Donny’s Bar – Manly

 The welcoming and rustic new small bar that is based in Manly is the realisation of a dream for business partners, Matt Clifton & Tol Broinowski.

 Together the pair envisioned an exciting new addition to the burgeoning bar scene in the famous beachside suburb.

With Donny’s Bar, Matt and Tol hope to offer a fresh and original venue that will be a part of and support the local small bar community.

Designed by Sydney based architecture firm, Luchetti Krelle, the venue brings to life the pairs love for rustic, warm and comfortable places to enjoy the company of friends & family.

Donny’s is a two-storey, New York style loft bar that offers a selection of dumplings & Modern Australian tapas (perfect for sharing) with a slight Asian influence.

A small, local bar with a versatile offering and cosmopolitan feel, Donny’s Bar is destined to become one of Manly’s most talked about & loved destinations.

Rabbit Hole Bar & Dining

 

Celebrate Valentine’s Day this year at Rabbit Hole Bar & Dining! For $75pp enjoy a 3 course modern French fine dining meal with your loved one.

 

ENTRÉE

Scallop Carpaccio, pomegranate, tequila & black pepper

or

Ravioli, smoked mozzarella, Italian ham, herb essence

 

MAIN

Duck breast tarte tatin, goat cheese & caramelised apple

or

Salmon confit, creamed roots, orange & avocado

 

DESSERT

Tropezienne tart, raspberry & lemon sorbet

or

Salted caramel slice & ginger and Greek yoghurt ice cream

 

VEGETARIAN OPTIONS AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST

 

The Australian Heritage Hotel

 

In The Rocks, iconic pub The Australian Heritage Hotel will be showing some love to a few lucky customers with the chance to win a special Valentine’s Day in the raffle at 7pm. Hampers will include champagne, chocolates, candles and maybe something a little cheeky too.

 

The Glenmore

 

For those without someone to snuggle up to, never fear as The Glenmore is throwing a party for singles and partygoers with a DJ spinning tunes at the rooftop bar from 6pm and a lip-smacking selection of cocktails on level 1.

 

The Royal, Leichhardt

 

At The Royal in Leichhardt, couples can cosy up at The Royal Botanical restaurant with a two-course meal and glass of sparkling on arrival for just $49 per person. There will also be live music from 9.30pm, so bookings are essential to get a good spot.

 

The Seabreeze Beach Hotel in South West Rocks

 

If you’re planning a romantic getaway to treat that special someone, a trip to The Seabreeze Beach Hotel in South West Rocks could be just the ticket. The Hotel offers a wide range of comfortable and spacious rooms, all at an affordable price, making it the perfect long weekend getaway. On Valentine’s Day itself, treat yourselves to a delicious seafood platter for two and receive a complimentary bottle of wine enjoy whilst taking in the stunning ocean views.

 

For further information on any of the venues or events, visit www.wshorthotelgroup.com.au.

 

 

The Unicorn Hotel

 

Paddington’s, The Unicorn Hotel is taking tongue-in-cheek, cheesy romance to the next level this Valentine’s Day with The Serenade Sessions. Pub diners on Friday the 14th will be treated to a three-course set dinner with glass of bubbles on arrival for $45 per person…with an awkwardly hilarious twist.

 

The Unicorn staff are calling out to those that don’t take the day too seriously, inviting local romantics to make a booking prior to the night,with a special love song request for their partners. Musicians on the night will then surprise unsuspecting lovers with an impromptu and probably cringe-worthy love song serenade at their table. That loving feeling will extend throughout the venue with all time favourite rom coms to be played on the pub’s big screens and a specially produced musical soundtrack that promises to put Richard Mercer to shame. 

 

For all those loved up duos who can’t make it on the 14th, the Serenade Sessi ons will continue on for the following Wednesday evenings in February. And for all you fantastic singles out there, The Unicorn recommends you come down and play spectator for the night anyway whilst Tindering the night away. 

 

The Unicorn Serenade Sessions will take place on the evenings of Friday 14, Wednesday 19 and 26 February. Diner’s are encouraged to call the venue in advance to book a table and make serenade song requests on 9360 7994.

Arras Offers a Touch of Class with a Fun Twist this Valentine’s Day

 

Modern European fine dining restaurant, Arras, is the perfect place to treat your loved one this Valentine’s Day with a mouth-watering eight-course menu that will be a treat for the eyes as well as the taste buds.

 

The specially crafted menu features the restaurant’s signature modern twist on European dishes including Salt baked heirloom carrot, Arras crème fraiche and carrot sponge; Roast salmon, lightly marinated scallop and asparagus; and Quail, black bean, pumpkin and peanut with quail broth.

 

The refreshing Coconut, citrus, ginger, basil and lemongrass promises to cleanse the palate before the decadence of the Spiced chocolate soup, coffee and chocolate ravioli. Those without such a sweet tooth can opt for a selection from the infamous cheese trolley for $25 extra.

 

Of course a meal at Arras wouldn’t be complete without the restaurant’s handmade, show-stopping petit fours, served with tea or coffee to finish. The menu costs $115 per person and includes a glass of bubbles on arrival.

 

Arras is run by young British chefs Adam and Lovaine Humphrey, who bring with them a wealth of experience from top restaurants across Europe and Australia, including the three Michelin-starred Michel Bras in France, Heston Blumenthal’s Fat Duck and the Castle Hotel in England.

 

The restaurant comfortably seats 60 with a private dining area available on the mezzanine for 22 guests seated and 40 guests standing for a cocktail-style event. Guests will be inspired by ARRAS’s offerings off the plate too, with unique design features including a graffiti mural by Az One, aka Andy Steel, a Sydney-based graffiti artist and bespoke Paul Smith suit-fabric dining chairs.

 

The restaurant earned one hat in the Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide 2014, three hats in the Gault & Millau Guide 2014, and a star and three glasses in the Australian Gourmet Traveller 2014 Australian Restaurant Guide.

 

Arras

204 Clarence Street, Sydney

Lunch – Tuesday to Friday 12pm until 2.30pm

Dinner – Tuesday to Saturday from 6pm until 10pm

02 9283 1922

reservations@restaurantarras.com.au

functions@restaurantarras.com.au

http://www.restaurantarras.com.au

 

Merivale

 

Merivale has a range of different offers across the group including a very cute ‘Kiss for a Cocktail’ at ivy.

 

ivy Pool Club – ‘Kiss for a Cocktail’ – Lovebirds, start your night of romance night at ivy, where a kiss is legal tender. Simply pash your other half for a free Lover’s Cup cocktail for two. Pecks on the cheek excluded. Available at Palings and Pool Club between 5-7pm. Pash your partner for one complimentary share cocktail per couple.

 

est. – Four-course set menu with matching wines and a his & her gift from Jo Malone, $295.

 

Uccello – Four-course menu including a flute of Veuve Clicquot, $140.

 

Felix – Four-course menu including a flute of Ruinart Blanc de Blancs, $150.

 

Bistrode CBD – Three-course menu including a flute of NV Moët & Chandon, $140

 

Sushi e – Six-course set menu including a flute of NV Moët & Chandon, $135

 

http://merivale.com.au/whats-on/event/valentines-day2/

 

The Cottage Bar & Kitchen

Cosy up at The Cottage Bar & Kitchen for Valentine’s Day and indulge in a Banquet for 2 for $55pp. The Banquet will include the following:

         2 x Glasses of Prosecco

         Oysters ½ Dozen (choice of Sydney Rock or Pacific’s)

         Seared Scallops w Rocket, fresh fruit Vinaigrette, Pancetta

         Mushrooms Stuffed with dried fruit and grain and marinated chevre

         Rib Eye Steak

         Fairground plate, Maple candied popcorn, house made orange marshmallows, fairy floss, mini ice cream cones, mini toffee apples & peanut brittle

To celebrate the occasion, there will be a special on Veuve Clicquot  – $24/Glass, or $110/Bottle

www.thecottagebalmain.com.au

‘Breakfast At Tiffany’s’  screening at Maltesers Moonlight Cinema

Spoil your loved one this Valentines Day with a special screening of ‘Breakfast At Tiffany’s’ at the Maltesers Moonlight Cinema at Belvedere Amphitheatre in Centennial Park on February 14! Or for a great gift idea, grab some Gold Grass tickets and experience a night of luxury film and food under the stars with that special someone! Maltesers Moonlight Cinema is running until 23rd March, tickets available from moonlight.com.au

The Gallery Shop Bronte

 

The Australian, The Glenmore, The Royal and The Seabreeze Beach Hotel) and Arras

Vesta Italian

Vesta Italian is serving up $25 Italian Antipasto Picnic Platters for the month of February to tie in with Sydney Harbour Foreshore’s Month of Love. Located in the south end of Sydney’s Darling Quarter, Vesta Italian is popular for its authentic and fresh Italian cuisine. The delicious Picnic Platters will be available for couples and all diners to pick up and enjoy in Darling Quarter’s lush green parks on heart shaped picnic rugs, which will be laid out throughout the month.

 

A celebration of love, the month will be filled with entertainment, including movies from Wednesday through Saturday nights for the first two weeks and special Mardi Gras parades and shows for the second half of February.

 

Choose from platters of cured meats, gourmet cheeses, tasty olives and pickled vegetables, all served with fresh bread and a selection of bread sticks and crackers.

 

For more information on Vest a Italian or to order a Picnic Platter, http://www.vestaitalian.com.au / 9267 9644 / facebook.com/vestadarlingquarter

Vaucluse House Tearooms

This Valentine’s Day enjoy a romantic dining experience at the enchanting Vaucluse House Tearooms.

Fresh Catering is delighted to announce an exclusive dining experience for Valentine’s Day at Vaucluse House Tearooms. Enjoy a special three course dinner created by Executive Chef, Marco Adler and immerse yourself in the charming art deco Tearooms, surrounded by the peaceful gardens of the historic estate.

The menu includes for entrée; Beetroot Tart Tartin, Red Wine Reduction & Horseradish Crème Fraiche; Green Gazpacho with Pickled Spanner Crab Ravioli & Harissa Oil or Jamon with Grilled Asparagus, Crispy Quail Eggs & Saffron Shallots.

For mains, couples can choose from; Crispy Barramundi, Fritto Flowers of Prawn & Scallop with Tomato & Tarragon; Chicken Pave, Corn & Buttermilk Bread Sauce & Snow Pea & Crispy Skin or Saffron Risotto with Broad Beans, Pine & Enoki Mushrooms, Miso Butter.

Desserts include; Torta Di Verona – Amaretto & Pandoro, Blueberries & Mascarpone Cream; Passionfruit Charlotte, Strawberry & Orange Salad or Rose & Watermelon Macaron.

$75 per person. Reservations are essential and are available from 6.30pm. To make a reservation please contact Fresh Catering on (02) 8399 3055 (business hours) or email reception@freshcatering.com.au.

Emmilou

 

Emmilou has earned a reputation for exceptional tapas and cocktails and a wonderful ambience for a romantic setting.

 

This Valentines Day we will be offering a decadent 5-course menu including a glass of champagne for $95pp.

Emmilou has always been a favourite on Valentines day and this year, our new head chef will be stepping up the menu to ensure it is a seamlessly romantic evening for your users.

 

Our new head chef, Gary Ryley recently took over the reins as head chef at Emmilou. Ryley’s passion for Spain, coupled with his time spent overseas has helped him make his mark at Emmilou in fine-tuning the menu to perfection.

 

To view our Valentines Day offer and other promotions updated regularly on the blog, visit: http://emmilou.c om.au/blog/

The Morrison Bar & Oyster Room

 

Book a Valentine’s Day lunch or dinner at The Morrison and receive a complimentary Love Potion cocktail. The Morrison is a stylish, authentic New York style brasserie in the heart of Sydney’s CBD.

225 George St, Sydney

www.themorrison.com.au

 

Bishop Sessa

 

Bishop Sessa is a charming bistro and wine bar located in the heart of vibrant Surry Hills. Chef Paul Cooper is a sustainability advocate and applies a nose to tail philosophy to Bishop Sessa’s food going as far as ageing and butchering large sides of pig, beef and lamb on site himself. An ‘urban gem’, Bishop Sessa serves up fantastic, creative food in an unpretentious and accessible way. 

 

Bishop Sessa is offering both a lunch and a dinner menu for Valentines Day:

 

Valentine’s Day Lover’s Lunch, four courses, $49

A glass of Jean-Pierre Marniquet Chaine d’Etoiles Brut Reserve, Tours-sur-Marne, Champagne on arrival

Fresh shucked Tathra Rock Oysters, mignonette dressing

Scallop ceviche, cucumber, avocado, lemon & ginger beer sorbet

Roasted Aylesbury duck breast, honey spiced beetroot, lentils & cassis

Bittersweet chocolate tart, honeycomb, salted caramel ice cream

 

Valentine’s Day Dinner, 5 courses, $75 (with matching wines, additional $50pp)

Smoked Trout Rillettes, asparagus mousse, confit fennel& hazelnuts

Scallop ceviche, cucumber, avocado, lemon & ginger beer sorbet

Hay-baked Pork Belly, roast peach, fennel, radish & cress

Lamb Mixed grill, pomme puree, eggplant, red peppers, mustard seeds

Chocolate delight, chocolate mousse, apricots & macadamias

 

527 Crown Street, Surry Hills

www.bishopsessa.com.au

02 8065 7223

 

 

MONTH OF LOVE AT DARLING HARBOUR


ROW YOUR WAY TO ROMANCE

A truly unique chance to circle the bay in a rowboat made for two as the sun sets over Darling Harbour and magical, twinkling hearts decorate the surface of the water. Pre-book online or go to Darling Harbour Marina (in front of Cockle Bay Wharf) to board your love boat.

Where Cockle Bay
When Sat 1, Wed 5 – Sun 9 and Wed 12 – Sun 16 Feb, 6pm – 10pm
Cost $25 per boat
https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/row-your-way-to-romance-tickets-10180605465

 

LOVED UP FIREWORKS

Cosy up to your baby and stare into the sky as heart-shaped fireworks burst over Cockle Bay on Saturday.

Want your love to go the extra mile? Say it in the sky or even pop the question with specially personalised fireworks.

Where Cockle Bay

When Sat 1 Feb, Wed 5 – Sat 8 Feb, Wed 12 – Sat 15 Feb, Sat 22 Feb and Sat 1 Mar, 9pm
Cost Saturday fireworks – FREE / personalised fireworks – $1,000
https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/romance-infused-fireworks-tickets-10181353703

 

LOVE IS IN THE AIR

Stop by Darling Harbour’s giant sparkling red heart to steal a kiss or grab a Valentine’s photo. Post your photo to social media and share your love around the world.

Where Palm Grove

When Sat 1 Feb – Sat 1 Mar, from dusk
Cost FREE!

 

 

LOVE IS IN THE AIR – FRAMED!
Who doesn’t love the chance to be cheeky in an instant photo? For one very special night only (Valentine’s of course) you can capture the moment your heart went pop in our Month of Love Fotobooth. Pucker up, pose, print and then post to social media to your heart’s content.

Where Palm Grove (in front of the Love is in the Air giant heart)
When Fri 14 Feb, 6pm – 8pm
Cost FREE!

 

 

 

LEAVE A MESSAGE OF LOVE

Wander down the ‘Avenue of Love’ from Harbourside and chalk a public message of love on the Darling Harbour Live hoardings. Quote a poem, declare your love or perhaps even pop the question!

Where Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre Forecourt
When Early Feb – Sat 1 Mar / 24 hours
Cost FREE!

 

 

SMOOTHFM LOVE SONG SERENADE
Take a stroll with your sweetheart along Sydney’s most romantic bridge and be serenaded by the world’s smoothest love songs and dance moves to follow.

Where Pyrmont Bridge

When Sat 1 Feb – Sat 1 Mar (excluding 16 Feb) / from 6pm

Cost FREE!

 

 

LOVE ON THE ROOFTOPS

Take a moment and take in the view of the hearts and rainbow projections on the rooftop of the Australian National Maritime Museum.

Where Australian National Maritime Museum

When Fri 14 Feb – Sat 1 Mar, from dusk
Cost FREE!

 

SUPERCHARGE MY LOVE

Hit the road with your baby for a dazzling super car dream date! Spend $10 or more in Darling Harbour at participating venues anytime during the Month of Love and you’ll go into the draw to win one of 25 super car dates. See the super cars on display around Cockle Bay Wednesdays and Thursdays between 4pm and 11pm.

 

Where Around Cockle Bay

When Sat 1 Feb – Sat 1 Mar, cars on show every Wed & Thurs from 4pm -11pm

Cost FREE to view Supercars OR spend $10 for your chance to win a super car date* conditions apply

 

 

ROSES ARE RED

Go one better than a dozen red roses and dine among hundreds of roses woven in the foliage surrounding the restaurants at Cockle Bay Wharf. Come back again and again and watch the roses grow!

Where Cockle Bay Wharf

When Sat 1 Feb – Sat 1 Mar / 24 hours

Cost FREE!

 

TICKLE ME PINK
Spread out a blanket or pick up a heart-shaped rug and snuggle up to watch the special Month of Love Luminous displays or a classic romantic film on the Village Green. Purchase a gourmet picnic platter or pack your own picnic basket. Catch the special ‘loved-up’ hearts display from 1-14 February (excluding Mondays) and the beautiful rainbow display from 15 February – 1 March.

Purchase a romantic antipasto picnic platter for two from Vesta Darling Quarter (9267 9644), which includes cured meats, cheeses, olives, marinated vegetables and bread for $28 or pack your own picnic basket (please note alcohol is not permitted to be brought into Darling Harbour).

Where Darling Quarter Village Green

When Sat 1 Feb – Sat 1 Mar, dusk – midnight / Film screenings 8pm, 5–8 Feb, 12–15 Feb, 19–22 Feb and 26 Feb – 1 Mar
Cost FREE!

 

ANIMAL LOVE

Celebrate love at WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo by giving special treats to the animals, learning about animal romantics; crafting a Valentine’s Day card and more! Did you know crocodiles blow love bubbles to their potential mates, the male koala woos his lady with a loud bellow and male satin bowerbirds attract females by collecting blue items for their bowers? These are just a few fun love facts you’ll learn during our special Month of Love keeper talks.

 

Where Wild Life Sydney Zoo

When Sat 1 Feb – Fri 28 Feb

Cost Inclusive in Wild Life Sydney Zoo entry – Adult $40 / Child $25 / Concession $31.50 / Family 4 $130

 

LOVE-IN

Get free entry to all special performances during the Month of Love and enjoy two signature Love Potion cocktails for $20.
www.tokiohotelive.com.au 
facebook.com/tokiohotel

Where Tokio Hotel

When Sat 1 Feb – Sat 1 Mar

Cost FREE!

 

A TOUR OF LOVE

Discover love in the Australian National Maritime Museum through a guided tour of the permanent exhibitions to uncover real-life love stores. Tours held daily.

 

Where Australian National Maritime Museum

When Sat 1 Feb – Fri 28 Feb

Cost Adult $27/ Child $16/ Concession $16/ Family $70

 

CHILDREN’S VALENTINES CRAFT

Get creative and craft a Valentine’s Day card made out of recycled paper and share the love with one of Wild Life World’s Aussie animals!

Where Wild Life Sydney Zoo

When Sat 1 Feb – Fri 28 Feb

Cost Inclusive in Wild Life Sydney Zoo entry – Adult $40 / Child $25 / Concession $31.50 / Family 4 $130

 

VALENTINES NIGHT WITH THE STARS

Walk the red-carpet, sip champagne, enjoy a selection of pre and post dinner canapés PLUS lots more at Madame Tussaud’s memorable Valentines event at Darling Harbour.

 

Where Madame Tussauds Sydney

When Fri 14 Feb

Cost $120 per couple (valued at $236)

 

ULTIMATE CELEBRITY VALENTINES

At Madame Tussauds you can vote for your ultimate celebrity Valentine. The winner will be revealed on Valentine’s Day!

 

Where Madame Tussauds Sydney

When Sat 1 – Thu 13 Feb

 

PLAN YOUR PERFECT DAY… WITH CELEBRITY WEDDING PLANNER PRESTON BAILEY

Celebrity event and wedding designer Preston Bailey will share the secrets of his global success. With clients including Oprah Winfrey, Donald Trump, Michael Douglas, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Jennifer Hudson and Joan Rivers, Preston is known for completely transforming spaces into opulent, theatrical environments.

 

Where Cockle Bay Wharf

When Wed 12 Feb/ 5pm & 7pm

Cost $95 – book signing, bridal showcase and champagne/canapés OR $195 – also includes presentation by Preston Bailey www.premier.ticketek.com.au

 

TEST YOUR COMPATIBILITY

Test your love compatibility with gelato at Meno Diciotto! Research by Dr. Alan R. Hirsch, Smell & Taste Treatment and Research Foundation in Chicago say that flavour can predict your perfect match! www.personalityquiz.net/foodtests/icecream.htm

 

Where Meno Diciotto, Darling Quarter

When Sat 1 Feb – Sat 1 Mar

 

OPEN DAY OF LOVE

Dockside Group showcases three spectacular reception venues overlooking Darling Harbour.

Where Three locations – Dockside, L’Aqua & Star room

When Sun 16 Feb / 10am – 4pm

Cost FREE!

 

JOIN HANDS FOREVER IN WAX

Join hands with your partner at Madame Tussauds and experience the magic of wax-making together with a special keep-sake to take home.

 

Where Madame Tussauds Sydney

When Sat 1 – Fri 28 Feb

Cost $15 (usually $25)

 

BOWL ME OVER

Enjoy one game of bowling per person, one drink on arrival (local tap beer, house wine or soft drink) and a platter to share (10 pieces) for just $40 per couple. Pre-bookings essential, must mention ‘Month of Love’. Not valid with any other offer or promotion, subject to availability.

 

Where Kingpin Bowling, Harbourside

When Sat 1 – Fri 28 Feb

Cost $40 per couple

 

POP-UP BRIDE

Immerse yourself in Chinese Wedding culture in 20 minute participatory performances at The Twilight Gardens, Chinese Gardens. Bookings essential, $25 ticket and price includes garden entry, Asian noodle box and a glass of wine.

 

Where The Twilight Gardens, Chinese Gardens.

When 7 Feb / 6pm – 9pm

Cost $25 

Valentines 101** FANCY A VALENTINE’S DAY DATE?

phone-hotspots

Fancied, an Australian based dating App, has been moving in quickly on the dating scene and hopes to make it easier for Australians to find a date this Valentine’s Day! Having only launched in September last year, the App already boasts thousands of mutual ‘fancies’ nationally, and was nominated as Top 10 finalist for Startup of the Year by Shoestring Media, and for a MOBI Award in the Nightlife category.

Entrepreneur Christie Sharpe, the Founder and CEO of Fancied, stated “We are thrilled with the results and have 60% engagement on the app, this is mainly because users are getting matched by people they mutually fancy.”

phone-match

Thanks to the rise of mobile dating, Gen X and Y users have now ‘opened their hearts’ (#boomchh) to testing out the market and have made it socially acceptable. Sharpe adds, “Fancied is about finding mutual connections made easy in a social environment – We don’t just show you who you can meet, we also show you where the best places are to meet based on your location.”

There are two ways you can find your perfect match on Fancied. Firstly, by searching through singles profiles, and secondly, by checking into a local venue listed as a Hot Spot.

DSC_8238

The geo-location gives the user a safer opportunity to meet their match at a recommended bar, or alternatively, motivates singles to step out of the house and socialise as they can see which ‘Hot Spots’ to saunter over to.

The Fancied team have launched a new blog (www.blog.getfancied.com) which explores all aspects of dating and meeting people online. This light-hearted blog is perfect for dating advice, lists funny dating experiences and different ways to approach your love life. The step-by- step guide to the perfect New Year’s Kiss helped ease users into 2014 and is set to help singles navigate through the Aussie dating scene.

Fancied is available for free from the App Store on iPad, iPhone and iPod touch or at:

http://bit.ly/16MgPjC

Socialising made simple, download the app and Get Fancied!

Android version coming soon!

Valentines 101** Bucket List Loves Tinder

With Christmas, New Years and Australia Day celebrations all safely behind us, just when we thought our social lives were back to normal, Valentine’s Day comes up to pinch us on the behind.

 

No date? Don’t worry! The Bucket List is teaming up with Tinder to host a Valentines Day party on Friday 14th of February. Patrons will receive a complementary glass of champagne on arrival when they present their Tinder App at the Door, and $10 ‘It’s a Match’ cocktails will be available all night.

 

For those of you who have been living under a rock (or are in a relationship). Tinder is a location-based dating app which highlights fellow singles in your area. The Bucket List will become

Tinder destination, with a push notification prompting users to head to the Bondi, beachside venue.

 

Screen Shot 2014-02-05 at 1.11.57 pm

It’s a Date at Marquee This February

 

 

Marquee Sydney’s hearty line up of talent this February includes hip-hop supremo J Cole, swoon-worthy female duos NERVO and The Twins, and G-Wizard, who is hosting special Valentine’s Day celebrations including a $1000 best dressed couple prize.

 

Saturday 1 February will see Melbourne-born and bred DJ and producer Andy Murphy kicking off the month at Marquee. Signed and touring with Australia’s biggest club brand and label Onelove, Murphy’s signature magnetic acoustic arrangements are sure to pull a crowd.

 

Starring on Channel Seven’s Beauty and the Geek, Marquee welcomes The Twins on Friday 7 February. Hitting the club scene in 2011, party girls Brooke and Ellie’s debut track Body featuringIsrael Cruz landed in the top 20 charts. With a newly-released single Coming Home, there’s no slowing down for this dynamic duo.

 

Hailing from London, DJ MYNC will hit Marquee’s decks on Saturday 8 February. Along with mixing official remixes for Avicii, MYNC is the owner of dance music record label Cr2 Records. Featuring guest mixes from Laidback Luke and Thomas Gold, the station is broadcasted to over 12 million listeners in over 30 countries.

 

Love will be in the air on Friday 14 February as Marquee favourite G-Wizard romances the crowd at a special ‘Marquee Prom Night’ with tunes such as his new single Checkmate! featuring Snoop Dogg and Wiz Kalifa. For those love birds looking for that special someone, Marquee is giving $1000 to the best dressed couple – the perfect excuse to find your match on cupid’s night of nights.

 

Back by popular demand, NERVO– Australian sisters Mim and Liv will have the dance floor jumping when they return to Marquee with their electro-house beats on Saturday 15 February. Based in London, the duo have co-written smash singles for Ke$ha and David Guetta’s and Kelly Rowland’sGrammy-winning track When Love Takes Over; plus worked with DJ powerhouses Afrojack andSteve Aoki.

 

Marquee is excited to host rapper J Cole as part of his Australian tour on Friday 21 February. The first artist signed to Jay-Z’s Roc Nation label, Cole has made his mark as a star rap lyricist, with two no. 1 albums, platinum hit Work Out and new single Born Sinner.

 

Dutch-born Aussie resident MaRLo’s tech-fused sounds will have party goers’ in a trance on Saturday 22 February, his recent anthem Boom hitting no. 3 on the Beatport chart.

 

Crowned as one of Australia’s best live performance DJs, Mark Pellegrini will add to the circus on Friday 28 February with a special Carnival Set, to match Marquee’s carnival-themed Boom Box for the night, where feather-clad hosts and fun Rio-inspired drinks are sure to get revellers in the party spirit.

 

DATES FOR THE CALENDAR:

Date Talent Cover
Saturday 1 February Andy Murphy $25
Friday 7 February The Twins $15
Saturday 8 February MYNC $25
Friday 14 February G-Wizard $15
Saturday 15 February NERVO $25
Friday 21 February J Cole $15
Saturday 22 February MaRLo $25
Friday 28 February Mark Pellegrini $15
Sat 1 March TBA $25

 

Selected pre-sale tickets available via Moshtix. Marquee is located at The Star Sydney, harbourside entry via Pirrama Road, Pyrmont NSW 2009. To book table service, please contact:tables@marqueesydney.com. For further information on Marquee, visit www.marqueesydney.com or call 02 9657 7737.