Mareblu

It’s different, and a culinary experience, Les, and I acknowledge it’s not for everyone. The elements involved in each very individual dish are complex, and I’m certain, demand incredible patience in creating what are essentially unique flavours. It’s certainly not what we’d all describe as comfort food on a cold and rainy day such as here in Canberra right now, but it left me wanting more. That’s perfect food for me.

A sample if Chef David’s craft at Sandbar above

They’re atmospheric

I'm so glad you had lovely company. Julie and Rolf, Mario and I agree with you. We've been twice, each time an exceptional experience. I've started hinting again, lol. I have some photos somewhere, I'll post one or two later.

Thanks for the wrap, and for posting the menu, Les. It's a shame the wines weren't treated with respect, especially since the winemakers personnel were in attendance. Torbreck's "Woodcutters" is a very popular red at our golf club. Haven't been to dine there for a while but meeting friends for dinner tomorrow night, so I hope it's still on the list. I agree with you: I cannot tolerate warmish white wine. I like it crisp and very cool, preferably so cool the glass is frosted. The menu looks really enticing, but if you're going to pay that amount, "Sandbar" in Quays Hotel/Motel at the Bay works out about the same, for a special occasion. Apparently people are travelling from Sydney and spending the night at the Bay just to dine there. It is exquisite, offering Japanese-French fusion. The presentation is exceptional. Disclaimer: it's a cruise or a dining experience, at these prices😜

It's many years since we tried Doyles takeaway, and the fare was really good, but a lot can change over time. If the reviews are consistently awful, then I would be put off too. It's not so long since we visited Doyle's main Watsons Bay restaurant with friends, and although expensive, the seafood was delicious. However, I've also read mixed reviews for that restaurant, so I guess it's the experience on the day, and that can change depending on who's in the kitchen at the time. I think Covid has greatly influenced many eateries.

We will be sailing on QE from Barcelona to Sydney in October. Your choice of attire for gala evenings, Emmandjay, is precisely what I'll be wearing. Enjoy your cruise.

That’s true. Manly has a lot to offer to while away some time, although last time we were there (just before Covid hit) it had become a little commercial touristy. Wonderful old Steins pub still there, a Manly institution. Memories linger of Singapore Slings sipped a lifetime ago. Manly as a choice offers the benefit of the ferry ride over the waters of beautiful Sydney harbour. There are ferry rides that will take you from Circular Quay, gliding past The bays and coves of the serenely beautiful eastern suburbs, to Watsons Bay (my choice for its history and ethereal atmosphere). If you have the time, catch another ride over to Manly, and enjoy all it has to offer. The bottom line: Sydney is beautiful.

Serene image, Les. I’m not sure if they still do takeaway fish and chips on the pier. I’m so looking forward to sailing into Sydney Harbour in November; something I’ve always wanted to do.

Leigh, when I “liked” your post about Olivia above, I didn’t mean I liked your headache. All the golden voices we’ve lost. We may all have to practise karaoke and, at least in my case, pretend we can sing. Hope you’re having a lovely time in Cairns.

Inspiring words, Lyle. Thank you for sharing. We also lost Archie Roach, an incredibly talented indigenous man with a haunting, rich voice.

The restaurant is indeed exceptional; although menu prices, unfortunately, are reflective of its evolution as an iconic seafood experience. I was thinking more of the hotel itself, with its rich watering-spot history. If those walls could only talk…

Thank you, Don. I have an advantage: a BA in Professional Writing. I have a legion of exceptional uni lecturers and tutors who deserve the credit. Writing is my passion.

Doyle’s is not just a location. Just the mention transports me to the wonders of a youth spent in Sydney before it evolved to the tourist hub of today. Doyle’s Watsons Bay, Coogee Bay Hotel, Bronte Charles, and all the surf clubs along that stretch of ethereal magic. The Gap, that haunting space of tragedy and beauty, with the intuitive dogs alert to desperate lives, and the terrible tales of shipwrecks of another era. Watsons Bay can fill a lifetime of visits, and Doyle’s has been history’s sentinel.

Wow, thanks Les. That will be next on our list. "Our House" is similarly gripping, right up there with "Line of Duty". I assume you've seen "Vigil", the suspense drama about the British submarine of the same name operating out of Scotland. Fantastic plot line and acting. The only problem with all these superb dramas is the let down you feel when they finish. Next meet-up, I'll tell you why I asked which years you were at Darlinghurst.

Thank you for those years, and all the others you served.

Which years were you at Darlinghurst, Les?

Toughest posting in the land, especially in the 60s, I think, Les

Thank heavens they all survived, but hospital stays of that duration would seem to indicate grave injuries, I fear. Thanks for keeping us posted, Lyle🙏🏻

What’s the male equivalent of tart?

Right on all counts, Les. Endless variety of content on YT. Fox Binge is great for Brit crime shows; presently enthralled by the gripping “Our House”, and the Sam Neil production “Twelve”, in which he also stars is really good.

You can bank on it

It really depends on your viewing tastes. We particularly love the British detective shows and mysteries, travel and cooking programmes. Fox caters for those, and Netflix has some great movies.

Good for current shows, apparently