1908 Cronulla

Don't be fooled by the last-century name, because 1908 Cronulla is as contemporary as they come. Hands down one of the more stunning venues in southern Sydney, this ivy-covered, high-ceilinged, glass-fronted building is a popular choice for weddings in the area. It's also a great place to go for a sophisticated dinner or drinks.

Like many restaurants in Cronulla, 1908 celebrates its coastal proximity through a seafood-heavy menu. Tuna is served as a charred tataki with coriander butter and an elegant buckwheat and leek risotto and and the oysters come with a trio of garnishes: natural, prik nam pla (a sweet, spicy Thai dressing), and jalapeño mornay. If you're after something heartier, the steak frites is rubbed in pastrami spices and served with curried sauce.

Make sure to accompany your meal with one of the options from the exceptional cocktail menu. To match the sophisticated setting, order the Champagne for Mixologists, which combines Veuve Clicquot Rich with grapefruit, cucumber, lime, ginger and cold tea. It will set you back $110, but then, this place is all about indulgence.