Cafe Sydney: Sydney, NSW, Australia

Located on the fifth floor of the Customs House, we were seated on the patio, with a clear view looking across to the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Fanning myself with an accordion-fold paper fan provided alongside the napkins and flatware for all patrons seated outside, I hardly noticed the jet lag since my arrival in Australia just two hours earlier.

Sydney Rock oysters and Pacific oysters served with a eschallot and caramelised cabernet vinegar and fresh lemon wedges were a delicious and delicate start to our meal as we decided on drinks.

The extensive cocktail menu offered many choices of drinks both familiar favorites as well as more regional specialities. I opted first for a honey vodka, lychee, peach drink. Then, on the waiter's recommendation, I tried the "Bohemian Mule," a citron vodka, Sake & Bohemian Absinthe concoction, infused with fresh ginger, coriander root and fresh lime juice, and a touch of ginger rum. It wasn't as strong as it sounds, and tasted of licorice, mint and citrus-- delicious!

My appetizer of seared sea scallops with beetroot, preserved lemon, pomegranate and celery leaves served with a smear of babaganoush, was light and spicy. Seafood was what I remembered most about my last visit to Sydney, and this plate did not disappoint.

Too bad I could not say the same for my pear, roquefort, radicchio, walnut and watercress salad, which was much too spicy. Large crushed peppercorn overpowered the leafy greens and the lighter fruit flavor that should have complimented the robust and aromatic soft cheese.

Ultimately the beautiful view, comfortable patio, polite and proper wait-staff, and leisurely yet sophisticated atmosphere made my flawed main course forgivable. We will return another time, with empty stomachs, to order the dessert platter, which looked like a meal all its own.

http://www.cafesydney.com/