Gary Brun

Gary is a freelance writer based in Sydney, who does regular write-ups for Concrete Playground on venues including pubs, restaurants, bars and cafes. He has two published novels and spends all his free time and money travelling the world.

Favourite bar in Sydney: This is a tough one, but if I had to choose just one bar, it'd be Shady Pines. I've been visiting since the week it opened. The place has everything: good service, amazing music, rock-solid drinks and free peanuts.

Restaurants

Restaurant
Unabara Lobster & Oyster Bar

287 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne

A Melbourne seafood restaurant with Japanese flair — pair your lobster and oyster platters with plum wine and sake.

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Restaurant
Simon's Peking Duck Chinese Restaurant

197B Middleborough Road, Box Hill South

Simon says: try the peking duck.

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Restaurant
Two Fat Indians

84 Bemersyde Drive, Berwick

Get the banquet for a feast of classic curries or try some of the more experimental creations on the a la carte menu.

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Restaurant
Curry Cafe Northcote

73 High Street, Northcote

Nothing on the menu sparking joy? Chat to the chefs and they'll make something up just for you.

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Restaurant
Curry Vault Indian Restaurant and Bar Melbourne

18-20 Bank Place, Melbourne

This casual CBD haunt doesn't compromise on fun nor generous portions.

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Restaurant
Shanghai Street

146-148 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne

One of our very favourite Chinatown haunts that's a must for xiaolongbao lovers.

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Restaurant
Bowltiful

382-384 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne

Home to one of the best beef noodle soups in town.

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Restaurant
Red Emperor Chinese Restaurant

131 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne

A traditional Chinese ambience for your next dine-in experience.

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Restaurant
Tao Tao House

815 Glenferrie Road, Hawthorn

Home to some of the best yum cha in Melbourne.

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