Everywhere good to eat in Potts Point

With not a Greek restaurant cliche in sight, owner and chef Jonathan Barthelmess’ The Apollo stays true to traditional Greek fare while using the freshest Australian produce.

Housed in an art deco building with a contemporary, converted warehouse vibe, this place is always buzzing. There are often long queues at dinner time, so be sure to get in early.

Start off with classic Taramasalata, also known as mullet roe dip, which is creamy, smooth, and absolutely delicious. If you’re a fan of lemony and light, the Wild weed and cheese pie is a must-try. And don’t forget to make room for dessert, the walnut filo pastry is perfectly flaky and a great way to end.

Dish Cult’s top pick: Wild weed and cheese pie ($20)

Leave Sydney behind at Franca Brasserie, where a marble-fronted open kitchen, teal leather booths, brass rails and glowing lights will have you thinking you’re in Paris.

Executive chef Jose Saulog has created a menu which is like a love letter to France and its nearby Mediterranean neighbours, and there’s a strong wine list and inventive cocktails to make sure you have a fabulous time.

The à la carte menu makes the most of Sydney’s excellent seafood, as well as a choice of the world’s best caviars. There’s plenty to interest meat-lovers too, with the Wagyu bavette, oxtail and cabbage raviolo an absolute stand-out.

Dish Cult’s top pick: Wagyu bavette, oxtail and cabbage raviolo, watercress ($56)

Still in the French end of Potts Point, Macleay St. Bistro continues to draw in the crowds, even though it’s been here for over 30 years, and for good reason too.

Head chef Tom Williams’ à la carte menu and lengthy list of daily blackboard specials feature old-school classics often with a modern Australian twist.

The atmosphere feels special, but the service is friendly and considerate. Start with the legendary French onion soup, made even more delicious with Comte cheese. Move onto the Steak frites with rocket, green pear salad and a green peppercorn sauce and finally, tuck into the Dark chocolate fondant with a white chocolate centre and raspberry sorbet, for a tangy offset to an indulgent dessert.

Dish Cult’s top pick: Pan seared scallops with cauliflower puree and hazelnut butter ($34)

Sipping on a Tel Aviv Betida cocktail in a Byzantine-inspired courtyard at Ezra really works to make you feel like you have been transported to the heart of Israel.

Head chef Niro Richard’s menu is inspired by the Tel Aviv food scene; expect family-style dining with small snacks, salads, and larger charcoal-grilled dishes.

A sample menu might start with Fresh hummus, tomato resek and fried chickpeas. For mains, the Baharat roast chicken with garlic yoghurt and apricots is a must-try. And for dessert, a wonderfully sticky Baklava ice cream sandwich. Whatever you go with, the punchy flavours of the Middle Eastern cuisine here are well worth your time.

Dish Cult’s top pick: Barramundi, chickpea miso, parsley and tahini sauce ($44)

Sonora, named after the coastal state in Mexico which shares a border with the US, is one cool place. It’s funky and elegant with soft comfy bench seating and a slide show exhibit of modern Mexican photography.

Head chef Juan Carlos’ menu is Mexican fare with an international flavour. Begin with the tuna ceviche with soy, finger lime, avocado, and a side of tortilla chips for a fresh and flavourful starter that’s perfect to share.

The focus here however is on Tacos Chingones (or as Sonora tells us “bad-ass tacos”), where wheat tortillas replace the typical maize wrapping and feature generous helpings of grilled fish, broiled mushroom or carne asada if that tickles your fancy.

Wash it all down with a hearty selection of tequila and organic mezcal. Salud!

Dish Cult’s top pick: Tasmanian octopus zarandeado ($38)