My Gran's Chocolate Slice

Whilst I love getting out and about, every now and then I simply feel like staying home. There's (mostly) nothing better than sipping tea on the couch in the afternoon sunlight and reading all the newspapers.

When I'm in this mood, nine times out of ten a batch of Gran's chocolate slice is essential. My gran started making this recipe with me when I was 10, and instilled in me a love of the kitchen that will last forever. The slices are quick, easy and delicious. I often make them when friends pop round last minute, and the tray never lasts more than a day. Never.

Ingredients:
1 Cup Brown Sugar
1 Cup Self-Raising Flour
1/2 Cup Desiccated Coconut
1 Tablespoon Cocoa
1 Egg
125 Grams Butter
1 Block Milk Chocolate

Method:
1. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Mix the sugar, flour, coconut and cocoa together in a bowl.

2. Melt the butter in the microwave, beat the egg and mix them into the dry ingredients.

3. Press the mixture into a baking tray, lined with baking paper and sprayed lightly with non-stick cooking spray.

4. Bake in the oven for 12 minutes. The slice might seem like it's not cooked properly, but trust me it is! It will firm as it cools.

5. Leave 10 minutes, then turn onto a large chopping board or tray and leave to cool.

6. When cool, break the chocolate into pieces and melt in the microwave. Pour over the slice and spread with a knife.

7. Now comes the hard part, put it in the fridge and leave to set. When the chocolate is set, take the slice out of the fridge and cut into squares. Serve at room temperature.

(But to be honest, my family demolished half the slice before I had time to do step 7).

Happy baking!

Picnic Perfection: Royal Botanic Gardens

Sydney is possibly the best place on earth for picnics. There are a million picturesque locations that are ideal for snacking on deli food and throwing around a frisbee. This weekend I headed off to the Royal Botanic Gardens, and the afternoon sun made for true picnic perfection.

After settling down on the harbour's edge we laid out some baguette, cold meat, avocado, brie, quince paste, pâté and strawberries and had the tastiest lunch out!

One of my favourite things to do is lie on my back and watch the clouds, but there were so few I contented myself with trying to spot shapes in the tree branches instead.

After eating you can wonder around and check out some pretty crazy flowers, the oriental garden, the herb garden, the rose garden and even a tropical greenhouse.

Picnic tip: always remember a couple of good knives, paper plates and serviettes (or cutting the brie becomes a serious issue).

The walk back to the car at dusk wasn't half bad either, happy picnic-ing!

More Info: http://www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/welcome/royal_botanic_garden

Grasshopper

And I'm not talking about a creepy flying insect! Grasshopper is a sneaky little small bar right in the heart of the city. It might be difficult to find (I'm not going to lie, we walked past the alleyway twice before finding it), but it's well worth a visit.

Sitting on old armchairs and other recycled furniture, sample some unusual cocktails served in various glasses, beakers and jars. The food looked pretty tasty too, although my #51 (Peruvian brandy, blueberry cordial, cranberry juice and sparkling wine) sure hit the spot!

Where: 1 Temperance Lane, Sydney 2000

When: Mon-Fri 12pm-late and Sat 4:30pm-late

Contact: (02) 9947 9025

More Info: http://thegrasshopper.com.au/

The Gift of Giving: Under $30

Everyone loves getting presents, but I have to say that the pleasure in giving a well-received gift is not quite like anything else. When someone's face lights up after opening the very thing they had hoped for, I feel incredibly happy and satisfied. Whether it's for a birthday, an anniversary or maybe for a dinner party hostess, I enjoy searching for bits and pieces that deserve a place in everyone's home.

That being said, it can be difficult to find reasonably priced items that fit the bill. I'm going to start with a few of my favourite gifts at the bank-friendly end of the scale (although you'd never know).

1. Glasshouse Miniatures: $16.95

I've personally burned my way through too many of these to count, I love switching scents every couple of weeks. They last around 20 hours and the range is delectable. The best part? They're stocked everywhere, including David Jones and Peter Alexander.

http://www.glasshousefragrances.com/

2. Mecca Cosmetica Nail Polish: $22.00

Long-lasting and chip-proof? Check. Hot colours? Check. And at the store they'll even wrap it up nicely in a little bag. I've never been met with disappointment after giving someone one of these!

http://www.meccacosmetica.com.au/

3. Kor Water Bottle: Approx $15.00

For anyone active, these stylish water bottles hold 750ml, come in a bunch of cool colours, and make staying hydrated a bit more fun. There are plenty of Australian shops that stock the brand, so no need to pay shipping online.

http://www.korwater.com/

4. Mimco Ponyholder: $29.95

Plenty of designs to choose from; I can guarantee that these are super-strong (trust me, my hair is crazy). They're guaranteed to fix a bad hair day, and can even be worn as a bracelet.

http://www.mimco.com.au/

5. The '500' Books: $19.95-24.95

These small square books are phenomenal. From 500 cookies to 500 soups, there is sure to be one to suit! You can buy them from most good bookstores.

http://www.dymocks.com.au/

The Source (of all things good)

Whilst we're on the topic of good coffee spots, I can't not mention The Source. Once again located in the café hotspot at the end of Military Road in Mosman, the coffee here is beyond brilliant.

It's a lunchtime favourite for myself and many other devotees (one of Sydney's media power couples are regulars) and when you taste one of their toasted sourdough sandwiches you'll know why. There's mustard and roast beef, egg mayo and ocean trout, and a chicken mix that has some secret ingredient which makes it truly irresistible. Happy lunching!

Where: 6/914 Military Road, Mosman 2088
When: Mon-Sat 6:30am-4:30pm and Sun 6am-4pm
Contact: (02) 9969 1368
More Info: http://www.thesourceespresso.com/about/

Pablo & Rusty's

Australia has the best coffee in the world, and although Melbourne claims to hold the gold medal, the coffee in Sydney is by no means second rate. Pablo and Rusty's, conveniently located just next to Gordon train station on Sydney's upper north shore, brews a fine cup and serves some excellent snacking material (think fresh baked muffins).

Whilst the coffee is good, I must say I normally give in to temptation and go for their Iced Chai, so much goodness in one cup!

It's the perfect meeting place for a catchup with friends, and I love getting out of the city and seeing all the birds. Last visit I had the pleasure of cockatoos, rainbow lorikeets and pink galahs!

Where: 1 St Johns Avenue, Gordon 2072
When: Mon-Sat 6am-5pm and Sun 8am-3pm
Contact: (02) 9499 8442
More Info: http://www.pabloandrustys.com.au/index.php

Baroque.

Having studied in Paris for an extended period in 2011, I consider myself somewhat of a macaron connoisseur (read: addict), and whilst there is certainly no shortage of macarons on offer in Sydney, it is hard to find those of true 'French' quality.

Baroque, located in The Rocks, absolutely meets my macaron requirements! Each macaron has a soft chewy centre and intense flavour, from pistachio and sour cherry to passionfruit to my personal favourite, salted caramel.

However not only are they famous for macarons, the bistro serves up fantastic French fare, and the carefully curated wine list is the perfect accompaniment. The desserts are similarly outstanding.

I took advantage of the Saturday special, steak-frites and a glass of house red for $29, but I will definitely be going back on a Wednesday for steak tartare!

Where: 88 George Street (corner of Hickson Road), The Rocks
When: Monday-Saturday, midday till late
Contact: (02) 9241 4811
More Info: www.baroquebistro.com.au

Avenue Road Café

Avenue Road Café on the corner of Avenue Road and Military Road in Mosman has been a favourite of mine for a long time. The delicious coffee, Belgian hot chocolate and poached chicken sandwiches never fail to hit the spot.

With quirky lighting and friendly staff it's always warm and welcoming. Also notice that they collect different teaspoons, I think I've hardly ever had the same one twice. For something slightly more adventurous try the pineapple mint frappé.

Where: 185 Avenue Road, Mosman 2088

When: Every day 6am-5pm

Contact: (02) 9969 8999

P.S. They do all-day brekkie, score!

Chinese Garden of Friendship

The Chinese Garden of Friendship in Darling Harbour is a fascinating place. Ponds, carp, lilypads and typical Chinese architecture create a tranquil oasis in the middle of the city.

Read, sip some Jasmine tea or indulge in dim sum (if you know someone closer to the nine year old end of the scale you can even dress them up in traditional Chinese clothing).

The moongate was a personal favourite, and the ducklings, after all it is scientifically proven that ducklings make everything better, surely.

The Adventure Begins

As we enter the last month of winter, with the sun already starting to shine, I thought it would be the perfect time to start a new blog about the best city in the world. I hope to share my favourite things to do, places to eat and experiences to be had. Whether you are lucky enough to live in Sydney or are just visiting briefly, there are always new and exciting things to discover. So let the exploration commence!