Tetsuya's, Sydney

Tranquil, perfect, a journey in gastronomy. Another of my top five in Australia.

The dining experience at Tetsuya's is special. The service, the tranquil Japanese garden setting, the delicate flavours all add up to an experience you won't forget in a hurry. I've had the honour to eat here a number of times. Often it has been a business-related experience, but I have enjoyed it with a close friend and a lover too.

Tetsuya manages to find extraordinary produce, and the oysters are always amazing. His signature dish, the konbu-sprinkled ocean trout confit has incredibly clean flavours and is consistently delectable each time I visit. I love the structure of the menu, with each course complementing the one that went before. Dessert is not what you go to Tetsuya's for, however, his take on strawberry shortcake is delicious!

I love that over the years you see the same waiters, the same quality of service and attention to detail. Tetsuya's is a dining institution in Sydney, and deservedly so. It's not cheap though, so save your pennies and add this restaurant to your things to do before you die list. It truly is an experience you will never forget.

Tetsuya's is at 529 Kent St, Sydney 02 9267 2900.

Tetsuya's cookbook also has a lot of his famous dishes. I have not tried to cook anything from his cookbook, however.