yourRestaurants presents ... Summer Dining 2009-2010 NSW

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The harbour-side beer garden is a summertime sizzler at Opera Bar, where tropically tinged drinks like the exclusive Opera Bar Organic Pale Ale hit high notes. Seated at the foot of the Sydney Opera House, this quintessentially Sydney experience can be further enjoyed with a charcuterie plate or gourmet pizza to share among friends.

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Before or after a dip in the pristine waters of Shelly Beach, you'll be lured by the smells of fresh seafood at this sunny stalwart by the sea. You can't help but ease into your chair when you've got wide blue skies, deep blue waters and creamy white sands enveloping you.

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Bondi's glitterati flock to Icebergs all year round, but naturally summer is when this lavish beauty is at her glowing best. Relaxation is the key, whether you're soaking up the sea breeze on the balcony with a cheese board and bottle of wine, or enjoying a Mediterranean main inside while ensconced in a cushioned wicker chair.

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This weekend-only, three-levelled cafe and bar is a welcome addition to the Surry Hills scene, tucked behind Oxford Street in, surprise surprise, Perry Lane. Campos coffees, gourmet eggs brekkies and outdoor wine soirees are just some of the charming features of this fresh new hangout.

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Newtown is the home of funky beer gardens, and ZanziBar's plant-filled rooftop bar is a well-recognised Inner West gem. For more beer garden fun in Newtown, the Bank Hotel, Cooper's Arms Hotel, and Courthouse Hotel are on par with ZanziBar (and their pub food is top class).

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If Gazebo were a drink, it'd be a bubbly, like most of its social butterfly clientele who flutter about the alfresco wine garden. Divided into categories like Slurpable, Opulent and Unpronouncable, the wine list is a sight to be seen (and consequently consumed), paired with share plates, mains and dessert and cheese offerings. Gazebo's new Surry Hills sister, The Winery by Gazebo, is also set for some summer lovin'.

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Set in the centre of Centennial Park, this bright restaurant, cafe and kiosk is an enticing alternative to a picnic in the park, offering a season-based menu of local and organic goodies done mod-Oz style. Leisurely Sundays can be spent on the porch overlooking seemingly endless green lawns and looming trees.

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The first and the original Fishmongers (there's now a Mongers in Bondi and Manly), this Byron Bay fish and chips joint is actually a lot better than your average fish and chips spot. Dubbed "fine dining in a box", the seafood offerings here go just right with this eternally sunny holiday locale.