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Whoever says dating is easy is obviously in a committed relationship. In the age of Tinder, Bumble, Grindr etc., tantalising a potential admirer with your charm requires more than cheap Thai takeaway and a movie. It is a fully-fledged, hair-raising sport. Luckily for Sydneysiders, we have a thriving inner-city hangout perfect for a romantic evening for two.
Known for its cool converted warehouses and modern shopping complex, Kensington Street’s intimate alleyways are home to hotbed of Happy Hours to glorious fusion food. What better way to impress your soon-to-be better half?

Here is our guide for a (successful) Date Night in Kensington Street.

Drinks at Handpicked Wines

Set in a beautiful boutique warehouse, Handpicked Wines’ Cellar Door will get an evening of relaxed conversation flowing. While uncovering the secrets about your new friend, discover and explore the 21 wine regions showcased at the tasting bar. An international tour of five countries, settle into glass, bottle or a Tasting Flight. The affordable curated wine selections (starting at $20) will settle an awkward disagreement about whether to go with White or Red. Feeling peckish, nervous (or light-headed) before dinner? Then opt for a cheese and charcuterie platter. Soft, semi-hard, hard, blue ask the friendly staff for cheese recommendations that will best match your selected drop.

(02) 9392 9190

http://www.handpickedwines.com.au

Dinner at Eastside Kitchen + Bar

While you could quite easily venture down the famed Spice Alley with a BYO bottle from Handpicked Wines, and share in one of the many Asian flavours on offer. Eastside Kitchen + Bar is the grilled jewel in Chippendale’s crown. Overlooking the bustling Kensington Street, Eastside will please the fussiest diner with its experimental produce driven la carte menu. Don’t be greedy (it’s a date after all) and share in the range of starters and mains. Start with perfectly grilled asparagus, teamed with a tangy chives vinaigrette and oozy burrata ($23) or the grilled Clarence river baby octopus, teamed with smoked almond romesco and decadent potato chips ($22). As you gaze into one another’s eyes, bond over the succulently melting anger’s valley angus skirt steak with roasted potatoes and baby peppers. If meat isn’t your calling, then the nannygai red fish pops to life with compressed watermelon, seaweed and cucumber salad ($34).

Dessert at KOI

Don’t be a stinge, it’s time for dessert. However, a trip to KOI Dessert Bar doesn’t have to burst the bank. Although we are yet to find Willy Wonka, former MasterChef sweet treat Reynold Poernomo and his team are surely the Sydney equivalent. You could continue the date night feast with a set menu (starting from $50pp). KOI ‘s individual cakes ranging from $12-$15 should suffice. Grab a spoon each a settle your sugary cravings with the divine White Peach or, if you are feeling a naughty, dive into the Bailey’s.

Drinks at Gin Lane

By this stage you should know if your date is worthy of a Bachelor rose. Providing all is going well, why not return to the bar, but this time at Gin Lane. As the name suggests, this 18^th Century inspired manor will convert any gin sceptic with a taste of one of its 80 gin varieties. Head to the alfresco street side space and watch the world go by as you ponder what to do with the remainder of you evening. For some privacy, grab your Fishbowl of G&T ($32) and head upstairs to one of the leather-clad booths.

https://ginlanesydney.com.au

Overnight stay in The Old Clare Hotel

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