Arriving at a sunshine drenched Ash Street for the launch of March Into Merivale, I was greeted by a gorgeous young ‘door’ man, dressed in little more than a pink and orange tie-dyed apron and a smile to boot. He handed me a glass of bubbles and sent me off into a glamourous crowd of young professionals, stylish women and an impressive list of Sydney’s foodie elite.

The lane way was lined with stalls of Merivale’s restaurants and bars, each serving signature dishes to the hungry crowd. Ms G’s Sang Choy Bao of Cheeseburger Springroll with Potato Chip Mayonnaise was a favourite. As were the mini Lamb Pie with Sautéed Mushroom and Tarragon Jus from Bar Felix and the Beef Curry with Roti from Sailor’s Thai. The party continued in the Ivy ballroom with the sombrero-clad El Loco Bar boys serving up margarita slushees and spicy quesadillas, surrounded by brightly coloured piñatas. The team at Sushi Choo had a hard time keeping up with the handmade salmon temaki and the seafood ravioli at Uccello was clearly worth the wait.

The excited crowd critiqued the dishes (and the lacy lingerie models wandering around) as they moved from stall to stall. As the sun set, and the band took centre stage, one girl lamented ‘oh, why does every stand have to look so good?’, her friend nodded in agreement, as she struggled with the choice between a little raspberry and pistachio or blueberry tart.

Every year hundreds of people flock to Merivale venues to take advantage of their $33 meal deals at some of the best restaurants in Sydney. Usually including 1-2 courses and a glass of wine it’s a great way to try new places and a cheap night out with friends.

‘Above all, have a good time’ said the decorative plates scattered around the launch… and we did, thanks Merivale!