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Any kind of food could be kosher, but two main styles, Israeli and traditional Jewish food, are readily available in the Bondi area. Savion is the stalwart, offering Israeli street food such as chicken shwarmas. Try Katzy’s for chicken soup with matza balls, and don’t miss the bagels and cakes at Carmel Bakery.

Bounded by the Hawkesbury River to the north and Pittwater to the east, this gorgeous native bushland is a bushwalker’s and kayaker’s delight. There are numerous walking trails, picnic-and campgrounds, lookouts, hundreds of Aboriginal rock art sites, secluded beaches, a tucked-away restaurant overlooking the water at Cottage Point and marinas at Akuna Bay and Bobbin Head. Cycling and horseriding are allowed in certain sections of the park. Flora and fauna highlights include banksias, waratahs, Sydney red gums, kangaroos, flying foxes, pelicans, platypus, blue-tongued lizards, cockatoos and parrots. The visitors centre runs activities and provides maps and other useful information.

East of Berry’s Bay, this cove has great views of the Opera House framed by the Harbour Bridge. It was named after George Lavender, a boatswain who married the daughter of his neighbour Billy Blue (see William “Billy” Blue). In 1817 Governor Macquarie granted Billy Blue 32 ha (80 acres) west of Lavender Bay. In 1830, at the age of 82, Billy Blue established a ferry service from Dawes Point to the headland that now bears his name. There is a small reserve at its end, but the point is dominated by a Harry Seidler (see Rose Seidler House) apartment building that many consider an eyesore.

The central Lebanese mosque is at Lakemba but the best food can be found at the suburb of Punchbowl. Head to The Boulevarde for hummus, falafel and baklava. Jasmin1 is a good place for a very quick, cheap and tasty meal. Nearby Summerland is a bit more swish and has bellydancers most nights.

Designed by James Barnet (see Martin Place), Leichhardt Post Office is no longer in use, but it is possible to admire its strong lines and severe shape from the street. It is a good example of the Victorian Italianate style, popularized in Australia by architectural pattern books and used in many homes. The tower, designed to accommodate a clock that never arrived, provides a formal divide between the public and residential parts of the building.

Luna Park has been a harbourside icon and favourite with Sydney children since the 1930s. Modelled on New York’s Coney Island, this amusement park on the North Shore (see Milsons Point), beside the Harbour Bridge, reopened in 2004 following major renovations. Enter through the 9-m (29.5-ft) clown face to enjoy classics such as the dodgems and the carousel, and newer attractions such as the UFO.