☃︎⋆꙳•❅*ִ Winter wrap-up 🌨

In my fits of reflection, I have realised that my biggest affinities – writing, art, fashion and food are all distinctly human endeavours. By human endeavours I mean – intimate -concerned with us – there’s a tangibility in writing and art, a physical adornment of clothing and a consumption in food. Well, what makes me most connected with my humanity? What pairs the best with a meal?

Salacious, hot, sticky and messy –

Gossip.

It’s catty, girly, therapeutic and brings out the worst in me. I need it every few weeks. Rally some girlfriends, get your mother – order two drinks each. Elixir of life. Below, enjoy a short and sweet compilation of my recent eats – ranked by the quality of food, and more importantly, quality of gossip.

1. La Famacia in Darlinghurst

Food: ★★★☆☆

Cosy, slightly gimmicky and packed full of individuals who are white-girl-wasted. Margarita options are gloriously extensive. Came here on a Tuesday, paid half-price ($4!!!!!) for some decent Guadalajaran tacos. Pretty top-class nibbles here too – a standout were the toastadas de ceviche, pictured above. The tuna portion was incredible for only $12 – huge pink ball the size of my entire fist. Get the corn ribs.

Gossip: ★★★★★

Life-changing revelations were had. Dressing intentionally comfy brought out something in me. Sociological critiques regarding interpersonal relationships with men. What emoji combos to put into bios. Weight off of my shoulders. Discussions regarding tall poppy syndrome. High-school couples that need to break up. Geopolitical manoeuvres. Kamala Harris Brat Summer.

2. Izgara, Clarence Street

Food: ★★★★☆

Arab food, Arab food. I love you but you make me shit myself. Baked eggplant and lavish dips with fresh herbs and fluffy yogurts are so supreme here. The olive oil is great. I got to drink a sour cherry margarita – perfectly tart, chilled. The acidity paired dreamily with the grilled lamb köfte. Special props to the baklava cheesecake – order it as an excuse to share with a hot date.

Gossip: ★★★★☆

Gossip was not necessarily had here. Me and my favourite white girl instead were reunited after being separated by two different Europe vacations. News of new job opportunities, experiences of internships. Crazy thrift finds in Switzerland. Okay, a little gossip here and there. Critical analysis of sex work and its consumers. A swift trip to Cantina OK! afterwards.

3. Café de la Fontaine in Potts Point

Food: ★★★☆☆

Ever-lasting Darlinghurst Road bares many gifts. The gifts in question are a sickening pair of matcha kalamansi (seasonal special) and classic pistachio eclairs. Dense pastry with airy filling, cloud-light creams and the crunch of nuts or the chew of citrus. Darlings dressed prettily in green.

Gossip: ★★★★.5

Much-needed mummy-daughter date. Family secrets brewing over more than 20 years. My dad’s side of the family. Now what did my auntie’s father’s cousin’s sister-in-law do? Decisions for immigrating. Why do white people divorce so quick? Saree and blouse choices for Durga Puja.