Bondi may have a reputation for bikinis and surfboards but step back from the beach and you’ll discover a vibrant, creative neighbourhood teeming with amazing restaurants, charming bars, stylish boutiques and more. Make the best of your next trip with our locals’ guide to the “Best of Bondi”…

Panama House

Planning on spending the whole day in Bondi? Panama House is a good place to start. Set back from the hustle and bustle and featuring a delicious, Southern American inspired menu, its a great spot to enjoy a leisurely breakfast before you make your way down the hill to Bondi!

The Bondi Farmers Markets

Held every Saturday morning, the Farmers Market offers seasonal fruit & vegetables, organically grown meat & poultry, just picked flowers, artisan breads, homemade jams, farmstead cheeses, seafood, olive oils, herbs, spices and much more. Kick off the weekend here with a coffee, some live music and a fresh bunch of flowers for home.

Shop U

More than just a store, Shop U is the ‘living design portfolio’ of owner Aleisha Lancaster. Her eclectic store houses commissioned and curated furnishings, fixtures, locally and internationally sourced products for design projects and a selection of Bondi Wash products. Pop in for gifts, interiors inspiration and to draw on Aleisha’s extensive knowledge of the design industry.

Bondi Icebergs

The famous Bondi Icerbergs pool has been an iconic landmark of Bondi Beach for over 100 years. The large pool is perfect for swimming laps, while the smaller pool is a lovely spot for little ones to have a splash around. In the colder months, the locals head to the sauna to warm up after a mid-Winter dip.

Shopping on Gould St

Nestled just behind the beachfront is Gould Street, the home of Bondi’s compact fashion precinct. Iconic surf brands, hip local designers and high-end international fashion labels sit side-by-side on Bondi’s busiest shopping strip, which caters to a wide range of styles and budgets. Some boutiques are even open later on Saturday evenings to cater for last-minute wardrobe emergencies!

Mr Moustache

In the mood for an award-winning, pre-dinner cocktail? Stop by Mr Moustache, an elegant Art Deco bar specialising in mescal and tequila. If you have trouble choosing from the impressive variety of inventive drinks, just ask the staff for a recommendation – in our experience, they are always happy to walk you through the menu and help you find something you’ll love!

China Diner / The Corner House

Our top two picks for dinner in Bondi have a lot in common including delicious food, an extensive wine/cocktail list, inviting atmosphere and amazing service! Head to China Diner for modern Asian cuisine – perfect for sharing with friends – or to The Corner House if you’re in the mood for classic, European-style bistro fare and a relaxed, after-dinner nightcap.