FISH AND WATER – Doyles

Locals know this place, almost taking it for granted. Overseas visitors can't believe it: the view clear up the harbour to a faint horizon silhouette of the CBD buildings and a mere hump of Harbour Bridge, or the location, just a step (literally) from the beach. The Doyle family have been serving  seafood here since 1885, so of course the fish is as fresh as it gets, Best to go for the un-messed with – just straightforward 'Doyle's famous' fish'n'chips which clearly states the origin of the several fish offered. A bowl of steamed local mussels, makes a great start to any meal, as do king prawns or local calamari. If you want to picnic in the park, or need a quick fishy fix, Doyles Fishermans Wharf, next door, has identical views. Here there is both takeaway and a small a la carte menu. Parking in this popular area is not easy, so go by RiverCat or water taxi.

Doyles on the Beach, 11 Marine Pde, Watsons Bay, 02 9337 2007. Licensed. Lunch and dinner daily. www.doyles.com.au

 (meal paid for and visited anonymously)