Winter A-Z 2025
A winter alphabet from Sydney, but really, a treasury for anyone craving delight – think interesting finds, small joys, and inspiration for wherever you are.
Welcome to A-Z Winter 2025: my new, alphabetically inspired dispatch from Sydney. Inspired by A La Carte’s recent Summer A to Z 2025 Edition, I decided to create my own version for winter in my city. From A to Z, here’s everything I’m seeing, doing, eating, coveting, making and reading as the days grow shorter.
Settle in for a cosy, curated run through the alphabet – with plenty of fashion, beauty and interiors inspiration along the way so you can enjoy from afar. Plus, the most perfect custom pet portrait.
A – A.P Bread
A.P Bread on the rooftop at Paramount has long been my go-to for beautifully rustic loaves and standout pastries when I’m on the other side of the bridge, but I’ve been quietly plotting a visit to their new sibling, A.P Bread and Wine. The hash brown with wagyu bresaola and parmesan sounds nicely indulgent and just the thing to set the tone for a winter night out.
B – Blemish
I haven’t seen Elliott Routledge’s work before, so I’m looking forward to discovering Blemish at Saint Cloche – there’s something about walking into a gallery with fresh eyes, ready to be surprised by bold colour and playful forms in the middle of winter.
C – cheeseburger
I finally made it to The Gidley after hearing so much about it – and I purposely didn’t go any further than the bar. To get in, you descend a flight of stairs from the street to a nondescript door and buzz for entry, which already sets the mood for something a bit special.
The legendary cheeseburger is surprisingly pared back to perfection: a double beef patty, sourced from Liquid & Larder’s in-house butchery at Alfie’s, nestled in a soft milk bun. It’s topped with cheddar cheese and a tangy ‘secret sauce’ – simple, elevated, and ranked #9 in the world (the #1 burger is London’s Salt Shed in Shoreditch). Every bite is rich, juicy, and deeply satisfying).
But it’s pairing this standout cheeseburger with their signature martini that made the experience truly memorable. The classic martini is beautifully presented on a silver platter with the reserve kept chilled in a glass jug on ice, ready for a second pour. The platter also featured three small bowls: rounds of citrus peel, olives in brine, and pickled onions for those who prefer a Gibson. The standout touch was a blue glass dropper bottle containing a unique blend – 10% aged Talisker whiskey and 90% brine – to add a savoury kick to your martini. It was a great night out, and thankfully not the kind that leaves you wincing at your bank statement the next day.
That got me thinking about my time at the Connaught Bar in London, where the martini is served with a touch of theatre – wheeled out on a sleek black trolley as if it were a magic trick. The bartender sets out five small bottles of housemade bitters on your table, each with its own eyedropper. One by one, a drop of each is placed onto a card for you to sample, almost like testing perfumes at a department store counter – except here, you’re picking what goes in your drink, not your pulse points.
The bitters range from floral to woody, each offering a unique twist. Once you’ve made your choice, your selection is added directly to the glass, infusing your martini with a bespoke fragrance and flavour. The entire ritual is delightful, making you feel as if your drink has been crafted just for you. And while the martini is the star, it would be remiss not to mention the exceptional snacks available next door at the Stream Bar – particularly the Scottish lobster roll with dill cream. After all, who wouldn’t appreciate a well-paired bite? Three-course meal not required.
D – duffle coat
As a longtime duffle coat devotee, I’m always hunting for a fresh spin on the classic – and COS’s longer hooded wool duffle coat in camel is just what I’ve been searching for. I love the refined details, the enveloping hood, and the fact that it’s crafted from recycled wool. The last two coats I bought were unstructured with a tie waist, and, if I’m honest, I’ve started to feel a bit like I’m wrapped in a bathrobe. This time, I’m looking for something with a more tailored silhouette.
I’m on a (moderately) strict ‘only looking’ rule for the rest of this year, but I’ll admit – seeing it on sale is tempting. For now, I’ve hit the ‘notify me’ button, ready to wait for more stock to arrive.
E – eyeliner stencil
I spotted this Half Magic Wing Magician eyeliner stencil at Mecca and I’m seriously tempted – has anyone actually tried one of these? My wings are always a bit wonky, so I’m curious if this clever little tool really delivers on its promise of perfect flicks every time.
F – flowers
I’m planning to pick up some winter blooms from Bess in Paddington, a favourite for its thoughtful floral designs. I love how Bess cleverly mixes Australian native flowers with classic European blooms – the arrangements always feel fresh, unexpected, and just right for the season.
G – gallery
I’m heading to the MCA to see Cerith Wyn Evans’ in light of the visible – his first solo show in Australia, and apparently full of monumental light installations and sound sculptures you can actually walk through. I’ve heard the whole thing is meant to feel like wandering through a luminous garden and I’m curious to see how all the glass and neon come together in person.
H – hot chocolate
I’m on the hunt for Sydney’s best hot chocolate. I’ve already tried the chocolat chaud at Manon in the QVB – if you love your hot chocolate thick and French-style, it’s a solid choice – but I’m searching for something a little less intensely sweet. Kakawa in Darlinghurst is next on my list; their version looks promising and might just hit the spot.
I – Italian
Neptune’s Grotto is my favourite Italian restaurant in Sydney at the moment, and I can’t wait to return this winter. My go-to is the Tajarin al Pomodoro – silky ribbons of pasta that let the sweetness of the tomatoes and roasted garlic shine through in every bite.
J – juicy steak
If I’ve got a craving for steak, there’s only one place I’m heading: Neil Perry’s Margaret in Double Bay. The steak was absolutely fabulous – honestly, the best I’ve ever had – and it turns out I’m not the only one who thinks so; Margaret was recently named the second-best restaurant for steak in the world.
K – kitchen renovation
The kitchen renovation for our modernist ‘70s pole house has been a long time coming, giving me ample opportunity to gather inspiration and daydream about the perfect space. I’m especially drawn to timber joinery paired with a white porcelain or finely veined marble benchtop – warm tones balanced by crisp, clean lines that feel sympathetic to the home’s original design. Here are a few of my favourite references.
L – lunch
I’ll be heading out for a classic Sunday roast lunch – and for me, it’s not truly cosy without a proper fireplace. The Duke of Clarence is top of my list for that ultimate British pub experience (crackling fire, hearty Yorkshire puddings, the works), but I’m also very partial to the Lord Dudley, which does a fabulous fireside roast dinner and is exactly the kind of place you want to linger all afternoon.
M – make
I’m feeling the urge to make something with my hands – something cosy and creative. I’m loving the look of Rachel Castle’s needlepoint kits in collaboration with Loop Canvas: bold, playful designs that promise a satisfying project and a splash of cheer for the colder months.
N – North Sydney markets
I’m keen to visit the North Sydney Produce Market this winter – my mother-in-law has picked up some wonderful foodie delights from there over the years, and I’m curious to see what all the fuss is about. With more than 70 stallholders bringing everything from farm-fresh produce to artisan cheeses and gourmet pastries, it sounds like a proper food lover’s market.
O – Oroton
I’m seriously coveting this Oroton cashmere blend cardigan in Pale Sherbet – it’s the perfect mix of cosy and chic, with its soft wool and cashmere blend, boxy cut, and those lovely ribbed details. I’m thinking it would look good paired with my Jac and Jack skirt to take it into winter. But I need to remind myself I’m only window shopping.
P – potato rosti
I’m keen to try the potato rosti at Tramshed Café Narrabeen, especially after Table Tonic’s glowing recommendation. House made rosti with spiced tomato ragu, garlicky mushrooms, avo smash, and a poached egg – sounds like comfort on a plate.
Q – quiet spot
This winter, I’ll be making a beeline for my favourite quiet spot – the sunny, warm corner of my bedroom – where I can watch the bird life out on the deck. King parrots, galahs, and kookaburras are regular visitors, and I always keep an eye out for lyrebirds and wonder if Betty the protective currawong will return with her swooping come spring.
R – record store
I’ll be searching for treasure at Sydney’s best record stores this winter, with Egg Records and Repressed Records in Newtown at the top of my list. I’m on the hunt for early Go-Betweens albums – there’s something special about flipping through the stacks and finding a gem.
S – stew
I’m looking forward to making Adam Liaw’s beef bourguignon stew – a classic French braise with meltingly tender beef, slow-cooked with wine, bacon, mushrooms, and all the good things. His version is known for its depth of flavour, so I’m looking forward to seeing how it turns out.
T – The Burrow
I want to track down a copy of The Burrow by Melanie Cheng, especially after seeing Annabel Crabb’s glowing recommendation on Instagram. It’s been described as a beautifully written, tender story about family, grief, and hope – exactly the sort of book I love to get lost in on a cold night. And it features a pet rabbit, which I can definitely relate to.
U – ultimate pet portrait
Speaking of pets, I love the look of these custom ‘wonky pet portraits’ by Australian artist Faye Moorhouse – quirky, charming, and just a bit cheeky. They’re the perfect way to celebrate a beloved pet with a portrait that’s full of personality, rather than perfect realism. So good.
V – vintage shopping
For my essential ‘window shopping’ vintage fix this winter, I’ll be trawling Vestiaire, Rokit, and Beyond Retro. And for those IRL treasure hunts, I’ll be popping into Sydney’s best bricks-and-mortar gems, including Dolly Up and Swop – because nothing beats the thrill of a proper rummage. I’ll also be hitting up my favourite op shops: I scored a Leona Edmiston dress at Mosman Vinnies for $30 last year and a charming pair of Lanvin Mary Janes for $65 at Hornsby Anglicare op shop.
W – whale watching
I’ll be ambling along the coastal path from South Curl Curl to Freshwater, which is a walk so lovely it almost distracts you from the real reason you’re there – to spot whales. I’ll make a beeline for McKillop lookout, my favourite location for catching a glimpse of something magnificent.
X – eXcellent lipstick (I know)
Hermès’ new Silky Lipstick Shine is a quiet luxury buy, with a clever buildable formula that adapts to your desired finish – dabbed on as a tinted balm, swiped once for a soft wash of colour, or layered up for a berry-stained finish. And the gorgeous colour block packaging, designed by Pierre Hardy, is playful and very me. I love a bold lip so I’m especially drawn to the limited edition Orange Flash shade.
Y – yellow
I love the vibrant yellow of this McQueen T-Bar sling bag. It’s a pop of cheer during the winter months, brightening up even the coldest days with its bold energy. Its sleek assymetric shape and bold T-bar hardware make it a standout, cross-body bag.
Z – zzz
When the chill finally gets the better of me, I’ll be retreating under a pile of blankets – hibernating until spring arrives. And which blanket would I love to be reaching for? This beautiful number by Citta, of course.
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Fantastic ideas - love this list. I’m def going to need a wonky pet portrait. Anywhere with a fireplace has my vote!
Love that yellow bag! ( also I have that same quiet spot mug!)