Score

The score out of 20 is our assessment of the total restaurant experience. It comprises 10 points for food, 5 for service, 3 for ambience, with an extra 2 points possible for something special – be it location, service, attitude, commitment or wow factor. Places scoring less than 12/20 are not included.

What it means

12	Reasonable
13	Good, if not great
14	Solid and enjoyable
15	Very good
16	Capable of greatness
17	Special
18	Exceptional
19	Extraordinary
20	The very best
	10 of the Best
	Good vegetarian options
	Good wine list
	Dine & Stay

How we review

This year, as always, the Good Food Guide reviewing team has visited every restaurant reviewed, dining anonymously each time and paying every bill in full. Each three-hat candidate is visited numerous times, likewise many of the two- and one-hatters. We also visit many, many more restaurants than will fit into this book. Each restaurant is scored according to set criteria. But the ultimate criterion for selection is whether we would recommend it to a friend.

Accuracy

All information in the Guide is checked, doublechecked and triple-checked. But things can, and will, change. As they say, everything is correct at the time of going to print. If in any doubt about what you read, call the restaurant to confirm.

The bill

Prices listed are taken as an average for entree, main course and dessert, or the equivalent in the case of tapas or ‘small plate’ menus. Some places offer set price or degustation menus, or higher prices (or minimum spends) on weekends. We try to include those details too. We also list credit cards accepted, and any surcharges.

Wine

Each review gives a short description of the restaurant’s wine list and notes those which allow BYO. Corkage is noted as charged per person (e.g. $2 pp) or per bottle. Most of the restaurants in this Guide are BYO for bottled wine only – no beer, spirits or casks. A wineglass symbol indicates a particularly good wine list – appropriate to the restaurant and its menu.

Bookings

Bookings are recommended for all restaurants that take them. We highlight those restaurants that regard bookings as essential. And we let you know if they don’t take bookings at all. You can also book online, for a FREE and guaranteed reservation whenever you see 'book online'.

Kid friendly

Most restaurants will welcome (well-behaved) children. But those who go to extra effort – with kids’ menus, high chairs and the like – are marked as ‘kid friendly’.

Vegetarian

Most restaurants list at least one vegetarian entree and main. We single out those who do more than that by offering several meat-free choices, even separate menus. But it’s always best to call ahead if you have any dietary restrictions.

Late-night dining

These are places where the kitchen is still open after 10.30pm.

Wheelchair access

Using information supplied to us by the restaurants, we cite wheelchair access only if accessible toilets are also provided. If in doubt, call.

Feedback

Your recommendations and comments are always welcome.
Email us on goodfoodguide@smh.com.au or write to The Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide, GPO Box 506, Sydney, 2000. We're also on Twitter at twitter.com/goodfoodguide