6 Sunday Session Venues for Shedding the Cares of the Week

Sunday sessions epitomise a lifestyle of leisure and indulgence, us to bask in the essence of brightness, lightness and luxury - it’s a day dedicated to unwinding, shedding the cares of the week and relishing the finer moments of life.

The atmosphere is characterised by an air of relaxation and unhurried enjoyment where every element from the ambience to the offerings, is carefully curated to enhance a sense of well-being. 

Whether it is sipping a chilled glass of Champagne under the sun’s warm embrace, lounging in comfortable seating surrounded by serene landscapes or savouring gourmet delights – Sunday sessions are an oasis of tranquillity and opulence where time seems to slow down, allowing you to enjoy life’s pleasures to the fullest.

Here are six of our fave spots for a weekend sesh:

 

Building an excellent reputation for fine wine and food, head to East End Cellars – The Tasting Room on Vardon Avenue in Adelaide CBD for a cosy drink with friends while watching the world pass by. Join the lively buzz of conversation over a glass of vino in rustic surrounds of recycled timber, red brick and endless racks of wine tempting all palates, or head outside under glowing strings of globes and take in the night vibe as you peruse a share plate-style menu.

Sundays are for lingering over a charcuterie platter of cured meat, cheese, baguette, quince, fruit, cornichons and pickles; or sharing a whole flounder with caper beurre noisette and sides of seasonal greens and shoestring fries with chilli, Parmesan and mayo.

 

Discover Italian coastal dining on the Noosa River at Lucio’s Marina on Parkyn Court in Tewantin. In the business of feeding people for generations, hospitality truly does run through the veins of the Galletto family and this Sunshine Coast restaurant continues the traditions from Northern Italy, combining quality local catches with Italian culture.

Expect a vibe in keeping with the coastal lifestyle with white-clothed tables, cane pendents and sunset views as you start your Sunday session with tuna tartar tartlets, or sashimi and green apple nori crackers; before lamb rump, leeks, fried leeks and Noosa black garlic.

 

Splash Seafood Restaurant on the Esplanade in Cairns is the perfect place to enjoy the delightful marine cuisine of Tropical North Queensland. Overlooking the Coral Sea, this dining destination delivers food for sailors at heart whether an easy family lunch, romantic dinner or group celebration – it’s time to make a splash!

Dine alfresco and soak up balmy breezes with a cocktail in hand and dive right in with a starter of seafood chowder with potato, bacon, leek, fish, prawns and crusty bread; then hook a main like scallop and prawn risotto, paired with a glass of Brokenwood Semillon.

 

Embark on a palate-tantalising adventure at Paste Australia on Main Street in Mittagong. The Southern Highlands of NSW have been chosen as the Australian stage for Thailand’s famous Michelin-starred culinary institution, Paste Bangkok, as Chefs Bee Satongun and Jason Bailey showcase their bold and masterful approach to Thai cuisine.

Step into a light and bright vibe of whitewashed walls adorned with artwork, blond wood and orange-coloured chairs to enjoy a Sunday chill out over dishes such as freshly made vermicelli noodles, beef cheek laksa, preserved turnip, peanuts and dried shrimp.

 

Modern, sophisticated French dishes taking inspiration from the traditional roots of the Burgundy region await discerning foodies at La Chouette on Alexandra Street in Hunters Hill. A stylish ambience of white-clothed tables, sandstone and a light green colour palette sets an elegant vibe for intimate Sunday dining, while a large wall wine rack promises ideal pairings to dishes on the menu.

Say merci to entrées of Burgundy snails with parsley, garlic and butter, or French onion soup with toast and gruyere; then indulge the senses with a main of venison loin served medium rare, with duxelles, roasted broccolini and red currant sauce.

 

Enjoy fine dining on Launceston’s waterfront at the Chef Hat-awarded Mudbar Restaurant, situated at the Old Launceston Seaport. Patrons gather around the bar to enjoy harbour views through sleek floor-to-ceiling windows, while excited guests sink into dark chocolate-toned cushioned seats under warm mood lighting.

Opt for Sunday aperitifs at the elegant bar, or slurp your way through Oyster Hour from 3 pm to 4 pm and savour half-price mixed oysters with a glass of premium sparkling wine; for the main think plates such as twice-cooked pork, master stock, mint, chiffonade and crispy ginger.