I ADORE this place! If you're expecting fancy seating and overly affable staff waiting on your every need, this place is not for you. It's a traffic jam of patrons scratching for the first seat they can get, in the claustrophobic strip of seating.

The staff are rushed, and for good reason. The meals is additively delicious, some of the best Chinese I have ever had. Some of the standouts are the BBC Special (broad bean, bean curd and chutney) Shallot pancakes, and the crispy duck. Nothing beautifully presented, just amazing food which will leave you full to the brim and taking home the leftovers.

This place is not to be missed.

Approximate cost: $12

The Grovedale is very good night out. The meals are beautiful and the servings are big. We were a little taken back with the prices - not that they weren't fully justified in the quality - Just that we assumed at the time (being a bistro/pokies place) we were going to be having a cheap 'pub' meal. Not really the case. Even so, the food was delish - will definitely be coming back again.

Approximate cost: $25 - 30

Best pizza I've ever had in Torquay. These crew know exactly they're doing, they offer a great selection of tempting pizzas (there gourmet pizzas are superb!). Always receive a friendly greeting even at the most hectic of times. I've always found myself getting the meals takeaway, definitely worth the wait in line - agreed that the venue is quite loud, not the most romantic place for a italian dinner date.

Approximate cost: $16

1st Visit: Restaurant - Meals were considerably good for a pub, priced fairly well. As for service, we got our order taken - this was the extent of it. When we went to pay, we were waiting for a good 10 minutes for someone to come out and serve us. (There wasn't even anyone at the bar - we could of walked out and no one would have known)

2nd Visit: Bar meals - 5 orders were taken down. 3 meals were brought out in good time. The other 2 took over 50 minutes to come out after the first 3. Everyone was ready to leave by the time our meals arrived. (Note these meals were a parma and fish & chips) not the most complicated of meals to prepare.)

We would have been happier if we received an apology of some sort, but were just handed the meals and the waiter left.

Approximate cost: $22

Beautiful coffee. The fact they use fair trade coffee beans is also a good tick of approval. Courtyard is very nice to have a read of the paper and kick back.

Service has been varied. Use to receive quite a warm welcome when I was a semi-regular. I walked back in recently with the same expectation in mind - this wasn't the case. I was a little disappointed considering we were the only couple in the cafe.

I've been coming to Sticks and Grace for over 4 years, and is one of my favourites on Pakington St. Fantastic coffee and a variety a beautiful meals for breakfast - guaranteed to temp anyones tastebuds. Always very busy which is good... but not for someone like myself who tends not to book.

May be a little overpriced for some, but the cost is definitely reflected fairly considering the quality and presentation that goes into the food.

Approximate cost: $28

I found this hidden gem walking up Pakington St. one day. Amazing food and a very cruisey atmosphere. The outdoor area is brilliant place for kicking back with friends. Can't wait for the the summer days to come back and take full advantage.

I've been here for breakfast and tea - loved the gourmet pizzas! Staff were very nice and professional. Steampocket is still new and undiscovered to most - this place is a absolute must. Check it out soon, before you have to start booking in advance!

Approximate cost: $20