This is very good for a second-hand book shop. Light and airy, lots and lots of books that are well organised in tall shelves, and a lovely atmosphere with rugs, leather couches, and a cafe upstairs. New stuff downstairs also good. And you can sell them your old books for cash or vouchers.

Good independent bookstore, great for a browse, with lots of more 'alternative' and academic titles (social science etc) than a normal book shop, and a good art range upstairs. It's open late too. Only trouble is the space is tight, so you'll be forever squeezing past people (usually 'bookish' types).

I had a free haircut here a few months ago. Apart from being free (great), I got a professional wash and blow dry, and they even tried curling it as I had the extra time. Expect to wait a bit, and to spend a fair amount of time, but the outcome is fine. A teacher will double check you are happy with everything.

Approximate cost: $Free

Beautifully presented, made from scratch and uniquely flavoured gelato. I had the fig and Marsala - a delicious and amazing taste. Would go out of my way to get some of this.

Approximate cost: $5

Fantastic food, definitely some different and delicious flavours, and a good place to try Malaysian if you haven't before (friends from there say it's pretty authentic). I haven't experienced a line-up before - try it for a late breakfast/early lunch. It's always busy with happy people though. Yum!

Approximate cost: $15

Went here for coffee and raisin toast on a quiet weekend. The coffee was awful, almost undrinkable. The place was empty and I felt like the staff were trying too hard for something to do. I was asked several times how my toast was, and felt almost like part of the conversation between the staff member and owner, so intrusive was their conversation in the dead-quiet space. There was also some depressing classical music playing. Not a great atmosphere for your weekend.

I've had lunch and coffee here quite a few times. It's part of a gourmet food store including cheese room, and the menu is suitably high quality food at very reasonable prices, which you order off the blackboard or display items. There is a lovely sunny eating area but I think the seating is only on stools. Good coffee. Usually a few newspapers/mags to read.

Approximate cost: $12

Decided to walk into this Thai cafe for a rainy weekend late lunch and was happily surprised. The food is fantastic - both what we ate and what I saw on other tables. Well presented, fresh, and a little bit different (more authentic perhaps). Best of all, the flavours are well balanced - not too sweet or salty. Service is fine, room has a cheerful vibe.

Approximate cost: $15

I've had lunch here a few times and a takeaway dinner. The food is fresh and pretty much standard Sydney Thai, but overly sweet for me in some stir fries and the Pad Thai. Also a bit more expensive than it should be. Atmosphere is okay but small - you may need to sit right next to the counter and get annoyed by customers waiting for takeaway.

Approximate cost: $16

I've been using these hairdressers on and off for about 3 years. They are mainly Korean and don't speak much English, so it's good for when you just want a trim or are not too fussed on getting an exact style. They do a great job, often including straightening if you want it with the blowdry. It's a funky, busy atmosphere. And really well-priced (like $33 for a ladies cut and blowdry!).

Approximate cost: $35