Thank God this place opened up - now there's actually something quality to eat when you want quick food around the Tingalpa area! I eat here at least once a week. The food is AMAZING - it's not heavy and covered in cheese like some Mexican places. The spicy, shredded angus beef burrito is my recommendation!

Approximate cost: $10

I've tried Zumbo's macarons before, and was really looking forward to the dessert train at The Star. It was a bit disappointing as we had to wait for nearly an hour in line. There's not much seating inside, and they could've made much better use of the space. The service was okay, but the desserts weren't anything super spectacular, especially for the price. Next time I'll just buy macarons and a V8 cake from the Zumbo shops instead. Won't bother eating in here again.

Northies is a nice venue for a couple of drinks or to enjoy lunch whilst looking out at the beach. Quite a large area and you can sit inside or outside. Typical sporting club feel, but all very modern and friendly. Looks like the food has improved since May 2011, as we had two wonderful meals there recently.

La Renaissance Café Pâtisserie is my absolute favourite place to have breakfast or just coffee in Sydney. I make sure I visit every time. The pastries and macarons etc are all made out the back of the shop (you can watch them in action). You can sit out the front if you're a people-watcher, but I prefer the lovely atmosphere out the back in the courtyard. Amazing food, coffee and location. I'd recommend this place to everyone!

We stumbled across this store by accident. The cupcakes look absolutely amazing, and presentation is top notch. The girls serving were very friendly and prices were okay. The only gripe was that the cupcakes themselves were quite dry (the icing was great). We bought a box of 6 different kinds and they were all like this.

We stopped in here to grab a coffee on our way somewhere. The place looks amazing and they have an array of delicious pastries etc to choose from as well. We went to order, only to find out that it's cash only. The gentleman at the counter was extremely friendly and pointed us in the right direction for the ATM. When we came back to place our order again and pay, he'd already made the coffees for us and had them ready! Now that's service.

I head to The Grove every Tuesday for trivia. If you head there on a Tuesday night they also have specials where you get a pizza and beer for $13 or pizza and wine for $15. The trivia is great - very relaxed and not one of those syndicated ones that you get at most pubs. It's downstairs in the "Roots Bar" and is run by a Scottish guy named Charles. The atmosphere is great, but I wish they would get the air conditioning working!!! Upstairs you'll find the restaurant, which has fantastic food. The ribs and the lamb shank are amazing! Check the website for specials on different days.

Approximate cost: $29

I've been going to TMH for quite a while. I've had my hair cut by a few people there, and I find Erin the best. The prices have gone up over time, but are comparable to most other hairdressers. If you're a guy you can just walk in without an appointment.

Approximate cost: $30 for a men's cut

I have dealt with both Matt and Reece at Zillmere Mechanical. They know what they're doing, seem very honest and helpful. Often quite busy, but they have a few mechanics and room for plenty of cars. They also do safety certificates (roadworthies).

Crusty Devil makes great pies and various breads (spinach and cheese is my favourite). The coffee is great too, and very cheap compared to other coffee shops. Best of all this shop is open 24 hours on Friday and Saturday nights.