These guys work really hard and their dry cleaning and repairs are immaculate. Not only that, but they are extremely cheap! My husband had his wedding suit dry cleaned for $10 and the guys at Reliable did a perfect job. It took us a while to find the best dry cleaner in town.

Approximate cost: $10.

This is a somewhat eccentric family business where the customer is always warmly regarded and remembered upon return. The prices are unbelievably cheap, on the whole. It's hardly worth traveling out to the markets yourself with local competition like this! Arida's is a real old-world family store where you can pick up the essentials for the evening meal with the small change in your pocket and go home feeling like you're part of a community.

Approximate cost: $5.

These guys were selling the full range of organic and free range meats and eggs long ago and are going from strength to strength. I return there for their Bangalow ham and bacon as I will not eat factory-farmed meat. It's always service with a smile at TJ's meats. When I was a local I was always given a free bone for the dog too.

Approximate cost: $16.

Fatima's is famous as the home of the best Lebanese felafel in Sydney. Their felafel rolls are not enormous, but they are certainly the freshest and the ratio of ingredients is always perfect. This is a great family business and I always think myself lucky when I'm served by a family member for that extra-special service. The felafel is fried-to order and well worth the wait. One of these days I'll visit to sit down for a full meal and belly-dancing show!

Approximate cost: $5.

Mediterranean style falafel which comes with pickled turnip, etc. This is a real taste sensation. I was recommended to this place and was initially put off by the long queues of slightly drunk patrons on a Friday night. However, the Bondi prices, and the wait, were well worthwhile at this locally famous institution. Open late 7 days.

Approximate cost: $10.

Cheap and cheerful Chinese food accompanied by condiments in little plastic dishes and a tinge of fluorescent lighting. This is a quick and easy, tasty option when you want to eat out without breaking the bank. It's licensed, so you can sit and chat for a while with friends. You might eventually finish your Laksa if you stay long enough~ these are generous serves dished out with fast and friendly service.

Approximate cost: $10.

I like to peruse all the aisles in this beautiful store. This is the place to stock up on quality legumes, fresh spices, pickles, poppadoms, frozen goods like cassava, etc. You can also try something new, like buying a curry tree or cooking with plantains. This is also the place to buy incense, coconut soaps, festival decorations and sari fabric. Perhaps even a giant mortar and pestle or some cookware.

Approximate cost: $5.

This is my sort of hair salon, where I can get in, have a good massage while my hair is washed, have a quick chop with minimal chat, and be home 20 minutes later with a great hairdo...! I'm sure that the chat and longer treatment are there for those who want them too.

Approximate cost: $30.

I was so grateful for this recommendation myself...! On my first visit I had a filling done straight away, without having to go back again and again. George does the work that's required and doesn't add-on unnecessary services. He's one of the best priced dentists I had ever been to. I used to put it off but now I happily go along to the dentist for an annual check-up and delight in knowing I'm doing the best for my teeth.

Approximate cost: $100.

This is my pick from the row of Indian restaurants that decorate Cleveland street. The food is superb and the service is very personal. I've been back time and again for their $13 thali and for shared banquets with friends. Although my partner and I had our first date here, I'd recommend it more for a pre-show dinner or get-togethers with friends. This is mainly due to the tiled floor (serviceable but not so atmospheric) and the distractions of the busy street outside.

Approximate cost: $15.