Works well for a shared dinner if you want a visually lively room with ornaments and antiques, plus staff who help you choose what to order.

Handy for a Sydney CBD coffee stop: reviews describe a tucked-away arcade-basement space that feels cosy rather than corporate, with a warm greeting and customer-focused staff.

A solid pick for a low-key group meal: it’s described as an unassuming, convivial club with fast service that keeps the night moving.

Works for a birthday or family get-together, with reviews noting Peruvian performances and considerate staff who can switch to English so a mixed group feels at home.

A casual, character-filled club restaurant set in a community tennis centre, and one review describes a packed Father’s Day service with live guitar from a small stage.

A relaxed Thai spot where reviews call out warm, welcoming service, plus the option of road-side seating for street feel or sitting inside when you want it quieter.