Bondi - The Dinner Party is Back in Vogue

Dinner parties are making a comeback in a BIG WAY.

As we all reassess our credit-binge lifestyles and conspicous consumption, the good old-fashioned meal around the table with friends is having a resurgence.
But a good dinner party isn't easy to do. It's not really about what you serve (although that is important). It's not really about who you invite (although balancing the mix of personalities can be fraught with danger for the novice). It's not really about the conversation (although a few stimulating debates can help any meal soar) and it's not really about getting everyone sloshed (although that helps!).
The essence of a great dinner party is the genuine warmth and hospitality of the hosts. It's instinctual and organic and learned largely from your own inherited family food experiences. Good hosts relax their guests, and most importantly have a good time themselves.

On Saturday we were invited to a dinner party in Bondi that sets the bar on all these levels.

An assortment of agents provocateur gathered around a long rustic table surrounded by artwork and books and discussed the issues of our times. Ask me now what we talked about and the details are vague. But I did stagger home with a warm outer glow from the wonderful food and wine and a warm inner glow from sharing time with people who think and care.
Is it pretty obvious I'm angling for another invite?


Salt and pepper crusted beef barbecued on the Weber

Baked new potatoes with garlic aioli

Green leaf Salad


Old-fashioned Apple Pie with vanilla ice-cream