Foley Lane

While Sydney has no lack of tapas choice, there is a lack of the 'walk in, quaff a red, split an Ortiz tin, move on to the next joint' variety that so defines the quintessentially Spanish experience. Enter Foley Lane, where a slick New York-ness licks through a high-ceilinged, high-tabled space with handsome tiled walls, industrial lampshades and an Art Deco facade that's as charming as the staff. The bar well suits the aforementioned quick-bite eating, but a lengthy menu and comfy wall-side seating encourage a longer stay. Dishes are designed for one or two, so ask for a rioja and order as you go. Schools of fried whitebait perform swimmingly, tostadas topped with plump bits of chicken, avocado and coriander are tapas for all seasons, and a chorizo montadito with guindilla salsa and wispy potato is an absolute cracker. Sadly, a chocolate marquise was a tad underwhelming - play it safe with ever-reliable churros instead.