Sweet Treats

words by james phillips

Sweet Tooth (Noun) – A fondness or craving for sweets.

Fondness is a one way of putting it… I think craving, or maybe addiction, is a little more fitting when it comes to my sweet tooth. There aren’t too many days I like to go without treating myself, and lucky for me (and anyone else who has a fondness for the sweet side of life), Bondi Beach has a few gems that offer a tasty slice of momentary heaven.

The night’s never really finished until you’ve fed the extra sugar loving stomach that’s always got room. I mean can you really say you ‘went out to dinner’ until you’ve had dessert? I don’t think so…

My personal after-dinner favourite is a good ol’ fashioned Ice Cream. The Gelato trade is a booming one down here by the water and the golden shores of Bondi Beach are home to some of the best in the business. Anita is my number one gelateria and has possibly the greatest location in Bondi, on Campbell Parade, right below QT Bondi. The ice creams are so delicious that they’ll be scooping and serving to a packed house the whole year round – rain, hail or shine… and it’s all smiles.

Keep walking and you’ve got Pompei’s street-side gelato stand and Ben & Jerry’s beach front scoop shop and that’s all before you’ve come to the often-heralded ‘Kings of Ice Cream’ – the most instafamous gelato shop in Sydney, Messina. Most don’t miss the opportunity to try their legendary Salted Caramel flavour, the official number #1 cream of the Gelato Giant. With over 40 different flavours to tantalise your taste buds, though, you’re sure to find something you like.

Now, believe it or not, there are people out there that aren’t enticed by the cold creamy goodness of Gelato. Luckily, Bondi caters for all, no matter your freaky disposition. Near the end of Gould St, just before Hall, you’ll find a brightly neon-lit, hole-in-the-wall displaying a variety of unique hand-dipped doughnuts. If you’re into your Nutella and not afraid of diabetes… Doughnut Time will have you covered.

If none of that is scratching your sweet little itch, I guarantee the iconic PAPA Pasticceria has just the right nail. Home to the finest Italian delicacies, this Bondi favourite offers authentic homemade recipes, fresh pastries and cakes that’ll tempt even the most diet-crazy diner. The storefront itself is an absolute feast for the eyes… let alone your mouth! Find it right outside D’Orazio and Bondi Best, in the arcade on Hall St.