Spice Temple, A World Away.

In the depths of a building on Bligh Street, Sydney, our second adventure took place. Spice Temple, Neil Perry's take on modern Chinese. Reminiscent of an opium den (actually, I'm really not sure that it was reminiscent of an opium den, given I've never been to one, but work with me, I'm trying to set a scene here!) I felt like I was a world away.

The smell of spice filled the dimly lit air as we welcomed two new adventurers to the fold.

The menu was delightful. Spice combined with fresh herbs and flavours.

"Three shot chicken. I'm sure he cooked that on Poh's cooking show," said adventurer L.

"I think that's the one they make at your table?"

"Like restaurant theatre?" my sister proposed.

After our waiter explained that those items on the menu in red were the hottest, we settled on our order.

An entree of eggplant, garlic, coriander and sweet pork mince arrived in a beautifully hand crafted bowl. As the waiter tossed it before our eyes our anticipation rose. The combination of flavours was amazing, and this, most definitely, was my dish of the night.

As we filled steamed bread pockets with cumin spiced lamb I was one happy adventurer.

The three shot chicken arrived. Shots of Chinese larger, soy sauce and chilli oil were added at the table, as the dish was left to simmer before our eyes. The flavours were divine.

We shared our favourite Sydney foodie finds, from markets to hole in the wall noodle houses while enjoying other treats. Dumplings; roast pork belly with coriander, red onion, peanuts and sesame seeds; and a dish of braised duck with tofu, dried chestnuts and baby leeks.

We dared to glace at the desert menu. The "cheeky palate cleanser" and warm pineapple cake with caramel cream appealed. But alas, we were beaten.

As I glanced around the busy space a buzz of contentment filled the room. I really did feel a million miles away.