Trust a Melburnian to be behind one of Sydney’s most iconic eateries. Despite the fact it’s the creation of south-of-the-border restaurateur Maurice Terzini, Sydneysiders have been embroiled in a love affair with this gorgeous beachside babe since 2002.

The sleek, sun-lit dining room mirrors the breath-snatching stretch of Bondi Beach below. Cool white walls and sandy-hued rattan chairs offset splashes of aqua and sea green in the form of banquettes and large cushions.

Service is silver, with a decidedly bronzed edge, as ever-professional wait-staff deliver smart, Italian-accented fare. The menu hasn’t evolved much since opening, but Icebergs is on a good thing with dishes such as burrata and Blackmore bresaola; pork belly with radicchio jam and beetroot; and fusilli with broccoli, anchovy and seaweed. A brief brunch menu comes out on Sundays.

Not only is Terzini credited with showing Sydney how best to flaunt its fabulous natural assets, he’s also given New Year’s celebrations a shake-up, as the bold and the beautiful descend for a lavish January 1 affair each year.

Note that the restaurant kitchen closes from 3:30pm until 6:30pm each day. Well-executed bar food is available all day.