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What went on:  Turkish food lovers joined the Turkish Consulate and Australian media at a one-off celebration dinner to commemorate the cuisine of Istanbul. Hosted by Chef Somer Sivrioglu of Efendy Restaurant in Balmain and Turkish cookbook author Deniz Gokturk Akcakanat, the evening was a journey of never ending authentic Turkish fare, breads and pastries, live Turkish music from Alin and Melike and warm Turkish hospitality.

What we’re addicted to: Turkish cuisine is a millennium+ old (they've had time to perfect a rich mix of regional styles) and it's difficult not to be delighted by traditional recipes and their mezes (small tapas like dishes). Think Kadayifli Karides (Shredded pastry wrapped king prawns, walnut, capsicum, garlic muhammara) and Saksuka (traditional sauteed potato, zucchini, eggplant with mint yoghurt).

What we’re not: Ok, it has to be said, whilst Koc Yumurtasi (Pan-fried lamb testicles, almond garlic tarator) might taste favourable it's just too difficult a mental barrier to overcome. Turkish psychic Deniz was on hand to give coffee cup readings - one editor is sure she's not going to end up living in the Blue Mountains any time soon.

What else:
Turkish Bakery Delight by Deniz Akcakanat is published by New Holland RRP: $29.95
October 13 -17 - Sydney International Food Festival 2010 Showcase Dinners with Musa Dagdeviren from Istanbul's Ciya at Efendy www.Efendy.com.au

Date: 19 August 2010

Location: Efendy restaurant, Balmain

-Hui

What went on: Bvlgari unveiled a modern day reinterpretation of its Serpenti watch. The original 1950's collection was specially sent over from Italy as part of the evening's exhibit.

What we're addicted to: The 38 diamonds and pink rubellite cabochon encrusted in the timepiece

What we're not: The number of dollars we will have to part with to own one of these exquisite watches

What else: The Serpenti collection will be available from September 2010

Date: 16 June 2010

Location: Bvlgari Boutique, Castlereagh St, Sydney

-Hui

The vitals: The Australian Final of the World Class Competition 2010 

What went on:  A selection of canapés paired to luxurious spirits and exceptional cocktails created by Australia’s top bartending talent. Celebrating the World Class Competition – the art of bartending, putting the best bartenders across the nation through grueling tests of creativity and skill to find the best bartender in Australia.  After a day of competing in the Australian World Class Final Adam Brewer from Sling Lounge was announced the winner and chosen to represent Australia in the Global Final in Greece. 

What we're addicted to: The pure invention process. Case in point: Jan Liska of Sydney’s Zeta Bar for his unique culinary twist on the classic breakfast martini. The drink was served with chamomile tea and hot waffle toast topped with homemade Tanqueray No. TEN marmalade and an ice cream infused with the flavours of bacon and eggs. 

What we're not: There’s really only so much you can drink in one day. We’re the responsible type you know. 

What else: Drop into Eau-de-Vie to sample the drinks that Elle Wormald made to win the cocktail round with.  Find out more at www.weareworldclass.com 

Date: 8 June 2010 

Location: Private Residence, Dover’s Heights 

Read our feature here:

http://www.dailyaddict.com.au/lifestylefeature/Eau+De+Vie+Bar:+Play+it+again,...

The vitals: Preview of la prairie’s new range, White Caviar Illuminating Systeme 

What went on:  President Lynne Florio flew in from New York to launch la prairie’s newest range, White Caviar Illuminating Systeme.

What we're addicted to: Lynne Florio’s passion for her company, champagne, caviar canapés and a divine goody bag with peerless lightening and lifting benefits.

What we're not: The torrential rain that evening and walking down a very steep and wet driveway. Candle thieves.

What else: La Prairie’s White Caviar Illuminating Systeme range is available 27 September 2010.

Location: Tivoli Villa, Rose Bay Sydney

Date: 7 June 2010

Every now and then you come across an unfamiliar part of Sydney – stand still and exist in a state of awe.

It doesn't happen often, but when it does, you'd like to share it, so don’t be surprised that you’ll be hearing a lot more about White Rabbit Gallery from us.

Five months in for the largest private art museum in Oz and it’s already one of Sydney's must-sees. Here's a glimpse of why:

“The Tao of Now” opens today until 1 August 2010, read our full feature out on Monday.

Thanks to the Neilson Foundation for inviting us to be one of the first to see the fruits of their ground-breaking vision.