When I mention the Star Casino, what’s the first thing you think of? Gambling, right? Yeah, I get that, me too. That was until I looked a little closer. Let me give you the lowdown on why you can have a brilliant experience here without placing one single bet.
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The Star is Sydney’s only integrated resort, offering nearly everything you may wish to experience if you were staying outside of a major city in a beachside resort – just minus the beach. The precinct itself offers award-winning dining options, fantastic nightlife choices, a 5 star boutique hotel, a 16-room spa that rivals the best available anywhere and a state of the art events centre.
Oh, I should also mention the luxury retail opportunities and a café court that puts your standard food court to shame!
ACCOMMODATION
There are two main choices when it comes to accommodation here at The Star.
First of all, there is the freshly renovated and very swish Astral Tower and Residence which pretty much covers any budget you may have to play with, from standard hotel type rooms, to suites or even a penthouse. You can also grab a few friends or family members and take advantage of 2 or 3 bedroom-serviced apartments. The Astral also features an inviting indoor/outdoor pool and health club, where you can laze about or burn some calories so you can indulge in many of the gastronomical delights on offer – without the guilt trip!
I had the pleasure of staying in The Darling, and she sure is. In fact, the Forbes Travel Guide has just awarded The Darling with the highest ranking of 5 stars, the only Sydney hotel to have such an honour. That speaks volumes.
The rooms are just stunning. Detailed and charismatic and at the same time they give you a relaxed and comfortable vibe.
The beds are what I believe you would call heavenly. Four-hundred-thread Egyptian cotton sheets with a pillow menu that guarantees you the perfect night sleep.
There are three different styles of suites to choose from – The Jewel, with a king size bed, separate living area with its own wet bar! Adored, which gives you that homely feel and features an intimate dining area, king size bedroom, walk in wardrobe and a luxurious marble bathroom. Finally, The Stellar, and this is like having your own mini palace, where the level of comfort is tailored to suit your needs…got to love that.
THE FARE
You could easily eat yourself into a food coma.
I managed to take a small culinary journey with two of The Star’s stars. My first engagement was with the team at Balla where Executive Chef Gabriele Taddeucci presides over an absolute authentic Italian experience with sincere passion.
A tastefully decorated room with a view over across Pyrmont Bay, and I was delighted with the fare offered up. The freshest in sustainable seafood harmonized with mainly organic ingredients and free range meats. The penne with wild tiger prawns and the potato gnocchi with duck ragu were two of the standouts. Absolutely delicious - and very reasonably priced, too.
Sokyo is another experience to savor - Tokyo meets Sydney right here. Chef Chase Kojima shows off all his style and craftsmanship with a pioneering take on contemporary flavours.
Sashimi, Tempura, Robata and Nigiri. Flavours that will blow your mind and your taste buds away! Also, if you have never tried sake, then you have to try it here. Take advantage of Fabio Nistrio’s knowledge as a sommelier as he matches a different sake with each of your dishes to give you an understanding into this historic Japanese delight.
I must have only ever tasted rubbish because now I know sake can be as impressive as a fine wine.
ENTERTAINMENT
I love being schooled sometimes and once again I was reminded that I do not know everything! The Staar has a state-of-the-art events centre that provides absolute tops shelf shows. Coming up soon - Lionel Ritchie returns to get you all dancing on the ceiling! There is also The Sydney Lyric, which always puts on a great show. Coming in September is Beautiful - The Carole King story. Previously they have showcased Strictly Ballroom, Phantom, Mama Mia and Priscilla.
Add to this some very cool bars and a couple of groovy (can I still use that word) nightclubs, and your entertainment needs are more than fulfilled.
THE UPSHOT
I have to admit I was delightfully surprised and will make my way back here for a little midweek break or even a romantic weekend away. Fine foods, charming accommodation, engaging entertainment and a location that has you on the doorstep of the wonderful city of Sydney and all it has to offer.
Scott was a guest of The Star Sydney.
Scott is the host of ‘A Taste of Travel’ on the TEN/WIN Networks. For more, www.scottmcrae.com.au