Icebergs, Bondi Beach is iconic. But it’s also the best place in Sydney for steak by the beach. Story – Jessica Adams.

Sign your name and address at the door and you’re into Bondi Icebergs Bistro. Visitors to Australia are often confused by its strange club rules, but there’s no drama here, as the bouncer might say – just write your name in the visitor’s book, and go in.

Paris Hilton launched her beer here, and plenty of famous swimmers have done laps of the stunning swimming pool, down below. Iceberg’s has the best AUD$25 dinner in Sydney (with a strong Australian wine list and excellent steak) and it’s so deeply Australian that if you’re a first-time visitor to the country, you could spend an hour here and feel as if you’re actually beginning to understand what this country is all about. Totally unpretentious, very sporty, and 100% matey.

The pool is a big part of the deal along with the ocean views. The swimming pool’s official title is Bondi Baths and its turquoise water and beachside setting has become part of any global TV news segment about Sydney, along with the thousands of massed Bondi Beach apartments in the background. Swim before you dine, or hop in the sea if it’s sunny. Iceberg’s Bistro is just a short walk up from the beach (look up above the pool and you’ll see it, luring you with its menu).

Here’ s a tip to avoid the crowds – have breakfast here at 9am on the weekends. You’ll land a table with a view if you’re first in the queue. The atmosphere in the bistro is basic, blokey and sporty but as you try your Sydney oysters with a glass of something nice from the Hunter Valley, you’ll begin to understand why this is the first stop for so many women visiting Sydney for the first time.

The far more glamorous (and pricey) bar and restaurant is adjacent. That’s Icebergs Dining Room and Bar, which is a completely different experience again. Supermodels and actors turn right.

We love them both for different reasons – but to get your Australian fix, start with the place the Bondi locals favour, even if you’re just chasing toast and muesli on Saturday morning.

Bondi Icebergs

1 Notts Avenue, Bondi Beach