Shuk By The Beach

Shuk By The Beach is the Bondi branch of a small Sydney group that runs a restaurant-and-bakery in Bondi, Chatswood, Elizabeth Bay, Surry Hills and The Rocks. This one sits a few steps from the sand on Bondi Beach, which makes it an easy stop before or after a swim. It's a Middle Eastern-leaning takeaway counter with a bakery side, open for breakfast, brunch and lunch, with seating if you'd rather stay.

Falafel is what people keep talking about. Locals rave about the falafel pita and the falafel wrap, and one visitor described the falafel as crunchy and spicy, finished with a hot mango sauce. The chicken shawarma wrap with pickles gets a good word too, and there are bowls built around hummus and falafel, schnitzel or shawarma. Croissants and an acai bowl come up as well, and coffee is a regular reason to drop in. We've heard the food described as fresh from the oven and good value for a beachside spot.

If you eat vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free, there are options across the menu, and they also do catering, delivery and takeaway. The venue is wheelchair accessible and works for families with kids.

Staff are a big part of the reputation. Several people single out the counter team by name for being friendly, quick and welcoming, and one visitor from overseas still raved about a long chat with the person serving them. One person found a bowl a little under-seasoned, and we've heard a couple of grumbles about greetings at the counter on quieter days. People head away happy.

Hours run from early morning through to mid-afternoon on weekdays and a little later on weekends, but check before you head in, especially if you're planning a late lunch. Anyone in Bondi Beach after a fresh falafel pita, a coffee and a spot close to the water will find this an easy one to like.