Channelling the Euro summer, in Bondi: A step-by-step guide

Bondi Journal
Jul 16
3 min read

It might be winter in Bondi, but let's face it, we're blessed with pretty amazing weather all throughout the year.

… And we'll let you in on a little secret: Bondi is less crowded, and that bit more laidback in the winter.

It's when the locals come out to play, to bask in those beautiful, slightly brisk blue sky days, soak up the clearer-than-ever waters, and relax on the golden sand or popular favourite, the North Bondi grassy knoll.

Bondi has got all the makings of a Euro summer, even in the cooler months, making now the perfect time to say sayonara to the Northern Hemisphere holiday FOMO, and indulge in a little la dolce vita with Sandhurst.

After an authentic taste of the Med?

Then you’ve come to the right place: Sandhurst is all about the antipasto.

In fact, the family-owned business is credited with bringing it to the Australian public for the first time. One might say they’re the experts in antipasto, and all products are preserved in the authentic way to this day.

"The really beautiful thing about Sandhurst is that it was started by an Italian Australian Family back in the 80’s and is still fully owned and run by the same family to this day.

"Vince and Geraldine Lubrano and their sons Mimmo (CEO) and Ray (COO) have created a business that is true to its roots and offers authentic flavour and moments for customers around the world," says Head of Marketing, Tom Galluzzo.

A testament to tradition: every delicious detail matters

Given Sandhurst's history, you can expect a taste of the Euro summer with each and every divine bite – whether it's a smooth and buttery pitted green olive, or the glistening "golden orb of deliciousness" that is the semi-dried tomato.

"There's a special level of care and detail that goes into our products. We focus on quality, on the intricate details, and a lot of decisions are made based on what Nonna would expect," Galluzzo explains.

"Every product has a story, and elevates moments for customers. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on the Riviera, or catching a sunset in Bondi, our products finish off those special moments," he adds.

"The really beautiful thing about Sandhurst is that it was started by an Italian Australian Family back in the 80’s and is still fully owned and run by the same family to this day."

Mastering the art of the aperitivo, the Italian way

Leisurely afternoons, good company, sunshine, and of course, an antipasto platter or two. These are our go-to ingredients for the ultimate aperitivo, so what's on the table, and in the glass?

An array of luscious semi-dried tomatoes, pitted green olives and delicately marinated whole artichokes – a product that has featured in Sandhurst's range from the very beginning – offer the perfect combination of flavours and textures, plus the finishing touch: a generous drizzle of caramelised balsamic.

"Crusty bread and dense biscuits that have additional flavour qualities really help to elevate these products, and a glass of wine, an Aperol Spritz or a Bloody Mary with the perfect mix of Sandhurst garnishes finish off the moment perfectly," Galluzzo says.

From a styling perspective, he recommends doing away with the typical Italian cliches – such as the red and white gingham tablecloth, and taking the effortlessly elegant route.

"Think clean lines, pops of colour courtesy of Sandhurst's products, fresh veg on the table – but nothing that looks too perfect.

"The Italian Aperitivo is all about making memories with family and friends around the table, so a sense of energy, warmth and authenticity is a must, all rounded out with some throwback 1960s tunes. We're talking Frank Sinatra and Etta James – music that has soul and makes you feel like you’re on a constant holiday," adds Galluzzo.

"Crusty bread and dense biscuits that have additional flavour qualities really help to elevate these products, and a glass of wine, an Aperol Spritz or a Bloody Mary with the perfect mix of Sandhurst garnishes finish off the moment perfectly."

It's a Euro summer every day in Bondi

The active outdoor lifestyle (hello, 5am run clubs), locals’ laidback mood and coastal location make Bondi the perfect spot to channel those Italo-vibes.

"Bondi is our version of the Med," says Galluzzo. "People slow down and absorb the moment a bit more here. They take the time to enjoy the simplicity of the perfect bite, whether it’s an olive, or a sip of white wine."