At one of the most Iconic venues in Sydney, boasting panoramic views of Sydney harbour we took our foodies on ‘Safari’. On this surprisingly warm winters night, our guests were told to meet at Darling Harbour and catch the 6.55pm ferry to Taronga Zoo for an event of a lifetime. They were in for an adventure.

Greeted by Ms Darlinghurst on the wharf, everyone was transported through the dark of the night to the famous sky Safari. As we moved upwards the city lights illuminated the night sky and we all knew we were in for a treat. As we hopped off we were then taken through the zoo stopping occasionally to hear the faint sounds of the animals or to see the red monkeys lurking behind the trees. As we walked into the venue, African music was playing in the background while David Attenborough’s ‘Safari’ documentary playfully teased guests with what was to come. The drinks were being poured and guests mingled as out came a python snake and lizard to interact with the guests. The animals stayed until chef, Sean Connelly’s delectable canapés were being ready to serve. Sean’s duck pie floaters, crispy basil prawns and mushrooms cigars were a huge hit amongst the guests.

Everyone was seated and next came our entrée of Scampi Sashimi with chilli, coriander and extra virgin olive oil. We were spoilt with high-quality table service where all guests had to worry about was getting to know the person next to them and enjoying amazing food.

What came out next was the culinary highlight of the night. Plates of Grass Fed Eye Fillet with Potato Fondant, Portobello Mushroom, Watercress with Miso Mayonnaise were placed in front of us. The meat was perfectly cooked and melted in your mouth and was complimented by the soft mushrooms and crunch of the potatoes.

As desserts were being served Sean Connolly entertained us with his charming sense of humour and told us in his spare time he liked to be wined and dined. We delved into Lemon Delicious with Raspberry Sorbet and drunk the last of our drinks as the night began to wrap up.

This was the ultimate surprise dining experience for all Secret Foodie fans, and everyone left with a full belly and memories they will never forget.