There’s nothing Christine Manfield can’t do well. Chef, author, food manufacturer, TV presenter and teacher, she’s conquered them all. Universal isn’t just the name of her latest restaurant but the consensus about the entire dining experience.

“Christine Mansfield has done a heap. Her new place is very pleasant.” – Alla Wolf-Tasker

Returning from her award-winning London restaurant East @ West, Manfield set up shop in Sydney’s Darlinghurst so she could bring the world to your plate. Flavours from around the globe are explored through fresh produce in dishes designed to wow. Flavours are bold and full-bodied: try steamed snapper and Iberian ham with fennel and blood orange, or jasmine tea-soaked duck breast and spicy eggplant.

In an industry inundated with liquid nitrogen and deconstructed palettes, Mansfield’s menu is practically old school. She manages to get adventurous without the high tech equipment. Special theme nights are also something new. Try booking in for a Lunar Night. Held every month to mark the full moon, the menus challenge culinary horizons.

If that sounds like it might be too adventurous, swap kitchen garden tips with Stephanie Alexander over an autumn harvest meal on April 20.

Where: Republic 2 Courtyard, Palmer St, Darlinghurst NSW. (02) 9331 0709, www.universalrestaurant.com  

Did you know: Christine Mansfield’s funky, indoor/outdoor Universal restaurant was designed by the equally funky and modern Tina Engelen, who is known for her smart, modern and environmentally savvy designs.