I don't live in Sydney, but I work in it and pass through it's suburbs by train on working days. I always marvel at how different the north, south, eastern and western suburbs of Sydney are, and like all for different reasons.

The western suburbs, especially those around Parramatta, are among my favourites. I worked in Parramatta for years and commuted to it from the Central Coast passing through Lidcombe, Auburn, Granville and Harris Park. I've watched as these suburbs have gone through quite dramatic transformations over the past decade, and Auburn, better known for its high-profile former deputy mayor, is still changing.


If you've not ventured to Sydney's western suburbs, Flavours of Auburn is an easy way to be introduced to these suburbs and learn about the multicultural influences of Auburn and some of the other suburbs.

Food tours and cooking classes are run by members of the Auburn Small Community Organisation Network and support the area's asylum-seeking, refugee and migrant members.


As well as supporting the local community, and individuals, you will leave well fed and with a new appreciation for what's only a short drive or train ride away.

In Auburn you'll visit Real Turkish Delight and sample the sweet treat, made on the premises to an age-old recipe. I like a jewel-coloured rose Turkish Delight, but I'd walk over hot coals for the pistachio, hazelnut and coconut or almond flavours. It's probably a good thing they don't sell online.


Delicious hot bread from Kabul Bakery served with a glass of cooling pomegranate cordial is such simple fare but I don't have the words to explain how good it is, and served up to sop up the juices from lunch at Gada's Big Bite, is next level.

Signs for pizza and burgers that mark the entrance to Gada's are deceptive, but walk inside and pile a plate high with selections from the buffet and you may want to move to Auburn just to eat this every.single.day. My partner and I were trying to decide our top five culinary experiences of the year earlier this week, and Gada's Big Bite is in my top five.


Auburn Bakery, with it's date-filled sweet, buttery treats; Auburn Fresh Juice Centre, serving saffron ice cream and a signature ice cream that tasted to me like the faluda ice blocks I went mad for in Sri Lanka last year.

A visit to a supermarket and other local businesses round out the trip and if you're anything like me, you'll fill the handy shopping bag you're handed at the start of the tour with treats to take home and share (or not) with the family.

To book a Flavours of Auburn food tour or cooking class visit flavoursofauburn.com.au.