We've eaten here twice this year - wonderful modern food - fantastic selection for vegetarians - and amazing desserts (gay time, little miss sunshine and the ginger meggs were standouts) - plus a fantastic selection of wines, very cool staff and a great location - so sad to hear its closing soon, get in while u can!!!

For a detailed review and photos from my recent dining experience see the following link: http://foodmab.blogspot.com.au/2013/04/universal-19-april-2013.html The food, overall, was generally good and quite enjoyable. The desserts are especially good. The Gaytime Goes Nuts dessert deserves its reputation as one of Sydney's best desserts at a fine dining restaurant. Christine Manfield is Australia’s queen of spices, with a reputation for... More

As other reviewers have noted, Christine Manfield will be closing Universal at the end of April and, also like other reviewers, I'm sorry I didn't have the opportunity to visit it more often during its six year run. I dined with a table of several friends and the service staff were outstanding - knowledgeable, friendly, relaxed, professional and accommodating. I'm... More

We came for the first time last year. It was not as good this year, only 5 out 5, instead of 6. Last time I thought it was one of the top 5 meals I had ever had. This time one of our dining companions said it was their best meal ever. Very sad that it is closing.

Have been here twice now. It is expensive for what you get, but everything tastes great. I think the plates are meant to be shared. Good wine choices

Perhaps went back too soon, the food is wonderful but the magic was not te same. One good feature is that the menu changes regularly unlike many others that stay the same for years. We had different waiters and I missed the talents of the sommelier who had looked after us so well on our previous visit but this is... More

We couldn't believe it when we managed to park in Palmer Street exactly opposite the restaurant. If this was an omen, the rest of evening surely would not disappoint. And it didn't. The restaurant is intimate and the service impeccable. We had the three course degustation, where you choose three courses from the menu in the order you wish to... More

I was fortunate enough to dine at universal last weekend with a group of friends and can only say I was blown away! Amazing service, atmosphere and, of course, the food. The size of our group meant we got to try almost everything on the menu and every dish was perfect. I loved the kingfish shashimi and a perculiar little... More

What a shame this restaurant is closing, for ever, at the end of April. I dined with my wife recently and could have absolutely kicked myself for not having gone sooner and more frequently. Visited on a buzzy and busy Friday evening. The staff and service were spot on, even to standing out in the rain to get us a... More