We're officially on the cusp of another Australian Fashion Week. We're alive, we're at the ready, and we've got hot spots to share. There's an art to the survival of Australian Fashion Week, and to prep and prime the masses, we've got tips to go around. In between shows, fittings, and capturing the best off-duty street style on the ground at Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) we have to make time for sustenance and rejuvenation.

Looking to escape the barrage at Circular Quay? Hankering after the perfect post-show drink? In the mood for a little R&R, or a hot-footing about town? We've got it all. And our guide is tried and tested. Scroll below for the RUSSH editors' survival guide.

For a bite to eat ...

Neptune's Grotto is a notoriously fabulous dinner spot nearby that we'd highly recommend for something long and luxurious. Though we'd definitely recommend you book well ahead, it's worth it for those buttery agnolottis and their famous Grandma slices of focaccia.

Bar Allora, on the corner of George Street and Bond Street, is a great spot to drop in for an morning caffeine hit, a hot lunch or a boozy dinner. They do $25 express lunches Tuesday–Friday (for those looking for a bargain plate of pasta), dinner Tuesday–Saturday and Espresso Al Banco's (standing espressos at the bar) for $1.50 daily, along with bomboloni, cornetti and panini passed through a street-facing window to commuters. They also have an Aperitivo Hour from 12–1pm and again at 4–6pm Tuesday through Saturday.

For a post-show aperitivo ...

Your first port of call would be Bar Tigra, which is open from lunchtime until 2am every day of Fashion Week. They have a daily happy hour from 4-6pm (which is when we'd recommend heading in). They serve up house cocktails, beers and an extensive wine list, alongside a menu of bar snacks from caviar to rock oysters, Focaccia, Cheeses and even some Mapo Gelato to top things off.

If you're looking for somewhere a little fancy, we'd take you to Clam Bar – though we'd suggest to book ahead. This is a sultry, New York-style restaurant and grill famed for their martinis. (Even the Sydney Morning Herald said it was home to Sydney's best).

And for the whisky drinkers amongst us, the Happy Hour at Whisky Thief (located inside Prefecture 48) is too good to pass up. Think: $12 drinks from 5-7pm. Need we say more?

For an end-of-night boogie ...

If you're looking for somewhere to move and shake (and aren't afraid of a bit of a line), we'd tell you to head to The Caterpillar Club. It's a swanky, dimly lit cocktail bar and lounge styled after an underground speakeasy with small booths and bar seating. Live bands take the stage and DJs spin till close (which is between 3-5am depending on the night of the week).

If you want to cosplay being at New York Fashion Week instead of Sydney, head to Curtains Jazz Club. Open from 5pm until late, every night of the week, the major draw card here is live jazz music every night.

For when you need to pause...

Wander through Aesop The Rocks, and treat your busy hands to an aromatic salve. Maybe pick up a refill or two – or simply enjoy the serenity of their beautifully designed store.

If you have a little more time on your hands, we'd recommend making a booking at Endota Spa at The Rocks. Opt for a facial, massage or even a simple foot soak for some R&R.

For a quick refresh, you could always head over to Observatory Hill Park for a quick wander amongst the greenery and a breath of fresh air.

For the perfect sweet treat ...

A.P Quay is our go-to for a pick-me-up. Sweets-wise, you'll find all the classics from buttery croissants to danishes laden with cream and fresh fruit. It's also a great spot for a quick lunch (their sandwiches filled with spit-roasted meats are second to none).

If you're short on time, it's hard to go past a scoop (or two, or three) of Gelato Messina in Circular Quay. If you find yourself there on Monday, you can make the most of their 'Messina Mondays' discounted prices.

For a between-shows refresh...

Nothing makes us feel brand new like a blow dry, and Koda Cutters' QVB location is the perfect spot for that. Sip a coffee (or champagne) while they work their magic and leave ready to sit front row.

Capella Sydney's Auriga Spa is a haven in the midst of the CBD. Indulge in a rejuvenating treatment when your nervous system feels like it needs a moment, and then take your time in the steam room, sauna, and ice fountain to really dial things up a notch.

Feature image: one, two, three, four.