Ben Hansen

Ben Hansen is the Junior Editor at Concrete Playground. Ben is Sydney's biggest advocate — a passionate supporter of the city's hospitality and art scenes. You can catch him sipping a negroni at your local bar, barracking for the Eels at CommBank Stadium or on your radio as host of FBi Radio's Mornings every Wednesday.

Favourite restaurant in Sydney: Baba's Place. Minimal-intervention wines, inventive eats, great tunes, friendly staff and a love for all things suburban, all hidden in a Marrickville warehouse. What more could you want?

News
Casa Esquina Is Balmain's Friendly New Argentinian Restaurant From the Tequila Mockingbird Team

Affordable midweek meals, whole suckling pig, South American wines, and a Fernet-Branca and Coke cocktail — they're all on offer in the former Efendy space.

{"id":940739,"type":"food-2","icon":"newspaper-clipping","info":"","name":"Casa Esquina Is Balmain's Friendly New Argentinian Restaurant From the Tequila Mockingbird Team","description":"Affordable midweek meals, whole suckling pig, South American wines, and a Fernet-Branca and Coke cocktail \u2014 they're all on offer in the former Efendy space.","thumbnail":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/casa-esquire-balmain-credit-steven-woodburn-488x300.jpg","photo":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/casa-esquire-balmain-credit-steven-woodburn.jpg","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/food-drink\/casa-esquina-argentinian-restaurant-balmain","latitude":"","longitude":"","address":"","booking":"","archive":{"title":"News","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/latest"},"banners":[{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/casa-esquire-balmain-credit-steven-woodburn.jpg","alt":"Casa Esquina Is Balmain's Friendly New Argentinian Restaurant From the Tequila Mockingbird Team"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/casa-esquire-balmain-credit-steven-woodburn-8.jpg","alt":"Casa Esquina Is Balmain's Friendly New Argentinian Restaurant From the Tequila Mockingbird Team"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/casa-esquire-balmain-credit-steven-woodburn-7.jpg","alt":"Casa Esquina Is Balmain's Friendly New Argentinian Restaurant From the Tequila Mockingbird Team"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/casa-esquire-balmain-credit-steven-woodburn-9.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/casa-esquire-balmain-credit-steven-woodburn-5.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/casa-esquire-balmain-credit-steven-woodburn-6.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/casa-esquire-balmain-credit-steven-woodburn-2.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/casa-esquire-balmain-credit-steven-woodburn-7.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/casa-esquire-balmain-credit-steven-woodburn-3.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/casa-esquire-balmain-credit-steven-woodburn-4.jpg","alt":""}]}
Event
Two Queers Comedy Festival

Fri, 16 Feb - Thu, 29 Feb 2024
Various Sydney venues, Sydney

Two Queers Walk Into a Bar is throwing a two-week comedy festival featuring a huge opening night gala and a new show from Zoe Coombs Marr.

Buy Tickets

{"id":940659,"type":"event","icon":"calendar","info":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp class=\"dates\"\u003EFri, 16 Feb - Thu, 29 Feb 2024\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp class=\"nearestPlace\"\u003EVarious Sydney venues, Sydney\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","name":"Two Queers Comedy Festival","description":"Two Queers Walk Into a Bar is throwing a two-week comedy festival featuring a huge opening night gala and a new show from Zoe Coombs Marr.","thumbnail":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/two-queers-walk-into-a-bar-Photo-credit-Nick-Robertson-488x300.jpg","photo":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/two-queers-walk-into-a-bar-Photo-credit-Nick-Robertson.jpg","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/event\/two-queers-comedy-festival","latitude":"-33.8587567","longitude":"151.2036359","address":", Sydney","booking":" \u003Csection class=\"book black ga-send\" data-current-type=\"tribe_events\" \u003E\n \u003Ca class=\"book_online_anchor\" href=\"https:\/\/events.humanitix.com\/host\/636827e3ee0248cc811f77f7\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\n \u003Ci class='ph ph-ticket'\u003E\u003C\/i\u003EBuy Tickets\n \u003C\/a\u003E\n \u003C\/section\u003E","archive":{"title":"Event","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/events"},"banners":[{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/two-queers-comedy-credit-andy-mullins.jpg","alt":"Two Queers Comedy Festival"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/two-queers-walk-into-a-bar-Photo-credit-Nick-Robertson.jpg","alt":"Two Queers Comedy Festival"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/two-queers-comedy-supplied.jpg","alt":"Two Queers Comedy Festival"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Nina-Oyama_Brisbane-Comedy-Festival_supplied.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/jazz-or-a-bucket-of-blood-sydney-fringe-supplied.jpg","alt":"Two comedians in grey shirts and blood on their mouths holding Bunnings hats as part of the production 'Jazz, or a Bucket of Blood'"}]}
News
Maiz Has Moved Its Vibrant Mexican Eats and Bottomless Brunch to a Sleek New Enmore Road Space

Maiz 2.0 brings weekend brunch with loaded tortas, an affordable set menu and a special Yulli's corn cerveza to the old Hartsyard digs.

{"id":940282,"type":"food-2","icon":"newspaper-clipping","info":"","name":"Maiz Has Moved Its Vibrant Mexican Eats and Bottomless Brunch to a Sleek New Enmore Road Space","description":"Maiz 2.0 brings weekend brunch with loaded tortas, an affordable set menu and a special Yulli's corn cerveza to the old Hartsyard digs.","thumbnail":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/maiz-enmore-road-supplied-488x300.jpg","photo":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/maiz-enmore-road-supplied.jpg","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/food-drink\/maiz-enmore-road","latitude":"","longitude":"","address":"","booking":"","archive":{"title":"News","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/latest"},"banners":[{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/maiz-enmore-road-supplied.jpg","alt":"Maiz on Enmore Road - one of the best Mexican restaurants in Sydney."},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/maiz-enmore-raod-credit-debbie-gallulo-3.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/maiz-enmore-raod-credit-debbie-gallulo.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/maiz-newtown-Torta-Abuela-credit-Debbie-Gallulo.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/maiz-enmore-raod-credit-debbie-gallulo-1.jpg","alt":""}]}
Event
Sydney Lunar Festival

Sat, 10 Feb - Sun, 25 Feb 2024
Chinatown, Haymarket

Celebrate the Year of the Dragon as Haymarket is taken over by performances, market stalls, themed feasts, lion dances and dragon boat racing.

{"id":884516,"type":"event","icon":"calendar","info":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp class=\"dates\"\u003ESat, 10 Feb - Sun, 25 Feb 2024\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp class=\"nearestPlace\"\u003EChinatown, Haymarket\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","name":"Sydney Lunar Festival","description":"Celebrate the Year of the Dragon as Haymarket is taken over by performances, market stalls, themed feasts, lion dances and dragon boat racing.","thumbnail":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/sydney-lunar-festival-supplied-city-of-sydney-488x300.jpg","photo":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/sydney-lunar-festival-supplied-city-of-sydney.jpg","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/event\/sydney-lunar-festival","latitude":"-33.881066","longitude":"151.20314600000006","address":", Haymarket","booking":"","archive":{"title":"Event","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/events"},"banners":[{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/sydney-lunar-festival-supplied-city-of-sydney.jpg","alt":"Sydney Lunar Festival"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Sydney-Lunar-New-Year-Lion-Dancers-City-of-Sydney-Image-suppliedjpg.jpg.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/Haymarket2_Image-Credit_Katherine-Griffiths_City-of-Sydney-Large.jpg","alt":""}]}
News
Now Open: The Lower North Shore Has Welcomed Its Latest BYO Stunner Niche Mosman

This crowd-pleasing breakfast joint offering bottomless rosé brunch transforms into a cosy neighbourhood diner with brown butter swordfish and $8 happy hour wines as the sun sets.

{"id":940081,"type":"food-2","icon":"newspaper-clipping","info":"","name":"Now Open: The Lower North Shore Has Welcomed Its Latest BYO Stunner Niche Mosman","description":"This crowd-pleasing breakfast joint offering bottomless ros\u00e9 brunch transforms into a cosy neighbourhood diner with brown butter swordfish and $8 happy hour wines as the sun sets.","thumbnail":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/niche-mosman-supplied-2-488x300.jpg","photo":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/niche-mosman-supplied-2.jpg","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/food-drink\/niche-mosman-cafe-restaurant-byo-happy-hour","latitude":"","longitude":"","address":"","booking":"","archive":{"title":"News","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/latest"},"banners":[{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/niche-mosman-supplied-2.jpg","alt":"Now Open: The Lower North Shore Has Welcomed Its Latest BYO Stunner Niche Mosman"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/niche-mosman-supplied.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/niche-mosman-credit-katje-ford.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/niche-mosman-supplied-1.jpg","alt":""}]}
Event
A Blueprint for Ruins

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 - Sun, 12 May 2024
White Rabbit Gallery, Chippendale

White Rabbit Gallery's latest stunning exhibition explores forgotten humanity in hyper-modern cities.

{"id":940049,"type":"event","icon":"calendar","info":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp class=\"dates\"\u003EWed, 20 Dec 2023 - Sun, 12 May 2024\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp class=\"nearestPlace\"\u003EWhite Rabbit Gallery, Chippendale\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","name":"A Blueprint for Ruins","description":"White Rabbit Gallery's latest stunning exhibition explores forgotten humanity in hyper-modern cities.","thumbnail":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Level-2-A-Blueprint-for-Ruins_2-Photography-Hamish-McIntosh-488x300.jpg","photo":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Level-2-A-Blueprint-for-Ruins_2-Photography-Hamish-McIntosh.jpg","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/event\/a-blueprint-for-ruins","latitude":"-33.8865","longitude":"151.2","address":"30 Balfour Street, Chippendale","booking":"","archive":{"title":"Event","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/events"},"banners":[{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/CHEN-WEI-\u9648\u7ef4-Drunken-Dance-Hall-2015-wood-steel-luminescent-paint-broken-glass-lights-acrylic-mirrors-site-specific-dimensions-variable_46-Photography-Hamish-McIntosh.jpg","alt":"A Blueprint for Ruins"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/OUYANG-CHUN-\u6b27\u9633\u6625-Volcanic-Ash-2013-Bronze-installed-approximately-20-x-400-x-500-cm-Photography-Hamish-McIntosh.jpg","alt":"A Blueprint for Ruins"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/YUAN-SHUN-\u8881\u987aSoft-Landing2018woodsand-lights-fog-machine-stones-aluminium-just-using-4-panels-400-x-400-cm-total_4-Photography-Hamish-McIntosh.jpg","alt":"A Blueprint for Ruins"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/CHEN-WEI-\u9648\u7ef4-Drunken-Dance-Hall-2015-wood-steel-luminescent-paint-broken-glass-lights-acrylic-mirrors-site-specific-dimensions-variable_10-Photography-Hamish-McIntosh.jpg","alt":"A Blueprint for Ruins"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Level-2-A-Blueprint-for-Ruins_2-Photography-Hamish-McIntosh.jpg","alt":"A Blueprint for Ruins"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/ZHANG-DALI-\u5f20\u5927\u529b-Square-9-2014-resin-180-x-170-x-90-cm_3-Photography-Hamish-McIntosh.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Ground-Level-A-Blueprint-for-Ruins-Photography-Hamish-McIntosh.jpg","alt":""}]}
News
The Cantina OK! Team Has Nailed the Brief Once Again with Its Expansive New CBD Cocktail Bar Centro 86

A top-secret Pitt Street basement has been transformed into a bustling underground cantina with one-of-a-kind cocktails until 2am, seven days a week.

{"id":939638,"type":"drink","icon":"newspaper-clipping","info":"","name":"The Cantina OK! Team Has Nailed the Brief Once Again with Its Expansive New CBD Cocktail Bar Centro 86","description":"A top-secret Pitt Street basement has been transformed into a bustling underground cantina with one-of-a-kind cocktails until 2am, seven days a week.","thumbnail":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/centro-86-credit-dexter-kim-6-488x300.jpg","photo":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/centro-86-credit-dexter-kim-6.jpg","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/food-drink\/centro-86-underground-cbd-cocktail-bar-open-late","latitude":"","longitude":"","address":"","booking":"","archive":{"title":"News","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/latest"},"banners":[{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/centro-86-credit-dexter-kim-6.jpg","alt":"The Cantina OK! Team Has Nailed the Brief Once Again with Its Expansive New CBD Cocktail Bar Centro 86"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/centro-86-credit-dexter-kim-2.jpg","alt":"The Cantina OK! Team Has Nailed the Brief Once Again with Its Expansive New CBD Cocktail Bar Centro 86"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/centro-86-credit-dexter-kim-1.jpg","alt":"The Cantina OK! Team Has Nailed the Brief Once Again with Its Expansive New CBD Cocktail Bar Centro 86"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/centro-86-credit-dexter-kim-5.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/centro-86-credit-dexter-kim-3.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/centro-86-credit-dexter-kim-4.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/centro-86-credit-dexter-kim-8.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/centro-86-credit-dexter-kim-7.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/centro-86-credit-dexter-kim.jpg","alt":""}]}
News
Now Open: Tanuki Is Double Bay's Fun-Loving New Izakaya with an Ex-Sushi e Chef at the Helm

The Matteo team has opened another Bay Street winner with this vibrant new Japanese bar and diner.

{"id":939576,"type":"food-2","icon":"newspaper-clipping","info":"","name":"Now Open: Tanuki Is Double Bay's Fun-Loving New Izakaya with an Ex-Sushi e Chef at the Helm","description":"The Matteo team has opened another Bay Street winner with this vibrant new Japanese bar and diner.","thumbnail":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/tanuki-supplied-6-488x300.jpg","photo":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/tanuki-supplied-6.jpg","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/food-drink\/tanuki-double-bay-matteo-crew","latitude":"","longitude":"","address":"","booking":"","archive":{"title":"News","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/latest"},"banners":[{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/tanuki-supplied-6.jpg","alt":"Now Open: Tanuki Is Double Bay's Fun-Loving New Izakaya with an Ex-Sushi e Chef at the Helm"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/tanuki-supplied-2.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/tanuki-supplied-5.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/tanuki-supplied-1.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/tanuki-supplied-7.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/tanuki-supplied.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/tanuki-supplied-4.jpg","alt":""}]}
News
E-Scooters Could Finally Be Legalised in NSW with Sydney's First Trial Kicking Off in Kogarah

Sydney's first official e-scooter trial is currently underway, with 60 Beam scooters being introduced to south Sydney.

{"id":938954,"type":"leisure","icon":"newspaper-clipping","info":"","name":"E-Scooters Could Finally Be Legalised in NSW with Sydney's First Trial Kicking Off in Kogarah","description":"Sydney's first official e-scooter trial is currently underway, with 60 Beam scooters being introduced to south Sydney.","thumbnail":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/e-scooter-unsplash-488x300.jpg","photo":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/e-scooter-unsplash.jpg","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/travel-leisure\/leisure\/sydney-e-scooter-trial","latitude":"","longitude":"","address":"","booking":"","archive":{"title":"News","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/latest"},"banners":[{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2021\/03\/e-scooter-unsplash.jpg","alt":"E-Scooters Could Finally Be Legalised in NSW with Sydney's First Trial Kicking Off in Kogarah"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/Beam_Brisbane_02_supplied.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Lime-escooter-girl-supplied.jpg","alt":""}]}
News
There's Something for Everyone at Clarence Street's New Basement Cocktail Bar Now and Then

Pét-nats and sage-infused spritzes meet shandys and sherry cobblers at the new subterranean spot from the Door Knock team.

{"id":938834,"type":"drink","icon":"newspaper-clipping","info":"","name":"There's Something for Everyone at Clarence Street's New Basement Cocktail Bar Now and Then","description":"P\u00e9t-nats and sage-infused spritzes meet shandys and sherry cobblers at the new subterranean spot from the Door Knock team.","thumbnail":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/now-and-then-supplied-488x300.jpg","photo":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/now-and-then-supplied.jpg","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/food-drink\/now-and-then-cocktail-bar-sydney-cbd","latitude":"","longitude":"","address":"","booking":"","archive":{"title":"News","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/latest"},"banners":[{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/now-and-then-supplied.jpg","alt":"There's Something for Everyone at Clarence Street's New Basement Cocktail Bar Now and Then"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/now-and-then-supplied-1.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/now-and-then-supplied-2.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/now-and-then-supplied-3.jpg","alt":""}]}
News
Massive New 104-Seat Peruvian Restaurant Callao Has Just Opened Its Doors in Barangaroo

Callao is the stunning new Nikkei diner that's bringing a crudo- and steak-heavy menu to Barangaroo Avenue.

{"id":938684,"type":"food-2","icon":"newspaper-clipping","info":"","name":"Massive New 104-Seat Peruvian Restaurant Callao Has Just Opened Its Doors in Barangaroo","description":"Callao is the stunning new Nikkei diner that's bringing a crudo- and steak-heavy menu to Barangaroo Avenue.","thumbnail":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/callao-credit-dexter-kim-3-488x300.jpg","photo":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/callao-credit-dexter-kim-3.jpg","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/food-drink\/callao-peruvian-japanese-restaurant-barangaroo","latitude":"","longitude":"","address":"","booking":"","archive":{"title":"News","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/latest"},"banners":[{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/callao-credit-dexter-kim-3.jpg","alt":"Massive New 104-Seat Peruvian Restaurant Callao Has Just Opened Its Doors in Barangaroo"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/callao-credit-dexter-kim.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/callao-credit-dexter-kim-4.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/callao-credit-dexter-kim-2.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/barangaroo-credit-dexter-kim.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/callao-credit-dexter-kim-5.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/callao-credit-dexter-kim-1.jpg","alt":""}]}
News
Newtown's Highly Anticipated New Underground Live Music and Cocktail Bar Is Finally Opening in February

The Odd Culture Group is opening Pleasure Club just off King Street — with a 4am license and cocktails from Re's Matt Whiley.

{"id":938625,"type":"food-drink","icon":"newspaper-clipping","info":"","name":"Newtown's Highly Anticipated New Underground Live Music and Cocktail Bar Is Finally Opening in February","description":"The Odd Culture Group is opening Pleasure Club just off King Street \u2014 with a 4am license and cocktails from Re's Matt Whiley.","thumbnail":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/pleasure-club-odd-culture-group-matt-whiley-supplied-1-488x300.jpg","photo":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/pleasure-club-odd-culture-group-matt-whiley-supplied-1.jpg","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/food-drink\/pleasure-club-newtown-live-music-cocktail-bar","latitude":"","longitude":"","address":"","booking":"","archive":{"title":"News","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/latest"},"banners":[{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/pleasure-club-odd-culture-group-matt-whiley-supplied-1.jpg","alt":"Newtown's Highly Anticipated New Underground Live Music and Cocktail Bar Is Finally Opening in February"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/King-Street-Newtown-CP-Sydney-First-Weekend-Out-of-Lockdown-Credit-Cassandra-Hannagan.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2023\/04\/re-sustainable-cocktail-menu-south-eveleigh.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/The-Duke-of-Enmore-Live-music-1-supplied.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/oxford-tavern-mardi-gras-supplied.jpg","alt":""}]}
News
The Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool Is Closing for Maintenance Until 2025 as of This May

One of Sydney's most beloved public pools will be out of action for 16 months.

{"id":938592,"type":"leisure","icon":"newspaper-clipping","info":"","name":"The Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool Is Closing for Maintenance Until 2025 as of This May","description":"One of Sydney's most beloved public pools will be out of action for 16 months.","thumbnail":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/OhBoyCafe_DroneImagery_Sydney_supplied_2023-2-488x300.jpg","photo":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/OhBoyCafe_DroneImagery_Sydney_supplied_2023-2.jpg","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/travel-leisure\/andrew-boy-charlton-pool-closing-until-2025","latitude":"","longitude":"","address":"","booking":"","archive":{"title":"News","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/latest"},"banners":[{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/OhBoyCafe_DroneImagery_Sydney_supplied_2023-2.jpg","alt":"The Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool Is Closing for Maintenance Until 2025 as of This May"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/OhBoyCafe_venue_Syd_2023_supplied.jpg","alt":"Aerial view of Oh Boy Caf\u00e9 and the Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool."},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/Andrew-Boy-Charlton-Pool-DNSW.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/OhBoyCafe_venue_Syd_2023_supplied-4.jpg","alt":"Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool and Oh Boy Caf\u00e9."}]}
News
Bartiga Is Double Bay's Sunny New Southeast Asian Restaurant and Neighbourhood Bar

A former Tetsuya's chef leads the way at this sunny corner spot offering XO pipi linguine, red curry bug rolls and beef rendang sausage rolls.

{"id":938236,"type":"food-2","icon":"newspaper-clipping","info":"","name":"Bartiga Is Double Bay's Sunny New Southeast Asian Restaurant and Neighbourhood Bar","description":"A former Tetsuya's chef leads the way at this sunny corner spot offering XO pipi linguine, red curry bug rolls and beef rendang sausage rolls.","thumbnail":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/bartiga-credit-James-Pellegrino-488x300.jpg","photo":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/bartiga-credit-James-Pellegrino.jpg","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/food-drink\/bartiga-double-bay-restaurant-and-bar-open","latitude":"","longitude":"","address":"","booking":"","archive":{"title":"News","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/latest"},"banners":[{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/bartiga-credit-James-Pellegrino.jpg","alt":"Bartiga Is Double Bay's Sunny New Southeast Asian Restaurant and Neighbourhood Bar"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/bartiga-credit-Jude-Cohen-1.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/bartiga-credit-James-Pellegrino-2.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/bartiga-credit-James-Pellegrino-1.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/bartiga-credit-Jude-Cohen.jpg","alt":""}]}
Bar
The Waratah

308-310 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst

A welcoming ground-floor pub and a romantic diner with a love of native ingredients come together at this impressive Darlinghurst venue.

Book a Table

{"id":937666,"type":"bar","icon":"martini","info":"\u003Cp class=\"address\"\u003E308-310 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst\u003C\/p\u003E","name":"The Waratah","description":"A welcoming ground-floor pub and a romantic diner with a love of native ingredients come together at this impressive Darlinghurst venue.","thumbnail":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/the-waratah-darlinghurst-credit-Jason-Loucas-488x300.jpg","photo":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/the-waratah-darlinghurst-credit-Jason-Loucas.jpg","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/bars\/the-waratah","latitude":"-33.8781651","longitude":"151.2213095","address":"308-310 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst","booking":" \u003Csection class=\"book black ga-send\" data-current-type=\"places\" \u003E\n \u003Ca class=\"book_online_anchor\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"http:\/\/www.opentable.com.au\/restaurant\/profile\/170864?ref=11160\"\u003E\n \u003Ci class='ph ph-calendar-plus'\u003E\u003C\/i\u003EBook a Table\n \u003C\/a\u003E\n \u003C\/section\u003E","archive":{"title":"Bar","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/bars"},"banners":[{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/the-waratah-darlinghurst-credit-Jason-Loucas.jpg","alt":"The Waratah"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/the-waratah-darlinghurst-credit-Jason-Loucas-5.jpg","alt":"The Waratah"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/the-waratah-darlinghurst-credit-Jason-Loucas-6.jpg","alt":"The Waratah"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/the-waratah-darlinghurst-credit-Jason-Loucas-4.jpg","alt":"The Waratah"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/the-waratah-darlinghurst-credit-Jason-Loucas-1.jpg","alt":"The Waratah"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/the-waratah-darlinghurst-credit-Jason-Loucas-2.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/the-waratah-darlinghurst-credit-Jason-Loucas-3.jpg","alt":""}]}
Bar
Snack Kitchen

95 Macleay Street, Elizabeth Bay

Maurice Terzini teams up with his son Sylvester for a crowd-pleasing wine, aperitif and snack bar in Potts Point.

{"id":937669,"type":"bar","icon":"martini","info":"\u003Cp class=\"address\"\u003E95 Macleay Street, Elizabeth Bay\u003C\/p\u003E","name":"Snack Kitchen","description":"Maurice Terzini teams up with his son Sylvester for a crowd-pleasing wine, aperitif and snack bar in Potts Point.","thumbnail":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/snack-kitchen-credit-ben-hansen-488x300.jpg","photo":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/snack-kitchen-credit-ben-hansen.jpg","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/bars\/snack-kitchen","latitude":"-33.8713531","longitude":"151.2249063","address":"95 Macleay Street, Elizabeth Bay","booking":"","archive":{"title":"Bar","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/bars"},"banners":[{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/snack-kitchen-credit-ben-hansen.jpg","alt":"Snack Kitchen"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/snack-kitchen-supplied.jpg","alt":"Snack Kitchen"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/snack-kitchen-supplied-1.jpg","alt":"Snack Kitchen"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/snack-kitchen-supplied-3.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/snack-kitchen-supplied-2.jpg","alt":""}]}
Event
Taylors Garden of Chill

Fri, 9 Feb - Sun, 11 Feb 2024
Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, Sydney

A pop-up wine bar dedicated to chilled reds is coming to the Royal Botanic Gardens for three days in February.

{"id":937701,"type":"event","icon":"calendar","info":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp class=\"dates\"\u003EFri, 9 Feb - Sun, 11 Feb 2024\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp class=\"nearestPlace\"\u003ERoyal Botanic Garden Sydney, Sydney\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","name":"Taylors Garden of Chill","description":"A pop-up wine bar dedicated to chilled reds is coming to the Royal Botanic Gardens for three days in February.","thumbnail":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Taylors-Garden-of-Chill-at-Sydney-Botanic-Gardens-2-488x300.jpg","photo":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Taylors-Garden-of-Chill-at-Sydney-Botanic-Gardens-2.jpg","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/event\/taylors-garden-of-chill","latitude":"-33.8641859","longitude":"151.2165708","address":"Mrs Macquaries Road, Sydney","booking":"","archive":{"title":"Event","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/events"},"banners":[{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Taylors-Garden-of-Chill-at-Sydney-Botanic-Gardens-2.jpg","alt":"Taylors Garden of Chill"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Taylors-Garden-of-Chill-at-Sydney-Botanic-Gardens.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Taylors-Garden-of-Chill-at-Sydney-Botanic-Gardens-1.jpg","alt":""}]}
Event
Rooftop Hottest 100 Party

Sat, 27 Jan, 2024
The Taphouse, Darlinghurst

Pair the hits of 2023 with prawn wontons, long necks of Tsingtao and glasses of frosé at The Taphouse's rooftop Hottest 100 party.

Buy Tickets

{"id":937280,"type":"event","icon":"calendar","info":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp class=\"dates\"\u003ESat, 27 Jan, 2024\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp class=\"nearestPlace\"\u003EThe Taphouse, Darlinghurst\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","name":"Rooftop Hottest 100 Party","description":"Pair the hits of 2023 with prawn wontons, long necks of Tsingtao and glasses of fros\u00e9 at The Taphouse's rooftop Hottest 100 party.","thumbnail":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/the-taphouse-rooftop-supplied-488x300.jpg","photo":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/the-taphouse-rooftop-supplied.jpg","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/event\/rooftop-hottest-100-party","latitude":"-33.8846169","longitude":"151.21814089999998","address":"122 Flinders Street, Darlinghurst","booking":" \u003Csection class=\"book black ga-send\" data-current-type=\"tribe_events\" \u003E\n \u003Ca class=\"book_online_anchor\" href=\"https:\/\/taphousesydney.com.au\/hottest-100-party\/\" target=\"_blank\"\u003E\n \u003Ci class='ph ph-ticket'\u003E\u003C\/i\u003EBuy Tickets\n \u003C\/a\u003E\n \u003C\/section\u003E","archive":{"title":"Event","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/events"},"banners":[{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/the-taphouse-rooftop-supplied-1.jpg","alt":"Rooftop Hottest 100 Party"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/the-taphouse-rooftop-supplied.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/the-taphouse-food-supplied.jpg","alt":""}]}
Event
A Streetparty Named Fitz

Sun, 11 Feb, 2024
Old Fitzroy Hotel, Woolloomooloo

This free summer street party is raising money for The Old Fitz Theatre — featuring theatre, music, a New Orleans barbecue and cocktails from Re's Matt Whiley.

{"id":937383,"type":"event","icon":"calendar","info":"\u003Cdiv\u003E\u003Cp class=\"dates\"\u003ESun, 11 Feb, 2024\u003C\/p\u003E\u003Cp class=\"nearestPlace\"\u003EOld Fitzroy Hotel, Woolloomooloo\u003C\/p\u003E\u003C\/div\u003E","name":"A Streetparty Named Fitz","description":"This free summer street party is raising money for The Old Fitz Theatre \u2014 featuring theatre, music, a New Orleans barbecue and cocktails from Re's Matt Whiley.","thumbnail":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/the-old-fitz-supplied-1-488x300.jpg","photo":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/the-old-fitz-supplied-1.jpg","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/event\/a-streetparty-named-fitz","latitude":"-33.8731361","longitude":"151.2207361","address":"129 Dowling Street, Woolloomooloo","booking":"","archive":{"title":"Event","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/events"},"banners":[{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/old-fitz-al-fresco-dining-credit-city-of-sydney.jpg","alt":"A Streetparty Named Fitz"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/the-old-fitz-theatre-credit-Sydney-Fringe-Festival.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/old-fitz-odd-culture-supplied.jpg","alt":"The exterior of The Old Fitz - one of the best pubs in Sydney."}]}
News
Odd Culture Group Is Throwing a Free Summer Street Party to Raise Cash for The Old Fitz Theatre

A Streetparty Named Fitz will bring theatre, music, a next-level barbecue, cocktails and gelato to Woolloomooloo in February.

{"id":937178,"type":"food-drink","icon":"newspaper-clipping","info":"","name":"Odd Culture Group Is Throwing a Free Summer Street Party to Raise Cash for The Old Fitz Theatre","description":"A Streetparty Named Fitz will bring theatre, music, a next-level barbecue, cocktails and gelato to Woolloomooloo in February.","thumbnail":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/old-fitz-odd-culture-supplied-488x300.jpg","photo":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/old-fitz-odd-culture-supplied.jpg","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/food-drink\/old-fitz-street-party-odd-culture","latitude":"","longitude":"","address":"","booking":"","archive":{"title":"News","url":"https:\/\/concreteplayground.com\/australia\/latest"},"banners":[{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2019\/07\/old-fitz-odd-culture-supplied.jpg","alt":"The exterior of The Old Fitz - one of the best pubs in Sydney."},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/the-old-fitz-supplied-1.jpg","alt":"Odd Culture Group Is Throwing a Free Summer Street Party to Raise Cash for The Old Fitz Theatre"},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/the-old-fitz-theatre-supplied.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/2019-04-09-Concrete-Playground-Mapo-Kitti-Gould-10.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/the-old-fitz-theatre-credit-Sydney-Fringe-Festival.jpg","alt":""},{"src":"https:\/\/cdn.concreteplayground.com\/content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/old-fitz-al-fresco-dining-credit-city-of-sydney.jpg","alt":""}]}