Good Food Month isn't just about sit-down meals and special events — it's also about jumping between happening joints and grabbing a few drinks. Enter Bar Hop. Yes, the name says just about everything. Every evening in July, you can stop by Bucci Restaurant, Kerbside, Public Bar and Restaurant and Canvas for a $20 cocktail and a perfectly matched bar snack — or, as the title suggests, hop between all four. And if you're wondering what's on offer, that'd be Tanqueray gin concoctions, the perfect, light libation for a multi-venue escapade.
Since the release of their dazzling 2011 album Civilian, Baltimore-based duo Jenn Wasner and Andy Stack aka Wye Oak have become one of the most loved modern folk artists of recent times. From their distorted, guitar-heavy brand of melancholic pop to their recent dabblings in synth-drenched, intricate melody stylings, this duo show off as much emotion as skill in their soaring tunes. Now, off the back of their 2014 album Shriek, and two years of nonstop touring, they're arriving in Australia for a handful of shows — primarily stemming from their appearance at Sydney Festival. Widely known and esteemed for their exuberant and thunderous live shows, Wye Oak take that extra mile on stage to let the infiniteness of their melodies and rhythmic innovations flourish. Shriek saw Wasner swap out her domineering guitar for galloping, layered synths, bringing the band to a sound that transcends disorientation and loss to a hopeful, trance-heavy, rhythmic sense of renewal and empowerment. Supported by Major Leagues.
Last year, everyone’s favourite musicians turned bar proprietors looked back to 2003 for their end of year celebration. Never doing the same thing twice, this year they’re advancing onwards and then some. For New Year’s Eve, the Southside Tea Room is going forward – not back – to the future. Great Scott! That should be Nu Year’s Eve, actually, befitting the ultramodern theme. No one knows what the year 3015 holds, but the Morningside establishment is going to give it their best guess. Everyone’s favourite sci-fi pop culture obsessions will be a major influence, and one thing is certain: Beyoncé, a future Master of the Universe, will feature on the playlist. Think alien babes, space cuties and more — possibly including foil, that shiny staple of all things forward-looking. It wouldn’t be a Southside party without prizes for the best costumes, delicious snacks, cheap drinks, themed cocktails, giveaways, and bodacious party tunes for this most excellent adventure. There’s also a pre-paid $70 food and drink package for those thinking about the not-too-distant future of their bank account.
You've obsessed over the series, watched the movie that followed, thought about buying Laura Palmer's house and even read The Secret Diary of Laura Palmer (yes, it really exists). You know that the pattern on the floor inside the Black Lodge also pops up in David Lynch's Eraserhead, and that the actress who played Double R Diner owner Norma, Peggy Lipton, is the real-life mother of Parks and Recreation's Rashida Jones. If you know all this, you're ready for the Twin Peaks Trivia Night — and even if you don't, you should still try your luck. Celebrating the 25th anniversary of the TV series like no other, the folks at Man vs Bear have compiled a very special challenge, covering everything from cherry pie to the Log Lady. Think clues, coffee and a damn fine night of fun, in the latest event to accompany the Gallery of Modern Art's David Lynch: Between Two Worlds exhibition. Teams of two to eight people can enter, and bookings are essential. Note: you can dress up as Agent Dale Cooper if you like, but you can't ask your friend Diane for help with the answers.
What’s your favourite thing about Twin Peaks? Other than the fact that it's coming back in 2016, of course. We know, we know, there’s just too many to choose from. Any list would have to include Kyle MacLachlan as Agent Dale Cooper, cherry pie and damn fine coffee, and David Lynch’s zaniness on screen and off — as well as the haunting music. From those first distinctive notes of composer Angelo Badalamenti’s theme tune, to the ethereal sounds of Julee Cruise’s Falling — a number one hit in Australia at the time — it is the show’s soundtrack that still echoes through our minds. Courtesy of GOMA’s David Lynch: Between Two Worlds exhibition, that isn’t going to change any time soon. In fact, Xiu Xiu will ensure the series’ score gets permanently lodged in your brain. For two nights only, the American experimental group will appear live to interpret the iconic music through their mix of post punk and synth pop. Prepare to amazed, delighted and perhaps even disturbed by this new take on Twin Peaks’ chaos, drama, fear, noise and sidelong leering glances. The performance also comes with a serious warning: BOB will be conducting.
Get the bacon and whisky ready, and prepare your ears for some high-pitched laughter. They're the only things you can do — other than start making your own canoe, and generally squealing with glee — upon hearing the news that Nick Offerman is coming to Australia this week. Although initially slated to appear with partner in crime Megan Mullally to perform their Summer of 69: No Apostrophe, an unforeseen scheduling conflict has seen the show replaced with Offerman's solo show Full Bush. Mullally is no longer able to tour early next year as she starts a major film production overlapping directly with her Australian dates — but, luckily, Offerman is still able to make it. Just take a moment to let that sink in. Ron effing Swanson will be in the country. Described as a veritable smorgasbord of cautionary tales, tunes, and tips for prosperity, Full Bush looks set to make all your dreams come true: you'll get to sing a tune with Offerman while taking in his natural beefy musk. He'll be up on stage at QPAC on Friday, February 5, and for two shows the following night on Saturday, February 6 (at 8pm and 10.30pm). NICK OFFERMAN: FULL BUSH DATES January 28-29 — State Theatre, Sydney January 30 — Theatre Royal, Hobart January 31 & February 9 — Hamer Hall, Melbourne February 2-3 — Astor Theatre, Perth February 4 — Festival Theatre, Adelaide February 5-6 — QPAC Concert Hall, Brisbane
Despite Brisbane being one of Australia's most vibrant art and culture hubs, world music isn't the first thing people seek out on a Friday evening. That's a little shocking, so the Triffid is about to change the situation. A Night of World Music features three of Australia's most exciting, up-and-coming bands who all fall under that super-broad genre of world music, i.e. music produced in developing countries, with occasional western influence. If 'Graceland' just popped into your head, then you're kind of on the right track. The night will be headlined by MZAZA, one of Australia's most individual bands, as lead by acclaimed French-Sephardic vocalist Pauline Maudy and made up of cultural refugees from Bosnia, Latvia, Greece, Turkey, France, Sephardic Spain and Australia. They'll be joined 25-piece street band Unusual Suspects as well as Brazilian bossa nova act Coisa Linda. Get into the spirit of world music and head along to this unique and diverse night at The Triffid. Tickets cost $18.70 and the evening kicks off at 7.30pm.
Settling in for The Martian, you could be forgiven for feeling a little deja vu. Interstellar might be flooding your memory, given that Jessica Chastain and Matt Damon grapple with space again. Alien and Prometheus could also pop into your head, seeing that director Ridley Scott seemingly heads into familiar territory too. Thankfully, their resumes aside, the rehash largely stops there. That’s not to say that The Martian doesn’t recall many other intergalactic efforts such as Gravity, Moon, Sunshine, Contact and Apollo 13, nor that it doesn’t work with themes and narrative components recognisable to anyone who has seen a survivalist film like Castaway or All Is Lost. What this adaptation of Andy Weir's 2011 novel of the same name does do, though, is soar forward with two things in mind: optimism and practicality. Botanist Mark Watney (Damon) is the key. He's residing among a group of astronauts manning the latest mission on Mars — until a storm strikes, he gets knocked out and blown away from his colleagues, and they head back home. When he wakes up to discover he's now the only human left on the planet, he focuses on attempting to remedy his predicament. Finding a way to grow food in the inhospitable environment is his first priority, followed by trying to communicate to NASA that he's alive and ready to return to Earth. Solving problems rather than wallowing in sentiment is the approach Watney takes, as does Scott and screenwriter Drew Goddard (The Cabin in the Woods). As the repercussions of the Watney's situation ripple through those trying to rescue him — be they space agency head (Jeff Daniels), other members of the ground-based team (including Kristen Wiig, Sean Bean, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Benedict Wong and Donald Glover), or Watney's departed crewmates (Chastain, Michael Peña, Kate Mara, Sebastian Stan and Aksel Hennie) — action rather than emotion sits at the film's fore. Accordingly, The Martian favours procedure and process over psychology. It traces the steps needed to bring the stranded man home. It springs from a position of simply believing that resolution is possible. It presents characters using science (or sciencing the shit out of things, as the MacGyver-like Watney puts it in the video logs that comprise much of the storytelling) to make things happen. People, teamwork and ingenuity reign supreme, even over the capably rendered 3D spectacle. Anyone fearing a lack of wonder or feeling in the film can rest assured; they are there, and they spring from the way the cast subtly handle their roles (particularly an empathetic Damon) rather than the script hitting audiences over the head with horror or sappiness. A keen sense of humour is also evident in perhaps the most upbeat survivalist offering for some time, with Lord of the Rings fans likely to have the biggest laugh. There's also the endearing soundtrack, which includes moments of dancing along to disco hits or letting a classic, perfectly chosen David Bowie track (though not the one you think) play out in full. That it all adds up to one of the most enjoyably pragmatic sci-fi stints seen in the cinema is refreshing and perhaps surprising, even given its pedigree. In fact, The Martian doesn't just solidly engage from start to finish — it entertainingly and convincingly colonises its own patch of space movie territory.
Returning to the Tyagarah Tea Farm over the Easter long weekend, Bluesfest is set to gumboot-stomp its well-worn spot in the Australian festival game as one of the tightest productions on the calendar. This year's lineup has generated more buzz than usual, landing one of the most awaited Australian returns of the last year — Kendrick Lamar. Alongside the multi-Grammy-winning artist and The Blacker the Berry maestro comes Bluesfest's usual, eclectic, heavily star-studded lineup. 'The Voice' is coming. Not the Delta kind, the only kind. Living legend and eternal 'Sexbomb' Tom Jones sits at the top of the bill, alongside The National, D'Angelo, Modest Mouse, City and Colour, Eagles Of Death Metal, UB40, Haitus Kaiyote, Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds and more. Things are going to get real Byron when The Wailers perform all four of Bob Marley's albums Exodus, Survival, Uprising and Legend in their entirety. Memories will be flooding (along with Bluesfest, if it rains again) with the appearance of Jackson Browne, alongside the The Decemberists. Returning Bluesfester Steve Earle is back with The Dukes, and we'll be front and centre for The 'Original' Blues Brothers Band. Add to this some of the best festival food in the game? You've got yourself a humdinger of a muddy, muddy weekend. BLUESFEST 2016 LINEUP: In alphabetical order... Allen Stone Archie Roach Ash Grunwald Backsliders Blackberry Smoke Blind Boy Paxton Chain City And Colour Cold War Kids Con Brio Digging Roots Dustin Thomas D'Angelo And The Vanguard Eagles Of Death Metal East Journey Elle King Emdee Emma Donovan & The Putbacks Eugene Hideaway Bridges Fantastic Negrito Frazey Ford Grace Potter Graham Nash Harts Hiatus Kaiyote Houndmouth Hussy Hicks Irish Mythen Janiva Magness Jason Isbell Jeff Martin (The Tea Party) Joe Bonamassa – Bluesfest exclusive Kaleo Kamasi Washington Kendrick Lamar Kim Churchill Lord Huron Lucky Peterson Lukas Nelson & The Promise Of The Real Marshall Okell Melissa Etheridge Mike Love Modest Mouse Mojo Juju Nahko and Medicine For The People Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds Pierce Brothers Playing For Change Band Raw Earth. Rhiannon Giddens Richard Clapton Russell Morris Sahara Beck Shakey Graves Songhoy Blues St. Paul & The Broken Bones Steve Earle and The Dukes Steve Smyth Sturgill Simpson Tedeschi Trucks Band Tex Perkins & The Ape The Blind Boys Of Alabama The Bros. Landreth The Cat Empire The Decemberists The Mastersons The Mick Fleetwood Band The National – Bluesfest exclusive The Selecter The Wailers The Word The "Original" Blues Brothers Band Tom Jones Tweedy UB40 Featuring Ali Campbell, Astro & Mickey Virtue – Bluesfest exclusive Vintage Trouble Wards Xpress + more Bluesfest runs Thursday, March 24 – Monday, March 28 at Tyagarah Tea Tree Farm, Byron Bay. Tickets from Byron Bay Bluesfest. Image: Andy Fraser.
It happens at every live gig: the band stop singing, but the crowd keep belting out their favourite tune. You've been in the audience. You've wanted to continue screaming your lungs out. In fact, you've wished you could even jump on stage to do so. Well, now you can at The Foundry Karaoke Extravanza. It's the kind of evening of music-focused fun that can only happen when a couple of local artists and a karaoke machine combine. The Good Sports, Max Chillen and the Kerbside Collective, Emerson Snowe and Simi Lacroix will all be showing off their best cover versions from the stacked list of hits, and you can join them. Just check out the event Facebook page, pick your song and email The Foundry in advance to reserve your place — and you'll be showing off your finest rendition of Daryl Braithwaite's 'The Horses' in no time. Image: The Foundry.
You can't help but conjure up images of the romanticised '60s Woodstock era while listening to Richard In Your Mind. Putting forward a Beatles-ish pop sound swathed with psychedelic and krautrock rythyms, the Sydney five-piece released their fourth album, Ponderosa in August last year via Rice Is Nice, the local record label boasting a host of Sydney talent such as Donny Benet and SPOD. Now they're celebrating the release of the album on vinyl, with the 'Give Me a High Five' east coast tour. RIYM's tunes are a fun and light-hearted affair, exploring overarching themes of things like nature, exploration and escapism — no doubt influenced by the band's hours spent in the Blue Mountains, where they recorded the tracks. It might not be the 1960s anymore, but these guys are definitely making sure the crazy psychedelia still lives on. Supported by Baskervillain + Shady Bliss. And if you haven't seen the video for latest single 'Hammered in the Daytime', do yourself a favour and click the tab above. It's the family TV show we truly wish existed. https://youtube.com/watch?v=kMyxjFAyLMU
If you care about what you wear, you probably don't just care about how you look. Interested in the future of fashion? Eager to think locally and sustainably about the industry? Keen to pick up a few new textile tricks, meet makers putting the environment and ethical production first, and shop for new and vintage threads? Then you'll care about heading to Fashion Revolution. Held across the three days, this new event brings together a heap of fashion-minded folks for talks, workshops and markets, diving into the sartorial folds in many ways. It all kicks off between 5–9pm on Friday, April 26 with homegrown wares (and drinks and nibbles), then offers the same plus classes and discussions between 9am–4pm on Saturday, April 27, before getting into the pre-loved game between 9am–3pm on Sunday, April 28. Artists Alike in Albion is the place to head, and the list of topics is as hefty. Explore the other side of fast fashion, hear all about the sewing renaissance, get stylist tips, learn how to be sustainable with your outfits and up your mending skills. You can also chat with 12 local creatives, and tuck into Holistic Wholefoods' vegan and gluten-free dishes. Entry is via gold coin donation.
Australia's boutique camping festival descends on the small NSW town of Berry each December, taking over the local showgrounds with two days of stellar global and local musicians. The annual music, food and art festival somehow feels like a country weekend fete, but it's also where you'll catch a surprising number of big-name acts. This year one of Brit Pop's leading troublemakers, Liam Gallagher, sits at the top of the bill, followed by Triple J faves DMA's, Meg Mac, Hatchie, Dope Lemon and Julia Jacklin. But Fairgrounds isn't just about the tunes. Sydney-based vintage market host Dear Pluto has brought together over 20 different stalls of makers and collectors on the Saturday (11am–10.30pm), there's a vinyl record fair (also on Saturday) and Games on the Green with tug-of-war and egg-and-spoon races. Plus, the festival arranges for free use of the local swimming pool every evening until 7pm. And Jervis Bay's award-winning Paperbark restaurant is back with its popular pop-up — expect housemade ice creams, locally sourced seafood, flatbreads and dips, as well as spiced berries. See the full music lineup below. FAIRGROUNDS 2019 LINEUP Liam Gallagher Dope Lemon Meg Mac DMA's Julia Jacklin Kasey Chambers Hatchie The Babe Rainbow Fritz The Lazy Eyes The Buoys Nilüfer Yanya 100 Clews The Lemonheads Stevan Images: Ian Laidlaw and Gabriel Vallido.
Sun, surf and sand aren't the only things the beach has to offer. If you're Courtney Norris, founder of new Newstead co-working hub The Cove, it might also inspire a new business idea. Running past the Sunshine Coast's Little Cove while training for a half-marathon, the word and its meaning stuck in her head. As did the drive to create a hub for Brisbane entrepreneurs and small businesses. The Cove's seaside inspiration doesn't mean working in beach-like surroundings (sorry), but members will find a relaxed space designed to foster collaboration and creativity. And while that might all sound like a standard co-work space spiel — it comes with the usual inclusions like collective and dedicated desks, offices, break-out areas and a communal kitchen — it also has a few ace additions sparked by Norris's time touring similar sites in Europe and Asia. As well as an event space hosting cocktail functions and masterclasses, The Cove boasts its own curated mentoring program, holds wellness sessions, offers a business concierge and provides access to an electric BMW i3 vehicle. Since opening its doors in September, it has formed partnerships with Institute of Modern Art and The Design Conference, held rooftop public exercise classes at Eleven Rooftop Bar and started planning an entrepreneurship retreat for this coming September/October. Norris says the aim is "to create a work environment that is welcoming, warm and modern — taking inspiration from a well-executed boutique hotel or private members club, where every detail has been thought through from the best in high-end finishes, custom-designed furniture, high speed wifi throughout, custom lighting and excellent customer service." The Cove also features a coastal-inspired aesthetic, created by Norris and Brisbane's Collectivus interior team with assistance from local and national designers. Membership options include premium office suites, collaborative desks for teams and dedicated desks in an open-plan environment. Find The Cove at 59 Doggett Street, Newstead. For further details, head to covecowork.com.au/cove.
Need an excuse to attend Cloudland's latest themed shindig? We have one for you — because you can can can. With the Fortitude Valley venue paying tribute to all things Moulin Rouge over one decadent night, the end result promises to be spectacular spectacular. From 8pm on Friday, September 28, the Ann Street spot will turn its already decadent digs into the closest approximation of a Parisian music hall that it can manage — complete with live entertainment, burlesque dancers and roaming performers. And, the Moulin Rouge party will span across two levels, taking over both Madame Hedges and the Crystal Palais. No word yet if someone will be swinging from the ceiling and singing 'Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend' like Nicole Kidman's Satine. With two levels comes two types of ticket. The good news is that general admission is free and gets you into the ground floor glitz, although tickets are still required. Or go all out for $75, and you'll get access to the upper reaches plus a three-hour drinks package. Come what may, indeed.
Next time you head to Blackbird Bar and Grill, you'd best prepare for the Eagle Street Pier eatery to look a little different. You can breathe a sigh of relief, because their current drinks and steaks offerings aren't changing. Instead, they're taking a great place and making it even bigger and better. Say hello to Blackbird Private Dining and Events, aka the restaurant's expanded setup on the floor below their current digs. Come April 27, their new operations will be in full swing, complete with a dedicated second kitchen run by Lyndon Tyres, the former head chef at Melbourne's Circa, The Prince. Basically, if you're looking for a party, reception or meeting space that can cater for up to 400 people, and boasts riverside views spanning from the Story Bridge to the Kangaroo Point cliffs, then you're in luck. Blackbird 2.0 is now a one-stop shop for all your fine dining needs, whether having a quiet dinner and a few beverages in the main area takes your fancy, or celebrating something special with everyone that you know is in order. Just don't expect to always eat upstairs and hold your functions downstairs, because with more room comes more options. Reversing the spaces for the right event isn't out of the question. Yep, we know where we want to hold our next fancy occasion. Find Blackbird Bar & Grill at 123 Eagle Street, Brisbane, or check out the Blackbird Private Dining & Events website for more information.
Ever had a hankering for a burger, but couldn't decide which joint to visit? Thanks to Brisbane's hefty array of burg-slinging places, we've been there, and often. Trust The Triffid to come up with a solution, courtesy of a day-long dedicated celebration. On October 21, the Newstead music venue is joining forces with Stone & Wood, shutting down Stratton Street and serving up Brisbane's most delayed trend festival: the Brisbane Burger Fest. That's a big call in a year that has seen ice cream, mussels, Japanese culture, espresso martinis and specialty coffee all get their own shindigs. For those wondering about the festival's burger credentials, Ze Pickle, Miss Kay's, Ben's Burgers, Mr Burger, 5 Boroughs, Red Hook, Lucky Egg and The Triffid's own burgers will all be on offer, with each eatery whipping up their usual favourites and coming up with a special Burger Fest creation as well. There'll also be an official burger-eating competition as part of the festivities (of course there will be). If you don't think you can handle taking part, that's okay — everyone at Burger Fest will be seeing how many burgs they can eat in their own way, after all. Making a free burger street party even better, The Triffid's beer garden will be showcasing live music all day, and Stone & Wood will be taking care of the brews. Brisbane Burger Fest takes place from 11am on October 21 at The Triffid, 7-9 Stratton Street, Newstead. For more information, visit the event Facebook page. Image: Lucky Egg.
Things are looking up in the middle of the Brisbane CBD, particularly if you like drinking at a sky-high bar underneath a Queensland sky. Add Sixteen Antlers to the city's list of rooftop hotspots — and add peering out over King George Square and the City Hall clock tower, sipping craft beer and cocktails, and snacking on small plates to your spring and summer must-do list. Quietly welcoming patrons from September 29 before officially launching in mid-October, the new hangout is perched 16 stories above the ground, in case you hadn't already guessed from the name. Taking over the top level at Pullman and Mercure Brisbane on the corner of Ann and Roma streets, it might just boast one of the best inner city views in Brissie. As for the other part of the venue's name, that stems from what they're calling roof 'branches', with the space as leafy in decor as it is lofty in location. While you'll find eye-popping views aplenty, don't go expecting Sixteen Antlers to match its vast vistas with big crowds — instead, it's a relatively intimate 120-person bar. That won't stop it from hosting DJ sets on Friday nights, offering up a hefty drinks list, serving the likes of mini brioche sliders and mozzarella and jalapeno croquettes, or letting patrons dine from the hotel's menu, though. Expect to eat, knock back beverages and enjoy Brisbane from a new perspective after 3pm from Tuesday to Saturday each week. Find Sixteen Antlers at Pullman and Mercure Brisbane on the corner of Ann and Roma streets. For more information, visit their Facebook page.
Charismatic little brother to Gerard's Bistro, Gerard's Bar is no stranger to pairing crisp, tasty brews with seasonal nosh. Hidden behind its sibling in the James Street precinct, Gerard's Bar is home to insanely talented Brisbane chef Ben Williamson, curating quite the culinary experience from the charcuterie cabinet to the magnificent kitchen. Say, how would you like to experience a one-off Gerard's menu, exploring fresh winter produce with some of Australia's favourite craft beers? For an opportunity to experience Williamson's produce first hand, James Squire and Concrete Playground are creating a special Winter Banquet at Gerard's Bistro on Monday, August 8, and we're giving a group of lucky people a seat at the table. You'll sit down to a five-course meal custom-made by Ben, each dish paired with a specific James Squire tipple, and hear from Ben and James Squire brand ambassadors on the night. If you're not already sending this to all your mates to enter, check out the Summer Banquet we held this year in Sydney. We teamed up with chef Richie Dolan from CHISWICK for one heck of a feast in February. To go in the running to win tickets for you and a friend, ENTER HERE. Entries close at midnight Wednesday, July 27.
It's been a big year or so for Delfina's Bistro. First, they set up shop at Emporium, and started serving up hearty meals with a gourmet twist. Then, when their mouthwatering mix of modern Australian and European cuisines proved a hit, they expanded their menu and operating hours, adding weekend brunch to the mix. Onwards and upwards must be the restaurant's motto, because they're not stopping there. In fact, they're not staying at 1000 Ann Street in Fortitude Valley at all. Come the end of July, they're shutting up their existing location, and shifting their entire operations up the road. Well, not just up the road to 959 Ann Street, but to the Alex Perry Hotel and Apartments. And part of the fun of getting into bed with a luxury accommodation provider is that anyone staying on the premises overnight will soon be able to enjoy their delicious dishes in their rooms, on their rooftop bar and in their plush beds as well. Indeed, the new setup will include in-room gourmet hampers of house-made breads, relishes, jams, butters and cheeses, plus the ability to order a barbecue dinner and have a chef cook for them on the rooftop — or arrange for the ingredients to be delivered to you so you can cook it yourself. Drinks-wise, Delfina's will be making the hotel's flavoured sparkling waters, syrups, soft drinks and cocktails, too. And whether you're checking in for a night, or just dropping by for a tasty bite or beverage, you'll also be able to actually sit in the kitchen while you tuck into whatever takes your fancy. Now that really is home-style eating. Find Delfina's Bistro at the Alex Perry Hotel & Apartments, 959 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley, from the end of July. Check out their website and Facebook page for more information.
Been hankering for one of Pizza Emporium's four-cheese slices since their Stafford store closed its doors in May? So have we. Thankfully, those cravings will soon fulfilled, but in a different suburb. Yep, you'd better start heading to West End to get your pizza fix. Opening in the Glass Factory on Vulture Street on September 9, the new Pizza Emporium will feature all the topping combinations regulars know and love, just in a new setting. And if you're not already acquainted with the former northside mainstay, perusing a few items from their West End menu should get your stomach grumbling. A pesto and goat's cheese starter pizza, Aussie concoction with bacon and egg, prosciutto and fig combo (depending on the season) or 'prawn fiesta' offering, anyone? The new eatery will also boast a liquor license, which means pairing your pizza with a cheeky beverage will now be an option — as well as the perfect way to celebrate having a slice in the store's fresh digs. And if you were wondering what had happened to their previously announced Ashgrove shop, which was rumoured to open in June, here's your answer. A new Pizza Emporium is good news, regardless of where it's located. Find Pizza Emporium at The Glass Factory, 1/57 Vulture Street, West End from September 9. For more information, visit their website and Facebook page.
What's better than one Brisbane store dedicated to all the cakes, pastries, pies and other sweet and savoury baked products your stomach can handle? Two, of course. Yes, Jocelyn's Provisions is finally spreading their delicious wares around town and opening up a second shop. The sibling location will be called Albion Provisions — and, as the name suggests, it'll serve up all the handmade goodies Jocelyn's fans know and love in the northside suburb. Come October, Sandgate Road will be abuzz with Turkish delight cheesecakes, triple choc brownies and poached fruit and almond tarts, plus beef and red wine pies and Cornish pasties. The latest news comes hot on the heels of a few recent changes, including Jocelyn's move just up the road from its original Fortitude Valley site, and the introduction of chocolate and chilli mini bars, four new types of savoury tart and two new sausage roll flavours to their menu. We hope you're hungry, because additional dishes are just going to keep on popping up. With another venue will come even more biscuits, chocolates, nougat, panforte and preserves, just to name a few of their delectable offerings. That's quite the way to mark Jocelyn's twentieth birthday, with Albion's purpose-built bakery certain to be pumping out mouth-watering concoctions in no time, and its test kitchen also opening its doors to on-site cooking classes. It's also the best news we've heard since the woman who initially started the whole endeavour opened up a different venture. Let's be honest, you really can't have too many of these tasty treats. Find Albion Provisions at Sandgate Road, Albion from October. Keep an eye on the Jocelyn's Provisions website and Facebook page for further details.
Authentic Nordic cuisine isn't easy to come by in Brisbane; however the city's first Norwegian-inspired eatery wants to put an end to that. In fact, Lokal + Co has the market cornered. No, Ikea's Swedish cafeteria food doesn't count as competition. Of course, a sunny spot in West End probably isn't the kind of location you'd expect to serve up gingerbread waffles with chocolate hazelnut sauce, house-cured gravlax with rye soldiers, or Danish open rye sandwiches with sardines. Closing your eyes, biting into anything on the menu, and pretending you're on the other side of the globe is completely acceptable. So is soaking up the minimalist vibe, which brings a Scandinavian look to an airy split Queenslander. Well, that's what the inside looks like, at least. If you're pulling up a chair outdoors on the deck, expect the next best thing to the traditional Aussie backyard (yep, we're talking about astroturf aplenty). The mix of Norwegian and Australian elements stems from the venue's owners, with Helge Olsen hailing from the former, Corey Thom calling the latter home. The chef duo boast seven years cooking up a storm at Cicada before branching out on their own. And when their liquor license is approved, the cafe intends to extend that blend to their booze lineup too. Nordic beer, anyone? Find Lokal + Co at 6 O'Connell Street, West End. Visit their website and Facebook page for more information.
Ever had a hankering for a burger, but couldn't decide which joint to visit? Thanks to Brisbane's hefty array of burg-slinging places, we've all been there — and often. Thankfully, The Triffid came up with a solution a few years back. That'd be the Brisbane Burger Fest, which is returning again in 2023 to the delight of the entire city's tastebuds. From 11am on Saturday, June 24, the Newstead music venue is once again serving up the River City food event that we had to have. Plenty of culinary festivals have come and gone over the years, but Brisbane Burger Fest was always going to be back for another helping — behaviour that you'll likely copy on the day. [caption id="attachment_627701" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ze Pickle[/caption] Wondering about the festival's burger credentials? Ze Pickle, Fritzenberger, Brooklyn Depot, Hashtag Burgers & Waffles and Remy's will all whip up their usual favourites. Embracing the occasion in the tastiest way possible, they'll be making a few special and exclusive Burger Fest creations as well. There'll also be an official burger-eating competition as part of the festivities (of course there will be), which pits regular burger-lovers up against the pros. If you don't think you can handle taking part in the contest, that's okay — everyone at Burger Fest will be seeing how many burgs they can eat in their own way, after all. And, attendees can look forward to plenty more to keep you entertained beyond eating burgers, including a beer pong tournament. [caption id="attachment_897662" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brooklyn Depot[/caption] Making a burger party even better, the event will be showcasing live music from Melaleuca, Radium Dolls, The Dandys, Lucid Safari, Pipin and Bean Magazine, as well as Echo Wave, Fleur Fatale, Demi Casha and Huxley & Friel. Drinks-wise, Stone & Wood and Heaps Normal will be taking care of the beers — boozy and not-so — and Burger Festival cocktails are also on the menu, including a Bundy dark and stormy. Tickets cost $15 — and if past years are any guide, they're expected to get snapped up quickly. Brisbane Burger Fest 2023 takes place from 11am on Saturday, June 24 at The Triffid, 7-9 Stratton Street, Newstead. For more information and tickets, visit the event's website. Top image: Fritzenberger.
In case you needed more proof that Hollywood is scraping the bottom of the barrel, audiences will soon be getting not one but two Uber-themed comedies. Universal Pictures and 20th Century Fox will be racing to see who can get their flick into theatres first, after both studios unknowingly purchased Uber-centric scripts within 24 hours of each other. Honestly, this is just like Antz and A Bug's Life all over again. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Universal Pictures threw down a seven figure sum on an untitled pitch from Bad Neighbours screenwriter Brendan O'Brien, with Will Ferrell set to produce and star. The script isn't actually finished yet, but sources say it will concern an unfortunate Uber driver (Ferrell) whose fare turns out to be an escaped convict. Fox, meanwhile, purchased Tripper Clancy's completed script Stuber, which in an amusing twist of fate follows an Uber driver whose passenger is a cop, working what THR calls "the most dangerous case of his career." Is it just us, or does it sound like these two films are ripe for an Avengers-style crossover? No word yet on when either film will be released. It does make you wonder whether movies based on apps could be the next big thing, especially with The Angry Birds Movie hitting cinemas in the next few weeks. Surely it's only a matter of time before we get a romantic comedy and/or serial killer film based on Tinder. Via THR.
The World Press Photo Foundation is a global platform connecting professionals and audiences through raw visual journalism and storytelling. The organisation was founded in 1955 when a group of Dutch photographers organised a contest to expose their work to an international audience. Since then the contest has grown into the world's most prestigious photography competition and global travelling exhibition. The 61st edition of the World Press Photo Exhibition will touch down in Brisbane next month and will be on display at the Powerhouse from June 30 until July 22. The winners from this year's contest were chosen by an independent jury that reviewed more than 73,000 photographs by 4548 photographers from 125 countries. The one that took top honours for 2018 is Ronaldo Schemidt's frightening image of José Víctor Salazar Balza who was set alight at a protest in Caracas, Venezuela when the gas tank of a motorbike exploded. This will be on display alongside other finalists, including Adam Ferguson's portrait of a 14-year-old Boko Haram suicide bomber and Patrick Brown's devastating shot of Rohingya refugees after the boat in which they were attempting to flee Myanmar capsized. Further categories on show will include contemporary issues, environment, general news, long-term projects, nature, people, sports and spot news. Image: 'Venezuela Crisis' by Ronaldo Schemidt (cropped).
Gear up for one of the year's most anticipated (and inevitably raved about) national tours. The ever-impressive, ever-epic musical mastermind Ty Segall is currently on Australian shores to kick around on our stages for his biggest headliner tour yet — and set to show Brisbane what San Fran sludge rock is all about. Segall is probably best known for his insane levels of productivity and painstakingly thought-out approach to his garage-rock jams. This year, the 27-year-old Californian released one of the great albums of 2014, glam-rock grail, Manipulator. Over the years, Segall already made significant waves with Sleeper, Twins, Hair, Melted, and Lemons. More EP vending machine than an album-a-year kinda guy, he's already racked up eight albums under his belt, and has a four song EP called Mr Face due out in January. Segall has already hit Melbourne and Meredith Music Festival with full force to rave reviews, selling out his first sideshow and adding another date to keep the people happy. Brisbanites, if you see one show this year, catch this rock savant at The Zoo and thank us later. Supported by The Babe Rainbow and Thigh Master. Image credit: Denee Petracek.
Don't let the sporadic showers fool you — summer is most definitely on it's way. It's time to pull your beachwear out from the depths of your cupboard, dust off your tatty straw hat and prepare for three months of good food, good music and stunning sunshine. We love summer afternoons, and we've partnered with Heineken 3 so you can get the most out of them. We've spoken to a few of our favourite chefs, musicians and artists, to get their insights on creating the perfect balmy afternoon. For this particular adventure, we've teamed up with Brendan Cato of The Farmed Table fame and Matt Branagan and Chester Garcia of Work-Shop to bring you a masterclass on how to bust out a bonza barbecue in just under an hour. Brendan created The Farmed Table, those secret dinners that started off in a tiny café and now pack out warehouses. He's all about fresh, organic, sustainable eating. Matt and Chester founded Work-Shop, a place where you can learn to do absolutely anything. They're a good team. Use these tips and tricks for a speedy but delicious barbecue spread that isn't just the same old steak, snags and salad combo. They'll help you stand proudly as queen or king of the grill this summer. BULK UP YOUR DRY STORE It would be perfectly acceptable to assume that the tricky bits for grilling up a storm are those that require actual cooking, but Brendan assures us that this is not the case. This part is actually extremely easy — just begin with the very best produce that you can get, and stock up your pantry with good quality dry store ingredients. A few herbs, a curry powder, salt, pepper, olive oil and lemon juice are the key to making everything taste on-point, according to our chef for the day. Giving yourself the best base of flavour is key to a delicious barbecue no matter how much time you have. DON'T MUCK AROUND, START WITH HIGH QUALITY FRESH PRODUCE As is part of Brendan's Farmed Table ethos, buying good, fresh, organic produce gives you the perfect building blocks for your summer shindig. There's definitely no shortage of vendors around your house, from market stalls to tiny independent grocers around the corner, so it should be pretty cruisy to track down solid ingredients. We started off with leeks, cauliflower and eggplants all just tossed on the grill and taken off shortly after because, as Brendan tells us, "you don't have to do as much if you start with something good". Rather than mucking about trying to add flavour to a sad carrot, get yourself some good organic veg to begin with. LOW MAINTENANCE MEAT MEANS LESS NEED FOR FANCY MARINADES Rather than some pretty generic cuts of meat you'd normally find at a barbecue (the regular porterhouse steaks and snags, for example), Brendan decided to cook up a huge chunk of flank steak. Seasoned with the staples of salt, pepper and olive oil, that bad boy just went straight on top of the grill. It's less maintenance than paying attention to individual steaks, and more impressive when it's sliced and served. Having a good quality cut means you won't have to muck around with fancy marinades — the flavour will speak for itself. Cooking your meat, according to Brendan, all depends on each individual cut. With cuts like flank, eating it rare isn't going to be as tasty as it is with other cuts because it's naturally more chewy. If you're doing chicken, cook it skin-side down first to render the fat, then let it rest once it's almost cooked through. Get to know your meats, and save yourself some time at the grill (but always let your meat rest — no shortcuts there). FANCY FOOD IS SURPRISINGLY EASY TO PULL OFF Matt tells me that one of the reasons he started Work-Shop was because "people need to get more creative", and the same is definitely true at the barbecue. Just like with the flank steak, try a new cut of meat and pair it with a Heineken 3. Grill your veggies, instead of boiling them. For a sneaky dessert that's not a pavlova, how about halved peaches, grilled, served with amaretti, mint and mascarpone? It's literally a matter of cutting a peach in half, grilling it, and enjoying the resulting deliciousness. Even if you don't have Brendan plating skills, it's hard to go wrong throwing nicely hued things on a plate. Always be unique, guys. Enjoy your summer afternoons with the new low-carb Heineken 3 — we're helping you make the most of them. Images: Michael Wickham.
Calling all architecture fans, folks keen to explore another side of Brisbane and just anyone who likes to peek behind closed doors. Open House Brisbane is back for 2019 and is once again showcasing the city's buildings and structures, letting you peer beyond their facades, and even welcoming you into nooks and crannies that aren't usually open to the public. Celebrating its tenth year in Brisbane, the event will feature 119 buildings across the weekend of October 12–13, which marks its biggest program yet. Get ready to wander through places that you probably walk past every day, spots you've always wondered about and everything in between. They include The Montague pub in West End, the Spring Hill Baths and The Shingle Inn in City Hall, plus the Fort Lytton Military Precinct (and Lytton Quarantine Station), the Old Windmill Tower and the always-popular homes inside Indooroopilly's Walter Taylor Bridge. A selection of architecturally distinctive residential buildings also feature, if you'd like a tour of other people's houses. Many require bookings, so planning ahead is recommended. Other highlights include seemingly every important space along the river at South Bank — Queensland Performing Arts Centre, Queensland Museum, State Library of Queensland, Queensland Art Gallery, Gallery of Modern Art and ABC Brisbane — plus other city-wide favourites such as The Tivoli, Breakfast Creek Hotel, Brisbane Powerhouse, Parliament House, the Treasury Hotel, 4ZZZ's studios and the Queensland Herbarium. Fancy stepping inside the 90-storey Brisbane Skytower in Margaret Street, or the historic Howard Smith Wharves? They're also on the bill. [caption id="attachment_741064" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Queensland Herbarium by Sheena Cheema[/caption] While plenty of this year's locations were on the program in 2018, newcomers include All Hallow's Convent, Brisbane Racing Club, 25 King Street, the William Terrace carpark and one of West End's best-kept secrets: the Ryan Street Library. It's a footpath spot where locals can stop by, borrow a book, exchange their own or donate reading material — and it's inspired, architecturally, by a similar setup in Stockholm. Open House Brisbane isn't just about walking through spaces, whether you mosey at your own leisure or take a guided tour. It also boasts a program of talks and events running from September 26, including a new signature lecture on Singaporean architecture. Last year's special after-dark section also returns, taking place between September 30–October 11 — complete with everything from art exhibitions to laneway tours. Brisbane Open House runs over Saturday, October 12 and Sunday, October 13 at a variety of places around Brisbane. For the full program, head to brisbaneopenhouse.com.au. Top images: Walter Taylor Bridget by Jake Churches, Port of Brisbane by Kim Williams, Government House Fernberg, Spring Hall Baths by Cieran Murphy and Old Windmill Tower by Paul Knie.
Heading to Northshore Hamilton's Eat Street for a food fix has become a weekend staple for many Brisbanites; however, everyone's favourite evening markets have just gotten even better. No, they're not adding even more delicious bites to eat. Yes, they want you to hang around while you're digesting their tasty wares. From November 6, you won't just be hanging around — you'll be jumping in your car, driving down the road, then parking and peering up at a big screen with a riverside, city view. You'll also be taking all the edible morsels you've bought at Eat Street and devouring them while enjoying a movie at their pop-up drive-in. Films will run every Friday and Saturday night, spanning recent releases like Trainwreck and Everest, as well as classic fare. Fast & Furious 7 jumpstarts the program, because there's no better movie to watch while sitting in a vehicle, obviously. Just make sure your engine remains switched off, because no one needs to add to the feature's sound effects. If you're only interested in the movie, not the markets, don't distress — you won't go hungry. An American-style, retro-themed diner will be on site, or you can flag down the drive-in's Segway crew to deliver snacks, ice creams and non-alcoholic drinks to your car window. Yep. Segway delivery. Those with not-so-short memories might recall that the Brisbane International Film Festival did the same thing in the same spot back in 2011 and 2012. The current iteration is a limited time deal, only running until Eat Street moves into the space from its current site. When that happens, outdoor cinema will become a feature of the markets, just sans cars. All tickets must be purchased online and in advance, whether you're going with the romantic option (two people in a car for $32), coasting along on a double date (four people in a car for $44), or bringing every pal you can (seven people in a car for $54). Those without a set of wheels can get comfy in one of 200 moon chairs for a real under-the-stars viewing experience for only $13. For more information about the Eat Street Drive-In, visit their website.
We've all been there: hankering for some street food eats, or keen on doing a spot of market shopping, but not quite sure where to head at any given moment. It's a #firstworldproblem everyone's happy to have. Yep, this is what it means to be spoiled for choice. Enter The Street Food Depot, Brisbane's new market and food truck hub, which tries to help in two ways. Basically, they're a one-stop shop when it comes to culinary-focused community events. If they're not throwing them, they're tracking them. If you've heard of The Food Truck Depot, a series of branded berths and meet-ups around town, then you're on the right track. They're just one part of the nesting doll-type setup that is The Street Food Depot. Basically, alternative, off-the-grid style gatherings that bring local growers, agriculture producers, street food vendors, food trucks, local and regional artisans, wineries, and craft beer brewers — and hungry customers, of course — together are in their wheel house. After a few get-togethers over the last few months, they'll be hosting a semi-regular Brisbane City Street Food Depot in King George Square from July 28, however that's just the beginning. From August, the James Street Community Markets will usher a host of other food options into New Farm every Friday night. Plus, other events street food, community growers and food truck events planned in the future — keep an eye on their online calendar for further details. For more information about the Street Food Depot — and to stay up to date on their upcoming events — check out their website and Facebook page.
Looking for holiday accommodation with a little more oomph? Ever considered staying on a raft? With a sauna? In the town of Joensuu in eastern Finland, a bunch of mates have put their considerable DIY skills to good use. They've built a lake-worthy, multi-level raft with a sauna, named 'Saunalautta'. And next time you're in the mood for a floating holiday, you're welcome to rent it. This vessel is the ultimate year-round destination. Come winter (which, in Finland, means -20 degree temperatures), hang out in the sauna. Up to 15 people can warm up in there at once. Come summer, sprawl out on the upper deck. There's even a few hammocks, so you can get comfy with a book, and a viewing booth, affording 360 degree views. Not interested in lying around? Spend your break perfecting your 2 1/2 front flip from the dedicated, 5.7-metre high diving tower. Wondering how this Huckleberry Finn-esque contraption stays afloat? It's built on top of a series of recycled plastic drums. And what about going somewhere? A small outboard motor gets you moving. Both seasons, there's bunk space for five passengers to stay the night, a barbecue, a hot shower, a refrigerator and a sound system: basically everything you need to turn pirate for life. Hire isn't as expensive as you might think, starting at $410 a day. Head over here for more info, after you check out a few more snappies: Via Inhabitat.
Friday afternoon drinks are a workplace tradition for a reason. We all know the feeling of getting to the end of the week and wanting to crack open an ice-cold beverage to celebrate. And we all know the disappointment of not being able to find anything in the work fridge. That's where Friday Beers comes in, a business based on an idea so simple, we can't believe that no one else has thought of it. Well, they had in the UK, and now some smart-thinking folks have brought the brilliant notion to Brisbane. The subscription service makes it as easy as possible to enjoy an end of week tipple — and to broaden your beer horizons as well. As their name suggests, every Friday they'll ferry six-packs of boutique beverages to your desk. A range of craft breweries are currently on their list, including Angry Man, Stone & Wood, 4 Pines and Vale Ale. For those not so fond of yeasty, hopsy goodness, ciders are available too. At the moment, Friday Beers only services the Brisbane CBD and surrounding suburbs, spanning Newstead to Highgate Hill and East Brisbane to St Lucia, but expect more places to join the fold as the business gets more popular. And the best part? It's free — the delivery, that is. The cost of bringing the beer to your door is included in the price of $28.80 per six-pack. Now that's something to drink to. For more information about Friday Beers, or to order your own regular end-of-week delivery, check out their website. Image: Dollar Photo Club.
There's a big, white container coming to Reddacliff Place. But, like most shipping containers in the city, it's not being used to transport furniture. And the word 'séance' will be written on the side in black. It's kind of ominous. Séance is actually an installation where participants take a seat inside the tiny space, put on a headset and place their hands flat on the table in front of them. The lights go out and the container enters complete darkness. For the next 20 minutes, participants are fed 'suggestible information' through their headsets. You're probably thinking that there's something dark or supernatural about the whole thing — and going by the name, we don't blame you. But the installation's organiser assures us that 'séance' is simply a French word meaning 'session' or 'sitting'. And so Séance is a sensory experience that looks at the psychology of a group sitting together. Despite not being a horror or supernatural-themed piece, it's a scary indicator of how easy it is for confusion, information overload and the people siting right next to us to affect our judgment. Artists David Rosenberg and Glen Neath (who have collaborated in other sensory deprivation projects before) are the creative masterminds behind the project, which has been described as 'disorienting' and 'deeply unsettling'. It's not recommended for the claustrophobic or the easily frightened. The spooky installation first visited Brisbane last year, and now it's back. Head along from Thursday, September 19 to Sunday, October 6, with tickets on sale now.
The sun is shining, the palm trees are gently swaying, and there's a laid-back vibe in the air; you must be in Brisbane. As well as almost able to guarantee holiday-like weather every day of the year, the Queensland capital offers locals and visitors alike the opportunity to enjoy a leisurely yet luxurious weekend. Think taking your pick of gourmet sausages or hash browns for breakfast at a brand new cafe dedicated to both, shopping for vintage threads at the city's only curated boutique market, or eating all the cheese your stomach can handle. Book a room at the Pullman Brisbane and make the hotel's King George Square digs your launching pad. Spend a whirlwind 48 hours eating, drinking, strolling and generally being merry, particularly if you follow our itinerary. [caption id="attachment_587777" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Morning After. Image: @____morningafter via Instagram.[/caption] SATURDAY A Saturday in Brisbane should be spent treating your tastebuds and your eyes to the best the city has to offer. That starts with the most important meal of the day, though don't feel like you need to rush to West End for an early morning bite, because breakfast at Morning After is available all day long. With a name like that, this eatery clearly knows that everyone kicks into gear at their own pace. Have a serving of brekkie carbonara and wander down Vulture and Boundary streets for your next adventure. [caption id="attachment_587791" align="alignnone" width="1280"] GOMA. Image: @qagoma via Instagram.[/caption] To be specific, keep moseying along until you reach the Gallery of Modern Art. For ten years now, the gleaming building on the banks of the river has showered Brisbane with the kind of exhibitions art lovers dream about. There will be something great on regardless of when you're in town (in 2015 and 2016 alone, GOMA has hosted shows focused on photographer Cindy Sherman, filmmaker David Lynch and the best contemporary pieces from the Asia-Pacific, for example). And if you somehow have a few hours to spare, be sure to check out the Australian Cinematheque within the building for a classy afternoon at the movies. [caption id="attachment_587781" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Fromage the Cow. Image: @vintage_lil via Instagram.[/caption] Next, prepare to make friends with Brisbane's water-based transport, the City Cats. Head down the river to Milton, then make a beeline by foot to Fromage the Cow on Park Road. Since this licensed fromagerie opened its doors it has become an indulgent favourite, serving up everything from twice-baked cheese souffle to croque monsieur and cheese toasties. We recommend opting for a flight, which will pair three slices of dairy goodness with three of your chosen type of beverage. [caption id="attachment_587783" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Cobbler. Image: @cobblerwestend via Instagram.[/caption] So, that's the cheese and wine section of day done and dusted. Now, it's on to the whisky and cocktail part of proceedings. You'll find plenty of both at Cobbler back in West End, and yes, you can travel part of the way by City Cat again if you want another chance to soak up the Brisbane river air. Once you arrive on site, even if you generally like your spirits untainted by mixers, we're going to strenuously suggest that you try a cocktail. Why? Well, Cobbler's menus are something special, with both Die Hard and Top Gun-inspired tipples served up in recent times. Working your way through their cocktail list is how you turn a few quiet drinks into an evening to remember. If you're in Brisbane on the right weekend you can stop by Test Kitchen, a fortnightly five-course degustation that takes place at Thomson's Reserve and lets you taste dishes before they go on the menu. [caption id="attachment_587785" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Food trucks at Metre Market. Image: @metremarket via Instagram.[/caption] SUNDAY Start your Sunday with sausages and hash browns. Skip the fast food brekkie though; at Annerley's Snag & Brown in the inner-south, you're going to want to take things slowly. Pick from chorizo, pork chipolatas, chicken, spinach and pine nut, and semi-dried tomato, thyme and polenta bangers, plus classic, sweet potato, and tomato and feta hash browns. There's other food available, but here, it's all there in the name. You'll need all the sustenance you can get for your next stopover: the Metre Market. Every public space around town might turn into a stall-based shopping spot come Sunday morning, but this is the only boutique, clothing-focused venture that's so selective about the vintage wares on display, you'll instantly walk out with a new wardrobe. Alas, Metre Market is an every now and then kind of deal, so we also have a list of alternatives. Secondhand fiends should head to Suitcase Rummage's regular pop-up events at Brisbane Square and Brisbane Powerhouse, while those with designer tastes can give their wallet a workout at South Bank's monthly Young Designer's Market. After a busy morning browsing, buying and wondering what you can realistically fit in your suitcase, there's only one thing to do. Treat yourself to some swoon-worthy sweet stuff (and no, we're not talking about Doughnut Time, though eating one of their epic pastries is something every visitor to Brisbane should do too). Instead, head to New Farm Confectionery for some salted caramel lollipops, chocolate raspberry bark, passionfruit sherbet and more. [caption id="attachment_587796" align="alignnone" width="1280"] New Farm Confectionary. Image: @nfconfectionary via Instagram.[/caption] So, you've feasted, shopped and had something sugary; now it's time for dinner in a heritage-listed building that once housed a medicine dispensary. Yes, really. The food menu at The Apo is a rotating affair, but we're sure one of the seasonal dishes on offer (such as Lebanese tacos with spiced goat and frozen Arabic coffee dessert martinis at the time of writing) will take your fancy. You'll want to grab an Apo Old Fashioned while you're eating, but save some room for a nightcap at Barbara around the corner. They're known for their cocktails and for being a classy late-night hangout everyday of the week – that's how you should bring an ace two days in Brisbane to a perfect end. [caption id="attachment_588386" align="alignnone" width="1280"] The Apo. Image: @theapo_ via Instagram.[/caption] Pullman Hotels make a great base to explore Brisbane for a weekend.
When the ancient Greeks dreamt up democracy many moons ago, they surely knew their labour of political love would reap plentiful rewards for humanity — barbecuable rewards. Voting and sausage sizzles go together like Q&A and provocative tweets. And in 2016, you don't even have keep your fingers crossed for a damn sizzle at your voting booth — there's an actual Australian election sausage sizzle tracker website to help you, aptly named Snagvotes. No longer will you needlessly wheel around town, crazed with hunger and the insatiable need to drag a giant bedsheet-sized piece of paper into a booth, to find a sausage sizzle in your electorate. Created by Australian legend and all-round goalkicker Grant Castner, Snagvotes compiles a list of all the polling booths in Australia, thankfully cross referencing sausage sizzles with cake stalls. Important. The site was unearthed by Junkee last year, and was so popular that it's back, spreading election day cheer (pinpointing exactly where you can go to stuff your face full of tubed pig meat, fried onions, local go-getter spirit and democracy). They're even giving back to the community with sausage-based 'How To Vote' guides. What a world we live in! In 2013, there were a staggering 1470 sausage sizzles across the county, at 19 percent of all polling booths and we're hoping like hell to beat that total in 2016. Volunteers can register their snag station here and snag-hungry voters can find their closest sizzle here. Remember to thank your barbecue team.
Calling an event WTF isn't something anyone should take lightly. In the case of Brisbane Powerhouse's biannual contemporary performance showcase, the acronym fits in two ways; however the World Theatre Festival is doing everything it can to live up to the other meaning of its moniker. That means a lineup bustling with the kinds of shows you're unlikely to see elsewhere. Maybe they're simply that new. Perhaps they haven't previously graced Australian stages. Sometimes, they're just so intent on challenging traditional definitions of theatre that there's really nothing else like them. Across a twelve-event program spanning February 18 to 27, that's what you'll find at WTF 2016. An attempt to be a better person, Cambodian rock and Maori myths feature among the schedule — and if you need help picking the best things to head along to, we've put together our list of the five we think are absolute must-sees.
Calling an event WTF isn’t something anyone should take lightly. In the case of Brisbane Powerhouse’s biannual contemporary performance showcase, the acronym fits in two ways; however the World Theatre Festival is doing everything it can to live up to the other meaning of its moniker. That means a lineup bustling with the kinds of shows you’re unlikely to see elsewhere. Maybe they’re simply that new. Perhaps they haven’t previously graced Australian stages. Sometimes, they’re just so intent on challenging traditional definitions of theatre that there’s really nothing else like them. Across a twelve-event program spanning February 18 to 27, that’s what you’ll find at WTF 2016. An attempt to be a better person, Cambodian rock and Maori myths feature among the schedule — and if you need help picking the best things to head along to, we’ve put together our list of the five we think are absolute must-sees.
From children playing in the sea near Arnhem Land to an elderly man cleaning his suburban pool, Australians from all walks of life are represented in the 22 stunning images chosen as finalists in this year's Australian Life photography contests. An initiative of Art and About Sydney, the competition is the second largest photography contest in the country, with a cash prize of $10,000. The winner will be announced on September 17, while all the finalists will be on display along the St James walkway in Sydney's Hyde Park from September 18 to October 11. The judges for this year's competition are previous winner Tamara Dean, ARTHERE founder and Stills Gallery curator Sandy Edwards, Australian Centre for Photography curator and exhibition programmer Mark Feary, and interior stylist, author and lifestyle blogger Jason Grant. Organisers have also partnered with Tourism Australia for a special Instagram competition, which last year drew more than 30,000 entries. Amateur photographers can submit their entries using the hashtag #australianlife and go in the running to win $5000. The Instagram competition closes on October 1, with winners announced on October 9.
More Neil Perry hamburgers are rolling out in Brisbane, with the announcement of a second venue headed for Edward Street this June. Since opening in Sydney's World Square in October 2014, the celebrity chef's high-end fast food joint Burger Project has become a favourite with Australian foodies, serving up a variation of his iconic Rockpool beef burger at a fraction of the price. The burger joint has since expanded to Melbourne and finally hit Brisbane in February 2017. And now, they're set to open Burger Project Number 12. Rockpool Dining Group and Perry will serve their first burgers at 144 Edward Street in the CBD on Tuesday, June 20 (Perry will be personally manning the kitchen from 11am on launch day). Designed by architect Grant Cheyne, the new 134 pax venue features an outdoor garden terrace overlooking Charlotte Street, takeaway counter for app-ordering customers, an open kitchen and interior murals. It'll be open until 9pm Sunday to Wednesday and until late Thursday to Saturday. So, what exactly do they serve at The Burger Project, anyway? Well, Perry is sticking closely to the winning World Square formula, so you can expect 12 tried-and-tested tasty burgers including the Magic Mushroom, the spicy fried chicken katsu and of course the classic American cheeseburger. Pair these with a classic shake or iced tea, or a cheeky brewski from Urban Craft Brewing Co — you'll find a rotating range of seasonal small batch brews on tap or bottled. For dessert, dive into one of their decadent ice cream creations such as the Blueberry Pie or The Bounty Hunter with vanilla bean ice cream with chocolate sauce, toasted coconut and crushed meringue. The Edward Street store is the twelfth Burger Project to open around the country, and the second in Brisbane. Neil Perry's Rockpool Group was acquired by the Urban Purveyor Group last year, and, as the newly formed Rockpool Dining Group. Burger Project is set to open at Shop 1, 144 Edward Street, Brisbane in Tuesday, June 20. Open Sunday to Wednesday, 11am – 9pm, Thursday to Saturday 11am – late. By Tom Clift and Lauren Vadnjal.
Hosting 24 events is nothing to be sneezed at. Hosting 24 evenings dedicated to the more artistic and experimental side of the music spectrum definitely isn't. Yes, MONO is back for the 24th time, and this time it's celebrating Terre Thaemlitz. From 7pm on April 13, the Institute of Modern Art will play host to the producer, writer, public speaker, educator, audio remixer, DJ, record label owner and more, who is also known by the name DJ Sprinkles. Thaemlitz will continue to take a look at identity politics and the commerce of media — her continued topics of fascination — in one of MONO's most anticipated performances.
Dropping in from the UK to play Groovin' the Moo, Brit singer-songwriter Charli XCX will be 'Boom Clap'ping her way through sideshows in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. In her own words, Ms XCX (AKA Charlotte Emma Aitchison) wants to give you "an hour of sweating and totally losing your mind, no matter what's going on that day or what you're worried about." Aitchison first attracted international attention in 2012, when she co-composed and performed on Icona Pop's hit 'I Love It', which played on Lena Dunham's Girls. In 2013, she released her own debut EP, True Romance, before joining forces with Iggy Azalea in 2014 on 'Fancy'. She and Azalea have since performed together all over the planet. Then, of course, along came 'Boom Clap', of The Fault in our Stars soundtrack, and the bratty 'Break The Rules'; confirming Charli XCX as a popstar in her own right. At the Met, she'll be supported by Adelaide's rising rapper Tkay Maidza, another bright spark changing the rules of pop. Image: Mike Massaro.
A wise person once said that you can never have too many brownies. Okay, that was most definitely us, but we're certain I Heart Brownies would agree. They're doing their best to keep Brisbanites devouring their tasty bites, after all. Not content with ranking among the city's must-visit market stalls, and then opening their own bakery and cafe, they're bringing their delicious morsels straight to your mouth. In a move that will make you heart their 100 percent gluten-free brownies even more, the baking wizards now deliver. You know what that means: you no longer have to get off the couch to get your brownie fix, other than to rush to the front door when they arrive, that is. That urge you're feeling — it's the urge to give them a call right now and order all the sweet treats you could dream of. With Turkish delight, Nutella and peanut butter and jelly offerings among their Belgian black cocoa and couverture chocolate-laden range, plus jaffa, cherry coconut and salted caramel as well, that reaction is understandable. In just as excellent news, I Heart Brownies deliver seven days a week, with their fees varying based on your distance away from the CBD. Given that you can also get booze and doughnuts ferried to you, too, it really is a glorious time to be alive. Find the I Heart Brownies Bakery and Café at Shop 7 Bakery Lane, 694 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley, or visit their website and Facebook page for more information.
Ice cream lovers of Brisbane — whatever you have planned from around 5pm on Wednesday, March 29, you'd best cancel it and prepare to spend the evening worshipping your dessert of choice. The day everyone fond of a frosty sweet treat has been waiting for will finally arrive when Gelato Messina throw open the doors to their first Brisbane store. Turning South Brisbane's Melbourne Street into the city's new gelato go-to, Messina will reveal their largest site in the country — and in true ice cream royalty style, they're also unleashing a brand new flavour to celebrate. Behold the appropriately named QUEENSLANDAARRR!!!, which earns its extra letters and flurry of exclamation marks by combining ginger gelato with pineapple cake and Bundaberg rum caramel. It'll be available in all stores around the country for one week from March 28, and in Brisbane from March 29. Messina's swish Brissie digs will be their second spot in Queensland, with Coolangatta lucky enough to get the jump on their creamy chilled confection back in February 2015. Because all good things come to those who wait, the new store won't just serve up varieties such as tiramisu, Bounty, coffee made with real espresso, roasted figs in marsala and milk chocolate with choc peanut fudge, but will also offer three-hour gelato appreciation classes that are basically ice cream degustation sessions. If you've feasted on Messina at their Milton Markets or Brisbane Ice Cream Festival pop-ups recently, you'll be clearing your calendar and breaking out your stretchiest outfits. Find Gelato Messina at Shop 1, 109 Melbourne Street, South Brisbane from around 5pm on Wednesday, March 29. Keep an eye on their website for more information.
This holiday season, there's only one decoration we want hanging from our Christmas tree. It's the latest absurd dessert from the team at Gelato Messina, who so far this year have created ice cream cigars, ice cream hamburgers and an ice cream inspired by an air freshener. Available just in time for a yuletide family feed, Messina's 2015 Christmas cake combines the tastes of gingerbread, pear and chocolate. With flavours that smooth, it's no wonder they called it the Michael Baulble. The limited edition dessert, which can be ordered now until December 22 through the Gelato Messina website, consists of burnt butter and gingerbread gelato with pear mouse and fruit mince florentine, enclosed in a chocolate dome and dusted with gold powder. It also comes with vanilla brandy custard, which should be warmed and applied generously before eating. The Michael Baulble costs $90 and can be picked up from select Messina stores in Sydney (Roseberry, Miranda and Parramatta), Melbourne (Fitzroy) and Queensland (Coolangatta). According to Messina it feeds 16 people, although let's be real here: there's no way you're sharing it with that many people. Sure, Christmas is the time for giving and all that, but everyone has their limits. https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=6&v=SUp6tmSbQN0 To order your own Michael Baulble, visit the Gelato Messina website. Via Good Food.
Australian diners, greasy, fast food is currently battling with wholesome, nutritious fast food for most on-trend — and our arteries are favouring the latter. Brisbane has just added one more go-to for nutritional nosh to its repertoire with The Farm Wholefoods opening in Newstead. After crafting three successful cafe-grocery-stores in Sydney, owners Josh and Lisa Thompson have brought their famed business north of the border to Gasworks Plaza. Their mission? Reminding Brisbanites that a well-rounded approach to wellness starts with a good meal. No scary calorie counters or sad-looking salads here. The cafe's interiors reflect its relaxed approach to healthy eating, with exposed brickwork, black steel, recycled timber and concrete showcasing an abundance of greenery and natural light. The Farm offers a seasonal menu focusing on fresh produce and hearty meals made from quality ingredients, ranging from the breakfast bowl (sourdough with smashed avocado, goats cheese, beans and scrambled eggs) to the bento lunch bowl (buckwheat, soba noodles, salmon, pickled ginger, edamame beans and avocado). Everything is made in-house daily, with a selection of smoothie bowls, salads, sandwiches, soups and sides on offer for dining in or taking away. If the 'Glowing Matcha Smoothie Bowl' (mango, banana, spinach and matcha powder blended with coconut water and topped with buckinis, chia seeds, coconut flakes and strawberries) inspires you to whip something up at home, they've also got you covered. The store offers a wide range of organic and ethically sourced ingredients for sale so you can conjure up some masterpieces in the comfort of your own kitchen. The Farm Wholefoods is open at Gasworks Plaza in Newstead for breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week.
When Bonnie Stevens helped establish Mous Magazine, she wanted to start a conversation, not finish it. With co-founder and editor Allie Speers, the creative director and business manager aimed to spark discussions that engaged intellect without repressing creativity. Now, after expanding from online to print, she is trying to bring that chat to life, crafting something more experiential for the publication's readers. A series of workshops and a month-long pop-up shop are the first steps in making her dreams a reality. The events provide an extension of Mous's focus on design and creation, which sits alongside three other categories — live, inform and fornicate — in written form. If the text of their first issue, as well as the articles on their website, uncovers new artists and draws attention to topical subjects, then their physical offshoots dive into the practical side beyond the printed page and the flicker of the computer screen. "I think a lot of the time it’s easy to be focused on engaging with people online, but what people are craving is real-life interaction," says Stevens. Mous's workshops are designed to allow "readers to meet and be taught by some of our favourite artists," while the pop-up store offers "easy access to the artworks, homewares and publications we’ve featured both online and in print." In the workshops, taking place in Mous's headquarters at Bardon Fairy House until October 31, keen Brisbane creatives can learn about everything from calligraphy and loom weaving to macramé and DIY zine making from local experts. Classes are kept small to ensure quality one-on-one time with the facilitator, as well as affordable and open to all skill levels. As Stevens puts it, "You don’t have to be the world’s most incredible artist to be creative." At the pop-up store during the month of October, shoppers will see the publication's pages come to life, offering a range where "most items we stock, particularly the artwork, magazines and zines have an awesome story behind them," says Stevens. "We are also focused on paying homage to the creators of the items we sell, so our store is laid out similarly to a gallery with didactics telling you about the artist or founder and their process." With a new monthly magazine club also about to be added to the mix, it all makes for a hub of activity and dialogue, as well as a showcase of up-and-coming Australian talent — another of Mous's motivations. "Whether it’s through art, furniture design, publishing or numerous other ventures, there are so many young people just excelling in their fields and we want to make sure we tell as many people as we can," advises Stevens. For more information on Mous Magazine, visit their website or Facebook page. Mous's /create/ workshops are held on Saturday afternoons at Bardon Fairy House, 24 Macgregor Terrace, Bardon. Their pop-up store is open from Wednesday to Sunday until October 31.
How do you like waffles? Drizzled with syrup? Slathered in cream and ice cream? With fried chicken? All pretty standard answers, really, but here's something that you probably haven't paired with your breakfast batter. How about waffles with beer? Everyone has their own threshold when it comes to unlikely food and drink pairings, however, if you're a mildly adventurous eater, then A Crafty Waffle is the event for you. Cancel your dinner plans on March 16, because you'll be matching lattice treats with different brews to create a sweet and savoury bonanza — you'll even come up with your own combos, too.
