The racing event of the year is nearly here. To celebrate, Jack Daniel's is bringing the hype (and noise) off-track with a bunch of live music and racing experiences across the city. Here's where to join the party. Jack's Street Party at Middle Park Hotel Middle Park Hotel is the destination for catching all of the race week action, no track pass required. From Thursday, March 5, through to Sunday, March 8, Jack Daniel's is bringing four days of racing, food, drinks, and entertainment to Middle Park Hotel. Located just minutes from the track, you and your friends can soak up the atmosphere (and engine sounds). Watch the races on mega screens and TVs, enjoy the pop-up bar and delicious food menu, and dance to live music and DJs every day. As a tribute to the McLaren Mastercard Formula 1 Team, Jack Daniel's, one of McLaren's official partners, is taking over the entire venue, with replica uniforms and helmets on display throughout the hotel, along with games, competitions, and prizes. From 5–6pm each day, Jack's Hour will take place, complete with drink specials and exclusive merch giveaways. Jack Daniel's has also collaborated with artist Glen Downey to produce a bespoke McLaren-Jack Daniel's-Melbourne-inspired piece of artwork. One lucky punter will win a driver-signed copy of the artwork by entering the competition during Jack's Hour each day. The weekend is free to attend and unticketed. Simply show up (first-come, first-served) and enjoy the atmosphere of race week at Middle Park Hotel. Jack's Bus Jack's Bus (yes, a literal bus) will be parked at Middle Park Hotel during the day. From 12–3pm each day, attendees will receive a bespoke cocktail on arrival, an expert insight into the history of Jack Daniel's and the McLaren racing team, as well as a tasting of a limited edition Jack Daniel's beverage and exclusive merchandise giveaways. Once the racing action is over, the bus will shuttle punters between Middle Park Hotel and The Espy to keep the party going. Jack's Karaoke at The Espy The Espy's Engine Room is set to transform into a high-energy karaoke arena for the long weekend. Step up, grab the mic, and you may end up the lead singer of Jack Daniel's House Band. Practice sessions are taking place on Thursday, March 5 and Friday, March 6. Saturday, March 7, is the qualifying heat to narrow the singers down to the final four. On Sunday, March 8, the finalists will take to the stage for the Loudest Lap, the ultimate karaoke showdown. The top prize (aside from your 15 minutes of fame) is $5K in cash, with all participants receiving a Jack Daniel's prize pack. Get ready for a weekend of belters and fun at The Espy's Engine Room. Jack's Garage at The Espy Ready to party the night away? Jack's Garage in The Espy's Gershwin Room is taking over with an electrifying lineup of Australian artists across four nights. On Thursday, March 5, electronic duo The Presets will set the tone for the exciting weekend. Friday, March 6 sees Slowly Slowly take to the stage with their local indie rock, while Saturday, March 7 brings DJ Anna Lunoe and her infectious house and electronic beats to The Espy. Finally, on Sunday, March 8, Keli Holiday wraps up Melbourne's race week with a high-energy gig that's sure to get you dancing. All performances are live and free, so RSVP here and arrive early to avoid capacity limits in the Gershwin Room. Even if you miss out on tickets, all gigs will be live-streamed on screens across the venue. This means you can still enjoy the tunes and have a dance at The Espy to some legendary acts. Jack's Pit Stop at Crown Casino Throughout race weekend, Crown Melbourne will become Jack's Pit Stop. By heading to The Pub, Sports Bar and Jackpot, you could win a free trip to Las Vegas with the purchase of any Jack Daniel's product, as well as a Jack Daniel's Pit Crew customisable t-shirt. Make it one of your pit stops across the racing-obsessed week. McLaren will bring speed to the Albert Park racing track, but Jack Daniel's is making sure Melbourne feels the energy. Between parties and fan hubs, live music and karaoke, there's no better way to enjoy the March weekend. Image Credit: Supplied
For many, it's not really Easter unless you've scoffed your bodyweight in hot cross buns in the lead-up. And, thankfully, you don't have to forego that tradition this year, either. A stack of local Brisbane bakeries are here to fix your cravings, self-isolation or otherwise, launching handy hot cross bun home-delivery services all across town. Jump on the phone or the web to make an order and within hours you'll be tucking into some handcrafted Easter buns, plump with fruit, loaded with spices and slathered with lashings of butter. From the traditional glazed version, to some crafty new-world remixes, here's our pick of hot cross buns you can now get delivered straight to your door. If you are going out to pick up takeaway, have a look at the latest COVID-19 advice and social-distancing guidelines from the Department of Health. CHOCOLATE HOT CROSS BUNS FROM JOCELYN'S PROVISIONS For years, cult-favourite bakery and dessert shop Jocelyn's Provisions has been answering those Easter cravings in style, with handcrafted hot cross buns that pretty much fly out the door. This year, it's whipping up two different varieties of the seasonal staple — a traditional glazed version packed with dried fruit and a blend of spices, and a decadent riff boasting plenty of melty choc chips infused through the dough. Both buns are an easy $12.50 for a six-pack. They're available for delivery to a range of Brisbane suburbs, with a $5 flat-rate fee and a $20 order minimum. How? Order online for pick up or call (07) 3852 3799 for delivery. HOT CROSS BROWNIES FROM DELLO MANO It might be best known for its indulgent chocolate brownies, but this year Dello Mano is having a crack at some hot cross buns as well. These newly debuted treats are the kind that stick with tradition, featuring spiced dough studded with loads of fruit. Or, if you fancy something a little more inventive, there's the long-time seasonal favourite 'Hot Cross Brownies' — rich brownies hand-dipped in Belgian chocolate and finished with a white chocolate cross. Both are available for delivery across Brisbane and you can even score same-day drop-off for orders placed before 11am. How? Order delivery via the Dello Mano website. GLUTEN FREE HOT CROSS BUNS FROM NODO The masters of natural, gluten-free treats at Nodo have created the dietary-friendly Easter bun you've been dreaming of. These glazed hot cross buns feature an assortment of warm spices, dried blueberries and currants, clocking in at $24 for a six-pack. Or for something a little different, try Nodo's 'Hot Cross Donut', infused with dates and Easter spices, and covered in couverture chocolate ($6 each). A contactless delivery service is now available from Nodo's Newstead and Camp Hill stores, with a $50 minimum order and a $5 flat-rate delivery fee. Just give them at least 24 hour's notice and you should score your buns between 9am and 1pm the following day. How? Nodo's hot cross buns can pre-ordered online and delivered within 24 hours. ORGANIC VINE FRUIT HOT CROSS BUNS FROM PHILLIPPA'S Long-running bakery Phillippa's is here to ensure all your hot cross bun cravings are fulfilled this Easter, even if you're stuck at home. Its chewy glazed buns are a perennial favourite, crafted with slow-fermented dough, house-made candied peel and loads of organic vine fruit. A box of six will set you back $18, with Australia-wide shipping available for a flat-rate of $9.95. And, if isolation's left you feeling a little creative, jump over to the website to find a couple of crafty recipes to put any extra buns to good use. Toasted hot cross bun ice cream might just be the Easter treat you've been waiting for. How? Phillippa's hot cross buns can be ordered online and delivered. CLASSIC HOT CROSS BUN FROM CRUST & CO A traditional artisan bakery with both French and Italian roots, Newmarket's Crust & Co has your classic hot cross bun fix sorted. Its signature Easter buns are an annual hit, made on buttery brioche and crammed full of spices, dried fruit and ginger. And this year, it's even easier to get your hands on a serve, with a new $3 home delivery service available to nearby suburbs, Thursday–Sunday. A half dozen buns clocks in at $10 — grab two packs and you've made the $20 minimum order cut-off. Shoot Crust & Co an email with your details and order before 3pm, and you should have it in your hands the next morning. How? Check out the full menu here Email orders@crustandco.com.au for delivery. Top image: Nodo Hot Cross Donuts
Travelling for work isn't always the perk you imagine. When it comes to hitting the road for your day job, you're most likely cooped up inside the four walls of a budget hotel rather than exploring the sights. However, Big4 Holiday Parks has a new competition, The Big Aussie Review, where the winner scores a travel gig that many of us have spent years dreaming about. With applications now open, you've got the chance to become BIG4's official Travel Reviewer, tasked with spending 365 days travelling across Australia. The assignment? Uncover and review the small-town favourites, roadside stops and unexpected moments that turn a good trip into a great one. With one lucky duo — partner or best mate — or family awarded the job, you'll crisscross the country in a Ford Ranger and Crusader caravan, stopping at Big4 Holiday Parks along the way. Travelling from the Top End to Tassie, the brief is simple: capture and produce top-notch video, social and editorial content that inspires Australians to rediscover their own backyard. "Australians don't need a passport to have an incredible holiday," says Big4 Holiday Parks CEO Sean Jenner. "We're a nation that loves a review, and The Big Aussie Review is about shining the spotlight onto the magical stuff and celebrating what makes travel in Australia so special." Oh, that car and caravan we mentioned? Once this year-long adventure is over, they're yours to keep. Plus, your 12-month trip includes petrol costs, weekly food allowances, thousands of dollars' worth of travel equipment, and a car load of content creation gear, including a new iPhone 17 Pro and Starlink satellite internet, so you can keep the world informed about your adventures. Fancy yourself as the next Michael Palin or Jan Morris? The selection criteria are straightforward. All Big4 asks is that you love to travel, can't stop creating content and have a keen eye for spotting the magic in the everyday. To apply, visit the website and upload a 60-second video of yourself reviewing anything that you love, no matter how silly. Applications for Big4 Holiday Parks' The Big Aussie Review are now open. Head to the website for more information.
Enter one of Yayoi Kusama's infinity rooms, including the Japanese icon's brand-new Infinity Mirrored Room–My Heart is Filled to the Brim with Sparkling Light at the National Gallery of Victoria, and it appears as if the artist's work goes on forever. A great exhibition dedicated to Kusama evokes the same sensation. Accordingly, when you're not staring at a seemingly endless celestial universe while enjoying a world-premiere piece from the talent that's been unveiled for the first time ever in Melbourne, you'll still feel as if Kusama's touches are everywhere around you. Simply titled Yayoi Kusama, NGV International's big summer 2024–25 showcase features 200 works, so there really is enough Kusama art to envelop attendees in dots, mirrors, balls, tentacles, pumpkins, flowers, rainbow hues and her other beloved flourishes. With ten immersive installations, the exhibition breaks the world record for the number of such pieces by the artist assembled in one spot. The showcase is also the largest-ever Kusama retrospective that Australia has ever seen. Open since Sunday, December 15, 2024 and running until Monday, April 21, 2025, Yayoi Kusama has taken over the St Kilda Road gallery's entire ground floor with a childhood-to-now survey of its subject's creative output. With the artist reaching 95 years of age in March 2024, there's eight decades of art on display. Some pieces have never been seen Down Under until now. Some are sourced from private collections, and others from Kusama's own personal stash. In advance of the exhibition's launch, Melbourne welcomed Kusama's five-metre-tall dot-covered Dancing Pumpkin sculpture in NGV International's Federation Court. Outside the gallery, Kusama's Ascension of Polka Dots on the Trees wrapped the trunks of more than 60 trees in pink-and-white polka-dotted material before Yayoi Kusama opened its doors, too. Now comes the chance to explore the complete showcase, which is also one of the most-comprehensive retrospectives devoted to the artist to be staged globally. Forget booking in a trip to Kusama's Tokyo museum for the next few months, then — all that Melburnians need to do is stay local, and Australians elsewhere just need to head to the Victorian capital. Other highlights include NGV International's glass waterwall going pink, but with black rather than white dots; Kusama's new version of Narcissus Garden, which dates back to 1966 and features 1400 30-centimetre-diameter silver balls this time around, sitting in front of the waterwall and in parts of Federation Court; and the yellow-and-black spheres of Dots Obsession hanging over the Great Hall. Then there's the artist's sticker-fuelled, all-ages-friendly The Obliteration Room, where audiences young and old pop coloured dots everywhere — 'obliterating', as Kusama calls it — to cover an apartment interior that's completely white otherwise. Flower Obsession is another participatory piece, returning from the 2017 NGV Triennial. Again, you're asked to add to the work. Here, red flowers are applied to a domestic space — and again, obliterating it is the mission. If you adore the artist's way with mirrors, you'll want to see 2016's Chandelier of Grief, which features baroque-style chandelier spinning within a hexagon of mirrors; 2013's Love Is Calling, where tentacles in different colours spring from both the floor and the ceiling; and 2017's The Spirits of the Pumpkins Descended into the Heavens, which gets viewers peering at glowing pumpkins as far as the eye can see through a small peephole. In Invisible Life, convex mirrors line a twisting and multi-hued corridor. With its six-metre-tall tendrils — which are covered in polka dots, naturally — the yellow-and-black The Hope of the Polka Dots Buried in Infinity Will Eternally Cover the Universe from 2019 is striking without using a looking glass (or several), and makes its Australian premiere. Prefer flowers instead? Set within a dotted space, All My Love for the Tulips, I Pray Forever from 2013 sees a trio of giant tulips loom over audiences. Overall, Yayoi Kusama steps through the artist's 80-plus years of making art via a thematic chronology. While a number of pieces hail from her childhood, others are far more recent. Her output in her hometown of Matsumoto from the late 30s–50s; the results of relocating to America in 1957; archival materials covering her performances and activities in her studios, especially with a political charge, in the 60s and 70s; plenty from the past four decades: they all appear. Any chance to see Yayoi Kusama's work in Australia is huge news, and reason to make a date — including travel plans, if needed. Here's another drawcard: the NGV has also added Friday-night parties to the mix, kicking off on Friday, December 20, 2024 for some pre-Christmas fun, then running for 18 weeks until Friday, April 18, 2025. Yayoi Kusama displays at NGV International, St Kilda Road, Melbourne until Monday, April 21, 2025 — and NGV Friday Nights: Yayoi Kusama runs each Friday night from 6–10pm between Friday, December 20, 2024–Friday, April 18, 2025. Head to the NGV website for more details and tickets. Images: Visitors and artworks in the Yayoi Kusama exhibition at NGV International, Melbourne until 21 April 2025. © YAYOI KUSAMA. Photos: Danielle Castano, Sean Fennessy, Tobias Titz and Kate Shannassy.
Australia's biggest cities certainly hold their own when it comes to the world's best food capitals. But if there's one type of cuisine that lacks the same plethora of options compared to, say, Italian, Vietnamese or Greek, people tend to agree it's Mexican. While access to essential ingredients has steadily improved over the years — think nixtamalised corn tortillas, specialty chillies and Oaxaca cheese — satisfying your culinary cravings isn't always easy. However, lovers of Mexican cuisine can soon experience one of the best from the country itself, as CDMX-based taqueria El Vilsito is bringing its incredible food halfway across the world to our shores. Descending on Howard Smith Wharves in Brisbane and Manly Wharf in Sydney for two-weekend-long residencies this March, the tour is all part of an authentic takeover of La Mexicana — a Mexican food festival running alongside the tequila-soaked Margarita Week. For the occasion, two chefs from El Vilsito are making the long trip to Australia, working alongside a local culinary team to ensure the taqueria's crowd-pleasing tacos hit in precisely the same way as when served from their Mexico City mechanic's workshop. For the uninitiated, the eatery is especially admired for its tacos al pastor, where marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit is thinly sliced and served in corn tortillas. "El Vilsito was one of those places that stays with you," says Howard Smith Wharves Brand Director Katie Moubarak, who experienced the taqueria during a research trip to Mexico. "From the moment I stepped inside, the energy, the generosity and the food felt completely alive. Being able to bring their chefs and their way of cooking to Australia felt like a natural next step after experiencing it firsthand." Given the widespread international recognition El Vilsito has received over the years, its arrival in Australia is significant. Not only has the taqueria been recommended by the Michelin Guide, but it's also featured in The New York Times' 36 Hours in Mexico City Guide and in Netflix's Taco Chronicles. To make the experience even more special, Sandra Blanco, daughter of El Vilsito owner Juan Carlos Blanco, is also travelling to Australia. "We've welcomed so many Australians to El Vilsito over the years, and their love for our tacos has always stayed with us," says Sandra Blanco. "Our family has been making food here for nearly forty years, so being able to bring our chefs and recipes to Australia and cook them in the same way we do at home feels incredibly special." The El Vilsito pop-up is happening at La Mexicana from Thursday, March 5–Sunday, March 8 and Thursday, March 12–Sunday, March 15 at Howard Smith Wharves in Brisbane. Then, in Sydney at Manly Wharf from Thursday, March 19–Sunday, March 22 and Thursday, March 26–Sunday, March 29. Images: Andrea Tejeda K.
A decade ago, you would have been hard-pressed to find an accessible dining experience of a similar calibre and philosophy as those you saw in shows similar to Chef's Table. Lucky for us in present day, eco-friendly dining is no longer limited to small pockets of artisanal growers and eco-conscious chefs. Restaurants all over Australia are proving time and time again that taste and sustainability aren't mutually exclusive. Sourcing produce from their own 80-acre working farms, creating closed-loop dining experiences with micro rooftop worm gardens and growing heirloom varieties with the help of trusted friends — chefs are honing in eco-friendly practices all while delivering gourmet menus. With that in mind, we've teamed up with Stoneleigh Wild Valley, whose hands-off winemaking philosophy lets nature do its thing to create a 'natural expression' of Marlborough wines, to highlight six innovative eateries across the country with strong connections to nature. [caption id="attachment_677793" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nikki To.[/caption] QUAY — SYDNEY Quay has always been one of the shining beacons of Australia's fine dining scene, but what you might not know is that it's now one of the country's most sustainably minded restaurants, too. World-renowned chef Peter Gilmore has been gardening for over a decade at home, becoming addicted to the lifecycle of plants and herbs. His interest has carried over to the Quay kitchen where produce from trusted farms, like Palisa Anderson's Boon Luck Farm, inform the menu. Specially grown red speckled peas are served with aged Maremma duck; newly created heirloom purple corn is set against a rich oxtail broth; crystallised caramel is punctuated with both a prune jam and a prune cream; and well, you get the picture. It's nature-inspired food at its best. ATTICA — MELBOURNE Long before sustainability was the trend on everyone's lips, Attica's owner-chef Ben Shewry was foraging with his family for mussels and shellfish along the coast of Taranaki, New Zealand. And with one look at Attica's menu, it's obvious those early ideas of hyperlocal eating have stayed him. The menu reveals his respect for eco-friendly seafood such as hand-caught crab and native ingredients like black and green ants sourced from Indigenous farmers. Deliciously gooey whipped emu eggs and honey-laden finger limes also demonstrate his devotion to Australia's homegrown flavours. Then there's Attica's garden. Boasting over 100 varieties of herbs (there's apparently 16 different types of basil) and other flora that makes its way onto dinner plates, it's the cherry on top of an already exceptional commitment to taste, Australian cuisine and, of course, the environment. [caption id="attachment_704269" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kitti Gould.[/caption] PAPERBARK — SYDNEY If inventive and exciting meat-free cooking sounds right up your alley then it's time to pay a visit to Paperbark. Opened in June 2018, the relative newcomer has quickly made waves in Sydney's already exceptional vegan dining scene. There's no simple way to explain the cuisine here, except to say it's all tied together by a commitment to native Australian ingredients. There's wattleseed and finger lime atop pumpkin tostadas, strawberry gum mole mopped up with doughy rye from eco-friendly bakery Iggy's Bread and mango and lemon myrtle meringue. It's all delicious, all the time. THREE BLUE DUCKS — BRISBANE Three Blue Ducks is no stranger to the eco-friendly dining scene. Ever since the three original owners opened their small paddock-to-plate eatery in Bronte, Sydney in 2010, they've been proving that sustainability doesn't mean sacrificing on flavour, it means improving it. Now, almost a decade later, they have three additional partners and four new locations. Set inside the W Brisbane hotel and open breakfast, lunch and dinner, the latest restaurant sources much of its produce from Three Blue Ducks' own 80-acre working farm in Byron Bay, as well as other local ethical growers. Expect wood-fired proteins with season veg like porchetta with smoked parsnip purée, beetroot and apple salad, fennel granola and mustard jus or the fish of the day with corn, smoked eggplant chilli, cucumber, heirloom tomato and preserved lemon. MESA VERDE — MELBOURNE Meaning 'green table' in Spanish, Mesa Verde brings fresh Mexican dishes to level six at Curtin House. The cantina serves smaller plates from the sea and land, like market fish ceviche or zesty heirloom zucchini tostadas, as well as larger plates of braised lamb shoulder, cauliflower tlayuda and mushroom entomatadas. Then there's the full taco menu with fillings ranging from cochinita-style roasted eggplant to beer-battered fish tacos to braised beef cheek. All of these dishes are peppered with fresh herbs and spices grown in the roof's vegetable gardens. There's even a rooftop worm farm to help fertilise the vege patch. In a feat of small-scale closed-loop cooking, chef Kathy Reed and her team use vegetable off-cuts to feed the worms and create fertiliser, which in turn helps grow the rare Mexican ingredients that pack an irresistible punch on the restaurant's menu. FLOCK EATERY — REDCLIFFE Featuring a winning combination of picturesque views across Moreton Bay and a farm-to-plate dining experience that caters to all your dietary needs, it's no surprise the Flock Eatery in Redcliffe is a closely guarded secret by those in the know. Breakfast favourites like the smokey king brown mushrooms and eggs benny paired with seasonal greens are both delightfully tasty and ethically sourced from nearby farmers. The best part? Any leftovers are composted at the wonderful LOOP.Growers farm so that nothing is wasted. Make sure to try the coffee; Tim Adams Specialty Coffee roasts it locally. Connect to nature through food at the above eateries and through drink with Stoneleigh Wild Valley, whose 2017 sauvignon blanc recently won gold at the New York International Wine Competition 2019. Top image: Paperbark by Trent van der Jagt.
At plenty of Fortitude Valley bars, you can dance the night away. At some, you can play games, get putting and win prizes instead. Only at Pawn & Co, however, can you buy everything in sight — and not just the beverages — in-between making your own scent. Some of the tipples that you'll be sipping while you browse, hang out, and just generally take advantage of this combined watering hole, pawn shop and perfumery are inspired by fragrances as well. It's a bold concept: a nightclub that not only takes its cues from completely different kinds of establishments that don't normally serve drinks, but operates as them, too. Pawn & Co first debuted in Melbourne and, as initially announced in July 2024, has now made its first foray outside of Victoria on Ann Street in Brisbane. The 500-square-metre Bakery Lane space that Laruche previously called home has undergone a $4-million refurbishment to cater to its new inhabitant — and to ensure that patrons know that they're in the type of bar that's new to the River City. Yes, you can purchase whatever you like within Pawn & Co's walls. If you've been known to window-shop when having a few tipples — wondering if your own cocktails would taste better out of the same glasses, if your lounge room would be more relaxing with the same couches and if your dining room would be moodier with the same lighting, for instance — then you can turn that pondering into a reality here. Need a new handbag? A watch? A $390,000 Bentley, which sits in the front window? They're just some of the items that you can go home with if you mix your drinks with a spending spree. Fancy your own signature scent? You can create them while you're there, complete with masterclasses with perfumers. Obviously the drinks are for sale, too, but you can't take them with you. How do you deck out a place that slings drinks, aromas and all that falls within its walls? Co-founders Josh Lefers and Stephen Wools, plus their collaborators Steve Thomas and Alex Docherty — who also boast Ballers Clubhouse in Melbourne and Adelaide, and Melbourne's StoryVille and 29th Apartment, on their combined resumes — have gone luxe. Pawn & Co Brisbane features an art deco-inspired piano bar among its many other inclusions, such as rich colours, retro patterns and slide-out furniture. And the atmosphere? Elegant, lavish and piquing patrons' curiosity, befitting somewhere where martinis and Rolexes sit side by side on the menu. The vibe may scream lavish, but getting inspiration from pawn shops also means appreciating the circular economy and sustainability. Accordingly, while some of the objects on sale are upmarket goods, others are pre-loved and hail from thrift stores. Images: Dominic Loneragan.
If you have never been to China, you might have heard from someone who has that nowhere in Brisbane can you find ‘good’ Peking duck. This killjoy may have even gone on to utter perhaps the most pompous word in all culinary critique — ‘inauthentic’. We prefer to believe that if you haven’t found a Peking duck to love in this city, you simply haven’t looked hard enough. Not all of us are so lucky as to have sampled this centuries-old delicacy in its birthplace of Beijing, but lucky we are to have the following five restaurants in Brisbane. Though they may all take a slightly different approach to the mouth-watering little morsels of crispy duck skin wrapped in pancakes, they all serve up tasty Peking duck (or versions thereof). Pine and Bamboo Though the rest of this list is in no particular order, Pine and Bamboo is number one. Come here for the whole shebang. White-gloved waitstaff wheel a cart to your table then expertly cleave the crispy duck skin from the meat. The flavour is explosive (the house-made sauce, terrific), and nowhere else on this list reaches the same giddy heights. 968 Wynnum Road, Cannon Hill Yee Foong Run by a husband-and-wife team, Yee Foong has graced Brunswick Street for decades, though it is only in the last couple of years that they have added Peking duck to their menu. No frills here, but the plate of sliced duck is delicious and garnished with prawn crackers. The remainder of the bird is cut up and offered as a simple second course — highly recommended. 196 Wickham Street, Brisbane Yum Yum Peking Duck This Darra restaurant lives up to its adorable name. The Peking Duck for two people feels quite portion-controlled, made up exactly of six duck pancakes, two duck legs and two servings (four leaves) of san choy bau. In an unexpected twist, all three elements of the meal arrive at the table at once. 146 Scotts Road, Darra Suncrop Suncrop are known for their mud crab and for their lobster but are also a favoured Peking duck restaurant of those in the know. It is certainly good value, with a first course of 12 pancakes and a second course of six san choy bau costing $46.80. For smaller appetites, the half bird is available for $18.80. Sunnybank Plaza Shopping Centre, Sunnybank Peng You Peng You, meaning ‘friends’, is all about dining as a social experience; the food is designed to encourage a fun, hands-on and communal vibe. If you want to enjoy the flavours of Peking duck as part of a spread of share plates, in a modern inner-city setting, this is probably the one for you. Gasworks Plaza, 76 Skyring Terrace, Newstead
Perusing the menu at Petite brings the restaurant's name to mind. Diners will find 20 dishes on offer, each listed next to a wine that the team at the Fortitude Valley newcomer has chosen to pair perfectly with it, whether you're opting for a glass or a bottle. The goat's cheese croquettes are matched with a sauvignon blanc from Sancerre, for instance, and the the pan-fried gnocchi with comte cream gets a grenache blanc from Rhône to accompany it. Pick an eye fillet with pepper cognac sauce among the two steak frites options instead and it comes coupled with a merlot from Pomerol. The idea behind the latest venture from Cameron and Jordan Votan is to focus on French favourites. Cue the concise offering, although a second page of the menu spans to cheeses, desserts such as creme brûlée and chocolate soufflé, sweet wines, spirits, cocktails and other beverages. The brothers have broadened their focus from the Chinese cuisine on the menu at Happy Boy and Snack Man, but remained in the same East Street strip that they clearly love. Petite also follows pop-ups Kid Curry, Nice Thai and Mini, with the latter also taking tastebuds on a trip to France. Its chef Aubrey Courtel (ex-Greenglass) now leads the new restaurant's kitchen. Petite doesn't quite embody its moniker in size, however. On the main floor, including in leather booths beneath glass chandeliers, 70 diners can tuck into the eatery's dishes. Upstairs in the private dining room, groups of between eight and 50 can get comfortable while seated. The steel-frame windows that line the corner spot, which faces Ann and James streets, also make the space roomier. They give Petite another feel, too: the team describes the setup for passersby as akin to peering into a dollhouse. Something that both those strolling along outside and patrons eating inside can't miss is the open kitchen, where everything from baked scallops and kingfish carpaccio to onion tarte gratin with creme fraiche, cordon bleu and pork terrine is also whipped up. Of course, only those dining at Petite can settle in for the night, which is heartily encouraged — complete with a special button in the online booking system tailored for those taking their time. Whether Courtel and the crew are serving up confit duck or the ice cream or sorbet of the day, they're skewing simple and humble with their ingredients. Among the vino choices, Petite also keeps cognisant of price. Glasses start from $15, with the venue ensuring its sips are affordable by sourcing its wine from smaller producers across France. Design-wise, as well as the attention-grabbing windows, concrete pillars are a big feature — another touch that connects Petite with Happy Boy. If you know your Fortitude Valley history or just look outside, you'll also know that they nod to the suburb's air raid shelters. Images: Callie Marshall.
In a sunlit studio on Melbourne's northside, a nightclub-like room houses heavy basslines and the sound of gloved fists hitting boxing bags. In the adjacent room, reformer Pilates carriages, lit by yellow neon lights, move in sync. And in a third, heated space, a class is settling into dimly lit savasana — sweaty, centred, collective. This is Fitzroy, one of Upstate's now 17 locations that have come to redefine what modern movement looks like: less about aesthetics, more about community. For co-founder Gail Asbell, the philosophy that powers Upstate was shaped by something deeply human — loss. Seventeen years ago, Gail and her sister Charelle lost both their father and brother within a short time. Gail was working as a brand manager for Tourism Victoria, climbing a corporate ladder that, suddenly, didn't seem to matter much. "When you go through something like that, you can't help but question what you're doing with your life," she says. "It made me ask myself: what's my purpose?" [caption id="attachment_1074104" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Upstate co-founders, Gail and Charelle Asbell.[/caption] Both sisters turned to yoga to cope with their grief — separately, without knowing the other had done the same. "I'd never done yoga before," Gail recalls. "But it became this space where I could just breathe again." At the time, yoga in Australia was far from mainstream. "There wasn't a Lululemon in the country," she laughs. "You'd go to one studio and it was incense and chanting, then another would be super athletic. I loved how it made me feel — but I didn't want to be preached to. I just wanted to move my body and feel good." That experience became the seed of an idea. After training in the US, where yoga was gaining cultural momentum, Gail came home inspired. "I could see there was this gap — studios that were clean, consistent, and focused on how you felt, not how spiritual or flexible you were. I wanted to create a space for that." Together with her sister, she opened the first Upstate Studio in Geelong. "There was no grand plan," she says. "I was pregnant at the time. We thought we'd open one little studio while our kids were young. But it just took off." From that first space came 17 studios across Victoria and beyond — each an embodiment of the brand's mission: to help people find a positive state of mind through movement and connection. Accessibility and community have been part of the DNA since day one. "We grew up on a dairy farm," Gail says. "We didn't come from money. We wanted to make movement something everyone could access — fun, affordable and non-intimidating." That's the spirit behind Upstate's bright yellow branding — "all about positivity and energy," Gail explains — and its inclusive mix of class styles. Yoga and pilates anchor the offering, but boxing has become one of its most-loved modalities. "Boxing's been around forever, but we wanted to teach it in an Upstate way — high energy, fun and empowering," she says. "It's not about sparring or competition. It's about walking out of class feeling powerful." [caption id="attachment_1011773" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Upstate's Palm Beach studio.[/caption] Power, for Gail, has little to do with domination. It's about confidence — something she says is central to both movement and leadership. "Empowerment's a funny word," she reflects. "It gets thrown around a lot. For me, it's not about shouting it from the rooftops. It's about helping people build confidence to try new things, to fail and get back up again." That ethos runs through the business. Upstate now employs around 90 full-time and part-time staff, plus more than 250 instructors across Australia — and nearly all of its leadership team started as teachers. "Last year, 95 percent of our roles were filled internally," Gail says. "When someone comes in as an instructor and works their way up into marketing, operations or education, that's empowerment to me — giving women opportunities to back themselves." It's also why Upstate recently launched its own instructor training programs. "We saw a gap — people were graduating with the theory but didn't have the confidence to teach," she says. "We wanted to prepare people to stand in a room, use their voice and feel capable." The result has been more than just new recruits. "Our senior instructors have become educators," Gail says proudly. "It's created a whole new level of opportunity in the business." [caption id="attachment_1069777" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Instructors at Upstate's newest studio, Oakleigh.[/caption] Beyond the studios, Upstate has evolved into a lifestyle brand — hosting retreats, events and collaborations that extend its community beyond the mat. "There's such an appetite for movement paired with connection — whether that's a yoga and wine night, or a mindfulness event," she says. "We send the invite and it's booked within hours." That sense of connection remains deeply personal for Gail. "Movement can completely change how you think and feel," she says. "Even something as small as taking a breath at the start of class — it can shift your whole state of mind." Seventeen years on, the grief that first brought Gail to the mat has transformed into purpose — and a thriving community that continues to grow. "Sometimes we don't stop to reflect," she admits. "But when I see all our team together, or hear a member say a class changed their day, that's when it hits me. This is why we started." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Upstate Retreats (@upstate_retreats) The brand's next chapter includes continued instructor training, overseas retreats, a new Brisbane studio and a top-secret new class offering, but the mission hasn't changed: "It's still about helping people feel good and giving them the confidence to take up space — in the studio, at work, in life," Gail says. To mark International Women's Day this year, Upstate is putting that philosophy into action by launching a fully funded Pilates Instructor Training Scholarship for a lucky recipient, and on Sunday, March 8, members are also invited to bring a woman who inspires them to class for free. Find out more about Upstate — including studio locations, memberships, retreats and instructor training — via the website. Images: Supplied
For the uninitiated, a meeple is a human-shaped player token commonly used in board games, derived from the term 'my people'. If you already knew this, chances are you'll find your people at West End cafe Meeple and Mug. Although the cafe feels like a library with its mismatched lounging and modern white-and-dark-green walls, it would be hard to get any work done in such a temptingly fun atmosphere. Nothing says 'hang here all day' quite like a near-encyclopedic collection of nearly 300 board games — and the staff never kick anyone out until the games are over. The collection features all your classic family game night picks, new game releases, and staff picks from independent Australian board game makers. The entertainment at this unabashedly geeky cafe starts at the door — customers can roll a dice to determine their price. Get lucky and roll a two for $2 board games all day – just beware the dreaded 12. No game sesh is complete without something to munch on. Fuel up with a cuppa and plenty of comfort snacks (think chicken nuggets, loaded fries, saucy meatballs and even a veggie curry), plus an array of sweet treats such as doughnuts and ice cream. If you're feeling sharp enough to keep your head in the game, get boozy with a list of playful board game-themed cocktails and a solid beer and spirit selection. Beyond fun and bar bites, Meeple and Mug is all about community. From table markers that help players connect to regular LGBTQIA+ events and how-to-play evenings, it's a space where anyone ready to roll the dice can feel right at home. Images by Katie Ann Morfoot and supplied
With a fresh (an exclusive) Hiroshi Sugimoto exhibition at the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia (MCA), now is the perfect time to indulge in some Japanese culture right here in Sydney. MCA is known for its world-class art exhibitions and is a leading cultural destination for tourists and locals alike. The Hiroshi Sugimoto: Time Machine exhibition is now at the MCA until October 27. This exclusive exhibition is the largest display of Sugimoto's work ever presented and his first in the southern hemisphere. Featuring nearly 100 of his most iconic and rarely-seen pieces, it showcases over 50 years of the artist's groundbreaking photography. Organised in collaboration with London's Hayward Gallery and supported by Destination NSW, Time Machine is set to be a highlight of the MCA's calendar. Whether you're a seasoned art lover or simply curious, Hiroshi Sugimoto: Time Machine is a must-see event on your Japanese-themed tour of the city. [caption id="attachment_952847" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kahii Kissaten Match, KWPhotography, Matthew Wong[/caption] Morning Start your day with a taste of Tokyo in Surry Hills. Wander over to Parami on Alberta Street, where breakfast comes in the form of onigiri, humble but oh-so-satisfying rice triangles. Whether you go for the wagyu, salted salmon, or a breakfast favourite like bacon and egg, you'll find yourself wondering why you ever settled for avo on toast. Pair that with a matcha latte, and you're set. For a sweeter start to your day, head to the cult-favourite Gram Cafe's CBD outpost and indulge in its famous soufflé pancakes. [caption id="attachment_972871" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Hiroshi Sugimoto, installation view, Hiroshi Sugimoto: Time Machine, Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, 2024, image courtesy the artist and Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, © the artist, photograph: Zan Wimberley[/caption] Now that your belly is happy, it's time to feed your artistic soul. Make your way to the MCA for Hiroshi Sugimoto: Time Machine, an immersive exploration of Sugimoto's work. As one of the most renowned photographers of our time, Sugimoto has made an indelible mark on contemporary art. He captures ethereal and contemplative images that challenge the boundaries of time, history and reality. The MCA has curated a dynamic program of talks, workshops, family-friendly activities, and film screenings, all designed to further engage visitors with Sugimoto's unique vision. Mark your calendar for Friday, October 11, when the museum will host a special 'Up Late' event, celebrating Japanese culture through art, music, and performance, offering an unforgettable evening experience. [caption id="attachment_972870" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Hiroshi Sugimoto, Opticks 195, 2018, installation view, Hiroshi Sugimoto: Time Machine, Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, 2024, chromogenic print, image courtesy the artist and Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, © the artist, photograph: Zan Wimberley[/caption] After soaking in Sugimoto's art, refuel at Kahii Kissatten in the CBD. A nod to Japan's traditional tea rooms, this spot is part of the buzzing YCK Laneways precinct but with a much more serene vibe. Here, you can savour a house-roasted small-batch coffee, sip on Uji-sourced matcha, or go all out with a black sesame cloud drink. Pair your bevvy with one of their Japanese-inspired pastries (we're talking banana tiramisu pastries and almond croissants), and you're all set. Afternoon With your caffeine cravings satisfied, it's time to channel your own inner artisan with some traditional Japanese art. Head to Kintsugi Australia, and try your hand at kintsugi, the Japanese practice of mending broken pottery with lacquer and gold. It's all about celebrating imperfections, a philosophy that'll have you looking at life's cracks and flaws in a whole new light. Kintsugi Australia offers a range of courses, whether you are looking for something modern, traditional, beginner or intensive. After flexing your creative skills, enjoy a satisfying sushi lunch at the sleek underground sushi restaurant Toko on George Street or head out to Ume Burger in Barangaroo or its outpost in Darling Harbour for delicious Japanese burgers, lotus chips and crisp Japanese lager. No day of Japanese culture would be complete without a little retail therapy. Head to Kinokuniya, Sydney's best Japanese bookstore, for everything from manga to art books. Then, swing by Muji and Uniqlo to pick up minimalist homewares and effortlessly stylish clothing that'll have you embracing the Japanese principle of 'less is more.' And, of course, make time for a quick stop at a Gacha Gacha machine — who doesn't love a capsule toy surprise? — there are numerous Gacha Gachas dotted throughout the CBD. [caption id="attachment_887361" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Bay Nine, Declan Blackall[/caption] Evening As the sun sets, treat yourself to a luxe Japanese dinner at Bay Nine Omakase in Circular Quay. Here, you'll be spoiled with a chef's selection of seasonal dishes crafted with the finest ingredients in the tradition of omakase dining. Prefer something more casual? Check out Nakano Darling for an izakaya feast. For dessert, head over to LeTAO for a luxurious slice of Japanese cheesecake. Still have some energy left? Slide into Rekodo, a vinyl bar at Barangaroo where tunes meet Japanese whisky — an ideal combo for a laidback evening. Or, if you're feeling more lively, pop into Bancho in Haymarket for a cocktail and a nightcap. Finally, no Japanese-inspired day would be complete without a karaoke session. Head to Goros in Surry Hills, where you can belt out your favourite anthems while sipping on sake in one of the private rooms, challenge your mates to arcade games or dance the night away at the popular Japanese dive bar spot. Whether you're diving into art, sipping on matcha, or singing your heart out, Sydney's got all the ingredients for a Japanese day out that's anything but ordinary — no passport required. Hiroshi Sugimoto: Time Machine runs from August 2 until October 27, 2024. Tickets can be purchased from MCA's website. Tickets cost $28 for adults and $20 for concessions, excluding booking fee. Entry is free to MCA members, youth (13–17 year-olds) and children (12 year-olds and younger).
There are only a handful of soundtracks that can make millennials' hair stand on end — one of which is Harry Potter™. If you've ever wanted to hear John Williams' instantly recognisable Oscar-nominated score live, you're in luck as Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone™ In Concert is about to cast a spell over Sydney. To celebrate 25 years of witchcraft and wizardry on screen, the Sydney Symphony Orchestra is performing the entire film soundtrack live. Running across five performances from Wednesday, December 2 to Saturday, December 5, the film that began the series will be screened in high definition, while the orchestra brings John Williams' epic score to life. See the first Hogwarts letter being delivered, the beginnings of Harry, Ron and Hermione's friendship, a troll running amok, and the story that inspired a generation, all backed by an expert live orchestra. Whether you're a Potterhead yourself or are introducing the magic of the film to someone for the first time, you can expect to experience a whole new level of enchantment at the Sydney Opera House this December. Book your tickets now. Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone™ In Concert is rated PG. Please note: children aged 15 years and under must be accompanied by an adult at all times when attending concerts at the venue. All characters and elements © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Publishing Rights © JKR.
Fancy reliving your childhood film favourites on the stage? That seems to be the current trend. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is doing big business in Melbourne, the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory musical has been taking its golden tickets around the country, and now Shrek the Musical is bringing its all-singing, all-dancing version of the animated movie franchise to Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. Expect plenty of green when this Tony and Grammy award-nominated stage show finally makes its way to our shores, after first premiering on Broadway back in 2008. Since then, everyone's favourite ogre has sung his way through theatres in the UK, Asia Europe, Canada, Latin and South America, Israel and Scandinavia. Although exact dates haven't been revealed, the character originally voiced by Mike Myers will bound across the Sydney Lyric Theatre at The Star from early January 2020, then hit up Her Majesty's Theatre, Melbourne and the Lyric Theatre, Brisbane. You know the story, of course — unless you somehow managed to miss the original 2001 Oscar-winning film, its sequels in 2004, 2007 and 2010, and the heap of spin-offs, shorts, TV specials and series that all followed. Based on the 1990 picture book Shrek!, the tale follows the reclusive but kindly titular figure who endeavours to rescue the feisty Princess Fiona from the the fairy tale-hating Lord Farquaad, all while trekking along with a talking Donkey sidekick. Australian cast details haven't been revealed, but Shrek lovers can expect a whopping 19 songs, an obvious colour scheme and plenty of other fairy tale references. Check out the trailer for the production's UK run below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g2VQ2pfXbyI Shrek the Musical will tour Australia from 2020, starting with a Sydney season at the Sydney Lyric Theatre, The Star from January. Complete dates — including for the show's seasons at Her Majesty's Theatre, Melbourne and the Lyric Theatre, Brisbane — are yet to be announced. Sydney tickets go on sale on Friday, July 5, with pre-sales from Monday, July 1. Head to ShrekTheMusical.com.au to join the waitlist, and for further details. Image: Helen Maybanks.
In need a domestic getaway? How about a sojourn down south to Tasmania? Jetstar is back with another sale of flights for way, way less — this time teaming up with Tourism Tasmania and connecting Aussies in six major cities to Hobart and Launceston for as little as $45 one way. The sale is already underway and set to run until 11.59pm Monday, March 16, or until sold out. Melbournians can fly to Launceston from $45 and Hobart from $66, the cost of the average dinner these days, while Sydneysiders can book seats to Launceston from $55 and to Hobart from $73, or drive to Newcastle and fly to Hobart from $61. Coming from Brisbane? Launceston flights are from $96, Hobart from $112 — or head to Gold Coast airport to fly to Hobart from $105, and Adelaide to Hobart is just $87. The discounts are eligible for flights between Tuesday, March 31 and Wednesday, December 16. [caption id="attachment_1043520" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Kunanyi (Mt Wellington), Hobart[/caption] There's more than enough to do in Tasmania during those months. In April, the Autumn Festival will see the Derwent Valley and Central Highlands transform into autumn colours and themed events, followed by TrailGrazer, a three-day festival celebrating the flavours and growers of northwest Tasmania. Late May and early June see Hobart celebrate its UNESCO-listed status as a city of literature and invite readers and writers to revel in the craft during the Island Readers and Writers Festival. Then in mid-June, Tasmania's legendary midwinter solstice festival, Dark Mofo, returns for another year of fiery, late-night hedonism to fight off the winter chill. [caption id="attachment_998155" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Dark Mofo[/caption] In August, Tasmanian Whisky Week puts the island's award-winning distillery scene into the spotlight through tours, masterclasses and peeks behind the scenes of the (literal) Tassie spirit. Then later that month, the focus shifts to science via the Beaker Street Festival and its big discussions on even bigger ideas. And if you're holding off for a springtime trip, the Wynyard Tulip Festival blooms into a family-friendly celebration for one day only in October. The Jetstar Tasmania Sale is on now until 11.59pm AEDT on Monday, March 16, or until sold out. Visit the website to book your flights. Images: supplied
Fanda Group has made a name for its eye-catching venues, from the award-winning subterranean CBD dumpling den Central to the breezy brutalism of Gold Coast rooftop bar Sueño. For these venues, the hospo outfit partnered with J.AR OFFICE — and it's tapped the Fortitude Valley studio once again for its latest showstopper. Marlowe is perhaps Fanda Group's most serious offer to date, and it stands to reason that this is in no small part down to its setting. Spread across two floors and nine rooms of a heritage-listed 1938 apartment building on Fish Lane once known as Merivale Flats, Marlowe presents a considered and elegant take on a Modern Australian bistro backed by seasonal, hyperlocal produce and inspired by vintage Australian cookbooks. [caption id="attachment_1027793" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jessie Prince[/caption] And while Head Chef and Co-Owner Ollie Hansford's menu might take its cues from Margaret Fulton and her contemporaries, there's a thoroughly modern edge to the offer. The ever-evolving selection might include prawn cocktail tartlet in crisp pastry with marie rose sauce, braised duck pie with radicchio jam and jus poured tableside, a yabby-topped surf and turf and a standout coral trout wellington finished with a rich caviar butter sauce. A custom-built woodfire hearth by Sam Fraraccio (The Brick Chef) anchors the grill offering, while a raw bar serves oysters and seafood sliced to order. Desserts, like a trifle layered with rhubarb jelly, macadamia sponge and custard, also straddle the line between playful and polished. Drinks also celebrate local makers and ingredients. Group Beverage Director Peter Marchant has curated a 200-strong Australian wine list, balancing legacy labels with new-wave producers alongside verticals from icons like Henschke and Grosset. Thirty-five wines are available by the glass via the venue's Coravin program, while French champagne is the sole non-local feature. Cocktails showcase native ingredients and nostalgic twists, like a lemon myrtle and eucalyptus highball topped with house-made mandarin creaming soda and a house martini starring Tasmanian gin and macadamia-infused oloroso. As for that design, Marlowe retains much of the building's art deco character, including the original layout of the four apartments it occupies. Nooks and crannies abound across the nine distinct dining and bar areas, including a verdant terrace and four enclosed sunrooms. The deliberately pared-back space sets rich walnut timber and polished chrome accents against a palette of sky blue, buttercream and deep crimson, bringing a thoughtful contemporary edge to the venue's heritage bones. [caption id="attachment_1027797" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jessie Prince[/caption] Top images: Jessie Prince.
What did a negroni taste like in the 70s? That's one of the questions that Stan's, the new lounge bar at Howard Smith Wharves, now answers. Here's another: does Cantonese restaurant Stanley need a Hong Kong-inspired watering hole that combines XO sand crab cigars, lobster and truffle dumplings, design-your-own martinis, DJ-spun tunes and a late-night dance floor, all on its second level? The answer to the latter is a hearty yes. A night out at at one of Brisbane's top eateries now doesn't have to start or end with dinner. An evening at Stanley can expand beyond your meal without leaving the premises, in fact. While there's no change to the restaurant's operations downstairs in its heritage-listed 1930s-era former water police building by the river, the upstairs space has relaunched — which is where Stan's comes in. As a result, one of the city's best places to eat is now one of Brissie's must-visit places for a drink as well. Stanley announced its new addition early in September 2024, then opened its doors in October. So, when you're not tucking into a feast of dishes on the ground level — including yum cha daily for lunch — you'll want to head up a floor for beverages over snacks in a newly transformed part of the site. At Stan's, the vibe and the decor take inspiration from Hong Kong — and the idea is to mix old-world touches with modern flourishes as well. Think: jewel-hued furnishings and decor, such as rich red seating and velvet curtains in emerald tones; dark and moody lighting; antique mirrored wall panels, including the back bar; timber aplenty as accents; hand-painted mural walls across the private lounge; and aged brass cocktail tables to sit at. This is also a place to make shapes or simply enjoy the DJ's music picks, thanks to a vintage JBL sound system. The promise for the tunes: extensive and eclectic. The bar has folks on the decks most evenings, and is also hosting album listening sessions in the middle of the week. Turning the space into a late-night dance floor is encouraged. Naturally, cocktails feature prominently on the beverage list — and the approach here is classic-meets-new, too. Martinis and daiquiris are highlights, with the signature martini menu letting patrons pic their gins or vodkas, bitters and extracts to taste. If you're just after spirits and you have some cash to splash, a collection of vintage tipples from around the world, some dating from as far back as the 60s, is also a drawcard. You'll find the range of rare drops on display in a custom-built cabinet, and those 70s-style concoctions as well. Stanley Executive Chef Louis Tikaram isn't just focusing on the main restaurant downstairs now that Stan's is up and running. He's whipped up a new range of Cantonese bites just for the upper floor, designed to match the beverages. Options span steamed lobster and truffle dumplings, rolled peking duck pancakes, rock lobster buns, painted tropical crayfish, fried prawn toast and more, ensuring the venue's luxe vibes come through in its food offering. Find Stan's on level two at Stanley, Howard Smith Wharves, 5 Boundary Street, Brisbane — open Monday–Thursday 3pm–1am and Friday–Sunday 12pm–1am. Head to the venue's website for more details.
Much has changed at Portside Wharf over its almost two-decade existence to date, but Byblós Brisbane has remained a constant. One of the River City's go-tos for Lebanese cuisine has been a mainstay of the waterside Hamilton precinct, whether you're keen on a meal or drinks. When it opened in 2006, it was also the first-ever eatery from brothers Adonis and Nehme Ghanem, the pair behind hospitality outfit — and the Bisou Bisou-, Iris Rooftop-, Blackbird Bar, Dining and Events-, Boom Boom Room-, Donna Chang- and Lúc Lắc-running — Ghanem Group. As new venues make their home at Portside, Byblós remains in place, but it's now sporting a revamped aesthetic and refreshed menu. Eighteen years after it first launched its Hamilton digs, the restaurant has undergone a renovation, and has been back up and running since spring 2024 in its new redesigned guise.. Indoors, expect an open dining and bar area, complete with dining booths and private nooks. If you're keen to eat and drink outside, you can now step through bi-fold glass sliding doors to the plant-filled waterside al fresco space, which has also been expanded and weather-proofed. Space Cubed Design Studio was on design duties, aiming to nod to Lebanese cuisine's past and present, including by incorporating tiles handcrafted in the venue's namesake city. Food-wise, patrons can tuck into a sharing-friendly menu influenced by a 2023 research trip to Lebanon, plus a new drinks range featuring cocktails such as Lebanese Lemonade (vodka, a whole lemon, mint, arak and maraschino) and Phoenician Sunset (Licor 43, strawberry liqueur, apple and strawberry), a hefty array of spirits and a wine cellar filled with drops from around the world. New highlights span salmon kibbeh nayeh (which is made with raw salmon, burghal, cucumber, fresh mint, red onion and fresh saj) and eggplant fatteh (fried eggplant, cow's milk yogurt, fresh mint and toasted flatbread) among the small plates. Yes, the fan-favourite rakakat, aka fried filo pastries stuffed with mozzarella, feta, parsley and onion, remains on offer. For something more substantial, the wagyu skewers feature pomegranate, pickled red onion, wild thyme and chimichurri; the Brisbane Valley quail comes with orange blossom honey, sumac and parsley, as well as pine nuts and currants; and the slow-cooked lamb shoulder is paired with mixed nuts, currants and jus. Baklava cheesecake and Turkish delight pavlova are dessert standouts — and if you can't pick what to eat, that's where the banquet menu comes in.
Each year, an Adelaide beach is taken over by the Nude Games — which is exactly what it sounds like. Maslin Beach was declared Australia's first nudist beach back in 1974, and now the locals embrace this history with a day full of naked fun, hosted by nearby nudist community Pilwarren. Expect three-legged, potato sack and baton races, frisbee and raw egg throwing, doughnut eating competitions and even best bum contests. Soft drinks, bottled water, a sausage sizzle and souvenir stubby holders will be available, with proceeds going back into running the games. While participants are required to come dressed in their birthday suits, spectators are also encouraged to come as nature intended. If heading out in public without a stitch of clothing on sounds like a nightmare, never fear — nakedness is not mandatory, and everyone is invited to enjoy the day at the beach however they feel comfortable.
In his three decades so far behind the camera, every film that Wes Anderson has made, features and shorts alike, has boasted one of two people behind their ideas. Number one: himself, with the writer/director sometimes teaming up with Owen Wilson (Haunted Mansion), Noah Baumbach (White Noise), Jason Schwartzman (Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse) and/or Roman Coppola (Mozart in the Jungle) to pen his screenplays. Number two: Roald Dahl, the author responsible for a bookshelf full of childhood classics that've engaged and entertained generations. With the latter, first came Anderson's magnificent stop-motion Fantastic Mr Fox adaptation, which is lively, smart and funny as well as gloriously animated. Now arrives four new Netflix shorts based on various parts of Dahl's lengthy bibliography. Wondering how Anderson would fare with The Witches, Matilda or Charlie and the Chocolate Factory — each of which have reached screens multiple times, including a recent The Witches remake, the film version of Matilda The Musical and upcoming origin story Wonka — remains confined to the world's imaginations at the moment. Instead, the symmetry-loving filmmaker and Dahl still prove a dream match with The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, The Swan, The Rat Catcher and Poison. Dropping daily since Wednesday, September 27, the entire group is now available to stream. Watch all four at once and you've got a new Anderson-directed, Dahl-inspired feature-length anthology, plus pure, quintessential, gorgeous and thoughtful Anderson gold. Visually, the Rushmore, Moonrise Kingdom and Isle of Dogs filmmaker busts out his jewel and pastel palette, elaborate dollhouse visuals, moving sets, centred framing and distinctive dialogue rhythms in his latest works, each trademark stylistic touch a reliably dazzling treat in his hands. Talent-wise, he enlists a core sextet of well-known stars — Benedict Cumberbatch (Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness), Dev Patel (The Green Knight), Ben Kingsley (Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings), Ralph Fiennes (The Menu), Richard Ayoade (The Souvenir: Part II) and Rupert Friend (High Desert) — who deliver pitch-perfect Anderson-esque performances cycling through a range of roles while uttering deadpan to-camera dialogue. Thematically, Anderson starts the shorts series with belief and hope, then keeps skewing darker. His fixation with meticulously delightful sights has always been paired with bleaker notions, as seen from Bottle Rocket onwards; here, he swings between humanity at its best and its worst. Also present: more stories within stories within stories (within stories), as Anderson has long loved stacking and unpacking, frequently with writers taking centre stage. Fresh from stepping into a play as a live production in a TV show in Asteroid City and also flicking through a magazine's articles in The French Dispatch, the filmmaker now gets an author sharing his scribblings. Dahl isn't just the origin of the four stories adapted. Fiennes, who reunites with the writer/director after turning in one of the finest-ever performances in his films in The Grand Budapest Hotel, plays Dahl in one of his current parts for Anderson. That move enthusiastically makes the helmer's fondness for layers known structurally, standing out as much as the faux sets that he deploys visually — and as Dahl pops up to narrate and explain from his Buckinghamshire writing hut, it's also a choice with meaning. The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar begins the set with its longest and lightest entry, the source of some of Anderson's best and most purposeful visual playfulness yet, and a 39-minute flick that shares an account of personal and spiritual growth. So, as the author's 1977 tale comes to the screen, the movie's version of Dahl chats. Henry Sugar (Cumberbatch) does as well. Dr Chatterjee (Patel) and his patient Imdad Khan (Kingsley) also have a natter. Their stories reveal that Khan has learned to see without his eyes, Chatterjee couldn't be more fascinated about this medical marvel and, after learning about it accidentally, Sugar is desperate and determined to learn the trick for himself. Initially, the eponymous figure is solely in it to help his gambling and get even richer than he already is; however, there's only soullessness and emptiness on that path, but tenderness with another choice. The next in the batch, the 17-minute The Swan, pushes Friend to the fore. It also sharply changes Anderson's tone. In this short, bullies terrorise a classmate and wildlife in tandem, in a musing on cruelty that's still stunning to look at. With The Rat Catcher, which also clocks in at 17 minutes, the short's namesake (Fiennes) is enlisted by a village (represented by Ayoade and Friend) to live up to his name, a feat he's certain that he only achieve by being as rat-like as possible. Then, in the similarly 17-minute Poison, Cumberbatch, Patel and Kingsley work through almost the opposite of The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, with an Englishman in British-occupied India (Cumberbatch) given kindness by a colleague (Patel) and local doctor (Kingsley) in a life-and-death situation, but hardly repaying it. The cast that brings The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, The Swan, The Rat Catcher and Poison to life is as divine on-screen as it sounds on paper, especially Cumberbatch and Patel in The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, plus Patel and Kingsley in Poison. Anderson's way with aesthetics may hog the limelight whenever his name comes up — that, and the wealth of talent that he amasses in each of his films — but his ability with actors is one of his greatest skills. There isn't merely a knack to performing in the filmmaker's work; he gets his stars epitomising his specific style while showcasing their own flair, too. Watching The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, no one would ever want Anderson's latest ensemble to leave his sight, in fact, or to stop telling stories for him. Only one quibble springs from this four-short project: the decision to release each chapter separately, rather than packaging them together as an anthology feature. Of course, streaming makes that choice moot now that The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, The Swan, The Rat Catcher and Poison are all freely available in Netflix's catalogue. There's a cumulative power to this set of films. Anderson sees the ups and downs of human nature as he works through Dahl's four stories. As Fiennes' Dahl talks in and around their narratives, Anderson also spies it in an author who is both beloved for his creations and decried for his discriminatory opinions. It's there in the explanatory text on-screen noting what inspired The Swan, The Rat Catcher and Poison as well. Spectacular to look at, exceptionally performed, and packing an emotional and thematic punch, these shorts are vintage Anderson through and through. Check out the trailer for The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar below: The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, The Swan, The Rat Catcher and Poison are all available to stream via Netflix. Images: courtesy of Netflix.
Endings have always been a part of Succession. Since it premiered in 2018, the bulk of the HBO drama's feuding figures have been waiting for a big farewell. The reason is right there in the title, because for any of the Roy clan's adult children to scale the family company's greatest heights and remain there — be it initial heir apparent Kendall (Jeremy Strong, Armageddon Time), his inappropriate photo-sending brother Roman (Kieran Culkin, No Sudden Move), their political-fixer sister Siobhan (Sarah Snook, Pieces of a Woman), or eldest sibling and now-presidential candidate Connor (Alan Ruck, The Dropout) — their father Logan's (Brian Cox, Remember Me) tenure must wrap up. He's stubborn, though. He's proud, too, of what he's achieved and the power it's brought. Whenever Logan has seemed nearly ready to leave the business behind, he's held on. And if he's challenged or threatened, as three seasons of the Emmy-winning series have done again and again, he shows no signs of ever letting go. Succession has always been waiting for Logan's last stint at global media outfit Waystar RoyCo, but it's never been about finales quite the way it is in its fourth season, which starts streaming from Monday, March 27 Down Under (including via Foxtel, Binge and Foxtel On Demand in Australia, and on Neon in New Zealand). This time, there's a ticking clock not just for the show's characters, but for the stellar series itself. In late February, in an interview with The New Yorker a month out from season four's premiere, Succession's creator and showrunner Jesse Armstrong advised that this is its last go-around. Nothing can last forever, not even widely acclaimed hit shows that are a rarity in today's TV climate: genuine appointment-viewing. So, this one is going out at the height of its greatness — yes, its final batch of episodes begins out that strongly — which is how Logan should've always wanted to as well. That Succession won't be tearing into its ultra-rich squabblers again after these ten episodes casts a shadow over the new season, unsurprisingly. That said, given that it commences with the Roys as fractured as ever in the aftermath of 2021's season three — with Kendall, Roma and Shiv all estranged from and actively working against their dad, who has badged them "rats" with his usual venom — there's a higher sense of tension, greater stakes and a firmer feeling of finality anyway. This bickering brood has split, backstabbed, betrayed, undermined and reunited many times before. They've overcome health scares, accidental killings, high-strung weddings, legal troubles, hostile attempted takeovers, dark scandals, political scrutiny and more. Armstrong and his writing team could've kept the cycle going, but there's an unshakeable sense of hurt to this round of tussles that feels like the last the Roys can endure. In season three, Waystar went from trying to buy streaming service GoJo to entertaining a buyout from it — and from its tech visionary Lukas Matsson (Alexander Skarsgård, The Northman) — instead. And, as Kendall, Roman and Shiv kept trying to lock in their futures, Logan found a way to cut them out that couldn't have cut deeper. Accordingly, when season four kicks off with Logan's birthday just as season one did, a party that he's characteristically miserable at, only Connor shows up among his kids. The other three are busy trying to secure financing for The Hundred, the new media venture they're pitching as "Substack meets Masterclass meets The Economist meets The New Yorker". What they really want to do, of course, is stick it to their old man above all else. Money, which the Roys have much more of than most, aren't afraid to splash about and are always chasing, sure can't buy a reprieve from good old-fashioned pettiness. That's always been a glaring truth at the heart of the series, just like its fantasy equivalent Game of Thrones, because boasting immense control and hefty fortunes can't make anyone a decent person. No one watches this takedown of unfettered power, wealth and entitlement for hugs and smiles, but for Shakespearean dramedy and tragedy that rips brutally and ravenously into the one-percent. However it concludes and whoever thinks they've won — make no mistake, Succession is always a battle — no one is likely to be living happily ever after, or even managing to be content enough with where things wind up. Still, Roman will probably be smirking, Shiv shooting a steely glare and Kendall wearing the intense gaze that never wholly masks his inner sadness. They all sport exactly those expressions to begin season four, all while building their plans to simultaneously cement their next step and topple Logan. As sycophantic grins beam noxiously around his birthday, he's as caustic as ever even in just his eyes — more so with Shiv's husband Tom Wambsgans (Matthew Macfadyen, Operation Mincemeat) playing middleman in a crucial deal, and when cousin Greg's (Nicholas Braun, Zola) love life taints the festivities. Yes, the more that things change in Succession, the more that they stay the same, including with general counsel Gerri (J Smith-Cameron, Fleishman Is in Trouble), CFO Karl (David Rasche, Swallow) and vice-chair Frank (Peter Friedman, She Said) hovering around while looking like they'd rather be anywhere else. Family malaise is a dime a dozen on TV, and workplace struggles as well. Succession is so sharp and scathing — so devastatingly well-cast and delicious with its incisive insults, too — that it's in a stratosphere of its own. With this compelling ensemble and the cracking dialogue they're gifted, the show's directors could just point cameras at the former in glass-walled rooms as they spout the latter and the series would gleam from every angle. That isn't how the handsomely staged and executed effort fills its episodes, but both its actors and writers remain at the top of their games. Indeed, watching Succession in such savage vintage form in everything from Strong's concentration to Culkin's way with witty slights, plus Braun's cluelessness and episode-one helmer Mark Mylod's (The Menu) tonal mastery, viewers will never want it to end. There'll be much to miss when the show severs its final ties at the end of May, glorious episode titles included (the fourth season's opener is aptly called 'The Munsters'). It's going out how it's always gone on, though — without losing its bite, or its taste for blisteringly dark, pointed and funny family-feud chaos. Logan is pondering farewells again, too. Succession hasn't lost its ability to astonish, and its fearsome white-haired patriarch waxing lyrical about whether death is just an abyss over a diner dinner with his chief security guard is one such delight. There'll certainly be a chasm left in the show's wake but, like its most formidable figure won't stop doing, audiences will just have to make the most of it while it's here. Check out the full trailer for Succession season four below: Succession season four starts streaming from Monday, March 27 Down Under, including via Foxtel, Binge and Foxtel On Demand in Australia and Neon in New Zealand. Check out our review of season three. Images: Claudette Barius, Macall B Polay / HBO.
Valentine's Day has a way of sneaking up on us. Held just as the year gets going (hello, back to school), it's easy for plans to turn into a last-minute scramble. If you have kids, this feeling triples. Valentine's Day often brings a babysitter cancellation, a late meeting, daycare germs, or a sudden realisation that leaving the house together isn't happening. But staying in on the most romantic night of the year doesn't have to mean settling for baked beans on toast. With the right moves, a date night at home might even be the most romantic plan of all. Let Someone Else Handle Dinner Fewer takeaways may have been one of your New Year's resolutions, but a last-minute Valentine's Day date is a good excuse. Ordering food from your favourite restaurant via a delivery app like DoorDash means no cooking, no washing up, and a real 'treat yourself' moment. With the weight of "What's for dinner?" taken off your shoulders, your date night at home is off to a great start. Focus On Atmosphere, Not Grand Gestures Not everyone needs grand romantic gestures — especially not exhausted parents who are just trying to get through the day. Your at-home date night doesn't need a full set re-design, but rather, a few signals that the night is more special than the average. Get rid of daily clutter and set the table properly (maybe even with the fancy crockery), dim the lights, light a candle or two and swap the TV background for music. These small details can help elevate your night from just another evening into a romantic date night. If you realise that something is missing from your evening, whether that be a bottle of wine, flowers or their favourite chocolate, DoorDash also offers fast and reliable delivery for any last-minute needs. Use The Flexibility To Your Advantage Staying in means there's no schedule to adhere to: no restaurant reservations, concert start times, or babysitter curfews. You can eat earlier, later, or in stages if your kids are little. This flexibility can sometimes be a relief for parents managing it all. Once the house is quiet, spend the evening however you please, whether that be with a board game you've been meaning to get to, a movie on the couch, or just staying up chatting without distraction. Keep Expectations Realistic As with New Year's Eve, the pressure around Valentine's Day often stems from trying to make it exceptional. But by staying in and making the night your own (last-minute or otherwise), you can take the pressure off the evening and just enjoy each other's company. Because, as many parents know, sometimes having no plans can be the best plan of all. Head to DoorDash to see what restaurants are available in your area this Valentine's Day. Image Credit: Supplied and Getty Image
If you had to pack up and run for your life, what would you grab? Clothes? Food? Phone charger? Australians and New Zealanders are in one heck of a lucky situation, we haven't had to throw essentials in a bag and flee because of war, genocide or unbridled violence. But nearly 100,000 people from the Middle East, South Asia and North Africa have had to do just that — this year alone. Refugees don't have the luxury of packing ten Louis Vuitton suitcases of unnecessary crap for their travels. They travel light, for the road is incredibly dangerous. It's only necessities that refugees throw into their bags before getting the hell out of their home country: medication, little food, phones, maybe a toothbrush. To get an insight into exactly what refugees are travelling with, the International Rescue Committee and photographer Tyler Jump asked an artist, a mother, a family, a child, a teenager and a pharmacist, who are all refugees from war-torn areas like Syria and Afghanistan, to show us what they'd managed to bring with them on their journey — what they'll need on the road to a (hopefully) more peaceful future. All images and quotes were originally published by Medium. A FAMILY OF 31 From Aleppo, Syria “I hope we die. This life is not worth to live anymore. Everyone closed the door in our face, there is no future.” 1 shirt 1 pair of jeans 1 pair of shoes Toiletries 1 diaper, 2 small cartons of milk and some biscuits Personal documents and money Sanitary pads A comb A TEENAGER Iqbal, 17, from Kunduz, Afghanistan “I want my skin to be white and hair to be spiked — I don’t want them to know I’m a refugee. I think that someone will spot me and call the police because I’m illegal.” 1 pair of pants, 1 shirt, 1 pair of shoes and 1 pair of socks Shampoo and hair gel, toothbrush and toothpaste, face whitening cream Comb, nail clipper Bandages 100 U.S. dollars 130 Turkish liras Smartphone and back-up cell phone SIM cards for Afghanistan, Iran and Turkey AN ARTIST Nour, 20, from Syria “I left Syria with two bags, but the smugglers told me I could only take one. The other bag had all of my clothes. This is all I have left.” Small bag of personal documents A rosary (gift from his friend; Nour doesn’t let it touch the floor) A watch (from his girlfriend; it broke during the journey) Syrian flag, Palestinian charm, silver and wooden bracelets (gifts from friends) Guitar picks (one also a gift from a friend) Cell phone and Syrian SIM card Photo ID 1 shirt A MOTHER Aboessa, 20, from Damascus, Syria “Everything is for my daughter to protect her against sickness. When we arrived in Greece, a kind man gave me two jars of food. Another man gave us biscuits and water when he saw my baby.” Hat for the baby An assortment of medication, a bottle of sterile water, and a jar of baby food A small supply of napkins for diaper changes A hat and a pair of socks for the baby Assortment of pain relievers, sunscreen and sunburn ointment, toothpaste Personal documents (including the baby’s vaccination history) Wallet (with photo ID and money) Cell phone charger Yellow headband A BOY Omran, 6, from Damascus, Syria 1 pair of pants, 1 shirt A syringe for emergencies Marshmallows and sweet cream (Omran’s favorite snacks) Soap, toothbrush and toothpaste Bandages A PHARMACIST Anonymous, 34, from Syria “I had to leave behind my parents and sister in Turkey. I thought, if I die on this boat, at least I will die with the photos of my family near me.” Money (wrapped to protect it from water) Old phone (wet and unusable) and new smart phone Phone chargers and headphones (plus extra battery charger) 16GB flash drive (containing family photos) Via Medium. Images: Tyler Jump/International Rescue Committee.
There's a sensation that sweeps over you when you enter one of the best spas in Brisbane, or near enough to head to on a day trip. It feels strange at first — probably because it's not something that you treat yourself to that often. Your phone is out of reach, your body is encased in a soft robe, calming scents waft through your nostrils and the loudest sound you'll hear is your own content exhalations. It's called relaxation. Thankfully, there are plenty of day spa and bathhouse experiences in and around Brisbane for indulgent stints of tranquillity — you just need to know where to look. Whatever your budget, skin type or preferred massage style, there's a place just waiting to wash all your stresses away. Don't wait until someone buys you a gift voucher or leave it for your next holiday; pamper yourself whenever you want and for whatever reason. Recommended reads: The Best Hotels in Brisbane The Best Glamping Sites in Australia The Best Hot Pools in Australia The Best Outdoor Swimming Pools in Brisbane The Bathhouse Albion, Albion Relaxing usually means avoiding difficult decisions. Before you ignore the world outside at The Bathhouse Albion, however, you do need to make some choices. Will a soak help ease your stresses? Would a cold plunge revitalise your senses? Maybe you'd prefer to float away your troubles? Is getting steamy — in a steam room, that is — your path to unwinding? Would you prefer a sauna instead? These are the best types of verdicts to make, of course, because you're plotting out how to level up your self-care. A European-inspired wellness haven, The Bathhouse Albion is located on Nariel Street as part the Albion Fine Trades precinct. Welcoming in patrons since June 2024, the vibe here is indulgent, opulent and luxurious. Contro Wellness, Lutwyche Tranquility and Lutwyche now go hand in hand. So do pastels and Lutwyche; Mediterranean-style bathhouses and Lutwyche; and escaping life's chaos in saunas, steam rooms and ice baths in Lutwyche. The reason: Contro Wellness. When it opened in autumn 2024, the venue instantly joined the River City's best places to relax, slow down and put your wellbeing first. With its soft and calming hues, Contro Wellness has gone dreamy with its bathhouse setup. Patrons will find both traditional and infrared saunas, float therapy, mineral soaks, red-light therapy and salt therapy inside, too. Also, if you're keen on not just relaxation, but some alone time — or sharing your experience with a date or mate — all services are private. Soak Bathhouse, West End Spring dips, summers on the sundeck, getting steamy no matter the weather and staring out over the city from a West End rooftop: since bathhouse chain Soak made its way to Brisbane in 2022, these have all become a reality. You'll find the Gold Coast-born company's first site further north in a sky-high perch in West Village, complete with seven spas and mineral pools, plus infrared saunas, steam rooms and relaxation gardens. Yes, dips, steams, massages and LED facials with a sweeping vista await. Soak's pools are meant to be shared, so you can book in for a plunge with your mates and use the occasion to treat yo'selves over a catch up. A big part of the vibe at the bathhouse is about being social, hence the communal facilities, capitalising upon a largely untapped niche: turning wellness sessions into excuses to gather the gang. Lost World Day Spa at O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat, Lamington National Park A Queensland day spa that shares its name with the sequel to Jurassic Park? Sign us up immediately. There are no dinosaurs stampeding across your back at O'Reilly's Lost World Day Spa, but what you'll get instead is a gorgeous, greenery-filled outlook over Lamington National Park, the McPherson Ranges and the Great Dividing Range — oh, and an infinity pool, steam room and couple's treatment suite, that includes a hand-crafted wooden tub and a private nature-inspired shower. It's easily one of the best day spas near Brisbane. Treatment-wise, splashing out on a three-hour vinotherapy ritual is certainly tempting. There's no drinking at this day spa experience, sadly, but it does include soaking in blends made from grapes. The Healing Stone Day Spa at Emporium, South Bank Drinking, swimming, getting a massage — they're all better when you're 21 storeys up. That's where you'll find Emporium South Bank's day spa, The Healing Stone. And yes, it's on the same level as the towering venue's sky-high bar The Terrace, if you're keen on a super-indulgent visit. Here, you can choose from your preferred type of massage (shiatsu, deep-tissue, remedial and signature bamboo) for 90 minutes, or opt for an hour-long hot rock ganbanyoku treatment. For an extra $80, you also get a two-hour access pass to the infinity pool, hotel sauna and bar, which is an easy way to make a proper day of it. Kailo Wellness Medispa at The Calile, Fortitude Valley With resort-style cabanas and poolside dining, The Calile is a great place to sit back, relax and forget that you're smack-bang in the middle of Fortitude Valley's James Street. It's also been named Australasia's best hotel not once but twice. Of course, if you want to complete the faux-holiday experience, you'll need to make a beeline to Kailo Wellness Medispa — one of the best spas in Brisbane within one of the best hotels in Brisbane. Here, wraps, massages, exfoliation, facials, manicures, pedicures, soaks and cosmetic procedures are all on the menu. Just stopping by for a short visit rather than checking in for a staycation? An express facial, which takes 30 minutes, will leave your face looking fresh, hydrated and smelling like cold-pressed plant oils. You can also get IV nutrient therapy, laser treatments, facials and a whole host of beauty pampering experiences. Away Spa at W Brisbane, Brisbane CBD When W Brisbane opened back in mid-2018, Brisbanites were instantly taken by its epic façade and impressive geometric pool — and wanted to book a night there straight away. Even if you don't want to shell out for a night at the riverside hotel, however, you can check into its luxury Away Spa for an hour or two. Located on a quiet spot on level five, the Brisbane spa has six treatment suites, relaxation pods, a sauna, steam room, a pool and a bar. The most-luxe spa packages clock will fill three hours with bliss, either getting you detoxing or glowing. The first includes a wrap, massage and facial; the second swaps the wrap for a mask, plus a polish for your hands, arms and feet. Stephanie's Vintage Spa, Cleveland An award-wining Brisbane spa located in the waterside suburb of Cleveland, Stephanie's Vintage Spa features eight treatment rooms across two very quaint Queenslanders. You can duck into the infrared sauna, get your nails done in the pedicure lounge or have a quick 40-minute facial. Fancy a longer stay, but not quite sure what you're after? Try the 90-minute aromatic revival ritual, which includes a massage, full body exfoliation and botanical foot immersion. Plus, if you can't get out to the bay, Stephanie's also has locations in Bulimba, the CBD, Noosa, Surfers Paradise and Clear Mountain. Aquarius Health & Medispa, CBD Get a massage, treat your skin and soak in an Asian-style onsen at the super-luxe Aquarius Health & Medispa. The Brisbane spa is located on Mary Street in the CBD, and we're not knocking all of the usual bits and pieces when we say that it's the latter that's worth the trip. The Brisbane bathhouse comes complete with a temperature-controlled 22-metre indoor pool, male and female steam rooms, hot and cold plunge pools, and a dry Finnish sauna. Casual daily entry is available, or you can sign up for ten-entry passes and 12-month access to make it your regular home away from home. Spa by JW at JW Marriott Gold Coast, Surfers Paradise Sun, surf and sand is a relaxing combination, as well as one of the Gold Coast's big drawcards. Soaking, steaming, sipping and staring at scenic views? That's also on the agenda if you're looking for a different kind of stint in Surfers Paradise. One such spot to put on your intinerary: JW Marriott Gold Coast's Spa by JW. This hefty 2500-square-metre wellness space joined the hotel in 2023 as part of its broader $35-million transformation. A spell here means enjoying the sounds of the ocean, a vantage over the hinterland, both tea and wine service, and a sizeable list of treatment options and spa packages. Fancy a massage solely designed to help you sleep? An aromatherapy facial? Hopping in the bath with your date or best mate? They're all on offer. Spa Q at QT Hotel Gold Coast, Surfers Paradise Sometimes, you just want to pair your indulgence with a trip somewhere beachy, whether or not you're heading away for a night or several. Here's another option. Just a stone's throw away from the surf and sand in Surfers Paradise, QT Gold Coast's Spa Q will have you unwinding in no time, including in its steam room. Social spa-ing — aka group bookings — is one of its specialities, so gather up at least two of your mates and head on down. Then you'll just have to choose between a massage and a facial, both, or the two plus a foot treatment. Top image: The Bathhouse Albion.
Brisbane is already home to two mini-golf bars, multiple arcade bars, several axe-throwing bars and a digital ping pong bar — and it also boasts a huge two-storey darts hangout, too. Usually the domain of old-school pubs, the projectile-flinging sport is the main attraction at Oche Brisbane, though it's had a thoroughly 21st-century update. Originally launching in Oslo in Norway, Oche (pronounced ockey) has opened its first Australian digs in Fortitude Valley. Lining the walls are dart boards that look exactly how you remember — but they all have an electronic component. Each board comes with dozens of games built in, so you can pick between the knockout-style Killer, high-scoring High Striker and points-accumulating 201, among other options. The boards also keep score, so there's no need for a pencil and paper (and no room for arguments). And, for unknown reasons, some of them chat to you as well. Located within the brick walls of the 115-year-old Old Flour Mill Building on Constance Street, Oche's darts sessions run for 85 minutes, and are designed to get patrons to do something that's definitely not common these days: put down your phone. The idea is that you'll head along with your mates, get drinking, throw a heap of darts, and forget about your emails, Insta feed, DMs and the like. (You'll probably keep picking up your phone to take and post snaps, but hey, getting folks to switch off is a noble aim). Inside the 700-square-metre, heritage-listed spot, Oche also features an outdoor terrace and two separate bars — so you can sip your way through mocktails, cocktails, beer on tap and spritzes. Food-wise, you'll find pizza, tostadas, burgers, grazing boards, popcorn chicken, and cheese and chive croquettes. So you can hurl darts and eat simultaneously, plenty of dishes are designed to be eaten with one hand. Expect to have plenty of company while you're throwing darts at boards for bragging rights — Oche can accommodate 360 people. Updated August 25, 2021.
Sometimes in The Whitsundays, sometimes outside the Sydney Opera House, sometimes in the rooftop carpark of a Melbourne Woolworths, thousands of people have disrobed for Spencer Tunick. The New York-based artist stages naked installations in public places that also become nude photography works. He's filled Bondi beach, Federation Square, Munich's Bavarian State Opera, a patch of the Nevada desert and many more places with folks sans clothes, too — and, in both 2023 and 2024, he's turned his attention to Brisbane as well. Tunick first hit the Sunshine State last November for a piece called TIDE by the Brisbane River, which formed part of 2023's queer arts and culture-focused Melt Festival. On a spring Saturday, more than 100 participants shed their attire for the camera by the water. Before that installation even took place, it was revealed that he'd back in 2024 for an installation now called RISING TIDE. It too is part of the same fest, and it also involves another Brisbane landmark: the Story Bridge. [caption id="attachment_973212" align="alignnone" width="1920"] TIDE, Spencer Tunick[/caption] On Sunday, October 27, 2024, the famous river crossing will welcome thousands of naked volunteers. Accordingly, it isn't just traffic that will bring the structure to a standstill this spring. For the shoot, the stretch across the water is closing to cars. If you're keen to get your kit off for the camera — and be part of history — there's no limit to the number of people who can take part. RISING TIDE is just one way to engage with Tunick's art in Brisbane this year, however. The other: the just-announced TIDE Exhibition, featuring images from his debut in the River City. It'll display at Brisbane Powerhouse from Saturday, September 28–Sunday, November 10, also falling into Melt, featuring projected video from the installation. [caption id="attachment_970675" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brisbane, Spencer Tunick[/caption] The TIDE Exhibition marks a few firsts for Tunick as he celebrates 30 years of making his style of art, over which period he's staged more than 100 installations. This is his first-ever Australian exhibition, and it's the first time that his work will be on display for the public. The single-channel video at the heart of the TIDE Exhibition not only includes imagery from the shoot by the Brisbane River, but also stories from participants. "Creating TIDE was a very special experience, and I hope the exhibition will speak to diverse groups of people. It is a privilege to be making art that centres around the LGBTQIA+ community with all its beauty and vibrance," advised Tunick. When RISING TIDE was announced, the artist said that "the series will hopefully speak to diverse groups of people, and everyone navigating their way through the difficult challenges of our current world". "This challenging work on the Story Bridge marks the second in my two-part series in Brisbane scheduled one year apart, in 2023 then 2024. It is the first time I have ever worked on installations with the same institution for an extended two-year project. This will allow me to deeply explore the city, its light, environment and its people." [caption id="attachment_973211" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sydney, Spencer Tunick[/caption] [caption id="attachment_973210" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Barcelona, Spencer Tunick[/caption] [caption id="attachment_926439" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Gateshead, Newcastle, England by Spencer Tunick.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_874950" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Dublin, Spencer Tunick[/caption] [caption id="attachment_926442" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jay Cull[/caption] Spencer Tunick's TIDE exhibition displays from Saturday, September 28–Sunday, November 10 at Brisbane Powerhouse, 119 Lamington Street, New Farm. Spencer Tunick's 2024 Story Bridge installation RISING TIDE takes place on Sunday, October 27, 2024 during Melt Festival. Head to the festival website to register to take part. Top image: Spencer Tunick.
If you're going to open an arcade bar that nods to all things circus and sideshows in Brisbane — and gives away prizes — then Bowen Hills is the obvious place for it. That's where Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq now calls home, although that wasn't always the case. The venue has made the move to King Street from Toombul, where it launched back in 2019, then had to close due to the 2022 floods (the precinct is now officially being torn down). Fun and games in a suburb known for the Ekka, but all throughout the year? That's what's on offer at Archie Brothers' 340-person space in Bowen Hills — aka arcade antics, drinks, bowling and more. The games span everything from Mario Kart to Dance Dance Revolution, the sips are of the OTT variety, and a six-lane ten-pin alley and karaoke rooms are also onsite. Archie Brothers Bowen Hills also features Hungry Hungry Hippos, Connect 4 Hoops, The QUBE virtual reality experiences and party rooms. Need more? Air hockey, basketball hoops and VR are all included, too, in a place that definitely doesn't want you to get bored. On the drinks list: alcoholic concoctions like the Pop Till you Drop (made with fireball, butterscotch, apple juice, maple popcorn, bitters and whipped cream) and the Candy Stand (a strawberry shake featuring white rum, Frangelico, a vanilla candy frosted rim and a giant lollipop, plus whipped cream and sprinkles). Archie Bros' food menu focuses on over-the-top novelty American diner grub, fitting right in with the circus decor. So, expect to tuck into dishes such as three-meat burgers, giant pretzels, and potato gems with garlic aioli that's served in a syringe. The kidulting venture is just one of many for Funlab, which also boasts boozy mini-golf chain Holey Moley, Strike Bowling, the also games-related B. Lucky & Sons and challenge-room venue Hijinx Hotel in its stable — and opened a new Holey Moley and Hijnx Hotel in Chermside in 2022.
Brisbane's busy market scene loves an occasion. Mother's Day markets, winter markets, Christmas in July markets, spring markets, festive markets, Halloween markets — this city has seen them all, including in past years, and will continue to do so. Accordingly, it should come as zero surprise that Easter markets are also a thing around town, including at Redcliffe's regular excuse to get shopping by the sea. Indeed, only the Redcliffe Markets Easter Weekend Pop-Up Market will take you browsing and buying by the Redcliffe jetty. Fancy an excuse to eat sweet treats at an ace waterside location? That's on offer from 8am–2pm on Friday, April 18, 2025 and again from the same times on Sunday, April 20, 2025. Also on the bill: over 200 market stalls, live tunes, Easter bunnies (well, folks in the appropriate suits) hopping around, viewing the start of the Brisbane-to-Gladstone yacht race, and gifts and homewares to shop. And, among that heap of food stalls serving up bites to eat, plus drinks, there'll be everything from seafood and macrons to pizza and wagyu wraps — and a big focus on dessert. Yes, chocolate, chocolate and more chocolate features heavily. Entry is free, but you'll want your wallet for all that browsing and buying.
Chances are, you're well overdue for a relaxed group getaway with your besties, and it just so happens that Australia's chock full of world-class vacation spots to suit all types. And for that group escape, Byron Bay is delivering the goods, as always. In northern NSW, you'll find a healthy dose of sun, sea and subtropical rainforest awaiting your arrival. Plus, an array of waterfront villas and roomy coastal retreats ideal for a beach vacay with your besties. We've done the hard work and rounded up the best group Airbnbs you can book in Byron Bay. Pack those bags and get set for a hard-earned beach adventure. Recommended Reads: The Best Places to Go Glamping in NSW The Best Tiny Houses You Can Book Around NSW The Best Hotels in Sydney The Best Places to Stay in the Blue Mountains Elevation, Byron Bay Luxe vacation vibes abound at this newly renovated architectural stunner, complete with heated pool and spa, and enormous sun-drenched deck. From $1321 a night, sleeps eight. Paradiso Property, Byron Bay Sporting soothing whites and natural finishes, this group retreat feels instantly relaxing. There's loads of space indoors and out, plus a brand-new pool. From $750 a night, sleeps eight. Belongil on the Beach, Byron Bay Swap city life for a weekend of blissful Byron beachfront. This sprawling house boasts cheery nautical styling and a backyard right on the water's edge. From $700 a night, sleeps six. Havana Lodge, Byron Bay With its contemporary boho styling, nature-filled surrounds and dreamy meditation loft, this eclectic retreat is the ultimate antidote to fast-paced city living. From $449 a night, sleeps four. Byron Superluxe, Byron Bay Boasting loads of outdoor living, a pool and space to sleep 14, this supersized retreat is group holiday perfection. And the beach is just metres away. From $1220 a night, sleeps 14. Beaumonts House, Byron Bay Perched overlooking the sand, this spacious beach house is a true surfer's dream. Expect incredible views and plenty of room to move. From $799 a night, sleeps ten. Eternity Beach House, Byron Bay A leafy oasis just moments from Belongil Beach, this relaxed holiday retreat comes complete with luxury furnishings and state-of-the-art features. From $990 a night, sleeps six. Ayana at the Pass, Byron Bay With its tropical setting and designer interiors, this modern abode is a study in holiday luxury. Enjoy a heated spa, outdoor shower and dedicated yoga deck. From $1380 a night, sleeps eight. Old 55, Byron Bay This beautifully restored Wategos Beach treehouse makes for an inviting beach escape, with roomy open-plan living and lots of outdoor space. From $949 a night, sleeps 11. Memories at Wategos, Byron Bay Just a short six-minute walk from Wategos Beach, this fabulous modern abode is perfect for a day in the sand or lounging by its top-tier pool with your best friends. From $1190 at night, sleeps eight. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy. Images: courtesy of Airbnb.
There's never a bad time of day to visit Blockhouse Nundah. Just don't expect the cute cottage on Ryans Road to provide the same experience morning, noon and night. While breakfast, lunch and dinner are all served up every day of the week, the new venture from Angel and Oliver Markart and Jerome Dalton — the former best known as the owners of Redcliffe's Workshop Cafe, and the latter the man behind Dalton Hospitality — changes not only its menu but its vibe over the course of its opening hours. That's quite the ambitious offering for a suburban eatery, but as the glistening decor of wooden floors, a black-tiled bar and leather-padded timber stools attests, Blockhouse is certainly aiming high. First up is brunch-style "Toast & Oats", as best enjoyed in the sunny courtyard. As far as their early-in-the-day choices go, a baguette topped with a ham hock and green pea puree has to be one of the most unusual, but we're sure it tastes as delicious as it sounds. Then, when it gets dark, head inside for fine dining and a well-stocked drinks list. That means duck crackling share plates, blackened beef brisket for two to four, and Eton mess for dessert, among other tasty dishes, plus a choice of 25 types of champagne — or their signature Killer Bee espresso martini cocktail.
You get the best of both worlds with fan favourites LANEIGE and Frank Green joining forces to redefine self-care on the go. The beauty and hydration powerhouses are officially launching a one-of-a-kind innovation: a glossy 34oz Frank Green ceramic reusable bottle with a detachable lip gloss holder — complete with a full-size LANEIGE Glaze Craze Tinted Lip Serum. This limited-edition release marks the next evolution of water bottles, and is available in three shades inspired by LANEIGE's viral lip serums. Each bottle mirrors the same high-shine finish of the raved gloss. The launch also debuts Frank Green's brand-new accessory, a sleek clip-on lip gloss holder, designed to keep hydration and beauty essentials in one place. The drop caters to the rise of luxury drinkware and the craze for lip oils. "We saw the perfect opportunity to create a bespoke product that ensures our community stays hydrated and glowing all day long — inside and out," says Frank Green founder and CEO, Ben Young. The limited-edition set includes a glossy 34oz Frank Green ceramic reusable bottle paired with a matching detachable lip gloss holder, designed for both function and style. Each bottle comes with a full-size LANEIGE' Glaze Craze Tinted Lip Serum in the coordinating shade, creating a cohesive beauty-and-hydration essential that celebrates the viral lip gloss finish fans love. Launching on October 28, 2025, the collection will be available in three shades — Sugar Glaze, Peach Glaze, and Cinnamon Sugar — and will be sold exclusively through Frank Green and LANEIGE's official websites, as well as select retail partners. This is hydration with main character energy, and it's guaranteed to sell out fast. Shop the LANEIGE x Frank Green collab. Images: Supplied.
Throw a stone in Brisbane and you might just hit a venue where flinging bladed weapons is the main attraction. The River City boasts three spots for safely hurling hatchets. Lumber Punks in West End was the first to bring the concept to the Queensland capital back in 2018. Maniax's debut Brissie outpost in Newstead has also be open since 2018. Plus, the latter opened a second local site in the CBD in late 2023, agan boasting the chain's trademark viking theme, and also spanning bar and restaurant Ragnar & Sons. Clearly, you can never have too many places to throw axes at targets — responsibly, of course — as the team at Maniax patently believe. One of the big drawcards at the new Brisbane location, which sits in an Adelaide Street basement: the full bar and a restaurant. Ragnar & Sons takes its cues from all things vikings, as the venue around it does, and pours appropriately themed cocktails in drinking horns. As for the food, punters can tuck into house-made pizzas, burgers, and also vegan and vegetarian options. The brisket and pulled pork burgs come highly recommended, while the snack range features chips and chocolates if you're not having a meal. The Ragnar and Sons bar concept debuted on the Gold Coast first, and also serves up local craft beers, cider and wine, as well as non-alcoholic sips. That said, although Maniax's Brisbane CBD locale is licensed like Newstead and the Goldie, there are rules given that you're in a place where chucking around sharp implements is the main attraction. There's a limit of three drinks per person during any axe-throwing session — and if you're under the influence, you can't join in. BYO booze also isn't allowed. When it comes to the flinging, patrons get hurling in special axe-throwing lanes, with the Adelaide Street venue featuring six private lanes with two targets, as well as 12 lanes with single targets. As is always the case, no one lifts a hatchet without being shown the ropes — and taught all the necessary safety essentials, crucially — by one of Maniax's axe-perts first. From there, folks can pick between a range of blade-hurtling activities. The chain's locations do solo and small group sessions, axe-throwing events for larger parties and also date-night options (because the couple that hurls hatchets together stays together). And, if this seems like your kind of sport, it also hosts a competitive league. As for how it all works, it's comparable to darts. Basically, you chuck axes at a board and try to hit a bullseye. Don't even know the first thing about picking up a hatchet? Again, that's completely to be expected, which is why those lessons are included in every session, as well as in the league competition. And, the axe-throwing experts are also on hand to help even when you think you've mastered the basics. You won't need any guidance if you want to sit on Maniax's warrior's throne and take some snaps — including of the helmets, shields, axes and horns around the place — of course.
When someone spots a giant spider, they take notice, even when it's simply a tall metal piece of art. Seeing one of Louise Bourgeois' towering arachnids is indeed a stunning experience; however, so is watching people clock her lofty works. Her Maman sculptures demand attention. They're the type of public art that audiences just want to sit around, soak in and commune with. They're photo favourites, too, of course — and one has just arrived in Australia. This is the first time that Maman has displayed Down Under, with the world-famous piece arriving in Sydney as part of Sydney International Art Series. Bourgeois is one of three hero talents scoring a blockbuster exhibition during event, alongside Wassily Kandinsky and Tacita Dean. [caption id="attachment_927829" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Installation view of the Louise Bourgeois 'Has the Day Invaded the Night or Has the Night Invaded the Day?' exhibition at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, Felicity Jenkins[/caption] The nine-metre-high, ten-metre-wide sculpture that Bourgeois is best known for is currently on display on the forecourt of the Art Gallery of NSW, towering over the historic South Building. The sculpture hails back to 1999, and boasts its name because it's a tribute to Bourgeois' mother. The artist described her mum as "deliberate, clever, patient, soothing... and [as] useful as a spider". If you're keen to see Maman on home soil, Louise Bourgeois: Has the Day Invaded the Night, or Has the Night Invaded the Day? is running at the gallery from Saturday, November 25, 2023–Sunday, April 28, 2024, boasting 120 different works — the most comprehensive exhibition of Bourgeois's work ever to grace a gallery in the Asia Pacific. [caption id="attachment_927824" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Installation of Louise Bourgeois 'Maman' at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, Felicity Jenkins[/caption] "Bold artists inspire art museums towards new approaches," said Art Gallery of New South Wales director Michael Brand. "I am proud that Bourgeois' art has inspired an exhibition that is itself exploratory and fully exploits the dramatic potential of our expanded art museum to reveal the ceaseless exploration of life's extremes that characterised her work." "This ambitious exhibition is like none other presented at the Art Gallery, and we are very proud to bring this unique experience to Sydney this summer." The Bourgeois exhibition is on display 13 years after the Paris-born artist passed away in New York in 2010, and after she stamped her imprint upon the art of the 20th century. Visitors will see her Arch of Hysteria work down in the gallery's underground Tank, textile works of the 1990s and 2000s, and plenty in-between. [caption id="attachment_927827" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Installation view of the Louise Bourgeois 'Has the Day Invaded the Night or Has the Night Invaded the Day?' exhibition at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, Felicity Jenkins[/caption] Other highlights include The Destruction of the Father, which is among the pieces that've never been displayed in Australia before; Clouds and Caverns, which is rarely seen in general; and the mirrored piece Has the Day Invaded the Night, or Has the Night Invaded the Day?, which shares the exhibition's moniker. Alongside the display of art, there will be a free film series curated by the AGNSW's Ruby Arrowsmith-Todd. A heap of Louise Bourgeois' favourite flicks will be screened at the gallery's cinema, including 1958's Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, 1971's Harold and Maude, David Lynch's Eraserhead, John Waters' Pink Flamingos and The Wizard of Oz. [caption id="attachment_927832" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, courtesy of Roadshow PPL[/caption] [caption id="attachment_927830" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Installation view of the Louise Bourgeois 'Has the Day Invaded the Night or Has the Night Invaded the Day?' exhibition at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, Felicity Jenkins[/caption] [caption id="attachment_927831" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Installation view of the Louise Bourgeois 'Has the Day Invaded the Night or Has the Night Invaded the Day?' exhibition at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, Felicity Jenkins[/caption] [caption id="attachment_927826" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Installation view of the Louise Bourgeois 'Has the Day Invaded the Night or Has the Night Invaded the Day?' exhibition at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, Felicity Jenkins[/caption] Louise Bourgeois: Has the Day Invaded the Night, or Has the Night Invaded the Day? runs from Saturday, November 25, 2023–Sunday, April 28, 2024 at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, Art Gallery Road, The Domain, Sydney. Head to the gallery's website for more information and to purchase tickets. Top image: installation of Louise Bourgeois 'Maman' at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, Felicity Jenkins.
Valentine's Day doesn't have to announce itself loudly. Sometimes, the most memorable gestures are the ones that unfold slowly — a shared scent lingering on skin, a ritual you return to, a moment that turns into a habit. This edit leans into that quieter kind of intimacy, bringing together gifts that are better when they're experienced together. From objects designed to be split, shared or worn for someone else, to experiences that ask you to show up and participate, these are Valentine's Day picks from independent, thoughtful brands doing things differently. Think of them as ways to ignite a spark — or gently fan a flame that's already there. After something made with love instead? Explore our edit of beautiful, design-led things worth gifting. Hugs + Kisses Candle and Room Spray Pack, Two Good Co. A gift that sets the mood — and does genuine good. This candle and room spray duo is hand-poured and packed by women in Two Good Co.'s Work Work program, which provides paid employment pathways for women with lived experience of homelessness and trauma. Developed with perfumer Ainslie Walker, the scents are designed to evoke comfort, calm and self-worth — making this a gift that carries meaning well beyond the room it fills. Shop now. Cherry, Rose and Vanilla Bar, Hunted + Gathered Hunted+Gathered, the Melbourne-born chocolate brand that has revolutionised the chocolate market in Australia since its launch over a decade ago, strives to make chocolate better, using organic ingredients sourced directly from ethical growers. A taste of their limited-edition Chocolate, Rose and Vanilla Bar will certainly make your Valentine's Day better too. A subtle, yet undeniably cool gift, for those who have a taste for the finer things in life. Shop now. Apartamento Cookbook #10: APHRODISIACS, Pan After Published by cult independent magazine Apartamento, this anniversary cookbook explores desire through food — not as spectacle, but as something deeply personal. Featuring recipes and reflections from artists, writers and cooks around the world, it's less about following instructions and more about cooking together, lingering over pages and letting curiosity lead the way. Shop now. Bloody Cello, Departed Spirits Made by Melbourne-based disruptors Departed Spirits, this blood orange and ancho chilli vodka is bold, smoky and unapologetically expressive. Infused using Australian ingredients and a distinctly irreverent approach, it's designed to be mixed, shared and argued over — a drink that invites conversation as much as it does another round. Shop now. Meta Vanguard Sunglasses, Oakley For the person who loves their morning run, long ride or weekend hike almost as much as they love you. These performance sunglasses combine Oakley's sport-first design with hands-free POV capture and open-ear audio, letting them stay fully present while still recording the moments you share along the way. A considered Valentine's gift for partners who connect through movement — and prefer experiences over things. Shop now. Like Love (Saffron Colour Vinyl), Ball Park Music Pressed on limited-edition saffron vinyl, this intimate release from Brisbane's Ball Park Music is built for close listening. Warm, reflective and best enjoyed from the couch rather than the crowd, it's the kind of album that quietly soundtracks late nights and unspoken moments. Shop now. Cerise Black Two-Piece Camisole Set, Cloud Blvd Designed and made by an independent Australian lingerie label, this sheer lace set is sensual without being performative. It's meant to be worn for someone else — gifted with intention, not spectacle. The present isn't the fabric itself, but the moment it creates. Shop now. Private Valentine's Day SKYWALK, Sydney Tower Eye For couples who'd rather share an experience than unwrap a box, this private SKYWALK offers uninterrupted time together — 268 metres above the city. With limited sessions, panoramic views and sunset slots, it's a reminder that sometimes the most romantic thing is simply being alone, somewhere extraordinary. Book now. Lots of Love Gift Box, Koko Black For when words aren't quite enough, but chocolate might be. At the heart of Koko Black's Valentine's Day range, this 30-piece gift box brings together handcrafted pralines and truffles designed to be shared slowly — passed across the table, argued over, saved for later. Made by one of Australia's most loved independent chocolatiers, each piece reflects the brand's commitment to small-batch craftsmanship and quality ingredients. Shop now. Cloudknit Jersey Blake Shorts, Sheet Society From Melbourne-based bedding Sheet Society comes a thoughtful new loungewear apparel label — Resting. The brand's Cloudknit shorts are designed with versatility and inclusivity in mind. Soft, draped and genuinely comfortable on all bodies, they're the kind of shared wardrobe piece that quietly becomes a favourite (and rarely finds its way back to the original owner). Shop now. You n Me Pendant, Millie Savage A playful, contemporary take on the classic split-heart necklace, designed by independent Australian jeweller Millie Savage. Sold as a magnetic pair, it's jewellery made to be worn together — or kept close when you're apart. Sentimental, but never saccharine. Shop now. Body Oil of Summer, BRUXA Hand-poured in Australia and made with a plant-based, non-comedogenic formula, this jasmine-scented body oil is designed as a ritual rather than a routine. Silky, fast-absorbing and made for touch, it works as daily hydration — or something slower, depending on the mood. Shop now. Geo Urn Vase, FAZEEK Hand-blown in Melbourne using borosilicate glass, this sculptural urn is equal parts art object and vessel. Fill it with their favourite flowers — or yours — and let it live in shared space as a quiet reminder that beauty doesn't always need an occasion. Shop now. 100 Couples Challenge Cards, VUSH Created by Australian sexual wellness brand VUSH, this deck is designed to spark connection — emotional, playful or physical — on your own terms. With different levels of spice and a strong emphasis on consent, it's about opening conversations as much as igniting chemistry. Shop now. HIS | HER Fragrance, Who Is Elijah A cult favourite from an independent Australian fragrance house, this genderless scent is designed to be shared — or stolen. Clean, musky and quietly addictive, it smells different on everyone, which is exactly why it works as a couple's fragrance. Shop now. Astoria Necklace, Cameron Studio Designed by Melbourne-based Cameron Studio and made in Italy from solid 925 sterling silver, this Figaro chain is understated, durable and designed to age well. Wear it daily, layer it, or subtly match — it's jewellery that favours longevity over trend cycles. Shop now. Cooking Classes for Two, RedBalloon Because doing something together is often better than owning something together. From pasta-making to cocktail workshops, these hands-on classes turn Valentine's Day into a shared memory — and a skill you'll actually use again. Book now. ONE35 V2 Camera, Flashback Created by an independent Australian startup, this digital camera reintroduces the thoughtfulness of film photography — without the waste. Limited to 27 shots at a time, it encourages presence, anticipation and shared moments, with the option to wait 24 hours before viewing images. A modern keepsake-maker for trips, nights out and memories worth sitting with. Shop now. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence our recommendations, but they may earn us a small commission. For more information, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
You've played Nintendo's Mario games, including on Google Maps and mobile phones. You've tried your hand at Mario Kart in reality. You've made plans to hit up the Super Nintendo theme park in Japan, or perhaps the upcoming second site in Hollywood. And you've watched 1993's live-action Super Mario Bros, which starred Bob Hoskins as the titular, John Leguizamo as Luigi and Dennis Hopper as King Koopa. If all of the above fit — or even just some of it, because everyone has pressed start on at least one Mario game — then you're primed for the character's next leap to the big screen. This time, it's happening in animation, and Nintendo has just dropped a colourful sneak peek during its Nintendo Direct stream. The film: The Super Mario Bros Movie, which has enlisted Chris Pratt (The Terminal List) to voice the Italian plumber, because the former Parks and Recreation star doesn't have enough big franchises (see: Guardians of the Galaxy, Jurassic World and The Lego Movie) on his resume. (So far, there's only one new Super Mario Bros, but predicting there'll be more if it does well at the box office is as easy as collecting mushrooms in the games.) As initial teaser trailers tend to do, there's little in terms of story in this first glimpse at the movie — but Mario does frolic his way to the Mushroom Kingdom. Luigi (voiced by Charlie Day, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia) gets a-running in spooky surroundings (here's hoping that games' haunted house soundtrack makes the jump to cinemas, too) and Bowser (Jack Black, Apollo 10 1/2: A Space Age Childhood) gets fiery as well. Also among The Super Mario Bros Movie's voice cast: Anya Taylor-Joy (Amsterdam) as Princess Peach, Keegan- Michael Key (Reboot) as Toad, Seth Rogen (Pam & Tommy) as Donkey Kong and Fred Armisen (Los Espookys) as Cranky Kong. Hailing from directors Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic (Teen Titans Go!, Teen Titans Go! To the Movies), penned by Matthew Fogel (Minions: The Rise of Gru) and produced by Illumination Entertainment (aka the studio behind the Despicable Me and Minions flicks, and the Sing films), the movie reaches cinemas Down Under at the end of March 2023. That gives you plenty of time to mash buttons in the interim — just try watching this first sneak peek and not busting out your old Mario games. Check out the trailer below: The Super Mario Bros Movie releases in cinemas Down Under on March 30, 2023.
Think the Gold Coast is just beaches? Think again. Just over an hour's drive from Brisbane, you'll find a freshwater mountain creek in the Currumbin Valley. The pools are a network of connected waters, winding around bushland and rocks to form mini-swimming holes that vary from wadeable to 'my feet can't touch the bottom'. You could spend all afternoon exploring the nooks and curves of this creek and scrambling around rocks and waterfalls. Or, just pick your ideal spot for floating around and stay there. There's lots of space to share — which is a good thing because this is a popular spot. Refuel with a barbecue or picnic on the lawn under the lush, tropical slopes of the forest. Image: Tourism and Events Queensland
Canberra is set to glow again as Enlighten Festival returns in 2026, transforming the capital into a city-wide playground of art, ideas and after-dark discovery. Running for 11 days from Friday, February 27 to Monday, March 9, the festival invites locals and visitors alike to explore Canberra in ways you normally wouldn't. Now in its 16th year, Enlighten delivers a packed program of world premieres, Canberra-firsts and large-scale experiences that tell Australian stories through art, exhibitions and immersive installations. At the heart of the festival are the Illuminations, the only time of year Canberra's national institutions unite to showcase monumental, original artworks across their facades. In 2026, architectural projections will light up the Australian Parliament House, the National Library of Australia, the National Gallery of Australia, Questacon, the National Portrait Gallery, and the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House. The lineup features works by celebrated artists Kaylene Whiskey, Yarrenyty Arltere Artists, Grace Kemarre Robinya, Sam Wallman, Philip Bunting, and Eleanor and Giovanni. After dark, Enlighten: The Night Shift unlocks Canberra's major institutions for unexpected late-night experiences. Think karaoke and live performances inside the Department of Memories at the Museum of Australian Democracy, free lantern-making at the National Archives, and degustation dining within the walls of Parliament House. The Festival Hub Artworks turn the National Triangle into an open-air gallery filled with immersive installations and roaming performances. World premieres, including Serendipity by Atelier Sisu and Glitch Monument by Collide Public Art, make their debut, alongside large-scale installations such as Whispers of Wonderment and Amorphia. Beyond the Triangle, Enlighten: BEYOND encourages audiences to venture further across the city, connecting Canberra's arts organisations, institutions, and local businesses through exhibitions, events, and pop-up experiences throughout the festival. One of the festival's standout moments is Symphony in the Park, a free, all-ages outdoor concert in Commonwealth Park. In 2026, Mark Seymour of Hunters & Collectors joins the Canberra Symphony Orchestra for world-premiere orchestral arrangements of classics, including Holy Grail and Throw Your Arms Around Me. Entry is free, but booking tickets is essential to secure your spot. The program is rounded out with events for those keen to dive deeper, from Luminous Ideas at Canberra Theatre Centre — featuring Jennifer Wong's FEAST — to the immersive digital exhibition Leonardo da Vinci – 500 Years of Genius. Whether you're visiting Canberra for the first time or rediscovering your own backyard, Enlighten Festival 2026 is an invitation to wander, connect and see the city in a whole new light. Plan your trip to Enlighten Festival 2026 and see the program here.
Formula 1 weekend in Melbourne has long blurred the lines between sport, fashion and spectacle — and in 2026, beauty is firmly back in the race. MECCA is returning trackside at the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Australian Grand Prix with a full-scale Beauty Pit Stop — a pop-up beauty garage inspired by the lightning-fast pit stops that keep cars race-ready. [caption id="attachment_1072206" align="alignnone" width="1920"] 2025's MECCA MAX Beauty Pit Stop Activation.[/caption] Set up in the Melbourne Junction precinct at Albert Park and open to fans of all ticket types, the activation reimagines the mechanics of race day for humans instead of cars. Think less tyre changes, more touch-ups: race-goers can drop in between sessions for complimentary express eye services designed for speed, impact and endurance — the kind of glam that can survive sun, crowds and 58 laps of racing. The Pit Stop format is deliberately fast-paced. Rather than lingering makeovers, it's about quick turnarounds and high-performance results — a concept that mirrors the rhythm of the race itself. Alongside the express services, a curated edit of MECCA MAX products will be available to shop trackside, including a limited-edition Formula 1-inspired eye set created exclusively for the 2026 Grand Prix. This marks the third consecutive year MECCA has gone trackside at the Australian Grand Prix, but the scale and ambition of the Beauty Pit Stop has grown with each return. Last year's activation proved a crowd favourite, offering shaded reset zones, complimentary touch-ups and bold, race-ready colour — and this year's iteration leans even harder into the idea of beauty as part of the event experience, not just an afterthought. With Melbourne's Grand Prix consistently attracting one of the highest proportions of female fans on the global Formula 1 calendar, the Pit Stop also reflects a broader shift in how major sporting events are being designed — not just for spectatorship, but for participation, self-expression and culture beyond the track. The MECCA MAX Beauty Pit Stop will run throughout the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Australian Grand Prix, from March 5–8, 2026. Consider it your quickest stop of the weekend — no booking required. Images: MECCA | Groblox
Since opening in 2014, The Woolly Mammoth has been a mainstay of the Fortitude Valley nightlife scene. Originally opening as a hip craft beer hall and live music venue, the dark, man cave bar downstairs has received quite the transformation in the past couple of years. Enter Ivory Tusk, a vibrant and eye-popping reimagining of what the much-loved locale could be and ultimately still is. Described best as a brother-sister dynamic, the brother has remained upstairs from its sister as the Woolly Mammoth Mane Stage. Local and Aussie acts from all genres regularly play to intimate crowds here with bands like Violent Soho, Gang of Youths and Boo Seeka all finding their way onto the stage. A full bar is available but food has been left up to the Woolly Mammoth's lil sis to deal with. Make sure to fuel up on Mexican-inspired eats and margaritas downstairs before heading up and taking your place on the D-floor.
Staying in the Venzin Group family, Picnic's acai bowl is slightly more mild in terms of the intense acai berry flavour but equally as delectable. Blended with banana and assembled with even rows of honey toasted Byron Bay Macadamia Muesli, shredded coconut, cranberries, strawberry rounds and fresh banana. The always-beaming team will also customise it for you with Paleo granola if regular isn't your thing. Perfectly enjoyed on a hot day by the giant bay window.
Step inside the heritage-listed Rothwell's building on Edward Street and, thanks to the bar and grill that now shares its name, you can be forgiven for feeling like you're on the other side of the world. There's a firmly classic look and vibe to the space that previously housed Jamie's Italian — think: gleaming chandeliers that'd make Sia sing, white marble aplenty, leather booths decked out with vintage table lamps, and silver trays and carafes. The latest venue from 1889 Enoteca's Dan Clark, Rothwell's Bar and Grill might call a 136-year-old Brisbane building home, but it takes its cues from hospitality institutions much further afield. London's The Savoy Grill and The Wolseley are two of them. Musso & Frank Grill in Los Angeles is another — as well as New York's entire dining scene. For Brisbanites, the result is the kind of venue that aims to make you forget you're in the busiest part of the city — even if you've just made the dash from the Queen Street Mall or Central Station. Joining Clark is chef Ben Russell (ex-Aria, Est Est Est) and, together, they've shaped the newcomer after their favourite eateries from around the globe, following a quarter-century of scoping out the best dining rooms and bars the international scene has to offer. The Rothwell's sit-down experience takes patrons to the 90-seat Marble Bar area, where all that Italian marble — and those aforementioned leather banquettes — provide a light yet intimate atmosphere. If you're just stopping by for a drink, however, the 40-seater Foyer Bar will be your destination. And, for bigger dinners and events, the private dinning room caters to 50 seated guests, or 100 folks standing. It's found in the building's cellar, so you'll be surrounded by 2000-plus bottles of wine, plus eye-catching sandstone walls. Standout dishes at Rothwell's include prawn cocktails and steak tartare among the starters; reef fish with roast fennel, tomato, and basil vinaigrette, and beef wellington from the mains; and chocolate trifle, and pistachio brûlée with chocolate gelato from the dessert offerings. Drinks options span martinis, old fashioned, negronis and Hemingway daquiri — again, the feel here is classic — which, at the bar, are paired with food choices such as oysters, niçoise salad and a club sandwich. Wine lovers can also take advantage of that stacked cellar — which you can visit, and which also houses and sells wines bought from all around the world from Clark's own collection. If your bank balance doesn't quite let you afford a cognac from the 1890s (understandably so), you'll find tipples from all the usual producers, as well as from smaller names from regions such as Burgundy, Chablis, Bordeaux, Champagne and Barolo. And, for digestifs, there's a dedicated armagnac cart, complete with bottles collected from Europe and dating back to the 1920s. Images: Dean Swindell.
Beloved Brisbane pop-up Birria Boy has proven so popular that it has, to the delight of locals, now become a permanent fixture. That means its bold flavours, refreshing bevs, and upbeat vibes are here to stay. "From the moment we opened, the response was immediate. We built Birria Boy as a pop-up to test the idea, but the support from the community made the decision easy. People kept coming back, bringing their friends, really connecting with what we're doing here. Brisbane, you asked for it, so here we are," says chef and owner Andy Ashby. The restaurant is housed in a heritage building designed in collaboration with JDA Architects, Sophie Hart Design and ICU Design. An upgraded, original wood-fired oven proudly sits as a centrepiece in the kitchen. This Mexican venture is a project from the AW Hospitality Team (from C'Est Bon and Le Bon Bar), with Ashby leading the charge. Ashby's menu is influenced by the street-style energy of Jalisco and built on the smoky flavours of fire and spice. The hero dish, the birria taco, features slow-cooked goat or beef (or wood-fired braised mushrooms) served in a crispy shell, primed for dunking into the aromatic, hearty consommé. If you prefer, there are also fresh masa tacos filled with confit duck, frijoles, burnt orange and radish, or tempura prawns with tomatillo, cactus and crema verde. Alongside tacos, snack on corn ribs with chipotle crema, woodfired jalapeños stuffed with chorizo, tuna belly tostadas, or lamb skewers with charred pineapple. For something larger, opt for smoked goat ribs, lamb barbacoa or chicken asado, cooked over the woodfire, and served with flour tortillas and condiments. "Birria Boy is all about creating a fun, casual space that serves great food and drinks with energy," says Ashby. "We wanted somewhere for people to drop in before a show at The Princess Theatre or stay late for tacos and margaritas. It's approachable, it's full of flavour and a place to get your hands messy." To drink, as expected, there is a healthy selection of tequilas, mezcals and agave spirits, sourced mostly from small-batch growers in Mexico and even a locally made spirit from Far North Queensland, Beudi Agave. Cool down with ice-cold Mexican lagers on tap, slushie cocktails or frozen margs. "Birria Boy adds a different layer to what we do. It's fast, it's fun, it's a little bit loud, and it gives people another reason to come into the precinct. It complements C'est Bon without competing with it. This is about giving the locals something that feels good and keeps them coming back", says Ashby. The news of Birria Boy's permanency marks the next phase of AW Hospitality's continued expansion across Brisbane. Now that it has moved beyond its pop-up days, the beloved Mexican joint will continue to evolve and expand its menu, while maintaining a high-energy and bustling dining space. Images: Supplied.
When you've been sipping on blue milk, how ready will you be to battle the Galactic Empire? Will tucking into green burgers and dessert space stations get you fuelled to rebel against oppression? There's only one way to find out the answers to these questions: by visiting the brand-new Star Wars Galactic Cafe, an Australian-first eatery that's now open at Melbourne Museum. After the Victorian venue became the top spot right now, in this very galaxy, to see Star Wars come to life via Lego courtesy of the world-premiering Lego Star Wars: The Exhibition — and the only place to check out life-sized recreations of the space saga's locations, characters, duels and moments as made out of eight-million-plus plastic bricks, in fact — the same site has welcomed another Aussie debut. As first announced back in May, never before has an official Star Wars cafe popped up Down Under. This one is only here for a limited season. Yes, blue milk is definitely on offer, because it wouldn't be a Star Wars-themed spot for a snack and a sip without it. You can enjoy it chilled or as part of a slushie. And the source of that all-important hue? Butterfly pea flower powder. The cafe's full food and drink range features other dishes and selections inspired by the franchise — and while there's no green milk or fish eggs, green-hued burgs and a Death Star by chocolate sweet treat are ready to tempt your tastebuds. Fittingly, the bites and drinks have names like Canto Bight Burger, Naboo Garden Vermicelli, Outer Rim Chicken Katsu and Tatooine Sunset. Also on offer: a Chewie gingerbread cookie that adorably resembles its namesake. A range of kids meal packs are available, too, with monikers such as Endo Explorer (featuring chicken nuggets) and Padawan Power (with a hummus and salad sandwich). Open since Saturday, June 7, 2025, the Star Wars Galactic Cafe is the result of Australian-first collaboration between Museums Victoria, Disney and Lucasfilm. The decor matches the menu, with the pop-up delivering an immersive eating and drinking experience beyond what you're consuming by taking you to a Corellian Star Cruiser to get feasting. If this sounds like the kind of spot that'll be popular, that's because it already is — so bookings are encouraged, with walk-in availability limited. As for the Aussie-exclusive exhibition that goes with it and opened back in May, it's the largest collection of life-sized Lego Star Wars models ever assembled and the biggest touring Lego showcase ever. The Millennium Falcon, Emperor Palpatine's throne flanked by two Royal Guards, a stormtrooper helmet, Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader facing off, and the Mandalorian and Moff Gideon: they're all featured in Lego Star Wars: The Exhibition, which hails from Ryan McNaught aka Brickman. Find the Star Wars Galactic Cafe at Melbourne Museum, 11 Nicholson Street, Carlton, operating from 10.30am–3.30pm daily for a limited season. Head to the museum's website for bookings and more details. Lego Star Wars: The Exhibition runs until Monday, January 26, 2026 at Melbourne Museum, 11 Nicholson Street, Carlton. Head to the exhibition's website for tickets and more details. Images: Carmen Zammit, courtesy of Museums Victoria.
