Whatever dinner plans you have in July, you'd best cancel them. And your lunch dates and brekkie hangouts, just to be safe. They're the kind of things you can do any old time. Gorging yourself silly at Brisbane Good Food Month isn't. Pop-up eateries, celebrity chefs and all the restaurant specials you can dream of are on the agenda for this year's mouthwatering, month-long food bonanza, which boasts plenty of old favourites as well as a whole heap of new events. The return of the oh-so-popular Night Noodle Markets falls into the former category, taking over South Bank from July 20 to 31. As for the latter, well, where do we begin? Enjoying a sit-down meal on the Goodwill Bridge is certain to get your stomach rumbling, and dinner with the team behind TV's Plonk should as well. So will Brisbane stopovers from some of the best culinary kings — and their respective kitchens — in the business, with George Calombaris bringing his Gazi favourites to Atalanta, Frank Camorra whisking MoVida's finest to Gerard's Bistro, David Thompson showcasing his Nahm best at LONgTIME, and Momofoku Seiōbo executive chef Paul Carmichael cooking up a storm at GOMA. With a three-course vegan feast with matched wines at Urbane and an eight-course chef's table evening at Gauge on the bill as well, not to mention Luke Nguyen letting patrons peek behind the scenes at Fat Noodle too, one thing is certain — if you're feeling hungry at any point during July, then you're doing Good Food Month wrong. Thank goodness it happens in winter, because with all these tasty morsels on offer, the entire city will need to be breaking out their stretchiest pants. Brisbane Good Food Month runs from July 1 to 31 at various restaurants and venues across the city. For more information, check out the Good Food Month website.
When a city is home to sunny weather basically all year round, it's also home to plenty of places to enjoy a scoop or several of tastebud-cooling desserts. In 2017, however, Brisbane went one better. We screamed for ice cream at our own dedicated ice cream festival — and then we screamed again in 2018, 2019 and 2021. Those frozen sweet treat-induced exclamations are set to continue in 2022, too, with the Brisbane Ice Cream Festival returning to West End's West Village precinct — home to the old Peter's Ice Cream factory — for a huge fifth event. Perhaps this sweet treat-loving city's most popular occasion, as past ticket registrations have shown, BICF is hanging around for longer this time as well. Brisbanites will be able to gorge on frosty, creamy food from Thursday, March 17–Sunday, April 3, with much of the dessert-themed fun concentrated on the weekends of Friday, March 18–Saturday, March 19, Saturday, March 26–Sunday, March 27 and Saturday, April 2–Sunday, April 3. So, like choosing how high to pile ice cream on top of a cone or into a bowl, you have options, including tucking into dessert degustations and hitting up pop-up vendors. Across its first weekend, Brisbane Ice Cream Festival will host indulgent multi-course dinners at 6pm — all filled with dessert. Chefs Phillip Johnson (E'cco Bistro and Philip Johnson Catering), William Wallace (William Wallace Group) and Matt Golinski (Ready Steady Cook and Peppers Noosa Resort) will do the honours in the kitchen, and attendees will be treated to an experimental lineup of twists on sweet-treat favourites for $129 a ticket. Some dishes will even be savoury, but they'll all tie into the dessert theme. On its second weekend, the fest will set up crafty activities for kids for $10 a pop, while the event's third weekend will showcase a heap of different ice cream joints — West Village's own newcomer Anita Gelato included, obviously, but also the likes of Ungermann Brothers and Roll It Ice Cream Co as well. And, if you head along for an ice cream fix during the week, you can expect a host of different specials right through the entire fest. Whichever part of the fest you attend — and how many times you go along — arrive hungry, obviously. Brisbane Ice Cream Festival takes place from Thursday, March 17–Sunday, April 3 at West Village, 97 Boundary Road, West End. For more information or to buy tickets, head to the festival website. Top image: Anita Gelato, Liquidity.
You probably recognise the above image of Daniel Kaluuya's terrified face, it's been floating around the internet in meme form over the past couple of weeks. It's also a still from Get Out—the highly anticipated new film from Universal Pictures released in cinemas on May 4. Watch the truly terrifying trailer if you haven't yet. The film has accrued a rare 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and critics around the world are biding time until they get the chance to see this gripping thriller, also a timely, provocative commentary on the world's current state of race relations. The story follows a young, African-American man (Daniel Kaluuya) as he meets his white girlfriend's (Allison Williams) parents at their family estate. At first, Chris believes that the family's welcoming behaviour is a nervous attempt to deal with their daughter's interracial relationship, but as the weekend progresses he discovers a number of disturbing things to make him think otherwise and becomes suspicious of the real reason behind his visit. Somewhat surprisingly, the gripping film is written and directed by Jordan Peele (one half of Key and Peele, the comedy duo known for classic skits such as Text Confusion and Continental Breakfast). We're hosting three advanced screenings of Get Out exclusive to Concrete Playground readers. The Brisbane screening will be at New Farm Cinemas, at 6.30pm on April 10. Fill in your details below to go into the draw to win one of 100 double passes. [competition]613815[/competition]
Now a lot of us are spending so much time at home, it's important to be as comfy as possible. Melbourne-designed Eva Mattress is here to help up your comfort level with its biggest annual sale yet. Think half-price sheets and hundreds of dollars off mattresses — and that's just the start. For its 19-day sale, running from Wednesday, June 17 till 11.59pm on Sunday, July 5, the local Aussie retailer is offering big end-of-year discounts. Expect $150 off its Eva mattress, $50 off the Eva pillow and a whopping 50 percent off the Eva sheets, which brings the latter down to just $120 for a set. And these aren't your run-of-the-mill bedding products, either. The award-winning mattress-in-a-box has been engineered as a hybrid, which means it combines the comfort of memory foam with the support of pocket springs. The memory foam pillow uses activated charcoal to keep you cool and dry throughout the night. The 400-thread count sheets and duvet sets are made from eucalyptus fibres — making them soft, cool and completely biodegradable. If you do spring for the mattress, sheets or pillow, they come with a 120-night free trial, so you can be sure they'll help you get a good night sleep before you commit. All mattress orders come with free next-day delivery to metro areas, too. 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.
Beer lovers, waiting for a bartender to get your drink is now a thing of the past. Following in the footsteps of make-your-own burger joints and self-service checkouts, pouring your own pints is now a reality. We mean at a bar, of course — and at one place in particularly. That'd be the aptly named Taps, where you'd best grab your own beverage because no one else is going to do it for you. Taps started out in Mooloolaba, and after almost two years of letting Sunshine Coast locals freshen their own schooners, they're bringing the concept to Brisbane. It's as straightforward as it sounds, and uses tokens called iButtons to track your consumption. You purchase an iButton, add enough credit to cover what you think you'll drink, then place it on your tap — or taps — of choice. Here, you pay by the millilitre, meaning that you can sample as many brews as you like. Food, music and other events also feature once the bar opens today on July 4 — but let's be honest, it’s the beer everyone is interested in. Best practice your pouring, because you'll want your self-served drinks to be a no foam zone. Find Taps at 315 Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley, or visit their website and Facebook page for more information.
Sydney electronica virtuoso Rainbow Chan's long-awaited debut album Spacings is kind of like listening to pop through an infinity mirror — you can hear it stretching away forever, but you can't touch it, no matter how you turn your head. Give it a try. Staple pop lyrics like "I don't blame you/for treating me so cruel" find new, uneasy galactic life on this album, the very first full-length from one of the city's most inventive, classically-trained producers. Chan's debut album launch tour will see her hit several states in the next few weeks, and she won't be alone. As well as showcasing tracks from Spacings, Chan will be performing as a three-piece with up-and-coming Aussie musicians/producers/buddies Moon Holiday and CORIN. Haven't listened to the album yet? Get on it. Since winning FBi Radio's Northern Lights Competition in 2011, Chan's come a long way from her bubblegum beginnings. She's described Spacings as a pop record that tries to incorporate influences, recordings and samples that are 100 percent not pop. So if your bag is contemplating lost love as your consciousness floats dangerously close to the ceiling fan, this is definitely one for you.
While it might seem like another bar and eatery opens in Fortitude Valley every week, the latest addition to the inner-city suburb isn't your average restaurant or boozy hangout. For starters, when we say it's in the Brunswick Street Mall, we really do mean it. That's because 88 Forty Eight Bar and Restaurant isn't just a new place to eat and drink when you're out and about. It's also the next pod-based space to pop up as part of the Brisbane City Council's Fortitude Valley revitalisation plan. From July 1, it'll serve breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week from its compact, cosy confines right in the middle of the popular thoroughfare. Owned and run by Nepalese-born chef Hom Pyashi, 88 Forty Eight takes its name from the peak height of Mount Everest. The menu offers up modern multicultural fusion, such as French toast for brekkie; burgers, salads and schnitzels for a midday meal; and steak, nachos, pasta and Asian Atlantic salmon in the evening. In tribute to Pyashi's homeland, a percentage of the bar's profits will be donated to Nepal-focused charity The Uniting Hands Foundation. In case you're not quite up-to-date on the pod concept, allow us to enlighten you. If you wandered through the Brunswick Street Mall over the last year or so, you've probably noticed a few new structures starting to materialise. They're ideal for small bars and stores, and can house anything from a Mexican joint to an entertainment space. As a matter of fact, the first two pods boasted just that, with Tuckeria's Burrito Shack unleashing everyone's favourite tortilla-wrapped dish since April 2015, and a second space operating as a combined stage and information booth. Find 88 Forty Eight Bar and Restaurant in the Brunswick Street Mall from July 1. Check out their website for more information.
These days, barely a week passes by without a new Mexican eatery joining Brisbane's vibrant, multicultural restaurant scene. But don't dismiss the city's next addition as 'just another taco joint'. If you've been to Chingon Cantina y Taqueria in Melbourne, you'll know what we're talking about. From late July, Chingon will bring its street food focus to Brisbane's Eagle Lane, including five different types of soft tortilla tacos, three kinds of salsa and fire-roasted corn on the cob. If you're already salivating at that lineup, you'll pleased to know that everything will be available for both lunch and dinner six days a week. Drinks-wise, expect plenty of citrus-focused cocktails to wash it all down with — and, yes, plenty of tequila as well. No, it's not a coincidence that the cantina will be nestling in next door to US-themed dive bar Brooklyn Standard. Sharing the same owners (Adam Barton and Emmanuel Sakellarakis), it's actually the next step in their plan to turn the laneway into an American-focused food and drink haven. A Cuban-oriented joint is also in the works further down the track. Find Chingon Cantina y Taqueria Brisbane in Eagle Lane from late July, and keep an eye on their Facebook page for more details.
With Splendour in the Grass just days away, Brisbanites should be getting ready for one of two things: carting their festival survival kit down south, or moping around town with a serious case of FOMO. Thanks to the Southside Tea Room, there's now a third option. Prepare to feast on street food at the inner east's coolest cafe and bar combo. From July 22 to 26, the beloved Morningside hangout is opening up their beer garden to four of the city's favourite mobile eateries. There's a reason they're calling it a food truck takeover, after all — and not just because their usual meals on wheels joint, Red Robin Supper Truck, has hightailed it to Byron Bay for a weekend of backstage catering duties. Grab dinner on Wednesday from the fine sandwich-loving folks at How We Rolls, then enjoy the Bone Lorry's burgers on Thursday evening. To properly kick off the weekend, munch on King Of The Wings' fried chicken goodness on Friday. Saturday is a food-truck-free day, but you'll want to rush back for a Mexican brunch from Juan More Taco on Sunday morning. Delicious bites to eat aren't the only attraction, with Southside's grungier sibling, Death Valley, open for business as well. Pairing several of their ten beers on tap with a feast of bread, meat, wings and tacos sounds like bliss. You'll soon be saying "what music festival?" Southside Tea Room's Food Truck Takeover runs from July 22 to 26. Check out the event's Facebook page for more information. Image: How We Rolls.
Casual face-melter Courtney Barnett is finally about to have a debut album under her already trophy-laden belt. So naturally, the Melbourne-based shredder has announced her Australian debut album tour for May 2015. This one's going to sell fast. Marking the release of her first ever LP, Sometimes I Sit and Think, And Sometimes I Just Sit (out Friday, March 20 via Barnett's own Milk! Records and Remote Control), this tour follows Barnett's epic performances at Laneway festival around the country over the last few weeks. Having already proved herself one of Australia's brightest sparks over the last few years with her 2013 EP release The Double EP: A Sea of Split Peas, Barnett's spins one hell of a live show — having nailed sets at Lollapalooza, South by Southwest and New York City's CMJ. Barnett will cruise from Adelaide's The Gov on Friday, May 1 to Perth's Bakery on Saturday, May 2. Then it's over to Sydney's The Metro on Friday, May 8 and Brisbane's Hi-Fi on Saturday, May 9. In classic Australian artist form, Barnett will wrap things up in her hometown of Melbourne on Friday, May 15 at The Forum.
If you're thinking about fermentation and yeast, you're probably thinking about beer. You may not realise it, but you could also be thinking about bread. Brewing ales and baking loaves have more in common than it seems. Don't believe us? Well, maybe you'll believe the gang at the Scratch as part of the Alementary series. That's where they broaden your horizons, and we're not just talking about them pouring you drinks. Their popular classes dive into the method behind the magic of your favourite beverage. This week, the topic is sourdough, in all its fermented glory. Why does it taste so good? How do you make it at home? And what does it have to do with beer? Expect to learn all that and more, plus eat and drink more than a few samples. You'll be an expert on wild fermentation, alternative grain and sourdough brews in no time, and you'll get a starter kit and recipes to make your own bread at home, too. Space is limited, so if you want to get baking, you'd best get booking. Tickets are available over the bar or by calling (07) 31079910.
They're two of the biggest food trends filling stomachs around the globe, and they're making their way to Brisbane. We're talking about poke bowls and sushi burritos. One is a Hawaiian salad dish combining rice, greens and raw fish, while the other is exactly what you think it is — and they'll both be available at South Bank newcomer Suki from November. In fact, the latest venture from The Ole Group (aka the folks behind Mucho Mexicano, Ole Restaurant and Mister Paganini) will be Brisbane's first specialty sushi burrito and poke bowl eatery. And, while pre-made options will be available, Suki won't just providing its scrumptious offerings from a set menu. Making your own will be all the rage here, with diners selecting the grain base, protein filling, other accompaniments and type of wrap for their burritos, and stepping through a similar process for their bowls. A completely different venture to Fortitude Valley's new Suki Japanese & Sushi (although some confusion is more than likely), Suki takes over the space Italian restaurant Dell U'Go previously called home on Grey Street — and they won't be alone. A ramen joint will also sharing the site. While it doesn't currently have a name, anywhere that serves up more ramen is fine by us. Suki will open at 182 Grey Street, South Bank from November. Via The Courier-Mail. Image: Michael Saechang.
Throw those GoPros, bubble bottles and novelty gumboots in your rucksack, Splendour in the Grass is returning to North Byron Parklands for another year of festival merriment. After an little ol' Spotify playlist gave the game away last week before the official announce on triple j this morning, Splendour have released their 2015 lineup. Joining the already-leaked, epic likes of Blur, Mark Ronson, Florence and The Machine, Death Cab For Cutie, The Wombats, Tame Impala and Of Monsters And Men, Pond, Royal Blood and the Dandy Warhols is one heck of a huge lineup. Odd Future's Earl Sweatshirt is back, Australia's own dancefloor kings Flight Facilities are landing back home, Azealia Banks makes her Australian festival return and Spiritualised will play their only Australian show. Ryan Adams is comin' on over, Best Coast is bringing the beachery back to Splendour, while recent Coachella-smash Jenny Lewis is one of the non-leaked bigwigs we can all get squealy about. SXSW buzz artists like Gengahr and Elliphant are coming, UK producer Shlomo will take things down a notch (and King Khan will do exactly the opposite), while Canadian duo Purity Ring should be one packed-out, all-the-emotions must-see. Australian artists really dominate the lineup this year, including Client Liaison, Elizabeth Rose, Hayden James, Megan Washington, Thundamentals, Meg Mac, Japanese Wallpaper, Dune Rats and more. Plus, there's going to be four stages this year, with the new Tiny Dancer stage joining the Amphitheatre, Mix Up, GW McLennan stages to host Splendour's DJ lineup. Anywho, here's what you came here for, get amongst it. Splendour In The Grass 2015 lineup Blur Florence + The Machine Mark Ronson Of Monsters & Men The Wombats Tame Impala Peking Duk Ryan Adams Flight Facilities Royal Blood (only Aus show) Death Cab For Cutie Earl Sweatshirt Boy & Bear Porter Robinson (Live) The Dandy Warhols (only Aus show) Xavier Rudd & The United Nations Azealia Banks The Rubens Jamie T Pond Spiritualized (only Aus show) Alison Wonderland Thundamentals Best Coast Everything Everything San Cisco MS MR Jarryd James Purity Ring Allday Carmada The Grates The Smith Street Band Tkay Maidza Johnny Marr Last Dinosaurs Megan Washington The Vaccines #1 Dads The Church Kitty, Daisy & Lewis The King Khan & The BBQ Show Alpine Catfish and the Bottlemen Paul Mac Dustin Tebbutt MØ Years & Years Jenny Lewis C.W. Stoneking Seekae George Maple Elliphant Client Liaison Palma Violets SAFIA Hayden James Dune Rats Wolf Alice Meg Mac Cosmo's Midnight Marmozets Oh Mercy Mansionair The Districts Shlohmo Elizabeth Rose The Delta Riggs Circa Waves Nancy Whang Eves The Behaviour Urban Cone Art of Sleeping Japanese Wallpaper Gengahr Bad//Dreems Ecca Vandal Holy Holy Vallis Alps UV Boi The Babe Rainbow Harts Generik Young Franco Mickey Kojak GL Benson Harvey Sutherland Total Giovanni DJs Dugong Jr I'lls Akouo Noise In My Head triple j Unearthed Winners Plus ... Joyride Post Percy Ara Koufax CC:Disco! Adi Toohey Set Mo Edd Fisher Mike Who Shantan Wantan Ichiban Splendour will return to North Byron Parklands on Friday 24, Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 July. Onsite camping will once again be available from Wednesday 22 July. Tickets go on sale on 9am AEST, Thursday 23 April. More info available at the official Splendour In The Grass site.
It has a marketplace, cinema, pub, more than a few bars, cafes and restaurants, and plenty of places to go shopping — but one thing Fortitude Valley's James Street doesn't have is a boutique hotel. Well, it doesn't at the moment. Come 2018, that statement will no longer be accurate. Meet The Calile, a resort-style haunt due to pop up right on the edge of the city — and right in the heart of one of the most happening parts of town. Described as "a true urban oasis", the seven-storey, 178-room, Richards & Spence Architects-designed accommodation hub will be the second establishment in the TFE Hotels Collection after Canberra's Hotel Kurrajong, Of course, given its location, The Calile won't just offer a nice place to stay for tourists and anyone looking for a fancy staycation spot, though it'll definitely do that. It'll also boast a pool, cabanas, day spa, fitness centre and a poolside restaurant, plus over 2600 square meters of new retail and hospitality space for more stores and eateries. Basically, given the current makeup of James Street, it'll fit right in. Plus, news of the new hotel answers a question that plenty of Brisbanites have been wondering about since the building on the corner of James, Doggett and Wandoo streets was torn down recently. Yes, that's exactly where you'll find what's certain to be your new favourite place to hangout in two years time. And with nearby Palace Centro also kicking off their renovations — including adding more cinema screens — the whole area is about to look quite a bit different. The Callie Brisbane is due to open on James, Doggett and Wandoo streets, Fortitude Valley in 2018. For more information, keep an eye on the hotel's website.
Film festivals don't just happen all the time — they happen all over the place, too. Yes, Brisbane plays host to more than its fair share of cinematic celebrations; however it's not the only spot in Queensland to showcase movie gems from around the world. Since 2002, the Gold Coast Film Festival has also been serving up an annual feast of film, with everything from Pan's Labyrinth and The Cabin in the Woods to The Grand Budapest Hotel and Ex Machina gracing its screens over the last thirteen years. They're quite the nice flick picks — and their 2016 program also offers up its fair share of gems from March 31 to April 10. Take these five, for example. If anything's worth making the drive down south — and hitting the beach beforehand to make a day of it, of course — it's these movies. SCARE CAMPAIGN Winking, nodding, all-knowing meta-textual horror efforts have been all the rage for more than a few years now; however the Cairnes brothers' follow-up to 100 Bloody Acres is a welcome addition to the fold. Named after a fictional TV program that pranks unsuspecting people by placing them in frightening situations, the movie follows the show's attempts to boost scares and ratings to compete with a new, gorier web series. To say that the aftermath of their efforts boasts quite the body count is an understatement. Expect plenty of blood, just as many screams, and a film that works through a checklist of genre staples but never feels like it's just ticking the usual boxes. GIRL ASLEEP If Wes Anderson made an Australian-set, 1970's era film about the trials and tribulations of being a teenage girl — and the dream world its 15-year-old protagonist needs to escape into to find the strength to cope with problems such as dorky parents, bullying peers and a best friend who wants to be something more — there's no doubting that it would look like Girl Asleep. This stage-to-screen production is as inventive as it is insightful, and as heartfelt and hilarious too. And, the Aussie treat comes to the Gold Coast after opening the teen-oriented section of the 2016 Berlin International Film Festival. MR RIGHT We've all been there: recently single, looking to mingle, and falling for someone new. Luckily, unlike Anna Kendrick in killer comedy Mr Right, few of us have found out that the object of our affections is also a hitman. That the assassin in question is played by the ever-charming Sam Rockwell is certain to soften the blow, and to make the amusing action effort that results an irreverent affair. Plus, with this likeable twosome as the leads and their antics falling into both the shoot-em-up and screwball categories, this really is a film that should appeal to absolutely everyone. DRAMA Who said the French were the only ones that could make Paris-set romantic comedies? Aussie writer, director and star Sophie Mathisen tries her hand at a relationship drama set in the city of love, playing a struggling actress pining after her ex while worrying about her future. That might sound like a conventional tale, but given the film's atypical off-screen story, we're guessing it'll prove anything but. At a time when the Australian screen industry is finally thinking about gender equality, Mathisen is leading the charge, ensuring 50 percent of her movie's crew were women. MUSTANG We've been raving about this Turkish movie since last year, but with good reason. First-time filmmaker Deniz Gamze Ergüven tells the tale of five sisters struggling with their strict family's expectations — particularly their uncle's determination to marry them all off — and finally driven to do something about it. If you missed Mustang at November's Brisbane Asia Pacific Film Festival, don't make the same mistake twice. And if you're wondering why it sounds familiar, other than effusive enthusiasm and its seeming narrative similarities to The Virgin Suicides, that's probably because the feature was nominated for best foreign language film at this year's Academy Awards. The Gold Coast Film Festival runs from March 31 to April 10 at the Gold Coast Arts Centre and Birch Carroll and Coyle Coolangatta. Visit the festival website for the full program.
The clocks have ticked forward, and we all know what that means: the outdoor cinema season is almost here. Movie lovers in Brisbane are spoiled for choice when it comes to openair screens — and from the looks of things that doesn't appear to be changing any time soon. Following on from Moonlight Cinema's announcement of their 2016/17 program, Sunset Cinema is the city's latest pop-up picture house — and we can't wait to check it out. Sunset ran outdoor cinemas in North Sydney, Canberra and Wollongong last year, but this is their first Queensland venture. Located at the Mt Coo-tha Botanic Gardens, Sunset Cinema kicks off on Friday, March 17, before running Wednesdays through Saturdays until April 15. The program skews towards more recent films including Captain Fantastic, The Magnificent Seven, Bridget Jones's Baby and The Girl on the Train, although they have squeezed one retro title in there: Dirty Dancing. They've also put together a top-notch food and beverage offering, in order to keep your stomach from grumbling during the film. They'll set up a snack bar and the site will have a fully licensed bar, serving 4 Pines craft beers and MadFish wines. For more information about Sunset Cinema, including the full program, visit sunsetcinema.com.au/brisbane.
Everybody loves bacon, at least as far as Brisbane's latest eatery is concerned. With a name like B'coz Bacon, their devotion to everyone's favourite pork product is hardly surprising. This new restaurant's moniker also cancels out the need to ask why they're dedicating their business to Homer Simpson's magical animal. Indeed, their menu might only boast three items so far, but they've all got one mouthwatering, meaty thing in common. Maybe you like your bacon covered in breadcrumbs, then served on sourdough with rocket, avocado, mayonnaise and tomato? Perhaps you want it ground into a beef patty, placed on a brioche bun with lettuce, tomato, pickles, cheese, caramelised onions and special sauce, and then topped with more bacon? Or turned into dust and sprinkled all over a plate of hand-cut herb and parmesan-coated chips? If so, you're in luck — well, you will be once B'coz Bacon starts trading that is. After a period of taste testing and conjuring up their delicious-sounding dishes, they're now in the building phase. Expect to see them inhabiting a mobile shipping container and popping up at markets around the city in the coming weeks. For more information about B'coz Bacon, keep an eye on their Facebook page.
It's one of the most popular podcasts in the world, and one that has educated listeners on topics from the inner workings of waterslides to the ingredients that make up Spam. Now, Stuff You Should Know is coming to Brisbane for the first time. Josh Clark and Chuck Bryant are the hosts of the research-based, general knowledge podcast. The pair became friends while working at HowStuffWorks.com and created the podcast as an attempt to repackage some of the website's most popular content. So far they've recorded episodes on everything from disco to the time when Nazis invaded Florida in WWII; wonky stuff like trickle-down economics and voter suppression; science-y topics like the sun, global warming, bioluminescence and willpower; and totally random topics you'd never think could be interesting, like grass, zoot suits and shotgun houses. Since 2014, Josh and Chuck have taken the Stuff You Should Know live show on the road to cities across the US, Canada, the UK and Ireland. Like the podcast, the live experience bundles up learning with laughter. Expect to witness a never-heard-before episode unfold in real time.
The balmy season's about to kick off on a ridiculously blissful foot, with Tame Impala announcing a huge national tour this morning, hitting some of Australia's biggest outdoor venues this November. Following one widely celebrated comeback set at this year's Splendour in the Grass, Perth's favourite psychedelic outfit are doing an epic tour through Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide and back to their Perth hometown. Tame brain and frontman Kevin Parker will be teaming up with Dom Simper, Cam Avery, Jay Watson and Julien Barbagello to bring the insanely successful new album Currents to venues like the Sydney Opera House Forecourt, Melbourne's epic Sidney Myer Music Bowl and the Brisbane Riverstage. Such big outdoor shows deserve one heck of a support, and you'll get it in Mini Mansions (Queens of the Stone Age bass player Michael Shuman's side project). Tame Impala will also be joined by Fremantle's seven-piece hip hop outfit Koi Child for the Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth shows. TAME IMPALA 2015 NATIONAL TOUR DATES: Saturday, November 7 — Sidney Myer Music Bowl, Melbourne Tuesday, November 10 — Sydney Opera House Forecourt, Sydney Wednesday, November 11 — Sydney Opera House Forecourt, Sydney Saturday, November 14 — Belvoir Amphitheatre, Perth Wednesday. November 18 — Thebarton Theatre, Adelaide Saturday. November 21 — Riverstage, Brisbane Tickets on sale Monday 31 August, 9am local time, from tameimpala.com. Image: Matt Sav.
It's only been running since 2013, but the British Film Festival has achieved something most other fests can only dream of. In four short years, it has become the must-attend movie event brightening up cinema screens as the year comes to an end — and if you've been to one of the previous festivals, you'll know that it's always busy. Kicking off in Brisbane on October 27 and making its way around the country, the 2016 instalment promises another jam-packed year of Old Blighty's movie delights. From opening night's real-life love story A United Kingdom to the spirit-soaked comedy hijinks of Whisky Galore — and including a doco about a man determined to swipe Banksy's street art, the latest film from the director of the glorious Sunset Song, and a chance to see the likes of Goldfinger, Highlander and Oliver! on a big screen as well — the 2016 fest has it all. We recommend grabbing a Pimm's cup, munching on some jam-smothered scones, and adding these five must-see flicks to your viewing list. I, DANIEL BLAKE Only eight filmmakers have won Cannes Film Festival's coveted Palme d'Or more than once — and after nearly fifty years of making movies, the now-80-year-old director Ken Loach has become one of them. His latest feature, I, Daniel Blake, showcases just what the veteran does best: craft social realist dramas that get to the heart of British life. Starring English comedian Dave Johns alongside A Royal Night Out actress Hayley Squires, the film follows the titular character's attempts to obtain government support following a spate of health troubles, as well as the similar situation faced by a young single mother. Loach dissects the bureaucracy that comes with their predicament, resulting in an effort that's been called his angriest to date. It's must-see viewing. A MONSTER CALLS Things have been pretty hectic for Felicity Jones of late. She's currently running around Europe with Tom Hanks in Inferno, and will soon travel to a galaxy far, far away as the lead in forthcoming Star Wars side-story Rogue One. And, playing a mother with terminal cancer, she's also the reason that a young boy befriends a tree-shaped, Liam Neeson-voiced giant in A Monster Calls. Directed by The Orphanage and The Impossible's J.A. Bayona, the film adaptation of the beloved book promises to be that other kind of creature feature — you know, the heart-warming, spell-binding, moving and magical kind. OASIS: SUPERSONIC This one will have music doco lovers — and fans of the bad boy Britpop rockers who catapulted to fame, said they were bigger than The Beatles, and got into a top-of-the-charts tussle with Blur — rejoicing. Yep, Oasis made us wonder about champagne supernovas in the sky, asked "what's the story, morning glory?", and probably inspired you to call someone your wonderwall — however, they haven't received the comprehensive documentary treatment until now. Trust Amy filmmaker Asif Kapadia to be involved (though he's just an executive producer this time), with Sex & Drugs & Rock & Roll's Mat Whitecross actually in the director's chair. You'll also spot the Gallagher brothers' names among the EP list, but that doesn't mean the doco presents a sanitised version of the band's tumultuous career. Noel and Liam have well and truly proven that they like a bit of drama, after all. TRESPASS AGAINST US In Trespass Against Us, Michael Fassbender plays a caravan-dwelling father and small-time crim who can't find his way away from his own not-so-positive paternal influence, who's played by Brendan Gleeson. Yep, the movie clearly delivers in terms of both casting and an intriguing tale — and then there's the behind-the-scenes talent. Filmmaker Adam Smith hasn't actually made a feature before, but the Skins veteran is known for his work with the Chemical Brothers — in fact, he has designed the visual elements for their gigs since their first show back in 1994, and also directed their stellar concert flick Don't Think. That's obviously why the electronic music legends are involved as well, lending their distinctive sonic stylings to the film's score. And yes, their first such effort since 2011's Hanna sounds amazing as expected. THE MAN WHO FELL TO EARTH Has ever a film's title described its star so perfectly? Has a performer ever been so accurately cast in a movie? We can only be talking about one feature and one musician-turned-actor, of course — and with David Bowie's passing in January, the British Film Festival is giving everyone the opportunity to see one of the big-screen highlights of his career. Playing the literally otherworldly Thomas Jerome Newton, Bowie really is a starman in this gorgeously restored version of the sci-fi classic. It's the role he was born to play, in a movie that's as astonishing today as it was when it was first released 40 years ago. The 2016 BBC First British Film Festival will be screening at Brisbane's Palace Barracks from Thursday, October 27 to Wednesday, November 16. For more information and the full program, visit britishfilmfestival.com.au.
Brisbane movie buffs, prepare to spend even more time at the movies, because the 2016 film festival season is about to officially commence. Brisbane Queer Film Festival is one of the first cabs off the rank, and they've unleashed an 11-day program brimming with cinematic excitement. It is their 17th year, after all. BQFF 2016 gets things started with not one but two high-profile retrospective screenings, because film festivals are about looking back at those great movies from times gone by just as much as showcasing new cinema treats from around the world. Leading the lineup is opening night's '70s-set disco wonder 54: The Director's Cut — aka the Ryan Phillippe, Neve Campbell, Salma Hayek and Mike Myers movie done the way filmmaker Mark Christopher originally intended. And as a sneak peek of the program the day before the official kick-off, the fest is showcasing Fred Schepisi's controversial The Devil's Playground to commemorate its 40th anniversary, complete with star Simon Burke in attendance. On the fresh flicks front, BQFF boasts local and international festival faves such as the Lily Tomlin-starring comedy Grandma, Sundance 2015 best director winner The Summer of Sangaile, Aussie surf fare Drown and Peter Greenaway's Eisenstein in Guanajuato. Everyone who was moved to tears by Holding the Man should bring tissues to documentary Remembering the Man, which similarly revisits the heart-wrenching tale of Tim Conigrave and John Caleo. The rest of the packed lineup includes everything from Berlinale Teddy award-winning doco The New Man to Swedish supernatural body swap effort Girls Lost. Yes, it's all shaping up to be yet another great of queer cinema; however not everything at BQFF 2016 adheres to the business-as-usual model. This year, the film-focused companion event to Brisbane Powerhouse's MELT continues its game of musical chairs, having moved from Brisbane Powerhouse to Palace Centro in 2015, and now taking place at New Farm Cinemas. That's not really all that surprising; in the last six months, the Brunswick Street theatre has played host to the Queensland Film Festival, the Iranian Film Festival Australia, the Indian International Film Festival of Queensland, the Jewish International Film Festival and the Brisbane Asia Pacific Film Festival, among others, with the Brisbane Underground Film Festival also due to call the venue home this February. Brisbane Queer Film Festival 2016 runs from February 18 – 28 at New Farm Cinemas. For more information, visit their website.
When a laneway boasts a pub, bar, bistro, pizzeria and beer cafe — and will soon play host to Brisbane's only Gelato Messina store — it's the kind of place you want to spend plenty of time in. And whether you've been hanging around South Brisbane's Fish Lane already, or you're planning to in the future, here's another reason to stop by: they're throwing their own free festival. That'd be the aptly titled Fish Lane Festival on May 7, which promises to showcase all of the food and drink options the stretch of road between Merivale and Grey streets is known for, plus a few other nearby favourites as well. Satisfying your hunger and thirst isn't the only thing on the agenda, though. Two stages of live music will also feature among the gourmet eats, signature dishes, and craft cocktail beer and wine bar pop-ups, complete with tunes by Reece Freeman, Franky Smart, Groove or Die, Soulergy Music and Parasol. Trust the folks from The Fox Hotel to be behind the fun; they are the laneway's most prominent hangout, and one of its longest-standing hotspots, after all. They'll be joined by Billy Kart Kitchen, Birds Nest Restaurant, Fish Lane Bistro, Gauge, Habitat Restaurant & Bar, Julius Pizzeria, Madame Wu, Maker, Saccharomyces Beer Cafe and The Gunshop Cafe. And, gelato fans, Gelato Messina will be making a pop-up appearance ahead of their much-anticipated October opening. Not only does it sound like a great day out, but it's also the kind of party that wasn't possible even a decade ago. Remember when Brisbane didn't have thriving nooks and crannies like this? Yes, we're choosing not to, too; however Fish Lane Festival proves a very fitting celebration of the city's blossoming laneway culture. Fish Lane Festival takes place from 12pm on May 7. For more information, visit the festival's Facebook page. Image: Dana Newman for Gelato Messina, coming soon to Fish Lane.
There's a brand new festival coming to New South Wales, sporting a mini-Meredith lineup, an outdoor cinema and an independent record market. Plus, it's in one of Australia's prettiest coastal towns. Fairgrounds is Australia's newest boutique music festival, coming to the NSW town of Berry this December. It's just two hours out of Sydney on the south coast, so one easy peasy road trip. Pioneered by Handsome Tours, the shiny new festival fuses local food, boutique beverages, markets, movies and music in one sweet-sounding event. Taking cues from the recently-announced Meredith lineup, Fairgrounds' folk, pop and garage-focused lineup will see LA-based crooner Father John Misty headline, with Brooklyn glitchy duo RATATAT and dream pop legends Mercury Rev at the top. San Francisco's quirky characters Unknown Mortal Orchestra will be there, alongside folk-rocker Jessica Pratt, Sydney's immortal Royal Headache and the gospel dancehall blues of C.W. Stoneking. While music is your main drawcard to most festivals, Fairgrounds has given more weight to the in-between elements than many festivals do. Foodies will find a gastronomical paradise at the event, with wines and local nibbles sourced from neighbouring estates. There'll be markets and field games — sounds like someone enjoyed Secret Garden Festival — and the best bit? There'll be an outdoor cinema: Fairgrounds' Cinema Under the Stars, presented by Madman Films. FAIRGROUNDS 2015 LINE-UP (SO FAR): C.W. Stoneking Father John Misty Jessica Pratt Mercury Rev RATATAT Royal Headache Unknown Mortal Orchestra Fairgrounds Festival is happening on Saturday, December 5 in Berry, NSW. Earlybird 'Fairgrounds Founder' tickets are $110 and go on sale on Thursday 20 August at fairgrounds.com.au and moshtix.com.au. Kids under 12 enter the festival for free. You can choose to stay offsite in a B&B, or Fairgrounds offers in-site camping. Image: Dollar Photo Club.
It's the gloriously bready circular snack that's been taking over Brisbane one market at a time — and nope, it's not doughnuts (for once). From August 20, one of Brisbane's favourite bagel sellers is setting up a new store right in the heart of West End. Schmears all round. Of course, if you've frequented NYC Bagel Deli's Chermside shop or dropped into their space in The Market Room at Logan, then you'll know that this isn't their first bricks-and-mortar establishment. And if you've flocked to Davies Park on a Saturday morning to get your fix, you'll know their permanent Vulture Street digs aren't their first foray into the inner-city suburb either. That said, knowing that you can grab one of their freshly made sandwiches any time the craving hits — and just a stone's throw away from the CBD, too — was always going to be welcome news. Did we mention that you can pick from 12 kinds of bagel, ranging from plain to jalapeno to blueberry? Or that fillings include grilled haloumi, the BRAT with bacon, rocket, avocado and tomato, and honey and maple cream cheese? Yep, those bagel cravings will be ramping up soon. Expect new flavours to join the fold at the new setup, which is reason enough to head along more than once. And if you live on the west or north sides of town and have made a Sunday morning bite part of your weekend routine, don't worry. NYC Bagel Deli will continue to pop up at the Milton and Eagle Farm markets as well. Find NYC Bagel Deli at Vulture Street, West End from August 20. Check out their website and Facebook page for further information.
The One Day crew is hitting the road, bringing their famous daytime block parties to live music venues around Australia. Between the end of October and the week before Christmas, DJs from the beloved Sydney hip hop collective will bounce from coast to coast, stopping by a dozen capital cities and country towns along the way. Taking its cue from the group's massive monthly blowouts in Sydney, the One Day Block Party National Tour will see the One Day crew team up with local DJs and artists as they roll through pub, beer gardens, courtyards and car parks. Expect food and booze, live graffiti and a whole bunch of hip hop. The tour will start on October 29 in Adelaide before rolling through WA, Queensland, NSW and Victoria, finally wrapping up in the nation's capital on December 18. ONE DAY BLOCK PARTY NATIONAL TOUR Saturday 29th October – The Ed Castle, Adelaide Sunday 30th October – The Rosemount, Perth Saturday 12th November – Kirwan Tavern, Townsville Sunday 13th November – Magnum's, Airlie Beach Saturday 19th November – Miami Tavern, Gold Coast Sunday 20th November – Ric's Backyard, Brisbane Saturday 26th November – The Rosemount, Perth Sunday 27th November – Dunsborough Tavern, Dunsborough Saturday 10th December – Cambridge Hotel, Newcastle Sunday 11th December – Beer Deluxe, Albury Saturday 17th December – Proud Mary's, Erina Sunday 18th December – Westside Village, Canberra To book tickets, visit www.onedayblockparty.com.
It's never too cold for ice cream, right? Thankfully, that's certainly the case in Brisbane. Here, a new gelato place can open in the middle of winter and no one bats an eyelid. Where else but Queensland indeed. Nom Nom Natural Gelato is the family-owned store in question, bringing 18 flavours of deliciousness to Oxford Street — and that's just the beginning. Those fond of sweet, frozen dairy treats best flock to Bulimba for the latest taste sensation — and if their menu is anything to go by, it's a trip worth making. Combining Maleny dairy milk and cream with the best ingredients, the nomworthy range includes all the usual suspects. Think Belgium chocolate with or without orange or coffee, Madagascar vanilla bean plus optional salted caramel sauce, as well as fruity servings of blueberry and strawberry. But it's the not-so-usual flavours that should get gelato lovers excited, courtesy of a few housemade blends. First, there's the pistachio, almond and cashew concoctions made with 100 percent real nut paste. Then there's the cheesecake, apple pie and gingerbread varieties. And don't forget fresh mint with chocolate chips, green tea and fresh lemon, banana and cinnamon, and coconut with shreds, too. Gluten-free, lactose-free and vegetarian recipes are still to come, so those with dietary requirements can soon join in the fun. And for anyone in need of a caffeine fix with their sugar hit, Nom Nom Natural Gelato also boasts a variety of Abrisca cold presses. They're garnering nom noms in more ways than one. Find Nom Nom Natural Gelato at 139 Oxford Street, Bulimba or visit their Facebook page.
They've been filling Sydneysiders' stomachs with amazing Italian meals for years, but it seems Otto Ristorante seek more northern palates. After conquering the New South Wales fine dining scene, the Woolloomooloo mainstay is expanding their footprint. Next stop: Brisbane. Come mid-June, Queenslanders can head to 480 Queen Street to enjoy the eatery's modern take on Italian classics — and no, we're not just talking about the usual pizza and pasta set-up. Instead, you'll find Byron Bay Berkshire pork cutlets, eggplant parmigiana and corn-fed chicken breast wrapped in pancetta on the menu, plus a seven-dish tasting menu with optional matching beverages. Okay, so that all sounds good and delicious, but whether you eat meat or avoid it, your salivating is only beginning. Otto's signature whole roasted suckling pig for eight will keep the former satisfied, while their new vegan lineup caters for the latter. And there's a mighty nice wine list to go along with both, naturally. That's the food and drink side of the equation covered; however Otto isn't just about consuming scrumptious things. Setting up shop on the fourth level of one the Brissie CBD's most-awaited developments, it'll also feature an exterior bar with killer river views, and have access to the building's high-rise park. Yep, their morsels won't just make your mouth water — they'll come with multiple views. Find Otto Ristorante Brisbane at 480 Queen Street from mid-June. Keep an eye on their website and Facebook page for more information.
Hungry musicians doing it tough on tour, prepare to satisfy your appetites. All it takes is a stopover in Brisbane for a gig, and a trip to a certain Fortitude Valley café. That'd be LostBoys, the new saviour of starving artists visiting sunny climates. The Ann Street establishment isn't just largely staffed by those handy with a guitar, drum kit or microphone, but wants to support them too. That's why they've taken it upon themselves to offer a solution to the scourge of musos everywhere: barely making enough money to eat while they're away from home. Travelling around the country playing live shows might seem like a fun life, but the thrill of taking to the stage is tempered by the not-so-glamorous, not-so-financially-lucrative reality. At LostBoys, musical talent dropping by Brisbane can treat themselves to whatever takes their fancy from the cafe's lineup of 100 percent natural, locally-sourced options. Vegetarians, vegans, dairy free foodies and gluten intolerants, there's something on the menu for you, too. The initiative is a brand new addition to what has fast become one of the area's favourite hangouts — which is no mean feat given that LostBoys only opened in October 2014. Of course, their magic all stems from their name. Trust a Peter Pan-inspired eatery to come up with a wondrous way to help creatives' dreams come true. Via The Music. Visit LostBoys at 694 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley, or check out their website.
Ice cream-style drumstick cones filled with tuna and avocado, prawn doughnuts with kimchi mayo, lobster katsu sandwiches and whole snapper karaage — they're just some of the inventive dishes on the menu at Fortitude Valley's new Japanese restaurant, Hôntô. While Brisbane boasts plenty of Japanese eateries, this addition to Alden Street adds a unique twist to the country's culinary staples, as the above highlights demonstrate. Fancy grilled scallops with wasabi salsa verde, wagyu tartare, rice crackers made with chilli edamame or a few scoops of miso ice cream? They're all part of head chef Nathan Lastevec's creative lineup as well, along with a daily sashimi selection, tuna ceviche and raw scampi. Open from 5.30–10.30pm Tuesday to Saturday, Hôntô comes from a team known for trying something different, with the venue a sister site to Longtime on Ann Street. Basically, where Longtime gives classic Thai cuisine a twist, Hôntô does the same with an exclusively Japanese focus — and with a range of rare Japanese whiskeys and sake to wash it all down with. Indeed, in addition to the main dining room and raw dining bar, the restaurant features its own bar, ÔÔ. Like the rest of the place — which is accessed through a black door next to the loading dock for Matt Blatt Furniture — it's dark and moody, though it has quite the boozy range. As well as the types of tipples you'd expect to find in a particularly well-stocked Tokyo izakaya, there are more than 100 wines, plus cocktails, other spirits, liqueurs and craft beers. And, food-wise, if you're keen to settle in for the long haul in Hôntô's backstreet surroundings, you can also opt for one or two banquets: a ten-dish feast for $55 per person, and a 12-dish version for $70 each. Hôntô is now open from 5.30–10.30pm Tuesday to Saturday at Alden Street, Fortitude Valley. Images: Natalie Hoo and Sam Thies.
You'll scream, we'll scream and everyone in Brisbane will scream in March, when the city's ice cream festival returns for its second year. Once again taking over the new West Village in West End — fittingly, the old Peters Ice Cream Factory — the fest is back with more scoops of frozen goodness than you've likely ever dreamed of, including both old favourites and inventive new creations. In short: if it's a frosty, creamy sweet treat of the ice cream or gelato variety, whether simply piled onto a cone, delightfully smashed into a sandwich or ingeniously fashioned into some other tasty concoction, you'll find it here on March 10. That includes the exciting likes of La Macelleria's pistachio gelato-filled cannoli, Ruby the Little Red Ice Cream Van's Stranger Things-themed soft serve and Chop Chop Chang's serving up Golden Gaytime bao. And, based on last year's lineup, we're guessing everyone from Gelato Messina and Queen of the Pops to Boss Bites and Minus 32 will be there as well. Just what else is in store hasn't been revealed, but attendees can expect more than 20 ice cream-fuelled market stalls to visit, and even a few old-school ice cream van jingles ringing through the air. Live music and boozy frozen beverages were also a part of the 2017 offering, so fingers crossed. And while entry is free once again (although you'll have to pay for your ice cream, obviously), registration is absolutely required. With tickets for the first fest snapped up faster than you can devour your favourite dessert, they're certain to be popular. This year, Brisbane Ice Cream Festival will operate in three timed sessions — from 11am–1pm, 1–3pm, and 3–5pm — with tickets available online from 10am on Tuesday, February 13. Brisbane Ice Cream Festival takes place on March 10 at West Village, 97 Boundary Road, West End. For more information, head to the festival website and Facebook page. Register for your free ticket online at 10am on February 13.
It starts with an encore run of a Helpmann winner, ends with a real-life couple taking on a famous dissection of marriage, and features everything from a play about cinema employees to the world premiere of a lauded and applauded script in between. Yep, it's Queensland Theatre's 2017 season, with the Brisbane-based company championing a diverse lineup under new artistic director Sam Strong — and a diverse makeup behind the scenes. Crowd-favourite Ladies in Black may kickstart the theatre troupe's new year in January, complete with over 20 original songs by Crowded House's Tim Finn, however February is when eager audiences can start flocking to fresh content. Telling a tale of selling popcorn and falling in love with a projectionist, international hit The Flick won the 2014 Pulitzer Prize for drama, and earned rave reviews in London and New York. That the production will be directed by screen veteran Nadia Tass (Malcolm, The Big Steal) feels rather appropriate. Debuting in March, the Kat Henry-directed science-infused romance Constellations similarly looks set to be a standout, as does the Nakkiah Lui-helmed provocative interrogation of identity, An Octoroon, which makes its way to the stage in September. Throughout the rest of the year, other highlights include Strong's farcical first Queensland Theatre directorial effort Noises Off, as well as Michelle Lee's Queensland Premier's Drama Award-winning multicultural exploration Rice. The Torres Strait-set, multi-generational My Name is Jimi also ranks among the season's must-see productions, as does Scenes from a Marriage, with actors Marta Dusseldorp and Ben Winspear tackling relationship issues in Joanna Murray-Smith's adaptation of Ingmar Bergman's television classic. So far, so filled with options — and if it seems like ladies feature prominently in the lineup, that's by design. Indeed, gender parity is one of the newly renamed Queensland Theatre's key commitments for 2017, with their nine shows achieving an even split of male and female writers and directors. To see the full Queensland Theatre 2017 program and to book tickets, visit the Queensland Theatre website.
Whiskey fiends of Brisbane, it's time to add another spot to your citywide bar crawl. Blind Tiger is about to open its doors in Bulimba, not only gifting the riverside suburb with the quaint and quirky speakeasy-style establishment it has always needed, but also treating liquor fans to their favourite beverage thanks to its focus on amber-coloured spirits. Of course, the finest distilled, fermented grain mash-derived alcoholic tipples from around the world aren't the only thing on the Oxford Street dive bar's drinks menu — although there'll be plenty on offer in keeping with the Prohibition theme, don't worry. Its sugarcane-focused counterpart, aka rum, will also feature. So will six taps pouring out tasty, foamy beer, plus a range of boilermakers and a cocktail menu. That's not bad for a tiny space that you could easily fill with two dozen of your closest friends — and with Brisbane bartender Jesse Stowers helping Blind Tiger come up with their complete beverage list, and owner Robert Harding also behind neighbouring men's-only grooming palace The Moustachery Barbery, there's certain to be plenty more goodness in store. For those after a bite to eat with their refreshments, that includes cheeseboards, charcuterie plates, nachos and sliders, all served up amidst an eccentric, antiques-meets-log cabin-style of decor. Find Blind Tiger at 1b/204 Oxford Street, Bulimba from April 29, or check out their Facebook page for more information.
Ever fancied tucking into a po'boy and a pizza at the same restaurant? It's the stuff random food cravings are made of, and it's now a reality. Just follow your tastebuds to Creole Soul Kitchen, Brisbane's first Creole-Italian establishment. Based on a similar place run by owners Marc Lewis and Leena Monson in Vail, Colorado, Creole Soul Kitchen brings a spicy blend of Louisiana and Italian-style delights to Boundary Street in Spring Hill. Think sub-like sandwiches with fried oyster, soft shell crab or roast beef, and doughy bases topped with everything from meatballs to crocodile sausages. Waffle fries, gumbo and salad also feature on the menu, and in the coming weeks, you'll be able to build your own pasta dish — you can pick your choice of sauce, filling and pasta — too. Whichever kind of meal you're after, you'd best schedule your feasting for weekday lunch, because that's when you'll find the eatery's doors open at present. Dinnertime munching is on its way though, as is a selection of wines and beers on tap to complement its current bottled booze offerings. Find Creole Soul Kitchen at 448 Boundary Street, Spring Hill, or visit their Facebook page for more information. Image: Nirzar Pangarkar, Unsplash.
They're the brownies every Brisbanite loves — and rushes to Newstead to devour whenever they get the chance. Soon, these moist, dense, to-die-for morsels won't just be available in one location. Yes, one of the city's favourite dessert makers is bringing their delicious wares to the CBD. We're talking about Dello Mano, of course, and their velvety, chocolatey squares of melt-in-your-mouth goodness. Come early June, prepare to get rather well acquainted with Tattersall's Arcade, because you're about to spend a whole lot of time at the new Dello Mano store there. Die-hard brownie devotees — aka everyone who has tried their artisanal efforts — won't need any more convincing than that, but let's try to get your stomach grumbling anyway. Their luxury handmade offerings were inspired by a trip to Rome, gained attention at local markets, and come in classic, honey caramelised macadamia, peanut butter, nut assortment and gluten-free varieties. You'll also find cakes, tarts, truffles, fudge, chocolates and cookies on their menu too, because Dello Mano really do believe in spreading the gourmet bakery love. You'll never be stuck without a sweet inner-city treat ever again. Hanging out in Tatts waiting for the new shop to open is completely acceptable. Find Dello Mano in Tattersall's Arcade, 215 Queen Street, Brisbane, from early June. Keep an eye on their website and Facebook page for more information.
The Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) is on the verge of a massive expansion, with founder David Walsh announcing his vision for an epic five-star hotel — among other things — on the site of the iconic Hobart gallery. The Hotel at MONA — or HOMO for short — has been described as the next phase of growth for the museum, which, since opening in 2011, has become one of Tasmania's biggest draws. "It's very simple really. We like building stuff," said Walsh. "So far it has gone pretty well for us." Pretty well is a bit of an understatement, with the gallery's citywide winter festival, Dark MOFO, having just wrapped up quite possibly its most successful and most talked about instalment so far. Walsh's HOMO announcement is well-timed — and, it must be noted, these plans are by no means approved, as they haven't yet been submitted to MONA's local city council — but what exactly can visitors (and locals) expect from the proposed addition to the Berridale site? And what other changes do Walsh and co. have up their sleeves? Well, a lot. We've broken in down so you can begin to understand what is going on in Walsh's brain. [caption id="attachment_628671" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Fender Katsalidis Architects.[/caption] A HUGE NEW HOTEL The hotel will be built on the museum's current site in Berridale. With rooms elevated over the Derwent River, the design has been based on San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge flipped upside down.HOMO will consist of 172 rooms, including a number of special 'experience' rooms developed by a selection of internationally renowned artists. Rooms facing the northeast will enjoy a view of Kunanyi/Mount Wellington, while rooms facing southeast will look up the river towards Claremont and Otago Bay. It looks nuts. [caption id="attachment_628672" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Fender Katsalidis Architects[/caption] AN AMPHITHEATRE The hotel will also house a three-storey library to house Walsh's collection of rare books and manuscripts and an indoor theatre with seating for over 1000 people. Most notably, there will also be an outdoor stage and amphitheatre complete with playground designed by textile artist Toshiko Horiuchi MacAdam. A restaurant, conference centre and spa will also be on-site. [caption id="attachment_628674" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Rémi Chauvin.[/caption] A MOVE FOR MONA FOMA In related news, MONA is also planning to move the Festival of Music and Art (FOMA) from Hobart to Launceston. "The festival's original ten-year plan — to change the culture in Hobart — has come to fruition ahead of schedule," said FOMA creative director Brian Richie. "We'd like to embark upon a new creative journey - to relocate to Launceston in search of new challenges, new collaborations, fresh partnerships and novel creative models." MONA has requested funding from the State Government to do this. [caption id="attachment_628675" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Fender Katsalidis Architects.[/caption] AN ART 'ANTI-CASINO' Perhaps the most intriguing element is 'Monaco', a private, high-limit, pokies-free 'anti-casino' that will double as an outlet for art and design. We're really not sure what this means, but that's probably the point. [caption id="attachment_628676" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Fender Katsalidis Architects.[/caption] WHEN WILL IT ALL HAPPEN? Construction is expected to take approximately three years — although the start date could still a while away as the hotel's development plans are yet to be submitted to Glenorchy City Council. A "comprehensive consultation process" with the public will also be held. MONA hopes to start building in 2019 for an opening in early 2022. For what it's worth though, State Premier Will Hodgman seems keen on the project, telling reporters that "I think whatever comes out via Mona and David Walsh is always worth listening to." We'll keep an eye on this one. Top image: Fender Katsalidis Architects.
Bingo. Rave. Two ends of the spectrum of fine holiday fun and finally — finally — together as one. Bongo's Bingo is a games night like you've never seen before. Part club, part rave, and, of course, part bingo night, this unlikely fusion event has been wildly popular in the UK since 2015. Now, they're taking the show on the road and launching in Australia this June. In partnership with Wats On Events, Bongo's Bingo Down Under is throwing a massive bingo rave at The Tivoli in Brisbane's Fortitude Valley on June 30, after Sydney's Paddington Town Hall and Melbourne's Collingwood Town Hall. Patrons can expect all of the debauchery of the original British version of Bongo's Bingo, including rave intervals, dancing on tables and a loose kind of bingo that you definitely never played with your nan (well, maybe you have). The victorious players can win everything from big cash prizes to a Hills Hoist, with a range of some absolutely ridiculous surprises on offer. The Brisbane launch event will be presided over by founder and comic ringleader Jonny Bongo who, as one would expect, is a character in the truest sense of the word and even holds the world record for the biggest ever pub quiz. Australia is the second international location for Bongo's Bingo, which recently launched in Dubai as well and, based on popularity, we imagine the event will continue to expand around the globe. Venues, guest lineup and DJ hosts will be announced in coming weeks, and tickets will go on sale Wednesday, May 31 at 6pm. Keep an eye on this space for further updates and brush up on those bingo-break down skills in the meantime. Bongo's Bingo will hit Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney in June. For more information and to buy tickets, visit bongosbingodownunder.com.au.
First, the bad news: Brewsvegas, Brisbane's annual celebration of beverages, doesn't take place until March. Now, the good news: once again, they're getting into the early swing of things at the ideal summer event for those who like to cool off with both a beer and a swim. Say hello to the Great Brewsvegas Pool Party, aka the get-together that wants to amp up your excitement not once, but twice. The festival's 2018 lineup has already been revealed, but there's plenty to celebrate — and descending upon Ithaca Pool ready for an evening of splashing about is certain to get you pumped as well. Tickets to the pre-fest shindig cost $10, and include a program and a glass of the official Stone & Wood Brewsvegas beer for the year, with all proceeds going to OzHarvest Brisbane. For added merriment, surf rock band The Wet Fish will crank out the on-theme tunes, there'll be an onsite food truck serving up festive eats and extra brews will be on tap.
The One Day crew is hitting the road, bringing their famous daytime block parties to live music venues around Australia. Between the end of October and the week before Christmas, DJs from the beloved Sydney hip hop collective will bounce from coast to coast, stopping by a dozen capital cities and country towns along the way. Taking its cue from the group's massive monthly blowouts in Sydney, the One Day Block Party National Tour will see the One Day crew team up with local DJs and artists as they roll through pub, beer gardens, courtyards and car parks. Expect food and booze, live graffiti and a whole bunch of hip hop. The tour will start on October 29 in Adelaide before rolling through WA, Queensland, NSW and Victoria, finally wrapping up in the nation's capital on December 18. ONE DAY BLOCK PARTY NATIONAL TOUR Saturday 29th October – The Ed Castle, Adelaide Sunday 30th October – The Rosemount, Perth Saturday 12th November – Kirwan Tavern, Townsville Sunday 13th November – Magnum's, Airlie Beach Saturday 19th November – Miami Tavern, Gold Coast Sunday 20th November – Ric's Backyard, Brisbane Saturday 26th November – The Rosemount, Perth Sunday 27th November – Dunsborough Tavern, Dunsborough Saturday 10th December – Cambridge Hotel, Newcastle Sunday 11th December – Beer Deluxe, Albury Saturday 17th December – Proud Mary's, Erina Sunday 18th December – Westside Village, Canberra To book tickets, visit www.onedayblockparty.com.
Getting down to your local for a nice cold beer is now as easy as pushing a button. As part of a new marketing campaign, Czech beer company Kozel has devised the Tap Out button, which when pressed will summon a taxi to ferry you to the nearest pub. Could this be the greatest scientific innovation of the modern age? Until Dominoes rolls out that pizza robot of theirs, we reckon it might just be. The buttons, of which there are three, will be made available via twitter. All beer lovers need to do is mention a mate and use the hashtag #PushforPub, and they could soon be on their way to the closest establishment that serves Kozel. What's more, there'll be two pints waiting for them on arrival. Pretty crafty. The button is good for three uses, at which point it presumably self-destructs, Mission: Impossible-style. Now the bad news: for the time being at least, the Tap Out buttons are only available in the UK, although according to PSFK, there's a chance more will be made available if the initial campaign is successful. And frankly, how could it not be. Rest assured, we'll let you know if they make it down to our part of the world. Until then, it looks like you're stuck with walking. https://vimeo.com/175340774 Via PSFK.
Yeah, yeah, so Meghan Trainor spent X weeks at the top of the charts with her multiplatinum mega-single and No 1. album at only 22 years old. Yeah, good. We're pretty set to continue burling 'ROBBED!' for a good few hours after Australia's Courtney Barnett just missed out on her first Grammy award for Best New Artist, with the 'All About That Bass' artist nabbing the gong. But the Melburnian/Hobartian won the live blogging for the event, taking over Tumblr's music page for the day. Apart from Kendrick Lamar rightly dominating errrrthing, Lady Gaga's Bowie tribute and Pharrell's quaint Chanel jacket, Barnett's quiet blogging stole the show for us. Takin' mad selfie GIFs before the show: http://music.tumblr.com/post/139381160531/just-me-and-then-dave-and-then-bones Rockin' the outfit we'd want to wear to the Grammys: http://music.tumblr.com/post/139388982451/me-on-the-red-carpet Waiting for Swifty and Selena to wrap up: http://music.tumblr.com/post/139390159691/taylor-and-selena-in-front-of-me-nbd Before and after-ing on the red carpet. http://music.tumblr.com/post/139390666806/pre-red-carpet-post-red-carpet-we-did-it Scoping out after-Grammy tacos: http://music.tumblr.com/post/139405254176/hanging-with-my-awesome-tour-manager-hook-waiting Go check it out here. What a boss.
Ask a Brisbanite about their favourite ice cream, and they'll likely tell you about a treat that's only available for a brief period every year. That'd be the iconic strawberry sundaes served at the Ekka — or reason enough to brave the flu-riddled crowds if rides and showbags aren't quite your thing. Lick! Ice Cream clearly feel the same end-of-August sundae-less pain as the bulk of the city's population, and while they can't offer up the Ekka exclusive all year round, they can provide the next best thing. Enter an idea as brilliant as it is tasty. After 11 years in operation, the dessert company is opening a flagship store in Graceville and making strawberry ice cream a permanent feature of their menu. Come early November, everyone can head to Honour Avenue for Lick!'s cream of the ice cream crop — and for a two-for-one bonus on opening weekend, too. Other things will be on offer, of course, in a rotating range that will span 18 flavours and also includes sorbet, in case anyone gets sick of all things strawberry. The chances of that are slim, though. For those tempted to try something other than their strawberry flavour, macadamia praline, Oreo cookie and rum and raisin certainly whet the appetite, as do the likes of the less commonly seen salted peanut and Redskin. And then there's a concoction that sounds so delicious that we can't quite think of a name for it. What do you call a housemade doughnut/waffle hybrid? Find Lick! Ice Cream on Honour Avenue, Graceville from November 4, and enjoy the 2-for-1 deal from November 7. For more information, check out their website and Facebook page. Image: The Ekka.
Can you feel a tingling in your toes as your feet start to defrost? That's the feeling of winter slipping away (or maybe you've been sitting cross-legged for too long) and with its demise comes the return of Australia's beloved Moonlight Cinema. Ahhh balmy nights on the grass, we have missed you. Heralding the coming of the warmer months, Moonlight Cinema is a summertime tradition and it always nails the balance between new releases and cult classics. The film program is yet to be announced, but we'll keep you updated as soon as it is. Nosh-wise, Moonlight Cinema will again let you BYO movie snacks and drinks, but the unorganised can also chow down on a plethora of US style food trucks — the perfect, messy treat made for reclining on bean beds. Bean beds and snack trucks, is there anything better? This season includes screens in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane and Perth, running from November through to March. Get your pens out and jot down these dates. MOONLIGHT CINEMA 2018 DATES: Sydney: Nov 29–Mar 31 (Belvedere Amphitheatre in Centennial Park) Melbourne: Nov 29–Mar 31 (Central Lawn at the Royal Botanic Gardens) Brisbane: Nov 29–Mar 31 (Roma Street Parkland) Perth: Dec 1–Mar 31 (May Drive Parkland, Kings Park & Botanic Garden) Adelaide: Dec 8–Feb 17 (Botanic Park) The Moonlight Cinema kicks off on November 29. For more information and bookings here.
These days it seems like just about anywhere can be a cinema. Rooftop viewing is all the rage, drive-ins are popping up all over the place, and even local bars is getting in on the action. But that's only the beginning. Come April in Brisbane, film buffs will be getting locked up for their movie fix. No, going to the movies isn't being outlawed. Instead, cult film guru Kristian Fletcher has put together yet another must-attend event. This time, he's hosting a brand new movie night at Boggo Road Gaol. With a "when in Rome" attitude, Fletcher's regular program will serve up prison films in a prison setting – because flicks about roaming free in wide open spaces really wouldn't work, would they? First cab off the rank is The Great Escape on April 29, followed by 80's classic Brubaker and the Coen brothers' Miller's Crossing. And if you're wondering why we haven't mentioned The Shawshank Redemption yet, don't worry. Of course it will also grace Boggo Road's big screen. Each movie will start at 7:30pm, although anyone after more than just a film is encouraged to arrive an hour earlier. That way you can take an ex-prisoner tour, browse the markets, and peruse the jail art show. Our tip: BYO Rita Hayworth poster if you think you might want to tunnel out of there during the evening. Prison Movie Nights at Boggo Road Gaol kick off on April 29. Tickets will be $15 per film, or $35 for a film and tour combo. For more information keep your eyes on the Boggo Road Gaol website.
If you like reading, writing, talking or slinging about language in some other form, then you probably already have the 2016 Brisbane Writers Festival scheduled in your diary. Prepare for words, glorious words from September 7 to 11. When it comes to events celebrating the written craft in Brissie, only the annual Lifeline Bookfest comes close to this feast of everything from prose to poetry to penning tell-all novels. Here, the pen is definitely mightier than the sword — and much more interesting too, given the array of topics touched upon at BWF 2016. And given that choosing between dissecting crime fiction, exploring the art of reading, learning how to write your own cookbook and diving into supernatural stories can be difficult, here's our five top picks from the hefty letter-focused fest program.
When we take that first sip of our barista-brewed coffee on a workday morning, a lot of us can't actually imagine living without coffee. But what about living without a roof over your head or a guaranteed meal? Unfortunately, this is what many homeless people around Australia face each day, but on Friday, August 7, you can help your fellow Aussies out simply by buying a coffee as part of CafeSmart. CafeSmart is an annual event from StreetSmart that raises money and awareness for the homeless and is back for its third year running. Last year, 415 cafes and 20 coffee roasters raised $120,000 to fund 91 community projects. Not too shabby. So how does it work? From every coffee purchased on August 7 at a participating cafe around Australia, $1 will be donated towards local projects. So if your go-to local isn't participating, shake things up for a day and head to one that is. Prefer a hot chocolate? You can also donate at the counter. Simply by aiming for a bighearted cafe, you'll be helping some of our country's most in-need humans, so treat yourself to a third or fourth coffee guilt-free. Look for cafés posting this little guy today. @StreetSmartAust gives $1 from your coffee to help the homeless. #CafeSmart #drinkcoffeedogood A photo posted by Concrete Playground Sydney (@concreteplayground) on Aug 7, 2014 at 9:02pm PDT CafeSmart is happening around the country on Friday, August 7. Check the website for participating cafes near you. Image: Dollar Photo Club.
Brisbanites, that sense of superiority we've had recently about our later bar closing times is about to come to an end. When New South Wales implemented its last round of lockout laws and curfews, partying in the sunshine state seemed like the better alternative. Alas, it wasn't meant to last. The new Labor Government is forging ahead with one of their election promises: amending the legislation surrounding the service of alcohol. Brisbane Times is reporting that it is now a matter of when, not if, a host of new rules will change Queensland's nightlife scene for the foreseeable future. The bad news: expect calls for last drinks to come earlier, and for everyone to huddle in their one bar of choice if they're staying out late. 1am lockout cut-offs will introduced into pubs and clubs, shots will be banned after midnight, and 3am will be when everyone has to call it a night. That's a whole two hours two hours earlier than current cutoff and closing times, and the most significant change since 3am lockouts were introduced to Queensland in 2005. The good news, for now, is that a date has yet to be set for when the new scheme to come into effect. The government's plan is an attempt to tackle alcohol-fuelled violence, an ambition that no one can really argue with. But the question is: will making everyone pack more fun into fewer hours achieve that aim? Via Brisbane Times. Image: Flying Cock, Fortitude Valley.
Happy damn Friday. Friend to the high note and monarch of mindfuck music videos FKA twigs has chucked a Beyonce and dropped a surprise EP this morning, along with a trippy 16-minute film. Titled M3LL155X, the five-song EP is available from today through Young Turks, after twigs shared new tracks 'Figure 8' and 'Glass & Patron' earlier this month. Produced by the mysterious BOOTS (producer of Beyonce's surprise album), it's a pretty highly anticipated release, following the hoo-ha around her 2014 album LP1, and subsequent sold-out international touring — including her recent Australian/Laneway tour. We're pretty stoked on artist Matthew Stone's EP cover art: Let's get to that 16-minute movie huh? Fusing tracks from the new EP into one freaky, mesmerising short film, twigs has created "an aggressive statement conceptualising the process of feeling pregnant with pain, birthing creativity and liberation," according to Pitchfork. From twigs as a live sex doll to a cameo from fashion icon Michele Lamy, this is one strange escapade. Watch below, with headphones up loud. M3LL155X is available through Young Turks. Via Pitchfork. Image: Andy Fraser, Laneway Festival.
You don't normally need to get dressed up to go to the movies, but you might want to wear your best threads to Griffith Film School's latest cinema showcase. As part of Brisbane Fashion Month, they're adorning their screen with the most fashionable docos they can for a two-day Fashion Film Festival. It all kicks off with the Australian premiere of tailoring doco Men of the Cloth, which we're assuming is cut to fit sartorial savvy viewers. Audiences can also get a refresher about ageing with individuality thanks to Advanced Style, explore a couture-focused life with Diana Vreeland: The Eye Has to Travel, and pay tribute to an inimitable social photographer with a tribute screening of Bill Cunningham New York.
Brisbanites, put a hold on stuffing your face with burgers and doughnuts, because there's a new food trend in town. If you've checked out any of your social media feeds over the last week, you've probably heard the term 'raindrop cake'. But what is it? And why is everyone in the city suddenly desperate to try this seeming culinary marvel? The answer to the second question is easy: Harajuku Gyoza in South Brisbane was the first place in Australia to start selling the new dessert craze, though it's also now available at their Potts Point store in Sydney too. The answer to the first question is a bit more complicated, particularly when the clear, jiggly meal everyone is craving tastes like water-flavoured jelly and looks like a giant eyeball, a breast implant or ball of goo. Raindrop cakes were invented by New York chef Darren Wong, who wanted to try his hand at making the traditional Japanese summer dish Mizu Shingen Mocha. Sparking lengthy lines at Brooklyn's Smorgasburg outdoor food markets when they were unveiled at the beginning of April, they consist of a mixture of spring water and a vegan gelatin derived from seaweed. That explains their appearance and texture, but not why everyone is raving about them. Perhaps the fact that raindrop cakes melt if they're not eaten within 30 minutes has something to do with it. Maybe their kilojoule-free status (if you don't count the accompanying powder and syrup) has everyone excited? Or, the way they're served on cute little bamboo boats? It could be Wong's revelation that he was inspired by the raindrops in A Bug's Life — because who doesn't want to eat something that looks like it comes straight from an animated movie? Whatever the reason, raindrop cakes are certain to keep food-loving Brisbane residents talking — and flocking to Harajuku Gyoza — for the foreseeable future. The dumpling house's take on the trend comes in two versions: a twist on Wong's recipe made with sesame powder and brown sugar syrup; and their own concoction complete with fresh strawberries, blueberries and raspberries inside the raindrop, and condensed milk, kinako and crushed peanuts on the side. Yes, we recommend trying both of them. Jump on board the raindrop cake bandwagon by visiting Harajuku Gyoza's South Brisbane store at 184 Grey Street or their Sydney store at 9-15 Bayswater Road, Potts Point. Check out their website and Facebook page for more information. Image: Tim Ireland for Darren Wong.
