Three shows on the Australian leg of Lady Gaga's The MAYHEM Ball tour were never going to be enough. First, a second Melbourne gig was added during the presale period — and now a second Sydney concert has joined her Aussie trip as well. If you're hoping for more from there to meet demand, however, that's all there'll be. Tour organisers have advised that the latest Harbour City concert is the singer's final Australian date on this run. Little monsters, you were already excited — but now you have more chances to see Mother Monster live. On her December 2025 visit this way, Lady Gaga is playing five gigs: across Friday, December 5–Saturday, December 6 at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne, then on Tuesday, December 9 at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, before finishing up over Friday, December 12–Saturday, December 13 at Sydney's Accor Stadium. When the 14-time Grammy Award-winner takes to the stage at the quintet of massive concerts, she'll not only play her first Australian shows in 11 years — she'll do her first-ever Australian stadium concerts as well. The tour kicks off in Las Vegas in July, a few months after Lady Gaga finishes her two-weekend Coachella headlining gig — the second of which can be livestreamed worldwide across Saturday, April 19–Monday, April 21 Australian time, just as everyone did with the first. Before The MAYHEM Ball tour begins, she's also doing shows in Mexico City, Singapore and Rio de Janeiro. After her Vegas dates, everywhere from Las Vegas, New York and Toronto to London, Stockholm, Berlin and Paris will also score Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta's presence. Given that this is Gaga's first Aussie visit since 2014's ArtRave: The ARTPOP Ball gigs (with the Joanne and Chromatica Ball tours bypassing this part of the world), tickets for the local leg have understandably been going fast. When she added 13 new dates to the initially announced first shows on the tour overseas, they all sold out swiftly. As the name makes plain, Germanotta is touring on the back of MAYHEM, her latest album — and seventh in a row to go to number one on the Billboard 200. It also debuted in the top spot on Australia's charts, and gave Gaga her biggest streaming week ever by notching up 240-million streams on its first week alone. In addition to MAYHEM tracks such as 'Disease', 'Abracadabra' and 'Die with a Smile', fans can likely look forward to hits from across the artist's career, such as 'Poker Face', 'Bad Romance', 'Paparazzi', 'Born This Way' and 'Rain on Me' — plus, of course, seeing Gaga live onstage, rather than getting your fix via her film work in recent years in A Star Is Born, House of Gucci and Joker: Folie à Deux. Lady Gaga's The Mayhem Tour Australia 2025 Dates Friday, December 5–Saturday, December 6 — Marvel Stadium, Melbourne Tuesday, December 9 — Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane Friday, December 12–Saturday, December 13 — Accor Stadium, Sydney [caption id="attachment_998819" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Frank Lebon[/caption] Lady Gaga is touring Australia in December 2025. General sales kicked off at 12pm on Thursday, April 17 for more shows, with times varying per city. For the second Sydney date, presales will start at 12pm on Tuesday, April 22, then general sales from 1pm on Thursday, April 24. Head to the tour website for more details. Live images: Raph PH via Flickr.
What's race week without a prime pit stop to rest, change your wheels, have a drink and a dance, then get back out on the track? With the Australian GP turning the eye of the racing world onto Melbourne once again this March — St Kilda icon The Espy is joining the fun and bringing back its crowd-favourite live music series, Jack's Garage, to the Gershwin Room to complement the on-track action. Jack's Garage, in a nutshell, is four free nights of live music at Hotel Esplanade. The live gig series is entering its second year in 2026 — once again bringing four artists to the venue for GA only gigs — no tickets required, just registration and a prompt arrival. A very prompt arrival, because the lineup for these first-in, first-served shows will pack the room in no time at all. Opening the week is the multi-ARIA Award-winning electronic duo The Presets, fresh off a summer tour and seen not long ago at the AO, they'll be performing from 7.30pm on Thursday, March 5. Next, local indie rockers and intimate performers Slowly Slowly will slow things down — in a good way — on Friday, March 6. Saturday, March 7, will see Australian DJ and vocalist Anna Lunoe take to the stage to showcase the dance music she's been performing on festival stages around the world. And for the big finale, the Triple J Hottest 100-featured 'it boy' of Aussie electronica, Keli Holiday, is closing out race week on Sunday with a set of his solo work that you've likely heard all over social media already. Each event will star whiskey cocktails from sponsor Jack Daniel's — word to the wise, this isn't the only race week event the brand is putting on, so stay tuned for more chances to get in on the action. Jack's Garage will run nightly at The Esplanade from 7.30pm on Thursday, March 5 to Sunday, March 8. Ticket waitlists are open now on Oztix.
The State Library may be beautiful, imposing and a little cold, but don't be put off: there's warmth, comfort and productivity waiting for you in spades, especially inside Guild Cafe. Located in a part of the library that's been closed for 15 years, the cafe sprung up as part of the huge refurbishments the precinct underwent last year. Helmed by local business Almond Milk Co, the cafe is just inside the Library's new Russell Street entrance space, the Welcome Zone, where you'll also find an outpost of Readings bookshop. The short and sweet menu has classic pastries and lunch staples, such as salads and sandwiches, and lots of vegan options — including ramen with nori and pickled ginger ($6) and granola with minted coconut yoghurt ($6) Big windows make for plenty of light and large communal tables lend themselves well to remote working with just you, your laptop, and a bunch of other focused people. Plus — the folks at Guild know what they're doing when it comes to coffee (from St Ali), and an all-day filter coffee pass is available for $10 (or hot tip: try the almond milk). Images: We Are Tofu.
Head into Sydney's Odd Culture in Newtown, or its new accompanying bottle shop and small bar SPON, and you'll be greeted with a stack of tasty wine and snack pairings. The venue's chicken liver pâté with potato chips and fish sauce caramel is one of the Harbour City's best bar snacks. The same can be said down in Melbourne, where Odd Culture's Fitzroy digs boasts the same addictive trio on its snack menu. And, all three offer charcuterie from LP's Quality Meats — all of which can be paired with a white, red, skin-contact, rosé or pét-nat. But, sometimes you're not on the hunt for something as extravagant as pâté and instead are hankering for a snack with a bit more nostalgic familiarity. Well, not to worry — we've asked Odd Culture Group's Beverage Manager Jordan Blackman (Odd Culture, The Duke of Enmore, The Old Fitz) for suggestions for the best wines to pair with schoolyard snacks, all of which are available in-store or online at SPON. (And, yes, SPON ships beyond New South Wales.) If you've ever craved a natty wine with a full box of cheese and bacon Shapes, or wondered what drop would partner well with a berry Roll-Up, we've got you covered. ROLL-UPS Jordan: "If we're talking Roll-Ups, then we simply can't go past grenache. Candied fruit with a lick of spice — a match made in heaven. Grab a bottle of 2021 Les Fruits Gonzo made from a blend of grenache and cinsault. Bright and crunchy with juicy red fruits (think strawberry, raspberry and cherry) and gentle tannin. Great chilled, great at room temp. It goes without saying we're talking about the best flavour of Roll-Ups here — and that's strawberry." OVALTEENIES Jordan: "Why do they call it Ovaltine? The mug is round. The jar is round. They should call it Roundtine. Anyway. Steering away from anything too hectic that might overwhelm the sweet, delicate chocolate malt of our precious Ovalteenies, I'd crack into some Ngeringa Altus from Mount Barker. Inspired by Vin Santo by way of Tuscany, it's sweet yet oxidative and insanely complex — crème caramel, Turkish delight, hazelnut and dried fruits drenched in honey." CHEESE AND BACON SHAPES Jordan: "My mind immediately gravitated towards Bandol rosé from the south of France — weighty, powerful and made from mourvèdre, often said to be quite 'meaty'. In the spirit of keeping things homegrown, I've gone with a longstanding favourite: 2022 Poppelvej Dead Ohio Sky Rosé which clearly draws inspiration from the Bandol. Organically grown Mourvèdre from McLaren Vale with texture turned up to eleven, it's serious, savoury and spicy all the while refreshing and moreish — kind of like cheese and bacon Shapes?" LE SNAK Jordan: "Cheese and crackers, but not just any ordinary cheese and/or cracker — elevate your lunchbox with Le Snak and a bottle of 2021 Harkham Aziza's Chardonnay. Hands down, one of my favourite cuvées — zero adds, clean as a whistle, alive! Naturally fermented and rested in seasoned French oak, these two play almost too well together coaxing out notes of fresh sourdough, vanilla biscuits and whipped cream while racy acidity keeps everything in check." JUMPY'S Jordan: "Apparently there are other flavours of Jumpy's than chicken? 2022 Trutta Pétillant Naturel Blanc is the obvious choice here. A blend of chardonnay and riesling, this organic fizz is brimming with energy, bright acidity and reminds us of another nostalgic Australian snack — oh, glorious Splice! Saline, zippy and ultimately refreshing — a perfect match for couch snacks of the kangaroo-shaped kind. We love salty snacks with our bubbles." Head to SPON's website — or in-store if you're in Sydney — if you want to get your hands on any of the mentioned wines. SPON is open at 256 King Street, Newtown 12pm–10pm Monday–Thursday, 12pm–12am Friday and 11am–12am Saturday.
Carlton is known for its poky little places. There are heaps of small pizza joints with very large men spruiking them, there are great cafes down tight laneways and there are beloved basement bars with only a few seats available — but people don't talk much about its big sprawling pubs. The Great Northern is one of them. And we'd say this is made for true pub lovers — the folks who like to watch the footy and really know their beers. Boasting 22 taps with a regular rotation of craft beers including Balter, 2 Brothers, Slumdog Brewing Co and Stone & Wood, and a selection from the ever-present Brooklyn Brewery, this is definitely the place to go for a pint. But it's not only about the beers. The great Northern does some decent pub food too. Get around a chicken or eggplant parma, some deliciously greasy burgers and a few steaks and salads. Nothing on the food menu will surprise you, but it will keep you happily fuelled for a day or night out in Carlton. Appears in: The Best Pubs in Melbourne for 2023
Greek restaurants are a dime a dozen in the diasporic heartland of Oakleigh, but Greek wine bars are a less common phenomenon. Enter Olympia, a venture from former DJ Nick Flaounas. Above Oakleigh Market, Olympia is spread across two levels. There's an indoor wine bar on the first floor and a rooftop bar in what used to be the market's carpark. The instantly recognisable blue and white colour scheme — synonymous with Greece — olive trees on the rooftop transport you instantly to the Mediterranean. The share menu has mouth-watering bites like Fremantle pickled octopus, saganaki croquettes, shallow-fried calamari, marinated pork skewers, and lobster and prawn rolls. Food is far from an afterthought at Olympia. If you don't feel like making decisions, 'Yiayia's Selection' is a pre-selected feed-me menu designed precisely for that. Greece is as well-known for its wine as it is for its cuisine. At Olympia, you'll find local wines peppered in amongst sauvignon blanc from the Peloponnese, syrah from Aigialeia and sparkling rose from Naoussa. House cocktails span the likes of espresso martinis and Tommy's margaritas while seasonal cocktails spotlight ingredients like Greek coffee liqueur in the Kafethaki Martini and the black wine grape of Mavrodafni in the mulled wine.
New South Wales is dotted with seemingly endless country towns and weekend destinations. Among the best of these is Kangaroo Valley, named for the Kangaroo River along which the tiny village is situated. The town is only two hours south of Sydney but packs all of the charm that we love about rural NSW — breathtaking mountain and valley views, bushwalks aplenty and wineries galore. Kangaroo Valley is a cabin retreat that will feel decades away from the city hustle and bustle, but is still close enough for a quick weekender. Here's how to make the most of it. [caption id="attachment_581967" align="alignnone" width="1280"] @she_eats[/caption] EAT/DRINK Kangaroo Valley may not be the most talked about wine region, but it sure is a quiet contender. The region is distinguished by its rich volcanic soil which is ideal for viticulture — aka growing grapes. The winding pathway to the remote Yarrawa Estate is not an easy one to follow, but you'll be pleasantly surprised as the path opens to this lakeside vineyard. If the golden retrievers and frolicking children remind you of a visit to the family country home you either have or dream about, well, it should — the cellar door is quite literally set in the Foster family dining room, where strangers momentarily become relatives. Apart from the incredible wine, they also offer a range of nuts, jams and pickles made from homegrown produce. Be sure to taste their homemade walnut liquor wine, a combination of both passions. Possibly the best known among the region's wineries is Silos Estate. The cellar door is run by friendly, knowledgeable locals and set among the estate's sloping Shiraz vineyards. Order a local producer's cheese plate at the cellar bar while you enjoy your free wine tasting or peruse the collection of locally-made smallgoods for sale. If you're hankering for something more substantial, head over to the Silos restaurant which is set in a 100-year-old hay shed and has a relatively reasonable tasting menu ($29.95 for lunch, $95 for dinner). Head chef Nick Gardner (Tetsuya's, Quay, The French Laundry) focuses on native Australian ingredients and local produce, like the decadent red snapper topped with warrigal greens, smoked oyster cream and citrus caviar sauce. The open fireplace keeps you cosy in the winter months while outdoor seating is perfect for warm weather days. Once you're out by Silos, might as well stop over at The Famous Berry Donut Van for their notorious cinnamon-sugar doughnuts. You deserve a second dessert — you're on holiday after all. [caption id="attachment_575084" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Southern Pies.[/caption] If wineries aren't your thing, Kangaroo Valley holds plenty of small town eateries to explore. If you're looking for a quick, road trip snack, check out Southern Pies — the cheeseburger pie or the curry beef are standouts, and vegetarians will love the award-winning lentil and chickpea dhal pie or the honey-roast pumpkin and spinach. The only pub in town, The Friendly Inn, has been around since 1892 and is one of the oldest in the region. Though it's pretty standard pub fare, the real draw is the expansive beer garden which overlooks the rolling valleys and mountains beyond. On the drive down from Sydney, or on the way back home, have a stopover at Berrima's Bendooley Estate, which houses the original Berkelouw Book Barn. The architecturally-designed winery is situated within a gorgeous backdrop, while the produce-driven restaurant sits within the bookshop itself. Check out our Foodie's Guide to Kangaroo Valley for more eating destinations. [caption id="attachment_581969" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Angus L.[/caption] DO As the town lies along the Kangaroo River, one of the best ways to see the valley is via kayak or canoe. Two companies in town, Kangaroo Valley Safaris and Kangaroo Valley Kayaks are comparable in price and both offer pick-up service at the end of the five-kilometre, self-guided journey. The gentle rapids and overall calm river is easy to navigate and includes spectacular scenery and plenty of wildlife to sight. A pro tip is to go on an overcast or drizzly day when the tourist count will be at its lowest and the river will be as peaceful as ever. If bushwalks are more your speed, Mortan National Park and Kangaroo Valley Nature Reserve seem to have an endless number of hiking trails to explore. Within the park is the Fitzroy Falls walking track, which offers both forest and cliff-side views, as well as a good chance to see platypus and lyrebird in their natural habitat. The full West Rim walking track, a moderate 3.5 kilometre trip, will take you through eucalypt and lush rainforest, remarkable gorges and waterfalls before finishing at Twin Falls. Beach lovers should go for the Seven Mile Beach track, which includes stunning ocean views and beach side picnic areas. [caption id="attachment_581975" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Maarten Danial.[/caption] Once the great outdoors has you good and tired, it's time to check out the many antique shops around town. While Kangaroo Valley town itself is loaded with boutiques and craft shops, our favourite is the out-of-towner, Grandpa's Shed. Located down the road from Fitzroy Falls, this warehouse has every antique imaginable, from hand-axes and old farming equipment to antique jewellery and comic books. The shop is connected to an old-school, working gas station, which will offer a much needed cold drink if you're visiting after a trek. [caption id="attachment_581976" align="alignnone" width="1280"] The Heavens.[/caption] STAY Kangaroo Valley is ideal for a cabin getaway weekend and there are plenty of options to that end, from The Heavens to Kookaburra Hill. Twin Falls Bush Cottages is by far our favourite — family-owned and operated, the five one- or two-bedroom cottages are nicely spaced for privacy from the neighbours and include a fireplace, full kitchen and outdoor barbecue. The expansive property is set right in the bush, with private hikes and mountain bike trails, as well as a communal tennis court, pool and fire pit to boot. The location is also perfectly situated for both for Twin Falls and Fitzroy Falls treks and the remote location is a true removal from city living. If you're looking to stay closer to town, the Tall Trees Bed and Breakfast is conveniently located just one kilometre from the town centre and is walkable for those without a car. You can either choose a traditional B&B or a self contained unit here. Another, more upscale option is the villas at Kangaroo Valley Golf and Country Club, only a four-minute drive from town and offering sweeping valley views. [caption id="attachment_581974" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Flickr.[/caption] LET'S DO THIS, HOW DO I GET THERE? By car: Kangaroo Valley is two hours drive south of Sydney along Hume Highway. This is the suggested route, as it makes it much easier to travel around the valley for hikes and wineries. By public transport: Catch the Southern NSW train line from Central Station to Moss Vale Station, then transfer to the 810 bus toward Nowra, which stops in the heart of Kangaroo Valley. Top image: Rodney Campbell.
Delving into the State Library Victoria's immense collection, World of the Book is the organisation's annual reveal of its rarest and most prized books. Opening on Saturday, May 31, this free event features over 300 remarkable items from its coffers, with every book-lover sure to discover a treasured text that excites them. Celebrating its 20th edition, World of the Book 2025 features some extra-special highlights. In an Australian first, the exhibition will feature the world's earliest recorded example of mass-printed text – the Hyakumantō Darani. Printed in Japan more than 1250 years ago, this series of Buddhist prayers and spells will go on public display for the first time. To honour its major anniversary, the exhibition will also feature a collection of pieces displayed at the inaugural World of the Book event. This includes a manuscript made for Lorenzo de' Medici in 1478, when he was at the height of his power as Florence's de facto ruler. There's also an exploration of manga, alongside fan art inspired by Andy Griffiths's Treehouse series. The exhibition is also stacked with a program of free events, helping visitors gain even more insight into the collection's rare books, as well as the broader culture around the printed word. For example, Senior Collection Curator Daniel Wee will share his favourite rare book covers on Monday, July 28, while fans of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland will experience a special treat on Friday, August 1. Images: Eugene Hyland.
Sydney's cultural scene hits full stride in summer, when theatres, galleries, parks and inner-city streets light up with blockbuster musicals, bold new exhibitions and major festivals. Whether you're in the mood for a time-travelling stage spectacular, a boundary-pushing gallery show or a night out at one of the city's biggest cultural celebrations, there's something happening in nearly every corner of Sydney. To help you plan your season, we've pulled together six standout events and paired each one with nearby places to help you make a day — or night — of it. Consider this your roadmap to experiencing Sydney at its most creative and colourful. [caption id="attachment_1048999" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Daniel Boud[/caption] Back to the Future: The Musical Why it's unmissable Great Scott! The DeLorean has arrived in Australia, bringing high-voltage sets and nostalgia-driven humour to the Sydney Lyric. Featuring music and lyrics by OG Back to the Future composer Alan Silvestri and acclaimed songwriter Glen Ballard (Jagged Little Pill the Musical), plus a book by Gale — who co-penned all three Back to the Future film scripts with filmmaker Robert Zemeckis — the Olivier Award-winning Back to the Future: The Musical is summer's blockbuster musical moment. Find out more here. Make a night of it Start your evening with pasta and a spritz on the breezy waterfront terrace — the largest in Barangaroo — at Gina. The sun-washed venue takes its cues from the classic coastal trattorias of the Amalfi Coast, serving daily handmade pasta, cold cuts sliced to order and crowd-pleasing Italian classics. Its position on the ferry pier also means a swift (and scenic) trip across the harbour will set you down in Pyrmont just steps from the theatre. Extend your stay Extend your night out with a stay at Sofitel Darling Harbour, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame the skyline and the rooftop infinity pool delivers some of the best sunrise views in the city. It's an elegant, easy base just a short stroll from the theatre — and puts you right in the heart of Pyrmont and Darling Harbour's buzzy dining and lifestyle scenes. RELICS: A New World Rises Why it's unmissable Running at the Australian Museum, RELICS: A New World Rises goes far beyond your average LEGO® exhibit. Created by Alex Towler and Jackson Harvey (2020 winners of Channel 9's LEGO® Masters), it blends the iconic bricks with real-world objects like you've never seen before, transforming pre-loved everyday items into 14 immersive mini civilisations. Find out more here. Make a day of it After the exhibition, take things sky-high at Infinity by Mark Best — a scenic stroll through Hyde Park from the museum — where, from the 81st floor of Sydney Tower, the Harbour City feels like its own miniature civilisation. Its elegant Modern Australian menu showcases local produce in clever, technique-driven dishes — a fitting follow-up to an exhibition that asks you to look closer at the worlds we build. [caption id="attachment_1018817" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jason Loucas[/caption] Then, ease back down to street level and wander over to Library Bar, the State Library's rooftop hideaway overlooking the treetops of Macquarie Street. It's an easygoing spot for a summer sundowner, with spritzes, snacks and views that pair perfectly with a slow end to the afternoon. Sydney Festival Why it's unmissable Sydney Festival turns 50 in 2026, and it's marking the milestone with a citywide celebration of culture and connection. From January 8–25, the annual summer spectacular will take over stages, parks and galleries — plus unexpected spaces like alleyways, pools and even a working funeral home — for a three-week program spanning theatre, dance, music, cabaret, visual art and immersive experiences. It's one of the most exciting times to be out in the city, with something happening in nearly every corner. Find out more here. Make a day of it Sydney Festival is built for days spent wandering between performances and pop-ups, so start early with brunch or a breezy lunch in whichever pocket of the city your show is in. If you're headed to Walsh Bay, a waterside spot like Barangaroo seafood favourite love.fish sets the tone; for a show in the CBD or around Town Hall, enjoy a pre-show snack and sip at contemporary Greek spot Ela Ela, or slip into elegant fast fine-dining spot Ette for an aperitivo and creative snack before the curtain goes up. Follow the festival trail Post-show, drift along the Festival trail and hop between neighbourhoods as the night builds. That could mean a sunset drink at InterContinental Sydney's rooftop stunner Aster before an event in The Rocks, or a stop at vibey Chippendale fave Bar Freda's for a spicy watermelon marg slushie — and maybe even a cheeky boogie — ahead of a late-night gig at Carriageworks. [caption id="attachment_1046924" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Installation view of the 'Dangerously Modern: Australian Women Artists in Europe 1890–1940' exhibition at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, 11 October 2025 – 15 February 2026, photo © Art Gallery of New South Wales, Anna Kučera[/caption] Dangerously Modern Why it's unmissable The Art Gallery of NSW is spotlighting an often-overlooked chapter of Australian art history with its summer blockbuster Dangerously Modern: Australian Women Artists in Europe 1890–1940. This landmark exhibition showcases more than 200 works by 50 pioneering women who left Australia to embed themselves in the studios, salons and artist colonies of Europe's cultural capitals, where they experimented and exhibited long before modernism took hold back home. The show traces how these experiences shaped their practices, and how they returned with ideas that helped reshape Australia's artistic landscape. Find out more here. Make a night of it With two-for-one tickets on offer for Art After Hours on Wednesdays, the gallery is an ideal spot to kick off a chic midweek date night. Afterwards, channel the spirit of Europe's late-night salons and slip into Letra House, Kent Street's moody underground tapas bar. Head in for a pick from its ever-evolving 50-bottle wine list, and pair it with a selection of ingredient-driven small plates like raw scampi tostada, duck liver parfait with pickled rhubarb and brandy snap, or socarrat with firefly squid, broadbean and garlic. Nightcap? Take a short stroll around the corner to Bar Herbs, which pours classic and flavour-forward martinis in a neon-hued subterranean space that hums until the small hours. Extend your stay Turn your date night into a mini-escape with a stay at W Sydney, where boundary-pushing design and statement-making interiors pick up right where your gallery visit left off. The hotel's striking architecture, curated art moments and rooftop infinity pool overlooking Darling Harbour will keep you perfectly primed to carry that creative spark into the next day. Tropfest Why it's unmissable Following a six-year hiatus, the world's biggest short-film festival returns to Centennial Park this summer. And while the world has changed quite a bit since its last outing in 2019, Tropfest's core mission remains unchanged: to give filmmakers at any stage of their careers a genuinely global platform — and to do it at a free, openair event that welcomes everyone. Find out more here. Make a night of it Centennial Park's position smack-bang in the middle of the eastern suburbs means you're on the doorstep of Double Bay's buzzy dining scene. Stop by Neil Perry's big-swinging Italian restaurant Gran Torino for handmade pasta and a show-stopping tiramisu in a historic setting, or settle in for a perfectly cooked steak at Perry's sleek Mod Oz fine diner Margaret, just up the street. [caption id="attachment_1017635" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Yusuke Oba[/caption] If dinner by the sea is more the mood, head east and grab a table at Rocker, North Bondi's breezy all-day diner featuring coastal Mediterranean-inspired plates, natural wines and a solid cocktail lineup that includes eight types of margarita — plus one of the more impressive Sunday roasts in town. [caption id="attachment_978660" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Joseph Mayers[/caption] Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade Why it's unmissable Sydney's most colourful pride parade returns to the streets of Darlinghurst for its 48th edition in February, transforming Oxford Street, Flinders Street and Anzac Parade into a glittering celebration of visibility, power and joy. With thousands of marchers and dozens of flamboyant floats, the night pulses with energy — and it's completely free to watch, making it one of Sydney's most accessible major events. The theme guiding the parade's 48th edition is ECSTATICA, which celebrates joy as power, protest and connection. Find out more here. Before the parade Set the tone early in Darlinghurst, where street-front tables start filling long before the first float hits Oxford Street. Ease into the night at The Waratah, the cosy two-storey bar known for its native ingredient-starring cocktails and fun bar snacks (pictured below). Or, take a seat at L'Avant Cave, Oxford Street Paddington's charming courtyard wine bar pouring standout drops by the glass and nostalgic French-leaning bites. If you're coming in via Surry Hills, The Art Syndicate serves wines, beers and spirits exclusively from NSW in an intimate art gallery just behind Taylor Square. For a more low-key warm-up, 40Res offers a seasonally evolving menu built around local ingredients and a sharp list of Australian and European from boutique producers — all in an understated, dimly lit room that contrasts beautifully with the technicolour chaos of the festivities outside. [caption id="attachment_929493" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jason Loucas[/caption] After the parade When the glitter settles, head up to Monica, Paddington's 1960s Hollywood-inspired rooftop bar overlooking Oxford Street, for skyline views and a party-ready drinks list. It's perched above the personality-packed 25hours Hotel Sydney The Olympia, a handy spot to crash after one of the city's biggest parties. When you resurface, stroll down to Surry Hills stalwart Bills for a breezy brunch — the signature ricotta hotcakes, corn fritters and velvety scrambled eggs are an ideal way to fuel your debrief from the night before. Ready to feel the Sydney side of summer? Discover the full calendar of what's on across the city at sydney.com. Top image: Anna Kučera.
"Are people born wicked? Or do they have wickedness thrust upon them?" They're the questions that the full trailer for Wicked poses in its first moments. The rest of the sneak peek, the film it's for, and both the musical and the book that it's based on all explore those queries through the tale of Glinda (Ariana Grande, Don't Look Up) and Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo, Pinocchio). Film lovers, you're going off to see the witches, the powerful witches of Oz, when Wicked soars from the page and the stage to the screen in 2024. The famous and beloved theatre musical adapts a book that takes inspiration from The Wizard of Oz, and has been a show-going favourite for more than two decades thanks to composer Stephen Schwartz and playwright Winnie Holzman. Now, it's heading to cinemas as a two-part movie. The first instalment, now just called Wicked rather than Wicked: Part One, arrives in November with director Jon M Chu (In the Heights, Crazy Rich Asians) behind the lens. Grande dons pink and Erivo sports the requisite green in both the first teaser trailer for the movie — which arrived amid the annual Super Bowl sneak-peek frenzy (see also: Deadpool & Wolverine) — and also for the just-dropped complete sneak peek. Haven't caught the stage show on its current Australian run, including in Sydney since 2023 and in Melbourne from March 2024 , with Brisbane to come? Defy gravity in your local picture palace before the year is out instead. In the two trailers for the film, Glinda tells Elphaba "don't be afraid". "I'm not afraid," is the fellow witch's response. "It's the Wizard who should be afraid of me." As for why, the second trailer steps through more of the plot — complete with renditions of 'Popular' and, yes, 'Defying Gravity'; Elphaba getting her black witch hat; flying monkeys; hues of pink and green aplenty; and meeting the Wizard of Oz (Jeff Goldblum, Asteroid City) in Emerald City. Wicked follows the Land of Oz's witches, with telling their untold tale the musical's whole angle. On the stage, the show has notched up more awards than you can fit in a hefty cauldron over the years. That includes three Tonys from ten nominations, a Grammy, an Olivier Award and six Drama Desk Awards. Joining Grande and Erivo in bringing Wicked to the cinemas is quite the who's who-style cast. Alongside Goldblum, Michelle Yeoh (A Haunting in Venice), Jonathan Bailey (Bridgerton), Ethan Slater (The Marvellous Mrs Maisel) and Bowen Yang (Saturday Night Live) also feature. As for when the second Wicked movie will also get flickering, it's due in November 2025. Check out the full trailer for Wicked below: Wicked releases in cinemas Down Under on November 28, 2024.
After much anticipation, Melbourne's hottest new hotel offering, Hannah St, has finally opened for business. Fitting with its effortlessly cool attitude, the newest kid on the Southbank block opened quietly and unassumingly late in 2025, ready to bring a revamped approach to boutique hospitality to Melbourne. Designed by Flack Studio, the property sits under the Collection by TFE banner — a portfolio of one-of-a-kind hotels built to reflect each location's culture and creativity. Guests can choose from 188 rooms immersed in art, architecture, music and hospitality that celebrate what makes the city's southern edge special. Slotting into one of the glitzier parts of town, this $150 million hotel has spared little expense to offer guests an immersive celebration of architecture and cultural connection. Tucked into the emerging Queensbridge precinct — a new mixed-use development — this sophisticated hotel feels right at home amid the ongoing transformation of the Melbourne Arts Precinct. Inspired by grand New York City landmarks like the Flatiron Building, with its striking triangular shape, Hannah St Hotel's design fuses tradition with modern sensibilities. "We're incredibly proud to open our doors and share what's been taking shape behind the scenes for the past three years," says Hannah St Hotel General Manager, Peter Minatsis. "Hannah St Hotel was created to feel connected to its neighbourhood. A place where guests can experience the real Melbourne, not just visit it. From the design to the dining to the small, thoughtful touches in every room, everything has been considered to make people feel welcomed… and we're doing just that." Inside, guests will encounter an unexpected mix of custom-made furniture, bold colours, sought-after artwork and textured materiality. While Flack Studio has made its name in residential architecture with these same qualities — Andy Lee's 'Ravenswood' development is another of its projects — the studio is increasingly bringing this modern-nostalgia aesthetic to commercial architecture. "It's part grand hotel, part underground bar, part cultural clubhouse," said Designer David Flack, Founder and Principal of Flack Studio. "We've created a space that feels lived-in, loved, and full of stories." Every room offers skyline views, curated minibars and design features that nod to Melbourne's architectural and cultural layers. Situated within the podium of the Queensbridge Building, a 65-storey residential and lifestyle tower, Hannah St Hotel is anchored by guest facilities on level 9. Described as the hotel's social soul, the hotel features a 20-metre lap pool, a fully equipped gym, and wellness amenities, including a steam room and a sauna. And because everyone and their dog has their own podcast these days, the hotel even offers a dedicated podcast room along with co-working spaces and design-forward conference facilities. Of course, the food and drink offering at Hannah St Hotel is no afterthought. In a landmark collaboration, The Mulberry Group, which operates several restaurants in Melbourne, including Lilac Wine, Hazel, and Dessous, has opened five new venues within the hotel. Its founder, Nathan Toleman, brings a wealth of hospitality experience to this latest project, having been instrumental in defining the Melbourne cafe scene through venues such as Top Paddock, Higher Ground and The Kettle Black. With Hannah St, Toleman will realise a long-held dream of bringing hospitality, community and design together in one project. Each of the five venues will present a distinct feel and offering. A hole-in-the-wall cafe, Hannah St Coffee, serves Square One Coffee, baked goods and grab-and-go lunches. Coupette Corner Bistro & Bar is an all-day Euro-leaning restaurant, serving everything from early-morning brekkie to late-night suppers. There is no shortage of options for a nightcap: The Terrace Lounge offers rooftop views and cocktails, Bar Hannah serves as a classic lobby bar, and The Carriage Lounge is designed for an intimate and elegant pre- or post-dinner beverage. Toleman says, "With Hannah St, we wanted to capture that same sense of wonder and excitement, but with a Melbourne heartbeat. A place that feels alive, authentic, and inclusive — not just for travellers, but for locals too." Images: Supplied.
What happens when a bunch of affable booze reps turn their hands to opening a bar? You get Mr West — a bottleshop and bar in Footscray that offers punters flagons of rosé and more beers than your Pa could squirrel away for winter. The downstairs bottleshop is open every day. And you can sit in amongst the dark woody hues and enjoy a brew with your new favourite keeps. There are shelves of beers — sours, stouts, IPAs, you name it — with regular staff reccos and guest brews always hitting the right spot. The Mr West bar is the kind of place you head to for an after-work drink, take your dog to on weekends (to the upstairs pup-friendly area) or rock up to solo and sit amongst the locals. Time your visit right, and you'll be met with the soft scent of sugar syrup floating down the stairs. The lads intermingle their prep necessities with experimental excites. We've landed right on the money with our visit and are privy to a measure of their rye bourbon, barrelled-aged Long Island Iced Tea. It distinctly resembles 90s cola-bottle candy, with its hazy white and burgundy-coloured layering. Snacks are somewhat limited at Mr West — think charcuterie boards, cheese plates and hot chips with hummus (an outstanding and underrated combo) — but it's the 24 taps of beer that have been drawing the crowds. Admittedly, the beers are impressive and change on the regs. For us, however, it's the mezcals that really sing. Hand-selected from locals in Mexico and gifts from friends who sacrifice their duty-free limits, the offerings are rare and unique. Unlike tequila, which must be made from blue agave, the agave in mezcal has the leisure of being grown anywhere across nine regions, with 48 varietals available. This means there's a broadness in taste to the smoky delights. Check out Mr West's Friday tastings to best explore these fine tequila-adjacent tipples. Appears in: The Best Bars in Melbourne for 2023
In 2025, wellness is no longer confined to day spas, gyms and yoga studios. With the rise of health clubs that combine every facet of wellness under one roof, self-care is becoming as much about who you do it with as how you do it. You can now head to a holistic wellness hang-out with your coworking colleagues, or flex your membership to an exclusive private club. Now, a 5000-square-foot destination in Eltham is joining the fray in October — and it's bringing a fresh take onto the scene. Gut health gets top billing here — THERAPY's sprawling 60-seater cafe and restaurant isn't your average whole foods spot. The menu ticks the boxes (hormone- and blood sugar-balancing meals with all the nutrient groups, plus all the "-free" options you can think of), but it's the mealtime rituals that make it interesting. Kick off with an extra-virgin olive oil shot — great for antioxidant intake and even better for the beneficial gut bugs. Or sneak in some hydrogen therapy and Pulsett vagus nerve stimulation between bites, so you'll leave not just well-fed, but also destressed, recovered, digested and in a very good mood. For a quick sip, there are smoothies, fatigue-fighting adaptogen elixirs or tea blends promising more than hydration. The onboarding process at THERAPY is more than just a tour of its state-of-the-art facilities. Set time aside for a detailed Brain-Body diagnostic that produces a personalised treatment plan tailored to each guest's current needs. For example, a prescription for digestion issues might be a signature 12-week Nervous System Reset designed to get your gut-brain connection back on track. Plans at THERAPY will also include serious mental and spiritual wellness services like psychology, EMDR therapy, cognitive training, sound healing and more — alongside fun recovery treatments like cryotherapy, infrared saunas, hyperbaric oxygen and IV drips. When you're not in one of the 14 service rooms (and counting) getting pampered, sink into one of the plush lounge areas or check the board for activities. It's not all small talk here — the centre also hosts wellness circles, guest speaker events and evening book club dinners to round out the week. THERAPY is set to open in October, and you can find out more about what the wellness centre will offer via the website. Images: Supplied.
If you're planning to snap up one of IKEA's joyfully sculptural Gustaf Westman tablewares next month, there's another collaboration that should be on your radar. This time, the furniture juggernaut has tapped in Tekla Evelina Severin, a Swedish interior architect who goes by Teklan. Celebrated for her playful geometric sensibilities and expert eye for colour composition, Teklan has imagined up a seven-piece collection of whimsical speakers. The standouts are a pair of KULGLASS lamps that double up as Bluetooth speakers. Their swirly shades are a delightful nod to soft-serve ice cream, rendered in reddish-brown and mint green tones drawn from Teklan's childhood memories – she even matched the mint green to a soap bar from her grandparents' home. Originally a minimalist white speaker crafted by IKEA product designer Ola Wihlborg, the SOLSKYDD speaker has been transformed by Teklan into a trio of colourful collectibles. The round speakers come in three sizes: a portable model that pops in every room; a medium version sporting green, brown and beige stripes; and a large textured orange one that can be mounted on the wall. All speakers in the SOLSKYDD family can sync up with each other and other IKEA Bluetooth speakers, so you can play your tunes throughout the house. The lineup also features the iconic FADO lamp, a mood light reimagined with a gentle brown pattern across to its surface. This isn't the first time IKEA has worked with Teklan and her distinct aesthetic — earlier this year, she released 14 climbing rope-inspired charging cables. The full Teklan range is scheduled be launched globally in December 2o25.
Triple J's Hottest 100 is back for another year, counting down the best songs of 2025 as voted by listeners around the country. The nation's biggest music event kicks off from 12pm on Saturday, January 24, 2026, and while you could tune in from home, it's far better with a cold drink in hand and a crowd singing along beside you. Across Australia, venues are turning up the volume and opening their doors for Hottest 100 listening parties, complete with drink specials, live sets and all-day kick-ons once the number one song drops. From inner-city pubs and coastal beer gardens to small-batch breweries and rooftop bars, here's where to celebrate the countdown in style this weekend. NSW: Akasha Brewing Company – Five Dock The Lord Gladstone – Chippendale 4 Pines Truckbar – Brookvale Resin Brewing – Bulli Darlo Bar – Darlinghurst East Village Hotel – Darlinghurst Taphouse Sydney – Darlinghurst The Strand Hotel – Darlinghurst The Golden Barley Hotel – Enmore Bombies – Freshwater The Governor – Macquarie Park Sauce Brewing Co – Marrickville The Courthouse Hotel – Newtown The Marlborough Hotel — Newtown The Old Commodore Hotel — McMahons Point Drink West – Penrith Public House – Petersham Salisbury Hotel – Stanmore General Gordon Hotel – Sydenham The Australian Heritage Hotel – The Rocks La La La's – Wollongong The Illawarra – Wollongong VIC: The Wine List – Euroa The Catfish – Fitzroy Top Yard — Melbourne CBD Holmes Hall — Moonee Ponds Welcome to Thornbury — Northcote Esplanade Hotel — St Kilda Westside Ale Works — South Melbourne QLD: Ric's Bar — Fortitude Valley WA: Rocky Ridge Brewing Co — Busselton Inglewood Hotel – Mt Lawley Rosemount Hotel – North Perth ACT: Assembly The People's Pub – Braddon Capital Brewing Co – Fyshwick NT: One Mile Brewery – Winnellie Don't see a listening party near you? Head to the website for the full list.
The glittery night sky has long been a source of mystery and wonder, but, surprisingly, there aren't too many exhibitions or events across Melbourne that let you explore its depths—until now. Enter Discover The Night Sky, the Melbourne Planetarium's new monthly astronomy series hosted by renowned astronomer Dr Tanya Hill. Blending science and storytelling with awe-inspiring visuals, this immersive five-part, after-dark program dives into a different cosmic theme each month. Each session is projected across a captivating 16-metre domed screen, paired with a powerful 7.1 surround sound system. Settle into a plush, reclining chair as you journey through the universe to uncover the science behind eclipses and exoplanets, the Milky Way and mind-boggling black holes. Looking for a fun date night idea? Or something a little more inspired than the usual post-work pub beers? Discover The Night Sky is the antidote to midweek monotony. Stargaze through telescopes guided by amateur astronomers while sipping drinks and enjoying snacks from the Galaxy Bar. Host Dr Tanya Hill says looking up at the beautiful night sky—especially shared with others—can force you to slow down and open up to new perspectives. "What I'm really excited about is sharing with people the things we can't plan for. There's always something new that's being discovered about the universe, and I want to take people behind the headlines. We'll do a deep dive into the research and details of any new discoveries—what we've learnt, how they come about, and what mysteries still need to be figured out." Whether you're a space enthusiast or simply curious about the cosmos, the Melbourne Planetarium's Discover The Night Sky offers an engaging, educational, and beautifully immersive experience. 'Discover the Night Sky' will run on the last Thursday of the month from Thursday, July 31–November 27. Tickets are limited, to secure yours, visit the website. By Elise Cullen, images by Eugene Hyland (courtesy of Melbourne Planetarium)
When you wish upon a star, do you wish for all things Disney to be worked into your daily life? If so, then you'll be familiar with Sydney fine-dining institution NEL and its Once Upon a Time degustations. Since 2019, the Harbour City restaurant has been regularly plating up 11-course meals featuring dishes inspired by the Mouse House and its movies. In fact, it's done so four times so far. 2024's run will mark the enchanting dining experience's fifth chapter, then — and NEL's Executive Chef and namesake Nelly Robinson has new film-themed culinary creations in store. From Tuesday, April 16–Saturday, August 10, fans of top-notch meals and Disney alike can flutter into the Surry Hills eatery to enjoy courses that take their cues from Frozen, 101 Dalmatians, The Jungle Book and more. Both savoury and sweet dishes are on offer, with or without beverages — including cocktails — that also help tell a magical tale. For those who'll never be able to let their Mouse House obsession go, cured ocean trout Nordic-style — complete with a pickled onion snowflake, snow made out of cream cheese, and dustings of lemon and dill done at your table — is on the menu. Of course the Cruella de Vil-themed plate goes with a black-and-white colour scheme, featuring ricotta gnocchi, pan-seared mushroom and a celeriac velouté. And there'll be far more than the bare necessities tempting your tastebuds with the banana-shaped cream paired with roasted white chocolate and peanut butter brittle. Other courses include a nod to Peter Pan via a golden sweet pastry crumble, aka the Once Upon a Time degustation's version of pixie dust; saying "hi ho, hi ho" to a Snow White-inspired dish; and also paying edible tribute to Mulan, The Lion King, Bambi and The Nightmare Before Christmas. There's even NEL's version of a wand, aka a chicken and eggplant pastry that comes in a crisp tulle. "I am taking our diners on a journey of nostalgia. It is so much fun creating this menu. The films continue to inspire me. With the team at NEL, we have crafted the menu to ensure a moment of joy and wonder in every single dish," says Robinson about his fifth Once Upon a Time menu. NEL is known for its themed degustations, also spanning KFC-inspired dinners, Moulin Rouge!-themed and Christmas degustations, and heroing native Australian ingredients in the past. Unsurprisingly, the Once Upon a Time spread is especially popular — and because it serves up new and fresh dishes riffing on the Mouse House's favourites each time, it's always a different experience each year for locals and Disney-adoring visitors to Sydney. Price-wise, this childhood-inspired feast will require an adult salary, costing $185 per person, with beverages matched for an extra $165. Reserving a spot ASAP for dinner Tuesday–Saturday from 5.15pm, and for lunch from 12pm on Saturdays as well, is recommended — this always books out. NEL's Once Upon A Time (Chapter Five) degustation is on offer from Tuesday, April 16–Saturday, August 10, 2024 at 75 Wentworth Avenue, Sydney. For more information or to book, head to the NEL website.
Few things excite the summertime senses of Melbourne folks more than a double scoop of ice cream dripping down their hands as it melts in the hot sun. Aside from complaining about the heat, swatting flies away, and shrimp on the barbie, it's one of the most definitive features of an Australian summer. While there will always be a soft spot in our hearts for corner store Paddle Pops and Golden Gaytimes, it's hard to pass up hand-churned gelato or creative ice cream flavours from one of Melbourne's many boutique vendors. To help you make the difficult decision as to just what icy treat to choose today, we've compiled a list of the best ice cream and gelato in Melbourne. Venture forth on this icy sojourn and work your way through this list over the summer — whether you like your ice cream pure and simple, amped-up with unexpected flavours, wrapped in mochi, sandwiched between pastry or slathered in hot Nutella, we've got you covered. Recommended Reads: The Best Bubble Tea in Melbourne The Best Italian Restaurants in Melbourne The Best Cafes in Melbourne The Best Bakeries in Melbourne Good Daze Canteen, Fitzroy This feel-good, high-spirited and fun-loving ice cream shop was started by a couple of University students who put in countless hours of hard work to bring their dream to life. That dream, to "scoop you away from life's miseries", has created a store that is about more than just ice cream. It's a vibrant hub that celebrates culture and community, which is inspired by the flavours and traditions of the world. Good Daze is inclusive and welcoming, friendly and warm. There are Lacteeze tablets on the counter for any lactose-intolerant customers, there's a suggestion box where you can drop in a flavour from your childhood or culture that you'd love to see on the menu, and there's even unlimited tastes. Whether it's mango sticky rice or Milo malt crunch, Thai milk tea or guava chilli, the ice cream, and the experience, will leave you warm, nostalgic and wanting more. Piccolina Gelateria, Various Melbourne Locations A firm neighbourhood favourite across town, Piccolina has stores in Hawthorn, Richmond, Collingwood, Chadstone, St Kilda and the CBD. All stores sport a Hecker Guthrie-designed fit-out that makes playful nods to the 1950s in southern Italy. It's all about the authentic Italian gelato here. Think varieties like fior di latte, stracciatella, pistachio and lemon, plus refreshing granitas like watermelon, mint and lime. The all-natural flavours are churned using traditional techniques, and this made-from-scratch ethos applies to the nut butters, choco-hazelnut sauce (served from a fountain), caramels and jams too. Hit up any of its locations to find some of the best gelato in Melbourne. Fluffy Torpedo, Fitzroy and Brunswick Fluffy Torpedo is a whimsical shop with lolly-covered floors and handwritten chapters of novels covering the walls, taking creative ice cream flavours to new, wacky levels. We implore you to resist the urge to go with your usual pistachio or vanilla and instead, try something exciting, bizarre and even a little nuts. Here, flavours include the likes of buttered baguette, popcorn, Maltesers and pretzels, pork butter and chilli oil, and salted chilli pineapple with coconut vinegar. If that's not weird enough for you, why not try kalamata olive, blue cheese with roasted fig, hot cinnamon or Vegemite with white chocolate. If anything, it'll be an ice-cream scoop to remember. Kariton Sorbetes, Various Melbourne Locations If you need a break from traditional gelato flavours like hazelnut or pistachio, head to Kariton Sorbetes to experience artisanal flavours inspired by Filipino desserts, cocktails, or local produce. Not only is there a strong focus on creative flavours, but on quality too. Each item is made from scratch, and the small-batch, handcrafted gelato is made using premium ingredients. Signature flavours include the Ube Halaya with purple yam, blackberry jam and caramelised coconut, the Mango Float with dried mango jam and Graham Cracker crumbs, the Miso Dinosaur with malted chocolate ganache and honeycomb, and the Durian Chiffon with palm sugar jelly. Gelato Messina, Various Melbourne Locations It was with open arms that Melbourne welcomed the much-hyped Sydney gelateria onto Fitzroy's Smith Street back in 2013. Now, Gelato Messina has stores in Windsor, Richmond, Malvern and Brunswick East too. The wait for some of the best gelato in Melbourne is notoriously lengthy — in heatwaves and chilly nights alike, lines can snake down the road. But at the front of the line, an epic cabinet is always stocked with around 40 flavours — 35 regulars and five weekly specials — that are made in-house, and with Messina's own milk. While the specials of the week do tend to be extremely popular, signature flavours such as the macadamia crunch, Italian nougat, pandan and coconut sorbet, white chocolate hazelnut and blood orange sorbet, are menu mainstays for good reason. Hareruya Pantry, Carlton and CBD The tiny Japanese convenience store-meets-café specialises in bento and gelato, its name translating to 'sunny shop'. And indeed, it's as cheery as they come, drawing queues from breakfast till dinner. Shelves are stocked with a neat array of takeaway treats and snacks, while at the counter, staff scoop from shiny tubs of gelato. House-made gelato fills the Italian Pozzetti freezer, with a rotating lineup that fuses classic Japanese flavours with Italian techniques. Shirogoma (white sesame), sweet potato, and hojicha cookies and cream are just some of the varieties you might stumble upon. Get yours in a cup or take-home tub, daifuku-style (wrapped in mochi skin), or sandwiched between rice wafer crisps like a traditional monaka. Luna Blu, Elsternwick This petite, suburban gelato store is slinging some of the creamiest treats in town, using top-quality ingredients such as Gippsland milk, free-range Green Eggs and fresh seasonal fruit. The owners are so dedicated to their craft that they went all the way to the Gelato University in Bologna to learn the ins and outs of the industry. Sixteen rotating flavours are made in small batches, based on what's seasonally available. Locals return again and again for classics such as the hazelnut and coffee, and the crowd-favourite roasted strawberry. Specials may include the likes of vanilla bean, raspberry and salted choc chip, tahini with pistachio halva, Earl Grey with straciatella and butter popcorn with brittle. Whether it's an after-school snack, a post-dinner treat, or a way to cool down on a hot summer's day, Luna Blu will bring smiles all round. [caption id="attachment_700646" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Josie Withers via Visit Victoria[/caption] Pidapipo, Various Melbourne Locations All along the Italian side of Lygon Street, we're accustomed to seeing the bright colours of gelato overflowing from the glass-covered containers. At Pidapipo, you will not see any gelato until it is scooped into your cone or cup. Lisa Valmorbida, the owner of Pidapipo, has introduced a stainless steel, Italian-built Pozzetti fridge, where the gelato is stored at an optimal temperature, ensuring you're tasting the gelato at its best. Regular rotating flavours are a mix of Italian gelateria classics, sitting alongside a few experimental test combinations. The hazelnut, fior di latte and pistachio are some of the best out there, but if you are feeling adventurous, try one of the lab creations thought up at Pidapipo Laboratorio in Fitzroy — past creations include coconut, roasted macadamia and white chocolate brownies, mojito sorbetto and fresh milk with dark chocolate. [caption id="attachment_864293" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Shannon McGrath[/caption] Kōri, Hawthorn and CBD Kōri is scooping hand-crafted ice cream flavours, both dairy- and plant-based, with a penchant for the bold and innovative, out of a striking, orange and pink-toned shop on Glenferrie Road. Classic Japanese flavours are reimagined with locally sourced ingredients, featuring seasonal creations that complement year-round signatures on the menu. Heroes include the likes of matcha and pistachio, Hokkaido cheesecake, black sesame and dark chocolate and a frosty take on the Japanese custard dessert 'purin'. Meanwhile, dairy-free diners can look forward to options like yuzu and Fuji apple. Cuppa Turca, Northcote Once you've tried a Turkish-style ice cream sandwich, you may never go back to a "regular" one. Using stretchy Maras ice cream (the stuff can be eaten with a knife and fork) Northcote cafe Cuppa Turca serves the icy treat between two slices of crispy hand-rolled baklava. It's then topped with hot pink Persian fairy floss. For those who are after something a little less extra, there's a more tame version served between two thin wafers. Or you can just have a scoop on its own, with flavours including feta and melon, mint and brownie and Turkish delight. Whatever you pick, order it with a cup of coffee made on hot sand. Change things up a little next time you're after ice cream and gelato in Melbourne. [caption id="attachment_700643" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Julian Kingma for Visit Victoria[/caption] Gelateria Primavera, Melbourne CBD Sitting quietly on the Parliament end of the city inside Spring Street Grocer, Gelateria Primavera has held down a reputation as one of the best artisanal gelaterias in Melbourne for some time now. Similarly to Pidapipo, it uses the Pozzetti storage tubs to house the gelato out of sight and ready to be eaten at the best possible temperature. The menu changes daily, but you can always find something to suit your taste made from premium seasonal ingredients. Crowd favourites include the salted caramel, hazelnut, mango passionfruit sorbet and creamy lemon gelato, but keep your eye out for specials including the likes of apple crumble and banana and dark choc chip. While you savour your creamy cone, peruse the immaculately stocked shelves of the specialty grocer. Billy Van Creamery, Fitzroy North How Billy Van Creamy managed to churn out some of Melbourne's best ice cream from a truck is still a mystery. But you no longer need to go looking for its wheels, because as of 2018, BVC opened a permanent bricks-and-mortar shop in Fitzroy North. As before, the gelato is made by hand with all-natural ingredients like organic milk, crunchy nuts and vanilla beans. The rotating selection of flavours includes salted caramel, espresso, honeycomb and an incredibly rich vanilla bean ice cream. There are also a host of vegan flavours, of which you can't go past the peanut butter chocolate chip. Zero Gradi, Various Locations Because conquering the pizza world isn't enough, 400 Gradi also has its own gelateria, which is home to traditional Neapolitan-style gelato. Classic and rotating flavour specials include pistachio, Oreo, peanut Nutella and Ferrero Rocher. It also features Nutella and chocolate taps, allowing you to take things up a notch. Good luck narrowing your choices down to just one. Granita, Italian pastries, cakes and coffee are also on offer. And, of course, some of the best pizza in Melbourne. Feature image: Luna Blu, Supplied.
Sorry, music lovers — you won't be making the pilgrimage to the Supernatural Amphitheatre in 2022, because Golden Plains has just announced that it won't be returning next year. Meredith's other beloved festival (the one that isn't literally called Meredith Music Festival), it was hoping to return in March; however, in a statement released today, Friday, November 19, organisers have advised that that won't be possible. "We tried incredibly hard to make it happen. Turned every stone a hundred times. Looked at it from every possible, and impossible, angle. We allowed as much time and space as we could," the Aunty team announced. "In the end, there wasn't any one single thing that knocked it out. More a seriously sizeable series of things which proved — at this particular moment in time, for our particular circumstances — insurmountable for Golden Plains to take flight." Catering to 12,000 punters each year across three days and two nights — when it goes ahead, that is — the fest has long proven a favourite for its one-stage setup, which skips the need for frantic timetabling. And, like sibling festival Meredith, Golden Plains is also known for the Aunty crew's star-studded lineups. In good news for that other fest, however, Meredith is still set to take place in December 2022 — after sitting out this year, just as it did in 2020. It's obviously far too early for lineup details but, when it returns, it'll be celebrating its 30th fest. And, as for Golden Plains, mark March 2023 in your diary now. If that'll leave a gap in your 2022 festival schedule, a heap of other music fests around Victoria have been locking in their plans for the new few months — including Boiler Room x Sugar Mountain, So Frenchy So Chic, For the Love, new touring fest Summer Camp and Beyond the City. Golden Plains won't return in 2022, with further details available via the festival's website. Images: Steve Benn / Theresa Harrison
It might sound wrong to hit up an indoor pool in summer, but this is Melbourne — who knows what the weather is going to be? To ensure you'll get a dip in no matter whether the rain is pouring down, the W Melbourne crew is coaxing swimmers to its luxe pool overlooking the city with its WET Sessions. From 12pm each Sunday until March 3, partygoers can enjoy the poolside bar, panoramic views of the city's skyline and a fresh DJ taking over the decks each week. This space is usually only open to hotel guests, so it's your rare chance to paddle about one of the city's finest pools. [caption id="attachment_889782" align="alignnone" width="1920"] C Hawks[/caption] For $95 per person, you'll have access to the pool for three hours, get a cocktail on arrival and indulge in roaming snacks to keep you going throughout the afternoon — whether that's to keep you energised for swimming some laps or just to have a poolside dance, it's up to you. Prefer a more chill swimming experience on the weekend? Check out some of Melbourne's best outdoor pools, where you can swim some laps, paddle about aimlessly or simply sit under a tree reading a good book.
The newly opened Aromi is a restaurant you'll want to leave your neighbourhood for — unless you're lucky enough to live in Brighton, that is. Then, we're sure, you're about to start throwing around 'ciao bellos' with owners Paolo Masciopinto and Salvatore Montella on a regular basis. Masciopinto and Montella, having worked together for five years at Bar Carolina and Sarti, saw an opportunity to open their own place — and jumped. The resulting 44-seater restaurant is elegant and intimate. Perch at the black granite bar with a view into the kitchen, at a table in the dining room or at a stool looking out the window. Wherever you sit, make sure you check out the vertical wall filled with rosemary, thyme and marjoram before you leave. It's the inspiration behind the restaurant's name: 'aromi', which means 'aromas' in Italian. And aromas are an important part of the dining experience at Aromi, with Masciopinto telling us "smell can bring you back to places or bring back memories". Taste, of course, is equally important here and all the food is made from scratch, including the bread and the pasta. The menu has many sections that you'll want to work your way through — we recommend you invite a friend or two (or go back several times solo) so you can savour the full range. Start with the stuzzichini (meaning finger food) of gnocco fritto — light, crisp pillows of fried gnocchi — with soft cheese and wagyu bresaola ($5) and Geelong piquillo peppers, marinated and stuffed with goat's cheese and topped with black garlic ($4). And, they're not lying, you really should eat these with your hands. Move on to antipasti, and, perhaps, order the scallops, potato and truffle ($14) and the soft shell crab ($8). If you do, ask for extra bread so you can mop up every last drop of the sauce. Then, when in Rome, do as the proverbial Romans do and choose a pasta or risotto before your main course. The spaghetto ($34) is made with tomato in both the dough and sauce, crab meat strewn throughout and macadamias scattered on top. For secondi, we choose the crisp-skinned barramundi, which arrives atop a cauliflower purée and topped with capers and spinach leaves ($39). If you've made it the end of the menu, well done — we suggest you finish with the popcorn and salted caramel ice creams ($7), which look like mini Magnums and land on your table stuck into a tiny log. The wine list is tight, favouring Italian wines but with a few Australian and New Zealand wines included for good measure. One to note is the Don Chisciotte fiano by Pierluigi Zampaglione. Grown at 800 metres and fermented in stainless steel for six months, this orange-tinted wine smells like mountain herbs and has a fresh, mineral flavour. When Montella tried it, he was surprised at how much it differed from the fianos he grew up drinking — so surprised, in fact, that he purchased all 1000 bottles the supplier had. While you're there, you should also try a cocktail or gin. Bar manager Luca Masciulli has devoted a page of the drinks menu to local and international gin-makers, matching each gin to a different tonic. The cocktail list changes every week and Masciulli's latest creation is a margherita (yes, the pizza) drink made with piquillo jam-infused coconut tequila and garnished with a mozzarella, basil and tomato pane carasau (Sardinian crisp flatbread), which balances precariously on top of the glass. As you leave, you'll be given a plantable thank you card, which you can then use to grow your own basil, thyme and memories. Images: Silvia Zanone.
Surrounded by towering mountain vistas, Ayrburn is the brand-new must-visit destination in New Zealand's Arrowtown, just 20 minutes from Queenstown. The ambitious precinct already features six venues plus its own vineyard — and it's expanding. Still to come is a flagship fine-diner, a butcher, a bakehouse, luxury housing and a hotel right by a waterfall. The mind behind the project, Chris Meehan of Winton Property Group, hopes the destination can become the top most visited attraction in Queenstown, with the precinct designed to be a year-round hub for holidays. Snow-capped mountains in the winter, mild summers that never tip past 30 degrees, and Arrowtown's famous changing of the leaves in autumn provide the backdrop for a genuinely impressive food and drink program. As you wander through the precinct, the smell of a fire and the sound of a trickling creek are never too far away. This idyllic atmosphere persists across the six distinct venues that are already open at Ayrburn, each of which serves its own purpose. The Menure Room (named after its previous occupation) serves as a hybrid wine bar, pub and cellar door. The menu here provides pieces of advice like "drink some wine, talk some sh*t", with Central Otago vino at the centre of its offerings — particularly Ayrburn's own already award-winning range. You can taste your way through these outstanding drops with the wine flight of your choice, pairing the samples with moreish share plates of gildas, chicken liver parfait on brioche, and caramelised cauliflower croquettes. The Woolshed has more of a focus on homely cooking and sizeable cuts of meat, functioning as a sleek yet approachable bistro for long lunches and celebratory dinners. Must-try menu highlights here include the Southland venison tataki paired with nashi pair, spring onion, togarashi and coriander; and the grilled octopus with a chilli sesame dressing. There's three more venues comprising The Burr Bar, a breezy spot up on the hill serving inventive takes on margaritas and gin sours; The Dairy, where you'll find scoops of black forest or salted caramel ice cream; and The Dell, an outdoor meeting area built to facilitate events and live entertainment. The latest space to open at Ayrburn is the Barrel Room — a moody private bar and diner lined with wine barrels and sporting a lavish fitout complete with a baby grand piano. Shut out from the outside world with low lighting and an expansive dining room, this hidden adult playground will have you whiling away the hours over great food and wine, losing track as time passes by. Yet to arrive is the flagship venue Billy's which will open towards the end of 2024. Set in a huge homestead-style building, the 170-capacity pièce de résistance of the Ayrburn dining precinct has been billed as an experiential dining experience with each room consisting of its own unique theme. Open 12 months of the year, Ayrburn is another reason to spend a ski season hitting the slopes in Queenstown, but it's also a reminder that New Zealand's show-stoppingly stunning South Island should be at the top of your travel hit list all year round, especially for any foodies and all of the wine aficionados out there. You'll find Ayrburn at 1 Ayr Avenue, Arrowtown. Head to the precinct's website for more information on each of its venues.
This Just in: Beachside beauty Pipi's Kiosk is setting up a second outpost this summer; however, it's not sticking around for long. Open now until the end of February, Pipi's North is bringing the team's signature seafood offering all the way to Fitzroy. Pipi's Kiosk is a hidden gem along Melbourne's generally underutilised foreshore. The picturesque restaurant, which sits unassumingly on the Albert Park waterfront adjacent to Kerferd Road Pier, is changing the way Melburnians perceive seaside dining — for the better. Self-described as a contemporary Australian Kiosk, the refined beachside diner is the work of co-owners Jordan Clay and Tom Hunter, both with decades of hospitality experience. Now Hunter (Director and Head Sommelier) and Clay (Executive Chef) will take over the former Alta Trattoria site on Brunswick Street, bringing a taste of the seaside to the North. Inspired by the sun-soaked tapas bars of the Basque Coast, the relaxed space will serve snacky bites made for easygoing sharing. Pipi's Kiosk Head Chef will join the pop-up, bringing with him his sensible approach to sustainable Australian seafood. The seafood-focused sharing menu features a few of Pipi's favourites, including the flatbread and salt-and-pepper squid. You'll also find moreish mouthfuls, such as mini crab crumpets, prawn tempura, and swordfish belly skewers, alongside more substantial offerings, such as a fresh seafood tower. While seafood may take centre stage, drinks are certainly no afterthought. Hunter has curated a concise, approachable list of small-batch Australian producers. Don't miss the Salty Sips special, which includes 30ml samples of coastal-inspired delights such as Laphroaig and oyster shots, tomato leaf spirit, and Pipi's Seaside Salad Gin with Fino sherry. Head to the pop-up for its Half Shucked Happy Hour, available from 4 to 6pm daily, featuring $4 oysters, $16 Melbourne Bitter long necks, and $50 half bottles of wine. "We're looking to bring some seaside vibes north of the river over summertime – hot nights, cold drinks and lots of fresh seafood. Pipis North is relaxed, fun and very much about popping in for a drink and a bite – whether that's a quick skewer and oyster or settling in for the night." Images: Supplied. Pipi's North will run from Saturday, January 17, until the end of February. It will be open from Wednesday to Friday from 4pm until late, and from Midday on the weekends. Check out the best seafood restaurants in Melbourne while the sun is still shining.
Once again, the Chinatown Precinct is going all out for Lunar New Year, closing off Little Bourke Street (between Swanston Street and Exhibition Street) on Sunday, February 2 for a massive street party. During the day, you can expect to find plenty of food stalls, local restaurant dining deals, cultural performances, a dragon parade, blessings, live music, a kids' area (with face-painting and craft classes) and a big pop-up beer garden. The official party lasts from 10am–8pm, but the street will be closed to cars until 2am — letting folks carry on at nearby late-night bars and BYO restaurants. But the festivities aren't only taking place on Sunday, February 2. The Museum of Chinese Australian History is also running a couple of different exhibitions from Saturday, January 25, and hosting a series of Shaolin kung fu performances on Saturday, February 1 and Sunday, February 2. Simply rock up to the museum's Shaolin Temple from 7.30-9pm on these days to find the monks putting on a show. The museum has even teamed up with nearby restaurants to run a couple of cultural tours and dinners. On Thursday, February, 6, punters can pay an easy $88 for a culinary talk paired with an 11-course feed at Chine on Paramount. And the following day, on Friday, February 7, museum staff will take visitors on a guided tour of Chinatown, which ends at Longrain — where guests can enjoy a big Lunar New Year set menu ($148 per person). [caption id="attachment_787188" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Longrain by Eugene Hyland[/caption] Lord Mayor Nick Reece shared, "There is only one place to ring in the Chinese Lunar New Year and that's at our historic Chinatown Precinct." "Last year, more than 200,000 people flocked to Chinatown to celebrate and with new activations galore I can't wait to see what's in store as we make new memories and transition from the dragon to the snake." The Melbourne Chinatown Precinct's 2025 Lunar New Year block party is running on Sunday, February 2. For more details on this event and other LNY celebrations, you can visit the Melbourne Chinatown Business Association's website.
In mid-2024, a new player stepped up to bat in the Australian hospitality scene, and quickly became one of Melbourne's top hotels. The StandardX is the latest brainchild of Standard International, known for its lifestyle hotels in cosmopolitan hotspots like New York, Miami and London. But The StandardX is a new direction for the brand. The Fitzroy concept acts as "a rebellious younger sibling" of The Standard Hotels across the globe, distilling The Standard experience to its "x factor", and going for a more minimalist and cool approach. It seems that Fitzroy is the perfect location for the new concept. Melbourne's own Hecker Guthrie has infused the hotel's 125 rooms and public spaces with a contemporary yet unpretentious aesthetic. Macrame-clad pillars, a fireplace in the lobby and a warm colour palette also give the entire property a cosy charm. As for the food, don't expect the standard fare of a hotel restaurant. A residency program has seen a selection of some of Melbourne's finest chefs taking their place in the Bistro X kitchen, including none other than legendary Shannon Bennett. Next up on the pans is Executive Chef Ben John, who was previously the Head Chef of the hatted Pure South Dining. John says, "I'm thrilled to take the helm at Bistro X and build on the foundation that we've already created here. My focus is on creating something that's true to Melbourne, celebrating local ingredients and familiar flavours; bringing the best of Victoria's produce to the Fitzroy community with a relaxed flair." On his menu, expect hyper-seasonal and locally sourced products, creating dishes as Hawkes Farm potato rosti with yellowfin tuna, asparagus with egg, cream and tarragon, Goldband spanner with broadbeans and sorrel and harissa roast chook with witlof and mignonette. A new chef is not the only exciting addition coming to Bistro X. Tuesday nights will now see the introduction of $35 steak night, featuring a 250 gram wagyu MBS3 rump steak. On the weekends, you can expect to find a coffee cart offering takeout coffees and pastries, perfect for a stroll around the area. And on Fridays and Saturdays, guests can now enjoy a $75 prix fixe lunch menu, or a $110 set dinner menu. The rooftop bar, On Top, was recently opened to the public, and is the perfect spot to enjoy a cocktail after dinner, or before a night out, or at 10am — it's a hotel, after all. With panoramic city views and the privacy that comes with exclusivity, it's a pretty nice spot to have a sip and take in the majesty of the Melbourne skyline for locals and tourists alike. The StandardX has quickly solidified its place as a premium choice for travellers and Melburnians looking for a unique hotel experience that blends luxury with Fitzroy's artistic and cultural heritage. Images: Supplied.
For more than two decades, acclaimed New York artist Spencer Tunick has been staging mass nude photographs in Australia — and he isn't done yet. Sydneysiders, or anyone who's keen to disrobe for a new piece of art, you'll want to be in the Harbour City at the end of November. Your destination: a yet-to-be-disclosed beach. It's been 21 years since the country's first taste of the internationally famed talent's work, when 4500 naked volunteers posed for a snap near Federation Square in Melbourne as part of the 2001 Fringe Festival. Tunick then photographed around 5000 nude people in front of the Sydney Opera House during the 2010 Mardi Gras, headed back to Melbourne in 2018 shoot over 800 Melburnians in the rooftop carpark of a Prahran Woolworths, and went to the Whitsundays with almost 100 Aussies in 2019. Elsewhere, he's photographed the public painted red and gold outside Munich's Bavarian State Opera, covered in veils in the Nevada desert and covered in blue in Hull in the UK. But with his new Aussie installation, he's getting sandy and raising funds for — and awareness about — skin cancer. Saturday, November 26 is the date earmarked for the shoot, with Sunday, November 27 on hold in case the weather isn't quite right for naked folks on the beach. Tunick is hoping to amass around 2500 volunteers, with each participant honouring one of the 2000-plus Aussies who pass away each year due to skin cancer. "Skin unites us and protects us. It's an honour to be a part of an art mission to raise awareness of the importance of skin checks. I use the amazing array of body types and skin tones to create my work, so it feels perfectly appropriate to take part in this effort in that my medium is the nude human form," said Tunick, announcing his new installation. "It is only fitting that I use my platform to urge people to get regular check-ups to prevent skin cancer. I have not had a skin check in ten years, so I am one of the many who have wrongly ignored getting them regularly. One can say I am traveling all the way to Australia to get one!", Tunick continued. Dubbed Strip Off for Skin Cancer, the artist's latest work is timed to coincide with National Skin Cancer Action Week, which runs from Monday, November 21–Sunday, November 27 — and it is looking for volunteers. Tunick hopes to have a diverse mix of bodies in the shoot, with participants each getting a print of the photograph and, we're sure, a big boost of body confidence. The catch here is, of course, the location. Exact details of where the shoot is taking place will only be given to folks signing up — but if you're not usually located in Sydney, you will need to travel there at your expense. Those that do will not only be part of a piece art, but will also help a great cause. Strip Off for Skin Cancer will be shot on Saturday, November 26 on a Sydney beach. Head to the installation's website to register to take part. Images: Spencer Tunick.
Over the past month, Arnott's has been unveiling a new recipe for one of its famed bikkies every week. As part of the snack expert's Big Recipe Release, it has unveiled its Monte Carlo, four-ingredient Scotch Finger and Iced VoVo recipes, as well as a twist on its Tim Tam: a salted almond Tim Tam brownie. This week, it's thrown us another curveball. The recipe isn't for one of its sweet snacks; instead, like the Tim Tam brownie, it uses one of its sweet snacks. The key ingredient this time is Nice biscuits, which you'll use as a sugar-dusted base for a silky but classic cheesecake. Obviously, the new recipe still ticks another very important box: giving everyone currently working from home — or just spending more time indoors than usual — something different to bake. Australia's oldest baker will continue to release a new recipe for one of its famous biscuits every week until social distancing regulations are lifted. Next up, will it be the Mint Slice? Pizza Shapes? We'll have to wait and see. In the meantime, though, here's the classic Nice cheesecake recipe: https://www.instagram.com/p/CAeYW1GgwSs/ CLASSIC NICE CHEESECAKE 1 250 gram packet of Arnott's Nice biscuits 125 grams melted butter 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 2 250 gram packets of cream cheese, at room temperature 3 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 cup caster sugar Method BASE: Preheat the oven to 150°C. Grease a 20 centimetre (base measurement) springform tin. Place Arnott's Nice biscuits and cinnamon in the bowl of a food processor, then process until biscuits are finely crushed. Add melted butter, then process until combined. Transfer mixture to the prepared tin — and, using the back of a spoon, press over the base and up the sides of the tin until it is spread evenly. Refrigerate for 30 minutes, or until needed, to ensure a firm crust. FILLING: Combine cream cheese, sugar and vanilla extract in a medium bowl, then beat until well mixed. Add eggs one by one, beating well after each addition. Pour mixture over the biscuit base. Bake for 50 minutes, or until set. Turn the oven off, but leave the cheesecake in the oven with door ajar until it has completely cooled — as this will help prevent the cheesecake from cracking. TIPS: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to your cream cheese mixture for extra flavour. Replace the cinnamon with mixed spice for a twist. Serve with your favourite berries and double cream. If you don't have a food processor, you can crush the biscuits it the old-fashioned way — by placing them in a zip lock bag and crushing with a rolling pin. Top image: Arnott's
Tucked within an industrial space on Plenty Road, Sartoria is having little trouble filling its many seats with bums, even though it's still early days. Sure, that's potentially an upshot of Preston's slow-blooming café scene, though on closer inspection, it's pretty clear these guys have found a winning formula, location aside. The fit-out gives a big nod to the building's history, though stops short of over-the-top gimmickry. Instead, you'll spy considered touches, like dressmaking patterns sketched onto table tops, spools of thread lining the front window, and vintage sewing machine bases standing in for table legs. It adds the perfect dose of character, pulling in the edges of the sprawling space and warming up all those industrial elements. An eye-catching orange La Marzocco pumps out full-bodied coffee from local roasters, Where's Marcel? ($3.30-3.80), with a rotating single origin, batch brew ($4.20) and cold drip ($5.50) also on offer. But when those weekend vibes are truly calling, you'll find it hard to pass over the selection of brunch cocktails — maybe a Bloody Mary with crispy prosciutto ($14) for that hangover, or a jug of Magic Indian Sangria ($28) shared between friends. Meanwhile, the menu's one to get really excited about, boasting a slew of innovative dishes and contemporary riffs on the classics, all fittingly named and prettily plated. For The Seamstress, a waffle hash brown – arguably the most genius hybrid creation of the year – carries beetroot segments, a pair of poached eggs and dollops of goats' curd and pea puree ($18). Equally tasty is The Machinist: cubes of Asian-spiced pork hock teamed with crumbed black pudding, poached eggs, a house-made crostino and zingy romesco salsa ($19). Further into the day, lunch offerings include a handful of larger dishes and paninis, though the all-in New York Brunch ($19) is surely a good call any time of day. Smart brunch fare, contemporary digs and daytime cocktails — it's probably safe to say Sartoria has the area's café needs all sewn up. Images: Thanh Do.
Pitch Music & Arts Festival is back for 2020, this time with an even bigger lineup of electronic acts and visual art on display. The event will again take over Mafeking — about three hours northwest of Melbourne — from Friday, March 6 to Tuesday, March 10. The BYO camping festival is brought to you by the team behind Beyond the Valley, who will set up a satellite community out in the bush and invite festival-goers to pitch a tent — camping is included in your weekend ticket, or splash out extra for a glamping setup — then fully immerse themselves in the weekend's festivities. Expect a bunch of house, techno and disco tracks over the four days, with 47 music acts on the bill. The international 2020 lineup features Russia's Nina Kraviz; Berlin-based DJ Objekt; Midland (UK); South Korea's cosmic disco DJ Shubostar; Aurora Halal (US) who'll be playing a live set; Canadian techno pioneer Richie Hawtin; Ben UFO (UK); and genre-defying selector Hunee (The Netherlands) of Rush Hour Recordings; and new label Lifetones. Local names like Kllo, Moopie, Hiatus Kaiyote, Fantastic Man, Collarbones and Late Nite Tuff Guy are also on the docket. On the art side of things, you can expect CGI, spacial design and light installations from a host of local and international artists and creative companies, all of which are arranged to interact with the festival at large. Images: Duncographic.
Melbourne loves coffee — this is obvious when a new café opens and on its second day people are lining up outside the door. Industry Beans knows a thing or two about coffee and is pushing the caffeinated boundaries just a little. Brothers Trevor and Steve Simmons from Penny Farthing in Northcote have taken what was their roastery in Fitzroy and opened an on-site café. When it comes to their coffee offering, they really mean business. After sourcing beans from all over the world the guys over at Industry Beans put a lot of their energy into the on-site roasting to bring out the best characteristics they can. Single origins come from anywhere from Brazil to Kenya, while the house blend is a beautiful mix of chocolate and hazelnut notes, a perfect combination to milk. Not just a roastery or a place for top-notch coffee, Industry Beans Café is creating buzz for its food, too. The menu boasts an interesting selection, showing loads of personality and originality. The large menu has something for everyone. A Melbourne favourite is given a unique twist in the avocado smash with whipped ricotta, orange lime gel and green tea salt on sourdough. Other unique brunch items include the likes of a pandan bubble waffle with blueberry gelato and a banana coconut foam, and folded eggs teamed with sous vide barramundi, sambal oelek and coffee togarashi. Plus, a coffee-rubbed wagyu burger starring pickled zucchini and chilli jam. The space itself is stripped back and industrial, yet comfortable with bright white interiors accompanied by leafy vines adorning the floating beams — it's the kind of cafe that makes you want to linger.
When Toko closed in Prahan, Tokosan took its place — with a focus on cocktails, karaoke and a casual Japanese snack menu. It also brought with it something to make both your stomach and your wallet happy. On Tuesdays it's honing in on sushi with endless supplies for just $20. There's a selection of rolls and temaki — and options for vegetarians too — so gather the gang for a cheap feast. And if you haven't been to the venue before, Tokosan's outdoor lounge courtyard is a pretty good place to make your debut. Doors open at 5pm and, to sweeten the deal, a happy hour with $10 cocktails and $5 beer and wine runs until 7pm.
Fitzroy Nursery is heaven on earth for plant lovers. Whether you're obsessed with peace lilies or can't stop yourself from accumulating more and more kokedama (a type of Japanese hanging plant), you'll find it here. Having operated for 30 years, it's hard to imagine what Brunswick Street would look like without it. Seasonal fruits, citrus varieties and countless succulents cheerfully mingle within the outdoor nursery, while the interior is filled to the brim with a strange collection of rare flora. Hot tip: there's also an upstairs section that's home to a few handmade furniture items, like smooth concrete planters and colourful watering cans.
Frankston has a charming restaurant and bar situated in Frankston Yacht Club: Oliver's Corner. While the airy interior is welcoming, outdoor seating might just be the highlight of this spot, as it boasts uninterrupted foreshore views of the Mornington Peninsula and has direct access to Frankston Pier. Meanwhile, the all-day menu offers everything from a reimagined eggs benny for breakfast, right through to the likes of daily curry and fish specials for lunch. The menu also offers a wide range of well-chosen wines (many from Victoria), as well as spirits and classic cocktails. Oliver's Corner might also be home to one of the city's best happy hours, with $9 selected wines and $7 tap beers from Tuesday through Friday each week – with the unbeatable views free of charge, naturally. Live performances also take place every week — just be sure to check the website for the lineup.
Want a New Year's Eve party without fighting the CBD gridlock? Melbourne's suburbs are turning it on this year with rooftop fireworks, beachfront dance floors, free-flowing drinks and parties that go well past midnight. Loyalty program, The Pass, is hosting a number of New Year's Eve celebrations outside of the CBD to send off 2025 in style. From a Fitzroy rooftop to a beachside bash, here's where you and your mates can celebrate. The Espy Kick off 2026 at St Kilda's iconic Hotel Esplanade. Settle in with a four-hour drinks package featuring tap beer, cider, house bubbles, wine and soft drinks, plus roaming canapés and grazing bites to keep you going all night. For $160 per person, you'll also get access to Chromeo's live DJ countdown set in The Gersh, the electro-funk duo behind Jealous (I Ain't With It) and Fancy Footwork will lead you into 2026 in style. DJs and entertainment will fill every corner of the venue, bringing in the New Year in true Espy fashion. Plus, Mya Tiger and Louey's Bar & Restaurant are offering additional packages if you're looking to level up your night. Buy your tickets at The Espy's website. [caption id="attachment_1049171" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Village Belle[/caption] Village Belle If you're looking for another beachside party, fellow St Kilda pub, the Village Belle, is ringing in 2026 with a night of celebrations. For $135 per person, you'll be on the receiving end of four hours of bottomless drinks and roaming canpés that kick off from 7pm. Live bands and DJs will keep the energy high, and you can expect a packed dance floor. Tables are first in, best dressed, so be sure to head down to the Village Belle early to make the most of the night. Secure your tickets at the Village Belle's website. [caption id="attachment_1049170" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Harlow[/caption] Harlow You don't have to be lined up on the Yarra River to watch the city's fireworks. Richmond pub, Harlow, is farewelling 2025 with sweeping views of the city fireworks at midnight. You can enjoy the New Year's Eve rooftop party with a four-hour drinks package and roaming canapés from 7pm. Early bird tickets start from $100 per person. If you're looking for something more casual, Harlow's Basement will be home to DJs until late. Book your tickets at Harlow's website. [caption id="attachment_1003848" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Public House[/caption] Public House Richmond's multi-level party palace is back with another New Year's Eve bash. Public House's party kicks off at 7.30pm with bottomless tap beer, house wine, and roaming canapés. DJs will be on deck to spin tunes right up until 2am. Want to level up the night? For only $10 more, you can purchase VIP rooftop tickets for front-row access to the CBD's fireworks, as well as having basic spirits included in your four-hour package. Balcony tickets start from $95, with Rooftop VIP tickets coming in at $105. Find your tickets at Public House's website. [caption id="attachment_1049181" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Fargo and Co[/caption] Fargo and Co Housed in the former State Bank, this historic building is home to another Richmond party this New Year's Eve. From 7–11pm, Fargo and Co will be pouring drinks, serving roaming canapés and hosting DJs to get the dance floor pumping. First-release tickets start at $79, but if you want to start early, Fargo and Co are open from 2–6 pm for walk-ins and casual bookings to get you NYE-ready. Grab your spot at Fargo and Co's website. [caption id="attachment_750545" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Provincial Hotel[/caption] Provincial Hotel Looking for a northside haunt? The Provincial Hotel in Fitzroy is hosting a rooftop party this New Year's Eve. From 7–11pm there'll be four hours of selected cocktails, beer, wine, spirits, and even an oyster station. Roaming canapés and a churro chocolate fountain will help you to send off 2025 in style. DJs will spin tracks from 7pm, and a roaming saxophonist will soundtrack the evening's festivities. Enjoy views of the city skyline on the rooftop and get ready to ring in 2026. Early bird tickets start from $159, with first and second release increasing by $10. Book your tickets at the Provincial Hotel's website. [caption id="attachment_1049167" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Anglers Tavern[/caption] Anglers Tavern Party into 2026 at Anglers Tavern's all-white dress-up New Year's Eve party on the Maribyrnong River. Expect a high-energy night with exclusive upstairs access, nonstop DJs spinning R&B, house and party anthems, fire performers, roaming dancers and prime views of the 10pm and midnight waterfront fireworks. Select tickets include three hours of bottomless drinks and premium roaming canapés. Dress in white, arrive ready to party, and celebrate the end of 2025. Book your tickets at Eventbrite. [caption id="attachment_1049166" align="alignleft" width="1920"] West Beach Pavilion[/caption] West Beach Pavilion West Beach Pavilion is seeing off 2025 with a beachside celebration. The venue will ease into the afternoon as usual, but from early evening, the focus shifts to new cabana experiences made for sunset and fireworks. From 6pm, guests can book a Sunset Cabana Package — a two-hour session ($200) that includes a bottle of rosé, white, red or sparkling. Later, a NYE Cabana Package offers an 8.30–9pm arrival and guarantees your cabana through midnight, with grazing platters and a bottle of wine included ($300). Those seeking a more relaxed experience can opt for free table bookings at 6pm, 8pm, or 10pm. After 9pm, the Pavilion switches to guestlist-only entry. It's free to sign up, but spots are limited. Expect DJ sets, cocktails and beachside access for the fireworks. Book your sunset spot at West Beach Pavilion's website. [caption id="attachment_854105" align="alignleft" width="1920"] College Lawn Hotel[/caption] College Lawn Hotel Kick-start 2026 at the College Lawn in Prahran. This daytime party kicks off from 2pm with a complimentary glass of bubbles and a three-hour beverage package. You can indulge in a bottomless barbecue feast in the beer garden before ringing in the New Year at midnight. The afternoon event starts at $100 per person. Book your tickets at the College Lawn Hotel's website. For more information on The Pass and other venues, head to the website.
The CBD's massive new entertainment and dining precinct has arrived — and it's a triple threat. Ella has a street art gallery, a live music venue and a food-filled laneway that includes outposts from some of the city's favourite eateries. The precinct spans a whopping 2500-square-metres and takes inspiration from the food-filled train stations in Asia. It's the latest creation by the GPT Group, which also developed next-door Melbourne Central. As far as food goes, Ella is home to ramen, fried chicken, momos and Israeli classics created by some of the city's most loved eateries. These include Colours Bowls, the latest plant-based offering by young gun chef Charlie Carrington (of South Yarra's hatted Atlas Dining); Korean fried chicken joint Sam Sam; Pick a Stick Chinese Skewers by the Dainty Sichuan team; and a new concept by Collingwood's Son in Law, dubbed The Pad, which serves up Thai street food. Already located in the space are Nepalese restaurant Chilli Everest and Japanese noodle shop Ajisen Ramen, both of which have reopened with a new fit-out for the Ella launch. A second outpost of Collingwood's hospitality hub and co-working space Worksmith will round out the initial openings — when it's open it will come complete with a drinks lab and events space. Apart from the extensive food offering, expect live gigs by emerging and established musicians to be on offer several days per week — the precinct has been given special acoustic treatment for just this purpose. Local Melbourne artists will pull together the soundtrack on nights without gigs, and the app crowdDJ will be on offer for visitors to to choose their own tunes, too. Melbourne street art will also be on display, covering a dedicated mural wall that will be continuously refreshed by local artists. Phase two of Ella's openings will happen June 27, when bottle shop Blackheart & Sparrows launches, followed by a new cocktail bar by famed bartender Luke Whearty (of Singapore's award-winning Operation Dagger) called Byrdi. Further openings are expected in early 2020, too. Ella is now open at the corner of Elizabeth and La Trobe streets. Opening hours are 10am–10pm, daily. To check each restaurant's opening hours, head to the website.
You've probably heard a thing or two about POP MART. In recent times, the Chinese toy maker has taken the world by storm with its viral figurines and plush monsters, like the all-conquering Labubu. Now the brand is ready to launch its newest Melbourne location on Bourke Street, with the ribbon being cut on Saturday, July 19. This is no ordinary POP MART store either. Themed entirely around one of the brand's most iconic characters, SKULLPANDA, motifs of this dark and whimsical symbiont will make the destination an even more immersive visit for fans and curious shoppers. This approach to store design is just one way POP MART is changing the retail game in Australia. "Bourke Street is one of Melbourne's most iconic shopping strips and the perfect place for us to grow our community," says POP MART Australia and New Zealand General Manager Yuki Wu. "This store's SKULLPANDA theme sets it apart. We're inviting fans to step inside a world they know and love, discover exclusive products, and be part of something special." Inside, visitors can expect wall-to-wall collectibles, from limited-edition releases to new arrivals that you won't find anywhere else. Plus, launch events are planned across the opening weekend, including a special guest appearance that might send fans into a tizzy. Get down from 10 am to see the ribbon cut and be among the first to explore this striking retail concept.
Our city's urban landscape has inspired some pretty nifty haunts over the years, from rooftop Airstream hotels to bars inside disused trams. But it feels like we're about to reach peak Melbourne with the arrival of Whitehart, a double-decker container bar that's hidden down a CBD laneway and sporting a very healthy dose of street art. The brainchild of husband and wife duo Stephen Johnson and Sabrina Santucci, the bar has breathed new life into a former carpark just off Little Bourke Street, with the pair drawing inspiration from the most memorable drinking spots they've encountered on their overseas jaunts. The bar is an urban oasis with a mix of indoor and openair spaces, plus multi-storey art installations and striking wall projections courtesy of local design studio Daisylegs. Throw in a considered lineup of craft brews, boutique wines and signature cocktails, and eats from a selection of the city's food vendors, and we've got one hell of a new CBD watering hole.
Last week in Sydney, a Heartbreak High-themed uniform shop in Newtown was handing out free threads. This week, handmaids are taking over the Pitt Street Mall in their red-hued attire. Ever wondered what the Harbour City would look like if it fell under Gilead's reach — and no, we're not talking about the Sydney's masterplanned community called Gilead? Then you just need to pop by the CBD to find out. Whether you're a local or you'll just be visiting this week, you can spot SBS' The Handmaid's Tale pop-up opposite Myer until Sunday, September 25. The show returned just last week, on Thursday, September 15, for its fifth and penultimate season, if you're wondering why Australia is currently under his eye. Visitors to the Pitt Street Mall will spot two things: a shop window filled with red-dressed mannequins, all wearing the requisite handmaids' getup, and also a real-life handmaid keeping watch. The inspiration for filling a store display with handmaid attire, other than celebrating the series? A quote from the show: "they should have never given us uniforms if they didn't want us to be an army". And the vibe? Not quite on the eerie level of the show's 2017 SXSW promotional stunt, which saw the Austin festival filled with handmaids — a concept that hit Sydney as well in 2018 — but expect to feel tense anyway. It's been a big year or so around Australia for these kinds of pop culture-themed displays, including a Rick and Morty #wormageddon scene in Sydney also this month, and everything from House of the Dragon, The Gray Man and Everything Everywhere All At Once through to Squid Game, Stranger Things and Borat-inspired fun across both the NSW capital and Melbourne. This is the only one that'll have you saying "praise be" and "blessed be", though. Find SBS' The Handmaid's Tale pop-up in Sydney's Pitt Street Mall, Pitt Street – opposite Myer — until Sunday, September 25. The fifth season of The Handmaid's Tale airs weekly in Australia via SBS TV and SBS On Demand.
This year's best food-lover gifts are all about small-batch craftsmanship and flavour with personality. Whether you're shopping for a dinner party host, a coffee obsessive or that friend who has opinions about olive oil, we've rounded up thoughtful presents that celebrate local makers and independent producers. Think edible luxuries, clever kitchen tools and design-led homewares that make every meal feel special — plus a few foodie-friendly experiences for good measure. Also have an avid arts lover in your life? Check out our guide to the best gifts for culture seekers. The Fish Weight, Mr Niland Equally nailing the brief of form and function, this stainless steel fish weight from celebrated chef Josh Niland helps you achieve a restaurant-quality cook on anything your heart desires to sear — while doubling as a sleek bench-side sculpture. Shop now. Apéritif Gift Set, Maison Balzac Handblown in the brand's signature sculptural style, this colourful glassware set will elevate any afternoon spritz session. A dreamy choice for design-minded entertainers. Shop now. Butter Blue Seersucker Apron, Mosey Me A cheerful, design-forward kitchen essential from Melbourne's Mosey Me. The seersucker fabric gives it a retro edge — perfect for the friend who loves to cook and coordinate. Shop now. Food For Everyone Art Prints, Food For Everyone These limited-edition prints turn iconic recipes into gallery-worthy art, with a portion of proceeds going to food security initiatives. It's the gift that looks good and does good. Shop now. Messina Make-at-Home Gingerbread Cookie Pie, Two Good Co x Gelato Messina Two Good Co has teamed up with Messina to create a rich, gooey cookie pie you can bake at home. Sweet, festive and socially conscious — every purchase helps support women in need. Shop now. The Madrusan Cocktail Companion, Michael and Zara Madrusan This beautifully bound cocktail bible from Heartbreaker's Michael and Zara Madrusan dives into the history and craft of modern classics. Ideal for the person who always insists on stirring, not shaking. Shop now. Lowe Rehoned Kitchen Knife 40, The Hub General Store A limited-edition knife handcrafted by Melbourne maker Andrew Lowe using a repurposed Japanese blade and a Curly Blackwood handle. Exclusive to The Hub General Store, it's a precision tool with heirloom-level craftsmanship. Shop now. Extra Virgin Olive Oil with Basil, Yiayia and Friends Greek heritage meets playful packaging in this small-batch olive oil infused with basil. Perfect for drizzling, gifting or just admiring on the benchtop. Shop now. Lemon Squeezer Fish, Mesa Collections Whimsical yet functional, this fish-shaped lemon squeezer adds charm to cocktail hours and seafood dinners alike. Because even citrus deserves good design. Shop now. Bubblegum Chopping Board, CHOPIT Boards Made from 100 percent recycled plastic, this bubblegum pink board is naturally odourless and non-absorbent, and turns everyday chopping into a moment of joy. Shop now. Full Set of Hot Sauces, Thousand Apologies A complete lineup of this female-owned Australian hot sauce brand's creations — from mild to blow-your-head-off. For the mate who measures love in Scovilles. Shop now. Balthazar Oyster Dish, Aretae Gifting Lovingly handcrafted, these sculptural dishes take cues from oyster shells — ideal for serving, styling, or simply admiring. A luxe, coastal-inspired addition to any table. Shop now. Moccamaster Select, Alternative Brewing Precision-engineered and endlessly reliable, the Moccamaster is a design icon in the coffee world. For serious caffeine lovers who like their brew as beautiful as it is consistent. Shop now. Meat Masterclass, Victor Churchill Give the gift of experience with a hands-on masterclass at Sydney's legendary Victor Churchill. Learn from expert butchers and chefs how to prepare and cook premium cuts to perfection. Shop now. Panettone Negroni, Never Never Distilling Co. This festive twist on a classic negroni blends Never Never's Triple Juniper Gin with bitter citrus aperitif, sweet vermouth and the warming flavours of aged muscat, orange liqueur and vanilla bean. It's rich, bright and unmistakably Christmas. Shop now. Pick-Your-Own-Label Wine, Good Reason Co If you're looking for a way to make gifting personal this Christmas, head to Good Reason Co for a bespoke wine bottle label. Depending on the gift-receiver, say anything from "Happiness looks good on you" to "Good riddance". Shop now. 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.
Melburnians got their first taste of South Yarra's $800 million Capitol Grand development (and its star-studded food precinct) when Omnia opened its doors in mid-2019. And the crew here — led by award-winning chef Stephen Nairn — has been knocking it out of the park ever since. From the kitchen comes a lineup of European-inspired favourites reimagined with a focus on top local ingredients — from a steak tartare made at the table and plenty of individual snacks to a luxe steak frites and absolutely next-level dry-aged honey roasted duck. This fat and juicy duck (sourced from the Macedon Ranges) is made for two, coming with plenty of succulent an crispy breast meat, as well as a generous side of confit duck leg. Pair it with a potato rosti topped with chives, sour cream and shallots as well as a few seasonal greens for a truly decadent feed. A matching 100-plus-strong wine list shines a spotlight on producers from all corners of the world, while the signature cocktails are worth visiting Omnia for alone. Perch up at the bar, sipping your way through several unique takes on the classic martini, a saffron-infused negroni and a lemon myrtle gimlet. Omnia is split into a few distinct sections: you've got the light- and plant-filled dining room overlooking Chapel Street, the bar surrounded by stools and the back room consisting of several banquettes and booths located by the large open kitchen. The back room has more of a romantic and secluded feel to it, decked out in timber finishes and exposed brickwork, while the front is brighter and gives brilliant daytime bistro vibes. As a Euro-inspired fine-diner, Omnia is ticking all the right boxes, from incredible food and wine to top-notch service and sleek interiors. And if you stop by for anything, make sure it's the duck.
Sydney's summer of sport is officially in full swing, and this season's lineup includes everything from blockbuster cricket and harbour-skimming catamarans to world-class football and top-rate tennis showdowns. And with action taking place throughout the city, each event offers the perfect jumping-off point to explore more of the city. Rather than racing in and out for a match, consider this your playbook for turning four of Sydney's biggest summer sports events into proper mini-escapes, with our picks of nearby restaurants, bars and hotels to help you make the most of your experience. Here's how to make the most of Sydney's summer of sport. [caption id="attachment_1043313" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tennis Australia/Steven Markham[/caption] United Cup Why it's unmissable The Australian summer tennis swing kicks off in Sydney on Saturday, January 3 with the return of the United Cup. This fan-favourite tournament sees national sides battle it out in men's singles, women's singles and mixed doubles, bringing a lively, festival-like vibe to Ken Rosewall Arena. The 2026 edition serves up plenty of reasons to get courtside, with local hero Alex de Minaur, Iga Świątek and Emma Raducanu among the headline names leading a stacked field. Find out more here. Eat here first If you're heading to a day session, kick things off at Happyfield, the enduringly popular American-style diner in Haberfield serving pancake stacks with 100-percent Canadian maple syrup, hefty breakfast burgers and top-notch single-origin coffee. Later in the day, Olympic Meats delivers hearty charcoal-grilled meat plates and other Greek favourites, while Sippenham is a cool, quietly confident neighbourhood hangout known for its seasonal plates and punchy wine list. [caption id="attachment_898451" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Happyfield[/caption] Celebrate here after Post-match, follow the fan flow back into the Inner West and drop into Deadwax, the late-night bar and listening room home to wagyu sandos, a massive vinyl collection and Enmore's only karaoke room. Make a weekend out of it Turn matchday into a mini-escape with a stay at Australia Street Suites, a boutique Newtown address offering stylish accommodation just steps in the thick of one of Sydney's most vibrant neighbourhoods. With easy transport links to Sydney Olympic Park, it's a relaxed, design-led base for a full weekend of tennis and inner-west exploring. Women's T20I Series v India — 1st T20I Why it's unmissable Women's cricket returns to the SCG this February, as the Aussies take on India under the lights in a primetime T20 showdown. The growing rivalry between these two powerhouses is one of modern cricket's most thrilling storylines, with both sides playing at the top of their game right now. Can Alyssa Healy and her side reclaim bragging rights in front of a home crowd after India knocked them out of November's ODI World Cup, or will the Women in Blue spoil the party? Find out more here. Eat here first The SCG's location in the thick of the eastern suburbs means it's within easy reach of some of Sydney's favourite restaurants. Enjoy a spread of Greek mezedes paired with ouzo coladas at vibey Redfern taverna Olympus, fuel up at Surry Hills' Argentinian steakhouse Porteño, or soak up the scene at Neil Perry's big-swinging Italian dining room Gran Torino. If it's water views you're after, Rick Stein at Coogee Beach plates up the legendary British chef's produce-driven seafood dishes, as well as sweeping views of one of the city's most beloved stretches of sand. Celebrate here after When stumps are called, wander up to sleek Darlinghurst neighbourhood bar Vin-Cenzo's (pictured above) for a pick from the impressive wine list and traditional Italian biscuits served in vintage tins, or settle in nearby at The Waratah, home to a cocktail menu that heroes native ingredients. Make a weekend out of it Extend your stay at The EVE — just steps from the SCG, you'll feel like you're a world away thanks to its tropical resort vibes. AFC Women's Asian Cup Australia 2026 Why it's unmissable For the first time in two decades, Australasia's biggest celebration of women's football returns to Australia, bringing some of the region's best national squads (and biggest names) to Western Sydney Stadium and Sydney Olympic Park's Stadium Australia. And with spots in the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup — and, for the first time, the AFC Women's Olympic Qualifying Tournament — up for grabs, you can expect teams to leave it all out on the pitch. Find out more here. Eat here first Kick off your matchday at Misc. This breezy 300-seater in Parramatta Park does it all, from cheeky breakfast items like the Lebs Benedict, featuring grilled sujuk, smoked butter hollandaise and pickled chillies on thick-cut milk toast, to all-day sharing dishes like daily market fish with a preserved lemon vinaigrette and a fall-off-the-bone lamb shoulder with minted labneh, zhoug and flatbread to mop it all up. [caption id="attachment_879092" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Parker Blain[/caption] Celebrate here after Keep the energy high after the final whistle at Lady Banks, Western Sydney's sky-high rooftop perched above Bankstown. Head up for sweeping views and summer-ready cocktails — the perfect perch to debrief every goal, near-miss and heart-stopping moment from the game. Make a weekend out of it Stay close to the action at the Crowne Plaza Sydney Macquarie Park. With brand-new rooms, sleek modern interiors and easy access to both Parramatta and Sydney Olympic Park, it's a smart base for turning matchday into a full Sydney escape. KPMG Sydney Sail Grand Prix Why it's unmissable SailGP brings the world's most exciting race on water back to Sydney Harbour this summer, turning the city's most iconic waterway into a high-octane racecourse. From tight duels and fierce national rivalries to near-flying boat speeds of over 100 kilometres per hour, every race unfolds just metres from shore, with Shark Island perfectly positioned as your front-row seat to the action. This year's event comes with a twist: racing kicks off at 5.30pm, delivering the first-ever twilight showdown in the event's local history. Find out more here. Eat here first Make a day of it on the harbour's edge. Start your pre-race wander at Flaminia, the polished new Italian restaurant bringing big coastal flavours to a prime harbourfront location. For something more laidback, Watermans — tucked along the Barangaroo boardwalk — serves Levantine-inspired plates backed by seasonal local produce. If you fancy a stroll into the city, Rockpool's steak-frites restaurant 24 York serves up MB2+ scotch fillet cooked to your liking for $48. Celebrate here after Take the post-race festivities skyward at Smoke Bar, Barangaroo House's sleek rooftop perch with panoramic views, sharp cocktails and a near-constant buzz. If you'd prefer something more intimate (but no less lively), slip into Maybe Sammy, the award-winning cocktail bar pouring playful, theatre-driven drinks in an elegant, pared-back setting. Make a weekend out of it Cap off your raceday with a stay at the Park Hyatt Sydney (pictured above), where balconies overlook the Sydney Opera House and morning swims on the rooftop pool come with postcard views. It's the ultimate base for a weekend built around the harbour. Ready to feel the Sydney side of summer? Discover the full calendar of what's on across the city at sydney.com.
Funlab (Holey Moley, Hijinx Hotel and Strike Bowling) has a thing for competitive socialising, now operating over 50 game bars across Australia. And one of its most popular sites — Holey Moley on Little Bourke Street — has just undergone a huge expansion. On Friday, October 11, the Funlab crew unveiled the new-look mini golf space, which has been decked out with new automated scoring and live leaderboards, bonus points scoring games, and a heap of other updated technologies. The main Caddyshack bar also grew to accommodate guests visiting the new downstairs venue Holey Moley Funhouse. Here, putters are invited to put down their clubs and participate in nine different challenge games — similar to those seen at the team's Hijinx Hotel. These include a ball pit, throwing challenges, an egg and spoon race full of obstacles, quick-fire memory games, and putt putt pong (we're not entirely sure what this is). For some of these games, you'll play as a team, but for the most part, you'll be fighting it out against one another. Like the upstairs mini golf bar, these games can all be played with a drink in hand — or at least the drinks can be put down for a few moments while you compete with your mates at each different gaming area. Holey Moley Funhouse will also similarly embrace nostalgic 80s and 90s vibes but feel more like a carnival than a mini-golf course. "Holey Moley Funhouse combines two of our guests' favourite experiences; Hijinx Hotel challenge rooms and the competitive and nostalgic fun of Holey Moley. We think we've not only created the latest and greatest new Funlab concept, but also Melbourne's most playful new bar!", shares Funlab CEO Michael Schreiber. Holey Moley Funhouse can be found at 590 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne. For more information, you can visit the venue's website.
Ben Shewry is best known for plating up innovative contemporary Australian cuisine at his Ripponlea restaurant Attica. It's a must-visit spot for any die-hard foodie, but these incredible degustations will set you back a few hundred dollars per person. If this experience is currently out of reach — but you still want to sample a Shewry creation — then you best bookmark Saturday, October 5. On this day — and only this day — Shewry is heading over to Prahran Market's G.McBean Family Butcher to serve fat slices of his lasagne. This is all being done to promote Shewry's new book Uses for Obsession — A (Chef's) Memoir, in which he has included this lasagne recipe tributed to Gary from G. McBean. Head down to the butcher between 11am and 12pm to meet Shewry himself, who'll be signing books and chatting to customers. You can nab a serving of lasagne for $25 or get it with a signed copy of the new book for $50.
Simply hearing the phrase 'taco Tuesday' should fill you with joy — it does for us, at least. Because even though tacos can be consumed on any day of the week, this alliterative ritual has led to stacks of Melbourne Mexican restaurants creating pocket-friendly weekly taco deals. Mesa Verde is the latest to join the club. Every Tuesday, from 4pm–late, the Curtin House venue is pumping out $5 full-size tacos (which are usually priced $18–19 for two) for those looking for a cheap midweek feed in the CBD. [caption id="attachment_888767" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Natalie Jurrjens[/caption] Every taco on the menu is included in this taco Tuesday deal, from the braised ox tongue and goat barbacoa numbers to tortillas packed with the likes of beer-battered fish, fried okra or portobello mushrooms. There's no limit to how many you can order, plus, if you time it right, you can pair the taco Tuesday deal with the restaurant's regular happy hour special — every night Mesa Verde is open (Tuesday–Saturday), you can drop by between 4–6pm to score $10 margaritas. Combining these deals, you can drink and eat to your heart's delight without breaking the bank. Be sure to add this one to your group text and start planning a big midweek night out. [caption id="attachment_761984" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: Brook James[/caption]
Just because the days are getting fresher needn't mean scrapping your beloved weekly brunch routine. Half Acre's light-filled atrium space proves a primo weekend setting, even right through the depths of a grizzly Melbourne winter. Especially thanks to the South Melbourne eatery's weekend brunch offering, which is dishing up a bottomless New York-inspired feast every Saturday and Sunday for two hour seatings. Taking cues from the Big Apple's Soho House, this luxe buffet brunch is all-you-can-eat — so, make sure you head along hungry. It features a generous banquet spread, which may be loaded with shakshuka eggs in a tangy tomato and pepper sauce, challah french toast with rosewater berry compote, and oven-roasted figs with stracciatella, kale pesto and olive. But what really dials up the weekend vibes here is Half Acre's self-serve bottomless drink offerings, with cocktails, prosecco, wine, cocktails and more. Unleash some brunch-time creativity as you mix and match your drinks to match the eats. Then there is the carnivore-enabling dining series Tomahawk Thursdays at which, from lunch through to dinner every Thursday, you can join forces with a fellow meat lover in your life (or two of them) and tackle the 1.2kg Southern Ranch dry aged tomahawk steak served with black garlic butter and caramelised onion jus, a bargain at $110. Imagery: Tom Ross Appears in: The Best Bottomless Brunches in Melbourne for 2023
With four locations across Melbourne, Maker Coffee has been making its mark on the Melbourne coffee scene since 2015. It sources coffee from around the world and focuses on sustainable and socially aware producers. Its espresso range includes The Maven from Colombia, with hints of blackberry, citrus and toffee, and is grown in mountainous region where warm, humid air creeps up to the coffee trees at night. Other espressos include The Smith from Chapada de Minas, Brazil, with flavours of apricot, butterscotch and milk chocolate, and the Max Palacios Villatoro Guatemala, which highlights red grapes, plums and toffee. If you prefer filter coffee to espresso, Maker's range is slightly smaller but equally impressive. Brews include the Oscar & Francisca Chaćon from Costa Rica, with hints of honey, dried apricot and yellow nectarine; as well as Kirimahiga AA from Kenya with noticeable aromas of blackberry, fig and sugar cane. It also sells coffee gear so you can become a master coffee roaster at home. It has grinders, droppers, kettles, filters and aeropresses for sale, as well as a cute range of keep cups. If you're interested in learning more about coffee, then head to Maker's Richmond location, where the helpful staff will join you in some banter and pass on their knowledge of various brewing methods. Here, you'll also find stacks of pastries and cakes, plus a few light bites to eat in the arvo. These eats are great, but they only really exist to support the coffee — which rightfully receives most of the love. Images: Lewis McQueen Appears in: Where to Find the Best Coffee in Melbourne
New York City has the High Line; Paris has the Promenade Plantée; Osaka has the glorious Namba Parks. In dense urban environments, it's always heartening to see green public spaces built on the bones of obsolete industry (both the High Line and Promenade Plantée are built along sections of disused elevated railway tracks). And now Melbourne has joined the list of 'cool urban metropolises who don't compromise on green space', all thanks to its very own elevated public park. As first announced back in 2016, Melbourne Sky Park is a 2000-square-metre public park in the heart of the city, bordered by Collins and Flinders Streets (directly across from Southern Cross Station, with a nice view of the award-winning space slug rooftop). Launching in stages, with the first section welcoming visitors since October last year and the second still due for completion, it comes complete with a green lawn, a landscaped garden and built-in outdoor seating — plus wi-fi, power outlets and USB charge points. With a name that pulls no punches, Sky Park adds a much-needed green space to the south end of the CBD, taking the city's solid rooftop culture and making it greener, bigger and — literally — more alive. For those keen to climb up, it's accessible during from Monday–Friday between 8am–6pm via a spiral staircase on Collins Street and glass lifts nearby. [caption id="attachment_561367" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] A render of Sky Park's proposed final design.[/caption] The park has been designed as part of a joint venture by Aspect and Oculus studios on the principles of biophillia, which is a fancy way of saying the health and well-being value of public parks stem from the instinctive bond between humans and other living things. Basically, if it's green and alive, we're down with it. Sky Park is part of a larger development, Lendlease's Melbourne Quarter, a brand new city precinct that includes new offices, homes, shops and hospitality spaces across an entire city block. Aiming to connect people with nature and improve liveability, the project unveiled its first building, One Melbourne Quarter, last year, with more to come. Melbourne Quarter isn't just for residents or workers either. When it's complete, over half of the new 'hood will be free for the public to enjoy, with the Sky Park adding sorely needed open green space to the inner city. But it's not the only environmental addition. As well as Sky Park, Lendlease have also announced plans for a new laneway to connect Collins and Flinders Streets, a neighbourhood park and Melbourne Square, a public plaza which will be the most significant public space developed in the CBD since Federation Square in 2002. Melbourne Sky Park is now open at One Melbourne Quarter, 699 Collins Street, Melbourne.
