With the Year of the Horse officially kicking off soon, Melbourne's Lunar New Year festivities are popping up right across the city. You can join huge street parties in Chinatown, indulge in special banquets with lion dances and prizes, and buy some extra-special treats made just for the occasion. However hard you want to go this year when celebrating Lunar New Year — whether you decide to stay in or go all out with a luxe night out on the town — this guide will have you sorted with heaps of the best bits. Check it all out here. Recommended reads: The Best Things to Do This Weekend in Melbourne The Best Chinese Restaurants in Melbourne The Best Thai Restaurants in Melbourne The Best Japanese Restaurants in Melbourne Chinatown Lunar New Year Festival Chinatown is going big this Lunar New Year, closing off Little Bourke Street (between Swanston Street and Exhibition Street) on Sunday, February 22, for a massive street party. During the day, you can expect to find plenty of food stalls, restaurant dining deals, a dragon parade, live music and a pop-up beer garden. The official party lasts from 10am–10pm, but the street will be closed to cars until 2am. You can easily keep the party going by hitting up these late-night dining spots, dumpling houses, ramen joints, and Melbourne CBD diners. Quang Minh Tet Festival Quang Minh Temple is an important spiritual centre in Melbourne's West. And its annual Tet Festival provides a really brilliant opportunity for the local community, Vietnamese, Chinese Buddhists and non-Buddhists to come together and explore and experience the beauty and richness of Lunar and Buddhist traditional celebrations. This year's Quang Minh Tet Festival includes cultural performances and firecrackers, displays, rides, chanting, vegetarian food and midnight fireworks, which mark the beginning of the new lunar year. It's running from Monday, February 16–Tuesday, February 17, and is a truly special Melbourne Lunar New Year event. Sunshine Lunar New Year Festival You don't have to run into the CBD for Lunar New Year celebrations this year, with plenty of local councils running their own festivities. And one that always goes off is found over in Sunshine. It's running from 12–10 pm on Sunday, February 8. This year's festival is similar to previous years, featuring live entertainment, red pocket giveaways, street performers, face-painting, lion and dragon dancing, fireworks, indoor and outdoor dining options, kids' rides and plenty of market stalls. They're going out all year, closing off Hampshire Road for the whole day. Vietnamese TET Lunar New Year Festival The Vietnamese Community in Australia (Victoria Chapter)'s TET festival returns to Footscray Park this February with a free two-day program packed with performances, exhibits, food, fireworks and activities for all ages. You'll find most of the fun over at Footscray Park from Saturday. February 28–Sunday, March 1. St Albans Lunar New Year Head to Melbourne's West to catch the St Albans Lunar New Year Festival — the city's largest and longest-running Lunar New Year Festival. First held in 1998, this free multicultural shindig has become a sprawling annual tradition, taking over Alfrieda Street from 10am–10pm on Sunday, January 18. On the agenda are traditional lion and dragon dances, alongside live music and cultural performances led by local and emerging artists. There's also non-stop tasty bites at street food stands and market stalls, as well as carnival rides for the kids. At 9.30pm, the sky comes to life with a family-friendly fireworks display. [caption id="attachment_837098" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ari Hatzis[/caption] Lunar New Year at Aru Make your Lunar New Year celebrations extra auspicious by dining on a quartet of new dishes at Aru, crafted just for the occasion. Available from Monday, February 16–Saturday, February 28, these elevated additions to the already innovative menu will ideally enhance your good fortune and prosperity for the year ahead. Dine on Ora King Salmon yee sangs, showcasing fresh salmon, raw Japanese scallops and smoked Yarra Valley salmon caviar, while a whole butterflied rainbow trout is grilled head to tail and served alongside two sambals. Pre-orders for both are essential 48 hours before your reservation. Also available at Aru over Lunar New Year are limited quantities of prawn and scallop shui jiao, served with a smoked soy dressing, chilli oil and brown butter. Meanwhile, wok-tossed longevity noodles, made with spring onion, fried shrimp and garlic chives, round out this festive menu. Lunar New Year Banquet at Spice Temple In typical Spice Temple style, the restaurant is pulling out all the stops for Lunar New Year 2026. Ramping up the symbolism of every dish from Monday, February 9–Tuesday, March 3, this LNY culinary journey is designed to grant guests a little more luck and love. The menu features a host of highlights, with bright ocean trout yee sang, followed by greenlip abalone with black oscietra caviar, festive seafood, smoky longevity noodles and Berkshire pork belly, all capturing a sense of new beginnings. Before the feast is complete, guests will round out their celebration with a Chinese date crème caramel. What's more, every banquet guest will receive an auspicious red packet, symbolising luck and gratitude and putting them in good standing until the Lunar New Year returns. [caption id="attachment_1069669" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Alex Squadrito[/caption] Lunar New Year at From Here by Mike If you missed the news, one of the most exciting restaurant openings of 2025 was From Here by Mike — Chef Mike McEnearney's collaboration with 1 Hotel Melbourne. With the produce-driven restaurant now firmly established, the kitchen is serving a series of LNY specials from Tuesday, February 17–Saturday, February 21. Inspired by traditional Lunar New Year cuisine and the holiday's fascinating symbolism, McEnearney and the team have reimagined these ideas through the lens of the restaurant's commitment to honest, veggie-focused flavours. Available for lunch or dinner, these are four specials to explore, such as the fire horse noodles, featuring egg noodles tossed with spanner crab, black beans and soy butter, and beef short ribs in master stock, finished in a comfort-inducing combo of charred wombok, orange and star anise. Lunar New Year Yum Cha at David's Restaurant David's is welcoming in the Year of the Horse with a classic Lunar New Year Yum Cha event. Held on Saturday, February 21, a fortuitous menu will span several of the much-loved Chinese restaurant's dishes alongside seasonal specials whipped up just for the day. To name just a few of the dishes guests can expect, this familiar yum cha feast includes Shanghai xiao long bao, pan-fried barbecue bao, and chilli honey chicken. And to finish? David's is serving up its signature white chocolate dumplings. Keen to book? There are two seating options available on LNY: the 11.15am session offers an easygoing way to celebrate the day, while the 1.30pm session adds a high-energy lion dance later in the afternoon to take the experience up a notch. Chinese New Year at Moondrop You won't find many better venues than Fitzroy's Moondrop to celebrate Chinese New Year, with this recently opened Shanghainese-inspired cocktail bar hosting festivities for the entire month. Running every day throughout February, Red Envelope of Fortune sees the first 17 guests each day receive an envelope with special perks, such as free dumplings and cocktails. Meanwhile, on Tuesday, February 17, Moondrop will burst to life with the Chinese New Year Lion Dance Performance. Featuring a special cocktail menu, co-owner Jesse Kourmouzis has produced a series of fascinating drinks shaped by traditional Chinese flavours and ingredients, from Baijiu to MSG and imported tea. Closing out the event, guests can also get down to Moondrop to experience the first of its monthly mahjong nights on Sunday, February 28. If you're excited to test your skills, the buy-in is $20 per person, with the winner of each table scoring themselves an $80 bar tab. Chinese New Year Feast at Sleepy's Cafe & Wine Bar Sleepy's Cafe & Wine Bar is leaning into Chinese New Year fun, returning with its annual feast on Saturday, February 20. Playing on the themes of luck and abundance, this one-night-only experience spans seven courses that ring in the Year of the Horse in style. Available for $75 per person, with limited space for walk-ins, highlights include pork and prawn-stuffed tofu, Peking duck pancakes with plum sauce, and chicken congee with century egg and chilli. Lunar New Year at QV Melbourne There's no shortage of ways to celebrate LNY at QV Melbourne. Inspired by the best of Chinese takeaway, the Happy Horse Noodle Bar invites guests to step inside a giant noodle box, complete with tasty traditional dishes. Think the signature KL hokkien mee from Malaysian street food restaurant EatAlley, or spring rolls from Sichuan eatery Dainty Sichuan. Plus, QV is featuring a series of action-packed LNY performances from Monday, February 16–Tuesday, February 17 and Saturday, February 21–Sunday, February 22. Expect lion dances, dragon dances, and martial artists from the Chinese Masonic Society, ensuring an entertaining experience for the whole family. Lunar New Year Celebration at The Glen and Box Hill Central The festive spirit will be sky-high at The Glen and Box Hill Central, as a series of family-friendly experiences celebrate the colour and culture befitting the Year of the Horse. Get a glimpse of what lies ahead with horoscope readings, or give your hopes for the year the best chance of becoming a reality by hanging them on the wishing tree. Both shopping centres will also feature glowing art installations designed by Chinese-Australian artist Chrissy Lau, while a gold-coin feature symbolises prosperity, health and success. And for those heading along to Box Hill Central, a special Lantern Festival is happening from Friday, February 27–Wednesday, March 4. Lunar New Year High Tea at Dorsett Melbourne Pairing high tea with LNY celebrations, luxe CBD stay Dorsett Melbourne has teamed up with T6 Patisserie to deliver a different kind of Year of the Horse experience. Featuring a curated selection of sweet and savoury treats, both culinary teams have combined to bring an Asian-inspired twist to artisan French desserts. On the sweet end of the spectrum, expect mandarin and jasmine mousse, Cantonese-style mango pudding, and yuzu milk chocolate tart. For something savoury, it's all about pork char siu, roasted Peking duck wraps and mini tofu banh mi. At the same time, sip on jasmine green tea or explore a range of alcoholic beverages. Lunar New Year Banquet at Ministry of Crab Launched 15 years ago in Colombo, Sri Lanka, Ministry of Crab quickly rose to prominence, celebrating the country's legendary mud crab cuisine. Now, after multiple outposts spawned across Asia, Ministry of Crab has officially touched down with a brand-new Flinders Lane location, bringing a new edge to the historic Invicta House. For Lunar New Year, the acclaimed restaurant is serving abundance, flavour and celebration in droves, with three banquet options available from Monday, February 16–Sunday, February 22. Besides lobster rolls, chilli prawn noodles, and coconut creme brulee, guests can also add yee sang for an even more auspicious dining. Lunar New Year at Preston Market Preston Market: it's where culture, community and food come together all year round. But with the arrival of the Lunar New Year, the festivities are looking more vibrant than usual. On Sunday, February 8, the market is welcoming the Year of the Horse with a family-friendly celebration spanning traditional performances, live music, kids' activities, pop-up stalls and more. Running from 9am–2pm, the day kicks off with a Cai Shen stilt walker, followed by face changers, magicians and a captivating lion dance roaming through the space. Alongside store blessings, Qigong breathing sessions, stellar performances and the Chinese Melbourne Choir, kids can take part in a fan-decorating class. Plus, there are loads of delicious bites and sips. Top image: Yum Sing House.
His hotel concierges are charismatic and committed, while his lobby boys are devoted and delightful. His foxes are nothing short of fantastic, and his dogs are as resourceful as they are adorable. Every time that he turns his attention to a family dynamic — be it siblings, strained parent-child relationships or friendships so close that they feel like bonds of blood — dysfunction always reigns supreme. And, when all of the above occurs, it does so within immaculately symmetrical yet immensely eccentric frames. Yes, we're talking about Wes Anderson, and the distinctive body of work that the American filmmaker has splashed across cinema screens over the past three decades. Usually chronicling some kind of caper, often featuring a retro 60s and 70s soundtrack, and styled so meticulously that each image could happily hang on anyone's wall (in fact, he's even curated museum exhibitions), his films are like no one else's. Often brought to life by a familiar cast of faces — Owen Wilson, Luke Wilson, Jason Schwartzman, Bill Murray, Jeff Goldblum, Anjelica Huston, Tilda Swinton, Willem Dafoe, Adrien Brody, Bob Balaban, Edward Norton, Scarlett Johansson and Benicio del Toro, to name a few — they firmly resonate on their own frequency. And, understandably so, they've amassed quite a following. But, from a filmography to-date that spans from Bottle Rocket to The Phoenician Scheme, which is the best? As always, that's a subjective question. Like ranking Studio Ghibli movies, it's also a task made all the more difficult by a simple fact: Wes Anderson has never made a bad film, not once. That said, while some are flatout masterpieces that will always stand the test of time, others are entertaining but don't necessarily demand multiple rewatches. That's what we found when we revisited the 13 features (well, 12 and four shorts packaged as an anthology film, which we're counting) currently on his resume, and soaked in his inimitable cinematic creations. And, here are the results: our rundown of Anderson's films from worst — again, not that there's any such thing as a terrible Anderson flick — to best. 13. Moonrise Kingdom By virtue of their format, a ranked list always requires something to come in last place. Moonrise Kingdom earns that honour on Wes Anderson's filmography — not because it isn't great, which it is, but because it's the movie on his resume that can stick in the mind the least. A bittersweet story about first love and finding a home, it's also the rare Anderson film that feels as much a part of its genre as part of the director's oeuvre. In other words, it's definitely an Anderson flick, but it also charts rather recognisable coming-of-age territory. Still, watching 12-year-olds Suzy Bishop (Kara Hayward, Slayers) and Sam Shakusky (Jared Gilman, Angry Neighbours) set the New England island of New Penzance aflutter when they run off in the name of romance is typically charming. Moonrise Kingdom streams via YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. 12. The Darjeeling Limited In Anderson's fifth film, three brothers take a train across India in the eponymous locomotive. During their trip, Francis (Owen Wilson, Loki), Jack (Jason Schwartzman, The Last Showgirl) and Peter (Adrien Brody, The Brutalist) work through their sibling baggage while literally carting around matching orange-hued, monogrammed baggage. It's been a year since they last crossed paths at their father's funeral, and life isn't treating any of them kindly — with Anderson and co-writers Schwartzman and Roman Coppola (Mozart in the Jungle) balancing the brothers' existential malaise with episodic antics both on the train and off. As stylish as any Anderson-directed feature, The Darjeeling Limited is served best by its performances, as well as its touching blend of sadness and humour. The Darjeeling Limited streams via Disney+, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. 11. Bottle Rocket When Anderson made his feature directorial debut back in 1996, he did so with this crime-comedy caper about three friends planning a series of heists in the absence of any other direction in their lives. Based on a short film of the same name that he helmed two years prior, and co-written with Owen Wilson, who also stars, Bottle Rocket establishes many of the filmmaker's trademarks from the outset — including his penchant for witty interactions, as well as his love of dressing his characters in coordinated outfits. Owen Wilson plays Dignan, the driving force; however, as his recently voluntarily institutionalised best friend Anthony, this is Luke Wilson's (No Good Deed) time to shine. A third Wilson, their elder brother Andrew (Father Figures), also pops up, because of course he does. Bottle Rocket streams via YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. 10. The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar and Three More It might've originally been released as four separate short films, led by Best Live-Action Short Oscar-winner The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, but this 2023 addition to Anderson's resume always made sense as an anthology. In its 39-minute namesake chapter, Ralph Fiennes (Conclave) plays Roald Dahl, who did indeed pen the tale that gives this suitably symmetrically shot affair its name — the book it's in, too. The account that the author spills to start is about a man who has learned to see without his eyes (Ben Kingsley, The King of Kings), the doctor (Dev Patel, Monkey Man) fascinated with him and the gambler (Benedict Cumberbatch, Eric) who wants to master the trick, and is one of several in a movie that enthusiastically makes Anderson's love of layers known in its playful structure as much as its faux set. The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar and Three More streams via Netflix. Read our full review. 9. Isle of Dogs A literal underdog tale about scrappy canines, a plucky orphan and a pooch-hating politician with an evil scheme, Isle of Dogs is one of the most Wes Anderson-esque movies the filmmaker has ever made. Filled with heart, humour and witty dialogue, this doggone delight is constructed with the tail-wagging enthusiasm of man's best friend — and, as well as sporting all of the beloved Anderson traits (quirky quests, spirited characters, symmetrical compositions, a distinctive colour palette and a huge cast among them), it tells a stellar story. The setup: when his uncle, Megasaki City's mayor, bans all dogs to Trash Island, 12-year-old Atari (Koyu Rankin, Dead Boy Detectives) risks his life to follow his four-legged companion. At every moment, the director fills his narrative to the brim like an overflowing bowl of dog treats, spoiling viewers like he'd spoil his own animal companion. Isle of Dogs streams via Disney+, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. 8. The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou will always be Anderson's undersung gem. It's so quintessentially Anderson and, with its length, it's guilty of sprawling — but every absurdist moment is a marvel. The premise, casting Bill Murray (Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire) as a Jacques Cousteau-style oceanographer intent on getting revenge on the just-discovered jaguar shark that killed his best friend, is instantly amusing. Trapping a crew of offbeat folks at sea while Zissou pursues his quest provides plenty of comic as well as thoughtful moments, too. The soundtrack of David Bowie songs, including Portuguese-language covers by The Life Aquatic co-star Seu Jorge, sets the pitch-perfect mood. And, visually, Anderson's pans through a cross-section of the ship are always striking. Also, no one has ever watched this film and not immediately wanted a pair of Team Zissou sneakers. The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou streams via Disney+, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. 7. Rushmore In Anderson's 1998 breakout film, there's nothing that Max Fischer (Jason Schwartzman) loves more than Rushmore Academy. As the director conveys so engagingly, his 15-year-old protagonist has spent the bulk of his life at the exclusive private school — mainly starting extra-curricular clubs, as well as annoying both the headmaster (Brian Cox, The Parenting) and his classmates with his enthusiasm, all while barely caring about his grades. Then, just as he befriends a wealthy company owner (Bill Murray), Max falls for the new first-grade teacher (Olivia Williams, Dune: Prophecy). One of the best of Anderson's coming-of-age films, Rushmore deploys both Schwartzman and Murray to perfection, while weaving a smart yet also often dark comedy about learning to adjust your dreams. Rushmore streams via Disney+, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. 6. Fantastic Mr Fox Combine Anderson, a magnificent Roald Dahl-penned all-ages story and stunning stop-motion animation, and you get a match made in cinematic heaven. Dahl wrote the acclaimed 1970 children's novel about the canny and cunning titular fox, of course, while Anderson brings it to vibrant life with a voice cast that includes George Clooney (Wolfs), Meryl Streep (Only Murders in the Building), Jason Schwartzman, Bill Murray, Willem Dafoe (Nosferatu) and Owen Wilson (and via a script co-written with Frances Ha, Marriage Story and White Noise's Noah Baumbach, too). While Fantastic Mr Fox marked Anderson's first animated feature, he's a natural when it comes to witty comedy paired with playfulness and a whole lot of sight gags. As for the story, it follows Mr Fox's (Clooney) efforts to outsmart a trio of mean farmers — and it's told here with energy, personality and Anderson's usual flair. Fantastic Mr Fox streams via Disney+, Stan, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. 5. The French Dispatch Editors fictional and real may disagree — The French Dispatch of the Liberty, Kansas Evening Sun's Arthur Howitzer Jr (Bill Murray) among them — but it's easy to use Wes Anderson's name as both an adjective and a verb. In a sentence that'd never get printed in this film's titular tome (and mightn't in The New Yorker, its inspiration, either), The French Dispatch is another one of the most Wes Anderson movies Wes Anderson has ever Wes Andersoned. It spins three main stories and a couple of delightful interludes like it's laying out pieces from its titular magazine, and it's as symmetrical, idiosyncratic and thoughtful as the writer/director's work has even been. Plus, the cast is packed, as well as glorious in offbeat performances as always, with Tilda Swinton (The Room Next Door), Timothée Chalamet (A Complete Unknown), Benicio del Toro (Reptile) and Jeffrey Wright (The Last of Us) among the standouts. The French Dispatch streams via Disney+, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. 4. The Phoenician Scheme It'll always be a glaring oversight that Ralph Fiennes didn't win every award that he could for The Grand Budapest Hotel. Here's hoping that Benicio del Toro's efforts in The Phoenician Scheme aren't similarly overlooked. After the actor's sublime work for Anderson in one of The French Dispatch's segments, the Traffic Oscar-winner is again exceptional as Anatole 'Zsa-zsa' Korda, who starts this film in a plane crash, then trying to appoint his sole daughter Liesl (Mia Threapleton, The Buccaneers), a trainee nun, to agree to be his heir. They give each other a trial period — as a father, and as the person who'll carry on Zsa-zsa's legacy. Their other key focus: attempting to enact the titular scheme. Both del Toro and Michael Cera, as a Norwegian tutor, couldn't be more at home in front of Anderson's lens. This is also one of his movies that cuts deep emotionally, and seamlessly shows how he's a master at his usual touches while also venturing into new territory. The Phoenician Scheme released in Australian cinemas on Thursday, May 29, 2025. Read our interview with Benicio del Toro and Michael Cera. 3. Asteroid City Asteroid City is Anderson's 11th movie, also a desert spot known for a hefty crater caused 5000 years ago and a play about said locale. As the film itself tells viewers direct to-camera, however, the latter two — the setting and the theatre show — definitely aren't real, even within the world of the feature itself. Anderson gets especially playful in this film about a Junior Stargazer convention, the motley crew of folks that it brings to town in September 1955 and the otherworldly interloper who causes chaos. Staging a play within a TV show within a movie, he gets as smart and moving as his work has ever been to contemplate art, authenticity, and the emotions found in and processed through works of creativity, too. As the closest thing that the ensemble piece has to leads, Jason Schwartzman and Scarlett Johansson (Fly Me to the Moon) are astronomically spectacular, as are the film's look, feel, insightful musings, sense of humour and crater-sized impact. Asteroid City streams via Paramount+, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. 2. The Grand Budapest Hotel Many a well-known actor has graced Anderson's frames. Most have done so multiple times, with Bill Murray appearing in ten of his 13 films thus far. But no one has put in a performance quite like Ralph Fiennes as M. Gustave in The Grand Budapest Hotel. As the dedicated concierge at the titular holiday spot in the Republic of Zubrowka, he's a powerhouse — as amusing as he is charming, vibrant, confident, soulful, wily and determined. Indeed, it's no wonder that Anderson lets this layered tale of friendship, war, fascism and tragedy hang off his leading man. The rest of his ensemble cast works a treat, including Saoirse Ronan (Blitz) and then-newcomer Tony Revolori (Servant), and this is one of Anderson's most aesthetically stunning creations. Still, without Fiennes, it would've lacked quite a bit of its ample magic. The Grand Budapest Hotel streams via Disney+, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. 1. The Royal Tenenbaums In his first two films, Anderson focused on characters striving for greatness, be it through pulling off heists in Bottle Rocket or tying their identity to their school in Rushmore. In The Royal Tenenbaums, the titular family's three children were all once great. In fact, they were child prodigies. But as adults, their lives have seen more disappointment and joy, a truth that stern widower and finance whiz Chas (Ben Stiller, Nutcrackers), fiercely private playwright Margot (Gwyneth Paltrow, The Politician) and ex-tennis star Richie (Luke Wilson) are forced to face just as their father (the now-late, great Gene Hackman, Welcome to Mooseport) resurfaces and their mother (Anjelica Huston, Towards Zero) prepares to get remarried. Although undeniably whimsical, it's the most melancholy, poignant and deeply felt of the director's features. And, in its visuals and its performances, it's also oh-so-rich with affecting detail. The Royal Tenenbaums streams via Disney+, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video.
For those who work from home, we salute you. It isn't easy ignoring the cobwebs you've just noticed in the kitchen or all your unwashed laundry sitting next to your desk. If you do manage to ignore all that and your bed, well, hats off to you and your tunnel vision. If you don't? Here's an article for you and all the procrastinators, procrasticleaners and procrastibakers out there who are in need of a Melbourne cafe where you can work or study the day away. With great food, bottomless filter coffee, free wifi and comfy places to sit, it's well worth lugging your laptop to these spots and forcing yourself into actually getting something done. Unfortunately, you'll probably have to change out of PJs, but on the upside, you won't have to tell your housemates you've had a productive day when, in actual fact, you've been in the same YouTube hole you fell down hours ago. Also, do keep in mind that these small businesses need to make some money off you, so be sure to order more than just a couple coffees when spending the day working from one of these cafes. Recommended reads: The Best Cafes in Melbourne The Best Coffee Shops in Melbourne's CBD The Best Breakfast in Melbourne The Best Coffee in Melbourne
In the age of streaming, DVD commentary tracks are no longer as much a part of the home-viewing process. If you're keen to hear insider details about the making of Sydney-shot 1999 sci-fi great The Matrix and 2025's Melbourne-made horror hit Together, however, SXSW Sydney has you covered. 2025's event has unveiled more details of its Screen Festival program for this year, with the return of its Screen Commentary sessions among the highlights. Costume designer Kym Barrett, who has also worked on everything from Baz Luhrmann's Romeo + Juliet, The Nice Guys, The Shallows, Aquaman and Us to Charlie's Angels, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings and Three Thousand Years of Longing — and on The Matrix Reloaded and The Matrix Revolutions, plus the Wachowskis' Speed Racer, Cloud Atlas and Jupiter Ascending — will talk through her efforts on The Matrix as the film plays. For Together, writer/director Michael Shanks will dig into his debut feature, which also opened 2025's Sydney Film Festival. SXSW Sydney has also announced Screen conference sessions as part of its roster of seminars, workshops and more, with Whitney Fuller, the Development Executive of Jordan Peele's Monkeypaw Productions, one of the big names. Fittingly, Fuller will be part of the festival's Women in Genre panel. Also, producer Liz Watts (The Royal Hotel) and filmmaker Tony Ayres (The Survivors) are teaming up for the What Is an Australian Story? session, while Fantastic Festival Director Lisa Dreyer, Rachel Watt from Watt Social, Yellow Veil Pictures' Joe Yanick and Oscilloscope's Alexandra Fredericks are set to get chatting as well. The panel lineup also spans Jill Kingston from Pacific Shadow Pictures, Enzo Tedeschi and Helen Tuck from Deadhouse Films, and Lake Martin Films' Kate Separovich unpacking all things indie horror from a filmmaking perspective, as well as Invention Studios' Carmen Knox and actor Remy Hii (Arcane) on deciding whether to make the leap to LA. SXSW Sydney's latest screen-centric additions join Paul Feig (Another Simple Favour) hitting the Harbour City as the Screen Festival keynote speaker and its first recipient of the new SXSW Sydney Screen Pioneer Award — and also a 14-hour Freaks and Geeks marathon, plus sessions of Bridesmaids and The Heat, to go along with his time at the fest. There's more to come; however, as similarly announced earlier, viewers will also be able to catch By Design, $POSITIONS, Dead Lover, Zodiac Killer Project, The Last Sacrifice and Bokshi. Among that group, body-swap effort By Design features Juliette Lewis (The Thicket), Mamoudou Athie (Kinds of Kindness) and Robin Tunney (Dear Edward); horror-comedy Dead Lover is a SXSW Austin award-winner; Charlie Shackleton (The Afterlight) digs into a famed serial killer; and everything from comedy to folk horror features. [caption id="attachment_967878" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jaimi Joy[/caption] [caption id="attachment_923287" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brendon Thorne/Getty Images for SXSW Sydney[/caption] [caption id="attachment_923317" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brendon Thorne/Getty Images for SXSW Sydney[/caption] SXSW Sydney 2025, including the SXSW Sydney Screen Festival, runs from Monday, October 13–Sunday, October 19 at various Sydney venues. Head to the SXSW Sydney website for further details and tickets. The Matrix image: Ronald Siemoneit/Sygma/Sygma via Getty Images. Together image: Ben King, Neon.
The World's 101 Best Steak Restaurants has handed down its list of the top spots in Australia ahead of its annual global awards in May. And this year, a Sydney favourite has taken out the top spot. The World's 101 Best Steak Restaurants, managed and published by Upper Cut Media House, headquartered in London, launched in 2019. It's Steak Ambassadors work tirelessly across each continent to discover the best quality steaks in the world. The criteria for evaluation include such categories as the selection and quality of meat offered (including the taste, terroir, marbling, preparation, aging process, and breeds), the service and expertise in the product, the description given on the menu, the ambiance of the restaurant, and a curated wine list. Before the global list is revealed, the Steak Ambassadors have unveiled the 30 Best Steak Restaurants in Australia. No surprise to anyone who has kept tabs on the many awards and accolades received in recent years, that Neil Perry's Margaret in Double Bay has taken out the top spot. In fact, Sydney took out the top three spots, with Firedoor coming in second, and Aalia in third. Next up on the list are Agnes in Brisbane, followed by Arkhé in Adelaide. At this point, you might be wondering if the ambassadors made it to Melbourne. But fear not, Steer Dining Room took out sixth place, Victor Churchill eighth, and Gimlet at Cavendish House came in at number 15. Images: Supplied. Feeling carnivorous? Check out the best steak restaurants in Melbourne and the best steak restaurants in Sydney.
If your usual spa day is no longer cutting it, why not hop on board the latest self-care obsession taking over the state and channel your inner zen at a bathhouse? Part spa, gym and exclusive club, there's a reason the ancient Romans invented them all those years ago. With plenty of bathhouses scattered around Melbourne city, as well as some a little further afield, the options are plentiful. Unlike the typical solo self-care rituals, these wellness retreats double as a social experience — so grab your friends, grab your partner, and prepare to soak. Recommended reads: The Best Natural Hot Springs in Victoria The Best Glamping Spots Near Melbourne The Best Heated Swimming Pools in Melbourne The Best Date Ideas in Melbourne [caption id="attachment_958664" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Supplied[/caption] Saint Haven, Collingwood, South Yarra and Toorak Don't turn up to Saint Haven unannounced; this private wellness club is strictly members-only. For those lucky enough to snag a membership, a tranquil, indulgent oasis awaits. With three locations across Melbourne and its newest outpost in Bondi Beach coming in spring 2026, this exclusive club is the pinnacle of health and wellness. The word around town is that the waitlist has now surpassed the 15,000 mark, which is impressive, to say the least. Why the mania? This wellness centre not only offers a luxe interior, a bathhouse, steam room and two cold plunge pools, but members will also find cutting-edge bio-hacking treatments. There is also a candlelit sunken lounge, yoga and pilates studios, and a luxe meditation room. [caption id="attachment_1010498" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Supplied[/caption] Coming Soon: The Commons Health Club, Richmond Opening in September 2025, The Commons Health Club is another members-only health club taking over the 'burbs of Melbourne. The club is set to combine a holistic approach to health and wellness, with fitness, recovery, bathhouse and community in one huge space. Part of a recent expansion of The Commons, one of Australia's most innovative coworking spaces, the extension signals the boundary-pushing collective's first step into wellness. The Commons Health Club will offer over 200 weekly classes and over 50 community events. You can expect cold plunges, longevity therapies, mineral baths, red-light therapy, lymphatic compression, private infrared saunas and body rolling. There's also a Theragun station, perfect for loosening up your muscles after a workout before returning to work. Keep your eyes peeled — a second Health Club in South Yarra will open in January. Wellness Social Club, Preston The newest wellness destination in Melbourne's north, Wellness Social Club, offers saunas, a cold plunge and even a hyperbaric chamber. The club offers a range of different memberships and wellness packages, but casual visits are available if you'd like to have a taste first. In the beautifully designed space, you'll find all the classics, including traditional saunas, infrared saunas and contrast water therapies in magnesium pools. For those looking to dive deeper into inner healing, you'll find yin yoga, sound healing, breathwork, IV vitamin drips and red-light therapy. There are also fitness classes, including weight training, cardio and HIIT. [caption id="attachment_962617" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Supplied[/caption] Soak, South Yarra Hot off the press, having officially launched in June 2025, Soak's newest outpost in South Yarra adds to the award-winning, modern Australian bathhouse's impressive CV — with locations in Sydney, Brisbane and the Gold Coast. Part of the $100-million Alfasi Development, just behind Chapel Street, the expansive bathhouse is home to warm, magnesium-rich mineral pools, hot pools, cold plunge pools, dry cedarwood saunas and a steam room. Immersed in lush greenery at every turn, Soak offers relaxation experiences like infrared saunas, LED facials and full-body massages. However, the standout feature here, like its other locations, is its focus on socialising. So, expect lots of chatting and good vibes — perfect for self-care catch-ups with your mates. [caption id="attachment_989922" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Supplied[/caption] About Time Bathhouse, Torquay Taking inspiration from the Mornington Peninsula's plethora of bathhouses and spas, Torquay on Victoria's Surf Coast has recently jumped on the bandwagon, thanks to the late-2024 opening of About Time — a luxe day spa and bathhouse. The Torquay bathhouse is fully equipped for all your luxury bathing needs. You will find a magnesium pool, cold plunge pool, traditional sauna and steam room, plus private infrared saunas and ice baths that can be booked for groups of up to eight people. Step outside to the garden surrounded by towering gum trees, and you'll find hot and cold magnesium pools that are tailor-made for social bathing with mates. Those after treatments can also get all your usual Melbourne spa offerings. [caption id="attachment_1010873" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Supplied[/caption] Pond Bathhouse, Mornington A wellness sanctuary located in the heart of Mornington, Pond Bathhouse is a deeply considered space with beautiful books, sleek design, comfortable lounges and an intimate relaxation room. As soon as you enter the door, you'll feel immediately relaxed. In terms of experiences, Pond offers hot and cold plunge therapy, magnesium pools, ice baths, traditional and infrared saunas, and a steam room. There are also more traditional offerings, including relaxing massage services. Or, simply head to the relaxation room, sink into plush reclining chairs, slip on noise-cancelling headphones, and momentarily escape while listening to soothing soundscapes, guided meditation, or silence. The perfect blend of wellness and modern self-care, a visit to Pond Bathhouse is a must for anyone in the Mornington area looking to hit pause. [caption id="attachment_803436" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jess Tremp[/caption] Sense of Self, Collingwood Housed in a converted Collingwood warehouse, Sense of Self is flipping the script on the usual wellness concept, instead delivering a "no BS" offering centred on inclusivity, connection and restoration. The soaring, light-filled space takes its cues from the bathhouses of Europe, Africa and Japan, with abundant greenery designed to soothe and uplift. A massage and mindfulness studio upstairs offers various relaxation and remedial treatments, like the extra-deep The Fix massage. Alternatively, settle in and get acquainted with a range of bathhouse facilities, including a Finnish sauna, a 39-degree mineral bath and a cold plunge pool. [caption id="attachment_938244" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sean Fennessy[/caption] Inner Studio, Collingwood Known for its breath work, cold exposure and heat exposure offerings, Inner Studio has all the essential facilities for a proper self-care sesh. Bathers have been flocking to the wellness studio in Collingwood in such large numbers that Inner Studio is opening two new locations South Yarra and Highett, in the latter half of 2025. Drop by to use the different plunge pools and sauna, or take a group breathwork or yoga class (followed by plenty of spa time) to help you manage stress, relax and regain energy. Individual classes and sauna sessions cost $45 a pop, while the weekly memberships range from $65–$75 — depending on whether you just want to roam the facilities or would prefer to also participate in classes. Whichever option you choose, you've got to make a little time to relax by the fireplace, sipping some tea before heading back into the real world. [caption id="attachment_1010808" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Monte[/caption] Comma, Cremorne As the name implies, relaxation and massage are front of mind at this Melbourne bathhouse and spa. Comma is a place where people come to pause and find stillness. Following in the footsteps of its flagship Byron Bay venue, Comma has quickly become known as one of the best bathhouses in Melbourne since it opened in 2024. In addition to a stunning warehouse location, highlights include a private infrared sauna session, which includes a mineral hot tub and cold pail shower; a body brush and lymphatic massage to rejuvenate dehydrated skin; and 'Sticks and Stones', which is the use of thermodynamic basalt stones for deep relaxation. However, no visit to Comma is complete without a massage treatment — choose from 60, 75 or 90-minute massages, depending on how tense you're feeling. You can also enjoy facials, foot massages and leave-in hair treatments. [caption id="attachment_897962" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Visit Victoria[/caption] Alba Thermal Springs & Spa, Fingal If you like the idea of rounding out a wine-filled Mornington Peninsula getaway with some pampering, you'll have to add this luxe spa and thermal springs destination to your itinerary. Fingal's Alba Thermal Springs & Spa is a long-standing wellness sanctuary on the peninsula, attracting locals and visitors alike since its opening in September 2022. Along with pristine natural surroundings, sleek interiors, and 22 geothermal springs and pools, Alba's offers a premium relaxation experience with an impressive menu of treatments and therapies. Depending on what you're into, drop by for a hydration massage or invigorating facial before or after a soak, or set aside a few hours to indulge in one of the top-to-toe spa packages. [caption id="attachment_1010874" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Supplied[/caption] Peninsula Hot Springs, Fingal Less than 90 minutes from Melbourne, it's hard to believe that this natural geothermal wonder is so close to one of Australia's major cities. And at Peninsula Hot Springs, you really do feel miles away from everything — cocooned in greenery and with panoramic outlooks across green rolling hills and out to Bass Strait and Port Phillip Bay, it's hard not to feel relaxed by merely being in the space. As well as bathing in the hot springs, enjoy private mineral bathing, massages and facials. The Fire and Ice experience is also a must, where you hop between two saunas and a minus 25-degree deep freeze, a minus 4-degree ice cave and an ice-cold plunge pool, before heading back into the warmth of the hot springs. The hilltop pool with 360-degree views of the region's natural surrounds is also not to be missed. When you're not bathing, you can grab a coffee at an on-site cafe, set up a picnic in the gardens, or even stay overnight at one of the Eco Lodges or glamping tents. [caption id="attachment_967223" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Supplied[/caption] EQ Wellbeing, South Melbourne Most Melbourne wellness spaces tend to leave you to choose your own adventure — great for those who know how to use such facilities, but perhaps intimidating for people looking for a little extra guidance. Enter EQ Wellbeing. This south Melbourne wellness hub sets up specific wellness journeys throughout its site, each created to target different needs. You'll be told how, and in what order, to use the hammam, sauna, rain room, lounge, plunge pools, and light and sound therapy dome — as you either seek to relax, re-energise or de-stress. The perfect option for those who struggle to make decisions, or those who want to relax without using a single brain cell. [caption id="attachment_1010695" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Supplied[/caption] Trinity Curated Wellness, South Melbourne The newly opened wellness centre, Trinity, is your one-stop shop for a self-care fix south of the Yarra. At Trinity Curated Wellness, each visitor receives a customised health plan, with treatments including hot and cold therapy, an LED lounge and bathhouse, Reiki, kinesiology, individual health coaching, and group classes like hot yoga and breathwork. In our opinion, the main drawcard is the rooftop studio, where you can sit back and enjoy panoramic city views while you zen out. While you do need a membership, the options are flexible and customisable, which means clients can individually tailor their wellness experiences. Newcomers can also suss out whether the vibe is right for them with a drop-in session. And if South Melbourne is a little too far, a second location in Richmond will open in 2026. [caption id="attachment_883370" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Supplied[/caption] Aurora Spa & Bathhouse, Sorrento A new flagship for the award-winning Aurora Spa Group, Aurora Spa & Bathhouse lies within the Continental Sorrento at the tip of Mornington Peninsula. This cutting-edge, 500-square-metre bathhouse is a luxe indoor wellness precinct boasting numerous mineral pools and one of the largest saunas in the southern hemisphere. Offering a modern take on traditional bathing practices, Aurora boasts a suite of state-of-the-art facilities and experiences for you to explore. Along with a Nordic-style sauna, you'll find features like an icy plunge pool, an aromatherapy steam room, the 36-degree sky-lit Daydream Pool, a reflexology pool and a suite dedicated to halotherapy — a treatment that involves breathing in salty air. Meanwhile, the adjoining spa offers treatments ranging from holistic facial therapies and massages to algae body wraps and botanically charged scrubs. [caption id="attachment_1010712" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Studio on Hampton[/caption] Sóma Bathhouse, Essendon Offering a boutique experience that blends recovery and relaxation through temperature contrast therapy, Sóma Bathhouse is loved by locals for its approachable and intimate vibe. The space itself features a four-person infrared sauna, two cold plunges and a luxurious hot mineral spa. For those seeking more privacy, there are two private rooms equipped with a shower, a two-person infrared sauna and a cold plunge. The team at Sóma recommends starting with a hot sauna, followed by a cold plunge, before finishing off with a soak in the bathhouse. Casual communal bathing costs $55 a pop, or you can opt for the private bathing experience for $70. Plus, if you're a first-timer, there is a special offer that gives you access to one communal and one private bathing experience for just $85. Top image: Alba Thermal Springs & Spa courtesy of Visit Victoria
There's no shortage of excellent films these days, and there are plenty of great movies releasing in January, whether you're a regular theatregoer or more comfortable watching at home by renting or streaming the latest blockbusters and indie films. If you've lost track of the release schedule or you're simply curious about what's in theatres this month, as well as what's landing on streaming and VOD (video on demand — renting or buying on your platform of choice), these are all the films the Concrete Playground team will be watching throughout February. Not keen on the movies releasing this month? Check out our guide to all the TV shows hitting streaming this month instead. Zootopia 2 — Out now on VOD and Digital The sequel to Disney's 2016 smash hit Zootopia is now available to watch at home. This time, unconventional police partners Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin) and Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman) are on the case of a reptilian newcomer to the bustling mammal metropolis of Zootopia, which threatens to turn the whole city upside down. Is This Thing On? — In cinemas now There's nothing funny about divorce. At least Alex (Will Arnett) steps up to a NYC comedy club open mic to work with the only material he's got: how his marriage with Tess (Laura Dern) is unravelling right in front of his eyes. Meanwhile, Tess begins to confront the sacrifices she made for their marriage and two children, sending them both on a path of self-discovery that either ends with happy or sad tears for us in the audience. We Bury The Dead — In cinemas now The second zombie film of 2026 shifts the focus from a quarantined UK to Australia, where an experimental military weapon has caused mass devastation in Tasmania. Daisy Ridley (Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker) stars as Ava, who joins a voluntary body retrieval unit to search for her missing husband. Her military overseers insist the dead that "come back online" are docile, but in her search, she discovers they're growing more violent by the hour. Matter of Time — Streaming on Netflix Now Part concert film, part documentary, Matter of Time is a recording of a benefit concert by Pearl Jam frontman Eddie Vedder, organised to raise awareness about EB — a group of incurable genetic skin disorders known as "Butterfly Skin" — interwoven with stories of patients of EB, their families and the staff working to treat the disorders and their intensely uncomfortable symptoms. Wuthering Heights — In cinemas now Without a doubt the 'it' movie of February, Wuthering Heights has all the makings of a modern cinema buzz topic, and seemingly won't pull any punches when it comes to raising pulses and flooding endorphins. What else can possibly happen when the director of Saltburn takes one of the most popular classical romances of all time, casts Australia's most attractive actors across from one another and commissions a soundtrack from Charli XCX? Crime 101 — In cinemas now In their first pairing on-screen outside of the MCU, Chris Hemsworth and Mark Ruffalo are on either side of this cat-and-mouse crime thriller. Hemsworth is a master jewel thief, pursued by a dogged detective (Ruffalo) from heist to heist, until a disillusioned broker (Halle Berry) and a rival thief (Barry Keoghan) get involved in their pursuit of one another, and the lines between hunter and hunted begin to blur. Eternity — Streaming on Apple TV February 13 In this A24 and Apple co-created film, Joan (Elizabeth Olsen) arrives in an afterlife where souls have one week to decide where they're going to spend eternity. However, she is faced with the impossible choice of a partner to spend that eternity with — torn between the man she spent her life with (Miles Teller), who died a week prior to her, and her first love (Callum Turner), who died young and has waited 67 years for her to arrive. EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert — In cinemas February 19 Before you go accusing Bahz Lurhmann of being an Elvis addict, having only just created the Austin Butler-starring biopic four years ago, it was during the production of Elvis that he stumbled upon long-lost footage of the king in his prime. Part documentary, part concert film, Lurhmann has edited together footage of Elvis in his 1970s Vegas residency, 16mm footage of his tours and 8mm clips from the Graceland archives for a one-of-a-kind retrospective on the legendary performer. Jimpa — In cinemas February 19 After debuting in Australia at film festivals, Jimpa is now getting a wider theatrical release in February. Olivia Colman stars as Hannah, a woman travelling with their nonbinary teenager, Frances (Aud Mason-Hyde), to visit their gay grandfather, Jim (John Lithgow). When Frances reveals they want to stay with "Jimpa" for the year, Hannah is forced to look back on her past to reconsider herself as a parent. Pillion — In cinemas February 19 Part of the programming for this year's Mardi Gras Film Festival, as well as getting a wide theatrical release, Pillion focuses on the quiet wallflower Colin (Harry Melling), content to let life pass him by, until he meets biker Ray (Alexander Skarsgård). With their chemistry blazing hot, Colin enters the passionate world of BDSM after Ray takes Colin on as his submissive. Splitsville — Streaming on HBO Max February 25 A similarly steamy film, Splitsville sells itself as "an unromantic comedy," in which two couples collide with different dynamics, boundaries and expectations of one another. Carey (Kyle Marvin) and Ashley (Adria Arjona) are monogamous, but are on the edge of divorce. Carey seeks advice from his best friend Paul (Michael Angelo Covino) and his wife Julie (Dakota Johnson), only to discover they're in an open relationship. Misunderstandings ensue, and friendships quickly devolve into chaos. The Bluff — Streaming on Prime Video February 25 In the 18th century Caribbean, a former pirate (Priyanka Chopra) has made a quiet life for herself on a remote island with her family. But when old allies turned enemies (New Zealand's own Karl Urban and Temuera Morrison, among others) come looking for her, she has to return to her old life as 'Bloody Mary' to protect her children from the evils of her past. The Testament of Ann Lee — In cinemas February 26 Amanda Seyfried steps into another musical role, but one far different from her previous performances, as Ann Lee, the leader of the Puritan Shakers movement. Lee, a woman preacher believed by her followers to be the second coming of Christ, must shepherd her flock across the Atlantic to found one of the largest utopian societies in American history. Scream 7 — In cinemas February 26 All these years later, it's still not a good idea to play a game when Ghostface picks up the phone. This time, Neve Campbell returns as franchise final girl Sidney Prescott, who must defend her daughter (Isabel May) becomes the new target of another Ghostface killer. Sirāt — In cinemas February 26 Part of the 2026 Academy Award lineup as a nomination for Best International Feature Film and Best Original Screenplay, Sirāt follows a father and his young son who travel deep into the mountains of Southern Morocco, searching for his lost daughter in the unfamiliar world of dance culture. In The Blink Of An Eye — Streaming on Disney+ February 27 In The Blink Of An Eye follows a commonality throughout human history: the desire to connect with one another. That concept is explored through three eras: a Paleolithic family (Jorge Vargas, Tanaya Beatty) surviving in a harsh world, a woman in the present day (Rashida Jones) entering a new relationship, and a woman in the far future (Kate McKinnon) on a journey through space. For more movies releasing this month, check your local theatre website or a streaming platform of your choice. Images: Supplied | Warner Bros.
South Yarra scores a new neighbourhood hangout, with Bar Yarra setting up shop in the space formerly housing Ovolo Hotel's Lona Misa. The day-to-night diner offers everything from brekkie and lunch (from February), to coffee and snacks, to cheeky evening nightcaps. "Bar Yarra is designed to be a place people can drop into at any point in the day – whether that's for a quick coffee, a long lunch or a drink that turns into dinner," says Christos Pavlidis, General Manager of Ovolo Hotel South Yarra. "It's relaxed, approachable and very much about creating a genuine local for the community." Head chef Santiago Ospina's menu is simple and refined, built to share, and showcases staple dishes shaped from local ingredients. For breakfast, try Scandinavian plates like smoked salmon and pickled veg, or cross continents and taste Middle Eastern shakshuka with whipped feta. If you're enjoying a visit or staycation at Ovolo Hotel, make it a real celebration with Bloody Marys or sparkling mimosas. Come evening, snack on snappy fresh crudites or crisp fried calamari, and make the tough choice between the likes of striploin steak frites, the Yarra Smash Burger with dirty mayo, or pumpkin ravioli with miso butter. Perfect for a post-work pop-in, Bar Yarra's happy hour from 5 to 7pm features $8 wines, $10 spirits and pints, $15 cocktails, and $10 snacks. Throwback Thursdays will see DJs spinning nostalgic vinyl, set to become a neighbourhood weekly ritual. Pavlidis says, "Bar Yarra is about opening the space up to everyone. It's approachable, energetic and built around great food, great drinks and good times. We're excited to welcome the neighbourhood in and see the venue take on a whole new life." Following a recent trend of chef-in-residency programs popping up around town, Bar Yarra will welcome its first residency, Auto Greek, from the end of February until the end of March. Led by none other than George Calombaris, the pop-up will showcase Calombaris' signature Greek fare, inspired by his recent trip to Athens. "The term 'Auto' comes from the Greek word for 'always on', and represents one of my favourite things about Greek hospitality: it never falters. Bar Yarra is the perfect home for the pop-up — a genuine local that people can drop into at any point of the day and for whatever they need, whether a quick coffee, a long lunch, or an apero that turns into dinner." The all-day menu is simple, approachable, and reasonably priced, with many dishes under $30, making it easy to drop in after work or for a quick lunch. For breakfast, enjoy a light start with Greek yoghurt, honey and walnuts alongside a frappe, or go big with the Big Greek Breakfast. A standout item is sure to be Calombaris' tuna gyros, sitting alongside vibrant dishes such as deviled egg avgolemono, chicken paidakia, crunchy slaw and pasticcio with braised kangaroo tail. And the benefit of being conveniently located within Ovolo Hotel means you can turn dinner into an overnight stay with the Greek Getaway Package. With rates starting at $350 per night, enjoy a feed me menu, a cocktail on arrival, and breakfast for two the following morning. "We are thrilled to have our long-time friend George Calombaris at Bar Yarra for its first residency. With the excitement for Greek food in Australia ever-growing, we couldn't think of a better fit than both the Auto Greek concept, and George himself, for this first residency, as one of the first chefs who spearheaded Greek cuisine in this country," says Christos Pavlidis, General Manager of Ovolo Melbourne. Images: Ashley Ludkin.
Hector's Deli has taken the humble sandwich to greater heights, helping to kick-start a new era for Melbourne's sangie scene. Sure, it's not exactly reinventing the wheel, but the fact that you're getting a damn good sandwich each and every time keeps people flocking to its six stores across town. However, there's more to Hector's than just toasties, fresh sandwiches and doughnuts. The crew behind the American-inspired deli is also a fashionable bunch, with regular merch drops and collabs with admired brands like menswear label Porter James, an increasingly common part of the sandwichmaker's lasting success. Now, Hector's is ready to reveal its latest finger-licking collab. This time teaming up with global fashion retailer UNIQLO, the deli's fans can now deck themselves out in a series of wearable love letters to Melbourne. Just like the satisfying flavours whipped up by the kitchen crew, this collab nails the basics. View this post on Instagram That means two t-shirts and a pair of tote bag designs, all featuring Hector's classic red-and-white branding, so you can rep your love of a good sandwich (and doughnuts) as you wander the streets. Available at UNIQLO Emporium, which recently reopened after a major transformation, the collaboration is part of UNIQLO's first Australian UTme! Collection. This service invites customers to design fully personalised t-shirts and tote bags in-store, tailoring photos, images and text to express their individual style and culture. Besides Hector's Deli, UNIQLO has also partnered with other local artists and creators, with Brunswick-based artist, designer and author Beci Orpin and multidisciplinary artist Docg also creating exclusive designs for the Melbourne-inspired collection. The Hector's Deli x UNIQLO UTme! Collection is available at UNIQLO Emporium for a limited time. Head to the website for more information.
Great Southern Nights has just dropped its lineup for 2026, confirming the return of the multi-city festival of Aussie-made music for its fifth run, and showcasing a list of huge names and a mix of genres that will bring it to life in 2026. If you've never paid it any mind before, a TLDR: where most venues pick one venue to roll with, GSN picks hundreds. Hundred of venues calls for hundreds of gigs, and 2026 will see over 300 performances take place on stages from the South Coast up through Sydney, out as far west as Dubbo and all the way up to Byron Bay, from Friday, May 1 to Sunday, May 17. The lineup is just as expansive, too, bringing legends and rising stars alike together across the state. [caption id="attachment_1070441" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Jesse Thompson[/caption] First up is a 2026 GSN first: Live Fest. The curated, single-day event is first taking place in Dubbo, featuring country and folk icons Paul Kelly, Missy Higgins and Kasey Chambers, indie rockers The Cruel Sea, funk legends The Cat Empire and rising genre-defying songwriter Jess Hitchcock. Then the fun heads to Tamworth with indie pop and local rock talent like Jet, The Living End, Kita Alexander, Thelma Plum and Lime Cordiale. For the rest of the statewide program, well, you can imagine there's plenty of artists to pick from. Some of the standout names are Jessica Mauboy, Peking Duk, Genesis Owusu, Ball Park Music, The Whitlams, Playlunch, Jack River, Meg Mac, Young Franco, Gordi, Keli Holiday, The Grogans, WILSN and many, many more. [caption id="attachment_1070442" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Matt Jelonek[/caption] Great Southern Nights is organised in part by Destination NSW and ARIA, helping to drive visitation to cities across the state, instead of just piling crowds into the same Sydney venues and regional fields year after year. Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said, "Great Southern Nights shows the power of live music to bring people together and create energy in communities right across NSW. When you see local venues buzzing and artists performing in towns big and small, you really feel the impact these experiences have beyond the stage". [caption id="attachment_1070443" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Georgi Griffiths for Destination NSW[/caption] CEO of ARIA Annabelle Herd added, "Great Southern Nights is about connecting audiences of all ages across NSW with the unique joy of great live music and showing up for the places that support it. Bringing iconic artists to multiple regions across NSW creates big, shared moments for local communities, friends, and families". Visit the Great Southern Nights website to browse the full program and start planning your trip to any one of the participating cities.
Much like its vinyl obsession (with the highest concentration of record stores per capita in the world), Melbourne is fevered with vintage fashion. Magpies, old souls and arbiters of taste flock here in search of archival frocks, well-worn Docs, and '70s stock — creating one of the most extensive and diverse ecosystems of vintage clothing stores in the country. While Fitzroy and Brunswick often come to mind, it'd be remiss for serious collectors to ignore the gems hidden in unlikely neighbourhoods and unassuming buildings. From haute couture finds in halcyon Hampton, to one of the world's most comprehensive Commes des Garçons archives tucked beneath Rooftop Bar in Curtin House, Melbourne's vintage scene is rich, layered, and full of pre-loved pieces waiting to begin their next chapter. SWOP 8 Peel St, Collingwood View this post on Instagram A post shared by SWOP (@_swop) As the name suggests, the Collingwood favourite — with beloved outposts in Sydney and Brisbane — invites everyday tastemakers to swap their (good-quality) clothes and accessories for cash or in-store credit. Unlike some seconds stores, SWOP doesn't take on just any Depop-friendly wardrobe — their expert curation looks for on-trend, sustainable, and archival looks from brands such as Dries Van Noten, Acne Studios, Issey Miyake and more. With swish interiors in a New York-inspired warehouse, you'll be lost in a vintage state of mind. Paris '99 281 Hampton St, Hampton View this post on Instagram A post shared by Yahav Ron (@yahav_paris99) Who knew Paris was only a 30-minute drive bayside? Since 2011, Yahav Ron, a fashion reseller and designer, has been alchemising couture looks, curating a salon-style experience for discerning sartorialists from his studio on Hampton Street. The by-appointment-only showroom exhibits Parisian flair and luxury goodness — with hard-to-source pieces in inclusive sizing (from sizes six to 16) across brands such as Alexander McQueen, Balenciaga, Alaia, and Tom Ford. Come for the collection, stay for the champagne service. Lost and Found Market 288 Brunswick St, Fitzroy View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lost and Found Market (@lostandfoundmarket) To the naked eye, Lost and Found's almost as hidden as a secret garden. But to locals or those in-the-know, all it takes is an unassuming door and a flight of stairs to arrive at Fitzroy's bazaar. The vintage mecca houses everything from quirky clothing to well-loved trinkets, even groovy records, and eclectic knick-knacks for collectors and sentimentalists. Pieces come from a variety of vintage sellers, offering diverse price points, eras, and styles. A bopping soundtrack also helps you get in the mood. Reina Melbourne Level 3/252 Swanston St, Melbourne View this post on Instagram A post shared by Reina Melbourne (@reinamelbourne) Less rave cave, more whimsy — Reina embraces chic femininity with an anthology of French girl favourites. Also within Curtin House, the pastel-hued archival specialist— (founded by former Parsons School of Design student, Romy Theodore) —has everything from collared Miu Miu coats, to sought-after Prada prints, and even ballet slippers a la Chanel, all from the early 1990s to the mid-2000s. There's even a scattering of Japanese designers, such as Yohji Yamamoto, for a dollop of avant-garde. Goodbyes 2 Johnston St, Collingwood 127 Sydney Rd, Brunswick 142 Commercial Rd, Prahran View this post on Instagram A post shared by Goodbyes (@goodbyes) Farewells are never easy, unless you're consigning here. If you want to give your well-worn piece a new home or adopt a new staple, Goodbyes is all about the circle of (fashion) life. With three stores across Melbourne — Brunswick, Collingwood and Prahran — there's plenty of style blueprints and brands to consider. Australian and New Zealand labels shine bright here, as do international designers. You might even pick up a rare leather bag to wear on rotation. Retropolis 1 Newman St, Preston View this post on Instagram A post shared by ✪ Jojolicious Vintage ✪ (@jojolicious.vintage) If you're after something a little more camp, head to the 'burbs for a trip down the rabbit hole. The northside haunt Retropolis has all the idiosyncrasies your vintage heart (or costume party curator) could want: we're talking kitten-covered frocks, bell-bottoms, gogo boots, Roaring Twenties get-ups, and more. You might even find some home decorating inspiration here, with an assortment of mid-century furniture and bric-a-brac. Martin Fella 556 Queensberry St, North Melbourne View this post on Instagram A post shared by Martin Fella North Melbourne (@martinfella) Martin Fella is your favourite vintage store's favourite vintage store. Intimately located in North Melbourne, the teeny treasure trove is big on bags (vintage Celine satchel, anyone?) and archival designs. With most pieces bought at auction, whether it's Australia-wide, Asia or beyond — you're sure to get your hands on the most covetable of garments and accessories. There's also a few options for the fellas, including well-tailored suits, classic dinner shoes, and unique ties. Irvrsbl 116 Greville Street, Prahran 3181 View this post on Instagram A post shared by IRVRSBL (@irvrsbl) Designer threads and Fendi baguettes await at Prahran's Irvrsbl, a boutique vintage destination founded by devotee, Clare Ferra. Before opening the store, Ferra built a reputation sourcing museum-worthy garments for global clients (even fielding enquiries from Loewe for a rare Issey Miyake piece), before turning her focus to more accessible, on-trend finds. Named as a nod to the irreversible passing of time, Irvrsbl now showcases Gucci, Margiela, Rick Owens and other cool-girl favourites online, alongside in-person appointments and styling for dedicated dressers. Vintage Sole 258 Brunswick St, Fitzroy 6/37 Swanston St, Melbourne 489 Chapel St, South Yarra View this post on Instagram A post shared by VINTAGE SOLE (@shopvintagesole) With a penchant for American vintage, Vintage Sole has diner-cool energy — selling everything from Levi's denim to tie-dye tees, motorcycle jackets, and even its hero item: Western boots. Founded in 2005, Vintage Sole has expanded to three stores in Fitzroy, South Yarra, and the CBD, and hand-picks from all over the world. Promising ethically sourced, timeless, and affordable clothing and accessories, rest assured that vintage lovers can build their wardrobe in slow style. Opera 308-310 Rathdowne St, Carlton North View this post on Instagram A post shared by Opera (@opera.opera.opera) Housed within a repurposed Victorian terrace on Rathdowne Street, Opera's about as Melbourne as it gets. But that's where it stops — you'll find a collection so extensive and international here it'll remind you of those hazy Marais shopping days. There's Chloé, Armani, Jean Paul Gaultier, and many more designers — just be mindful, items go fast. Check out the Instagram for a first-glance, first-in-best-dressed purchase. Zinc 56 Sydney Rd, Brunswick View this post on Instagram A post shared by ZINC (@zinc_au) There's no shortage of memorable stores to check out on Melbourne's longest continuous shopping strip, Sydney Road — but if you're in a hurry, make sure Zinc's at the top of the list. With fewer international labels than others, the family-run business celebrates Australian design with bold archival pieces, homegrown designs, and locally-made basics. Tracing our fashion history, while supporting the local creative industry, you'll find vintage and second-hand Carla Zampatti and Scanlan Theodore, with a few Y2K favourites such as Miss Sixty in the mix. Not done supporting Melbourne's independent retailers? Check out our guide to Melbourne's best boutique retailers.
Melbourne might be best known for its world-class restaurants, footy culture and the beloved dim sim, but its growing lineup of independent boutiques deserves just as much attention. From artfully curated multi-brand and consignment stores to singular flagships, the city's retail scene has evolved far beyond the DFOs that once dominated Smith Street. Whether you're a local or just visiting, here's where to find the most thoughtfully curated independent retailers across Melbourne — and why each one is worth a detour. Pan After 38 Cambridge Street, Collingwood View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pan After (@pan_after) Founded by Phoebe Munro, Pan After celebrates design stories and community in equal measure. Set on a quiet Collingwood street, the showroom is filled with carefully sourced pieces from around the world — ceramics, kitchenware, bedding and apothecary included. The space radiates warmth and honesty, thanks to a knowledgeable team who'll happily help you find your next forever piece. SUPPLY Store 29A Sutherland Street, Melbourne CBD View this post on Instagram A post shared by Supply® (@supplystore) Since opening its Melbourne flagship in 2019, SUPPLY has cemented itself as the city's go-to streetwear destination. Founded by Shawn Yates in 2002, the store stocks hard-to-find and limited-release brands like Stone Island, Noah, WTAPS and Death Rites. A cornerstone for sneakerheads and casual shoppers alike, SUPPLY's sense of community is what keeps people coming back. HAVN 198–200 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy View this post on Instagram A post shared by H A V N (@havnstore) HAVN has transformed from a small Fitzroy boutique into a major Gertrude Street fixture. Its spacious, gallery-like interior showcases premium designers including Lemaire, Mfpen, Andersen-Andersen and Orslow. Now with a second location in Torquay, HAVN's thoughtful curation and annual archive sales have cemented it as a favourite for Melbourne locals and coastal shoppers alike. P.A.M. Level 3, Curtin House, 252 Swanston Street, Melbourne View this post on Instagram A post shared by P.A.M. (Perks And Mini) (@perksandmini) For nearly two decades, P.A.M. (Perks and Mini) has defined Melbourne's creative identity. What began as a collaboration between Shauna Toohey and Misha Hollenbach has evolved into a globally recognised label that lives beyond fashion — a cultural force centred on authenticity. Found in Curtin House, P.A.M. remains one of the city's most distinctive boutiques. Handsom 163 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy View this post on Instagram A post shared by Handsom (@handsom) Handsom's flagship store has been a fixture of Gertrude Street for over a decade, beloved for its refined silhouettes and enduring quality. The brand recently reopened following a thoughtful redesign, framed by natural materials and soft light. Owners Sam Rush and Henry Allum describe it best: "It's a continuation of what we've always tried to offer — thoughtful design, genuine service and a sense of community." Mane by STABLE Level 1, 10 Peel Street, Collingwood View this post on Instagram A post shared by MANE (@manebystable) Described as the louder sibling to Albert Park's established STABLE store, Mane by STABLE brings edge and experimentation to Collingwood. Founded by Lauren Nicholls nearly 14 years ago, the brand continues to set the benchmark for brick-and-mortar retail. Expect an impressive roster of local and international labels — from Alix Higgins to Martine Rose and Coperni — plus one of the most inviting blue couches in town. Modern Classics Shop 220 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy View this post on Instagram A post shared by Modern Classic Shop (@modernclassicshop) Stepping into Modern Classics feels like visiting a friend with impeccable taste — approachable yet inspiring. The boutique stocks menswear brands like Drake's, Howlin and Alex Mill, curated with a focus on craftsmanship and timelessness. It's a store that feels as personal as it does aspirational. KLOKE 199/201 Little Collins Street, Melbourne CBD View this post on Instagram A post shared by KLOKE (@kloke) Created in 2011 by husband-and-wife duo Adam and Amy Coombes, Kloke champions durable, refined garments designed with purpose. The brand now spans three Melbourne stores, with the latest on Little Collins Street continuing its holistic approach to design and slow progression — both in its collections and its beautifully pared-back spaces. PDA Shop 264 Johnston Street, Fitzroy View this post on Instagram A post shared by PDA Shop (@__pdashop) Owned by friends Sarah Lamont and Belle Saunders, PDA Shop offers a rotating edit of curated vintage. No two visits are the same — each piece is handpicked for its cut, colour or fabric, creating a showroom that feels equal parts nostalgic and fresh. P. Johnson Tailors Level 3, 145 Russell Street, Melbourne CBD View this post on Instagram A post shared by P Johnson (@pjohnsontailors) P. Johnson Tailors brings modern ease to traditional suiting. The Russell Street showroom offers both ready-to-wear and bespoke pieces crafted from globally sourced fabrics, served alongside espresso or a beer. Every visit is as much about conversation and craftsmanship as it is about clothing. Bruce 165 Queens Parade, Clifton Hill View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bruce Clifton Hill (@bruce_cliftonhill) Bruce specialises in buying and selling high-end Japanese and European designers through a consignment model. Its Clifton Hill location features a rotating curation of secondhand pieces, offering a new treasure hunt every visit. The edit is refined, timeless and wearable — and you'll likely find something you didn't know you needed. Sister Studios 105 Scotchmer Street, Fitzroy North View this post on Instagram A post shared by S I S T E R (@sister_studios) Founded by Emma Cutri, Sister Studios has become a local staple, loved for its distinct style and commitment to thoughtful production. Each garment is designed and made locally with low-impact methods, ensuring pieces are timeless and made to last. E. Nolan Tailors 35 Gertrude Street, Collingwood View this post on Instagram A post shared by E NOLAN (@enolanmelbourne) Emily Nolan is known for crafting genderless, made-to-measure suiting that transitions seamlessly across occasions. Each piece is created using fine fabrics from leading mills, balancing modern wearability with traditional tailoring. The newly opened ready-to-wear salon extends that same attention to craft and comfort. Need to quench your thirst post-retail therapy? Check out our list of Melbourne's Best Wine Bars.
It's not every day you get to hang out with a Hollywood A-lister and step into a fully immersive experience that's as close to the Land of Oz as you'll ever likely encounter. Yet that's precisely what's going down just outside Los Angeles, as Airbnb celebrates the release of Wicked: For Good with the launch of Elphaba's Retreat. Made for Wicked fanatics, this one-of-a-kind experience and overnight stay is worth the international adventure alone. Taking place on Wednesday, December 3, superstar Cynthia Erivo — aka Elphaba in the films — is inviting 20 guests to discover Elphaba's Retreat through a three-hour experience. Stepping into a picture-perfect refuge, those selected will have the chance to hang out with the Grammy, Emmy, Tony-winning and three-time Academy Award nominee that goes far beyond a simple meet-and-greet. On the day, you'll sip tea by the fireside with Cynthia, while a sommelier serves a special blend steeped in forest flora. Then, guests undertake a guided exploration, revealing easter eggs and authentic artifacts from the movies before taking part in a multi-sensory sing-along that brings the Ozian Forest to life. Finally, there's still time for a creative workshop where you'll weave your own witch's broom from willow, moss, poppies and more. Yet this fantastical adventure gets even better for a lucky guest and their plus-one who experience Elphaba's Retreat through an overnight stay. With the witch heading out of town for the night on Saturday, December 6, this whimsical accom filled with whispers will serve as a peaceful after-dark hideaway. Throughout the night, guests can expect a quiet meal and an enchanting evening of non-stop stargazing. Ready to change for good? Guests can now request to book the experience with Cynthia Erivo on the Airbnb website for free, with submissions closing at 2am AEST on Thursday, November 14. At the same time, guests can request to book the overnight stay — you'll have until 2am AEST on Friday, November 21, to submit. Designed as the ultimate Wicked experience, there's no better way to get immersed in Elphaba's world. "Elphaba taught me that our differences are what makes us powerful," says Cynthia Erivo. "Her story transformed me, and I can't wait to share that journey with you." Submissions for the Airbnb Wicked: For Good experience close at 2am AEST on Thursday, November 14, while booking requests for the overnight stay remain open until 2am AEST on Friday, November 21. Head to the website for more information.
For most of the year, European cinema doesn't get much representation in Australia. That is, until Europa! Europa rolls around. Returning for its fifth edition, the festival draws on the rich cinematic talent of continental Europe to create a lineup of 43 of the latest and greatest pictures from 22 countries. Importing them to screens across Australia and New Zealand, you're invited to watch from Thursday, February 19—Thursday, March 19. Leading this year's program is the opening night ANZ premiere of Norwegian director Mona Fastvold's The Testament of Ann Lee, starring Amanda Seyfried in a Golden Globe-nominated performance as the founder of the devotional Christian sect known as the Shakers in the mid-18th century. Other highlights include Willem Dafoe starring in Miguel Angel Jiménez's The Birthday Party, and the Australian premiere of Wunderschöner, the sequel to the 2022 German box-office hit Wunderschön. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZT25stsAtqg "I am excited for audiences to encounter the full breadth of this year's program," Europa! Europa Artistic Director Spiro Economopoulos told Concrete Playground. "Beyond The Testament of Ann Lee, there are bold debut features and new work from established directors, films shaped by moral tension and political pressure without easy answers. That conversation sits at the heart of Europa." Beyond the headline-grabbing films, there are literary adaptations, stories about European musicians, European-made animated films, LGBTQIA+ films, historical stories, documentaries, and a pair of striking retrospectives delving into the work of directors Michelangelo Antonioni and Éric Rohmer. Marking the festival's first Australia- and New Zealand-wide program, film-lovers can catch Europa's incredible flicks at cinemas in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Hobart, plus Auckland if you live across the ditch. Europa! Europa is happening at Melbourne's Classic Cinemas and Lido Cinemas until Thursday, March 19, and Cameo Cinemas until Monday, March 2; Ritz Cinemas in Sydney until Thursday, March 19, Brisbane's Angelika Cinemas and Hobart's State Cinema until Sunday, March 1, and Bridgeway Cinema in Auckland until Wednesday, March 4. Head to the website for more information.
Heading to Moonlight Cinema has been one of the best ways to spend a balmy night across Australia since 1995. Kicking things off 30 years ago with a screening of Tarantino classic Pulp Fiction, the much-loved outdoor cinema is celebrating its milestone birthday with the launch of a special cinematic lineup selected by the audience — The People's Program. While the cinema never misses a beat when it comes to the silver screen schedule, showcasing new releases, timeless masterpieces and family-friendly hits, this time audiences were invited to have their say on which films would return to the big screen. Choices ranged from a curated list of classics, sing-alongs and cult favourites, from Shrek and Dirty Dancing to The Castle and Jurassic Park. "For three decades, Moonlight Cinema has been a quintessential summer ritual for millions of Australians," says John Boero, General Manager of Entertainment Operations, EVT. "The People's Program gives fans the chance to help shape the season and enjoy their most-loved films — under the stars, where Moonlight magic happens." However, there's more to this event than just picking the flicks. Everyone who voted received a 30 percent discount on general admission tickets to The People's Program sessions, screening the top-voted requests from January through March. Plus, voters went into the draw to win a double season pass alongside other stellar prizes to experience Moonlight Cinema at its very best. For the rest of the year, Moonlight Cinema is keeping the program busy with classics and newcomer hits. Looking ahead into March, there'll be premieres and preview screenings for new arrivals like The Moment, Reminders of Him, How to Make a Killing, Hoppers and GOAT, plus screenings of award season frontrunners like One Battle After Another, Sinners, Hamnet and Marty Supreme. For a more retrospective viewing, and the winners of the People's Picks program, audiences nationwide can get tickets to The Hunger Games, Dirty Dancing, Bend It Like Beckham, The Greatest Showman, The Dark Knight, Spirited Away, Shrek 2 and Zoolander. Moonlight Cinema runs in various locations with specific dates from Friday, November 21–Sunday, April 5, 2026. Head to the website for more information.
Now that the Australian Open is back, it can feel like half the city has a racquet in hand. And it's not just the tennis superstars, with more and more pickleball courts offering a space-saving way to rally it up against your best pals across the city. Returning with another summer pop-up until Saturday, February 28, Hilton Melbourne Little Queen Street is serving up rooftop pickleball to budding pros and first-timers alike. Free for hotel guests and the public, this fifth-floor perch has aced the experience both on and off the court. If you head along for a game, you'll encounter a brand-new partnership that elevates the activation in 2026. Teaming up with Mount Franklin, the hotel now has self-serve vending machines stocked with sparkling flavoured water, ready-to-drink cocktails, and refreshing mocktails. Back on the court, returning partners Game4Padel make sure each sun-soaked match delivers a top-notch experience. Meanwhile, leading racquet brand Head has supplied premium equipment for players, plus a tennis-inspired lobby display that gets you in the mood for some rooftop rallies.
As any local will tell you, there's a lot to love about our city's cafe scene — but Melbourne's best bottomless brunch spots are really where it's at. A weekend feast featuring plenty of breakfast foods (and sometimes more lunchy options), good company and a cheeky spot of day drinking — that's ticking a whole lot of boxes right there. Right now, Melbourne's bottomless brunch options are in very strong supply, so we've saved you the effort and rounded up 18 of the best. Fancy some fried chicken and waffles teamed with a few fruity spritzes? Or perhaps you'd like some prawn rolls with a side of drag and a couple of gins? Round up the crew and book a table at one of Melbourne's best bottomless brunch spots. Recommended reads: The Best Cafes in Melbourne The Best Breakfast in Melbourne The Best Things to Do in Melbourne This Weekend The Best Coffee in Melbourne The Best Bars in Melbourne New Quarter, Richmond Unlimited noodles, bottomless booze. That's what's on offer every weekend lunchtime at Richmond's New Quarter. The Vietnamese restaurant — from the team behind Hanoi Hannah, Tokyo Tina and Firebird — has jumped on the Melbourne bottomless brunch train, but is swapping out eggs and avocado on toast for oodles of noodles. For a very modest $49 per person, diners get to choose two snacks from a lineup of mini banh mis, hot and sour oysters, wagyu beef skewers and grilled corn tartlets — before they dive into bowls of unlimited noodles. You can either focus on the food, not letting anything else distract you as you work your way through the noods, or you can add a bottomless booze package to the whole affair. For $40 per person, you'll get two hours of unlimited tap beer, wine and carafes of the crew's house margarita made with makrut and ginger-infused blanco tequila. [caption id="attachment_662927" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jean-Louis Carvalho[/caption] Bodega Underground, CBD Bodega Underground's famed Mexican-inspired bottomless brunch takes over the CBD taqueria every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, with seatings at 11am, 1pm and 3pm. Book your crew in for a brunchtime fiesta at Bodega, one of the best Melbourne CBD restaurants, for $75, and you'll enjoy a lively five-course spread (which just so happens to be entirely gluten-free). The bottomless brunch features favourites like street corn with chipotle mayo and queso, chipotle fried chicken, chicken chilaquiles, and a 12-hour braised birria quesataco. Dessert is also taken care of: classic churros paired with loads of dulce de leche. Vegan brunch lovers can even enjoy their own five-course spread for the same price. To drink, there's 90 minutes of bottomless Mexican-themed sips, including Bodega's go-to guava-infused Mexi-mimosas. The quality and quantity of the offerings help make this one of the best bottomless brunches in Melbourne. Half Acre, South Melbourne With its light-filled atrium-style space and stunning open kitchen, Half Acre makes for quite the beautiful Melbourne bottomless brunch destination. And the huge buffet stacked with produce-driven, seasonal brekkie dishes sure doesn't disappoint, either. Available for two-hour sittings on Saturday and Sunday, access to Half Acre's brunch buffet comes in at $69 per person, which includes a whole host of sweet and savoury options. On Sunday arvos, a special meat station also pops up. For just an additional $29 per person, you can get free-flowing sips, including seasonal cocktails, prosecco, wine and mocktails. Moonhouse, Balaclava Balaclava's Moonhouse is home to some of the best yum chas in Melbourne. It's also one of the few dim sum haunts that offers bottomless booze. Drop by Moonhouse on a Saturday or Sunday to nab the $59 endless yum cha that cycles through 12 different dishes — think XO scallops, chicken and prawn wontons, roast duck pancakes, char siu pork buns, salt and pepper calamari, and prawn dumplings. There's also a totally vegan option for the plant-based diners out there. And if you feel like making a big party out of the whole affair, you can add on unlimited alcohol for $30 per person. Beer and wine are all that's available, but the Moonhouse crew isn't pouring the cheap and nasty stuff. Get around a Hop Nation pale ale, Stomping Ground pilsner, the pinot grigio from Mandi in Mildura and an MDI Friulano skin contact number. The Smith, Prahran Sashay right into your Sunday with a little help from The Smith's weekly Melbourne Drag Brunch series, hosted by local queens. Running two sparkly sittings each weekend (12–2pm and 3–5pm), it's the ultimate OTT Sunday session. Book a table and enjoy all the raucous fun, while tucking into your pick of brunch plate — maybe Belgian waffles or the prawn roll with shiraz gin caviar — and two hours of bottomless booze. Choose from a range of beer and wine, or opt for the specialty spritz lineup. All that for a not-too-shabby $74. This is where you head for some of the best bottomless brunch in Melbourne. But if this seems a bit too much for you, or your mates just aren't into drag (how dare they?), then you can swing by on a Saturday for the crew's soulful gospel choir bottomless brunch that'll set you back $70 per person. MING Dining, CBD We all love a bottomless brunch — whether it comes in the classic eggs and mimosa form, or the more contemporary lunch adaptation where you get a whole lineup of endless cocktails paired with a hefty set menu. Ming Dining's bottomless brunch falls into the latter's definition. From Friday–Sunday, the crew is plating up a seven-course Asian-fusion feed paired with bottomless cocktails, beer and wine for only $69 per person — that's a proper bargain. During the two-hour window, that table will fill up with dumplings, spring onion pancakes, Hiromasa kingfish, Taiwanese calamari, beef short rib bao buns, sweet and sour pork, and a luxe black truffle fried rice. When it comes to cocktails, you can try some of its signature Asian-inspired sips as well as your classic Aperol spritz, espresso martini and spicy margarita. Few Melbourne bottomless brunch spots have such vast offerings (both when it comes to food and bevs), so be sure to take advantage of this one. [caption id="attachment_848176" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Leah Traecey[/caption] Tokyo Tina, Windsor Chapel Street's Tokyo Tina pairs its bingo competitions with bottomless booze and brunch fare every Saturday (12pm and 2.15pm). During this two-hour sitting hosted by Valerie Hex, guests can dab their way towards winning prizes while trying one of the best bottomless brunches in Melbourne. Punters can choose four dishes each, including salmon tartare, crispy five-spice chicken, miso-baked cauliflower, and pan-fried market fish served with finger limes and ponzu. Complimentary kimchi rice and edamame beans are also served at every table. You can either just get the four courses of food for $55, or you can add on unlimited spritzes, bubbles and beer for an additional $24. Nomad, CBD Boozy brunches in Melbourne are hugely popular. But the later-in-the-day bottomless lunch is on the up-and-up. These are for those of us who don't necessarily want to down a heap of mimosas with breakfast while surrounded by hen's parties. Sometimes we just prefer to eat a more grown-up meal paired with a good wine, beer or spritz. Enter Nomad, one of the best restaurants in Melbourne. Here, the crew is showing us exactly what the boozy lunch should look like with its latest Spring Sessions experience. Every Saturday and Sunday, from 12–2.30pm, lunchtime diners in the CBD can get a selection of mezzes and a dessert paired with 90 minutes of free-flowing wine, beer and spritzes for $110 ($65 for food only). We'd consider this to be one of the classiest bottomless booze experiences in Melbourne. Hotel Jesus, Collingwood Hotel Jesus is one of the best Mexican restaurants in Melbourne and is also home to a damn good bottomless brunch. From Friday to Sunday, guests getting the boozy brunch will immediately be greeted with a mimosa on arrival before the onslaught of food lands at the table. This will include house-made guac, salsa and beans served with chips, as well as corn ribs, ceviche tostadas and a couple of tacos. The set menu can't be edited (unless you're vegetarian or vegan), but you do have a bunch of boozy options. Apart from the mimosas, you can also order rounds of sangria, frozen margaritas and beer. This all costs $69 per person, and there's always the option to add more food if you're still hungry. Magic Mountain Saloon, CBD This CBD diner's gutsy modern Thai food and glowing red neon fitout has made it a firm favourite with the dinner crowd. But should you fancy starting your day with a bang instead, you can't go past Magic Mountain Saloon's bottomless brunch in Melbourne's CBD. From 11.30am–1pm each Saturday, you can sit down to menu hits like barbecue chicken skewers, garlic chive dumplings, mozzarella curried rice bowls, prawn tom yum and a heap of fried rice. How much money you part with depends on your chosen drink situation. Include 90 minutes of bottomless booze — beer, wine, spritz and sangria — for $65 per person, or opt for some solid alcohol-free mocktails for an easier $50. Zero Mode, Box Hill The masters of envelope-pushing, innovative fare at Box Hill's Zero Mode are serving up one of the most impressive bottomless brunches in Melbourne. This one's on offer from 10am–3.30pm every day of the week, priced at $109 a head. For that, you'll score a special six-course menu and two hours of free-flowing cocktails, beer and wine. But if you'd rather get boozy at night, stop by for Zero's bottomless dinner, which includes three snacks, one main, one side and a dessert, as well as unlimited cocktails, beer, wine and non-alcoholic drinks for $119. Flour Child, Richmond and St Kilda Flour Child's Richmond and St Kilda bottomless brunches can get super rowdy — especially as they openly welcome hen's groups and big boozy birthday parties to join in on the festivities. Running from Friday–Sunday, the deal includes bottomless cocktail jugs, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic bevs alongside its famed pinsa romana pizzas — 11 different varieties are up for grabs. But unlike most Melbourne bottomless brunches, which charge a flat rate for the experience, Flour Child's prices vary depending on when you visit. Drop by the breakfast session (10.30am–12pm) for $59, the early bird bottomless brunch (12.30–2pm) for $69, the afternoon sessions (2.30–4.30pm) for $79 or the evening session (5–7pm) for $89. The offerings are exactly the same, so those looking to save some money best opt for the earlier times. Fargo and Co, Richmond Fargo & Co's bottomless brunch is a long-held weekend ritual that's not going anywhere, anytime soon. The Richmond venue's boozy brunch feasts run every Saturday — and come in two very different forms depending on when you visit. Drop by on Saturday (for either the 1.30pm or 3.30pm sessions) and you'll get to enjoy the crew's Disco Comboy Brunch. For $75, you get the team's bagel towers with your choice of seafood, meat or vegan fillings, along with access to the bottomless bellini bar to craft your own bellinis just the way you like them (as well as roving entertainment). Prefer unlimited cocktails? Simply pay an extra $20 per person and you can go ham at the bar's cocktail offerings. But if you'd prefer an evening of unlimited bevs, you can also drop by the Sunset Sessions on Friday and Saturdays (from 6–8pm). Get around DJs, unlimited canapes, cocktails and house spirits for $89 per person. [caption id="attachment_775009" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Peter Tarasiuk[/caption] Horn Please, Fitzroy North You can't talk about the best bottomless brunches in Melbourne without raving about Horn Please. This much-loved North Fitzroy Indian restaurant runs its 90-minute 'proudly unauthentic' curry feasts every Saturday and Sunday from 12–3pm. Expect a selection of Indian-inspired street food, creative mains and desserts from the talented hand of North Indian Chef Amar. The $69 feast also comes with an unlimited amount of beer, wine and your choice of the bar's top cocktails. If you want some top-notch Indian food and feel like getting boozy, this deal is a no-brainer. Yakimono, CBD There are stacks of Chris Lukas restaurants in the CBD (Chin Chin, Kisume, Society and Grill Americano), but only Yakimono serves up a bottomless food and bev experience (do note that you can get great bottomless brunch experiences further afield at Hawker Hall and Baby). You can drop by any day of the week from 12–4pm, to get seven share plates and 90 minutes of unlimited alcohol for $88 per person. Your Melbourne bottomless lunch eats might include a kingfish sando, barbecue corn ribs, karaage chicken, charcoal-roasted edamame and panko prawn rolls. And the Yakimono team isn't slinging cheap and nasty booze. Throughout the 90-minute experience, you can order unlimited amounts of Kiko highballs, hibiscus spritzes, prosecco, wine and beer. You can also choose to lengthen the experience to two hours for an additional $22 per person. And while this deal runs every day, the Friday and Saturday sessions are the most fun — with DJs spinning tunes throughout four hours. Hotel Nacional, CBD This five-storey, totally gluten-free Mexican restaurant on Hardware Lane is home to a banger of a bottomless brunch. Running from midday every Friday–Sunday, the deal includes a selection of its most-loved Mexican bar snacks (think tajín-coated corn ribs and housemade potato croquettes) as well as 90 minutes of unlimited classic margaritas, frozen margaritas, prosecco, wine, beer and more. Just be sure to check the weather forecast before booking as Hotel Nacional's bottomless brunch is exclusively available up on the sun-soaked rooftop. This is one of Melbourne's best rooftop bars, and the best way to experience it has got to be with unlimited margaritas in hand. [caption id="attachment_832325" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nicole Cleary[/caption] Fable Rooftop, CBD Fable, the CBD's highest rooftop bar (don't worry, it's got heaters and a retractable awning), is home to one of the best bottomless brunches in Melbourne. Every Saturday, from 1–3pm, the team pairs two hours of unlimited spritzes, prosecco, mimosas and beers with a five-course lunch. If it's a hot Melbourne day, the roof will open up and let the sunshine in while you brunch. But we also love dropping by during a rainstorm. There's something quite romantic about drinking the day away while you're encased in a glass room covered in raindrops. Mr. Miyagi, Windsor Mr. Miagi is proof that despite Melbourne's ever-rotating door of hospitality venues, the best restaurants endure. It's been around for over a decade now, serving up fun and fairly affordable contemporary Japanese fare within a really upbeat space. And one of the most fun times to drop by is during its weekly Loose Lunches. Running from Friday–Sunday, they include a bunch of eats (edamame, salmon nori tacos, fried pork dumplings, sashimi and a dessert) alongside two hours of free-flowing locally sourced wines, SAPPORO beer and specialty cocktails. This costs an easy $69 per person, and can be upgraded with more premium cocktails for an additional $20 per person — this gets you unlimited cold drip martinis and margaritas throughout the two-hour booking. Bang Bang, Elsternwick Here's one you won't have to rise too early for: Bang Bang hosts its Indochine bottomless brunch from 12pm (and 3pm) every Saturday and Sunday, treating guests to a parade of shared snacks paired with unlimited drinks for an easy $59. Plates might include the likes of tuna ceviche, crispy pork belly pancakes, chiangmai chicken, a crispy rice salad and plenty of roti. The drinks list offers plenty of choice, too. Wash down your brunch feast with free-flowing mimosas, prosecco, local wines and spritz, or a cheeky gin and juice. You can even amp up your Melbourne bottomless boozy brunch by adding free-flowing French champagne for an extra $45 per person. Blacksmith Bar and Grill, CBD Picture this: you, your mates, and a bottomless feast with a view that's as beautiful as the food on your plate. Every Saturday, for $75 a head, you'll have the chance to down free-flowing Dal Zotto wines and limoncello, plenty of different beers and a heap of eats right on Blacksmith Bar & Grill's sun-soaked terrace. Indulge in beetroot-cured Atlantic salmon, a stacked tapas board, Korean fried chicken and decadent waffles with berries, ice cream and chocolate sauce during this epic bottomless brunch in Melbourne's CBD. Evie's Disco Diner, Fitzroy The sparkly disco vibes of Evie's are the perfect antidote to a big ol' work week, so it's handy the venue's bottomless drag bingo brunch is now yours to enjoy between 11am and 4pm every Saturday and Sunday. Book in anytime before 11:45 to catch the bingo (which ends at 2pm), or opt for a later session to just get the food and booze. Whichever you choose, you'll find yourself enjoying your choice of fun brunch dish; perhaps the chicken and waffles, sausage and egg muffins, or french toast doused in maple syrup and crispy bacon. There are vegan options aplenty and not one, but two different booze packages. Team your brunch plate with free-flowing mimosas, wine, beer and cider for $69, or enjoy all of that plus free-flowing espresso martinis, frozen margs and spritzes for an extra $30. Top images: New Quarter by Ashley Ludkin.
It's hurrah for Huzzah as Glen Iris lands a new place to eat, drink, and hang. The massive new destination, which boasts an all-weather beer garden, bar, and restaurant, was built on the simple premise of good food, great drinks, generous hospitality, and a sense of community. Huzzah is the personal project of founder Steve Jeffares, who co-founded other large-scale drinking institutions, including Stomping Ground Brewery, The Local Taphouse and GABS Craft Beer Festival. With Huzzah, he wants people to think of it not as a destination bar but as a community hub that locals are keen to return to again and again. "Huzzah is about finding joy in the everyday. It's a place to drop in for one drink and accidentally stay for three. Somewhere relaxed, welcoming and unpretentious — the kind of venue you want in your neighbourhood," says Jeffares. The all-weather beer garden caters to all four seasons in one day, with a retractable roof, ample natural light, and fresh air. And while you may be happy perched on a stool at the bar, for those with more energy, they can enjoy a bocce court, pool table and darts. You won't go hungry or thirsty with plenty of pub classics available, and a proudly local-leaning drinks list. At the heart of the drinks offering is NeighbourGOOD, Huzzah's house beer brewed by Stomping Ground. Reflecting the bar's community spirit, proceeds from each pint sold will be donated to community clubs and initiatives. Jeffares says, "If you're going to drink a beer anyway, it might as well do some good." Images: Supplied.
When you think of alpine luxury, you're probably picturing France, Switzerland or Colorado. Yet a reimagined five-star stay awaits that won't take the better part of 24 hours to reach on a plane. Enter New Zealand's newest indulgent stay — Coronet Ridge Resort — an intimate 41-room retreat perched above Queenstown's Shotover River. Previously known as the Nugget Point Hotel, an NZD $30-million renovation brings a new level of luxury to the edge of the Coronet Peak Ski Area. Meticulously crafted from top to bottom, guests can make the most of the Southern Alps' dramatic landscapes and rest in quiet luxury at the end of the day. Just a few minutes' drive from central Queestown, each room and suite features a private balcony or patio that invites spectacular mountain vistas. Meanwhile, the interiors emanate highland warmth through bespoke timber joinery, natural tones and thoughtfully curated objects. Dining is also a highlight, with the Elevation Bar & Restaurant offering a standout experience from its soaring vantage point. Set against panoramic views of the Wakatipu Basin and the Remarkables mountain range, Executive Chef Dominic Dsouza delivers a seasonally-inspired menu spanning gourmet breakfast to apres-ski bites. Start the day with buerre noisette pancakes, then round out with acclaimed Royalburn lamb. Whether you're dining en plein air or inside, the setting is suitably stylish with an open kitchen and bar offering a glimpse of the restaurant's culinary and cocktail theatrics. Plus, once winter arrives, the ultra-cosy Library Bar proves inviting with a roaring fireplace and a drinks menu brimming with single-malt whiskies alongside wines carefully selected from Central Otago's renowned vineyards. Contrasting with its rugged ridgeline, the hotel's amenities offer incredible relaxation, immersed in crisp mountain air and native flora. Guests can enjoy a Roman-inspired day spa with the signature treatment, The Ridge Journey, offering a three-hour experience featuring full-body exfoliation, a hydrating body wrap and a 75-minute massage and facial using luxe NZ-made skincare products from RAAIE and Corbin Rd. Plus, there are outdoor hot tubs, squash courts, a premium fitness centre and even a private cinema to heighten your time on the slopes. "We are delighted to welcome guests to experience a new era of luxury hospitality amid the secluded beauty of New Zealand's Southern Alps. Coronet Ridge Resort is a sanctuary where the peace and tranquillity of its location allow guests to enjoy a soul-soothing getaway yet still be minutes away from the excitement of central Queenstown," says Clare Davies, Founder and Managing Director of Capstone Hotel Management. Coronet Ridge Resort is now accepting bookings at 146 Arthurs Point Road, Queenstown, with special opening rates available from $650 per night. Head to the website for more information.
In case you don't already have enough reasons to attend SXSW Sydney in 2025, here's more: the event's Music Festival keeps adding to its lineup, with over 50 new performers joining the bill, plus a heap of presenters as well. The latest round of names follows past announcements across all things SXSW Sydney for this year, spanning speakers, an initial batch of local and international acts, high-profile guests, more bands and folks getting chatting, Paul Feig and a 14-hour Freaks and Geeks marathon, and Tumbalong Park's free programming. Even beyond all of the above so far, there's also still lineup drops to come. Ninajirachi, 2charm, Drifting Clouds, Whitney, Picture This, Le Boom, Sonic Reducer, xiao xiao, Angela Ken, Maki, Modern Cinema Master, Lex Amor, Amy Gadiaga: they're now on the Music Festival bill, taking to the stage across Monday, October 13–Sunday, October 19. As for where you'll be catching them, SXSW Sydney's already-hefty range of venues is expanding, too, with The Eveleigh Hotel, Embassy Conference Centre, and outdoor stages at the Seymour Centre and on Kensington Street among the new places to hit up. Laneway Festival Co-Founder Danny Rogers, ARIA CEO Annabelle Herd, Support Act Wellbeing Content & Programs Lead Ash King, Skillbox Founder and CEO Anmol Kukreja, Backlash Productions's Tour and Production Manager Jamal Chalabi, UNIFIED's CEO Jaddan Comerford are just some of the speakers adding a little more conversation to the bill — and so are Tickets for Good Founder and CEO Steve Rimmer, Strawberry Fields Director Tara Medina and others. SXSW Sydney has also confirmed that a lengthy list of organisations will be putting on events, including American Apparel, APRA AMCOS, British Music Embassy, College of Hip Hop Knowledge, GYROstream, Impressed Recordings, Laneway Festival x Outside Lands, Moshtix, NPCC presents Taiwan Now, Rolling Stone, Virgin Music and more. The last dedicated Music Festival reveal came in June, and featured the likes of Rashmeet Kaur, Vandelux, The Thing and August Wahh, plus Tenxi & Jemsii, Holly Hebe, Munan and Yasmina Sadiki. In total, this year's fest is due to feature more than 300 music performances. Before that, the festival had already announced Jasmine 4.t, Freak Slug and Ristband + Pivots from the UK; Slowwves from Thailand; Japan's Suichu Spica 水中スピカ; New Zealand's Serebii and Tusekah; and Cardinals from Ireland; and Autralia's Jamaica Moana, JJ4K, RICEWINE, Sacred Hearts, Swapmeet and BADASSMUTHA. SXSW Sydney 2025 runs from Monday, October 13–Sunday, October 19 at various Sydney venues. Head to the SXSW Sydney website for further details. Select SXSW Sydney images: Brendon Thorne/Getty Images for SXSW Sydney // Jess Gleeson.
Just about everyone has a Revolver story to tell. Can you really say you've lived in Melbourne without one? Over the years, world-class artists from Snoop Dogg to Fred Again have nearly lifted the roof off Revs, with revellers carving things up in front of the cage or sinking into the slightly suspect couches until sunrise has come and gone. Now the iconic Chapel Street building that holds those memories is up for sale, with this cornerstone of Melbourne's cultural fabric going under the hammer in November. Of course, Revolver Upstairs and its surprisingly good Thai restaurant, Colonel Tan's, are the best-known tenants, occupying about a quarter of the total property. Yet more than 30 commercial businesses operate from the address, including creative studios, offices, coworking spaces, meeting and event venues, retail stores and a coffee bar. Spanning 1287 square metres, the early word is that this vast property could fetch upwards of $15 million. Built in 1914, the so-called Revolver Building began its life as a large music venue in the mid-90s when Thai pop star Tan Punturaumporn bought the property for $770,000. At first, Punturaumporn opened Revolver Music Gallery, a record store, on the lower floor, before Revolver Rehearsal Studios took over the space in the back. However, after teaming up with local nightclub buff and restaurateur Camillo Ippoliti, Revolver Upstairs was born. These days, Tan has stepped back from running the show — though his legacy lives on through Colonel Tan's — with his return to Thailand prompting the building's sale. "The Revolver brand carries its own unmistakable cache and preserving its cultural and community value is central to this sales process. The vendors are looking for a new custodian who understands this cultural value and have chosen to auction the property to highlight its energy and status as a functional work of art," says long-time building manager Kurt Falkenstein. Interest in the southside landmark is expected to be strong, with the nightclub still holding a rare 24-hour liquor license. Set on a prime stretch of Chapel Street real estate, the Revolver Buildings offer the ideal combination of character, heritage and commercial potential. Meanwhile, the forthcoming auction includes the large loft above the nightclub, featuring nine-metre ceilings and sweeping views over the city and surrounds. If you're keen to secure the joint for yourself, Revs is up for public sale at 4.30pm on Friday, November 14. "The Revolver Buildings have been a cultural touchstone for Melbourne's nightlife and creative community for decades," says Sean Cussell, Principal at Christie's International Real Estate Victoria. "Opportunities to acquire a trophy property of this stature, with both strong income and extraordinary legacy, are exceptionally rare." The Revolver Buildings go up for public sale at 4.30pm on Friday, November 14. Head to the website for more information.
It's no secret that Melbourne boasts a bountiful array of bangin' bakeries. From traditional European-style bakehouses to Japanese-inspired cafes, Middle Eastern bakeries to sourdough specialists, Melburnians are truly blessed with the best of the best. There are so many outstanding options that sometimes you need a bit of guidance (or else just follow your nose and chase the inimitable smell of freshly baked bread), so we've done the carb-loaded work for you and rounded up the best bakeries in Melbourne. Here you will find classic croissants, savoury-stuffed pita pockets, seeded sourdoughs, seasonal danishes, soft shiopans and crackled melon pans, crowd-favourite egg sandwiches, chewy bagels, thick cookies, and so much more. Some are quiet and calm hideouts, many require time in a line, some are new with a few old favourites, but what they all have in common is that they produce consistent, top-quality, doughy and buttery goods that make your day instantly better. Recommended reads: The Best Cafes in Melbourne The Best Coffee in Melbourne The Best Restaurants in Melbourne The Best Boozy Bottomless Brunches in Melbourne
When you're doing an office coffee run, it's widely expected that you'll do what it takes to get the best cup possible. Whether it's hoofing it an extra block, through Bourke Street Mall or around the Metro Tunnel construction — no obstacle is too great when it comes to snagging the best coffee in Melbourne's CBD. Luckily, our fine city centre is dotted with roasters and cafes turning great single-origin and house blends into espresso, filter and cold brew coffees — you just need to know where to find them. So here we give you the best coffee shops in the city. Seek them out, and you'll be rewarded with both taste and gratitude from your caffeine-hungry co-workers. Recommended reads: Where to Find the Best Coffee in All of Melbourne The Best Cafes in Melbourne The Best Breakfast in Melbourne The Best Bakeries in Melbourne
Tired of grocery prices going up? Now's your chance to buy in bulk and save, as Epping's Melbourne Market opens to the public for the first time. Launching at 8.30am on Saturday, January 31, Melbourne Market Super Saturdays will become a weekly event, where this typically wholesale market transforms into a vibrant destination for fresh produce and flowers. So, shop as the industry does, buying in bulk to store at home or even share the love with family, friends and neighbours. To entice you into this sprawling space, Melbourne Market has put together a host of opening-day specials, including five-kilogram trays of juicy V.F. Siciliano peaches and nectarines for $25 or Latorres eggs for $2 per dozen. "Opening the wholesale market to the public for the first time means families can access fruit and vegetables at great value, while getting a unique insight into where Melbourne's food comes from," says Melbourne Market Acting CEO Malcom Lum. Besides roaming the stacked stalls, Melbourne Market Super Saturdays is intended for the whole family. Once you've scored a few trading floor deals, head over to the food trucks to grab a bite to eat, with potato twists, banh mi, burgers, bureks and ice creams on offer. Plus, the kids will appreciate free face painting while munching on just-picked fresh fruit.
Just about every local has an opinion about where to get the best coffee in Melbourne. So many people have a favourite barista who has memorised their order, sometimes even making it before they get to the front of the line. Those with overly complicated coffee requests will have a preferred cafe that serves it up without judgement — we're looking at you weak, three-quarter decaf oat latte orderers. And then there are the hardcore Melbourne coffee snobs who can smell a badly extracted shot of coffee before they even taste it. And don't even try to serve them burnt milk. But no matter how much you love your morning cup of joe and how you like to drink it, the best Melbourne coffee spots will have you sorted — especially if it's a coffee roastery. These guys are the most serious about their caffeine-filled bevs, taking great care to create the best tasting coffee possible. Heaps of them make this list, so read on to find one near you. Recommended reads: The Best Cafes in Melbourne The Best Coffee Shops in Melbourne's CBD The Best Bakeries in Melbourne The Best Breakfast in Melbourne
You work hard, you play hard and gosh you should get to relax hard too —and what better way to do that than with a healthy dose of luxury down at one of the best spas in Melbourne? Spend your day of self-care kicking around in a comfy robe, being pampered like a boss and having all the time in the world to enjoy yourself, stress-free. Well, that idyllic image is an easy one to tap into since Melbourne is home to a vast array of top-notch spa destinations (often in some of Melbourne's best hotels). Whatever your budget, skin type, or go-to massage style, there's a luxurious spa treatment for you right near the CBD. Go get your glow on and thank us after you've found your inner peace at one of the best day spas in Melbourne. Recommended reads: The Best Natural Hot Springs in Victoria The Best Glamping Spots Near Melbourne The Best Heated Swimming Pools in Melbourne The Best Date Ideas in Melbourne Inner Studio, Collingwood While Inner Studio doesn't offer massages and beauty treatments, it does have all the essential day spa facilities you need for a proper self-care sesh. You can either drop by to use the different plunge pools and sauna in your own way, or you can sign up for one of its wellness classes. You can take a group breathwork class or yoga workout — followed by plenty of spa time — to help you manage stress, relax and regain some energy. Individual classes and sauna sessions cost $45 a pop, while the weekly memberships range from $65–$75 depending on whether you just want to roam the facilities or would prefer to also participate in classes. Whichever option you choose, you've got to make a little time for relaxing by the fireplace, sipping on some tea before heading back into the real world. EQ Wellbeing, South Melbourne Most Melbourne spas tend to set up cool spaces full of wellness technologies and then simply leave you to choose your own adventure. This can be great for those who know how to use such facilities, but there are a lot of us out there who could do with some guidance. EQ Wellbeing addresses this by setting up specific wellness journeys throughout its site, each created to target different needs. You'll be told how and in what order to use the hammam, sauna, rain room, lounge, plunge pools, and light and sound therapy dome — as you either seek to relax, re-energise or de-stress. And while EQ prefers not to be labelled as a spa — it basically is. And it is a damn unique one at that. The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne CBD Other Melbourne spas struggle to compete with the total luxury offered at the Ritz-Carlton, and none come close to having such spectacular views — for its spa is located all the way up on the 64th floor. And you don't only get to gawk at the views from the large infinity pool. The men's and women's bathrooms also have views across the city, which you can admire from the plunge pool, sauna and steam room. On top of that, each of the treatment rooms has floor-to-ceiling windows — which is great even if it is a little wasted on you while your head is down on the table. When it comes to treatments, you've got the lot. Massages start at $230 for an hour, and facials begin at $240, plus there are stacks of add-ons and packages. For example, the Blue Rose Experience includes a foot ritual, mud body wrap, and full body massage with warm jade stones ($540), and the Indulgent Rose Experience includes a foot ritual, rose oil massage, and facial with rose quartz gua sha ($540). The therapists here are outstanding, and worthy of the high price. Park Club Health and Day Spa at The Park Hyatt, East Melbourne With five stars to its name, the Park Hyatt is a study in luxury and its onsite Melbourne day spa is no different. This one offers a whole range of therapeutic massages and facial services, along with rejuvenating body treatments designed to blast away toxins and leave that skin in ship-shape condition. Get your glow on with the revitalising wattleseed body polish (a wattleseed and walnut exfoliating scrub designed to brighten, soften and renew the skin, $195), or try the purifying lemon myrtle clay body wrap ($280), that begins with a foot cleanse and exfoliation and is aimed at detoxifying your skin and body. Spa treatments lasting an hour or longer will even get you complimentary valet parking and access to all the wet areas in this luxury Melbourne spa. About Time Bathhouse, Torquay Mornington Peninsula is home to stacks of world-class day spas and bathing spots, but the Surfcoast has long lagged behind. Fortunately, things are looking up for this side of Victoria's coastline, thanks to the late-2024 opening of About Time — a luxe day spa and bathhouse located in Torquay. The Torquay spa is fully equipped for all your luxury bathing needs within its brutalist building. Inside, it has a magnesium pool, cold plunge pool, traditional sauna and steam room, plus private infrared saunas and ice baths that can be booked for groups of up to eight people. Step outside to the garden surrounded by towering gum trees, and you'll find hot and cold magnesium pools that are tailor-made for social bathing with mates. Those after treatments can also get all your usual Melbourne spa offerings. [caption id="attachment_747192" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Rhiannon Taylor[/caption] Lancemore Mansion Hotel Spa, Werribee Park A trip to the stunning Lancemore Mansion Hotel Spa might just change your definition of luxury. Firstly, it's housed in a grand historic mansion that'll have you feeling like Marie Antoinette. Secondly, the day spa itself boasts an air of exclusivity, featuring gorgeous spaces, ambient sounds, and a menu of primo massages and spa packages designed for maximum pampering. Find yourself easily tempted by lush sounding options like the Sparkling Indulgence ($295): a full body exfoliation followed by a 30-minute neck back and shoulder massage as well as a 30-minute replenishing facial. Conclude your Melbourne spa treatment with a cheeky glass of bubbly in its luxe lounge. [caption id="attachment_803436" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jess Tremp[/caption] Sense of Self, Collingwood Housed in a stunningly converted Collingwood warehouse, Sense of Self is flipping the script on the usual wellness concept, instead delivering a "no BS" offering centred on inclusivity, connection and restoration. The soaring, light-filled space takes its cues from the bathhouses of Europe, Africa and Japan, with an abundance of greenery designed to soothe and uplift. A massage and mindfulness studio upstairs offers various relaxation and remedial treatments, like the extra deep The Fix massage (from $170 for 60 minutes). Or, you can settle in and get acquainted with the range of bathhouse facilities, including a Finnish sauna, a 39-degree mineral bath and a cold plunge pool. Entry to one of the best spas in Melbourne gets you full use of all these elements, with weekday prices starting from $65 for two hours. Chuan Spa at The Langham, Southbank Book in for a treatment at the opulent Chuan Spa in The Langham and you'll also score access to its premium bathing facilities. That includes this stunning saltwater pool and outdoor deck with views across the city. The massage menu heroes traditional Chinese techniques, while multi-treatment options combine things like mineralising salt exfoliations, plumping facials and mud masks. You can even take their online quiz to determine which of their five core elements you resonate most with, which can then be applied to your Chuan treatment. These treatments, the views across the city and the bathing facilities all combine to make this just about the best spa in Melbourne. Sakura Lounge, CBD Sakura Lounge is a Japanese-style day spa (sans onsen) tucked away down Warburton Lane. And the Melbourne spa is a winning option for those looking to go all out, offering an array of all-day packages that won't break the bank. Think: traditional Japanese massages, invigorating foot treatments and hydrating facials rolled out one after the other until you've well and truly found your inner zen. With tea and sweets served throughout, and sushi and champagne as optional inclusions, you'll finish up at Sakura feeling more pampered than ever. Try the 2.5-hour Decadent Detox package (foot treatment, chocolate body treatment and hot-stone massage), which clocks in at a reasonable $200. Alba Thermal Springs & Spa, Fingal If you like the idea of rounding out a wine-filled Mornington Peninsula getaway with some pampering, you'll have to add this luxe spa and thermal springs destination to your coastal itinerary. Fingal's Alba Thermal Springs & Spa is the latest addition to Melbourne's spa scene, opening in September 2022. Expect new and sleek amenities throughout their modern facility. Along with its series of 22 geothermal springs and pools, Alba's offering a premium spa experience, with an impressive menu of treatments and therapies to suit all needs. Drop by for a hydration massage or invigorating facial before or after a soak, or set aside a few hours to indulge in one of the top-to-toe spa packages. Botanica Day Spa, CBD A serene urban oasis within the InterContinental, Botanica Day Spa offers a variety of packages to suit whatever mood your mind and body are in. That includes the tension-melting Botanica De-Stress ($250), featuring a full-body massage, aromatherapy foot massage and heavenly frangipani scalp massage — a trio we could probably all do with every now and then. You can find your groove with a selection of targeted skin and beauty therapies or lose yourself for a few blissful hours with a multi-treatment Melbourne spa journey. What's more, the calm, contemporary surroundings will do just as much for your mood as any muscle-melting hot stone massage. Saltair Spa, Port Melbourne Nestled in the cosy coastal suburb of Port Melbourne is the luxury two-storey day spa Saltair Spa — sure to be a go-to when you're in need of indulging in a little self-care. With its elegant and contemporary design, the two-storey day spa creates an atmosphere of sophistication and calm. The skilled therapists provide tailored treatments using Babor skincare products, and treatments on offer range from massages to facials, skin needling, waxing and much more. Saltair Spa also offers real treat yourself-packages for couples and groups as well as individual day passes and facial programs — ideal if you're in the market for some primo pampering. [caption id="attachment_583596" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Endota Spa[/caption] Endota Spa, Various Locations Endota Spa sites are located all over Australia and New Zealand — with over 20 sites in Melbourne alone. And even though it is a huge chain, it's surprising to see how quality is not lost. Yeah, you won't find pools, saunas and other luxe day spa facilities at any of these spots, but they do a whole host of treatments at fairly affordable prices. Get around some of its facials, massages or more luxe treatments without breaking the bank. Just prepare for the spa therapist to lightly spruik Endota's own wellness products at the end of your treatment (which are actually pretty good, to be honest). Skin Day Spa, St Kilda If you're after a spa destination that's clean, minimalist and ultra-relaxing, Skin Day Spa on Chapel Street has the goods. This little sanctuary offers a hefty menu of spa and beauty treatments (we're talking lash and brow tints, waxing and spray tanning), but when some unwinding and full-body pampering is on the cards, we recommend settling into the one-hour, muscle-soothing deep relaxation massage ($149). There's also LED light therapy to revive and de-stress skin, dedicated pregnancy massages and luxurious facial treatments to suit a whole range of needs. The whole host of premium treatments helps make it one of the best spas in Melbourne. Aurora Spa & Bathhouse, Sorrento A new flagship for the award-winning Aurora Spa Group, Aurora Spa & Bathhouse is set within the Continental Sorrento. This cutting-edge, 500-square-metre bathhouse is a luxe indoor wellness precinct boasting numerous mineral pools and one of the largest saunas in the southern hemisphere. Offering a modern take on traditional bathing practices, Aurora is kitted out with a suite of state-of-the-art facilities and experiences for you to explore. Along with that Nordic-style sauna, you'll find features like an icy plunge pool, an aromatherapy steam room, the 36-degree sky-lit Daydream Pool, a reflexology pool and a suite dedicated to halotherapy — a treatment that involves breathing in salty air. Meanwhile, the adjoining spa is offering treatments ranging from holistic facial therapies and massages, to algae body wraps and botanically-charged scrubs. Natskin, North Ringwood Hidden out in North Ringwood, Natskin might just be one of Melbourne's best kept wellness secrets. This warm and inviting Melbourne spa oasis offers a diverse menu of treatments, from stimulating skin therapies to stress-relieving massages. You can tailor your experience or opt for one of the many multi-treatment packages, that range from a classic massage-facial combo to a couples' retreat offering in one of the spa's duo suites. Really earned some downtime? Book in for the 2.5-hour Rejuvenator package and escape reality with a skin-boosting exfoliation, tailored body wrap, scalp massage, hour-long body massage and fresh juice to rehydrate ($310). Japanese Mountain Retreat, Montrose Escape the hustle with a jaunt out to the Yarra Ranges. Just over an hour away from the city lies Japanese Mountain Retreat in Montrose, a luxurious mineral hot springs haven boasting a series of fully private outdoor mineral pools, meaning you won't have to share your soak with any strangers. There's also an opulent Roman-style bathhouse for those who prefer an indoor dip, and a range of add-on dining experiences available to amp up any visit. You can even stay the night, with a variety of pamper-filled accommodation packages on offer. Top image: Alba Thermal Springs & Spa courtesy of Visit Victoria
In 2017, when Warwick Thornton's Sweet Country first reached cinema screens, the blistering Indigenous Australian western won awards in Venice, Toronto, Luxembourg and our own backyard. It's a sublimely shot and performed work of art that powerfully interrogates Australia's past and draws parallels with the country's present, so that's not surprising — and it joined a long list of acclaimed work by Indigenous Australian filmmakers. Thornton himself is no stranger to the spotlight, with his debut Samson & Delilah winning the Camera d'Or at Cannes in 2009. Sixteen years earlier, Australian artist Tracey Moffatt premiered BeDevil at the prestigious international festival, too, with her feature marking the first ever directed by an Australian Aboriginal woman. From Ivan Sen's Mystery Road and Goldstone to Rachel Perkins' Bran Nue Dae and Jasper Jones, the list of exceptional films by Indigenous Aussie directors goes on. Showcasing the breadth and depth of the nation's filmmaking talent — and, crucially, showcasing Indigenous Australian stories — they demonstrate Aussie cinema at its best. And if you're wondering where to start, here are 25 movies that you can stream right now. Mystery Road, Goldstone, Toomelah and Limbo When Ivan Sen and Aaron Pedersen (High Ground) teamed up for 2013 film Mystery Road, they gave Australia the ongoing gift of outback noir. Sen's writing and directing was so finessed, Pedersen's performance as Indigenous Australian police officer Jay Swan so riveting and the movie's entire concept so engaging that it's no wonder everyone wanted more. So, another followed. Across fellow big-screen effort Goldstone, Swan went to a different remote corner of the country, tried to solve a different case and became immersed in a different set of small-town politics. In both films, the franchise lays bare the state of Australia today, especially when it comes to the nation's treatment of its First Nations peoples. And if you're instantly hooked, it has also spawned its own two-season TV series also starring Pedersen — plus an exceptional prequel series as well. Also worth seeking out: Sen's 2011 drama Toomelah, as set in the titular New South Wales town, with ten-year-old Daniel (Daniel Connors, who is also in Mystery Road) at its centre. And, in 2023, Sen brought Limbo to cinemas, this time starring Simon Baker (Boy Swallows Universe) in a black-and-white Coober Pedy-shot tale about another police officer riding into a small Aussie town, and looking into a case that few people have been all that fussed about until now because the victim isn't white. Mystery Road streams via ABC iView, YouTube Movies and iTunes. Read our full review. Goldstone streams via ABC iView, Netflix, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review, and our interview with Ivan Sen and Aaron Pedersen. Toomelah streams via Netflix. Limbo streams via ABC iView, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review, and our interview with Ivan Sen and Simon Baker. Samson & Delilah, Sweet Country and The New Boy Before Warwick Thornton turned his camera on himself in the personal and reflective TV documentary The Beach — which is the best piece of Australian television that hit screens in 2020 — he directed two of the great Aussie films of the 21st century. And, since then, he's also added another, The first: a love story, a tale of fighting to survive and an unflinching look at teenage life in Australia's red centre, aka 2009's equally heartwrenching and stunning Samson & Delilah. Indeed, it's little wonder the multi-award-winning movie firmly put Thornton on the international map. With Sweet Country, he then returned to the Northern Territory with a film that makes a firm statement, as becomes clear when an Indigenous stockman (Hamilton Morris) kills a white station owner in self-defence. He's forced to flee with his wife Lizzie (Natassia Gorey-Furber), but a local posse is soon on their trail. As Sweet Country decisively confronts this all-too-real situation, it also confronts the country's history of racial prejudice. In 2023's The New Boy, Thornton headed to a remote monastery with a mission for Indigenous children, where Sister Eileen (Cate Blanchett, Tár) is in charge. Her faith is tested when the titular child (newcomer Aswan Reid), a nine-year-old orphan, arrives and has his own experience with religion, which clashes with the mission's take on Christianity. Samson and Delilah streams via SBS On Demand, Stan, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Sweet Country streams via ABC iView, Netflix, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. The New Boy streams via SBS On Demand, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review, and our interview with Warwick Thornton. BeDevil One of Australia's most astonishing films — and yet one of the country's lesser-celebrated gems — Tracey Moffatt's BeDevil took the Queensland visual artist, photographer and filmmaker to Cannes and back. That external validation is all well and good; however it's really just the cherry on top of a potent triptych of haunting tales that demands attention on its own merits. In not only her first and only feature, but the first feature by an Australian Aboriginal woman, Moffatt takes inspiration from ghost stories told to her as a child by both her Aboriginal and Irish relatives. A thoroughly distinctive and immersive horror movie is the end result, and one that smartly and engagingly explores Australian race relations in a disarmingly unique way. Surreal, eerie and simmering with intensity, it'll also show you the Aussie landscape in a whole new light. BeDevil streams via SBS On Demand and Vimeo. Sweet As In Sweet As, the red earth of Western Australia's Pilbara region couldn't be more pivotal. For this coming-of-age drama, Jub Clerc (The Heights) deploys the patch of Aussie soil as a place where teenagers find themselves. The first-time feature director and writer draws upon her own adolescent experiences for her full-length debut, while also crafting the first WA flick that's helmed and penned by an Indigenous female filmmaker. Murra (Shantae Barnes-Cowan, Firebite) is one of Sweet As' adolescents learning to be shutterbugs; with her mother (Ngaire Pigram, also a Firebite alum) grappling with addiction, the 16-year-old's police-officer uncle Ian (Mark Coles Smith, Mystery Road: Origin) enrols her on a trip that she doesn't initially want to take — with youth workers Mitch (Tasma Walton, Scrublands) and Fernando (Carlos Sanson Jr, Bump) as guides and chaperones, plus Kylie (newcomer Mikayla Levy), Elvis (Pedrea Jackson, Robbie Hood) and Sean (fellow first-timer Andrew Wallace) as her new friends. Sweet As is available to stream via SBS On Demand, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. The Drover's Wife The Legend of Molly Johnson A searing and impassioned take on a well-known Australian tale — a First Nations, feminist and anti-colonial version, too — The Drover's Wife The Legend of Molly Johnson is the film that Leah Purcell (High Country) had to make. See: her lengthy history with Henry Lawson's short story of almost the same name. In 2016, she adapted The Drover's Wife for the stage. In 2019, she moved it back to the page. Now, she's brought it to the screen — and the end result is a must-see. Only minutes in, in what marks the actor-turned-director's feature filmmaking debut, it's easy to see why Purcell keeps being drawn to retell this 19th century-set story. In her hands, it's a story of anger, power, prejudice and revenge, and also a portrait of a history that's treated both women and Indigenous Australians abhorrently. And, ever the powerhouse, she writes, helms and stars. The Drover's Wife The Legend of Molly Johnson streams via SBS On Demand, Stan, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. The Moogai First, The Moogai was a SXSW Midnight Shorts Grand Jury Award-winning short. Then, writer/director Jon Bell and his stars Shari Sebbens (The Office) and Meyne Wyatt (Strife) returned to turn this tale of Australia's past haunting its present on- and off-screen into a feature. This is an Aussie horror film born out of the Stolen Generations where the monsters of colonisation, White Australia policies and attitudes since remain inescapable, and where Indigenous children today are also snatched away by a literal monster — and it's a brilliant idea, as well as one that instantly feels as if it needed to have been made decades back. The Moogai begins on the Red River Aborigines Mission in 1969, where two sisters (debutants Aisha Alma May and Precious Ann) attempt to avoid being separated from their family by white men, only for one to be spirited away instead by the picture's namesake. When it jumps to half a century later, the film spends its time with Indigenous couple Sarah (Sebbens) and Fergus (Wyatt) as they prepare for the arrival of their second child, but find themselves dealing with malevolent forces. The Moogai via Netflix and YouTube Movies. Read our interview with Shari Sebbens, Meyne Wyatt and Jon Bell. Bran Nue Dae, Jasper Jones and Radiance When Rachel Perkins brought hit Aussie musical Bran Nue Dae to the big screen in 2010, she turned an already beloved stage musical into one of the country's cinema box office successes. The lively love story takes a road trip through 60s-era Australia, and brings plenty of famous faces along for the ride, with Jessica Mauboy (The Secret Daughter), Ernie Dingo (Squinters) and Deborah Mailman (Total Control) among the cast. Then, in 2017, she adapted another Aussie classic. This time, she set her sights on Craig Silvey's novel Jasper Jones, which examines race relations in a rural Australian town — particularly the treatment of the teenage titular character (Aaron L McGrath, Gold Diggers), who is considered an outcast due to his ethnicity. The book was already intelligent, thoughtful and engaging, and the film proves the same. Similarly worth watching is Perkins' moving 1998 filmmaking debut, Radiance, about three sisters (Wentworth's Rachael Maza, Deborah Mailman again and The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart's Trisha Morton-Thomas) working through their baggage after their mother's death. Bran Nue Dae streams via SBS On Demand, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Jasper Jones streams via YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. Radiance streams via ACMI Cinema 3. The Sapphires, Top End Wedding and Firestarter — The Story of Bangarra An actor and a filmmaker, Wayne Blair boasts an eclectic resume. You've seen him on-screen in Wish You Were Here, The Turning, Emu Runner, Seriously Red and The New Boy, and he both directed and featured in episodes of Redfern Now and the second season of the Mystery Road TV series. Behind the lens, he's also helmed episodes of Lockie Leonard, and directed the 2017 US TV remake of Dirty Dancing. But, Blair is probably best known for The Sapphires and Top End Wedding. They're both big films — and Blair has a definite feel for feel-good material. One follows a group of four Indigenous Australian female singers (Deborah Mailman, Jessica Mauboy, Preppers' Shari Sebbens and The Artful Dodger's Miranda Tapsell) sent to Vietnam to entertain the troops. As for the other, it tracks an Indigenous Australian woman's (Tapsell again) whirlwind quest to stage her perfect nuptials in her hometown of Darwin. Also on Blair's resume: documentary Firestarter — The Story of Bangarra, about Australia's acclaimed Indigenous dance theatre. Co-directed with Nel Minchin (Matilda & Me, Making Muriel), it's a powerful portrait that also steps through the nation's past and focuses on three siblings — Stephen, David and Russell Page — with dreams as big as their talents. The Sapphires streams via Prime Video. Top End Wedding streams via ABC iView, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. Firestarter — The Story of Bangarra streams via ABC iView, SBS On Demand, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. Here I Am Marking not one but two feature debuts — for writer/director Beck Cole (Deadloch) and star Shai Pittman (Around the Block) — Here I Am tells one of the oldest tales there is. It's also a prime of example of taking a familiar narrative and giving it a new voice; viewers have seen this story before in various guises over decades and decades, but never championing Indigenous women. When Karen (Pittman) is released from prison in South Australia, she embarks upon a quest for redemption, including reconnecting with her unimpressed mother Lois (Marcia Langton) and her young daughter Rosie (Quinaiha Scott). Unsurprisingly, that reunion doesn't go smoothly, but both Cole and Pittman are committed to riding the ups and downs. Both hit the big-screen for the first time in a striking fashion, and with a film that proves both intimate and clear-eyed in its multi-generational portrait. Here I Am streams via iTunes and Prime Video. We Are Still Here It begins with stunning animation, shimmering with the rich blue hues of the sea. From there, everything from lush greenery to dusty outback appears in its frames. The past returns to the screen, and a vision of the present finds a place as well — and crossing the ditch between Australia and New Zealand, and venturing further into the South Pacific, is baked into the movie's very concept. That film is We Are Still Here, which makes an enormous statement with its title, responding to 250 years of colonialism. Of course, filmmakers in the region have been surveying this history since the birth of the medium, because the topic is inescapable. Combining eight different takes from ten Indigenous filmmakers (including Here I Am's Beck Cole, A Chance Affair's Tracey Rigney, Carry the Flag's Danielle MacLean and A League of Her Own's Dena Curtis from Australia) instantly makes We Are Still Here stand out, however — and this Pacific First Nations collaboration isn't short on talent, or impact. We Are Still Here streams via SBS On Demand, Netflix, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Spear An Australian dance movie that uses its fancy footwork to step through the plight of the country's First Nations peoples, Spear is a striking cinematic achievement. First-time feature helmer, Bran Nue Dae and The Sapphires choreographer, and Bangarra Dance Theatre artistic director Stephen Page turns the company's performance work of the same name into a big-screen spectacle unlike anything crafted locally, or anywhere else for that matter. Mood, music and movement are pivotal, as a teenage boy wanders from the outback to the city to try to reconcile his ancient culture in a modern world. His journey is just as transporting for those watching as it is for everyone within the movie, as well as anchoring one of the most expressive pieces of Australian film perhaps ever made. Watch his with the aforementioned Firestarter — The Story of Bangarra for a fantastic double feature. Spear streams via ABC iView and Beamafilm. Read our full review. Satellite Boy On paper, it might seem easy to spot exactly why Satellite Boy proves so charming. Writer/director Catriona McKenzie smartly enlisted the now-late David Gulpilil (Storm Boy) as Indigenous elder Jagamarra, one of ten-year-old Pete's (first-timer Cameron Wallaby) guardians and the person teaching him about life on the land. It's a stroke of casting genius, clearly — and crucial to the film. That said, this dreamlike 2012 movie has several impressive casting touches as it traverses the Western Australian landscape, including unearthing young Wallaby as its lead and similarly finding fellow debutant Joseph Pedley to play Pete's pal Kalmain. McKenzie's feature also boasts a delightful narrative, which sees the two boys take to the bush en route to the city to save the home that Pete adores: a rundown drive-in cinema that this big-dreaming kid simply wants to get back into action. Satellite Boy streams via iTunes and Prime Video. Buckskin and Finke: There and Back The past few years have been memorable for Dylan River. The Alice Springs filmmaker directed delightful SBS web series Robbie Hood, was the cinematographer on rousing Adam Goodes documentary The Australian Dream, worked as the second unit director on the aforementioned Sweet Country, lensed The Beach (with the latter two both helmed by his father, Warwick Thornton), co-directed Mystery Road: Origin and was behind the wonderful Thou Shalt Not Steal. He also wrote, directed and shot two impressive documentaries of his own: Buckskin and Finke: There and Back. The first tells the tale of Jack Buckskin, Australia's only teacher of the near-extinct Kaurna language, while the second covers the rough, tough, two-day off-terrain trek that gives the doco its name. Both prove insightful, and showcase the astute skills of one of Australia's emerging filmmaking talents. Buckskin streams via SBS On Demand and Vimeo. Finke: There and Back streams via SBS On Demand, Netflix, DocPlay, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. It's also one of our ten best movies of 2019 that hardly anyone saw. Servant or Slave and Looky Looky Here Comes Cooky Watching a documentary directed by Steven McGregor involves exploring Australia's complicated history. There's much for the director of Black Comedy and co-writer of Mystery Road, Redfern Now and Sweet Country to cover, of course. In 2016's Servant or Slave, he turned his attention not only to the nation's Stolen Generation, but to the Indigenous girls who were forced to work as domestic servants. The powerful film features five women recalling their experiences — and it's impossible not to be moved and horrified by their accounts. With 2020's Looky Looky Here Comes Cooky, the filmmaker takes a more irreverent approach to Australia's past, while still remaining just as probing. The charismatic Steven Oliver leads the show on-screen, as this clever and engaging movie revisits the story of Captain Cook from a First Nations perspective, including via songlines with the assistance of Indigenous performers. Servant or Slave streams via SBS On Demand, DocPlay, Brollie, Prime Video, YouTube Movies and iTunes. Looky Looky Here Comes Cooky streams via SBS On Demand.
The Australian Open is a marathon, not a sprint. Anyone who's wandered through Melbourne Park on a January afternoon, sun blazing, sunscreen melting, knows that by the time the night sessions roll around, you can easily be running on fumes. Whether it's your first time at the tournament or you're trying to perfect your route, here's how to do the Australian Open like a pro. Preparation Is Key The Australian Open blends the tennis tournament with fashion activations, street-style snaps, and many chill-out zones to relax with friends. While you may be tempted to don your most stylish outfit, preparation and comfort are key to feeling fresh enough to witness tennis history. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Australian Open (@australianopen) Wear comfortable shoes that can help you get from one end of the grounds to the other. Dress in breathable linens or cottons, and don't forget to pack your sunscreen and hat (sunscreen is also available to the public around the venue). Packing a light overshirt in case you suddenly find your courtside seat directly in the sun's glow is also an expert tip. If you have tickets for afternoon and evening games, you'll want to feel as comfortable as possible, so preparing your outfit and bag beforehand will ensure you're not caught out (and sun-stroked) by the final late-night game. The Midday Reset If you do have an AO day out planned, look for pop-ups that can help you to reset. There are loads around the grounds that specialise in makeup touchups, fashion outlets (if you need a change of shirt), and grooming booths to keep you feeling fresh. On Saturday, January 24, the OneBlade Barbershop will set up at the Southbank Spillway for walk-ins, with two barbers on hand to provide a free trim, edge, or close facial hair shave using the Philips OneBlade. Looking sharp is Philips' shout this Australian Open. Choose hairstyle inspiration from the icons board featuring sporting stars, including Nick Kyrgios and the Honeybadger. You don't need to make a booking in between matches. Just rock up, scan the QR code and secure your spot from 9am–4pm. You can also spin the prize wheel to score giveaways like the Philips Nose Trimmer NT1000, the Philips OneBlade Original Blade, exclusive merch, mini fans and more. A DJ will be playing next to the Philips barbershop throughout the event as well to keep the AO energy high. The pop-up is designed to keep you feeling fresh and on-trend, all while soaking up the stylish atmosphere of the Australian Open. Pace Your Rally Between the AO's heat and party-like energy, it's easy to forget to pace yourself. Whilst sipping your Aperol Spritzes and sampling the many food stalls, don't forget to drink water. It'll be hard to stay awake for the final showdown at 11pm if you're dehydrated. Looking for some food and beverage recommendations to keep the energy up? Several crowd favourites are back in 2026, including the famous Peach Melbourne peach and vanilla soft serve. The Grey Goose Lemon Ace cocktail also returns, available freshly mixed or ready-to-drink from the revamped Courtside Bar. You can sip on Canadian Clubs in their lounge area or check out the much-loved AO Frappe. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hector's Deli (@hectors_deli) Beyond the Courtside Bar, Melbourne Park transforms into a food festival with the likes of Japanese-inspired favourite Suupaa serving konbini classics like onigiri, katsu sandos, noodle bowls and its cult Suupaachiki fried chicken. Over in Garden Square, Melbourne institutions take centre stage, with Hector's Deli making its AO debut and Entrecôte serving French-inspired classics. By staying hydrated, taking a moment to reset at the activations, and snacking your way around the tournament, you can keep cool and soak up Melbourne at its best. Good luck. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Concrete Playground Melbourne (@concreteplaygroundmelbourne) Image credit: Supplied
Remember UNO — it's lotsa fun, it's number one? Well, this hugely popular card game that never seems to go out of vogue is levelling things up with a playful activation that's sweeping across the country. Presented in collaboration with hospo jugganauts Australian Venue Co., now your chance to get social with your pals in a much-loved pub near you. Fresh from a Vegas Residency and activations across the UK, the UNO Social Club has kicked off in Brisbane at Riverland. Running until Thursday, February 5, visitors will encounter a UNO-themed extravaganza by the waterfront, combining special gameplay nights, long-weekend celebrations, themed cocktails, free UNO decks and heaps more. "UNO has been part of Australian homes for generations and that familiarity is what makes this experience special," says Paul Faulkner, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of Mattel Asia Pacific. "Our Social Clubs will give people a fun, welcoming place to meet up, enjoy the atmosphere of a well-loved pub and share a game that brings people together — we can't wait to see how Aussie fans embrace the unique experience." While Brisbane is the first stop on this national tour, you'll soon be invited to shout UNO or pull off the reverse of the century in Melbourne at Hotel Esplanade or Sydney at Bungalow8. Bringing a little friendly competition to your summer sessions, get ready to embrace the nostalgia at UNO Social Club. Just make sure you and your mates agree on the rules before the game gets started. "UNO Social Clubs have been thriving across the United States, from the Las Vegas launch to pop- ups in New York, Chicago and UK – we have seen how strongly people connect with the UNO experience and are thrilled to kick off the Australian tour at Brisbane's Riverland," says Faulkner. UNO Social Club is happening now at Riverland in Brisbane, with the Hotel Esplanade in Melbourne and Bungalow8 in Sydney soon to follow. Head to the website for more information.
When Yakamoz, a Mediterranean restaurant in Brunswick East, offered a double cheeseburger as a lunch special one random Sunday, the owner and chef could not have anticipated what would come next. The burger took on a life of its own, evolving into a separate business, attracting viral fame, and becoming one of 2025's most sought-after food items. Charrd now sells hundreds (and hundreds, and hundreds) of burgers each day. It was also just crowned as the 14th best burger in the world. Owner Ogulcan 'OJ' Atay and head chef Cagri Ergin of Yakamoz have worked tirelessly for the last few years to build up their much-loved restaurant on Lygon Street. Yakamoz is Mediterranean food without boundaries or limitations. The restaurant's dishes are intended to transcend national borders and focus on ingredients found across the Mediterranean. Cold and hot meze spans from hummus with green harissa, to muhamarra with feta and almonds, Turkish chicken wings, to haloumi with brown butter, honey and walnuts, and charcoal lamb and chicken shish with zhough. There's woodfired rigatoni puttanesca, charcoal lamb cutlets and market fish with beurre blanc, but the true star of the show is the woodfired pide. It's hard to do justice to the charry goodness of the pide breads with words alone. Topped with the likes of spiced beef with tomato and onion, three cheeses with grape molasses and mushrooms with caramelised onions, add an egg and experience smoky, salty, creamy goodness. However, from the moment the double cheeseburger first appeared, it became one of the most sought-after items at Yakamoz, with customers disappointed they could only get their hands on it on Sundays. So OJ and Cagri took matters into their own hands and opened Charrd, a tiny take-out window at the back of Yakamoz, down St Phillip Street, dedicated to the famous burger. And they don't muck around at Charrd. There are just two burgers on the menu, available in single or double, and there are no additions. There are also no seats and no vegetarian options available (for now). But has that deterred hordes of Melburnians lining up for unthinkable amounts of time to try one? Also no. We're not sure if it's the charcoal-grilled patties, the chilli jam, or perhaps the truffle mayo, but there is something buzzy about these burgers that has created a hype that we haven't seen in some time. So go on, if you haven't yet, join the queue. Images: Supplied.
It's no wonder Uluwatu translates to "rock at the end of the land", with its instantly recognisable cliffscapes and edge-of-the-earth drama. For the wellness-inclined traveller prioritising panoramic views and scenic natural landmarks, Uluwatu could be the perfect Balinese hiatus. Situated on the southwestern tip of Bali (the Bukit Peninsula), this beach-abound surfer's paradise has reached icon status. South of the airport, Uluwatu exudes laidback, coastal, rugged energy, and self-care offerings in spades. Here, we walk you through all the must-stay accommodation spots to book, the places to move your body, and some extracurricular activities to help recalibrate a busy mind. If you're ready to embark on a holistically nourishing journey, we've done the groundwork for you — all that's left to do is take the plunge. WHERE TO STAY Alila Villas Uluwatu Architectural majesty, considered wellness offerings and breathtaking ocean vistas are the hallmarks of Alila Villas. A reverent oasis, Alila spans private pool villas that range from 300 sqm to 3,000 sqm. Perched dramatically on limestone cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean, this luxe location has proximity to famed surf spots and the Uluwatu Temple. Dreamt up by award-winning sustainable architects WOHA, polished interiors meld modern style with traces of Balinese storytelling. Alila's renowned open-concept design brings the natural world in, to show off endless blue. Surrender yourself to culinary grandiosity with various in-house dining options, such as The Warung, Cire and Sunset Cabana Bar. Panoramic views with your wholesome traditional Balinese plates? That's the norm here. Elegant health-based offerings define Alila, with 'A Day of Pure Wellness' preplanned for you on their service menu. This 10-12-hour itinerary is a specialty of the utopic destination. Begin with a sunrise private yoga session followed by a flavourful breakfast overlooking the ocean, followed by a series of deeply therapeutic rituals, through to a nourishing lunch for restoration of inner balance. Lastly, succumb to soundhealing, chakra work and reflexology designed to instil harmony within. Umana Bali A nod to Bali's heritage and a stride toward its future, Umana's name comes from 'Uma': the word for ancient Balinese rice paddies. Rooted in a deep respect for human connection, Umana has a commitment to impression-making, people-first stays. Nestled 70 meters upon the staggering limestone cliffs of Uluwatu, Umana Bali is located a short 35- minute journey from Ngurah Rai International Airport Enveloped by the verdant landscape on the southern tip of Bali, Umana features 72 villas (all complete with private pools). Opulence is embodied here, as well as limitless activities to embark on: the Uluwatu Temple, renowned surfing locations and tranquil beaches. A multitude of food and beverage offerings are proudly served at Umana, including Commune Restaurant (all-day dining), Oliverra (speciality restaurant), Pad Pool Bar, Mer Lounge and Uma Beach House. From sunrise to moonlight, there is something to entice every traveller. And if you're craving a day of uninterrupted seclusion, imagine waking to a gourmet in-villa floating breakfast. Laden with fresh tropical fruits and nourishing fare, this special service is not just a meal, but an exalted initiation into a day of holidaying well. If you aren't already allured, may we point you in the direction of the innovative wellness sanctuary at Umana. In the contemporary spa, embrace Bali's cultural traditions with a modern twist. There is a vast spectrum of daily activities on offer, from sound healing and soul blessing ceremonies, to consultations with a local spiritual leader for profound insights into past lives. For movement, turn to the 24-hour Duplex Fitness Center, indoor yoga pavilion, steam room, sauna, cold and hot tubs, as well as a spa pool. The Asa Maia This luxury wellness retreat transforms any holiday into a rewarding self-care journey. Poised within a private enclave in Uluwatu, The Asa Maia curates bespoke rituals, mindful service and eco-conscious design. Merely a stroll from Bali's iconic beaches and surf swells, this central accommodation offsets the vibrancy of Uluwatu with intentional tranquility. Atmospheric bliss is expected as you enter this 10-suite-only destination, built from restored 100-year-old Javanese Gladaks. The exclusivity of The Asa Maia makes it an idyllic honeymoon destination, or a true hideaway for the solo traveller seeking peaceful dwellings. Here, the idea is deliberate disconnection for restorative reconnection. The dining repertoire includes an on-site restaurant and bar boasting fully organic, seed-oil-free, vegan, vegetarian and pescatarian cuisine offerings. Rest assured, The Asa Maia holds nourishment as the highest priority, reflected through sustainable ingredients and treasured local recipes. With wellness at its very core, The Asa Maia has programmed an award-winning lineup of therapies including massage, indulgent facials, full-body gua sha detoxification and more. Delight at a Himalayan salt and infrared sauna, and subterranean hot and cold pools adjacent to an inviting outdoor fire pit zone. Six Senses Uluwatu If looking out from an infinity pool onto expansive blue sounds like a dreamscape worth pursuing, consider Six Senses Uluwatu for your next Balinese sojourn. This high-end choice balances privacy, ease of access (being 35 minutes from Denpasar airport) and a paradisiacal position on Bali's rugged coastline. Respecting the footprint of cultural design, every space here is enriched by Indonesian artifacts, heritage details and warmth, immersing guests in the spirit of Indonesia. The resort's architecture marries minimalist design with tropical influences and local materials. Embrace uninterrupted views, terraces and quiet pockets of garden at this wellness mecca. With generous food offerings, guests might rarely contemplate leaving the vicinity. Rocka celebrates farm-to-table dining and international culinary techniques, while Watu Steakhouse showcases premium steak and fusion dishes in a refined setting. Crudo is fittingly flaunting sushi and ceviche, and the Cliff Bar has Mediterranean-esque bites with drawcard scenery. The Six Senses Spa is top-tier, with Balinese-inspired treatments in spades. There are holistic wellness programs to detox, improve sleep quality and uplift the spirit, often personalised with smart health screening tech. The standout facilities include a relaxation area, sauna and steam rooms, a dedicated yoga pavilion and a fitness haven set within verdant gardens. Guests can partake in daily yoga and meditation or signature rituals like Balinese massage and scrubs for an all-bases-covered approach to mind and body renewal. WHERE TO TRAIN Bambu Fitness Touted as one of Uluwatu's most established fitness destinations, Bambu Fitness is relished by surf enthusiasts, athletes and disciplined movers. It's all about functional training and works towards serious results, minus the intimidation. Openair spaces are spliced by raw timber, concrete and tropical greenery. Move freely in capacious training zones and lock in for purposeful sessions that prioritise community. This is a wellness playground for the nomad needing an invigorating gym moment between bouts of relaxation. Bambu's program fixates on strength, conditioning and injury prevention, offering a drop-in class model suited to busy travellers wanting ease in their Balinese itineraries. Whether you're lifting or lightly jogging, every breath here mixes with ocean air streaming through, making it as visually compelling as it is functional. Era Pilates The first on-demand reformer pilates studio has arrived right in the heart of Bingin. At Era Pilates, it doesn't matter what time your flight lands or takes off, because this self-led studio utilises screens above each reformer bed for autonomous classes (that retain expertly curated lesson plans). You can plug in and plug out whenever is most convenient, regardless of jetlag or timetables. This boutique setting is very bright and minimalist, showcasing timber floors and copious light. Every inch of Era feels primed for your next travel TikTok or Instagram inclusion, while retaining a sense of stabilising calm. Reformer Pilates is the bread and butter offering, with a library of instructor‑led video sessions you can choose from rather than set group times. Whether you're leaning into strength, flexibility or tone, each session has been constructed by the pros to maximise movement quality (and burn). 360 Move At 360 Move, holistic training, community and recovery is housed under one bold roof. A true fitness hub, this tight-knit community advocates for growth and connection, as well as performance for travellers who need more than a treadmill. If you're after motivation and a bustling environment full of like-minded individuals, 360 Move is the antidote to mainstream gyms. A visually engaging interior combines indoor and open-air zones with dedicated areas for strength, cardio and speciality classes. Movement is medicine in this gym. 360 Move's schedule is sprinkled with Hot Pilates, HIIT, functional conditioning, 'Stronger' strength sessions and gym access with all the best equipment and free weights. La Tribu A pillar of Uluwatu's yogi community, this renowned yoga studio emphasises consistency, presence and accessibility. All levels of expertise are welcomed with open arms — all that's required is a determined mind and positive energy. With the philosophy of "looking at life with the eyes of a child", La Tribu is about finding courage and passion in the everyday. Leaping into the unknown with a zest for play is the idea. The space is reflective of this idea, with abundant natural textures and warm finishes that feel like an extension of the wild outdoors. Classes feature functional strength, breathwork, yoga and mobility sessions. There is a deep appreciation for body awareness here, with balance training and soft flows ever available. It's an ideal pitstop for travellers looking to temper form with fluidity for a gentle reset. There's also surf‑specific conditioning and personalised coaching available — making it ideal for finessing your skills out of the water. A holistic approach is heralded at La Tribu, with a slew of recovery sessions and physiotherapy options available via partner facilities. After all, regeneration is just as important as exertion. WHAT TO DO The Istana In sync with the clifftop oases we've already covered, The Istana is an elevated (literally and figuratively) movement retreat built for inner healing and multifaceted slow days in Uluwatu. Yoga decks overlook the vast ocean, framed by sculptural architecture and open sky. This context alone will be sure to quieten the busy traveller's perspective before their return to routine. Movement sessions at The Istana can be matched with chef-made, wellness-driven meals utilising the creme de la creme of local seasonal produce. On the never-ending program, enrol in sound healing workshop experiences at 'The Temple of Sound', or 9D Breathwork Down Regulation experiences. There's even Sound Dome Mantra Healing, Karmic Cleanse workshops and so much more, making The Itsana a wellspring of meditative modalities. Pura Luhur Uluwatu & Cliff Path Ritual Walk Perched atop the Bukit Peninsula, Pura Luhur is one of Uluwatu's most iconic sea temples. Beyond sightseeing, travellers can plan a meditative walk along the cliffside paths for an itinerary inclusion that fuses movement with meaning. The temple sits dramatically above the Indian Ocean, embellished with limestone cliffs, frangipani trees and dreamlike vistas. A bucket list location for pensive, low-impact hours spent reflecting, this path invites quiet reflection to the score of crashing waves. Time your visit for sunset to transform the journey into a contemplative ceremony, with guided experiences on offer to enrich your understanding and appreciation of this sacred Balinese jewel. BaliSurf.Pro Surf Lessons Whether you're an avid wave-chaser or total amateur, BaliSurf.Pro has a diverse array of expertly guided surfing lessons across the Bukit Peninsula. For an unconventional wellness adventure, travellers can connect through active movement and natural wonders, while potentially giving something entirely new a brazen go. Lessons take place against Bali's beloved coastal landscape, with white-sand beaches and wide horizons. Meeting points are varied, but typically include Dreamland. Different spots are allocated to best suit ability, the changing tidal conditions, and the individual traveller's goals. BaliSurf.Pro hosts private, semi-private and group surf sessions, all including board hire, rash vest and sun protection to ensure a smooth and confidence-building experience. The surf in Bali isn't purely about the waves — it's an invitation to focus on rhythm, breath and presence, while tapping back into nature's bounties to think about something greater than oneself. Rest assured, receptive instructors are on hand to guide you through the fundamentals while helping you stay grounded and exhilarated by the sea. For more information to help with planning your next trip to Bali, visit Bali Tourism Board here. By Genevieve Phelan Image Credits: Supplied
To celebrate the new season of Bridgerton, Melbourne is cordially invited to the Bridgerton Masquerade Parlour. On Saturday, January 31 and Sunday, February 1, members of the Melbourne ton are invited to step into Regency-era opulence. You'll explore a luxurious, Bridgerton-inspired space filled with four guided pampering stations to help you perfect your masquerade ball look. Find your perfect jewellery and makeup colours with a professional colour analysis, be fitted for regency-inspired vintage gloves, and adorn your hair with Bridgerton-worthy accessories. Next, head to the mask maker, who will help you discover your ultimate Bridgerton archetype. Are you the Muse, the Bohemian or the Intellectual? Pose for photos throughout the parlour and even take home your own souvenir by capturing a fairytale portrait in the Masquerade Ballroom set. Rub shoulders with fellow ton people and promenade in style. The Bridgerton Masquerade Parlour is located in the heart of the city at 362 Little Collins Street. Entry is free and on a first-come, first-served basis, so be sure to head down early. It's the perfect way to get excited about the brand new season of Bridgerton, after Part 1 arrived on our screens on Thursday, January 29, and will be followed by Part 2 on Thursday, February 26. This season sees rising Australian star Yerin Ha take the lead as Sophie Baek, a masked Lady in Silver who captures the attention of Benedict Bridgerton (Luke Thompson). As always, scandal, romance, and exquisite fashion abound. Whether you're a die-hard member of the ton or just in it for the drama (and the photo ops), the Bridgerton Masquerade Parlour is perfect for anyone craving a taste of Regency glamour in Melbourne's CBD. Watch Bridgerton Season 4, only on Netflix. Image Credit: Supplied
Melbourne's music scene spreads far and wide, but at least for those north of the river, Brunswick is the epicentre of all things loud and lyrical. Returning for its 38th edition, the festival — and the neighbourhood — looks more than a little different than when this musical showcase began. Nowadays, historic venues like The Retreat, Hotel Railway, and the Brunswick Mechanics Institute dovetail with relative newcomers like Waxflower and Joey Smalls, offering options for music-obsessed fans of all stripes. But from Sunday, March 1–Sunday, March 8, the community new and old comes together for the year's biggest celebration of local tunes. Kicking off with the Sydney Road Street Party, this tone-setting experience transforms the suburb's main drag with four stages. Running from 12–6pm, expect South African jazz, Turkish classical and youth Pasifika harmonies, alongside roving performances, pop-up acoustic sets and show-stopping snacks every step of the way. All told, over 100 artists will take to stages both on the street and within local venues, with just a couple of highlights to check out including Quality Used Cars, The Meanies and Public House. Between sets, you'll find 160 vendors showcasing Brunswick's most diverse flavours, as well as an eclectic mix of fashion, homewares and accessories stalls. Seeking a little quiet? Counihan Gallery and the Mechanics Institute are hosting family-friendly performances and cultural storytelling. Yet the Sydney Road Street Party is just the beginning for the Brunswick Music Festival. Over the next seven days, a MzRizk-curated program will span incredible sights and sounds. Paying respect to the suburb's contribution to local live music, catch folk tradition and electronic experimentation at Brunswick Ballroom, the worldly disco selections of François K and a close-out Sunday session beneath the trees at Gilpin Park, with loads more to groove to. Images: Simon Fazio.
A fairy theme with rock'n'roll attitude is the best way to describe Arcane Fairies. This late-night bar on Lonsdale Street promises to deliver a night you won't forget too soon. From the giant fairy folk suspended from the ceiling to medieval-inspired decor and a menu that's centred on indulgence, Arcane Fairies proves itself as not just another cocktail bar quite quickly. Drinks — referred to as elixirs — follow the fantasy theme. Vexa's Trick mixes gin, cucumber and black cherry bitters, Sylph's Golden Glow sees bourbon and triple sec dance with salted caramel, and Aura's Blush is the ultimate blend of sweet, tart and icy thanks to Bacardi being blitzed with coconut and frozen strawberries. It seems that fairies like good food. And the snacks menu runs the gamut from twice-cooked fried chicken, a lobster doughnut and a Birria-inspired corn dog to Sichuan braised pork ragu, smash burgers and "fairy crack fries". If you're wondering where this perfectly weird range of eats comes from, it's the mind of celebrity chef Jake Warhurst at work. He served as a personal chef to Drake and Virgin CEO Richard Branson at times. We've saved the best part until last – drinks are delivered from bar to table via a zipline, which stretches across the venue's ceiling.
In a city saturated with as many outstanding bars and restaurants as Melbourne, sometimes you have to do something a little different to stand out. When Moondrop opened in December 2025, it brought a new taste and energy to the Melbourne drinking and dining scene as a Chinese-inspired cocktail bar. The hotspot celebrates traditional flavours reimagined in playful new ways, from a crew with impeccable hospo history. Moondrop is the latest venture from the team behind Carlton North's beloved Sleepy's Cafe & Wine Bar, self-described as "your local caffeine dealer, funky wine sommelier, comfort food hotspot and third place." Following the success of Sleepy's, Moondrop "started as a joke", but quickly became serious when all the pieces seemed to land in just the right place, at just the right time. It's all about 'location, location, location', isn't it? So when the boys — Steve Chan, Jesse Kourmouzis and Jacob Muoio — were sent a copy of the lease for the formerly loved and sorely missed, The Everleigh, they couldn't resist popping in just to take a look. Things snowballed, and before they knew it, they had signed the lease. The way it all came together, says Jesse, "cemented that our ethos, hospitality and work ethic are pretty much identical…the stars aligned and everything fell into place." The low-lit drinking den harks back to the old-world glamour of 1920s Shanghai, and pays homage to Chan's family history. Ascending into Moondrop's foyer, guests will be greeted with touches of Chan's Chinese heritage on all fronts: custom-made Mahjong tables serve as furniture, curated Chinese knick-knacks decorate the space with fascinating detail, and Chinese hip hop and R'n'B play through the speakers. "Working with our brilliant Australian-Asian design teams, Studio Jomi and Local Optima, no detail has been overlooked. The moon rabbit emblem, steeped in Chinese folklore, is interwoven into the fabric of the venue — from our uniform pins and ice stamps, to the embossed leather-bound menus. Everyone on the team shares the same vision: to create a welcoming space that's authentic, immersive and uniquely Moondrop." Chan says, "I started in this industry because I love sharing experiences, and hospitality has always been such a beautiful facilitator of this. Over the years, I've really been leaning into my Chinese identity, using food and drink as a way to connect with my culture and share it with others…I want people to remember the hospitable part of hospitality — hosting and taking care of people. While Moondrop is an elevated offering, we welcome everybody and want to be approachable, because everyone deserves to have an elevated experience." Moondrop is set to redefine the flavour palette of cocktail menus in Melbourne, with a focus on the traditional flavours of the east. Jesse Kourmouzis, the Head of Beverage (who previously managed Above Board), has curated an intriguing menu of 26 cocktails, featuring ten seasonal variations that showcase Chinese ingredients and lesser-known Chinese spirits. Jesse says, "We're going out on a limb. We noticed that a lot of venues are playing it safe, and we wanted to step out of our comfort zone. We really wanted to create a venue that takes you away from the day-to-day, that feels like an experience." It's hard not to crack a smile when perusing the drinks list, with cocktails including the Hakuna Martini, the 5-Spice Girls and Steve's own namesake drink, the Chanhattan. Signature drinks include a wild assortment of ingredients and flavours from homemade hot sauce and radish to MSG brine and lapsang souchong tea-infused vermouth. The Me & Ube riffs on bubble milk tea with clarified oat milk punch, tapioca pearls, pineapple juice, Licor 43 and three varieties of rum, whereas the Honey-Bun mixes Nodo Repo Tequila, yuzushu, Cointreau, lemon, Jacob's hot honey and mint. While you might need to consult a glossary to decide what to order, each drink is marked with a flavour profile stamp, ranging from sweet to sour to bitter to savoury to dry, to help you work out what might suit your tastebuds. We've even heard whispers of a Weet-Bix milk punch that may appear on the menu in the future, once the summer heat passes, which is a shining example of how Moondrop intends to seamlessly blend a touch of Australiana into the mix. While the drinks list might be the main character, Jacob Muoio's menu of Chinese-Australian bar snacks, including a rotating dumpling menu, plays an excellent supporting role. Pick at a bag of prawn crackers, sichuan pepper-marinated olives, or anchovies with bread, butter and sweet and sour onions. You might find pork and chrysanthemum or prawn and ginger dumplings, and barbecue mushroom baos, sitting alongside an impressive selection of cheeses, salumi and caviar (served with scallion pikelets). And don't miss the signature snowskin mooncake filled with vanilla and red bean ice cream. At its core, Moondrop is a venture with the hospo industry at its heart. Jesse says, "We're giving it everything we have…and we really want to celebrate the industry. We want to host hospitality sessions, have lots of friends and people to enjoy the old Everleigh building, but in a new, bright, fresh and modern way." Whether it's friends' weddings, industry-led events, discussion panels, cocktail or wine tastings, "wacky events" or Mahjong nights, Chan says, "We just want to celebrate and have a good ol' time, with people old, new and everything in the middle". For the month of February, Moondrop is celebrating the Chinese New Year with a host of festive specials. Moondrop will gift the first 17 people at the venue each day in February with a lucky red envelope. Each envelope will gift the recipient a lucky prize ranging from complimentary cocktails to free dumplings. On Tuesday, February 17, Moondrop Lion Dancers will put on a special performance from 8.30pm to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits. While enjoying the show, sip your way through a special cocktail menu devised by Jesse Kourmousiz, which plays with ingredients such as MSG, imported Chinese teas, and Baijiu. February will also see the launch of Moondrop's Mahjong Nights, beginning on Sunday, February 28. Try your luck with the traditional tile game, with a $20 buy-in per person and the winner of each table receiving an $80 bar tab. Sounds like a pretty good deal to us! Images: Mike Lam.
First, RuPaul's Drag Race Down Under sashayed its way Down Under. Now, the series that's been known as Drag Race Down Under since RuPaul handed over hosting duties to Michelle Visage for season four is sharing its talents with the world. Or, to be more accurate, Drag Race Down Under vs The World is welcoming queens from around the globe to compete against Drag Race Down Under favourites. Stan has announced that Drag Race Down Under vs The World is on its way — although there's no exact release date as yet. The streaming platform has also revealed that Visage, who has been involved in the Drag Race world as a judge since the third season of the OG RuPaul's Drag Race, is hosting. PLus, Rhys Nicholson is back on the judging panel, joined by season four's winner Lazy Susan. Whenever it hits, there'll be eight hour-long episodes of Drag Race Down Under vs The World, all pitting Down Under competitors from the four seasons so far of Drag Race Down Under against contenders from beyond Australia and New Zealand's shores. Viewers will also be tuning in for a show that's following in the footsteps of other Drag Race spinoffs such as UK vs The World and Canada vs The World. The drag queens at the centre of the series haven't yet been announced, either, and neither has the lineup of guest judges. "After four incredible seasons of Drag Race Down Under, we're delighted to bring back our Aussie drag fan-favourites and unleash them onto the world stage," said Michael Healy, Nine Entertainment's Executive Director, Entertainment Content Commissioning. "With a formidable and familiar panel, and the reigning queen Lazy Susan joining the esteemed judges' desk, Drag Race Down Under vs The World will showcase the extraordinary talent we have in Australia and give local audiences a front-row seat to watch our queens shine globally." Drag Race initially made the leap Down Under in 2021 — and if you've been watching since, it's time to start guessing which past queens will be making a comeback for Drag Race Down Under vs The World. Of course, there's no trailer yet for Drag Race Down Under vs The World, but check out clips from past seasons of Drag Race Down Under below: Drag Race Down Under vs The World doesn't yet have a release date, but will stream via Stan and TVNZ when it returns — we'll update you with an exact date when one is announced.
Now entering its 45th year, St Kilda Festival is more than just a great chance to see the best homegrown music talent. It's a veritable local tradition that keeps hundreds of thousands of people coming back year after year. Returning once more to the St Kilda foreshore from Saturday, February 14–Sunday, February 15, the 2026 edition is as stacked as you'd expect. Bringing together a host of major acts and emerging names, this year's festival is celebrating a significant milestone — the 20th instalment of First Peoples' First. Held over two stages, this jam-packed event features an exceptional lineup of First Nations artists throughout Saturday, with the likes of ARIA Awards winner Barkaa, Noongar electropop artist Boox Kid and Bunhungura indie band Drifting Clouds getting the huge crowd moving. The following day, it's time for Big Festival Sunday. Expect another massive crowd to descend on the foreshore, immersing themselves in live music, dance performances, workshops, carnival rides and more. On the main stage, headliners include multi-ARIA Award winner Jessica Mauboy, legendary pub rockers Mental As Anything and dancefloor favourites, Sneaky Sound System, with loads more up-and-coming singer-songwriters and bands to discover. Besides the big-name acts, have a boogie over at the New Music Competition. With the event's alumni including Baker Boy, Missy Higgins and Client Liaison, the breakout artists taking to the stage compete for a $5,000 cash prize and a coveted spot on the 2027 St Kilda Festival lineup. Plus, the JBL Be Heard Busking Series will feature 18 hand-picked musicians who'll give it their all at three busking stations. If you're keen to get involved, limited slots are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Listen up and mark your calendars: Melbourne Food & Wine Festival has announced a stellar lineup of over 200 events and experiences for the 2026 program, which will run from Friday, March 20 to Sunday, March 29. The ten-day program includes events across regional Victoria, features famous international chefs through a Global Dining Series, and, as always, showcases Victorian restaurants, chefs, growers and makers. One of the big-ticket items announced for this year is the CAKE PICNIC, a global sensation hailing from San Francisco, which makes its southern hemisphere debut as part of the 2026 program. The proposition is simple: bring a cake, and eat a lot of cake. Fouder, Elisa Sunga, says, "I am so excited to bring CAKE PICNIC to Melbourne. I am looking forward to seeing what flavours and styles Australia's bakers bring to the table. I've heard only great things about Melbourne's food scene, so my excitement is at a high." The CAKE PICNIC will be held at Kings Domain on Saturday, March 21, however, you'll need to get in quick. The last San Francisco event sold out its 2000 tickets in under a minute. Another headline event, which has been running since 1993, is the annual World's Longest Lunch, set to capitalise on the wave of reinvigorated Greek dining that has swept across Melbourne over the last few years. The three-course meal, offered to 1600 guests, will be served by author Ella Mittas, Alex Xinis from Yarraville sensation Tzaki, and the crew from CBD hotspot Kafeneion. The Greek-themed lunch will be held at Kings Domain on Friday, March 20. "Here, try this. A Greek-themed World's Longest Lunch! The global sensation that is CAKE PICNIC! And everyone's favourite author and baker Helen Goh. There is so much to be excited by in the 2026 Melbourne Food & Wine Festival," says Anthea Loucas Bosha, CEO of Food + Drink Victoria. "I'm thrilled that the…program features an incredible Special Events program with 170 events across Melbourne, alongside our Regional Special Events program…bringing 26 events to towns and regions across Victoria. [The] Global Dining Series, presented by Polestar, is back, with chefs from all corners of the globe heading to Melbourne to collaborate with our best restaurants. And our final weekend has us back at Fed Square, where Melbourne's best bakers and patissiers will be on show at our fourth and supersized Baker's Dozen, presented by McKenzie's. For 10 days in March, there will be nowhere better to eat and drink in the world. I'm looking forward to sharing a slice of cake with you in March". The Global Dining Series will showcase an incredible array of international talent, including a collaboration between Bridges, one of New York's most renowned restaurants, and Melbourne's beloved Cutler, an Italian social media star serving street fare at Sunhands, and the chef behind the viral Dubai chocolate popping up at Fable. "We've got guests making their way to Melbourne from Mexico City, Manila, Chiang Rai, Valetta, London, New York City, Singapore, Paris and beyond cooking food from Bundjalung, Shenyang, Larrakia, Abruzzese, Samoan, Maltese, Māori, Filipino, Malaysian and Finnish traditions, to name just a few," says Melbourne Food & Wine Creative Director Pat Nourse. "They're cooking in fine-dining restaurants and in pubs, serving food on china plates on damask cloths, and straight out of restaurant windows, doing it savoury, sweet, spicy and everywhere in between — if you're looking for flavour, it's right here in Victoria this March, and there's plenty of it." Of course, the festival would not be complete without the beloved Baker's Dozen that will feature guests from interstate and overseas, including Ottolenghi sweets boss Helen Goh. It's been a big year for bakeries in Melbourne, and your favourites from across town will make an appearance, including Amann Patisserie, Butter Days, Iris, Monforte Viennoiserie, Raya, Sebby's Scrolls, To Be Frank, and so many more. "The Melbourne Food & Wine Festival once again shows why we are the nation's food and wine capital and the 2026 program is sure to attract visitors from near and far — boosting local businesses and jobs," said Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos. Further events have been announced for this year's massive program. As part of the Global Dining Series and Special Events, diners can expect limited-edition menus, once-in-a-lifetime experiences, exciting collaborations, and rare pairings. "We're thrilled to welcome some of the world's most exciting hospitality talent to Melbourne for 2026," said Anthea Loucas Bosha, CEO of Food + Drink Victoria. "From Phil Khoury's plant-based croissants at Lune to Nat Thaipun's bold collaboration with Andy Hearnden and James Lowe's take on pizza, these events highlight the creativity, skill and diversity that make this Festival so special. There's truly something for every diner to discover." If you want a fiery festive evening, head to Smoke, Skewers and Som Tum: Grilling with Nat Thaipun and Andy Hearnden, which celebrates the universality of cooking over fire. "Andy and I both learned to cook over fire from our families," says Thaipun. "Getting to do this together, outside, with smoke in the air and a crowd with us, feels like it's going to be a good time. Come on down." For the first time ever, Lune goes vegan in collaboration with acclaimed pastry chef Phil Khoury, showcasing an olive oil-powdered croissant in a ticketed Lune Lab-style evening at the new Lonsdale Street mega store. These are just a few of the more than 200 events across Melbourne and regional Victoria scheduled for the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival this year, so get your tickets now. Images: Supplied. Tickets for the 2026 Melbourne Food & Wine Festival go on sale at 10am on Thursday, November 27, with pre-sale tickets available from 10am Monday, November 24, for subscribers. If you miss out on tickets to the Greek Longest Lunch, you can still try the best Greek restaurants in town using our handy guide.
Now here's one to add to your must-try list: Disuko, a glammed-up Japanese disco diner, will swing open its doors on Bourke Street on Tuesday, November 18. When you take an iconic Melbourne venue that has been reimagined by an experienced hospitality group, and pair it with a talented chef and an ultra-cool, eighties-inspired fit-out, you've got a pretty foolproof recipe for success. Taking over the former Madame Brussels spot was going to be big shoes to fill for anyone. For Melburnians, an afternoon at the former footloose and fancy free hang-out, with coveted skyline views in the background and a large jug of Pimms on the table, was like a rite of passage. Many have missed the Madame since she left and have been waiting patiently to see who would replace her. It's only fitting, then, that those who have stepped up to the task have a wealth of hospitality experience across our great city. MAMAS Dining Group will remarkably add their seventh restaurant to their stable of venues, including Suzie Q, Hochi Mama and Windsor Wine Room, with the opening of Disuko. This new multi-faceted venue, designed to transport diners to the energetic era of 1980s Tokyo, is the group's most ambitious to date. Taking its name from the Japanese word for 'disco', it's no surprise that party tunes and feel-good vibes are at the heart of this venture. Patrons will first be greeted with Disuko's DJ on the vinyl decks and shining disco balls hanging from the ceiling, with some of Australia's most talented DJs making guest appearances on the decks each weekend. Behind the eight-meter, orange-hued, vinyl-backed bar, Bar Manager Joshuiea Scott will be pouring specialist sakes, highballs and cocktails. Signature drinks include the Hana Nashi with Roku Gin, rose water, lemon and pear, the Ginza Girl, which blends Red Shiso Grey Goose with Burmutton Sake Dry Vermouth, and the Shogun, which is a tangy mix of lemon, yuzu, ginger beer and green tea. Explore further, and you'll find a lacquered, den-like dining room, designed by Thai Ho and Joan Budiono, and constructed by DIRECTITUDE. Taking cues from the moody and enticing late-night lounges of Tokyo, the low-lit space, enveloped in Japanese red timber with sultry cherry-red leather banquettes and bottle-green booths, lends itself to leisurely lunches and boozy dinners. Head Chef, Hoa, who earned his stripes across kitchens such as Nobu and Kisumé, now brings his expertise to the Disuko kitchen. Along with MAMAS Dining Group's Creative Culinary Director, Stolley, they have created a fun and fresh menu that includes everything from chargrilled bites from the hibachi grill to expertly crafted nigiri. A nostalgic, Japanese McDonald's-inspired Fillet-O-Ebi Sando is a moreish mix of crumbed prawns, prawn mousse, tartare, chopped eggs and tonkatsu sauce. Chewy udon noodles are topped with dashi smoked bacon lardo, shoyuzuke yolk and miso sauce to create a take on carbonara. Lightly seared wagyu tataki is paired with yuzu kosho cream, ponzu and crispy potatoes. For a special occasion, venture to the red, glowy, eight-seat omakase bar, and be transfixed by master sushi chefs as they create a refined, 12-course menu right before your eyes. And for warm summer nights, the terracotta terrace, which takes advantage of those city views, is poised to be an ultimate after-work hang-out spot. Thai Ho, Director of MAMAS, says, "The inspiration for Disuko was born from years spent visiting my family in Shibuya, Tokyo. The country instantly captivated me – its culture, cuisine, hospitality, and energy of the city is electric. Disuko is our way of bringing a slice of Shibuya life to Melbourne, think neon, nostalgia, and nothing but good times. We wanted to create a space where the disco era of 1980s Tokyo can live again, but this time, with a distinctively Melbourne heartbeat." Images: Supplied.
When April 1 rolls around, it's always best to approach the day's news with a sense of humour, but one of this year's best gags isn't just a joke. For April Fool's Day, Google Maps transformed into a giant online game of Where's Waldo? — and it's available to play all week. After the company's Mario Kart caper a few weeks back, and their Pac-Man April Fool's Day update a few years back as well, it's now another iconic character's turn to roam through Maps. As anyone who has leafed through the books will know — aka everyone — good ol' red-and-white jumper-wearing Waldo likes to hide in plain sight, which means that it's up to you to find him. https://twitter.com/googlemaps/status/980203086512869376 Anyone keen to play along simply needs to update their Maps app or visit the desktop version, where Waldo is waiting to be spotted. You'll first find him waving to you from the side of the screen, and then you'll work your way through the game's five levels to find him in various places around the world. If that's not enough addictive fun, you can also try to locate his friends Wenda, Woof, Wizard Whitebeard and Odlaw. Chilean snowfields, the beach at Australia's own Surfers Paradise and South Korea's Olympic Stadium are just a few of the stops on Waldo's world tour. And yes, even when he's in countries other than the US and Canada, the game still refers to him as Waldo, rather than Wally. It'll always be Where's Wally? to us, though. Via Google Maps.
UPDATE: SEPTEMBER 30, 2020 — You can now get Bodega Underground's gluten-free Mexican snacks, as well as margaritas, bottles of wine and Mexican beers for either pick up or delivery. Just head here to order. This CBD taqueria should be on your list for a number of reasons. First, it's affordable, with tacos coming in cheap. Second, it will meet all dietary requirements as the whole menu is gluten-free and there are heaps of vegan options. And third, it's open seven days a week right through until midnight. The black bean, zucchini and sweet potato tacos all come with vegan cream, while the chorizo, fish and pork options will satiate meat eaters. On top of that, you can opt to add on chilaquiles (chicken or vegan), Mexi chicken wings, lamb ribs or spicy fried potatoes. Each of the drinks on offer have their own Mexican twist. We're talking spicy, beer-infused micheladas, piñata conladas, tequila-based palomas and even something called a Mexican Toreador. Bodega also dishes up a well-priced bottomless Mexi brunch from midday every Saturday and Sunday. With 90 minutes of unlimited cocktails, you can pretend like you're day-drinking somewhere between Cabo and Cancun as you dig into a hearty, five-course spread of tacos, chilaquiles and ceviche. If you're GF or vegan, the team can accommodate. Images: Jean-Louis Carvalho Appears in: The Best Bottomless Brunches in Melbourne for 2023
It seems that 2026 is already shaping up to be a significant one for the hospitality world. Towards the end of 2025, many important industry players announced plans for their next venues — whether it's their second, third, fourth, or even in some cases, their tenth venture. In the coming months, we'll be treated to new openings that span the likes of European grills channelling the flavours and vibes of the Basque coast, casual eateries inspired by the pizzerias of Naples, late-night diners influenced by New York steak houses, and Japanese venues that have already found fame interstate. So if you need something to look forward to this year, read on with great anticipation of all the incredible food you'll be treated to in 2026. Recommended reads: The Best Restaurants in Melbourne The Best Wine Bars in Melbourne The Best Restaurants in Melbourne CBD The Best Private Dining Rooms in Melbourne Bar Carnation Carnation Canteen, the pink-pastel-hued, petite and charming neighbourhood bistro owned by Head Chef Audrey Shaw and her husband, Alexander Di Stefano, was met with an immediate warm welcome upon opening, owing to the team's hands-on hard work, perseverance, and an unwavering dedication to quality — both in terms of food and service. In 2026, Shaw is taking her strictly seasonal, intuitive and produce-led ethos to a second location, and one with a lot of legacy at that. Bar Carnation is set to open in the original Gerald's Bar venue, set to bring a refreshed energy and new focus to the space while paying due respect to what came before. While we don't know much yet about the plans yet, you can expect aperitivo-style snacks, pastas, and of course, ever-changing seasonal specials. Garfield King & Godfree, the historical Carlton grocery shop, is to enter a new era with three fresh, new venues to make their home in the iconic corner building site in 2026. The first of the three venues will see the space previously occupied by Agostino transformed into a casual and fun pizzeria. That casual pizzeria, Garfield, set to open soon, is inspired by the pizzerias of Naples, Rome, and even Tokyo, which, if you haven't heard, is producing some of the best pizzas in the world. Named for an orange cat that wandered into the building site and helped himself to leftover pizza, Garfield is slated to be just as playful, reimagining classic techniques with bold flavour pairings. With celebrated chef Karen Martini leading the charge, inventive offerings are set to include blended Italian staples (such as a Margherita x Marinara number) and modern takes on old favourites, such as Garfield's Hawaiian, featuring house-roasted leg ham, fermented pineapple, and barbecue sauce on a white base. And with Pidapipo next door, it's no surprise that dessert will feature rotating Pidapipo soft serve. Côte Basque In late 2025, legendary restaurateur and chef Andrew McConnell and partner Jo McGann set tongues wagging when they announced plans to open their next restaurant in Melbourne in mid-2026. Côte Basque, located on Crossley Street, will offer a European grill that channels the flavours and vibes of the Basque coast. "The name references our love of Basque culture and the coastline that bridges the northern Basque region of Spain and the southwest of France. The raw beauty of the region and a bounty of benchmark produce have long been an inspiration for us," says McConnell. In collaboration with Vince Alafaci and Caroline Choker of ACME, McConnell has designed the interiors to respect the legacy of the Becco venue (previously home to Pellegrini's) and to reflect the building's mid-century features. New additions will include outdoor dining and a private room on the first floor, designed for leisurely lunches, lively dinners, and intimate gatherings. McConnell says, "We don't have many heritage restaurant spaces in Melbourne, and to have the opportunity to restore the original features in this room is a dream. To continue its lineage as a restaurant will contribute to the wonderful energy on Crossley Street, re-emerging as one of the great walk-through laneways in Melbourne's top end." Yamagen Already a popular Japanese dining destination at the QT Hotel on the Gold Coast, Yamagen will make its Melbourne debut in early 2026, with a stellar team leading the charge. Adam Lane, Culinary Director, has created a menu that is precise, refined, and dialled into the senses. His menu draws on traditional techniques, rich flavours and fresh ingredients to produce premium dishes such as scallop sashimi with citrus, tender wagyu, and spanner crab cooked over flame. "We are thrilled to bring the Yamagen experience to Melbourne after its incredible success on the Gold Coast. Yamagen has become synonymous with award-winning, modern Japanese Izakaya dining, providing the ultimate immersive experience. With its inventive cuisine, superior craftsmanship and quality local produce, Yamagen Melbourne will deliver new generation Japanese for the discerning diner," says Dominic Rose of EVT Group. Frenchie Melbourne is set to land a rebellious take on French dining in early 2026. Frenchie will bring classic French flavours, techniques and dishes, with one obvious difference — the price tag. Frenchie's big draw card is that everything on the menu will be priced at $14. Yes, you read that correctly. All the plates, as well as all cocktails, bubbles and beers, are all $14. Those plates will play into classic bistro dishes reimagined for a new generation. Share plates will be bold and flavourful, and tableside service and roaming trolleys will add a dramatic flair to the dining experience. The pair behind the new venue, Julian Diprose and Lucas Boucly, with many years of experience in the hospitality industry, were fed up with the dining experience often being overshadowed by formality. About Frenchie, Diprose says, "It's loud, social and a little chaotic. We wanted to create a space that takes the 'joie de vivre' of Paris without the price tag. A place where you can sip champagne in sneakers, maybe lose track of time and enjoy the night without having to worry too much about the rules." The Frog Club The team behind Melbourne perennial hotspot, the Gilson, is adding to the list of alluring hospo venues coming in 2026. James McBride and Marc Gurman are well-versed in the art of Melbourne drinking and dining. Their Domain Road cafe by day, restaurant by night, the Gilson, draws crowds from all hours, serving not only energetic vibes, but consistently high-quality food. Now, they are taking their many years of experience and channelling it into The Frog Club. Slated to open in August 2026, the new venue is set to be a hot new grill and late-night spot, taking up the former Morris Jones Site on Chapel Street in Windsor. "At The Frog Club, we are creating a venue we have really missed in Melbourne," says co-owner Jamie McBride, "where it is not just the food that is culturally exciting, but it is also the atmosphere, a place you don't really want to leave."The venue will take influence from New York City grills, while also focusing strongly on music with a high-flying vinyl collection. There will be burgers and dry-aged steaks, classic cocktails, and if the Gilson is anything to go by, it's likely the guest list will be as notable as the wine list. Feature image: Cote Basque, James Geer.
After nearly a decade, Stranger Things is sadly coming to an end. Stranger Things Season 5 will be released on Netflix across three premiere dates, with Volume 1 dropping on Thursday, November 27 (four episodes), Volume 2 dropping on Boxing Day (three episodes), and The Finale streaming on New Year's Day. Each volume is released at midday AEDT. It's no secret that the final series has been a few years in the making. Season 4 premiered in May of 2022, meaning we've waited over three years to find out if the Stranger Things kids can defeat Vecna once and for all. The thrilling sci-fi drama is set in the fictional American town of Hawkins, Indiana. While the group of teenagers battle monsters and travels to alternate dimensions, the 1980s nostalgia of Hawkins (and the show) is hard to miss. To help you ease back into the vintage and sometimes spooky spirit of Stranger Things, we've created a 1980s travel guide. From American diners to regional towns, here are some real-world Aussie places that look straight out of Hawkins. Walhalla, Victoria While Australia's environment and landscapes differ from those of the United States' Midwest region, there are a handful of regional towns that capture the eerie atmosphere of Hawkins. Founded as a gold-mining community in the 1800s, the Victorian town of Walhalla is now home to just 20 permanent residents. Despite its small size, Walhalla is a tourist hotspot, attracting people who want to learn more about Australia's gold mining past. Located 180 kilometres north of Melbourne, Walhalla (which was once one of Australia's richest towns) has reconstructed a number of its heritage buildings — resulting in a tourist town that makes you feel like you've stepped through a time machine. Book a stay at Walhalla's Star Hotel, cycle through the town a lá Stranger Things kids on a bike tour, or, if you fancy something spookier, join the Walhalla Ghost Tour. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Architecture Uprising Australia (@arch_aus) [caption id="attachment_898563" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Valentina's Diner[/caption] Valentina's Diner, Sydney Nothing screams Midwestern town like a plate of diner pancakes. Located in Marrickville, Sydney, Valentina's Diner offers pastel booths (perfect for planning some monster-fighting), as well as an All-American classic menu. From black diner coffee to breakfast sandwiches and American-style cheeseburgers and fries, you'll feel ready to binge-watch the new episodes after your visit. [caption id="attachment_780688" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Evie's Disco Diner[/caption] Evie's Disco Diner, Melbourne Inspired by 1980s New York City, Evie's Disco Diner is your taste of nostalgia pre-Stranger Things watch party. Situated in Fitzroy, Melbourne, Evie's Disco Diner serves American diner dishes (including a number of vegan-friendly options) in a discotheque bar and feels plucked straight from the streets of Hawkins. With a colourful dance floor, bottomless brunch, and drag bingo galore, Evie's Disco Diner is Melbourne's destination for 1980s fun. Book a table with friends to dance to some throwback tracks ("Running Up That Hill", anybody?) before your watch party. [caption id="attachment_902834" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Leonard's House of Love[/caption] Leonard's House of Love, Melbourne Step through the doors of Leonard's House of Love, and you'll find yourself in a dive bar where you could easily spot Hopper sinking a beer post-Demagorgon chase. The South Yarra haunt has a retro feel that's reminiscent of the eighties aesthetics. From wood-panelled walls to neon-lit signs and shag-carpet cosiness, Leonard's House of Love is a time-warp American-inspired dive bar that's perfect for getting into the Stranger Things spirit. [caption id="attachment_1047764" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Mount Victoria via Wirestock[/caption] Mount Victoria, NSW Hawkins may not have mountains, but it does have eerie trails and forests full of secrets. This atmosphere can also be found in the New South Wales village of Mount Victoria. Located in the Blue Mountains, Mount Victoria has a rich history (not dissimilar to Hawkins). While there's no experimental science lab or Upside Down world, there are scenic trail walks and even a vintage independent cinema for some nostalgia. If you're a history buff, be sure to book a trip to Mount Victoria Museum to learn more about local history and maybe even find some town secrets out for yourself. [caption id="attachment_858552" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Stranger Things courtesy of Netflix © 2022[/caption] Fortress, Melbourne and Sydney One central theme of Stranger Things is the board game, Dungeons and Dragons. The closest Australia has to a Hawkins Hellfire Club headquarters is the gaming bar, Fortress. The community hubs feature weekly Dungeons and Dragons meet-ups with a three-hour guided D&D adventure and even a dedicated Dungeon Master. You can join as a group or solo member and play the game that gave Vecna his namesake. [caption id="attachment_1049117" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Yackandandah[/caption] Yackandandah, Victoria With its picture-perfect shopfronts and sleepy-town charm, Yackandandah in Victoria feels like the show's early seasons (you know, before the Upside Down leaked into the real world). The North East Victorian town is surrounded by trees and a high street that feels like the last century (in a quaint way, of course). It's easy to imagine Eleven and co pedalling past the old petrol pumps or heading to the vintage stores for some arcade-perfect outfits. You don't need a portal to the Upside Down to feel like you've stepped into the Stranger Things universe, so make a reservation and book a long weekend trip away before (or while) you binge Stranger Things Season 5. Stream Stranger Things Season 5 only on Netflix from Thursday, November 27, 2025, at 12:00pm AEDT. Lead image credit: Stranger Things Season 5 Netflix
News just in that Melbourne is set to land a rebellious take on French dining in early 2026. Frenchie will bring classic French flavours, techniques and dishes, with one obvious difference — the price tag. Frenchie's big draw card is that everything on the menu will be priced at $14. Yes, you read that correctly. All the plates, as well as all cocktails, bubbles and beers, are all $14. Those plates will play into classic bistro dishes reimagined for a new generation. Share plates will be bold and flavourful, and tableside service and roaming trolleys will add a dramatic flair to the dining experience. The pair behind the new venue, Julian Diprose and Lucas Boucly, with many years of experience in the hospitality industry, were fed up with the dining experience often being overshadowed by formality. About Frenchie, Diprose says, "It's loud, social and a little chaotic. We wanted to create a space that takes the 'joie de vivre' of Paris without the price tag. A place where you can sip champagne in sneakers, maybe lose track of time and enjoy the night without having to worry too much about the rules." The owners want Frenchie to be a fuss-free, feel-good, late-night venue that is approachable and accessible. With red velvet and mirrored lighting, the venue design leans into the romance of Paris, the allure of the Moulin Rouge, and the grit of Melbourne's street culture. "Taking a lot of inspiration from Parisian bistros and late-night wine bars, the menu celebrates all your favourite French classics served in a way that feels unpretentious and full of energy," says Boucly. Images: Supplied. Frenchie is slated to open in early 2026 at 1/15 Collins Street, Melbourne, trading Monday to Saturday from 5pm to late. Subscribe to the newsletter now to keep up to date with details.
It's been 25 years since the first episode, but people are still obsessed with Grand Designs. Sure, the futuristic and downright ridiculous homes are captivating. Yet many of us are tuning in to see how the insanely optimistic budgets, disappearing timelines and inevitable pregnancy announcement resolve themselves. Through it all, host Kevin McCloud is on hand to deliver a supportive quip or dire prophecy. Now you can hear McCloud's infectious energy in person with his old mate and self-confessed architecture nerd, Tim Ross, as the pair tour the country for Live in Interesting Places. On the back of a new podcast series, Tim and Kev's Big Design Adventure, they'll regale audiences with tales of modernist marvels, utopian visions and design-fuelled banter. And, as the name suggests, McCloud and Ross will come together in five architecturally significant venues throughout Australia. [caption id="attachment_1050527" align="alignnone" width="1920"] St George's Performing Arts Centre. Credit: Scott Burrows.[/caption] Presented across multiple dates from Thursday, February 5–Sunday, February 15, 2026, the tour kicks off in Perth at the University of Western Australia's Octagon Theatre. Onwards to Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney and Canberra, audiences will gather in Brutalist theatres, heritage-listed churches and much-loved public buildings, from St George's Performing Arts Centre to the Lindfield Learning Village, fascinated by the duo's big design ideas. Several years in the making — the pair haven't appeared together since two sold-out Sydney Opera House shows in 2019 — get insight from these great thinkers and perhaps reconsider that intricate building project you had in mind. "These shows are going to be entertaining and edifying," says Kevin. "And full of surprises — you won't believe where our nerdy curiosity will take you," adds Tim. [caption id="attachment_1050526" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Lindfield Learning Village. Credit: Alex Mayes.[/caption]
Some music festivals head on tour, be it the nation or the world, to share their fun. Others livestream. Tomorrowland ticks both boxes, hopping between countries and broadcasting live. The electronic dance music fest that first started in Belgium in 2006 also has a different way of spreading the love: taking its CORE stage to other locations, including to Australia in 2026. After expanding to Colombia for two editions so far, CORE has confirmed bigger plans for next year, embarking upon a global festival tour. First comes a return to Medellín in February, before making its US debut in Los Angeles in May, then hitting up Melbourne for its first-ever trip Down Under in November. While the two other cities will get a two-day CORE experience, its Aussie stint will make the most of just one: Saturday, November 28. So far, there's no other details on offer, including venue or lineup; however, the latter is due to be revealed in early 2026. This is the first time, too, that CORE will host standalone festivals on a trio of different continents — growing from its beginnings within Tomorrowland. It started as part of the overarching event back in 2017, but think of it as a fest within a fest that's now expanded to become its own unique experience, host its own dates and take on its own tour of the globe. So, the full Tomorrowland production isn't journeying to Australia — but CORE, one of its most-beloved stages, popping up in Melbourne is still huge news. The Aussie jaunt is a collaboration with agencies Framed and Pitch Control, and promises attendees "a natural, enchanting setting" for its alternative house and techno tunes, as paired with vivid multisensory staging. Think: lights, an immersive audiovisual approach and even scents. "We are thrilled to bring the iconic CORE stage to Australia. As one of the signature experiences of Tomorrowland, CORE represents the essence of our music, art and stage design. We look forward to sharing this unique atmosphere with fans in Australia and around the world," said Debby Wilmsen, spokesperson for WEAREONE.world, which is behind CORE and Tomorrowland. CORE Melbourne is taking place on Saturday, November 28, 2026, with venue details yet to be announced and the lineup set to be revealed early in 2026. Head to the event's website for more information and to pre-register for tickets.
