UPDATE: OCTOBER 29, 2019 — Due to external factors, the opening of Mary's Melbourne has been pushed back to the end of January 2020. The below article has been updated to reflect this. By now, Sydneysiders are more than familiar with the American-style burgers, decadent fried chicken and wild child vibes of Jake Smyth and Kenny Graham's Mary's empire. Having launched their original burger restaurant in Newtown in 2013, the boys now have four Mary's venues under their belts, the latest opening in Sydney's CBD just last month. They've even ventured down south for a couple of brief flirtations, hosting a one-day kitchen takeover at Leonard's House of Love and then a two-month kitchen residency at cocktail bar Fancy Free earlier this year. Now, Melbourne's set to score a proper, permanent taste of the Sydney crowd-pleaser, with news we'll have our own bricks-and-mortar Mary's outpost come summer. Smyth and Graham have nabbed a "cavernous" site on Franklin Street in the CBD, where they're slated to unveil their newest project in late January, 2020. "We're here to do what we do," said Graham in a statement. "To give our punters simple, delicious food, backed up with an experience that's fun as hell." [caption id="attachment_684208" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Mary's, Sydney.[/caption] They're staying true to their slightly grungy, slightly rock 'n' roll form, so expect an unassuming laneway entrance — marked by only a red light — leading through to a sprawling venue complete with a majestic, custom-made wrought iron chandelier covered in 24,000 hanging dead roses. The flowers are damage stock from Sydney markets, so nothing is going to waste, either. It'll also be the duo's biggest venue yet with 140 seats and, just like the OG Newtown spot, a mezzanine level will overlook the rest of the room. The food offering will showcase tried-and-true Mary's favourites like the Mary's burger, the mushroom burger, fried chicken and gravy-drenched mash, alongside a few Melbourne exclusives. The kitchen will also be dishing up a version of Mary's new vegan menu, which has been going gang-busters since launching at the Circular Quay outpost in May. Mary's fans will know to expect a pretty primo drinks offering to match and, indeed, this one won't disappoint. Award-winning Mary's Group Sommelier and Wine Director Caitlyn Rees has pulled together a lineup of over 100 wines, heroing local Victorian producers. Mary's Melbourne is slated to open at 167 Franklin Street, Melbourne, in late January 2020. You'll be able to book tables for eight or more guests. Top image: Nikki To
Like all the good things in life, Melbourne Music Week (MMW) — which is renowned for throwing gigs in unusual Melbourne venues — has proven it only gets better with age. And you can bet this annual celebration of Melbourne's world-class music scene has big things up its sleeve for its tenth anniversary edition. Descending on the city from Friday, November 15, to Saturday, November 23, the festival of aural delights will this year pay tribute to some of the highlights of its first decade, with a retrospective program that once again transforms unlikely spaces across the city into rollicking live music venues. In the ultimate throwback move, MMW 2019 marks the return of a fan favourite, with immersive pop-up venue Kubik returning as the festival hub. After first appearing at the 2011 festival, it will this time make its home at Alexandra Gardens, delivering a nightly program of local and international sounds. Designed by Germany's Balestra Berlin, the outdoor structure offers up a feast for the senses, featuring technology that allows it to light up in time with the music. Headline acts including Melbourne dance legend CC:Disco!, German electronic act Monolake, and French natives Kittin and Raphaël Top-Secret promise to give Kubik a serious workout this year. [caption id="attachment_743323" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Rubik set-up from 2011.[/caption] Elsewhere in the 70-event program, more international goodness comes courtesy of German electro-punk icons Deutsch Amerikanische Freundschaft (DAF), who are headed to the Melbourne Town Hall for their Aussie debut, raising the roof alongside homegrown heroes Total Control and Dark Water. Tiny Ruins, Steve Gunn and Grand Salvo will electrify the Redmond Barry Reading Room at State Library Victoria, Melbourne-based Sarah Mary Chadwick works her brand of magic on the iconic T.C. Lewis Organ at St Paul's Cathedral, and a host of free panels and conversations covers everything from sustainability in the industry, to the psychology of music. Opening night kicks things off with an audible bang on Thursday, November 14, featuring over 100 free gigs and performances between MMW events like Live Music Safari and Swell 5.0. As for the closing party, it's also digging deep, pulling local legend Roza Terenzi to the foyer of Hamer Hall, for a late-night aural celebration set to kick on until 4am. Melbourne Music Week 2019 will run from Friday, November 15, to Saturday, November 23, at various venues across the city. Tickets will go on sale at 10am tomorrow, Thursday, September 26. Take a look at the full program here.
Following in the very bright and joyful footsteps of Taylor Square in Sydney, Melbourne's St Kilda is now home to a 35-metre-long flag down Jackson Street. The road is a public display of the City of Port Phillip's support for marriage equality and a celebration of the area's LGBTQI+ community, as well as a way of injecting a little colour and joy into the days of everyone who treads across it. Jackson Street makes up part of the busy Fitzroy Street precinct in St Kilda, and is considered to be highly visible to those walking, riding, tramming or driving. Acting Mayor Cr Dick Gross said the area's long-standing history with, and commitment to, the LGBTQI+ community makes it the perfect spot for the rainbow road. The area has hosted the annual Midsumma Pride March for 23 years. Head along to the new St Kilda rainbow road, take a photo — do watch for cars — and help spread colour (and positivity) throughout the city. Images: Sanjeev Singh
Anyone with even a passing interest in gaming will be familiar with the concept of the ‘boss arena’. Be it Mario or Mass Effect, there’s an intuitive moment experienced by every player when their character suddenly strolls into a vast open space surrounded by high, insurmountable walls and they're gripped by an immediate, unnerving sense that things are about to get a whole lot worse. Whether or not this idea directly informed the production team of The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part II, the same unsettling sensation rears its head throughout the franchise’s final installment and will leave audiences scrambling for their invisible 'save buttons' time and time again. An abandoned city square, a deserted mall and a sewer system all play host to these phenomenally tense and terrifying sequences (so much so in that last sequence that parents were taking their children out of the screening). Indeed, this is a fittingly bleak and violent conclusion to a franchise where anything less would have represented a disappointing commercial concession. To end on a positive note would have offered an incompatibly upbeat finale to this tale of dystopian bloodsport in which children are forced to kill for entertainment and political intimidation. Even the satirical pomp of characters like Elizabeth Banks’s Effie and Stanley Tucci’s Caesar has been stripped bare, so much so that you could almost be forgiven for thinking Mockingjay II was filmed in greyscale. Gone, too (thankfully) is the teenage angst that mired much of the previous film in near unceasing dullness. In fact, everything here is kept mercifully simple: Katniss (Jennifer Lawrence) intends to kill President Snow (Donald Sutherland), but to do so she and her team must first navigate the perils of the Capital minefield. That’s it. That’s all that’s going on here. And the film is much stronger for it. The problem, of course, with such a dark and joyless approach is that portrayals of gritty, hardened soldiers can easily be mistaken for bored or lacklustre performances, and Mockingjay II is no exception. Sutherland, in fact, appears to be the only one enjoying himself, both as a character and a performer. His wry smile and pointed barbs earn almost every one of the sparse laughs throughout, leaving everyone else to move from scene to scene as if in a communal drunken daze. On the rare occasions where emotion does surface, it’s invariably from one of the supporting roles. To its credit, Mockingjay II doesn’t hold back in its depiction of war crimes, and its final stages boast a moment that is genuinely shocking, both narratively and visually. None of the films that have followed the original have been able to match it – either in terms of story or performance – but the finale is not far behind. A fittingly bleak and violent conclusion to a compelling if overlong young adult franchise. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n-7K_OjsDCQ
What's even cooler than getting around town in some personalised threads? Well, getting around in personalised Gucci threads. If you're quick on the uptake and have enough cash to burn, this could soon be your reality, as the iconic fashion house brings its DIY service to Melbourne. First launching at Gucci's flagship Italian store in June, 2016, the service is now set to pop up at the label's newly revamped Collins Street store until Sunday, November 5, giving locals the chance to customise a huge selection of mens and unisex products. Customers can select from a wide array of buttons, fabrics, monogram lettering options and silk foulard linings to jazz up a broad range of jackets and trousers, both casual and formal. There's also a swag of eveningwear options, personalised by your own selection of collars, cuffs, knit styles and prints. But to be the envy of even your most fashionable friends, look no further than Gucci DIY's covetable collection of casual jackets. The label's letting customers personalise its range of unisex silk bombers and Japanese denim jackets, with a broad selection of washes, fits and linings. The icing on the super stylish cake is the customisable embroidery and patches, pulled from Gucci's own vibrant catalogue of signature symbols. Gucci DIY is available from October 19 to November 5, at Shop 1, 161 Collins Street, Melbourne. For more info, visit the store.
Malvern might be accustomed to welcoming new cafes, but Leah Blefari is accustomed to the difficulties of eating out with particular dietary. And this is why, perhaps, her new café Tonic & Grace stands out from the Glenferrie Road crowd. Nestled in near Malvern Station, Tonic & Grace has a menu almost entirely made up of vegan and vegetarian fare, with the option of adding a sly egg or bit of smoked salmon here and there. All inclusive of vegos, vegans, gluten-free and dairy-free folks, the cafe is doing a couple of things to the beat of their own drum — and it's a worthy drum to be banging. "80 percent [of the menu] is vegan," says Blefari. "So people that are vegan or gluten intolerant don't need to worry about what's in their food. There's still the option of adding different proteins for those who don't have dietary restrictions. The whole idea was to flip the coin — usually people with dietaries have to chop and change; how about we make it easier for them and let everyone else add on what they like?" Blefari's menu includes some of the classic brekky goodness Melburnians have grown to love and demand from their city, including — of course — the omnipotent smashed avocado. This one's vegan though, served with quinoa, beetroot hummus and a sesame crumb, and "people go crazy for it," says Blefari. There are also multiple — six — milk choices, ranging from soy to rice. The cafe's range points to inclusiveness everywhere it can, something Blefari sees as an integral focus. "We want people recognising that everyone does eat differently and that it's ok. I would love to make some waves, seeing that other cafes follow suit and have all the dietary requirements accessible for people," says Blefari. Future plans for Tonic & Grace will stretch beyond breakfast options. Blefari wants the cafe to be a one-stop, on-the-way-back-from-the-train-station effort for the folk of Malvern, and is looking at providing ready-made, fresh meals for those too busy to cook. "Clean, fresh, take home meals, sort of like Hello Fresh… on your way to or from the train station, if you want some dinner, we'll have it there waiting for you — that's the aim." With big goals (and milk selections) abounding, our interest is certainly piqued. The "Nyctophilia" certainly helps: dark chocolate and pea protein pancakes, with strawberries, walnuts, salted caramel and dark chocolate ganache — made from raw cacao — and, of course, all vegan and gluten free.
Sustainability, eh? Everyone's talking about it, the hospitality industry is neck-deep in it, and it's scrutinised in everything from your stool to your salmon. Sustainability has never been more prevalent — or so necessary. We've seen the introduction of the Glacier 51 Toothfish (a regulated, safe way of farming the endangered Patagonian toothfish), free-range eggs from local farms such as Green Eggs become a regular on cafe menus and people like Joost Bakker start a new wave of sustainable design While it seems like every guy who can fry a fish is slapping the sustainable sticker on their offering, there are a few venues going past the first point of call and minimising their environmental impact in big ways. From inner-city rooftop worm gardens to laneway waste dehydrators, we have a look at five of the most sustainable venues in Melbourne. Silo by Joost This is the obvious one to top the list, but only because it's wildly in front of everyone else when it comes to waste minimisation. Eco-designer, entrepreneur and all-round sustainable guy Joost Bakker created Silo (as an offshoot of Perth's Greenhouse) with the intention of creating zero waste. And when he says zero waste, he actually means nothing. Suppliers deliver their goods in re-useable crates (the milk comes in a giant steel pail each morning), produce comes sans packaging and all food scraps are taken to the waste dehydrator that sits out in the back laneway. Silo also mill their own wheat (for fresh baked bread), hand roll their own oats (for maximum nutrition) and make their own yoghurt from scratch (for showing off, mainly). Delve into their processes and it's hard not to be impressed. Every element has been meticulously implemented and translates into one smooth (very sustainable) operation. 123 Hardware Lane, Melbourne, (03) 9600 0588, byjoost.com/silo Mesa Verde You might be familiar with Mesa Verde's tacos, but you probably weren't aware of their darling rooftop garden right next to Rooftop at Curtin House. But don't get too excited, because this garden (unfortunately) isn't for human social fun times — it's for the worms. As well as supplying the Mexican bar restaurant with the necessary herbs and special ingredients, the urban garden is also one of Melbourne's only rooftop worm farms. This ensures nothing goes to waste and you get some home grown coriander in your cocktail. Level 6, Curtain House, 252 Swanston Street, Melbourne, (03) 9654 4417, mesaverde.net Pope Joan Head out of the city to Brunswick East, where 'growing your own' is at the heigh of realisation. Pope Joan has been doing this for a while now, with chef Matt Wilkinson focussing on seasonal produce. Want to know what's going to be on the menu? Have a look at their on-site veggie patches, located in the sweet garden (which doubles as a outdoor dining area) and you can get a general idea. It's a 'paddock to plate' philosophy with a simplicity that makes Pope Joan one of the best. 75-79 Nicholson Street, Brunswick East, (03) 9388 8858, popejoan.com.au The Grain Store Another hidden urban garden can be found on the roof of The Grain Store. The Flinders Lane cafe has always placed emphasis on the importance of sustainable, locally-sourced produce, with much of theirs coming directly from Brunswick's CERES and other local providers. But chef Ingo Meissner also has his own private rooftop garden that he uses to grow cauliflower (for their cauliflower, quinoa and goji berry dish?), tomatoes and herbs. Apparently it's just a couple of vegetable boxes, but it's another notch on The Grain Store's impressive belt of wholesome success. 517 Flinders Lane, Melbourne, (03) 9972 6993, grainstore.com.au Taxi Kitchen They've undergone a re-branding and lost a bit of their fine dining finesse, but Taxi Kitchen (nee Dining Room) is still serving up sustainable food at the centre of town. Still located at the Transport Hotel, their green produce is picked straight from the green slopes of the Fed Square rooftop car park, which has been utilised as a pop up veggie patch for surrounding bars, restaurants and members of the public. So, there you go — even the most man-made thing in Melbourne can be environmentally sustainable. Level 1, Transport Hotel, Federation Square, cnr Swanston and Flinders Streets, (03) 9654 8808, taxikitchen.com.au
2018 came and went without new episodes of two of television's most popular series. Thankfully, the same won't prove true of 2019. Game of Thrones' final season is coming in April — before winter — and Stranger Things will return mid-year. Mark your calendars accordingly. In the case of everyone's favourite 80s-set sci-fi/horror series, Stranger Things will drop its third season on Thursday, July 4. Prepare to return to Hawkins and face the demogorgon once more — and to find out what 1985 has in store for Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown), Will (Noah Schnapp), Mike (Finn Wolfhard), Dustin (Galen Matarazzo), Lucas (Caleb McLaughlin) and the gang. Netflix unveiled the date as part of a brief teaser, which doesn't feature any new footage from the forthcoming eight-episode season, but does interrupt a New Year's Eve broadcast with cryptic government messages. It also reveals that the series will be set around the July 4 American holiday, continuing a trend of releasing new episodes to coincide with special occasions. The show's second season dropped in October 2017, with Halloween weaved into its storyline. While the streaming platform is yet to launch a proper trailer for season three of Stranger Things, it did reveal the season's episode titles in another teaser back in December. Feel free to ponder the meaning of names such as 'Suzie, Do You Copy?', 'The Mall Rats', 'The Case of the Missing Lifeguard' and 'The Battle of Starcourt' until July 4 rolls around. https://www.facebook.com/NetflixANZ/videos/366266914175965/?__xts__[0]=68.ARB6tA30GHZBliVxnjVfAQxVNsz_44Zuezt6075kSgJQk1NDr6kHK5hQSmwE2gCZIba35AqA010k8OC9d1oImVX3qqzIh89nRh4BIPIfRfFeZlosAB31BFi-mC6se4R0ibCnvdo3R9RSi4Ip36BjZ_j_UmOpbYQdZdlUPAYsg4kQhBxseS4PgzCL3nYHlLTru5XVDn1GV5dzbtMsMGjQmlmRqzND6gm9xeqit_zmru8SrmgqXGSOJhoL42UFS5cUGT45wf_7vlSdE0PcfB5WK0OfczrE8pUODXnX0KNVzBvIzICi_tw-Klap4ZgIDKKInsCSUU-lGzAkgFZMt42oackL8lqMKpVaedzLZA&__tn__=-R Stranger Things season eight will arrive on Netflix on Thursday, July 4.
Melbourne's summer might not last forever, but you can bank on some year-round tropical feels at The Luwow's new CBD tiki bar. After five years shaking colourful cocktails and playing retro tunes on Fitzroy's Johnston Street, followed by a bit of a hiatus, the much-loved venue moved into new digs in the city late last year. It's now bringing the party vibes to Little Collins Street, in a space that's a little more intimate, but every bit as lively as the original. Here, owners Skipper Josh Collins and Barbara Blaze — also behind Perth's Hula Bula Bar and Devilles Pad, and new Sunshine Coast resort The Luwow Lodge — have created yet another high-voltage, kitschy hideaway. It's filled with hand-carved totem poles, jungle plants, leopard print and bamboo, as well as treasures picked up from across the South Pacific. Vintage sounds plucked from the duo's own collection of vinyl deliver a toe-tapping mix of rock 'n' roll, ska, surf, exotica and 60s garage, while DJs work the decks each weekend. [caption id="attachment_762096" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tracey Ah-kee[/caption] Following in the footsteps of its predecessor, The Luwow 2.0 is whipping up a bold cocktail menu of rum-heavy drinks, many crafted with natural sweeteners like organic coconut blossom nectar. You'll find concoctions like a gutsy mai tai, the flaming share-sized Voodoo Volcano and the Don Zombie — a blend of rum, pink grapefruit, star anise, pomegranate and cinnamon. Fancy some holiday-style drink prices? The daily happy hour (4–6pm) offers a slew of $10 tiki cocktails, along with pints of Red Stripe lager for an easy $7 a pop. Like the space itself, the food offering here comes chock full of pan-Pacific flavour. Try corn tortillas topped with the likes of slow-roasted pork shoulder and salsa verde, an Oaxacan cheese quesadilla or the mulitas — a crispy corn taco sandwich loaded with cheese, guacamole and your choice of fillings. [caption id="attachment_762095" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tracey Ah-kee[/caption] Of course, the tiki bar concept isn't without controversy. With cultural appropriation, colonial nostalgia and exploitative use of First Nations peoples' iconography and tradition at its core, the concept is often seen as exploitative, offensive and problematic. In many Pacific Islander communities, a tiki is a deity. In tiki-themed bars, it's a kitschy drinking vessel. Others insist, however, that tiki bars aren't meant to be taken too seriously — that we should instead focus on its fun side and drink that mai tai. Perhaps 2020 will be a turning point for how we view tiki bars, collectively. Find The Luwow at 212 Little Collins Street, Melbourne. It's open 4pm—midnight Monday—Thursday and 4.30pm–1am Friday–Saturday. Images: Tracey Ah-kee
Want to learn dance moves worthy of a Kanye music video? Or, more specifically, the epic booty pops thrown down by the devastating Teyana Taylor in that Flashdance-inspired clip for 'Fade'? If your answer is 'yes' (and of course it is), you'd best start limbering up in anticipation, because Amrita Hepi is here to teach you all the basics, and ensure you're set to slay in all future dance floor endeavours. The gun choreographer and dancer will take over The Toff in Town's bandroom on May 15, hosting two beginners dance classes inspired by those pulsating moves that make Kanye's video so damn watchable. All bodies and skill levels are welcomed — all you need to bring is a fierce attitude. The classes will take place at The Toff in Town on Monday, May 15, with the first kicking off at 6.35pm (buy tickets here) and the other at 7.30pm (buy tickets here).
Winter might not be your favourite Melbourne season, but it doesn't have to be all gloom, doom and nights spent hibernating on the couch. Once again, a collection of bookable private igloos are popping up at bars and pubs across town, inviting you to embrace the chilly season in style. Making their home at four Australian Venue Co haunts across the cooler months, the Winter Igloo Gardens feature a series of translucent domes, with each pod decked out like a dreamy winter wonderland. With space for up to six or eight diners (depending on igloo sizing), they're kitted out with snuggly furnishings and twinkling fairy lights, offering a cosy private space for a romantic winter date or that group catch-up over dinner and drinks. Menus and packages vary between the four Igloo Gardens, though whichever you choose, all food and drink orders are made via the Mr Yum app, so you can avoid pesky trips to the bar and stay happily ensconced in your private winter cocoon. So where can you find these domed winter oases, you ask? The first batch has already landed beside the Yarra at Studley Park Boathouse in Kew, where they're available to book for two hours at a time. On offer here is a winter high tea, serving an assortment of sweet and savoury bites with unlimited tea or coffee for $52 per person. You can even add on bottomless spritzes and mimosas for an extra $25. Over in Footscray, the Station Hotel has unveiled its own Igloo Garden, taking two-hour bookings for groups of two to six. Here, you can settle in over a three-course feed — think, wagyu tartare with truffle and black garlic mayo, and a 150-gram scotch fillet with lashings of bearnaise — matched with a welcome drink for $75. [caption id="attachment_854426" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Station Hotel[/caption] From Saturday, May 21, the CBD's Wharf Hotel is joining the igloo party, with its pods boasting views across the river. This one's ideal for snackers and grazers — you can order a loaded share platter (meat or plant-based) teamed with the likes of mulled wine or a couple of hot toddies, for $59 per person. And Hawthorn's Auburn Hotel will unveil its igloos from Tuesday, May 24, serving specialty winter cocktails and a shared menu option. $69 will get you a three-course spread, a cocktail to kick things off, and exclusive use of your igloo paradise for 2.5 hours. Find the Winter Igloo Gardens at Studley Park Boathouse in Kew, the Station Hotel in Footscray, the Wharf Hotel in the CBD (from May 21), and the Auburn Hotel in Hawthorn (May 24). For further details and to book, see individual venue websites.
Horn Please has passed through a few different owners' and chefs' hands throughout the years. It was originally run by Jessi Singh until he sold it in 2015, to work over in New York. Amar and Raj Singh then took over until Jessi returned in 2018 to work as a consultant and chef for Horn Please. Nowadays, each of these chefs and restaurateurs plays apart in making Horn Please one of the very best Indian restaurants in Melbourne. It's definitely worth a visit — for a few reasons. Jessi grew up in a humble, North Indian kitchen, and his love of food and traditional cooking methods is evident by just looking at the menu. The 'Street' menu includes a beetroot paneer tikka, generously marinated in curd cheese and charred in the tandoor oven, as well as Colonel Tso's cauliflower, served with a tomato chilli sauce. If you're hanging out for a curry then it's all here, including mouth-watering favourites like free-range butter chicken, marinated in yogurt, tomato and fenugreek, as well as classic village dishes such as Punjabi kadhi. This dish consists of spinach fritters with turmeric and slow cooked sour yoghurt. There's even a cheeky sweets menu to close out the night, including classics such as Indian donuts and mango lassis. Horn Please is no longer BYO, but there's a good reason for that. They've invested a generous pour of time and effort into creating a drinks menu on par with the food menu. Standouts include the salted caramel espresso martini and the dirty lassi. There are Indian beers to compliment the curries and a range of whiskies including Paul John, a sumptuous sing-malt from Goa. The wine list is eclectic with a focus on Australian and European drops. Top images: Peter Tarasiuk
Bored within the confines of your 4-wall bedroom? Embrace your bohemian desires by trading in your modern accommodations for a whimsical gypsy wagon. England's Gypsy Caravan Company creates wagons fit with a double bed, seating, a pull-out table, storage lockers, wardrobe, a secret den, and bookshelves. These miniature homes are also furnished with all the romantic decor appropriate for such a home design: birdcages, crocheted curtains and wood stoves. The company asserts a myriad of uses for such a structure, ranging from a child's playhouse to and artist's studio. These caravans are the perfect hideaway for those who want to unleash their inner romantic or who lead a gypsy-esque nomadic lifestyle--each wagon is equipped with a set of wheels. [via Flavorwire]
In 2023, IKEA celebrated 80 years of operation. To mark the occasion, it unveiled the Nytillverkad collection, which scours the company's design archives to bring back pieces that've proven a hit in the past, and also riff on its prior highlights in general. Like anyone commemorating a big birthday, the Swedish giant isn't done with the festivities yet. Just because it's now 2024, that doesn't mean that it can't keep dropping retro products. With the brand's lengthy history, there's a reason that almost everyone can't remember a time the chain was a homewares go-to. Started by Ingvar Kamprad, aka the IK in IKEA's moniker, it began in 1943 and moved into furniture in 1948. The company then opened its first store in Sweden a decade later — and came to Australia in the 70s. It's the decade of IKEA's Aussie arrival — and the 60s as well — that gets a massive nod in the Nytillverkad collection's latest drop, which hit stores and online on Wednesday, January 10. Think: shaggy rugs, bold patterns and swivel armchairs. Think bright pops of colour as well. Among the side tables, cushion covers and more, 12 of the newly available pieces are re-introductions, with IKEA's Karin Mobring and Gillis Lundgren reviving them from the brand's history. "Vintage furniture has made a big comeback lately, and there's been a growing demand for certain IKEA products that have become collector's favourites," said IKEA Sweden Global Design Manager Johan Eidemo. "That is why we decided to bring back a selection of our design icons, and we are excited to see interest coming from customers of all ages, especially young people who are discovering our design legacy and using these vibrant solutions to express themselves at home. To us, these products are the essence of democratic design, they are timeless, as they combine a beautiful form, a great function, sustainability, an affordable price, and quality that lasts long." Does your lounge room need a white and chrome two-tier side table that first graced IKEA's catalogue in 1971? A yellow-hued armchair from 1969? A black armchair that's designed to reduce stress from 1967? A pendant lampshade that debuted in 1979? They're part of the Nytillverkad range's current vintage focus. Prices vary from $5.50 for a cushion cover to $299 for an armchair — and like with all IKEA limited-edition drops, including its recent first-ever workout collection, you'll want to get in quick before everything sells out. IKEA's Nytillverkad collection is on sale now in Australia, in store and online, until stocks last. Head to the IKEA website for further details.
In early September, Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews unveiled how the metropolitan Melbourne area will gradually ease out of its stage four COVID-19 lockdown. On the cards is a five-step removal of restrictions. We are currently in the second step of the plan, however, more restrictions eased at 11.59pm on Sunday, October 18 as the Victorian Government works toward the third step (hopefully set to happen on November 1). Thanks to this latest rollback of restrictions, Melburnians can travel further and more services (like hairdressers) can reopen, as can tennis courts and golf courses. But, everything is certainly not normal this Grand Final long weekend. The game itself is taking place over at The Gabba in Queensland on Saturday, October 24. Thankfully, though, Victoria still gets a public holiday on the Friday — and it's the first all-Victorian Grand Final since 2011, with the Richmond Tigers and Geelong Cats going head to head. If you're wondering exactly what you now can and can't do this long weekend, that's understandable — the new restrictions are a lot to take in. So, we've detailed the basics. This information is correct as of Thursday, October 22. Is there still a curfew? No, the curfew for metropolitan Melbourne has been scrapped. It lifted for the last time at 5am on Monday, September 28. Originally, it was due to stay in step two, but Premier Andrews announced that change on Sunday, September 27. For what reasons am I allowed to leave the house? Remember those four reasons first announced way back in March? Yep, it's still those. You can leave home to purchase groceries and other essentials, for care and caregiving, for permitted work, and for outdoor exercise and recreation which now includes socialising with up to nine people outdoors. [caption id="attachment_776562" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Heroes mask[/caption] Do I still have to wear a mask? Yes, masks or face coverings are still compulsory whenever you leave home. In fact, the rules for masks have tightened in step two. You now have to wear a fitted face mask — with bandanas, scarves and face shields no longer acceptable. How long am I allowed to be out of the house for? The two-hour limit on time spent out of the home has now been lifted. You may now leave your house for any amount of time in order to exercise or socialise with friends or family as long as you're abiding by all other restriction. How far can I travel? You can now travel up to 25 kilometres from your home, five times as far as you've previously been allowed to venture. However, if you live in Metropolitan Melbourne, you are still not allowed to travel into regional Victoria even if it is within 25 kilometres from your home. If this newfound freedom is a little overwhelming, this website can help you determine what fits in your 25-kilometre radius. Can I see friends and family? Yes, but there are quite a few caveats, so bear with us. You can catch up with up to ten people, from a maximum of two different households, outside of your home. You can exercise with them or have a picnic (socially distanced, of course), but you cannot travel more than 25 kilometres from your home. This has been increased from the previous limit of five people. Inside your home, the rules are a little different. The "single social bubble" from step one is still in place, which allows a single person living alone or a single parent with children under 18 to nominate one person to be in their bubble. You are allowed to have this nominated person over to your home and you can go to their home — and you can travel more than 25 kilometres to visit them, but you must stay within metropolitan Melbourne. You can also stay overnight. The same rule still applies for intimate partners, too. Can I have a session with a personal trainer in a park? Under step two, yes. Up to two people per trainer is allowed. Can I have a picnic in a park? Yes, as long as it's with up to ten people (including yourself) from a maximum of two different households — and within 25 kilometres of your homes. Here are some of our favourite spots. [caption id="attachment_786853" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Go Boat by Lean Timms[/caption] Can I have a picnic on a boat? Luck you asked, because yes you can. Melbourne's BYO pet-friendly picnic boats have returned to the Yarra. But, you can only hire one if you live within 25 kilometres of Southbank and your sailing route. We also highly suggest booking over here. Can I go to the beach? Yes, if there is a beach within 25 kilometres of your home. You can only go with up to ten people (including yourself) from a maximum of two different households. Can I drive to a park or beach? As long as it's within 25 kilometres of your home, yes. While it was initially banned at the start of stage four, the government changed the rules after backlash on social media. Can I go to a pool? Indoor? No. Outdoor? Yes. Up to 30 people may swim in an outdoor pool, but there are capacity limits and bookings at many pools, so check the website before throwing on your togs. You can check out some of our favourites over here. [caption id="attachment_750757" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Urbnsurf by Adam Gibson[/caption] Can I go to a surf park? You sure can — if it's in your bubble, of course. Urbnsurf, Victoria's only surf park, has started pumping out waves again. Once again, bookings are essential and you can make one right here. Can I visit a regional town? If you work in regional Victoria, you can travel there (but you'll need a permit) — otherwise no. You can travel more than 25 kilometres from your home to see someone in your "social bubble", but you cannot enter regional Victoria for this reason. Can I go shopping? For groceries and other essentials, yes. But not all shops are open and some have altered hours, so check before you head off. And do make sure you stay within 25 kilometres from your home. Can I get my haircut? Yes. Under the new restrictions, hairdressers and barbers are allowed to recommence work. As it has been a long time since Melburnians have been able to get a haircut, booking ahead of time is recommended. [caption id="attachment_786571" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Prahran Market X Moon Dog footy pack[/caption] How about to a restaurant or cafe? You can pick up takeaway from a hospitality venue located within 25 kilometres of your home, but dine-in service is off the cards for now. To help get your ready for the long weekend, we've rounded up some of the best goal-kicking Grand Final packs you can order to your home for game day. Can I go to gyms or other recreational services? Indoor gyms are currently closed, but outdoors playgrounds and gyms are open. Tennis courts, skate parks and golf courses will also reopen under the new revised restrictions. Can I watch the game? Hell yes. And you can do so for free, too. Channel 7 will be playing the game live from 7.30pm AEST, with pre-match coverage starting from 4.30pm. You can also watch it via 7 Plus. If you have more questions, the Victorian Government has an extensive list of FAQs on its website. Top image: Go Boat by Lean Timms
Matt Wilkinson's iconic cafe Pope Joan spent years as an inner-north culinary go-to, before a new building development forced a move and it settled into its current CBD digs in 2019. These days, the venue is continuing its original legacy in a Collins Street home, now steered by Danish Head Chef Bente Grysbæk. Her reinvigorated breakfast menu features a slew of familiar favourites alongside some creative newcomers. The popular rhubarb-topped rice pudding ($12) remains, as do the elevated boiled eggs with soldiers and bacon bits ($13). But you'll also find additions like a Danish-inspired breakfast hash starring Warialda beef rump, fried eggs and potato gems ($25), the Milawa chicken schnitzel sided with dashi-dressed cabbage salad ($28) and hero veg plates like the Romsey pumpkin with toasted seeds, hummus and spiced agave ($24). The sandwich game here is as strong as ever, with signatures like the Pope Joan brekkie roll ($14) and the reuben ($19) now joined by the likes of a roast cauliflower pita wrap ($16), and a Danish open rye sandwich featuring smoked salmon, crudités and a mustard sauce. The cake trolley has also made its return, loaded with sweet things you can match to an Allpress coffee or house chai. Come afternoon, you're in excellent hands with snacks like Port Phillip sardines and free-range chicken liver parfait, plus cheese and charcuterie platters, to enjoy alongside classic cocktails or a glass or two of vino. Images: Kristoffer Paulsen
Intrepid travellers have been getting down to fishy business in a submerged hotel room off Tanzania’s East Coast since November. But now, you can turn the occasional subaquatic sally into a permanent thing. That’s right, 144 years after Jules Verne wrote 20,000 Thousand Leagues Under the Sea, underwater homes are officially up for sale. Meet the H20ME, the brand new undersea residential creation from US Submarine Structures. The structure is comprised of two floors that provide 340 square metres of sunken living space between them. On the top level, you'll find two bedrooms, two bathrooms, an open lounge and expansive skylight-type structures. On the bottom floor, there's a master bedroom, kitchen, dining area, lounge, library and bar for mixing copious Sea Breezes and Salty Dogs. Every ocean-facing wall is made of transparent acrylic panels, kept clean by automatic water jets; you're pretty much backdropped on every side by a live, 24/7 version of Finding Nemo. What's more, the view is kept well-illuminated and busy via an elaborate array of external lights and fish feeders. You can literally populate your view with bait. You can even opt for a seascaping service, through which you can order colourful coral gardens according to your taste. Yep, that's tailormade ocean views, designed by your lucky, lucky self. Where exactly in the world you take up residence in your H20ME is up to you — and most likely the government who owns your chosen seabed. The only specification is that it must be built between ten metres and eighteen metres below sea level. Access is attained through a private pier connected to either an elevator or a spiral staircase and the dwelling is fixed to the sea floor with bolts and struts. Air pressure is maintained at the same level as that found on land — so there's no need for decompressing every time you pop out to the shops to replenish your dwindling caviar supply. The only catch (zing) is the H20ME will set you back a cool $10 million. Start saving those dubloons. Via Gizmag. Images: US Submarine Structures.
There's nothing like watching a film at the planetarium, but it's something most of us don't do all that often. Daytime sessions cater to school groups, and the Melbourne International Film Festival's full-dome program only comes around once a year. Thankfully, Scienceworks' late-night series is about to change that. Every Friday evening, once the planetarium's usual working day is done, adults can have fun in its impressive space. That means sitting in the reclining chairs, looking up at the 16-metre domed ceiling, listening to the 7.1 surround sound system and soaking in the best the full-dome video projection system has to offer. Alien invasions, dives through black holes and more are also on the Planetarium Nights bill, and short films screen at 7.30pm and 9pm. Making things even better is the fact that the whole thing is boozy, so you can grab a drink from the bar, take it into the auditorium and sip while you watch. Updated: September 5, 2019.
Take a trip through Melbourne’s past, present and future in the only show at the Comedy Festival in which getting hit by a tram is a legitimate possibility. A historical walking tour of the CBD hosted by a giant, talking, anthropomorphic penguin, Xavier Toby’s When We Were Idiots probably isn’t the funniest show you’ll see this festival season, but scores major points for thinking outside the box. Ticket-holders meet their flightless tour-guide in front of the Burke and Wills statue on the corner of Collins and Swanston Street. After handing out high-vis safety vests, he launches into his pitch: the year is 2114 — an enlightened era in which everything is recycled and all tools of warfare have been replaced with hilarious alternatives. The one exception to this global utopia is Melbourne, lost a century prior beneath a mountain of coffee cups and hipsters. Uncovered by future archaeologists, the city exists now only as a testament to the stupidity of the past. That and a way for an enterprising penguin to make a buck. Why Toby is dressed like penguin is one of the many vaguely surreal things about When We Were Idiots, an experience that definitely works best if you embrace its fly-by-the-pants format. Strolling at a brisk pace along Swanston Street. before taking a left turn into Bourke Street Mall, punters are treated to morsels of popular trivia about Melbourne’s original settlement, along with outlandish anecdotes from the 22nd century and jabs at contemporary politics and pop culture. At the same time, participants are actively encouraged to engage with the members of the public, who Toby insists are simply actors he has employed in the service of his elaborate tour. Special points are offered to anyone who can steal a policeman’s gun. “If you get into trouble, tell them the giant Penguin told you to do it,” Toby says. “That should clear everything right up.” Unfortunately, even more so than in a regular live show, there are certain factors outside of Toby’s control. These might include but are not limited to: noisy streets, the B.O. and/or chain-smoking habits of your fellow festival-goers or, worst of all, someone in the audience who thinks they’re the comedian (shout out to Damo: you’re a total fucking wanker). Nevertheless, for those looking for less traditional options this Comedy Festival, When We Were Idiots is a thoroughly entertainingly experience. There’s also a free beer coaster in it for you at the end, so really, how could you go wrong? For more coverage of the 2014 Melbourne International Comedy Festival check our regularly updated festival diary.
As if Wes Anderson's The Grand Budapest Hotel could get any more adorably twee, Argentine designers Sabrina Giselle Acevedo and Jazmin Granada (both graphic design students at the University of Buenos Aires) have recreated Anderson's latest film's opening credits using paper. Making a pop-up book-like representation of Gustave's reception keys and Agatha's perfect Mendl's cake, Acevedo and Granada have created a squealworthy sequence of stop animation to make your day that little bit more grand. Via Fubiz. Want more Grand Budapest Hotel-ery? Check out our attempts to recreate Mendl's Courtesan au Chocolat with Gelato Messina over here.
In our own ways, we all fill our homes with interesting items. That's what galleries and museums obviously do, too. Imagine what must sit in their collections — the things they can't always display, and often don't, but are worth holding onto for an array of reasons. Actually, hit up Sydney's Powerhouse Museum in the second half of 2023 and you'll no longer simply have to wonder. The Ultimo venue has just announced its next huge exhibition: 1001 Remarkable Objects. That title is indeed descriptive, with the site's curators, led by curatorium chair Leo Schofield AM, diving into its vast store of pieces. Showcasing 1001 items might sound hefty, but there's a whopping 500,000 in the full collection, making those selections tricky work. [caption id="attachment_895796" align="alignnone" width="1920"] 'Supreme' mouse-trap making machine by AW Standfield and Co, Mascot, NSW, 1925-2000. Image: Anthony Potter.[/caption] Opening on Saturday, July 22, free to attend, and worth a look whether you're a Sydney local or making a trip to the Harbour City, this exhibition will span a wide variety of objects — celebrity-worn outfits, mousetrap-making machines, ceramic peacock and more. "Our vision for 1001 Remarkable Objects was a seemingly simple one: to create an exhibition celebrating the sheer scale, breadth and relevance of the Powerhouse collection. But how to choose?" said Schofield. "We rejected the nomenclature of 'treasures' or 'masterpieces' and instead determined all choices must be in some way 'remarkable' — whether by virtue of rarity, visual appeal, social history or an ability to invoke wonder. The result is a cornucopia of eras, styles, form, function, size and colour, to stoke memories that so many have of this iconic institution and signal the beginning of a new phase in its marvellous existence." [caption id="attachment_895790" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Performance costumes, 'Fruity Mambo', designed by Catherine Martin, made by Catherine Martin and Rosie Boylan, for Strictly Ballroom The Musical, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia, 2014. Image: Laura Moore.[/caption] Four certain highlights all were once donned by someone, well-known names and samurais alike. Kylie Minogue's Sydney 2000 Olympics 'showgirl' costume will be on display, as will Nicole Kidman's 'pink diamonds' Moulin Rouge! dress and, still on Baz Luhrmann, the 'fruity mambo' costumes from Strictly Ballroom the Musical. Or, you can peer at an Edo-period samurai warrior's armour. Featuring pieces that've never been shown before, and filling 25 rooms, Schofield's selections also cover the only surviving fragment of the Lockheed Altair aircraft Lady Southern Cross that Sir Charles Kingsford Smith flew in 1935 on his final flight, that 1.5-metre-tall peacock from 1870s, a Detroit Electric car made in 1917 and part of the original transatlantic cable from 1858. And, there's more than 100 pieces of jewellery, including mourning pieces crafted from human hair — and a focus on glass, as gleaming through French and Venetian examples from the 1800 and 1900s, plus Australian and international glass artworks. [caption id="attachment_895791" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Diamond brooch in the form of a bee with sapphires on his head and in stripes across his body and with ruby eyes, gold settings. English c.1870. Image: Marinco Kojdanovski.[/caption] 1001 Remarkable Objects displays at Powerhouse Ultimo, 500 Harris Street, Ultimo, Sydney from Saturday, July 22 through to December 2023. Top image: Detail of suit of armour, possibly of samurai officer Koma Kaemon of Bizen clan, Japan, Edo period, possibly 1775. Image: Ryan Hernandez.
What's better than indulging in a sweet treat? Indulging in one that gives back — and that's exactly what you can do with this exciting new collaboration. Social enterprise Two Good Co. is teaming up with Gelato Messina on an exclusive, Australian-inspired dessert range, the proceeds of which will be donated to aid women and children facing domestic violence and homelessness. From Monday, October 9, the Sydney-based food brands have launched a joint chocolate bar and a festive Christmas cracker, available nationally on the Two Good website and in-store at Messina outposts. Then, from Saturday, November 25, a limited-edition gelato flavour to pair with the chocolate bar will also be available alongside a bunch of gelato cart pop-ups across the country. This particular dessert will aim to raise awareness of a 16-day global initiative called the 16 Days of Activism Campaign, whose mission is to eliminate gender-based violence. "For this year's festive release, we wanted to create a truly immersive experience that enhances your holiday celebrations and leaves a lasting impact — for both our customers and our community," said Rob Caslick, Founder of Two Good Co. The epic collaboration will feature three enticing desserts, including an indulgent milk chocolate bar crafted by Messina chocolatiers — featuring dark chocolate and wattleseed brownie pieces and sea salt flakes throughout — alongside a Christmas cracker containing a voucher for a free Messina scoop and a limited edition milk chocolate gelato flavour aptly named Two Good to Miss, which also features the additions of sea salt with dark chocolate and wattleseed brownie pieces. The Two Good Foundation will power its missions to aid those in need, with 50 percent of the chocolate bar profits being reinvested into its core programs, while each Christmas cracker purchase will provide a much-needed meal to women and children in need. Every scoop of the 'Two Good to Miss' flavour will also contribute to the mission, as each scoop purchased will provide a free serving to women's refuge shelters. "It's not just about serving gelato; it's about serving love, support and hope to women and children in need. For every scoop sold, it's our way of wrapping them in love and letting them know they are not alone," says Messina's Siân Bishop. "[We want] to inspire our customers to engage in small acts of kindness during a time when some people need it most." Plus, there will be the aforementioned gelato cart pop-ups, called Scoops for Good, serving the limited-time gelato at Charter Hall office towers throughout Australia, as well as any participating Charter Hall retailers. But be sure to get in quick — the limited edition treats are only available online, in stores and at the pop-up gelato carts while stocks last. Head to the Two Good Co. website for more information on the social enterprise's collaboration with Gelato Messina.
Asking someone out is hard. Sometimes it can take weeks (perhaps even months) to tuck your sweaty hands behind your back, make your best attempt at flirting and pop the question. But contrary to popular belief, that's not the toughest part — figuring out where to go is. If it's something new, chances are you don't want to drop a load of cash just yet. Not that it gets any easier if you've been together a long time, either — new haunts are hard to come by when you're five years in and trying to balance both romance and a budget. To help you out, we've partnered with Melbourne's ridesharing platform DiDi to find five fresh spots that'll have you and your date seeing stars in your eyes — and not because of the menu prices. Just like you, DiDi is committed to keeping costs down, too, so what you save on transport, you can spend on dates, dinners and good ol' debauchery. Stop fearing your wallet, pick one of these affordable spots and get ready to have fun night.
Romance. Kidnapping. A farm girl called Buttercup. A scheming prince. A swashbuckling saviour. A giant. When William Goldman threw them all together, The Princess Bride was the end result — first in his 1973 novel, and then in the 1987 film that the late, great writer also penned. For more than three decades, viewers have watched Fred Savage hear the world's best bedtime story, Robin Wright and Cary Elwes frolick in fields, and Andre the Giant tower over everyone around, with The Princess Bride one of those beloved 80s flicks that never gets old. That said, if you've ever found yourself enjoying all of the above and thinking "a musical number or two wouldn't go astray", you're about to be in luck. Despite what outlaw boss Vizzini (Wallace Shawn) might exclaim, a musical version is no longer inconceivable. Instead, Disney is channelling another famous Princess Bride line: as you wish. While the project has been in various stages of development for more than a decade, a new creative team has been hired to finally make this all-singing take on the tale a reality, The Hollywood Reporter notes. Fresh from nabbing a 2018 Tony Award for The Band's Visit, David Yazbek will take care of The Princess Bride's original music and lyrics, while book fellow Tony winner Bob Martin (The Prom, The Drowsy Chaperone) will pair up with Rick Elice (The Cher Show, Jersey Boys) on the book. If The Princess Bride musical does come to fruition this time, it'll join the ever-growing list of movies leaping to the stage, including Matilda, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Bring It On, Mean Girls, Clueless, The Bodyguard, Amelie, Waitress, Muriel's Wedding and Moulin Rouge!, with versions of The Devil Wears Prada, Empire Records, Mrs Doubtfire, The Notebook and Aussie classic Starstruck also in the works. No timeframe has been given for The Princess Bride; however the film's trailer will help tide you over until more news comes to hand: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P9FRDyTerZA Via The Hollywood Reporter.
Like its exterior, the contents of this store have a penchant for the absurd. Enjoy a healthy bento lunch while day-dreaming about hamburgers. Organise your desk with some post-its that tell it how it is. Or slow down your schedule with a 365-day clock. Though this novelty makes it the perfect place to pick up an outlandish gift, Third Drawer Down also offer a curated selection of homewares and everyday items that are useful all-year round. Dive into the madness on either side of the Yarra. Third Drawer Down now have stores in both Fitzroy and Prahran. Third Drawer Down is also located at 155 Greville Street, Prahran.
Smack bang in the middle of Melbourne's most Italian suburb, on its most Italian strip, surrounded mostly by Italian restaurants, you'll find something unexpected: a bright, modern Indian restaurant. The new venue is called Kahaani, which means 'story' in Urdu — quite appropriate when you take a closer look at the menu. It's the brainchild of Head Chef Aseem Sood (formerly of Peter Rowland and Scotland's Crieff Hydro Hotel) and business partner Kunal Bhardwaj (Le Cordon Bleu and Grand Hyatt), who cooked up the idea after COVID torpedoed Bhardwaj's popular St Kilda wine bar. Kahaani is the sort of venue where you could order butter chicken, but you probably shouldn't order butter chicken. No one's going to raise any eyebrows if you do, but you'd be missing out on some of the treasures that lie deeper into the menu. Think puffed pani puri balls with tangy tamarind sherbet, barramundi fillets with green spice rub, or moreish spiced potato buns which go down particularly well with a lager. Another highlight is the tandoor-charred cauliflower, served with kasundi and charcoal yogurt. If you can only order one dish, though, make it the Ghar Ka Ghosht goat curry. It's where Kahaani's 'story' element really shines. This particular dish can be traced all the way back to Kunal's great uncle, who owned a café in Pakistan after the British occupation in 1947, but was forced to flee to Punjab. The recipe has been passed down in Kunal's family ever since, from mother to son, and now sits proudly under the mains section at Kahaani. Ghar Ka Ghosht translates to 'home-style meat', and it'll leave your Friday night butter chicken in the dust: tender chunks of goat, simmered in an aromatic gravy, spiked with ginger, garlic, cumin, cardamon and garam masala. Kahaani itself is classic Lygon: a long, narrow dining hall, with funky industrial lighting and exposed brick down one side. The front window opens out onto the street, letting the breeze and Lygon nightlife waft in. The food implies elevated Indian fare, but the prices are reasonable, and there's a well-stocked wine board that changes each week. If you don't know where to start, just ask for the $45 'Make My Feast' menu and get your waiter to pick a bit of everything. Food on Lygon St has been hit and miss over the last 15 years, and Kahaani feels like a breath of fresh, East Indian air. "Unreasonably authentic" reads the restaurant tagline. Cheese naan this place is not. Kahaani is now open at 262 Lygon Street, Carlton, Tuesdays–Saturdays, 5.30pm–9.30pm. Images: supplied.
Chinese New Year is coming up on February 8 and in 2016 we’ll be ringing in the year of the monkey (goodbye year of the sheep, go sleep it off). And what’s the best way to partake of the celebration? We’ve got it right here and it’s more fun than a barrelful of monkeys. Well, actually it is a barrelful of monkeys. Dumpling masters Din Tai Fung are offering new limited edition ‘Monkey Buns’ for the month of February and they are literally the cutest food we’ve ever seen. Just look at them. Din Tai Fung are famous for their dumplings and are known to release beautiful and novelty dumplings for special occasions (check out these adorable little lamb buns from last year). The monkey bao buns are steamed-to-order and stuffed with a sweet filling of chocolate and banana. They’re part of a series of new dishes being added to the menu from February 1 including crispy golden seafood roll, braised Szechuan sliced beef noodle and vegetarian egg fried rice with mushroom and truffle oil. Unfortunately the monkey buns are only available in the Din Tai Fung restaurants in Sydney and Melbourne (not the food court outlets) so you’ll have to make an proper sit-down event of it. The only problem we can foresee is that eating those sweet little monkey faces may be hard… but we’ll probably manage it. Monkey Buns are available for $4.80 per piece from Din Tai Fung restaurants from February 1 – February 29.
Caulfield is one of those suburbs you don't hear much about. In fact, one could probably enter their early thirties without even so much as a visit to the south-eastern neighbourhood. But we've got a feeling that's changing, fast. Last year saw Tuck Shop Take Away lure burger-lovers into the area, and now Caulfield looks like it has its very own destination-worth cafe to match. It doesn't take a practiced cafe-spotting savant to hunt down Frank and Ginger. Drive down Alma Road, heading away from St Kilda and towards Caulfield North, and you won't be able to miss it — not because of the size of the cafe, but because it's the only one around. The residential surroundings mean it's easy to get a park, but you'll definitely have to jostle a local or two for a seat on the weekend. But you've got to expect some jostling when there's brunch involved. Fight for your right to hoe into a giant bowl of oaty granola served with fresh fruit and lavender-infused yoghurt ($12) and/or a breakie bagel with all the good stuff ($10). It's worth it. The menu is familiar but there's enough to irk your interest. We'd recommend ditching the regular avocado mash for the spicy pumpkin and feta. Served with pumpkin toast, hummus, beetroot relish and poached eggs ($15), it's a great dish with loads of taste and texture. There's also a morning salad with avo, tomato, mint, haloumi and a poached egg that might actually bring you around to the idea of eating a salad for breakfast ($15). The space is small but it packs more seats than you'd expect, which increases your chances of getting a table as well as knocking elbows with the diner beside and behind you. Maybe two less tables would make things a bit less intense. If it's looking a bit tight, takeaway might be your saviour. The Maling Room coffee tastes just as good out as it does in, as do their lemongrass and ginger bahn mi ($12). With only a month's service under their belt, Frank and Ginger are doing well to manage both the eat-in brunchers and drop-by passersby looking for something to take with them. By the looks of things, Caulfield locals are heaving a sigh of joy. The trans-suburb Sunday morning pilgrimage is over — they have their own local now.
When Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement decided to don fangs, embrace the undead and make a mockumentary about vampire housemates, What We Do in the Shadows was the sidesplittingly funny end result. And when the pair decided to expand the concept on the small screen, utterly delightful things followed, including NZ television show Wellington Paranormal — which stuck with the movie's movie's cops as they kept investigating the supernatural — and the American TV series also called What We Do in the Shadows. That US television offshoot also boasts a killer cast, all playing an ace roundup of vamps. For the uninitiated, this iteration of What We Do in the Shadows is set in Staten Island — but no, Pete Davidson doesn't show up. Instead, the series focuses on a household where Nandor (Kayvan Novak, Cruella), Laszlo (Matt Berry, Toast of London and Toast of Tinseltown) and Nadja (Natasia Demetriou, Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga) all live. Energy vampire Colin Robinson (Mark Proksch, The Office) and Nandor's familiar Guillermo (Harvey Guillen, Werewolves Within), the latter of which comes from a family of slayers, have also staked a claim in the story. Given that this What We Do in the Shadows has been running for four seasons now, with a fifth on the way, that basic premise is just the beginning. Plenty of supernatural mayhem has followed Nandor and company, and long may it continue. Indeed, in the just-dropped trailer for season five, everything is as wonderfully chaotic as ever — and yes, "bat!" gets yelled and Matt Berry is as glorious as ever. Visits to shopping malls, getting into politics, hosting news shows, saucy rendezvous, the return of other familiar faces: they're all glimpsed in this sneak peek, which doesn't just herald the return of TV's best vampires, but of the best on-screen universe there is. Fingers crossed that just like bloodsuckers, this small-screen take on What We Do in the Shadows will never die. For now, its fifth season has locked in a mid-July return date in the US, which hopefully means that it will hit Australia via Binge and New Zealand via Neon at the same time. Check out the trailer for What We Do in the Shadows season five below: What We Do in the Shadows' fifth season arrives in the US on July 13, with Australian (via Binge) and New Zealand (via Neon) return dates still to be confirmed — we'll update you when they're locked in.
It's clear that every effort has been made to bring a slice of Paris to Melbourne at Bar Vue. Sitting next to Bistro Vue at Normanby Chambers, it's clustered, casual and atmospheric. With an outdoor heated terrace, chic glass panelling and opulent detailing, the hum of the city echoes a street-side ambience that would be perfectly at home in the French capital. Bar Vue's happy hour runs Monday to Friday, from 5pm until 6.30pm, and provides half priced draught pints and house wine by the glass, turning the space into a truly social hub. Great for casual group gatherings or smaller duos, Bar Vue's sleek interior gives you the ample privacy for a quiet evening or is an ideal spot as a prelude to a big night out. The bar menu is a concise selection of simple Gallic favourites, including pommes frites ($8), ham hock terrine ($12) and steak tartare ($22). Snacking to more substantial plates are taken into consideration, adding to the flexibility of the bar and its service next to Bistro Vue. Freshly shucked-to-order oysters and a classy selection of cocktails, including the White Negroni ($17), make for an experience that is assured and without fault. Attentive bartenders ensure that every need is met, exceeded and placed at the highest of importance. Such service is memorable and commendable, and — even better — highlights the impressive continuity between Shannon Bennett's other ventures. Bar Vue, although smaller in offering, is held in no less esteem than Cafe Vue, the Bistro or even Vue de Monde. For this, Bennett's food empire remains genuinely respected. For all of its French affectation, Bar Vue is a venue that remains truly iconic to Melbourne. An entertaining location to enjoy the finer pleasantries of life, it's a space to become your after-work regular or the ideal location for a more important occasion. An extravagance like no other, enjoy the impressive drinks list and hospitality at its absolute best.
In the hearts and minds of Marvel Cinematic Universe viewers, Chadwick Boseman will be Black Panther forever. In the upcoming sequel to 2018's excellent Black Panther, however, a new version of the hero is on its way. Thanks to the initial trailer for Black Panther: Wakanda Forever from back in July, Marvel already established that King T'Challa has passed away, his nation is in mourning and his absence is heavily felt — and in the just-dropped new sneak peek, that results in someone else donning the titular figure's suit. As for who that is, Wakanda Forever is keeping coy about the answer even in the new footage, although it's easy to take a few guesses. The latest trailer also keeps reckoning with another question that was always going to linger over this second effort, and will be solved in November when the film hits cinemas: how do you jump back into a superhero saga — a caped-crusader franchise within a sprawling, seemingly never-ending franchise, too — without your star? Given Boseman's death in 2020, this sequel obviously isn't the film that returning writer/director Ryan Coogler (Creed) initially intended, and an unsurprisingly emotional time awaits. That said, while the first sneak peek played up the sorrow across Wakanda — complete with a tribute to King T'Challa among its frames — the new Wakanda Forever glimpse sets an action-packed tone. Plot-wise, the story picks up with Queen Ramonda (Angela Bassett, Gunpowder Milkshake), Shuri (Letitia Wright, Death on the Nile), M'Baku (Winston Duke, Nine Days), Okoye (Danai Gurira, The Walking Dead) and the Dora Milaje (including Florence Kasumba, Deutschland89) charged with protecting their nation from world powers after T'Challa's death — with help from War Dog Nakia (Lupita Nyong'o, The 355) and Everett Ross (Martin Freeman, Breeders). But life on land isn't their only threat. Thanks to a hidden undersea nation called Talokan — and Namor (Tenoch Huerta, Narcos: Mexico), its king — Wakanda seems to have a pressing for a hero like Black Panther. Also among Wakanda Forever's cast: Michaela Coel (I May Destroy You) and Dominique Thorne (Judas and the Black Messiah), with the latter playing Riri Williams ahead of the character's solo Disney+ series Ironheart When the initial trailer dropped, Marvel revealed that Wakanda Forever will wrap up the MCU's phase four — because this ever-growing on-screen superhero world is broken up into different chapters. Obviously, more caped-crusader stories are still in the works, though, with the Disney-owned entertainment behemoth also plotting out its plans across phase five and phase six, taking it up to 2025. Check out the latest Black Panther: Wakanda Forever trailer below: Black Panther: Wakanda Forever releases in cinemas Down Under on November 10. Images: courtesy of Marvel Studios. © 2022 MARVEL.
Just a few weeks after Sydney copped that 'vote no' skywriting, it appears the campaign against marriage equality has again taken to the skies, with at least three potential anti-same-sex marriage messages scrawled above Melbourne this afternoon. This time around, whoever's in charge has opted simply for the word 'NO', written in huge block letters. While it was confirmed that the Sydney Skywriting Company — the only one of its kind in city — is owned by active members of the Australian Christian Lobby, it's unclear whether yes campaigners are up against a similar situation in Melbourne. And, admittedly, the 'no' could be directed towards homophobic protestors or people who don't like puppies. Well, we can hope. Whatever its intentions, 'no' seems like a bad vibe to place in the sky. In a counter move to Sydney's 'Vote No' skywriting, marriage equality supporters banded together to raise funds for a huge rainbow flag to be pulled by helicopter above Bondi Beach on October 1. Melbourne, take note.
Sick of the winter weather? Then escape from the chill to a warm, dark cinema, where you can watch movies from places even colder than here. Returning to Palace Cinema Como, Palace Westgarth, Palace Brighton Bay and The Astor, the Volvo Scandinavian Film Festival will once again showcase the best of Swedish, Danish, Finnish, Norwegian and Icelandic cinema, from award-winning dramas to esoteric comedies and the very best of Nordic Noir. One of the big highlights on this year's program is the Golden Globe-nominated The Fencer, a Finnish-German-Estonian co-production — dubbed by Finland Today as "the best Finnish film in a decade" — about a fencing instructor hiding from Soviet forces in Estonia in the years after the war. It's one of a number of critically-acclaimed titles in the program this year, alongside oddball Icelandic rom-com The Together Project which took home a screenplay prize at Cannes, and the excruciatingly tense Danish drama Land of Mine, which played in competition at the Sydney Film Festival earlier this year. For the complete Scandinavian Film Festival program, go here.
Cruising is a classic way to holiday. The stress-free system has you forgo most responsibilities in favour of fun, be it a two-week romp through the Pacific Islands or a midweek run up or down the Australian coastline, there's a leg of voyage suitable to any traveller. In the case of this ocean-bound writer, it was the latter, and I was in for an unfortunate surprise. Waking on day three of a five-day voyage on the Pacific Adventure to the sight of Moreton Island just out of reach, the passengers were informed that the small transfer boats would be unable to ferry us to the island due to rough seas. Would you believe the same thing happened on the last Moreton Island cruise I was on mere months earlier? I think that makes me uniquely qualified to answer this next question. What do you do on a cruise with no destination? Plan Ahead When Packing No matter how fine-tuned and considered your itinerary, the universe is unlikely to obey your wishes for the whole trip. When it comes to the weather, you should naturally be planning ahead. A good book is a must, plus headphones, a portable charger, sunglasses, a lanyard to carry around your cruise card and, probably most importantly, sea sickness medication. If the weather is bad enough for a shore visit to be cancelled, it means there's likely a large swell on the water. Everyone handles motion sickness differently, so a simple travel calm ginger might cut it, but if you need something stronger, the onboard medical centre stocks plenty of the good stuff. Make Use of the Onboard Itinerary The serious advantage of cruising is the fact that it's just as much about the journey as it is about the destination. In the case of a Moreton Island cruise from Sydney, you're scheduled for two full days at sea on either side of the shore stop. On our cruise, that became three full days at sea. Our itinerary adapted in a flash, with a fresh day of activities available to replace our cancelled stop by the time we'd finished breakfast. Exact activities vary on a ship-by-ship basis but almost all vessels share some similarities: pools, gyms, spas, theatres, arcades and lounges. You can choose to spend your time however you'd like, be it a visit to the spa, catching a comedy show or theatre act, or kicking back on the outer decks. Every night while you're at dinner, a new itinerary is left in your room for the following day. On board the Pacific Adventure, we kept our sea days busy with shopping and reading mostly. One evening was spent with In Pour Taste, a comedy show crossed with a wine tasting, helmed by Melbourne comedy duo Sweeney Preston and Ethan Cavanagh. The following day saw us hit the spa and the Byron Beach Club. Then on the final day, we took a cocktail mixing class and watched the wildly raucous Blanc De Blanc Uncorked cabaret show after dinner. Dine Differently Every Day You're massively spoiled for choice with dining while onboard a cruise ship. Buffet dining is typically the easiest choice for breakfast, with no extra cost and a great variety of dishes on offer. Come lunchtime, there are several options. The Pacific Adventure includes Luke's Burger Bar, which serves up the finest surf shack-style feeds you can get at sea. When day rolls into night, cruise ships open up multiple venues for dinner. In the case of Pacific Adventure, Waterfront Restaurant is a reliable go-to and Angelo's offers a fine-dining spin, as does Luke's Bar and Grill (the sibling of the burger bar, both created by restaurateur Luke Mangan). [caption id="attachment_967826" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Alec Jones[/caption] For more specific cuisines, there's a great mix of Italian dishes available at P&O Trattoria, or you can enjoy high-end Asian eats at Dragon Lady. Plus, since this is almost like a floating resort, you can always opt to stay in your room and order room service instead. Pacific Adventure is also home to 13 bars and nightclubs — from easily accessible spots like the Adventure Hotel (think quintessential Aussie pub but floating) to more out-of-the-way attractions like the onboard speakeasy The Bonded Store and Altitude Nightclub, where you can get a drink and have a boogie at the highest point on the whole vessel. Don't let naysayers dissuade you. A cruise with no destination is entirely survivable. Take it from us. Check any cynicism at the door (or gangplank, in this case), and you'll have a great time. In early 2025 P&O's Pacific Adventure, along with Pacific Encounter, will be integrating into the Carnival Fleet, becoming Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter. While sailing under new names both ships will continue to offer the same great holiday experience. Voyages from now until 2026 are available to book via pocruises.com.au. Concrete Playground was invited on the Sydney to Tangalooma cruise by the P&O Group. Images courtesy of the P&O Group.
Many are suspicious of the unbelievably cool couples who feature in The Kooples' ad campaigns, skeptical that these model-esque people are actually real-life lovers and not just two really ridiculously good looking (and stylish) people paired up for a photo. Let the French label's Alexandre Elicha and Nicolas Dreyfus clear that up. At the launch of The Kooples' photography exhibit Latitudes, Attitudes, we were assured that every couple in their campaigns and in the exhibit is the real deal. For the last weekend of VAMFF, Elicha and Dreyfus made their way to Melbourne to reveal an exhibition that not only celebrates real couples from around the world and their unique stories, but also The Kooples' iconic 'perfecto': the leather biker jacket that's been recreated and reimagined every season since the brand's debut in 2008. Latitudes, Attitudes looks beyond borders, transporting the iconic leather jacket across 14 locations via eight photographers and 15 encounters. Couples from all walks of life and at all ages feature with the perfecto in intimate snapshots lensed from Kentucky, USA to Iceland to Dakar, Senegal to Japan. The leather jacket contrasts with Moroccan cotton djellabas, Indian saris and Mongolian silk deel, and plays off of Mexican blue skies, Welsh gardens and Greek villages. Within the exhibit we meet many couples, young and old. There's Adonis (89) and Mairi (85), who were photographed by Patrick Swirc in Greece. Adonis looks like the original king of cool wearing the perfecto draped over his shoulders, black leather loafers and with a knotty wooden cane completing his look. Mairi stands serenely next to her hubby holding a frame shot of the two from back in the day. This is their tale: "Married for 67 years, they grew up in the same village in the Cyclades. He used to fetch water every morning from a spring near her home. One day, they ran off to get married in a neighbouring village." Next we meet Purevdorj (60) and Khandsuren (56), who were also photographed by Patrick Swirc in their yurt in Mongolia, plus Ndéye Diabou (28) and Djibril (25), who were snapped by Alexandre Guirkinger on "the black rocks of Yoff at the tip of the Cape Verde peninsula, near Dakar." The latter's story reads: "High school friends, she is now a journalist, he an IT engineer. His ambition is for her to pursue her career far from the coasts of Senegal. Yet what they love most of all are evenings spent together listening to music and dreaming of the farm they would like to build outside the capital." [caption id="attachment_613849" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Patrick Swirc, Alexandre Guirkinger[/caption] Lastly, we can't forget Nicholas (67) and Susan (71), the eccentric Welsh couple photographed by Rip Hopkins going against traditional gender roles. "They mischievously claim that in their marriage it is he who wears the skirt, and she the pants." [caption id="attachment_613838" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Simon Shiff[/caption] At our lunch with The Kooples, in addition to the exhibition's portraits and the accompanying stories of these global couples, it was also revealed the brand will be making its move into Myer in September 2017. This means that Sydney residents will finally get a chance to discover The Kooples' renowned London tailoring with Parisian elegance that will help you get that much closer to capturing the French je ne sais quoi of cool. See Latitudes, Attitudes on March 18 from 1pm to 5pm at the Murray White Room, Sargood Lane, Melbourne.
Chris Lucas is bringing his Asian-style cuisine to Fitzroy. The man behind Chin Chin, Baby Pizza and Hawker Hall purchased the property at 229 Smith Street earlier in the year, and has now unveiled his plans to transform the former ANZ Bank building into a second iteration of his popular Richmond Asian joint, Kong. Speaking to Concrete Playground, a spokesperson from the Lucas Group confirmed that the company would be taking over the venue around March, with the aim of opening towards the end of next year. Between this, their upcoming three story Japanese restaurant in Flinders Lane, and the launch of Chin Chin Sydney, it seems like they've got a busy year ahead of them. The Smith Street Kong will be overseen by chefs Shaun Presland (ex-Sake) and Kitak Lee (ex-Momofuku). The pair have already taken charge of revamping Kong's Richmond menu, putting more focus on Japanese-style dishes such as tuna tataki and crispy sashimi shells. According to the spokesperson, the new location will "carry along the Kong DNA," while also offering "more of a ramen-based, quick dining experience." The restaurant will also operate an all-day, late-night takeaway window on the Moore Street side. As for the interior, the plan is for Kong to "fit into the local area" with "a bit of a Northside feel," although the spokesperson stressed that they were still in the early stages of planning. They're also keeping mum about the restaurant's capacity and opening hours, so stay tuned for more information as it drops. Look for Kong at 229 Smith Street, Fitzroy towards the end of 2017. In the meantime, you can visit their original location at 599 Church Street, Richmond and stay up to date with new developments via Facebook.
Praise be, Handmaid's Tale fans — the iconic novel behind everyone's favourite dystopian TV series is getting a sequel. The Hulu-produced, Emmy-winning television show has already aired a second season, with a third due to hit next year. But now author Margaret Atwood is penning a printed follow-up to the 1985 book that started it all. Called The Testaments, it's set 15 years after Offred's final scene in the novel, and is narrated by three female characters. Fans will have to wait a bit for their return to Gilead, with the book releasing on September 10, 2019. While Atwood's original novel built a rich, immersive and oh-so-bleak world that's rife with sequel potential, that's not her only inspiration for The Testaments. Announcing the second effort on Twitter, Atwood noted that she's taking some cues from today's Handmaid's-like times. "Everything you've ever asked me about Gilead and its inner workings is the inspiration for this book. Well, almost everything! The other inspiration is the world we've been living in," Atwood said in the post. Given how scarily prescient the first book was, and how close to home it hit, that's hardly surprising. Just imagine what the Canadian writer will be able to dream up this time — or, if you don't want to fret about the state of the world, perhaps don't. Pre-orders are now open for The Testaments, if you're keen to get your red-cloaked mitts on it the moment it's available. We're betting that the new book will be a hot topic of conversation when Atwood visits Australia in March next year to chat about — what else? — dystopian futures. The Testaments is scheduled for released on September 10, 2019.
This weekend sees the return of another packed program for Open House Melbourne. If you're not familiar with the annual two-day event, it opens up some of the cities most iconic buildings, new structures and urban environments for the public to explore and appreciate. And with 73 of these buildings appearing on the program on the first time — you're set to be busy this weekend. Be the first to see the new Capitol Theatre fit out, go underground in a former explosives store or head to a historic cottage in the CBD which is now home to a gin distillery. With a massive 200 buildings open and 45 special events, talks and tours this 2019 schedule is a perfect curation for any lover of architecture, design and the history of Melbourne. While some sites and tours require bookings, a lot are free to drop by over the course of the weekend. We've sifted through the program and have pulled out five incredible spaces — that aren't booked out already — that you should sew while you've got the chance. [caption id="attachment_724595" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tatjana Plitt[/caption] CAPITOL THEATRE, CBD A highlight of the weekend will be the chance to check out the long-awaited refurbishment of RMIT's Capitol Theatre. After closing in 2014 for much needed renovations, the CBD building now showcases its recently renovated lounge, salon, foyer and theatre. The Chicago Gothic-style theatre's recognisable crystalline ceiling and spectacular lighting design has elevated this historic building's capabilities — and created a much-needed new space for modern and traditional theatre in the city. The theatre will be open for you to wander around from 10am–4pm on the Saturday, and guided tours led by Six Degrees Architects will run on the hour. Queues are expected. Find more here. [caption id="attachment_733715" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Trevor Mein[/caption] IAN POTTER SOUTHBANK CENTRE, SOUTHBANK Opening earlier this year, the Ian Potter Southbank Centre is the new home to the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music — and a new six-metre-wide oculus designed by John Wardle Architects. Don't miss seeing the 400 seat cantilevered auditorium in action with the chamber music program over the weekend. These 30-minute performances are free but bookings are essential to see the leading students from the Conservatorium of Music. Unfortunately, the guided tours for this event are all sold out — but you're still free to wander through the space on a self guided tour between 10am and 3.45pm on both days. You can also book in to a talk from the Director of Melbourne School of Design talking with one of the project architects about the challenges and opportunities creating such an iconic building. That's happening at 1.30pm on Sunday. Book into all IPSC events here. 17 CASSELDEN PLACE, CBD Previously run as a secret grog shop and a brothel, the historic cottage made from handmade red bricks and a slate roof is now home to the CBD's only distillery. Steeped in history, Little Lon is named after the infamous red light district that sat between Lonsdale, Spring, Exhibition and La Trobe Streets. The distillery site, in Casselden Place, is one of the few historic spaces that remain as most were destroyed in the 1950s. Little Lon will welcome all Open House Melbourne guests to come and see the site, take a tour of the distillery and try both gins and cocktails on Sunday from 11am–4.30pm. Find more info here. JACK'S MAGAZINE, MARIBYRNONG One of the more unique places on Open House Melbourne's 2019 program is Jack's Magazine, a former explosive store first opened in 1878. Set along the banks of the Maribyrnong River, the building is largely concealed, constructed behind a large bluestone perimeter wall on the hill. Decommissioned in the 1990s, Jack's Magazine is currently closed to the public. But, this weekend, you'll be able to take a rare tour of the hidden tunnels and tramways as you're led around the site's main buildings, including the vast gunpowder store. Something of a leftover from Melbourne's past, Jack's Magazine is a significant heritage building that's in the process of a revitalisation project. It'll be open on the Saturday from 10am–4pm with half-hour tours happening at 10am, 11.30am, 1pm and 2.30pm. Get more info here. [caption id="attachment_733777" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Trevor Mein[/caption] THE STABLES AND MARTYN MYER ARENA, SOUTHBANK The former Victoria Police Mounted Branch stables and riding school has been transformed into the home of the Victorian College of the Arts and Melbourne Conservatorium of Music. The Stables were officially reopened last year with a visual arts wing featuring new artist studios, exhibition spaces and offices. This weekend, you'll be able to take a self-guided tour to the unique octagonal roof and skylight and the multi-purpose Martyn Myer Arena. As a bonus, you'll also be the first to see the First Commissions exhibition at the Martyn Myer Arena, which showcases the work of 30 emerging artists from across the entire faculty. The artists have reinterpreted classic commissioned artworks from historic moments and recreated them with a modern perspective. The tours have already booked out, but the space will be open both days from 10am–3.45pm for you to take a walk through. Get the details here. Open House Weekend Melbourne will run over Saturday, July 27 and Sunday, July 28. Head to the website for event details and the full 2019 program.
Home to Werribee Mansion, the Victoria State Rose Garden and the Werribee Open Range Zoo, Werribee Park is already a pretty stunning patch of Melbourne. For 11 nights in December, however, it's playing host to an impressive light projection show — so you'll have a luminous new reason to head by. Called Blink, the event will focus in the work of local photographer David Mullins, which'll be used in quite the unique way. His portraits will be beamed onto the park's trees, using images of real-life folks from his Faces of Wyndham project. You'll be able to see them from 9pm–12am each evening from Thursday, December 10–Sunday, November 20, all for free. Bookings are required though — and if you'd like to arrange a picnic hamper to eat your way through while you're there, you can do that too. The Refectory Parlour's garden bar will also be open, and the zoo is doing evening sessions from 4–8pm on Fridays–Sundays. [caption id="attachment_791807" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Bob T via Wikimedia Commons[/caption]
A battle of the supermarkets looks set to blow up in Victoria as German retail giant Kaufland announces plans to open a whole swag of new stores across the southern state. Earlier this year, the chain revealed plans to drop a cool $459 million in initial investment on its first three Aussie stores, to be built in Dandenong, Chirnside Park and Epping. Now, Kaufland seems set on statewide supermarket domination, announcing two more confirmed stores in Oakleigh South and Coolaroo, with another nine Victorian sites still up for approval. The proposed locations include Coburg North, Narre Warren, Geelong, Bendigo, Pakenham, Braybrook, Lyndhurst, South Morang and Warrnambool. If it all gets the green light, the company would be dropping over half a billion dollars into Victoria alone. Launched in 1984 and now with 1200 European stores to its name, Kaufland is owned by the Schwarz Group — the world's fourth largest retailer. All of this plus its quick Aussie expansion means Kaufland could be a real threat to local retailers like Coles and Woolworths. Each Kaufland Australia site is pegged to be around 4000 square metres, featuring its own onsite butcher, bakery and bottle shop, and an assortment of adjacent small businesses — think, nail salons, sushi bars and cafes. Construction has already kicked off on the Dandenong store and a state-of-the-art distribution centre up in Mickleham. Clocking in at around 115,000 square metres — or the size of six MCGs — this latter building is set to be the largest of its kind in Australia. Victoria's not the only state Kaufland has its sights set on, either — the company has plans to open sites in Morayfield, Toowoomba and the Gold Coast in Queensland. Kaufland's schtick is offering a wide choice of Aussie produce, along with well-known brands and a new high-quality signature range, all at competitive prices. Kauflands are slated to open at Epping, Chirnside Park, Dandenong, Oakleigh South and Coolaroo. With nine more Victorian sites pending approval. We'll let you know as soon as dates are announced.
This July sees the return of another packed program from Open House Melbourne, even despite the current pandemic. If you're not familiar with the annual event, it opens up some of the city's most iconic buildings, new structures and urban environments for the public to explore and appreciate. And this year, it's all happening virtually. Eighty-eight buildings are included in this first-time digital program, which kicks off from July 16 and remains online until the end of August. Fire up that device and get ready to scope out architectural gems from all over the Melbourne region. A highlight of the program will be the chance to take a virtual tour through the grand expanse of Studley Park's Villa Alba — an 1880s Italianate mansion bearing some of this country's most significant examples of late nineteenth century decoration. Elsewhere, you can check out Australia's first truly contemporary mosque with a virtual visit to the Australian Islamic Centre, designed by Pritzker Architecture Prize–winning architect Glenn Murcutt. Or, catch a presentation on the fascinating construction of the iconic Sidney Myer Music Bowl. Or, peek inside the National Trust- and heritage-listed South Melbourne building that's home to The Australian Tapestry Workshop, featuring classic Victorian Free Gothic stylings by renowned local architect T.J Crouch. An online exhibition and guided virtual tour explores the history and future of the Montague area, now part of the Fisherman's Bend redevelopment, while the 1893-built Tay Creggan building — long home to Strathcona Girls Grammar's Year 9 campus — will play host to its own digital tour, sharing stories and designs by current students. Well-known structures like La Mama Theatre, Trades Hall, Lyon Housemuseum and Bunjil Place are just some of the many others opening their doors for virtual walk-throughs and close-up events over the coming weeks. [caption id="attachment_775300" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Villa Alba Museum by Russell Winnell[/caption] Top image: Australian Islamic Centre courtesy of AIC.
Throughout 2020, Australia's elected leaders have spent hours and hours addressing televised press conferences, all to update the country and its states and territories about the status of COVID-19 on our shores. But, despite all that time spent and all those words uttered by all those folks, there's one phrase that every Australian will always remember as peak 2020: "get on the beers". When Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews said those words back in March, at the beginning of the pandemic, he was telling people not to have their mates around for a few drinks just because bars and pubs were closing. It was important advice, but Premier Andrews couldn't have known just what he had unleashed — or that we'd all be echoing and even singing his words for months to come. In April, Mashd n Kutcher turned the statement into a song — because making a tune out of a government caution is also peak 2020. Now, in Melbourne, a few folks have decided that a mere track isn't enough. So, they've taken inspiration from the single for their Christmas lights. At two separate houses — on Grange Road in Sandringham and Gillepse Road in Kings Park — festive displays brighten up the December night. As a soundtrack, Mashd n Kutcher's track blares Premier Andrews' words, too. At the latter location, you'll also 'get on the beers' pop up in text as part of the lights, taking the tribute to 2020's number-one phrase up yet another notch. Unsurprisingly, both sites have been proving popular — and the Grange Road house is using the attention to raise money for the National Breast Cancer Foundation. Thanks to social media, you don't need to be in Melbourne to check them out, of course. You can watch videos of both displays below — and start thinking about how 2021's lights can possibly top them. https://twitter.com/GordyPls/status/1340944007652753411 https://twitter.com/GordyPls/status/1340895946255679488 Melburnians can check out the Daniel Andrews-themed Christmas lights at Grange Road, Sandringham and 108 Gillespe Road, Kings Park. Top image: Grange Road Christmas Lights.
For Mornington Peninsula locals and regular holiday blow-ins, the Sorrento corner store and cafe known as Stringers is as much an institution as the recently revamped Continental across the road. And now, just like its neighbour, this historic site has scored a head-to-toe makeover, out to capture a fresh generation of seaside winers and diners. Stringers has been resurrected by The Darling Group (Higher Ground, Kettle Black, Top Paddock), with the Melbourne-based hospitality crew this month completing a full restoration of the building. It's seen various incarnations over the decades, but its latest role is as an all-day restaurant, pizzeria, bar and providore that aims to be a year-round go-to. [caption id="attachment_861875" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Griffin Simm[/caption] The space is rocking a breezy, coastal style with big Mediterranean energy, courtesy of designer Chris Connell. You'll find a sunny courtyard with street access, a custom woodfired pizza oven imported from Verona in the kitchen, and downstairs, a subterranean wine cellar stocked with rare and high-end drops. By day, you're in for cafe-style plates with a familiar Darling Group lean — a berry-topped ricotta hotcake, breakfast salad, chilli scrambled eggs teamed with flatbread and goat's curd, and the smoked salmon open omelette with caviar and creme fraiche. At lunch and dinner, you might find yourself digging into lobster rolls stuffed with iceberg and chilli mayo; rotisserie chook or grilled crayfish to share; or a fresh pasta like the salted ricotta and lamb ragu pappardelle. [caption id="attachment_861867" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Earl Carter[/caption] Meanwhile, pizzas nod to Napoli, crafted traditionally on dough that's fermented and proofed for 72 hours. Try toppings like salami with pickled peppers and red onion, or a decadent four-cheese number. To match, a broad drinks offering carries happily from aperitivo hour to after-dinner cocktails. And for those on the go, Stringers' sleek providore, deli, grocer and gelateria are sure to be a hit, slinging everything from grab-and-go bites to pantry staples. [caption id="attachment_861874" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Griffin Simm[/caption] Find Stringers at 2-8 Ocean Beach Road, Sorrento. Currently, the providore is open from 7am–5pm daily, with the restaurant and bar open from 8am–4pm daily. Dinner service is set to kick off shortly. Top Images: Griffin Simm and Earl Carter
Australians, if you thought you had a lot of food delivery options at your fingertips before, consider yourself even more spoilt for choice now. DoorDash, the US's biggest on-demand food platform for door-to-door delivery, has arrived Down Under, taking on Melbourne, Geelong and Sydney in its first expansion outside of North America. Thousands of restaurants are set to jump on board as DoorDash rolls out its platform locally. And yes, that means dinnertime decision-making just got a little more interesting. Which can't be a bad thing, given that stats show a lot of us — two million of us to be exact — use meal delivery services at lease once every three months. Even more so now, with many Australians practising social-distancing or self-isolating in a bid to slow the spread of COVID-19. During the COVID-19 pandemic, DoorDash has introduced no-contact delivery (and will leave your food at the front door) and is waiving delivery fees for a heap of restaurants, so they can generate a little more money in these uncertain times. Big-name restaurant brands available on the delivery service in Melbourne include Betty's Burgers and Nando's, along with a diverse spread of well-loved local eateries like Red Sparrow Pizza, Le Bon Ton, Huxtaburger. In Sydney, you can order from the likes of Grill'd, Restaurant Moon, Huxtaburger, Lukumades, Mr Crackles and Thirsty Bird. The app works much the same as competitors, like UberEats and Deliveroo, though it also has a 'pick-up' and 'group ordering' options — the latter making it a lot easier to coordinate big groups. DoorDash is by no means new to the game. Having launched back in 2013, it now operates in over 4000 cities across all 50 states of the USA and Canada. If you're keen to check out the new service, DoorDash is currently offering free delivery for a heap of restaurants. The DoorDash delivery platform is now available in Melbourne, Geelong and Sydney over at doordash.com. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
If you're lucky enough to score tickets to Meredith Music Festival in any year via the event's ballot, one of Australia's best fests awaits no matter the lineup. 2025's roster of acts is characteristically impressive, however. On the bill: TV on the Radio, Atarashii Gakko! and Perfume Genius, for starters, as well as Thee Sacred Souls, Pa Salieu, HAAi, Bar Italia, Colin Hay and Mildlife. And, there's still more where the came from. Folk Bitch Trio, Saya Gray, RONA. and Omar Souleyman are on the lineup, too. So are Dames Brown, Radio Free Alice, Sam Austins RP Boo, Wax'o Paradiso, Florist and Jack J. Add in Drifting Clouds, Dr Sure's Unusual Practice, Central Australian Aboriginal Women's Choir, Mouseatouille, Brown Spirits and Lazy Susan on MC duties, and expect a jam-packed three days across Friday, December 5–Sunday, December 7, 2025. [caption id="attachment_1017125" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Chip Mooney[/caption] How is the fest crew describing this year's event? "One of the best places on earth to spend a weekend, the Meredith Supernatural Amphitheatre has been natured and nurtured and then natured again, for the singular purpose of hosting the time of your life," organisers advise. So, expect "a permanent and purpose-built underground wunderland that provides optimal conditions for rarefied reverie", as well as to get "lost in music, lost in one another, for three days and two nights of Sup'ed up saucery". [caption id="attachment_1017126" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sumner Dilworth[/caption] Meredith Music Festival 2025 Lineup TV on the Radio Atarashii Gakko! Perfume Genius Thee Sacred Souls Pa Salieu HAAi Bar Italia Colin Hay Mildlife Folk Bitch Trio Saya Gray RONA. Omar Souleyman Dames Brown Radio Free Alice Sam Austins RP Boo Wax'o Paradiso Florist Jack J Drifting Clouds Dr Sure's Unusual Practice Central Australian Aboriginal Women's Choir Mouseatouille Brown Spirits Lazy Susan Top images: Leah Hulst, Cody Critcheloe.
A decade ago, Melburnians gained a new spot to see a movie. Elsternwick's Classic Cinemas and Belgrave's Cameo Cinemas also scored a sibling venue in Hawthorn. When Lido Cinemas opened in mid-2015, it did so by resurrecting the space that was home to the Glenferrie Theatre six decades prior, leaning into the boutique experience and also looking upwards, with sky-high setup Lido on the Roof showing films under the stars when the weather is warm. Lido Cinemas launched by offering $5 tickets for a day, too. Consider the picture palace's just-announced ten-year celebrations a blast from the past, then. To mark a decade of screening flicks to film fans, the Glenferrie Road venue is doing discounts, bringing back that $5 deal for a whole week. If you catch a movie between Thursday, August 7–Wednesday, August 13, 2025 — other than attending special events — that price is all that you'll pay. More discounts apply if you're keen for something to eat or drink: there'll be $5 choc tops, plus $10 medium combos featuring popcorn and a drink. That means that you can get your film and snacks covered for less than the cost of a ticket at Lido's regular prices. If you're thinking that it's the cinema's birthday but film lovers are the ones getting the presents, you're right. Here's another: a ten-year anniversary retrospective season across the week that's fittingly playing ten films from the past decade that Lido has been operating, all of which will only cost $5 to see (and every one of them is exceptional). 2015 is the year that not only Lido launched, but that the world gained the Australian sci-fi/action spectacular that is Mad Max: Fury Road, so of course George Miller's fourth title in the franchise — and the movie that sparked 2024's Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga — is on the lineup. Then, 2016's pick covers a feature that will always be remembered for its Oscars glory, no matter the mixup announcing its win as Best Picture: Moonlight from director Barry Jenkins (Mufasa: The Lion King). From 2017, the program boasts a yearning dose of Timothée Chalamet (A Complete Unknown), and its first of two Luca Guadagnino (Queer) flicks, via Call Me By Your Name. 2018's selection goes with horror thanks to Ari Aster's (Eddington) unnerving debut Hereditary, while 2019's Portrait of a Lady on Fire from Céline Sciamma (Petite Maman) is another title on the program to swoon over. Rachel Sennott (Saturday Night)- and Molly Gordon (The Bear)-starring comedy Shiva Baby is 2020's choice, then Joachim Trier's (Sentimental Value) Renate Reinsve (Presumed Innocent)-led The Worst Person in the World from 2021. Paul Mescal (Gladiator II) makes an appearance on the lineup thanks to Charlotte Wells' Aftersun, the film that earned him a Best Actor Oscar nomination, as 2022's pick. Finally, two very different love triangles — 2023's Past Lives from Materialists' helmer Celine Song, and 2024's Challengers starring Zendaya and helmed by Guadagnino — round out the bill. [caption id="attachment_1014611" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Gavin John[/caption] Find Lido Cinemas at 675 Glenferrie Road, Hawthorn — with the cinema's tenth-birthday celebrations, including its $5 tickets and ten-year anniversary retrospective season, running from Thursday, August 7–Wednesday, August 13, 2025. Head to the venue's website for tickets and more information. Top image: Gavin John.
Doing your bit for the environment has never looked quite so good as it does with Frank Green's colourful range of reusable cups. The durable containers are not only helping to quash Australia's single-use coffee cup waste problem, they're also super stylish and beautifully designed. And you've got the perfect excuse to add a couple to your collection (or someone else's) with Frank Green's storewide 20 percent off sale this weekend. From Friday, November 27 until Monday, November 30 you'll be able to treat yourself, a friend or your family to a stylish and sustainable cup on the cheap. Frank Green's entire catalogue — apart from sale items and gift cards — is on sale and there's something for everyone. You'll find the core reusable cup and bottle range featuring the brand's recognisable pastel colour palette and in-built tap-to-pay feature, as well as the Sustainable Sips range of tea, coffee and the new ceramic french press. If you're looking for holiday presents for the kids or your nieces and nephews, Frank Green also has a range of Disney and Minions cups and bottles. The pastel yellow Winnie the Pooh cup is so adorable you might end up getting it for yourself. Plus, $1 from every order will be donated to Reforest Now, an organisation that grows and plants trees in subtropical Australia. You'll be saving the planet in more ways than one. [caption id="attachment_792088" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kate Shanasy[/caption] FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
UPDATE: THURSDAY, JULY 16: The Parking Lot Social has been postponed. No official tickets have been sold for the event. Drive-in cinemas have long been a part of the movie-going landscape, but they've been experiencing a resurgence in popularity due to COVID-19. In fact, the whole drive-in concept is proving a go-to way to keep folks entertained in this time of social distancing, with the idea expanded to live gigs as well. That's just the beginning, it seems. Thanks to The Parking Lot Social, the drive-in premise now encompasses huge parties too. When the new Australian event rolls around the country between July and September, attendees will sit in their cars, sing karaoke (well, 'car-a-oke', as it's being called), dance at a silent disco, play trivia and bingo, and laugh at standup comedy — and watch flicks, see live bands and grab a bite to eat from food trucks as well. Basically, the event mashes up of a whole heap of entertaining pastimes, combining them in one place while complying with physical-distancing measures. Weekend evenings will have an in-car party vibe, while movies will screen late to folks kicking back in their vehicles. Plus, there'll be separate dedicated midweek nights for films and comedy. The brainchild of the folks behind Big Bounce Australia, aka the world's largest inflatable theme park, The Parking Lot Social will also feature two 12-metre-tall big-screens, a huge stage, a 16-metre-tall fire hydrant that shoots rainbows and inflatable gorillas. Exactly where in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide and Canberra all of the above will be popping up hasn't yet been disclosed; however it'll do so in venues in that can accommodate 250 cars each evening. Ticket costs haven't been announced yet either, nor has the music, movie and comedy lineup. That said, The Parking Lot Social has revealed that it will settle in for multiple nights at every stop, and that it'll also feature an all-ages 'Social Kids' event for families as well. THE PARKING LOT SOCIAL 2020 DATES Sydney — July 9–19 Melbourne — July 23–August 2 Brisbane — August 6–16 Canberra — August 20–30 Adelaide — September 3–13 The Parking Lot Social tours Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide and Canberra between July 9–September 13. For further information, or to register for early-bird tickets, visit the event's website.
For 66 years, humanity has been blessed by Jeff Goldblum's company. For a whopping 45 years, we've been lucky enough to enjoy his big-screen presence, too. It's impossible to have a bad time when you're watching the beloved actor, staring into his piercing eyes, listening to his distinctive vocal patterns and marvelling over how tall he is — no matter what he's in. Thankfully, he's been in plenty. While he'll always be Dr Ian Malcolm to dinosaur-loving movie fans everywhere, old Goldie has played a blue alien in Earth Girls Are Easy, turned into an insect in exceptional body-horror classic The Fly, and tried to save the world from aliens in Independence Day. He's unleashed his psychic powers with Cyndi Lauper in Vibes, romanced Emma Thompson in the Richard Curtis-penned The Tall Guy, headed out to sea in The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou and overseen a garbage planet in Thor: Ragnarok, too. And if you're thinking that all of these flicks sound like the perfect Goldblum Marathon, then you're both completely spot-on and on the Melbourne International Film Festival's wavelength. After paying tribute to Nicolas Cage last year, MIFF is once again joining forces with The Astor Theatre to celebrate another movie legend with an overnight session of seven back-to-back flicks. It all happens from 11.30pm on Friday, August 9, running through until around midday on Saturday — and if you want to try to laze around like Goldblum in Jurassic Park, we're guessing that no one will stop you. General public tickets go on sale Friday, July 12.
