In the mood to stretch those legs, boost endorphins and dose up on some Mother Nature? Well, thanks to Melbourne's top-notch location, you can do all of the above without venturing too far out of the city. Flanked by loads of scenic coastline, beautiful bushland and rugged mountains, we're lucky enough to have a plethora of idyllic walking options in and around our own backyard. From a stunning coastal trek on the Mornington Peninsula to waterfall wanderings through dense rainforest, we've rounded up ten of the best walking trails within a short drive from Melbourne. So, lace up those shoes, stretch out the quads and take a hike. Recommended reads: The Best Walks Around Metro Melbourne The Best Coastal Walks Near Melbourne The Best Mountain Walks Near Melbourne The Best One-Day Hikes Near Melbourne Werribee Gorge, Werribee Gorge State Park If you're up for a bit of a challenge and are willing to forgo flat earth in favour of some breathtaking views, Werribee Gorge State Park offers a smorgasbord of primo hiking opportunities. About an hour's drive northwest of Melbourne, the rugged setting makes for both a striking outlook and plenty of heart-pumping, mountain goat-style exercise. There's a handful of different walks to choose here, but the full 10-kilometre Circuit Walk delivers the biggest serve of wilderness, taking about 4.5 hours to complete. It's best done anti-clockwise, starting from the Meikles Point picnic area and moving along the gorge rim for some gorgeous panoramas. The rocky patches can prove tough and things get extra slippery following rain, so don't skimp on your footwear choice. You'll also find one of the top rivers for swimming near Melbourne along this walk — if you want to float around with some wild platypuses on a hot day. How far? 1-hour drive. Sherbrooke Falls Trail, Dandenong Ranges National Park Putting you up close and personal with melodic lyrebird calls, centuries-old trees and splashing waterfalls, this walk is a must for all nature lovers. And it's especially ideal for those wanting to explore some of the Dandenong Ranges' beauty, while avoiding the crowds (and intense incline) of the nearby 1000 Steps Kokoda Track Memorial Walk. Boasting relatively flat terrain through lush rainforest, the Sherbrooke Falls Trail runs 1.2 kilometres each way, linking the Sherbrooke Picnic Ground with the idyllic Sherbrooke Falls. It's a vision of green, resplendent with leafy ferns, plenty of the area's famed Mountain Ash and some of the tallest flowering hardwood in the world. Keep an eye out for wombats and swamp wallabies, and listen in to hear tunes from the resident lyrebirds, especially during the winter mating season. How far? 1-hour drive. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Visit Victoria[/caption] Keppel Lookout Trail, Marysville Venture northeast of Melbourne to gorgeous Marysville and prepare to soak up some raw nature and unbelievable views on the Keppel Lookout Trail. Starting and finishing at the car park on Falls Road, this wild 11-kilometre bush loop is ideal for adventurous types, featuring plenty of steep inclines, stringybark forest and uneven terrain. But in reward, you'll get to stop by four of the area's most legendary lookouts, beginning with some sweeping sights from atop Keppel Lookout. Then, climb around the ridge before trekking down the length of Steavenson Falls, which are some of the highest waterfalls in Victoria. The whole hike will likely take you three to four hours — depending on how long you stop for photography breaks along the way, of course. How far? 2.5-hour drive. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Visit Victoria[/caption] Capital City Trail, Inner Melbourne Perhaps Melbourne's ultimate urban walking track, the Capital City Trail delivers a 29-kilometre loop around the CBD and inner-northeast suburbs, linking plenty of other popular routes along the way. For a tourist-style adventure, start at Federation Square and wander east along Birrarung Marr, before passing the iconic MCG. You'll cruise by the Yarra River through Burnley, curve north to swing past the historic Abbotsford Convent and then take a jaunt through suburbia across to Melbourne Zoo. The last leg of the trail heads south through Docklands and back along Southbank. It's a mostly flat and easy walk, plus there are loads of great coffee stops to be found along its length. Try the long-running Top Paddock in Richmond, or Carlton North favourite Park Street. And, if you want to go further (faster), get on your bike. This is one of the best cycling paths in Melbourne too. How far? In metro Melbourne, start anywhere along the track. Bushrangers Bay Track, Mornington Peninsula If you're partial to some stunning coastline, wild bushland and secluded beach, the Bushrangers Bay Track is sure to impress. Located on the lower tip of the Mornington Peninsula, this 2.6-kilometre jaunt kicks off from the historic Cape Schanck lighthouse, winding alongside basalt cliff tops and through wildlife-filled banksia groves. You're in for million-dollar ocean views from the top, so be sure to leave yourself plenty of time to soak it all up. A final steep descent then unfolds onto Bushrangers Bay beach, where there are lots of rugged rock pools to explore. The journey back up is a little less forgiving, though the scenery is definitely worth the burn. It's clear to see why this is also one of the top coastal walks near Melbourne, too. How far? 1.5-hour drive. [caption id="attachment_923298" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nicky Cawood for Visit Victoria[/caption] Toorongo Falls, Noojee Standing beside the cascading waters of the majestic Toorongo Falls, you can bet you're in for a serious wow moment. Surrounded by soaring gum trees and rainforest ferns, these two famously photogenic falls tumble spectacularly down into Toorongo River, giving a glimpse of Mother Nature's best side. To get there, an easy 750-metre walking track passes through dense bushland from the Toorongo Falls Reserve carpark, with resident critters like brushtail possums and sugar gliders offering the odd wildlife sighting. You can even bump up your step count to complete an extended 2.2-kilometre loop, incorporating a visit to the smaller, but equally delightful, Amphitheatre Falls. It's no wonder why this is one of the best hikes near Melbourne. How far? 2.5-hour drive. [caption id="attachment_770319" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Parks Victoria[/caption] Razorback Walk, Cathedral Ranges State Park A whopping 3,577 hectares of rugged wilderness just begging to be explored? It's safe to say Cathedral Range State Park makes for one heck of a local hiking destination. Two hours out of Melbourne, it's home to a whole swag of climbing sites, picnic spots and walking trails, including the adventurous Razorback Walk. Best tackled with good shoes and a bit of experience under your belt, this 2.4-kilometre stretch weaves through thick bushland and over rocky terrain to the majestic Sugarloaf Peak. It's tough going but worth the push — the panoramic scenes that await you at the top are next-level. Got a bit more time up your sleeve? Extend your trek to cover the whole 10.5-kilometre Cathedral Range Southern Circuit. How far? 2-hour drive. [caption id="attachment_923299" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cam Rosin for Visit Victoria[/caption] East-West Walk, You Yangs Regional Park Translating to 'big hill' in local Woiwurrung language, the You Yangs is a famous volcanic rock formation located right in between Melbourne and Geelong, surrounded by walking trails to suit a range of fitness levels. Best hiked in a clockwise direction, the East-West Walk circumnavigates the site's tallest mountain, Flinders Peak, taking you amongst granite-flecked inclines and towering eucalypts. It's a bush-bashing 4.5-kilometre loop that starts and finishes at Turntable Carpark in the park's south. And while you'll encounter plenty of pulse-quickening, steep bits along the way, the dreamy views across Western Victoria's volcanic plains make the sore quads worth the effort. It's also one of the top hiking spots to take your dog with you in Victoria. How far? 1-hour drive. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brook James[/caption] Merri Creek Trail, Inner-North Melbourne For a relaxed trek through the best of inner-north suburbia, get your kicks on the well-trodden Merri Creek Trail. This one stretches 21 kilometres between Dights Falls and the Western Ring Road at Fawkner, with a variety of bush, creek and parkland sights to spy along the way. You'll walk past horse paddocks, scenic lookouts, tree-filled reserves and wide open spaces galore. Pooches are also allowed to join in the fun on this walk, as long as they stay on-leash. If the weather's decent, pack a picnic — there are scores of leafy locations to throw down a rug and give those feet a rest. And a stop-in at CERES Community Environmental Park is always a top idea, for chook sightings, plant purchases and a feed. How far? 20-min drive. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Visit Victoria[/caption] Erskine River Walk, Great Otway National Park If you want to go against popular advice and do go chasing waterfalls (sorry, TLC), Great Otway National Park is the place to do it. Enjoying some of the biggest rainfall in the state, the site is home to loads of stunning natural water features, including the impressive 30-metre-tall Erskine Falls. This beauty is also the launch (or finish) point for the Erskine River Walk — a 7.5-kilometre rainforest adventure that'll send you clambering through ferns, alongside bubbling water and over the odd log bridge. Keep an eye out for wildlife and treat yourself to a breather as you admire the natural amphitheatre known as the Sanctuary. Around two hours of brisk stepping will land you at the Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park. Hiking in the rainforest is one of the top things to do when visiting Victoria's surf coast. Note: this one's best to avoid after heavy rains, due to the number of river crossings. How far? 2-hour drive. Top image: Cathedral Range State Park
Melbourne has no shortage of minimalistic spots for breakfast and brunch, but West Melbourne's Japanese gem, 279, has got to be one of our very favourites. Despite some of its similarities to the city's many (many) cafes, 279 owner Kantaro Okada has done a lot to stand out amongst the local crowd. "One of the biggest reasons we chose West Melbourne was because of the lack of Japanese food options in this area," says Okada. "But the area does have a really interesting pocket of cafes — so I feel it will attract people who love food." Although the interior of the cafe is clean and light, the menu is hearty and traditional — and definitely not 'fusion'. "I really don't like doing fusion," says Okada. "We wanted to focus on home cooking and Japanese soul food that has been passed down through generations." The result of that is a menu that centres on onigiri (also called omusubi): triangles of rice wrapped in nori and served with a variety of toppings. Try out the classic miso (shiso-miso, $6), salted salmon (sha-ke, $5.80) or plum (ume, $5) for something on the lighter side. But if you're hungrier, the slow-cooked pork belly with ginger, garlic and spring onion (negi-shio, $14.80) and the smashed tuna with avocado and Japanese mayonnaise (negi-toro, $18) will both knock your socks off. Once you've ordered your onigiri, add some osozai (side dishes) — our top picks are the smashed tofu with shiitake and shimeji mushrooms ($5), the sweet soy glazed potato ($6) and the fried lotus root chips ($4.50). If you don't want rice, you can opt for one of three types of miso soup (kome, mugi and hiyoko mame, $6–6.50), which are individually strained through a specially designed 'pour over-style' machine to ensure each bowl is rich in flavour and smooth in texture, with no grainy mouthfeel. Still peckish? 279 also has a range of Japanese sweets on offer — most notably, its mochinuts ($6). A cross between mochi and doughnuts, these baked goods are made with tapioca and rice flour, which gives them a springy, slightly chewy texture. To get one, though, you'll need to get there early — they're usually sold out by lunchtime. Other sweet options include the roasted matcha tiramisu ($11) and the latte dorayaki pancake ($6.50). Like the food, the coffee is strictly Japanese. Sit at one of the countertops — drowning in morning light — and order a coffee made on Fuglen Tokyo beans, which are imported straight from the capital. 279 might look a little plain from the outside, but this authentic Japanese café serves up a huge spread of alternative brunch options. Don't be overwhelmed by dishes that might seem unfamiliar to you, either. It's all good. Trust us. Pick a bunch to share with your mates and enjoy the ride. If you can't manage to get a table at 279, you can also order many dishes to be delivered here. Appears in: The 13 Best Cafes in Melbourne for 2023
Melbourne is no stranger to a bakery/cafe hybrid that serves up daily brunch dishes, but Faraday's Cage in Fitzroy has got to be one of the greatest. As it is a local bakery, many come for the fresh sourdough and sweet and savoury pastries alongside a really decent selection of takeaway sangas that change on the daily. But Faraday's takes it one big step further with its mighty fine all-day breakfast menu. First off, you've got the decadent ricotta hotcakes ($19.50) served with rich brown butter, a yuzu crème, maple caramel, roast chocolate, grapefruit, blueberries and lemon balm — it's got the lot and is a dish for an ambitiously hungry eater with a sweet tooth. The savoury brekkie options don't disappoint either. Get around a harissa-spiced shakshuka ($19.50), the Turkish crumbed eggplant ($20) with confit garlic labneh, za'atar, fried shallots, 12-hour roast tomato and two poached eggs, as well as the beloved Faraday's Cage chicken katsu sandwich ($20). Can't decide on just one dish? Your answer is right there written on the menu. The 'Can't decide breakfast board' ($25) comes with a whole selection of mini dishes including the granola, avocado on toast, croissant and the crumbed eggplant. The expert baristas will pour your favourite coffee with beans supplied by the one and only Proud Mary, so you know who to thank for your caffeine fix. Appears in: The 13 Best Cafes in Melbourne for 2023 Where to Find the Best Breakfast in Melbourne for 2023
If you've ever fancied a freshly cut and grilled steak at 3am on a Tuesday, Butchers Diner is one to add to your late-night list. The CBD diner serves up a full menu right up until midnight five days a week. Beginning as a storage space and deboning room for owner Con Christopoulos' nearby restaurant The European, the venue quickly realised its potential. The menu is made up of diner classics heavy on the meat, both because of the diner's initial purpose and the fact that both chefs are also butchers. Take the Coney Island chilli dog, the steak and eggs or the house-made blood sausage and devilled egg roll. If you're walking past and can't hack a full meal, grab a duck heart skewers to take away or a see vine of poutine. It also does dessert, making it a prime spot for post-dinner pop-in, including a sticky date pudding and tiramisu. It's a simple concept, but it's been well thought out — and it fills a gap for late night dining at the top end of the CBD.
Stuck indoors and feeling blue? We don't blame you. So let us remind you of one of the best shortcuts to lifting your mood: music. Sure, it's not a particularly groundbreaking cure, but in these strange times, we've gotta grasp onto whatever small things will bring us joy (if only temporarily). We could launch into a lofty explanation as to why music is so important to us, relationships and culture, but that's probably not what you're here for. You're here because you're stuck at home and missing live music — the excitement when you find out a new artist you just discovered is playing at a local bar or the giddy anticipation as you walk into a huge concert arena or festival. Those times will come again. In the meantime, we're making do with gigs that are a bit more casual — so low-key in fact that you don't even need to wear shoes. Or even pants (just remember to shut the blinds). This year, we've teamed up with Miller Design Lab to showcase visionary musicians, designers and artists and celebrate our nightlife and its impact on culture to provide a safe space for creativity and self-expression. Grab a beer or make yourself a quarantini and get ready to boogie to some quarantunes (sorry). ARTISTS SUPPORTING ARTISTS Musician Milan Ring is one of the innovative artists to collaborate with Miller Design Lab this year. She's been making waves in the Aussie music industry for some time, having performed alongside names like Sampa the Great, Hermitude and The Rubens, and is currently working on her debut album. As a rapper, lyricist, guitarist and mastering engineer, her dynamic sound is best described as multifaceted — think elements of R&B, soul, electro and even reggae. So, it's safe to say that Milan's influences are pretty varied — and she certainly has her finger on the pulse when it comes to fresh sounds. Giving us a taste of what she's into right now, Milan recently created an extensive playlist that is jam-packed with the musical talent you should be listening to (if you don't already). Simply titled Friends, the playlist swings from the soulful sounds of Ngaiire and Silentjay to Arnhem Land rapper (and former Young Australian of the Year) Baker Boy, and is ideal for one of those lazy afternoons that ramp up to full-blown house party mode. CHALLENGE YOUR MATES TO A DANCE-OFF ON HOUSEPARTY Just because nights out are off the cards for a while doesn't mean your social life needs to go on hold, too. Hopefully, by now, you and your mates have video conference hangouts down pat and you've probably had some surprisingly fun nights indoors shooting the breeze and playing trivia. Next time, kick that competitive spirit up a notch with a good ol' fashioned dance-off. Turn your respective living rooms into your very own dance floors, stream the same playlist and show off your best moves — you'll think you're all at your favourite inner city bar together in no time. When it comes to picking the beats, everyone knows the best dance battle beats are those from your youth. This playlist, curated by British author, journalist and co-host of the pop culture podcast The High Low Dolly Alderton, delivers the goods. Aptly dubbed Pandemic at the Disco, it features a bunch of mostly 90s and 00s bangers, including 'Jump Around', 'No Diggity' and 'Work It'. Alternatively, check out Miller Genuine Draft's playlist, It's Miller Time, which features tunes from Mark Ronson, Lizzo and Bastille. LISTEN TO WHAT WE'RE LOVING Our mission at Concrete Playground is to guide you through the best cultural happenings across Australia. Usually, that includes outdoor adventures, electrifying gigs, epic art exhibitions and the latest restaurant and bar openings. Right now, we're focused on finding ways to bring those experiences to you, so your nights (and days) spent at home are anything but dull. And that includes new music. We can't point you in the direction of a local gig to check out, so we've created a playlist of what we're listening to during lockdown instead. This carefully curated list features some of our favourite Aussie musicians and it includes plenty of up-and-coming artists to fall in lyrical love with. Support them now by giving them a listen and perhaps donating to Spotify's COVID-19 Music Relief Project. Then, when lockdown's over you can get out and support them in person. PRETEND YOU'RE IN A EUROPEAN NIGHTCLUB Whether you've had to cancel a big trip to Europe this year or you're reminiscing a past vacation, a night spent imagining that you're tearing up a dance floor in a dark and sweaty European club will help you momentarily forget that it may be a while till you're actually able to travel again. To help create the vibes, crack out your disco ball or strobe machine, pop on the boating hat from that time you sailed around Croatia and head over to Boiler Room's Youtube channel. The platform has launched the Streaming From Isolation series, featuring sets from the likes of Berlin-based house and techno DJ Dixon and English electronic duo Disclosure. Most of the sets go for around an hour, but if you're in it for the long haul, check out DJ EZ's epic set that went for a whopping 24 hours. This is the second time the UK garage legend has done a marathon set (the first was back in 2016 for Cancer Research UK). He also recently pledged his fees for the festival gigs he did in Sydney, Melbourne and Auckland earlier this year to bushfire relief — what a guy. IMAGINE YOU'RE AT A REAL-LIFE GIG We get it. Going to a gig is about much more than just the very good music. The lights, the graphics, the on-stage dancers and the crowds of people singing and dancing alongside you are all part of what makes a concert such an amazing (and addictive) experience. And, by the sounds of things, large-scale concerts are likely to be one of the last things to return as we transition out of lockdown life. While you wait, you can stream some epic productions online — and they don't get much more epic than the shows at the Sydney Opera House. While the institution is closed to the public, it's continuing to deliver its stable of quality cultural content via a free digital program, which includes full-length performances, talks, podcasts and behind-the-scenes content. You can witness (or relive) the magic of The Flaming Lips' technicolour Concert Hall performance for the 20th anniversary of The Soft Bulletin, Solange's 2018 Vivid Live gig, Bon Iver's 2016 Vivid Live gig or Missy Higgin's full 2019 Live from the Forecourt concert. For something a little different, there is also Sydney Symphony Orchestra's performance of Mahler's Das klagende Lied and the Sydney International Orchestra's stellar collaboration concert with singer Sarah Blasko. For more ways to celebrate your city's nightlife and recreate its energy in your own space, head this way.
Melbourne loves rooftops. There’s something about getting above it all, isn’t there? Looking out across the city and being King or Queen of all you survey. So it really doesn’t get any better when you can start your day in a lofty kind of way with breakfast on a rooftop. Santoni’s rooftop, that is. Santoni first opened as a pizza bar in the heart of Hawthorn in 2007. Run by Peter Koutroulis, and sons Michael and Anthony, they started on the ground level and have since worked their way up after securing the entire three-level Victorian terrace building in 2014. First, they opened a modern Italian restaurant; now, a rooftop terrace. Previously only open for lunch and dinner, Santoni is now serving breakfast. And it’s quite a breakfast. Smashed avocado like you’ve never seen it before, served with cucumber tomato salad, brick pastry-wrapped king prawn, Meredith goats' cheese, pistachio dukkah and sourdough ($24). If you’re feeling in need of a sensory adventure, why not try their macaron, sandwiched with chicken liver parfait and served with an apple gel, caramelised walnuts and a scotch egg? It’s hard to imagine, I know, but it’s true — and the sweet and salty nature of the dish has a lot going for it. You can always stick to the familiarity of muesli, which is served with a twist — it's swathed in a little raspberry jelly and lemon balm ($13.50). Larger appetites can be sated with pork belly with agrodolce (an Italian sweet and sour sauce) or a soft shell crab burger, which has just the right mix of chilli jam and aioli to render it eye-closingly delicious ($16). And don’t forget the breakfast pizza. Sant’Antonio Abate is said to be the patron saint of pizza makers, and Santoni proudly operate under his care. Any hangover would quake in the face of the vegetarian or bacon version of this AM pizza ($19.50). Coffee, including their special cold brew, is supplied by Code Black, and Santoni will be one of the first restaurants to have Pressed Juices on their menu. The glowing bottles will have goodness coursing through your veins before you can even Instagram the panoramic views from the roof. Hawthorn locals have been enjoying Santoni for years — so don’t get left behind. Pick a friend, any friend, and pull them up the stairs to the rooftop. Take the credit for the discovery and reap the goods and the glory.
First, Melbourne Museum became the top spot right now, in this very galaxy, to see Star Wars come to life via Lego. Thanks to the world-premiering Lego Star Wars: The Exhibition, it's the only place to see life-sized recreations of the space saga's locations, characters, duels and moments as made out of eight-million-plus plastic bricks, in fact. Next, the same venue in the Victorian capital is welcoming another Australian debut: the nation's first-ever Star Wars cafe. Blue milk is definitely on offer, because it wouldn't be a Star Wars-themed spot for a snack and a sip without it. That's the only menu item that's been revealed so far. The full range will feature other dishes and selections inspired by the franchise, however — but it hasn't yet been confirmed if green milk, fruit platters, fish eggs or purple juice will be among them. While Lego Star Wars: The Exhibition opened on the appropriate date — May the fourth, of course — the Star Wars Galactic Cafe is launching on Saturday, June 7, 2025. The pop-up also promises an immersive eating and drinking experience beyond what you're consuming, taking you to a Corellian Star Cruiser to get feasting, as part of an Australian-first collaboration between Museums Victoria, Disney and Lucasfilm. "The Star Wars Galactic Cafe showcases Museums Victoria's expertise in creating rich, sensory experiences — taking visitors on a deliciously immersive, intergalactic journey. Combining world-class hospitality with the timeless appeal of the Star Wars galaxy, the Star Wars Galactic Cafe offers Melbourne Museum's visitors yet another way to engage with this premier exhibition, in a cosmically cool atmosphere," said Museums Victoria Chief Executive Officer and Director Lynley Crosswell. As for the Aussie-exclusive exhibition, aka the largest collection of life-sized Lego Star Wars models ever assembled and the biggest touring Lego showcase ever, the force is strong with this one — the Lego-building force, that is. The Millennium Falcon, Emperor Palpatine's throne flanked by two Royal Guards, a stormtrooper helmet, Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader facing off, and the Mandalorian and Moff Gideon: they're all featured. Lego Star Wars: The Exhibition hails from Ryan McNaught aka Brickman, who has indeed been spending time turning plastic rectangles, squares and other shapes into a recreation of the smash-hit franchise that's been soaring across screens big and small — and beyond — for almost five decades now. To build, the showcase took more than 25,000 hours at McNaught's headquarters in Tullamarine. The Star Wars Galactic Cafe opens on Saturday, June 7, 2025 at Melbourne Museum, 11 Nicholson Street, Carlton. Head to the museum's website for bookings and more details. Lego Star Wars: The Exhibition runs from Sunday, May 4, 2025–Monday, January 26, 2026 at Melbourne Museum, 11 Nicholson Street, Carlton. Head to the exhibition's website for tickets and more details. Exhibition images: Eugene Hyland, Museums Victoria / The Brickman.
Twenty years. Twelve seasons, plus a round of revival specials. Oh-so-many music and comedy guests. As at 2025, that's the Spicks and Specks story. This year marks two decades since the series first debuted on the ABC — and through cancellations, new hosts, bringing back its OG talents and more, the music quiz show has become a firm Australian favourite. To celebrate that longevity, its latest run will arrive in June. The ABC announced back in 2024 that Spicks and Specks would return this year. Now there's an exact date: Sunday, June 15. Adam Hills, Myf Warhurst and Alan Brough are all back — this time joined by Megan Washington, Marcia Hines, Kram, Lucy Durack and Robert Forster among the musicians, plus comedians Julia Morris, Tom Ballard, Dave O'Neil and Sara Pascoe. Hands on buzzers, again. Get ready to bust out all that music knowledge, and also to play along with one of the nation's most-beloved television shows once more, too. Among everything that the ABC has ever broadcast, be it news, entertainment, after-school kids shows, oh-so-much Doctor Who and late-night music videos to keep you occupied after a few drinks all included, Spicks and Specks is among the all-time highlights. 2025's season will also feature performances by Spiderbait, Montaigne, Paul Kelly, Emma Donovan, Pseudo Echo, Barry Morgan and The Living End. In the mid-00s, when the ABC decided to take a few cues from Britain's music quiz and comedy panel TV series Never Mind the Buzzcocks by creating Spicks and Specks, Australia's national broadcaster likely knew that it had a hit on its hands — but it mightn't have realised just how popular that the show would become. Here's how it works, if you need a refresher: the contestants answer questions, compete for points and just generally prove funny, too, all while the series puts Aussie musos and comedians against each other. Spicks and Specks was a weekly favourite when it first aired between 2005–2011 — and it keeps being resurrected. In fact, it has enjoyed more comebacks than John Farnham, although that has meant different things over the years. When the program was initially revived back in 2014, it did so with a new host and team captains, for instance. And when it started to make a return with its original lineup of Hills, Warhurst and Brough, it first did so via a one-off reunion special. That 2018 comeback became the ABC's most-watched show of that year. So, the broadcaster then decided to drop four new Spicks and Specks specials across 2019–20 and, for 2021, to bring back Spicks and Specks in its regular format. In 2022, ten new episodes hit — and then the show returned again in 2024. To tide you over until the 2025 episodes arrive, here's a clip from 2024's Spicks and Specks run: Spicks and Specks returns to ABC TV and ABC iView from Sunday, June 15, 2025.
Any exhibition boasting art by Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Edgar Degas, Mary Cassatt, Camille Pissarro and Berthe Morisot is always a must-see. When French Impressionism displayed at NGV International back in 2021, then, the Victorian venue should've had a blockbuster on its hands. But in a time of pandemic lockdowns, this feast of masterpieces on loan from Boston's renowned Museum of Fine Arts was plagued with a briefer-than-planned run. Bringing it back for a proper season might've taken a few years, but this showcase is just as huge in 2025 as it was aiming to be four years ago. When it comes to art exhibitions, second chances aren't common, of course. While a big-name showcase may display at several places around the world, it doesn't often hit the same venue twice. Between Friday, June 6–Sunday, October 5, 2025, the National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne is flouting the norm, then — an understandable move when there's 100-plus works from French impressionism's best-known talents to share with art lovers. This is one of the largest collections of the eponymous art movement to ever make its way to Australia, complete with works that've never been seen here before. As it was in 2021, it's again part of the Melbourne Winter Masterpieces exhibition series. One must-see: the presentation of 16 Monet canvases in one gallery, all in a curved display to close out the showcase — and focusing on his scenes of nature in Argenteuil, the Normandy coast and the Mediterranean coast, as well as his Giverny garden. In total, there's 19 Monet works in French Impressionism from the Museum of Fine Arts' collection (Water Lilies among them), which still leaves the US gallery that's the source of the NGV's exhibition almost as many to display in Boston. Another section in Melbourne digs into early works by Monet and his predecessors, such as Eugène Boudin — and Renoir and Pissarro's careers also get the in-depth treatment. In addition, as the exhibition charts French impressionism's path across the late-19th century, visitors can enjoy three never-before-seen-in-Australia pieces, with Victorine Meurent's Self-portrait one of them. Ten-plus Degas works, as well as two pieces that were part of the very first exhibition of French Impressionism that took place in 1874, also feature. If you made it along to the showcase's first trip Down Under, you will notice changes, with the exhibition design reimagined for its latest presentation. That, too, is meant to take you back to Renoir and company's time, with interiors in Europe and across America's east coast in the era an influence. "More than 150 years after the first exhibition of French impressionist paintings were presented in Paris, the movement remains a beloved and powerful drawcard for audiences worldwide," said NGV Director Tony Ellwood, launching the exhibition for 2025. "French Impressionism From the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston offers Australians a rare opportunity to view 100 timeless masterpieces in person, and experience firsthand the bold brushwork and vivid colours synonymous with these artists." French Impressionism displays at NGV International, St Kilda Road, Melbourne, from Friday, June 6–Sunday, October 5, 2025. Head to the NGV website for more details and tickets. Images: Visitors in French Impressionism from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston on display from 6 June to 5 October, at NGV International, Melbourne. Photo: Dan Castano. // Installation view of French Impressionism from the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston on display from 6 June to 5 October, at NGV International, Melbourne. Photo: Sean Fennessy.
Melbourne's cultural tapestry weaves some of its most dynamic colours in South Melbourne where the pulse of the city's south beats with a rhythm that promises something truly stunning for every hour. About 12,000 people call South Melbourne home and lucky them, they get to experience the joys of an Albert Park lake stroll and a South Melbourne dim sim every day. But as for the rest of us, we'll have to settle for just visiting. But what if you only had one day? How would you make the most of your time? Well, let's find out. MORNING If the early bird gets the worm and the second mouse gets the cheese, the South Melbourne visitor needn't worry about any of that, because chances are if you're reading this, you're a human. However, no matter your species, it is recommended to rise just before the sun so you can be at Albert Park Lake as that giant fireball in the sky says good morning to the planet. Yes, waking that early sucks, but if you can do it, the reward will be immense. The lake and its surrounds are stunning at all times of day but with a dynamic pastel backdrop of orange sky and brightening light it is particularly special. Next, we need coffee. A morning is only as good as the coffee that accompanies it — cue The Kettle Black, where baristas craft seriously decent coffee. Stick around for a while and take in the vibe, the airy sun-drenched space is worth lingering over. [caption id="attachment_925199" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Oven-fresh croissants at Chez Dre[/caption] Next, head to the Austro Bakery and nab yourself a giant pretzel, loaf of sourdough or anything else your heart desires. You really can't go wrong here as the bakery effortlessly blends tradition of centuries-old European baking inspiration with a modern twist. Speaking of baked goods, you might also want to swing by Chez Dre, a French-inspired cafe serving cakes and brunch that will transport you to Paris with every flaky bite of its chocolate croissants. Finally, round off the morning with a visit to See Yup Temple, built originally in 1856 then rebuilt and expanded a decade later. The oldest Chinese temple in Australia is a real historical treat right here in Melbourne and the perfect place to take a quiet moment before things start ramping up for the rest of the day. AFTERNOON By afternoon, South Melbourne Market beckons with the siren call of a South Melbourne dim sim — it would be a crime and an affront to all things good and holy not to. This is a sacred place for dim sim lovers the world over, a place of deep historical and spiritual significance. To taste the South Melbourne dim sim is to experience a little piece of delicious Australian history. So go on, grab one, or grab a few, and let's get going. Next up? Get in loser, we're going shopping. Check out Clarendon, Coventry, Cecil and Park streets for a little bit of retail therapy at some of Melbourne's coolest boutiques. If you're into good design, cute homewares and anything even remotely fashion-related, this is your time to shine as you hunt for a hidden gem in South Melbourne's leafy shopping streets. To keep the artisanal vibe going, pop into the Australian Tapestry Workshop on Park Street. It's been spinning some of Australia's most stunning tapestries since 1976 and is the only one of its kind in Australia, as well as among just a handful around the world. Guests can check out its two galleries, which showcase exhibitions of tapestries and modern art on a rotating basis. It also runs tapestry classes and workshops regularly. And finally, for a laidback interlude, pop into Westside Ale Works — a cosy laneway brewpub hidden on Alfred Street just begging you to stay for a while and enjoy a nice afternoon pint (or several). EVENING As the sun dips and evening colours the sky, a stroll along Port Melbourne Beach offers the perfect canvas for a sunset walk — bonus points if you're with that special someone, this is seriously romantic. And if you don't have that special someone, you'll find someone one day, or maybe you won't! Either way, a sunset stroll on the beach is lovely. Next, follow the scent of a woodfired grill to Half Acre, a once dilapidated mill that's been transformed into a fine spot to enjoy a hearty feast of great, simple food with Middle Eastern and Euro influences amid an instantly warm atmosphere that feels like elevated dining at a friend's place. Afterwards, head to Bellota Wine Bar and enjoy a glass of red, or white, or orange — given it is home to literally thousands of wine bottles. Whether you're sitting at the bar, the tables, or in the courtyard, the vibe is sure to be immaculate. LATE-NIGHT FUN The night is still young; it's only natural we go bar hopping. Head to gorgeous Hatted bistro James for a European wine bar feeling with hints of Japanese inspiration on its fantastic degustation menu. Or for something more casual venture up to The Albion Rooftop to enjoy the spectacular cityscape vista, or pop by The Montague in the leafy backstreets for a nice cocktail in the inviting outdoor seating. Obviously, we suggest all three, as well as any more you might encounter on your journey. South Melbourne is your oyster, and all its bars lead to a good time. And now for the best part of the night. Head to Dessertopia for some of the most visually pleasing desserts you'll ever see. Seriously, they look so good you'll almost feel bad eating them (almost). Don't take our word for it, check out its Insta. Yes, that's right, glow-in-the-dark cupcakes. What a time to be alive. Enjoy and bask in the sweet glow, you had the ultimate day (and night) in South Melbourne. Now go get some rest, you must be exhausted. Looking to make the most of your next city break? Explore more of your city this summer with the City of Port Phillip.
Here's a cheap way to update your wardrobe, as long as you're so fond of ALDI that you're keen to show your love via your outfit. Already a go-to for budget-friendly groceries, snow gear and whatever other specials that it can rustle up, the supermarket chain started its own streetwear collection in 2024, and that move proved a hit. Accordingly, you can now get excited about decking yourself out in the company's 2025 range. Selling clothes wasn't new for the chain when the ALDImania collection initially debuted, as everyone who regularly trawls its middle aisles will be well-aware, but this was the first time that the brand released its own ALDI threads. Those pieces sold out, so 2025's collection is even bigger. Everything still comes cheap, though, clocking in at under $20. Available from ALDI stores from Wednesday, April 9, 2025, the new range features 29 pieces. ALDI-branded hoodies, track pants, sneakers, socks and beanies are back, as are sweatshirts, t-shirts, bucket hats and caps. You can also get ALDI clogs this time around. For some items, there's also multiple colours available, with grey, back and white the 2025 lineup's base hues. Both types of shoes come in two styles, as do the t-shirts. For little ALDI fans, kids' sweatshirts and track pants are also on offer. Again made from sustainably sourced or recycled materials, the collection starts at $4.99 cost-wise, which'll get you a pair of socks. The most you'll pay is $19.99 for the sneakers. In-between those maximums and minimums, hoodies will set you back $14.99, beanies and bucket hats $7.99 each, clogs are the same price, and tees $8.99. If you'd like a compact umbrella (in three designs) or a double-walled insulated mug (in four designs), they help round out the collection. ALDI's 2025 streetwear range will hit the chain's supermarkets around Australia from Wednesday, April 9. Visit the ALDI website for more details.
It's been a big year here in Melbourne — and that calls for one heck of a send-off. Whether you're eager to see the back of 2022 with a few champagnes in hand, or looking to launch into 2023 with the help of DJ tunes and a good ol' d-floor session, a slew of Melbourne bars, pubs and restaurants are open and happy to help. From fancy dinners and cocktail soirees to dance parties and rooftop shindigs, we've scouted out a big bunch of New Year's Eve events you can add to your calendar right now. Some are ticketed, some are free — all promise to have you marching out the year that was in style. Round up the crew and lock in one of these New Year's Eve happenings now. CENTRAL [caption id="attachment_883543" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Yakimono[/caption] Whitehart: A free-entry laneway party with sounds from DJ Ingrid, Taijae, Amin Payne, Inspector Decks and more. Panda Hot Pot: Open as usual for your New Year's Eve hot pot feasting. Yakimono: A flame-driven set-menu feast ($145), with DJs spinning into the night. Book a spot here. Ferdydurke: This laneway bar will be open for DJ-fuelled good times from 5pm–3am. Connie's Italian Diner & Pizza: A terrace party fuelled by Italo-Disco tunes, aperitivo cocktails and pizza. Robata: Open from 4.30pm and serving a set menu of Robata favourites. Book one of two sittings here. HER: A five-level NYE party extravaganza, complete with art, performances, Thai food, cocktails and more. Chancery Lane: This chic New Year's Eve dinner will see you indulging in scallops with caviar, duck a l'orange and more, across multiple courses. Book one of two sittings here. Society: For an indulgent end to the year, hit this stunner to enjoy live entertainment, DJs, bubbly and top-shelf feasting, plus fireworks views from the terrace. The Rooftop at QT: A glam soirée featuring champagne, caviar and oysters, overlooking the city skyline. NORTH [caption id="attachment_744580" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Moon Dog World, Kate Shanasy[/caption] Moon Dog World: A huge Mad Hatter's-themed brewery party featuring a five-course beer-matched banquet, plus dance-friendly tunes from the 90s and 00s to ring out the night. Score tickets from $120 here. The B.East: Walk in for burgers, beats and bevs, from 6pm until late. Johnny's Green Room: A laidback rooftop do, soundtracked by tunes curated by Hope St Radio. Maha Bar: Open from 5pm for a special $130 NYE mezze feast — book a table online. Stomping Ground: Get groovy at this Summer of Love-themed shindig, filled with beer and retro tunes. BrewDog Pentridge: Open from 12pm for walk-ins and bookings, with a couple of drink specials on offer. New Guernica: This beloved club is putting on a huge New Year's Eve dance party hosted by Eat the Beat. WEHBBA will headline a solid lineup of DJs and guests will score a free celebration drink at midnight. Nab tickets from $60 here. The Provincial: This Fitzroy pub's throwing a rooftop party with bottomless drinks and snacks (tickets online), as well as a cruisier downstairs celebration with tickets from $25. Grab one here. The Everleigh: You've got two ticketing options to experience this cocktail bar's Old Hollywood-themed NYE soirée — do it stand-up-style with roaming canapes for $99, or with a dedicated table, table service and a charcuterie board for $175. Tickets online. SOUTH [caption id="attachment_883541" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Hawker Hall[/caption] Matilda: A decadent five-course feast featuring dishes like kangaroo tartare, baby octopus, and wagyu with caviar. Book one of two sittings here. The Newmarket Hotel: Get the ball rolling early, with this NYE bottomless brunch — sittings are at 12pm, 3pm and 6pm, with tickets from $59 online. Hawker Hall: Book a table and enjoy an a la carte feast or NYE banquet while you soak up DJ sounds into the night. Bang Bang: A rollicking New Year's do complete with three ticketing options — an $85 dinner sitting, a $155 dinner package with drinks and DJ tunes, and a walk-in spot at the bar. Book here. St Kilda Sea Baths: This beachside haven is throwing a 'Better in Colour' NYE party, complete with free-flowing drinks and canapes from 4–6pm. After that, catch DJs like Joe Sofo, Andrej and Lana spinning across all three levels until the wee hours. Grab tickets from $135 here. Mr Miyagi: Open from 5pm for 90-minute bookings — with a booze-matched NYE Feed Me menu on offer. Bar Carolina: Open from 6pm for a three-course feast, paired with jazz, gospel and soul tunes by Carmen Hendricks — bookings here. Firebird: A set-menu modern Asian feast, with the option of bottomless drinks. Book online. The Emerson: This party will see you sending out the year with a night of DJ tunes across three levels — matched with free-flowing drinks if you nab a VIP ticket. Book here. Baby Pizza: This pizza bar is open for both walk-ins and set-menu banquets, with cocktail specials and DJ tunes to round out the fun. Pawn & Co: Farewell 2022 while ripping up the dance floor to sounds from the likes of TBIB, Gaz Kempster and Wunderkind. $59 tickets include a couple of drinks — get yours here. EAST [caption id="attachment_832924" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Fargo & Co[/caption] Fargo & Co: A buzzing NYE house party featuring four hours of free-flowing drinks, roving canapes and DJs. Book a ticket for $89 here. Starting early? The venue's also hosting bottomless brunch from 12pm. Moon Dog OG: This free brewery shindig is set to feature a bunch of beer, plus Razzler specials, to enjoy while you're belting out karaoke tunes. Book here or just walk in. The Corner: A full-venue NYE party bumping to tunes by Donny Benét, plus local acts Our Carlson and Delivery. Book here. WEST [caption id="attachment_880569" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Mr West[/caption] Mr West: Spend the night sampling top-notch fizz at this pet-nat party, featuring a huge range of vino and a psychedelic 70s soundtrack. General entry's available from 1pm, with $47 party packages also on offer. Book here. Holmes Hall: A free party starring all the usual tap brews and house cocktails, along with an all-day and all-night menu, DJ sounds spinning till late. Walk in or reserve a table. Grazeland: This food precinct is throwing two simultaneous NYE parties — take your pick of the celebrations here. Top Image: Ferdydurke
Just can't wait for another date with The Lion King in one of its many guises? For more than three decades now, since the original animated flick first arrived and became a beloved favourite — as well as a box-office smash and an Oscar-winner — no one has had to. Movie sequels followed, as well as a photorealistic remake with its own prequel. Spinoffs and TV shows have popped up, too. For almost 30 years, The Lion King has also taken to the stage. No stranger to Australia, the film-to-theatre musical has just announced a new date Down Under in 2026. Let's call it the circle of stage productions: a local version of The Lion King initially trod the Aussie boards in 2003, then a second take arrived in 2013. Just as both of those two tours did, the new production will open in Sydney. In fact, it's playing at the same venue, the Capitol Theatre, that The Lion King first roared into when it made its Australian theatre debut. So far, only a month has been announced in terms of timing, with The Lion King set to open in April 2026. No other cities or dates have been revealed as yet, but prior productions have taken the story of Simba, Mufasa and Scar beyond the Harbour City. In the past, almost four-million audience members have enjoyed the show Down Under. Worldwide, that number is more than 120 million, all watching a performance that's played more than 100 cities in 24 countries, and is the biggest-grossing title in history. On the stage, The Lion King is as acclaimed as it is popular, including collecting six Tony Awards in 1998, Best Musical among them — and making its OG director Julie Taymor the first woman to receive a Tony for Direction of a Musical. Can you feel the love tonight? This theatre hit has, repeatedly. [caption id="attachment_990210" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Deen van Meer, Disney[/caption] "Every time we return to Australia, we are reminded of the region's considerable talent pool, both onstage and off, and we can't wait to gather a talented and exciting company for The Lion King," said Disney Theatrical Group Executive Producer Anne Quart and Managing Director Andrew Flatt, who have been with The Lion King onstage since its 1997 US premiere. "We are thrilled to welcome The Lion King back to Sydney, the place where it all began in Australia over 20 years ago. The Walt Disney Company ANZ is proud to be one of only three places in the world where, alongside Broadway and the West End, we self-produce musicals, directly employing hundreds of Australian theatre professionals," added The Walt Disney Company Australia and New Zealand Senior Vice President and Managing Director Kylie Watson-Wheeler. [caption id="attachment_803460" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Matthew Murphy, Disney[/caption] [caption id="attachment_803461" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Joan Marcus, Disney[/caption] The Lion King will open at the Capitol Theatre, 13 Campbell St, Haymarket, Sydney, from April 2026. For more details, and to join the ticket waitlist, head to the production's website. Top image: Matthew Murphy, Disney.
In the lead-up to new Hollywood-set satire The Studio premiering its first season on Apple TV+, the streaming platform kept doing something that's a well-established element of the entertainment industry: name-dropping. This is the latest project from long-time collaborators Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg after Superbad, Pineapple Express, This Is the End, Bad Neighbours and its sequel, The Interview, The Night Before and plenty more, with the pair co-creating, co-writing, co-directing and executive producing the series. Rogen (Mufasa: The Lion King) stars, with Catherine O'Hara (The Wild Robot), Ike Barinholtz (Curb Your Enthusiasm), Kathryn Hahn (Agatha All Along) and Chase Sui Wonders (City on Fire) rounding out the main cast. That's a starry group already. Across two trailers, however, a heap of guest parts and cameos were revealed — including for Bryan Cranston (Argylle), Zoë Kravitz (Blink Twice), Paul Dano (Fantasmas), Olivia Wilde (Don't Worry Darling), Charlize Theron (Fast X), Anthony Mackie (Captain America: Brave New World), Zac Efron (A Family Affair), Sarah Polley (Women Talking) Greta Lee (Past Lives), Ice Cube (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem), Rebecca Hall (Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire), Adam Scott (Severance), Ron Howard (Jim Henson Idea Man) and Martin Scorsese (Killers of the Flower Moon). A few days before the show's Wednesday, March 26, 2025 debut Down Under, the full list of well-known talents appearing on-screen arrived. Dave Franco (Love Lies Bleeding), Jean Smart (Hacks), Johnny Knoxville (The Luckiest Man in America), Josh Hutcherson (The Beekeeper), Quinta Brunson (Abbott Elementary), Ramy Youssef (Poor Things), Steve Buscemi (Transformers One), Zack Snyder (Rebel Moon), Aaron Sorkin (Being the Ricardos) and Parker Finn (Smile and Smile 2) are among them, too. It's clear through the roster of names, in The Studio's ten-part initial season itself, and from talking with a number of the show's cast and guiding forces: this is a series with the utmost of love for the art of making pictures, even as it savvily pokes fun at the whole business around movies. The task that Rogen and Goldberg have set themselves, and achieve winningly, is anchoring the act of parodying Tinseltown with details drawn from real-life experiences, assistance from that enviable lineup of Hollywood folks joining in and a celebratory insider spirit. Rogen plays Matt Remick, a film executive who has only ever wanted one job: to run the fictional Continental Studios. It doesn't take long for that dream to come true, or for the character to realise what being a studio head truly means. "I got into this because I love movies. But now I have this fear that my job is to ruin them," he tells his mentor and predecessor Patty Leigh (O'Hara). That line is indicative of The Studio's knack for turning reality into astute, acerbic but affectionate viewing — Rogen and Goldberg once heard it themselves, uttered by an IRL executive. "They're all really close to our experience in some way, shape or form," James Weaver — who co-runs Point Grey Pictures, the production company behind The Studio, with Rogen and Goldberg — tells Concrete Playground about the link between the series' characters and scenarios and actuality. That said, the team's own interactions across their careers were just the beginning. "We met with a lot of people in the industry who are friends of ours, who had run studios, et cetera, and tried to mine their experience for when we're not around. What do they say behind closed doors? And so I think we tried to have an understanding of what those conversations were like." Personal inspiration remains key across the show, though. "Giving a note to a filmmaker that you really respect, and a note that you know is not going to be popular, is something we've definitely had to do," Weaver continues. That 'been there, felt that' vibe is also crucial to the search for validation at the heart of The Studio. Everyone wants it, executives and megastars alike, whether by getting a gig, having their ideas heard, making a hit, leaving a legacy, winning awards, being thanked in public or being seen to have a worthy job. "Wanting to be thanked at an award show because that's the only evidence that you did anything on it is something that we've seen as well," Weaver advises. "I think we're hoping that that's coming through, that the authenticity of our experience is in the show, and that's partially, I think, what people seem to be liking." In Matt's Continental team, three fellow studio employees are rarely far from his side: Barinholtz's Sal Seperstein, another seasoned executive; Hahn's Maya Mason, the company's marketing head; and Wonders' Quinn Hackett, an up-and-comer. From their respective time in the business, each is familiar with the types of characters that they're portraying — and that knowledge played a part in their performances, sometimes directly and sometimes in a more general sense. "A lot of studio executives I've worked with over the years, some great, some not so great, but I pulled little moments from a lot of them and put them into Sal," Barinholtz notes. "I have not one specific person. What they wrote was what I basically followed. But as I was putting the costumes on, there's definitely some humans, one could say," Hahn says. For Wonders, "my best friend is an assistant to a director, and she is someone who's very precocious, very ready to take over the world, but definitely has to earn her stripes and bide her time, and I think lots of young, ambitious people can relate to that. So that's one person I had in mind." As Continental's execs weather everything from endeavouring to capitalise upon the intellectual property-driven movie trend by making a Kool-Aid flick to attempting to capture an expensive golden-hour one-take shot — plus missing footage, casting conundrums, trailer scandals, the Golden Globes and annual US movie theatre-owner convention CinemaCon — chaos is their baseline. Still, Wonders also sees the series as having "a big sense that if you love what you do and you do it with integrity, as sappy as that is, there is going to be something in it for you, some sort of goodwill that comes your way. I feel like these characters find they have sad lives where they just are so dedicated to this one thing, and at the end of the day they kind of find their family. So that's a nice universal message". [caption id="attachment_997078" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Photo by Eric Charbonneau/Apple TV+ via Getty Images.[/caption] And that oner? It isn't just a focus of a storyline within the show; long takes are also part of its own style. "It felt like every scene was a play, like you're doing a different play every scene — and just once you got dialled in, once we rehearsed and you knew what you were doing, it was really exhilarating to be in that zone," Barinholtz shares. "It's definitely more challenging, but then it's amazing how much you can accomplish," adds Hahn. "There's something heightened about doing it as a oner that I really, really love." We also chatted with Goldberg, Weaver, Barinholtz, Hahn and Wonders about the love that's baked into The Studio, that search for recognition that drives its characters, ensuring that the series is relatable far beyond Hollywood insiders, its visual approach, those cameos and more — including how Barinholtz and Hahn's past TV comedy roles on recent greats such as The Mindy Project, Parks and Recreation and The Afterparty came in handy. On How Everything in the Series, Jokes and Cameos Included, Filters Through the Show's Love for the Film Industry James: "At the beginning of the show, we really knew that this was going to be about having a show about how we love making movies. So I think it comes through the lens of that, everything that happens. So in terms of making jokes about A24 or some of the other companies that are in there, we've made movies with A24. They're great people. They do incredible work. And so I think the entire show is about our experience in Hollywood for the last 15 years, and I think we're trying to bring some truth and some sense of 'this is how it is', but also all through the lens of humour and fun. As far as the cameos, each of them came about in different ways. Some of them are people we've worked with in the past. Some people like Martin Scorsese or Zoë Kravitz, we met for the first time — and either through the script that Seth and Evan had written or through meetings, we talked to them about how we wanted to portray them in the show. And they were really excited and game. There is a history, whether it be The Player or The Larry Sanders Show, of Hollywood satirising itself. And so that was something that people understood, what we were going for, and people were really trusting and excited to be there. I think that we're not necessarily worried that people are going to see the show as some sort of takedown of Hollywood, because we love Hollywood and we love the fact that we get to make movies. It really is more of a presentation of our experience through the comedic lens than it is any takedown of the industry." On Barinholtz, Hahn and Wonders' First Impressions When The Studio Came Their Way Kathryn: "I mean, just to hear that these humans were involved. And I've never really worked with Seth and Evan together. And just the writing of it was just hilarious. And to think of these humans in those parts was really exciting. I couldn't wait to jump in." Chase: "They're telling very risky jokes, and I remember reading them on the page and thinking 'this is something I've heard behind closed doors, but never on television for all eternity'. So it's always good when you feel like you're doing something that's pushing boundaries." Ike: "I remember Seth called me and said 'hey, we're writing ...'. And I said 'I'm in'. And he said 'it's a show about Hollywood'. I said 'I'm in'. And he said 'Catherine O'Hara is going to be in it'. I said 'I'm in. I'm already in.'. It was the world's easiest 'yes'. It was just literally the world and the writing, and having them and Catherine — and Bryan Cranston, who is in really good physical shape. Beautiful body. It was the world's fastest and easiest 'yes'." On the Search for Validation That's at the Heart of the Show Evan: "I would say the nice thing about that element of the series is we set out not to make an aspirational version of Hollywood, but to make a real version of Hollywood. And that is the real version of Hollywood. People are very cynical and all that in the world today, but Hollywood is mostly people who are wildly passionate, care deeply and would rather do this than anything else in the world — no matter how high or low they are on the totem pole of success. People just are passionate in a way that most industries aren't. And so we get to tap into those hopes and dreams in making the show, merely by trying to replicate the real experiences we've had. And, of course, it doesn't always work out for people, and sometimes it does and sometimes it doesn't, but the passion is the thing that bleeds through it all." On the Importance of Balancing Satire and Affection for the Cast — and the Fact That The Studio Takes the Art of Filmmaking Very Seriously Chase: "I think it's important. And one thing Seth and Evan really tried to hit is the realism of the comedy, and comedy born of situations where people are just trying their hardest and it's just these doofuses who can't quite get it right. It also helps when our production design is impeccable, the way we filmed it is so high-level and it just naturally lends itself to a more elevated, smart type of comedy than just a slapstick sort of thing." Kathryn: "Because everything is so elevated, you really feel a certain responsibility to uphold the world around you and the filmmaking around you. And there is less opportunity for hamming around. So everything feels very focused in a way that keeps the energy legit and high and focused." Ike: "Could not say it better than they just did, so I won't." [caption id="attachment_997090" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Photo by Eric Charbonneau/Apple TV+ via Getty Images.[/caption] On How Barinholtz and Hahn's Past Work on Fellow TV Comedies Such as The Mindy Project, Parks and Recreation and The Afterparty Helped Them on the Path to The Studio Kathryn: "All good ensembles." Ike: "Yes, yes." Kathryn: "Great ensembles." Ike: "Great showrunners." Kathryn: "Yes." Ike: "Great writing." Kathryn: "Great writing." Ike: "We're lucky to have been through a lot of those and seen how they all work. And this was different than all those, just because they went about it a different way. But I think you learn every time you do a show, every time you do an episode of a show or whatever, you learn something, you learn a new trick. So it definitely makes it easier." On the Elements of the Series That Most Felt Real for the Cast and Crew James: "It all feels real to us. I mean, I think we day to day are in these conversations about what kind thing to get behind in terms of a movie or TV show — or who's a filmmaker or a performer that we really believe in. Then we have to have those conversations about 'how is this thing going to make people money?'. It's really this idea of art versus commerce that I think is at the centre of what the show is. But as Evan was just saying, I think then you put overlay that with characters who care deeply about doing something artistic, but also care deeply about not getting fired. And so I think those two ideas are butting up against each other at all times. And that feels very real. The executives that we've been working with for 15 years are friends of ours. We've watched them get married to each other and there's a lot of like, a lot of community, in terms of the people that this show is portraying. And so it all feels very real to us when it goes through that lens. Seth and Evan are also just very, very funny people. So when it comes to making the jokes and the scenarios out of the real thing, they're just very talented at making that funny and entertaining. But it comes from a real place, and I think that's why hopefully people like respond to the show." Ike: "I'm friends with a lot of people who are studio executives, and I think they like to drink a lot. And so I stole that, and I drink a lot in the show. In real life, moderation — but in the show, I have a problem." Kathryn: "Always moderation." Ike: "Always moderation. That's the takeaway." Chase: "I think also studio execs are people who wield a lot of power, but when they're put in front of actors, who are these big personalities, they can be very shy and kind of cower away. And that's something that's both really fun to play the comedy of and also show the humanity of these characters." Ike: "That's a good answer." Kathryn: "I definitely have been in things in which I've seen the mockups for the posters or the possible trailers, and clearly no one has seen the show or the movie. They're so wildly not what the movie's about." Ike: "Yes, yes, yes." On Making the Series Relatable Outside of Hollywood Ike: "I think that the guys, Seth and Evan, did a very good job — even though the show is undeniably set in this world of movies and studios and executives, I think a lot of the situations in each of these episodes are things that everyone has dealt with. We've all had a boss who's gotten too drunk. We've all wanted credit for something and we are afraid we're not going to get credit for it. We've all been jealous of a coworker at some point. So I think a lot of the themes that they deal with in the episodes are universal, and whether you are someone who works in entertainment or around entertainment, or you have nothing to do with entertainment, you'll recognise a lot of those themes and scenarios, and hopefully they'll make you laugh." Kathryn: "Chances are people watch entertainment, so they'll get an idea of what the situations are. But also it's made with love, and so I think that's a different thing, too. There's such care for these characters and there's such love for this business of making movies, and nobody's really tearing down anybody. And I think that that also feels fun for an audience, too." On the Visual Approach When You're Making a TV Series About Filmmaking Evan: "For our show, the method we filmed it came from two different sources. One was, directorially Seth and I have done a lot of improv comedy feature films where we do a wide shot, medium and we get cross coverage of closeups, and then in editing we mess with all the improv we did. And we just wanted to do something very different, so we thought long extended takes would be a great way to do that and to make it more directorial as opposed to written and edited. Then through that conversation, we talked about how it could impact the actual storytelling — and the thing we wanted to embrace was the panic that a lot of these people experience in these jobs. These studio heads, even though they're very powerful and very passionate and very intelligent, they're often panicking because they can just lose their job for one big disaster. One flop and their whole job, maybe even their career, could be done or messed up for a long time. So we thought it would good to anchor people in that mania, and in that intensity, and let them feel the panic — and the best way to do that is make it feel like you are a person, like you are the cameraman, like there's an individual there. So we used one lens with long takes, and it whips back and forth just like your own head would if you were in that room experiencing the scenario that our characters are." On Working with Seth Rogen in His Many Roles on the Series: Star, Co-Creator, Co-Director, Co-Writer and Executive Producer Ike: "Oh man, I'd worked with him a couple times but never as a director. And he's really incredible, I think, at acting and being present in the scene — but he's watching everything. So if there's a slight little problem in a take, if the camera operator accidentally bumps into someone and the camera shakes for half a second, Seth has seen it. And he will just start laughing and go 'let's go again'. But he's just very tuned in. I'm very impressed at how much. You would think, that for who he is and what he ingests, he would be just not — but he is so freaking tuned in. And he's also just an incredibly good-natured guy. I think a lot of times, if something goes wrong, I've seen directors or producers blow their stack and get mad — and I don't know, it's just they're nice Canadian boys who just don't get that upset." [caption id="attachment_997093" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Photo by Eric Charbonneau/Apple TV+ via Getty Images.[/caption] Chase: "Doesn't yell, doesn't get mad." Ike: "They don't yell." Kathryn: "You could see sometimes when you screwed up and you're trying to find a word, and then you see him, you see him basically shake his head and look at you." Chase: "Yeah, yeah, yeah." Kathryn: "And you're like 'well, save me'." On the Securing The Studio's Many, Many Cameos James: "Martin Scorsese was someone that we all admire and never thought we would have a chance to meet. Seth and Evan wrote a script with him as that character, and we sent it to him and he read it, and he was like 'yeah, I'd love to do it'. And then all of our heads exploded, basically. But then people like Charlize Theron or Zac Efron, they're all people that we have worked with in the past, so they were people that we could talk to directly and say 'hey, we have this idea for a character for you in our show'. And then there were some new people we got to meet, like Zoë Kravitz or Olivia Wilde. They were characters that we wrote for the show, and we just had to meet with them and get their ideas on that character. Seth and Evan were on a lot of zooms with each of them before they signed on. But it was nice, because I think once Martin Scorsese said yes, there were several phone calls that I started with 'so Martin Scorsese's doing the show — so can you do the show?'. And that was really nice, because people would generally say 'yeah, sure'." The Studio streams via Apple TV+.
Pastels and poop. Step inside Unko Museum: The Kawaii Poop Experience and that's what will await. The colour scheme is soft and soothing, but the point of focus is literal crap (well, fake versions). If you've ever called something "cute shit" before, those words have never applied quite as they will here. This Japanese-style installation takes its cues from not only Japan's kawaii poop trend, but from the Unko Museum's sites across the nation, including in Tokyo, Hiroshima and Shizuoka. Now, Unko Museum will make its Australian debut in Melbourne, launching on Wednesday, December 20 to add some adorable crap to the silly season and summer. The focus: "max unko kawaii", aka "the maximum cuteness of poop". Also one of the mains attractions: getting everyone taking snaps and filling their social-media feeds, so expect a heap of pastel emoji-esque shit to fill Instagram. Unko Museum: The Kawaii Poop Experience will be split into zones and areas, spanning displays to take pictures of and other inclusions that are more immersive. Think: images of poop projected around the place, snapping selfies with poop props and flying poop, and retro-style games with a poop theme in a space called the Crappy Game Corner. Pastel-hued toilets are also a feature, lined up along a wall under a sign calling them "my unko maker". So are neon poop signs, giant poops, a ball pit where the balls are shaped like poops, poop hats, walls filled with toilet seats, glowing poop lights and a towering toilet-shaped doorway. Plus, exiting through the gift shop here means picking up kawaii poop merchandise and souvenirs. In Japan, as at October 2023, 1.4-million people had flushed the interactive experience into their itineraries. In Australia, Melburnians and tourists who now want to add some poo to their next Victorian visit can expect to spend 30–60 minutes revelling in endearing crap, in a family-friendly experience — because poop is for everyone. There's no word yet if Unko Museum: The Kawaii Poop Experience will make its way to other Australian cities, but cross your fingers if you can't make it to Melbourne this summer. Unko Museum: The Kawaii Poop Experience will open on Wednesday, December 20 at 360 Bourke Street, Melbourne — head to the pop-up's website to join the waitlist for tickets, which go on sale on Tuesday, November 28.
Mornington Peninsula's Red Hill Estate has opened its new outdoor dining and drinking offering in time for the summer months. Gigi's Piazza, set on the lawns of the estate, invites guests to enjoy the Italian way of life, featuring a share-style Italian menu and crowd-favourite wines by the glass. The new casual hang-out spot is suitable for everything from first dates to family days out. The picnic-style menu, served from the nearby cottage kitchen, showcases casual Italian fare. Think arancini, antipasto, focaccia, pastas, salads, tiramisu and more. Red Hill Estate's General Manager, Dominic Fabrizio says, "No one does long lunches better than the Italians — everybody together, unrushed, enjoying the outdoors and appreciating good food. Gigi's Piazza was designed for visitors to slow down, unwind, and sip and savour every moment." The estate's renowned wines, including the rosé, pinot noir, chardonnay and newly released Blanc de Blancs sparkling, are poured by the glass, perfect for roaming the lawns and playing a game. There's giant Jenga and Hoopla, and your pooches are also welcome to enjoy the outdoor setting. Fabrizio says Gigi's Piazza offers the ultimate "dolce vita" experience, where guests can relax and enjoy life's simple pleasures. "We want our guests to feel right at home — enjoy a glass of wine, a bite to eat and take in the stunning surroundings of Red Hill Estate while you pause from the hustle of everyday life." Images: C McConville.
Travellers are already obsessed with Japan's wild natural landscapes and hyper-organised cities bursting with a delightfully diverse culture. You've also got ancient temples, onsen baths and picturesque towns scattered about the islands. But cover all of this in snow, and see it become something far more magical. And, yes, cold. But magical, nonetheless. In the colder months, Japan comes alive with a range of activities like skiing, snowboarding and a vibrant selection of seasonal festivals. There is a rich winter culture in Japan that is seemingly underrated — read on to see why we are obsessed with Japan when it's doused in snow. [caption id="attachment_878150" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sam Lee (Unsplash)[/caption] WINTER WONDERLAND VILLAGES Head to remote mountain villages to find Japan's own version of hygge. The steep pitched roofs of alpine homes are covered in snow and surrounded by frosted trees. Deep blankets of white consume the streets and cover frozen lakes, too. Yep, it's a lot of snow. The two most famous villages to visit — Shirakawa-go and Gokayama — are both UNESCO World Heritage sites. You'll want longer than a day trip to experience them, so stay in one of the farmhouses that have been converted into small family-run bed and breakfasts to experience rural Japanese culture authentically. Take your time exploring these winter oases, getting to know the people who call them home. [caption id="attachment_878141" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Japan National Tourism Organisation[/caption] SKIING AND SNOWBOARDING With all the snow and countless mountain ranges, it's no surprise that Japan is one of the world's biggest skiing and snowboarding destinations. There are over 500 ski resorts here, and they've even hosted two Winter Olympics. If you're into winter sports, then heading to Japan in winter is a no-brainer. On the main island, visit Hakuba Valley to find a series of connected resorts. The northern island is also incredibly popular for its very reliable snowfall. Rusutsu, Niseko and Furano are some of the most popular in this region. But, if we're being honest, just about any ski spot in Japan will be spectacular. Editor's tip: book the ultimate Japan ski tour (including lift passes, transfers and all your accommodation for seven nights) around the Hakuba Valley here. [caption id="attachment_878154" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Steven Diaz (Unsplash)[/caption] ONSEN HOPPING There's no need to run all the way to Iceland to soak in hot natural springs. Japan, a collection of volcanic islands, is full of this naturally heated water that bubbles up to the surface. It's great for your skin and your soul. And, yeah, you can visit these all year round — but nothing beats a winter onsen. Just think: vistas of Japan's snow-covered countryside while you soak your troubles away. It's an experience like no other. And, when you're searching for onsens, be sure to check out the other nature parks nearby. See snow monkeys bathing in hot springs at the Jigokudani Monkey Park, feed foxes at Zao Fox Village and watch cranes dance in the fields within the Kushiro Marsh. [caption id="attachment_878166" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Alva Pratt (Unsplash)[/caption] SEASONAL FOOD AND DRINK While you're soaking in onsens, hanging out at ski resorts and wandering rugged-up around the country's towns and cities, few things will heat you up like a shot of sake. It's like a delicious instant heat pack for your insides. And hot sake is popular for that very reason. Head to an izakaya or two during your stay and drink a few tipples. We all know the cuisine in Japan is next level, and there are dishes that are traditionally made for winter. First off, there's oden. It's a one-pot dish of various savoury goodies simmered in a soy sauce and dashi kelp broth. You can get this anywhere, even convenience stores. Nabe is also a must-try. It's a classic hot-pot dish that's similar to Korean and Chinese hot pots — just with quintessential Japanese flavours. Get cosy around these brothy bowls on a cold winter evening with your mates. [caption id="attachment_878147" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Japan National Tourism Organisation[/caption] WINTER FESTIVALS We all know that Japan uniquely blends its traditional customs with its modern culture and technology. And we believe the best way to experience this phenomenon is by hitting up some local festivals. The spring cherry blossom festival is the best known, but Japan has its own winter celebrations that rival those throughout other times of the year. Christmas and New Year's Eve are big in Japan, but are very family oriented. If you're visiting with mates, or don't know any locals, we recommend you hit up Japan during the Sapporo Snow Festival from February 4–11. The city of Sapporo is taken over by snow and ice sculptures, with live music, street food and carnivals rides too. Be sure to check out the nearby Otaru Snow Light Path Festival and Tokyo's Winter Illuminations as well. [caption id="attachment_878169" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Alessio Roversi (Unsplash)[/caption] SUMO WRESTLING When you have mates visiting from overseas, it's not abnormal to take them to an AFL or NRL match. The same can be said for sumo wrestling in Japan. Not only is the sport so much fun to watch, it's also one of the best places to do some people watching. A wide cross-section of Japanese people will attend these games, having a big day of drinking, eating and cheering on the athletes. Winter is one of the best times to do some athletic spectating here, too. There are a few big tournaments in January and February, with Tokyo being the best place to see them. Just make sure you plan ahead and book tickets early. Make a proper day of it: tickets usually give you access to the arena for the entire day, so take your time learning all the intricacies of the sport with a few drinks in hand. [caption id="attachment_878170" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jezeal Melgoza (Unsplash)[/caption] SUPER SALES A lot of people come to Japan for the shopping. It's a thing. The city is full of unique fashion stores and all the best tech companies selling the latest devices. But you'd be a fool to come to Japan for shopping any other time than the start of the year — as bargains abound in the major cities. It's also when you'll find fukubukuro (literally 'lucky bag'). These Japanese New Year treats are put together by store owners, and hold a bunch of mystery items that are usually worth a lot more than the price you pay for the bag. It's a lucky dip and hugely popular — people go nuts for them. While visiting Japan in winter, be sure to nab a couple and see what you find. Feeling inspired to book a Japanese getaway? Through Concrete Playground Trips, our new travel booking platform, can you purchase holidays specially curated by our writers and editors. We've teamed up with all the best providers of flights, stays and experiences to bring you a series of unforgettable trips at destinations all over the world — check it out. Top images: Japan National Tourism Organisation
Perched aloft Collingwood Yards, Runner Up is a rooftop bar with stunning views of its surrounds. The vibe is a fun and playful blend of old and new with bold colours, 70s fitting and fixtures, and velvet curtains. The rooftop — suitable for whatever weather Melbourne throws at it with its retractable awning — can accommodate up to 70 people, and there's often a rotating list of DJs from Thursdays to Sundays. Drop by between 5 and 7pm on weekdays for 'golden hour specials' that range from $7 shandy to $15 Tommy's Tap Marg. Cheekily, '$9.99 all the time' is a price-tag attached to lager and the second-best red, white, orange and prosecco on the menu. The wine list spotlights Victorian natural wine producers as well as a smattering from France, Italy and other parts of Australia. Cocktails are classic with a twist, like the espresso martini that features Biscoff-spiced vodka or the vodka martini that incorporates fresh tomato-infused vodka. Snacks are limited to Chappy's, mixed olives, dolmades, and the choice of either duck terrine or mushroom pate for something decadent to spread across pita crisps. If you're hankering for something more substantial, order pizza from the nearby Thin Slizzy anytime from 5pm.
When the director and lead of one of 2021's best Norwegian films — and best movies from anywhere that year — joined forces again, of course the Scandinavian Film Festival needed to get the resulting picture on its program. Accordingly, Sentimental Value from The Worst Person in the World filmmaker Joachim Trier, once more starring Renate Reinsve (Presumed Innocent), is one of the big highlights at 2025's Australian showcase of cinema from the Nordic region. Stellan Skarsgård (Andor) and Elle Fanning (A Complete Unknown) also feature, and the results won this year's Cannes Grand Prix (the award below the Palme d'Or). At the Scandinavian Film Festival, Sentimental Value is getting the centrepiece treatment. Movies from Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Iceland are always in the drawcard at this Aussie fest — so a Norwegian spy drama to kick things off in 2025, then an Icelandic black comedy to wrap things up, are both on the itinerary. This year's national tour starts on Friday, July 11 in both Melbourne and Ballarat, with Scandinavian Film Festival's opening nights staggered as it then heads to Canberra, Sydney, Adelaide, Brisbane, Perth, and Byron Bay and Ballina on various dates, wrapping up countrywide on Wednesday, August 13. Launching the fest: Number 24, the latest from The Burning Sea and The Quake director John Andreas Andersen, recounting a true espionage tale from World War II. The aptly named Grand Finale comes in at the other end, spinning a Reykjavik-set story about a struggling chamber orchestra's efforts to endure. Alongside Sentimental Value, Quisling: The Final Days is another of the festival's big-name titles, this time from The King's Choice and Utoya: July 22's Erik Poppe, with the trial of its controversial namesake head of state the film's focus. Cannes favourites, blasts from the past, laughter-inducing fare: they're all on the lineup, then. Add watching Björk's daughter in her first feature role, multiple dates with Danish actor Trine Dyrholm (The Girl with the Needle) and celebrating the 25th anniversary of a Swedish romantic-comedy to the list, too. The first comes courtesy of The Mountain, a coming-of-age and road-trip flick starring Ísadóra Bjarkardóttir Barney. Dyrholm pops up in both the healthcare-centric Second Victims and the David Dencik (Other People's Money)-co-starring Beginnings. And Jalla! Jalla! is marking its quarter-century milestone. Audiences keen to spend Australia's winter feasting their eyes on colder climes from the other side of the world can also look forward to the Faroe Islands-set The Last Paradise on Earth and heading into an Icelandic seafood restaurant with Odd Fish. Nikolaj Lie Kaas (Riders of Justice) leads Way Home, about a Danish father endeavouring to save his loved ones. With heist effort The Quiet Ones, Denmark's biggest-ever robbery makes its way to the screen. Finnish relationship dramedy Sudden Bursts of Emotions, the nation's great Heikki Kinnunen playing 'The Grump' in Long Good Thursday, three siblings returning to the house they grew up in in Everything Must Go, the couch-surfing antics of Live a Little, the beer-brewing sisters of 100 Litres of Gold, My Father's Daughter's focus on a Sámi teenager: add them to your Scandinavian Film Festival list as well. Scandinavian Film Festival 2025 Dates Friday, July 11–Sunday, August 3 — Palace Balwyn, Palace Brighton Bay, Palace Cinema Como, Palace Westgarth, Palace Penny Lane, The Kino, Pentridge Cinema and The Astor Theatre, Melbourne Friday, July 11–Sunday, August 3 — Palace Regent Cinema, Ballarat Wednesday, July 16–Sunday, August 10 — Palace Electric, Canberra Thursday, July 17–Sunday, August 10 — Palace Norton St, Palace Moore Park, Palace Central and Chauvel Cinema, Sydney Wednesday, July 23–Wednesday, August 13 — Palace Nova Eastend Cinemas, Palace Nova Prospect Cinemas, Adelaide Wednesday, July 23–Thursday, August 14 — Palace James St and Palace Barracks, Brisbane Wednesday, July 24–Wednesday, August 13 — Luna Leederville, Luna on SX and Palace Raine Square, Perth Wednesday, July 24–Wednesday, August 13 — Palace Byron Bay and Ballina Fair Cinemas, Byron Bay and Ballina The Scandinavian Film Festival tours Australia in July and August 2025. For more information or to buy tickets, visit the festival's website.
Wellness has been trending more social and more luxurious in recent times, but no one is combining these elements to the same degree as the Gurner Group. While its Saint Haven wellness clubs and SAINT private members' club are already ludicrously lavish, the forthcoming launch of SAINT Black in South Melbourne is pushing the concept to greater heights. Larger and more exclusive than anything that's come before, wellness meets social connection in pure opulence. Inspired by New York City's rooftop fitness scene, where wellness and atmosphere fuse amid high-rise escapes, expect a similarly upscale encounter that shifts mood when day becomes night. If the sun is up, world-class wellness is the focus, with high-energy and design-led experiences elevating performance. Yet once dusk descends, the sprawling space becomes a dynamic, social sanctuary that invites its well-heeled clientele to rub shoulders. With the first SAINT private social club launching in St Kilda last year, this enhanced concept is double the size and offers uncompromising amenities from top to bottom. For instance, the South Melbourne experience is headlined by a stunning outdoor rooftop pool framed by handcrafted barrel saunas. Meanwhile, the club will level up the ambience with design details inspired by ancient bathhouses and the mystique of private clubs. Spanning a sensory members-only entrance, an adaptogenic and kava bar, and a wholefood-driven restaurant, the fitness offering is just as plush, with 200 classes each week across reformer pilates, yoga, meditation, strength training and more. Plus, guests will have access to the latest recovery and anti-ageing technology, from cryotherapy and red-light treatment to hyperbaric oxygen facilities. While the SAINT Black concept is already a level above the Gurner Group's other experiences, the South Melbourne location will also offer an elite membership tier that unlocks even more amenities. Situated on Level 7, this VIP area includes access to the rooftop pool, saunas and terrace, not to mention a full bio-hacking suite, where the upper crust can set about boosting their wellness to stratospheric levels. "SAINT Black is not just a wellness or social club — it's a statement. It brings a rebellious energy into a space usually defined by restraint. It's where intensity meets introspection, and high-performance meets high design," says Tim Gurner, founder of the Gurner Group. "SAINT is pumping from 6am through until 9pm and people can spend entire days and nights in our club, combining training and recovery with business pursuits, nutrition and socialising." SAINT Black South Melbourne is expected to open in July and is now accepting membership applications. Head to the website for more information.
In 1999–2001 TV series Spaced, one of Nick Frost's first-ever roles — also, before Shaun of the Dead, Hot Fuzz and The World's End, his initial screen collaboration with Simon Pegg (Mission: Impossible — The Final Reckoning) and Edgar Wright (Last Night in Soho) — he played a character who was obsessed with weapons and the military. A quarter of a century later, he's portraying someone that's training dragon fighters and forging armaments as a blacksmith. "I'm just trying to see now if there's a connection between Mike and Gobber," Frost jokes with Concrete Playground. "I mean, I think Mike would be a great Gobber. Maybe Berk is actually where Mike ended up. Maybe there was some awful apocalypse in Spaced that we never saw and he eventually became Gobber." If you'd like to embrace that theory about one of Spaced's key figures, you can. You heard it from Frost, after all. Regardless, the English talent is now one of the stars of How to Train Your Dragon in its latest iteration as a live-action film. British author Cressida Cowell started the all-ages-friendly Viking tale on the page in 2003, sparking a book saga that's spanned 12 novels. In 2010, filmmakers Chris Sanders (The Wild Robot) and Dean DeBlois (the OG Lilo & Stitch) brought her tales to cinemas in animation. The latter also wrote and directed 2014's How to Train Your Dragon 2 and 2019's How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World, and now does the same on the newest big-screen visit to Berk. How to Train Your Dragon fans know the story, then, but they haven't seen it unfurled with actors literally stepping into the shoes of its isle setting's inhabitants. Before Mason Thames (Monster Summer) returns to the world of The Black Phone in that horror hit's sequel later in 2025, he's Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III, the reluctant fledgling dragon fighter who befriends one of the most-feared types of the winged creatures — not that you'd know it from Toothless' appearance and demeanour — and champions living in harmony with rather than waging war against them. Gerard Butler (Den of Thieves: Pantera) voiced Hiccup's chieftain father Stoick the Vast in the animated movies, and now reprises the part in How to Train Your Dragon's present leap. As first given voice by Craig Ferguson (The Hustler) in the previous pictures, Frost's Gobber is Stoick's friend and Hiccup's mentor, plus a source of support for a young man who is struggling with living up to his dad's expectations. The dragons themselves still required visual effects to animate into existence, with life-sized puppets used during shooting for the actors to work against. Everywhere that it can, however, How to Train Your Dragon circa 2025 is immersed in a tangible Viking-inspired realm. For Frost, as Gobber is charged with imparting dragon-battling skills not just to Hiccup but to other young warriors — the determined Astrid (Nico Parker, Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy), plus a group of Berk's fellow next generation spanning Snotlout (Gabriel Howell, Nightsleeper), Fishlegs (Julian Dennison, Y2K), and twins Ruffnut and Tuffnut (Mickey 17's Bronwyn James and The Acolyte's Harry Trevaldwyn) — that meant ample days in the film's training-arena set. This part also saw him continue to build upon father figure-type roles that've been joining his resume of late. "It's because I'm getting old," he jests. A jovial "get stuffed!" is Frost's first comment when the passage of time since Spaced and Shaun of the Dead comes up. He's spent that quarter-century-plus since the former kicked off and more than 20 years since the later arrived cementing himself as a beloved actor with a diverse resume. On his filmography, The Boat That Rocked sits side by side with US-set alien comedy Paul — which Frost and Pegg wrote — and also with Attack the Block, voice work alongside Pegg again on The Adventures of Tintin, two Snow White and the Huntsman films, leading rom-com Cuban Fury, TV's Mr Sloane, wrestling flick Fighting with My Family, the Pegg co-starring Truth Seekers and loaning his tones to Skeleton Crew's SM 33. There's more, of course, such as Ice Age, The Boxtrolls and Trollhunters; 2024 horror efforts Krazy House, Get Away and Black Cab; and, in his latest significant news, playing Hagrid in the upcoming HBO Harry Potter series. Frost is responsible for decades of folks asking if their friends want a beer in quite the colourful way, repeating perhaps his best-known Shaun of the Dead line. With that film's Peter Serafinowicz (Wolf King) by his side as How to Train Your Dragon's Spitelout, he's currently in completely different terrain. What appealed to Frost about joining the franchise, and also juggling the family-friendly and definitely not child-appropriate sides of his resume, was equally a topic of conversation in our chat — alongside a range of other subjects, such as adding his own stamp on Gobber, his personal connection to using humour as a shield, that massive training arena, the importance of DeBlois returning as director and Frost never wanting to be an actor. On Taking on the Role of How to Train Your Dragon's Dragon-Fighter Trainer "First of all, it's a massive film. It's part of a really well-loved — I hate the phrase 'franchise', but that's what it is. And apart from maybe Snow White and the Huntsman and stuff like that, I hadn't really done anything perhaps this massive before. And I think being a filmmaker and a writer and an actor, it's like 'let's do this, let's try this — this is different, let's have a go'. I think part of me was aware that obviously Craig Ferguson was Gobber in the past. And people love what Craig did. And I was aware that I didn't want to ruin what he did — I was aware that there was a responsibility on me to make Gobber what people felt watching Craig's Gobber. And I think having a conversation with Dean before I got the job, he was like 'what do you want to do?' — I think once you realise that you have a certain amount of creative freedom, that's really attractive, I think, for me. And to collaborate, that's always a joy. And to know that you have a voice on set and you can say 'hey, is this all right? Can we try this?' or 'do you think this is funny', it's always a lovely compliment to be allowed to do that." On Bringing a New Guise to a Part That's Already Well-Established in the Animated Films "Honestly, I didn't, after the initial few days of getting the job and speaking to Dean, I just left it at the door and then came in completely without that. I didn't want to feel like that was on me for the whole thing, and that I couldn't try anything new or be different because it wasn't what had gone before. I just wanted to try and, as I say, respect what that was, but then let's move on and try to give a different kind of Gobber for a new generation of audiences — but also, I guess, leaving something of what Craig did so people who love the animated ones will enjoy it, too. I think, personally, if I'm going into this with the expectations of what people will think, I think you'd probably just be crushed. You just have to unburden yourself from all of that and just do what you think is right, do what Dean wants, and be respectful of that process and the process of the other actors in the film with you." On What Interests Frost About the Variety of Projects Across His Career, Including Both Family-Friendly Fare and Horror Films Aplenty of Late "I just don't see them as any different, really. It's still all work. I think I'm probably very lucky and grateful that I haven't been pigeonholed in 'oh, well he just does that'. I think that is possible and that does happen. And I'm very pleased that the people who cast things like Harry Potter and this don't think 'oh god, he was cutting someone's head off in a film that he wrote like two years ago. Is that going to be a problem?'. I love the fact that I can do both. I can get away with it all." On Portraying Someone Who Uses Humour as a Shield to Deal with an Uncertain World "I think that's me. That was me for a long time. I think where Gobber and I differ, he just uses it — I think if you live in a society like Berk and where the Vikings are from, I think probably the sense of humour is very dark, because essentially you could be taken and killed in at any moment, day or night. So I think using comedy and laughter as a shield is par for that kind of society. I think where it becomes not so useful is when you hide behind it and not work out what's behind that." [caption id="attachment_1009286" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tyler Curtis/ABImages[/caption] On Stepping Into Paternal-Type and Mentorship-Style Roles "I just think I'm a dad, I've got three children, so I just get it more. I guess when before I had children and if you're going to be a kind of father figure, you're just — as a lot of actors do — you're just imagining what it would be like. And you're drawing on your own father or your grandfather or stepfather. But once you have your own, I think as I act, I always try to get better. Every job I do, every role I play, I just want to be better and better and better. And I think an actor's ageing gives you that opportunity. Every time you do something else, you're slightly older. You've seen a tiny bit more. And what I think, what I'd say about this film, is I know people are saying potentially 'oh, he's quite paternal' — but I actually think Gobber's more maternal in this film. I think he's stepped in to be Hiccup's mum." On the Impact That Immersive Sets Have, Especially How to Train Your Dragon's Training Arena "That was the first thing we shot, and it was really nerve-wracking, because it's massive. It's honestly the size of a small soccer stadium. And there are 200 crew, and there are 500 extras and they're all dressed as dragons. And they all know you, they're looking at you, and you have to give them a little wave. And it's frightening. I think what 25 years in this has given me is you have to shrug that off, and it just becomes about my relationship with the camera and Dean and whoever I'm acting with, and Bill Pope [Unfrosted] the DoP. 'What can I give to you? How can I help you? Should we have a run through our lines?' And I think what helps is making something that massive that small, it helps me cope with it more emotionally, more effectively — because if I were to look around and think 'all these fucking people', it becomes unmanageable emotionally for me." On How Dean DeBlois Continuing as How to Train Your Dragon's Director From the Animated Films Assisted the Cast "Dean, he absolutely loves it. He loves How to Train Your Dragon. He loves Hiccup. He loves Stoick and Gobber and the gang. And he's just passionate about it, and I find being around someone who's so passionate about something, it's really attractive. It makes me love it, too. And I wanted Dean to like me. I wanted him to like Gobber. And I wanted him to, when you're working with someone like Dean, when he just comes up behind you and gives you a little pat, it's like 'oh dad, dad likes it', you know — 'he loves it'. It's nice to be around that kind of passion. It's conducive. It makes me want to be around it, too." On Frost's Journey Over the 25 Years Since Spaced and Two Decades Since Shaun of the Dead "It's not lost on me. It's amazing. I never wanted to be an actor. I never wanted to act. I never knew what I wanted to do. Even, I was like 30 when we did Shaun of the Dead, and that was the first film I ever did. So I just — and this is going to sound like, I don't want to say actor-y bullshit, but I'm just terribly grateful, I'm amazed, and I just love it. I'm so lucky that I found something that I — there's not one day I've ever been on a set in 25 years where I haven't loved it in some way, shape or form. And to get a chance to do that, and then to start getting bigger and bigger things, it feels like a dream to me, really. Like when I got How to Train Your Dragon and you realise the kind of people who have to say 'yes' before you get the role — that was terribly flattering for me that someone, somewhere, had to say 'yeah, he's the guy. We'll have him'. It's not lost on me how lucky I am every single day. I'm sitting here, someone brings me a coffee‚ it's like 'this is amazing'. It's amazing to me. And I love it. I love making films." How to Train Your Dragon opened in cinemas Down Under on Thursday, June 12, 2025.
On Tuesday, December 17, Chef Keisuke Kita (ex-Nobu and Sushi Baby) quietly opened his 28-seat omakase-style restaurant Nori Maki in Melbourne's CBD. Here, Kita and his crew are combining traditional Japanese cuisine and culinary techniques with contemporary Californian and Melburnian style — placing made-to-order handrolls at the very core of the dining experience. But don't expect your big Aussie-style sushi rolls. These are significantly more classic in their delivery, although Kita has played a little with the recipe, crafting them with a higher nori to rice ratio — really driving that umami flavour home. And while it isn't strictly an omakase restaurant, it is giving real omakase energy. Twenty-three of the 28 seats are overlooking the kitchen, giving you the opportunity to watch the chefs create each of the dishes before serving you directly. Price-wise, you'll also be pleasantly surprised to see a less-than-daunting bill grace the table after experiencing a proper feed at Nori Maki. Its generous set menu omakase experience only costs $69, and it comes with a sashimi plate, four handrolls, a signature roll, chawanmushi and a dessert. That's a damn good price for these eats, especially considering Kita's impressive experience. Not only has he worked as the Head Sushi Chef at Nobu in Melbourne and helped open Atlantic Group's Sushi Baby, but his entire family has a long tradition of working in this field. His family's culinary heritage spans over 180 years and is associated with the highly prestigious Shijoryu cooking tradition. By striking out on his own, he now has a lot more space to play with the art of sushi-making, putting his own contemporary twist on handrolls. Just make sure you get in early as it looks like this small fine-diner is going to fill up fast. You'll find Nori Maki at 7/235 Bourke St, Melbourne (within the newly redeveloped Tivoli Arcade), open 11.30am–9pm from Tuesday–Saturday. For more details, you can check out the venue's Instagram.
Halloween's just around the corner and if you're anything like us you're busy collecting classic horror films to scare your weak-willed friends and family. For those not inclined to dress up as zombies from The Walking Dead and make trouble all over the city, the scary movie marathon is naturally the go-to plan. But it wasn't always that way. Every good horror fan got their start somewhere a little more tame. And, if you were young or shameless enough in the early 1990s, that start was through the work of R.L. Stine. The legendary Goosebumps writer responsible for a ridiculous number of YA hits, R.L. Stine was a God in every primary school. In the popularity pecking order, your coolness was inevitably judged by how many of his books you had read and everyone would have a copy handy to retreat into during reading time. It was the closest thing we could get to the blood and gore our parents wouldn't let us watch on screen. But, what if all that hysteria and literary mystery never had to end? Some bona fide genius on Tumblr has solved all the problems we never knew we had — they've re-imagined our favourite horror flicks as Goosebumps books for adults (or very inappropriate reads for children). Covering classics like Friday the 13th, The Shining, Carrie and Psycho, If It Were Stine looks at all the hardcore stories through the gloriously pulpy lens of Stine. Of course, if these were available in our childhood we would have grown up with serious problems. Paranoia, sleep problems and anxiety to say the least. When I was eight, my dad let me watch The Candyman with him because I thought it was about Willy Wonka. Who knows how I would have turned out had that been avoided. But, on the plus side, these books would make bestsellers for adults. Let's bring it back; make it cool again. Copyright, be damned. Someone should launch a Kickstarter campaign to make this a reality ASAP. Via AV Club. All images via If It Were Stine.
Chef Tom Sarafian's debut restaurant on Smith Street is a 40-seat ode to his grandfather Zareh, whose journey from Egypt to Melbourne sparked a multigenerational love of hospitality. The venue deftly marries the generosity of Middle Eastern hosting with the sleek and moody ambience one would expect from its Collingwood postcode — it's cool, but not cold. At Zareh, the kitchen finds the centre of the room — fully open and built around a charcoal barbecue and woodfired oven by The Brick Chef. The restaurant's menu draws on a mix of Sarafian's family heritage, his stints in renowned Melbourne and London kitchens (Cumulus Inc, Rumi, Petersham Nurseries, St John, to name just a few) and travels through North Africa, the Mediterranean and the Middle East — but is ultimately defined as Armenian-Lebanese. Expect fresh Victorian produce seasoned with 'Mouneh' (pantry goods sourced directly from organic farms in Lebanon) like high-quality za'atar, sumac and pomegranate molasses, plus pine nuts, cedar oak honey and fermented pepper pastes. Zareh's wine list spotlights producers from Armenia and Lebanon, alongside thoughtful local and international labels. Bartender Matt Linklater leads the cocktail program, with a focus on arak (an anise-flavoured alcohol traditionally served in Middle Eastern countries) — including Arak Farid, discovered by Sarafian and partner Jinane Bou-Assi in Lebanon and now imported to Australia for the first time. Notable drinks include the Zareh Gilda Martini, an icy martini laced with arak and finished with Sarafian's take on the classic Gilda, plus a selection of world-class Armenian brandies. The space, designed with Min Tseng and MIC Projects, channels family nostalgia and Beirut's colour palette: soft green banquettes, pink-hued limestone walls and a flowing tahini-coloured curtain, anchored by a warm timber bar wrapped around the open kitchen. There are details nodding to Sarafian's grandparents' house, too — from bar tiles to a retro glass sliding door. Zareh also retails Sarafian signature pantry favourites alongside authentic Lebanese mouneh — distilled waters, vinegars, honey and jams, spices, za'atar and freshly ground sumac — via a partnership with Droubna, a mother-and-daughter team in South Lebanon preserving traditional farming practices and village food culture. It's an invitation to take the flavours home with you. Images: Kristoffer Paulsen
Melbourne's dining scene is no stranger to ambition — and Lexy is no exception. The Flinders Lane restaurant and bar fuses bold design with creative, contemporary pan-Asian fare, delivering an experience that's just as much about style as it is about substance. Designed by Tom Orton and Kim Lai of Brunswick creative studio We Are Humble, the 80-seat venue takes its cues from the worlds of fashion, architecture and theatre. You'll find considered design choices throughout the space, from tan suede upholstery and brushed silver finishes to the shimmering ceiling that evokes a twinkling blanket of starlight, all anchored by an open kitchen that adds to the sense of theatre. There's also a sleek private dining room for more discreet affairs. In the kitchen, Head Chef Oak oversees a menu that blends heritage with rule-breaking flair. Calamansi soy-cured king salmon, for example, is dressed with smoked yarra roe, cucumber and coconut gel. Crispy rice bibimbap is elevated with perilla leaf, nori and egg floss, while an eggplant katsu terrine is given a lift with confit garlic tofu, orange glaze and fennel. Desserts include a sultry dark chocolate mousse served with a mantou rum baba, coffee cream and cherry compote. If you like your dinner with a side of drama, pull up a chair at the four-seat chef's table, where you can get an up-close look at the creative process as it unfolds. Lexy's high-spec equipment includes UNOX combi ovens and a Josper charcoal oven from which Oak and his team are serving the likes of miso-braised leek with burnt cream wasabi, roasted half chicken with yuzu tamarind and charred corn, as well as M9 and M9+ wagyu. Lexy's bar runs on a zero-waste ethos, using fermentation, clarification, tinctures and oleos to craft cocktails that are both inventive and familiar, with a spotlight on native Australian ingredients. There's also an evolving sake list featuring rare drops you won't find anywhere in Australia — except under Lexy's gleaming ceiling.
What music goes best with turning eight-million Lego bricks into the largest collection of life-sized Lego Star Wars models ever assembled? 'Luke's Theme', aka the franchise's main tune? 'The Imperial March' when things get tricky? 'Parade of the Ewoks', just because? That's a question for Ryan McNaught aka Brickman, who has been spending time turning plastic rectangles, squares and other shapes into a recreation of a galaxy far, far away. The end result: Lego Star Wars: The Exhibition, which is a world-first showcase of Lego models based on the George Lucas-created space saga. It'll arrive in Australia in 2025, making its global premiere — and it sparks another question for attendees: which tracks will pair well with walking through this Lego Star Wars wonderland? The force is strong with this one — the Lego-building force, that is. Exactly where all of those millions of Lego bricks will display hasn't been revealed as yet, and neither have exact exhibition dates, but you can start getting as excited as a Skywalker learning how to first use a lightsaber. The full list of models that'll feature also hasn't been unveiled so far, but battle scenes between Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader will be on display, plus Qui-Gon Jinn and Darth Maul duelling, and also Emperor Palpatine's throne flanked by two Royal Guards. If you're in Melbourne and Sydney, you can also get a sneak peek right now — with the first two at Westfield Doncaster from Wednesday, May 1–Monday, May 6, and the third at Sydney Arcade's huge Lego store (the world's largest, in fact) for the month of May. As it constructs an immersive experience and follows in the footsteps of the Jurassic World franchise, which has also scored the Lego treatment from Brickman, Star Wars: The Exhibition has plenty of material to draw upon. On-screen, the series spans the initial film trilogy that released from 1977–83, then the prequels from 1999–2005, then the sequels — including The Force Awakens, The Last Jedi and The Rise of Skywalker — from 2015–2019. Rogue One, Solo, The Mandalorian, The Book of Boba Fett, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Andor, Ahsoka: the list goes on across the big and small screens. There's also TV's The Acolyte, which arrives in June 2024, plus the wealth of animated efforts in the saga. "Building real people and characters is one of the hardest things you can possibly make out of Lego bricks. Each model not only has to represent who it is in incredible detail, but also needs to capture the moment, the emotion, the struggle, the tension," said McNaught about Lego Star Wars: The Exhibition. "Translating those epic scenes, iconic characters and spacecraft from Star Wars into little bricks is really hard and that's why they are rarely done, and even more so on this scale. Nobody has ever recreated these fight scenes at this scale out of Lego before — and I'm excited to be able to help premiere this in Australia for the first time in 2025." Lego Star Wars: The Exhibition will hit Australia in 2025, with when and where still to be revealed — we'll let you know more when it is announced. Head to the exhibition's website to sign up for updates in the interim.
With Japanese-inspired, small-batch baked goods and calming, laidback vibes, Bakemono Bakers has been drawing crowds to a hidden laneway off Little Lonsdale Street since 2019. Following a recent renovation, the unassuming space is attracting more crowds than ever, and for good reason. The chefs blend European traditions and Japanese techniques to create handcrafted products from scratch, which are baked fresh in-house daily. The menu is kept tight and intentional, and while there are some seasonally influenced pastries, Bakemono has a range of signature items that customers continue to line up for time and time and again. These include the plain croissant, an item that exemplifies Bakemono's commitment to producing quality goods. The traditional croissant is prepared over three days and laminated with Isigny Sainte-Mère butter before being carefully baked to golden perfection. Bakemono's shiopan — traditional salt breads — are soft, pillowy and buttery rolls that customers can't get enough of. The renovated space maintains its industrial aesthetic, with details drawing inspiration from Studio Ghibli's Japanese animated fantasy film, My Neighbour Totoro. The dark timber display boxes, which showcase each pastry in all its glory, mimic the medicinal cabinets seen in the movie. In those backlit boxes, you'll find the likes of crowd-favourite twice-baked yuzu and almond croissants, blueberry danishes with mascarpone custard and crumble, soft melon-pans with crackled tops, and honey, sesame and sea salt scrolls that make any amount of time spent in the queue entirely worthwhile. It's best to arrive early, as these coveted baked goods often sell out before midday. Images: Supplied.
2016: what a year. We saw powerful figures do battle on more than one occasion, witnessed pop culture figures return (and unexpectedly flourish), explored multiculturalism in several western nations, examined the impact of unforgiving and inflexible government bureaucracy, and watched a fascist try to dispense with naysayers — and that's just in the realm of film. Many a superhero flick, plenty of remakes and sequels, and the likes of The Hateful Eight, Goldstone, I, Daniel Blake and Green Room can attest to that. We also experienced everything from alien attacks to bear maulings to ghosts needing busting, and we've still only just scratched the surface of the last year at the cinema. In short, it was a great year to be a movie buff. So what's worth watching? Well, Concrete Playground's film critics have been hard at work staring at screens for the past 12 months watching an insane amount of cinema. So here's our picks for the best films of the year — if you only have time to watch ten films this holiday season, be sure to choose these ones. AMERICAN HONEY As directed by Fish Tank and Wuthering Heights' Andrea Arnold, American Honey takes an almost three-hour road trip through the vast, bewildering, heartbreaking disparity between the have and have nots in American society. A streetwise teen looking for a different life proves our guide after she crosses paths with a smooth-talking travelling magazine salesman with an epic rat tail. The latter is the best work of Shia LaBeouf's career, however it's the revelatory efforts of first-timer Sasha Lane as the former — and Arnold's ability to make her film feel as wide-ranging as its roaming narrative, and as intimate as its boxed-in imagery — that packs the strongest punch. Well, that and the eclectic yet expressive mixtape-like soundtrack. — Sarah Ward https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vHOmrolJEiY THE HANDMAIDEN Dripping with sex, Park Chan-wook's adaptation of Sarah Waters' novel Fingersmith is a pulpy, stylish delight. Transplanting the story from Victorian era England to 1930s Korea, the film follows a maid out to steal her mistress's fortune, only for the pair to end up falling in love. Of course there's a lot more to it than that, with the director of Stoker and Oldboy taking viewers on a ride that is both ludicrous and utterly compelling. Aesthetically speaking, every single frame feels perfectly considered, while the twisting narrative will keep you guessing until the end. — Tom Clift MIDNIGHT SPECIAL It's been a great year for showing affection for sci-fi from years gone by — and, before Stranger Things set '80s-loving, TV fans' hearts aflutter, Midnight Special did the same in the cinema. The fourth film from Take Shelter and Mud director Jeff Nichols not only marks his fourth collaboration with the oh-so-great Michael Shannon — and his latest exploration of folks trusting in something bigger than themselves — but also offers an awe-filled, ambitious effort that's also a road movie, a chase thriller, an intimate drama and an otherworldly adventure. — SW THE NEON DEMON Director Nicholas Wending Refn turns his lens on the LA fashion scene with extremely unsettling, occasionally nauseating results. Bringing the same sleek, detached style (punctuated with violence, of course) that he did to his previous films including Drive and Only God Forgives, the Danish provocateur intentionally apes the aesthetic of the world his film inhabits, in order to expose the ugliness underneath. The Neon Demon has its detractors, and understandably so — the last act especially seems designed to test the audience's boundaries. But even those who despise the film would be hard pressed to deny its artistry. — TC CAROL As an actor skilled at bringing complex roles to life, Cate Blanchett just keeps getting better. As a filmmaker fascinated by stories of yearning for a more fulfilling existence, Velvet Goldmine and Far From Heaven director Todd Haynes does too. Combine the two with Patricia Highsmith's ahead-of-its-time 1952 novel The Price of Salt, add a disarmingly delicate performance by Rooney Mara as a shy shopgirl instantly smitten witg Blanchett's glamorous but conflicted older woman, and slow-building romance doesn't get much emotionally resonant and visually radiant than this. — SW DOWN UNDER Although tragically underseen in cinemas, writer-director Abe Forsythe's pitch black comedy set around the Cronulla riots is one of funniest and most insightful Australian films of the decade so far. A satire in the vein of Team America and Four Lions in which the stupidity of the protagonists belies the film's hidden intelligence, Down Under holds a mirror up to the ugly parts of Australian society, while painting bigots and racists as the idiots they so clearly are. Hysterically funny one moment and deeply troubling the next, it's a must see film that feels distressingly relevant today. — TC LA LA LAND It starts with sunshine, colour and song, then often lurks in moody bars and clubs. It spirits aspiring actress Mia (Emma Stone) and avid jazz enthusiast Seb (Ryan Gosling) on a rollercoaster-like romance, and yet doesn't shy away from the pain and heartbreak of both following your passion and falling for someone. It references '50s musicals and '80s pop, but turns its influences into its own tale, proving nostalgic, celebratory and knowing all at once. Yes, Whiplash director Damien Chazelle's La La Land does many things, including bewitch audiences with its block-coloured, big crooning, bittersweet dream about life and love. The film has already been released overseas, but will officially hit cinemas here on Boxing Day. — SW https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n8Xvsjy57X0 HUNT FOR THE WILDERPEOPLE Somehow outdoing his previous effort, the sidesplitting vampire comedy What We Do in the Shadows, Kiwi filmmaker Taika Waititi delivered one of the funniest and most charming films of the year with Hunt for the Wilderpeople. Carried on the shoulders of veteran actor Sam Neill and his talented young costar Julian Dennison, this heartwarming indie about a pre-teen delinquent and his foster father on the run from the authorities in the New Zealand wilderness delivers big laughs and an even bigger emotional payoff, and will endear itself to you even further on second, third, fourth and fifth viewings. — TC THE WAILING Films about cops chasing killers are common. Movies about brutal murders and sinister forces with potentially supernatural elements aren't all that uncommon either. And yet, South Korean effort The Wailing well and truly stands alone within a crowded field — and not just because the slow-burn horror effort clocks in at two and a half hours. It takes its time and still proves packed with everything from gorgeously moody landscapes to an increasingly dark atmosphere, plus the undead, exorcisms, ghosts and the kind of nods to genre greats that most scary movies only wish that they could manage. — SW https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kMqeoW3XRa0 HAIL, CAESAR! While it may strike some as a lesser entry in the Coen Brothers canon — lacking the obvious dramatic heft of something like No Country for Old Men or Inside Llewellyn Davis — this seemingly silly comedy about a blackmail plot in 1950s Hollywood is as ingenious and subversive as anything the siblings have ever made. Ostensibly a love letter to the golden age of movie-making, Hail, Caesar! is in fact a barbed satire about misplaced faith in artificial institutions, from politics to religion to tinsel town itself. Throw in an A-list cast hamming it up and having a ball, and you'd be absolutely screwy not to give it a watch. — TC These are our favourite films of 2016, but we've also put together a list of the best films hardly anyone saw this year — y'know, the ones that sort of went in and out of cinemas without much fanfare but definitely deserve a watch. Co-written by Sarah Ward and Tom Clift.
We're sorry to break it to you, but summer is officially nearing its end. To soften the blow while it's warm or when a freakishly toasty day pops up in the cooler months, why not visit some of Melbourne's rooftop bars? Picture you and your mates, a drink in hand, sun on your face (chaotic Melbourne weather pending) and epic views – what more could you want? We've narrowed down some of those rooftop spots around town for you to check out. Skinny Dog Hotel, Kew Being Kew's only rooftop bar, a couple of drinks at the Skinny Dog Hotel is never a bad idea. A perfect blend of classic pub fare with fresh energy, you can enjoy a cold pint and a delicious meal outside on the deck, or if you prefer the comfort of the indoors, the expansive glass roof means you'll still feel any sun on your skin. Public House, Richmond With a rooftop garden and panoramic views of Melbourne's CBD and beyond, you'll feel miles away at Public House. Plus, the vibes here are always high. There's a happy hour every Friday from 5—8pm, featuring $5 pots, $10 pints, house wines and spirits, and our personal favourite – $14 espresso martinis and margs. Once the sun goes down, it's worth staying around for DJs, which hit the decks from 9pm. Gardiner Hotel, Malvern Tucked into the heart of Malvern, Gardiner Rooftop Terrace offers a stunning escape from the hustle and bustle of Melbourne. Unlike many other rooftop bars in Melbourne, the roof here is retractable, and there is ample heating, so it's perfect for those classic Melbourne days that hit all four seasons in one. Available for exclusive or semi-private events for up to 180 guests, this rooftop is luxe yet relaxed—the perfect spot to kick back with a couple of cocktails. The Provincial, Fitzroy One of Melbourne's best rooftop bars, The Provincial is Fitzroy's latest rooftop gem. Head upstairs for golden hour and watch Brunswick Street come alive, all the while enjoying generous happy hour deals from 5—7pm every day. Whether midday vino, knock-off drinks during the week or a cheeky boogie, The Provincial Rooftop bar has got you covered. Morris House, Exhibition Street Conveniently located in the heart of the Melbourne CBD, Morris House Rooftop is the ultimate city retreat where you can enjoy signature cocktails, share-friendly plates and DJs every Friday and Saturday, as well as panoramic views, of course. Our tip? This spot is famous for its selection of cured meats, house-made focaccia and reimagined pub classics, plus a cocktail menu perfect for any occasion. State of Grace, King Street Perched up high above King Street, State of Grace is one of the top rooftop spots you can get in the Melbourne CBD – perfect for a long lunch on a sunny workday or a glass of the good stuff on a weekend golden hour. If you love a casual vibe, you can never really go wrong with a quick pop-in for a cold beer, summery cocktail or pizza here. Imperial Hotel, Bourke Street Much loved by Melbourne sports fans, what many don't know is that the Imperial Hotel on Bourke Street also has an unrivalled rooftop space. And yes, there is a huge screen up there, too, so you don't miss out on any of the sporting action. And if you're team is losing, simply gaze at the view instead and let all the frustration go. Designed for the everyday punter, the huge range of tap beers and dedicated rooftop menu means you'll never want to leave. The Duke of Wellington, Flinders Street Perched above Melbourne's oldest pub, The Duke Rooftop is a charming drinking hole loved by locals and visitors alike. You'll find cosy undercover nooks, high-top tables for sunny sips and big tables for meals with your mates. Enjoy a tipple while you immerse yourself in views of Flinders Street Station on one side and the MCG on the other. The perfect place for Friday night knock-offs, and everyone else has the same idea, so you'd benefit from leaving work early to nab a spot. Fargo and Co, Richmond Another of Richmond's most popular rooftop bars, Fargo and Co is the perfect spot for a cheeky beverage (or a spritz bucket) and a bite to eat. But the main event here is the famous weekend bottomless brunch sessions. Come night, the terrace is transformed into a pool party paradise, with DJs bringing the beats every Sunday from 2pm. Harlow, Richmond One of the finest bars for Melbourne CBD views, Harlow Rooftop is a great spot to enjoy the sun while you're in the big smoke. The food here is always on point, as are the cocktails, and the weekly specials and Drag Bottomless Brunch make it one of the more lively spots to go for a drink in Melbourne, no matter the occasion. Richmond Club Hotel, Richmond Richmond Club Hotel is a local institution found in the heart of Richmond. The multi-level pub is known for its laidback vibes, simple quality menu items and classic drinks. Pair this with sweeping views of Melbourne's skyline and ultimate sunset views, and you'll soon find out why this place is always packed. For more information on The Pass and perks you can unlock, visit the website. For more bars and restaurants around Melbourne, explore more on Concrete Playground. Images: supplied
Sibling to King & Godfree Deli and Espresso Bar below, Johnny's Green Room is a sunny, relaxed rooftop bar with stunning views across Melbourne. Open from noon til late, daily, it's serving up a Euro-centric cocktail lineup courtesy of drinks guru Matthew Bax (formerly Bar Americano). He's crafting the cocktail list as an ode to Italian outdoor drinking — think sophisticated yet cool sips with a side of people-watching. The wine program then comes from sommelier George McCullough and features mostly Italian drops from both established and emerging winemakers. Celebrity chef and author Karen Martini, who has taken on the role of Culinary Director, has whipped up an Italian-inspired menu that's all about sharing — think 48-hour slow-fermented dough pizzas and stacks of cicchetti — which is great because food tastes better when it's pinched from someone else's plate. Expect a culinary journey from Carlton to the coasts of Italy, minus the jet lag. Owners Jamie Valmorbida and Luca Sbardella also joined forces with architect Dion Hall (known for his work at Music Room, Supernormal, Pidapipo Laboratorio and Rare Hare) to give the place a snazzy makeover at the end of 2023. They've even thrown in a semi-retractable roof, because Melbourne weather. While this venue doesn't have the pool tables and gangsters of the eponymous Johnny's, it does have something of a stylish Italian nightclub vibe, with a varied lineup of resident DJs — as chosen by non-profit Hope St Radio — taking to the decks regularly. What's more, you can expect plenty of high-energy rooftop parties happening throughout the year.
We've all been there. It's 6pm on a Wednesday. You've just commuted home from a long day at the office, and all you want is to switch your brain off with a good doom scroll. The temptation to tap your trusty delivery app in this moment is high. What could be easier than having a takeaway arrive straight to your door? But we all know the truth. From missing items to cold meals and soggy cardboard, the dream of a takeaway is often tastier than the reality. That's why we've partnered with MasterFoods™ to give you three quick and easy midweek dinner ideas that'll curb your cravings and save some precious dollars (and time) without compromising on flavour. Keep reading (and save this article) to have some easy mid-week meals in your kitchen arsenal. [caption id="attachment_1027005" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Supplied[/caption] Zesty Chicken Wrap Rather than ordering a Greek wrap via delivery (which, realistically, will end up a soggy, mushy mess), this 25-minute dish will have you eating a fresh and flavoursome meal before the delivery driver has even left the restaurant. Ingredients: 500 grams of chicken breast MasterFoods™ Lemon and Pepper Seasoning 1 tbsp of olive oil 4 pitas or flatbreads Sliced red onion Sliced tomato Shredded Lettuce Crumbed Feta (optional) MasterFoods™ Zesty Lemon & Herb No Rules Sauce Method: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breast and MasterFoods™ Lemon and Pepper Seasoning. Cook until cooked through. Heat the pita in a dry pan or wrap in foil and warm in the oven for a couple of minutes. To serve, spread a generous spoonful of MasterFoods™ Zesty Lemon & Herb No Rules Sauce onto the warm pita, add your chicken, then top with lettuce, tomato, onion, and feta. Fold, serve and enjoy. [caption id="attachment_1027006" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Supplied[/caption] Smokey BBQ Beef Burger Is there anything worse than a cold burger after a long day? (And dropping $30 for the privilege?) This Smokey BBQ Beef Burger takes just 30 minutes, makes four serves, and guarantees a hot, mouth-watering meal. Ingredients: 500g regular minced beef 1 tbsp MasterFoods™ All Purpose Seasoning 1 tbsp MasterFoods™ Smokey Barbecue Sauce ½ cup panko breadcrumbs 2 white onions, thinly sliced 1 egg 2 tbsp of olive oil 1 large tomato Iceberg lettuce Pickles Method: Add the minced beef, MasterFoods™ All Purpose Seasoning, egg and panko breadcrumbs into a bowl and mix until combined. Thinly slice the onions and squeeze out excess moisture to ensure extra crispiness. Divide the seasoned mince into four balls and set aside while you preheat the barbecue — no need to chill. Turn your barbecue flat plate or griddle to high and place the meatballs down, ensuring you have space between each to smash flat. Each meatball should be loaded with a generous handful of sliced onion before being smashed as flat as possible into the pan or barbecue plate. Cook for 3-4 minutes and flip. After another one to two minutes, add cheese, let it melt and remove from the heat. Toast your buns and load up with salad: tomatoes, iceberg lettuce, pickles, etc. Don't forget the MasterFoods™ Smokey Barbecue Sauce to top it off. Hot tip: If you're a huge fan of sauce, why not also add a squeeze of MasterFoods™ No Rules Zesty Lemon & Herb Sauce as well? [caption id="attachment_1030078" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Supplied[/caption] Chipotle Mushroom Tacos A guaranteed crowd pleaser, this vegan recipe will spice up your midweek dinner rotation. Featuring MasterFoods™ Taco Seasoning Mix of paprika, oregano and cumin, this four-serve recipe packs a punch and will be on your plate in just 30 minutes. Avoid the takeaway tax (and time) and turn your week around with these delicious mushroom tacos. Ingredients: 400g king oyster mushrooms 4 tbsp MasterFoods™ Taco Seasoning Mix 1 small white onion, finely diced 1 tsp tomato paste 2-3 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (for GF version) ¼ cup water 3 tbsp olive oil 1 ripe avocado MasterFoods™ Smokey Chipotle No Rules Sauce 2 limes, halved Pickled red onion Vine-ripened tomatoes, diced Lettuce Vegan sour cream 8 tortillas (flour or corn) Method: Rinse the mushrooms and remove and finely slice the caps. For the stems, make incisions with a fork and pull them apart with your fingers to resemble pulled pork. Heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a heavy-bottomed frying pan, add the chopped onion, and cook gently for about 10 minutes until translucent and lightly browned. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 2-4 minutes until fragrant. Stir in four tablespoons of MasterFoods™ Taco Seasoning Mix and cook for one minute. Mix in the mushrooms, soy sauce, and water, cooking until the liquid is mostly absorbed. Season with pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, then remove from heat. Pre-heat the oven to 180°C. Spread the pulled mushrooms on a baking tray lined with baking paper and bake for 15 minutes to add a nice crunch. Assemble the tacos with pulled mushrooms, chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, pickled onions, and add lime and vegan sour cream or MasterFoods™ Smokey Chipotle No Rules Sauce as a topping. Craving more flavour-packed ideas? Head to MasterFoods™ for inspiration. MasterFoods™ — You Made It. Lead image: Getty Images
What do the Australian comedy scene, YouTube, international festivals, Netflix, wine and picture books all have in common? Aunty Donna have conquered them all. Here's another thing to add to that list: Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves. The Chris Pine (Don't Worry Darling)-, Regé-Jean Page (The Gray Man)-, Michelle Rodriguez (Fast & Furious 9) -and Hugh Grant (Operation Fortune: Ruse de Guerre)-starring film doesn't just bring of Stranger Things' favourite role-playing game back to cinemas — it does so in Australia with Aunty Donna among the cast. Since forming over a decade ago, the Aussie comedy troupe led by Zachary Ruane, Broden Kelly and Mark Samual Bonanno hasn't stopped making audiences laugh — in-person in Australia, online and around the world; while watching the side-splitting Aunty Donna's Big Ol' House of Fun; over a $30 bottle of wine literally called '$30 Bottle of Wine' and while flicking through Always Room for Christmas Pud. Later this year, they'll get folks giggling over their upcoming ABC sitcom Aunty Donna's Coffee Cafe, too. But for now, playing corpses revived by Pine, awakening from their eternal slumbers to talk about century-old battles and cats, does the trick first. Aunty Donna are no strangers to Dungeons & Dragons. Back in 2017, on YouTube Channel Insert Coin, they gave D&D an Aunty Donna twist in a now-classic sketch — one that did for owlbears what 'Morning Brown' has for calling your wake-up cup of caffeine "morning brown". And, a couple of years back, they also endeavoured to create their own D&D monsters. How did those comic ties to Dungeons & Dragons lead to Aunty Donna playing undead in Hollywood's latest D&D flick, and the latest movie based on Hasbro's toys and games after the Transformers series, the GI Joe films, Battleship, Power Rangers and more? We chatted to Ruane, Kelly and Bonanno about their new on-screen stint, comedy goals, D&D podcasts, missing out on the first Fast and the Furious movie, visiting cemeteries, flatlining and getting buried alive. So, just a normal Aunty Donna chat, then. ON LIVING THE DUNGEONS & DRAGONS DREAM Zachary Ruane: "We'd talked about it at length. So, when we first got together as a comedy group, we made a list of goals. This was at a Starbucks in…" Broden Kelly: "Melbourne." Mark Samual Bonanno: "Southern Cross Station." Zachary: "We sat down and we had a list of goals. One of them was a comedy festival show. And on that list was 'if Hollywood ever moves towards a more IP-dependent business structure and Paramount teams up with Hasbro to reboot the Dungeons & Dragons franchise, we' — and this is on the list — 'we would like to do voice work for the Australian release of that film'. We didn't think it was going to happen. I'd pretty much given up on that dream. And then, when we got the call from Paramount, I wept." Mark: "You wept for days." Zachary: "I wept for days." Mark: "It was too much." Zachary: "It was a very emotional experience for me, because that was the final thing to cross off the list, you know — so a really big moment for me and for all of us in our careers." ON COMEDY'S FONDNESS FOR DUNGEONS & DRAGONS Broden: "When I started, I'd never played Dungeons & Dragons before. I only knew it as a board game from the 80s. But being in comedy, Dungeons & Dragons is constantly just adjacent to it. There's so many funny people doing podcasts about it. So if you're in the comedy world — I'd never played it but I've been on every podcast about Dungeons & Dragons. And what it is, it seems to be just a community of people who are very warm and welcoming, and it's a world where you can do everything and nothing's wrong, which is just really fun and cool. It nurtures creativity. It nurtures imagination. Even just from doing this, we've seen how warm that community is." Zachary: "I should say, the film isn't just for those fans. It's really for everyone. It's a romp, it's an adventure." Mark: "Well, it's not about people playing D&D, is it? It's a fun…" Zachary: "It's a romp." Mark: "It's a fun romp set in the world of Dungeons & Dragons. Owlbears..." Broden: "I didn't know an owlbear until I did that sketch, and now I feel ashamed that I didn't know an owlbear before." Mark: "Don't be ashamed!" Zachary: "We watched the film with a big Dungeons & Dragons fan, and she was telling us all the little references. She was saying 'oh, they got perfect and that right'. And then I was like 'that's so crazy' because that was her experience, but then for me who hasn't played it that much, I just had a great time. It's really funny and fun." ON HOW AUNTY DONNA CAME TO BE IN A DUNGEONS & DRAGONS MOVIE Broden: "Well." Zachary: "Well." Mark: "Well, they just kept knocking at our door until we said yes. [To Zachary and Broden] How many times did we turn them down?" Zachary: "We were initially offered the part of — Broden was offered the part that Chris Pine plays in the film, I was offered the Michelle Rodriguez part. Which is funny because I was also offered that part in the first Fast and the Furious film, and I turned it down. And if I had known what franchise would become — oh my goodness!" Mark: "Sometimes you just miss your shot with those kinds of things." Zachary: "Yeah, absolutely. [To Mark] And then you were up for which part?" Mark: "For every other part in the film." Zachary: "So it was going to be a three-hander." Mark: "Originally it was going to be a vehicle for Aunty Donna to promote our YouTube channel — and we were just like, 'we're so busy'. We were so busy. [To Zachary and Broden] What did we have on?" Broden: "A birthday party or something." Mark: "Yeah, we had a party, and we were going to do half a run at Edinburgh Fringe. A two-week run at Edinburgh Fringe." Zachary: "And then when they folded in the Dungeons & Dragons layer to it, because originally it was just a sketch series of ours, it just became a little too big for us. And we said 'you know what, I'm going to handball this to the real professionals over at Hollywood'. And you'll see the film, you'll see — you're going to have a great time." ON PREPARING TO PLAY CORPSES REVIVED BY CHRIS PINE Broden: "I went to a lot of cemeteries, and it didn't do the trick. So I went back with a shovel, and someone stopped me — but I was going to get in there and really…" Mark: "That was me. I was like 'Broden, if you start digging up corpses to play this role, for this role, even though I know that's under false pretences...'. [To Broden] Because you love robbing graves, don't you?" Broden: "Yeah. Yeah. You can't go back from that." Zachary: "We call him da Vinci. He loves robbing graves and drawing really intricate drawings of the bodies." Mark: "Oh and of flight machines." Zachary: "Like Leonardo da Vinci. Me, I flatlined. I did some flatlining, like the movie Flatliners starring Kiefer Sutherland. So I stopped my heart until I was through the tunnel, and then I was reanimated. So I was able to experience death and coming out of it. And I think you'll see that with the corpse when I go [groans and gasps loudly]. That's from a real place." Mark: "Perfectly recreated." Zachary: "Yeah." Mark: "Broden and I ended up — I just buried myself in my backyard, Broden came and dug me up. It was kind of like a role play." Zachary: "How apropos." Mark: "How apropos! [To Broden] And then did you get enough out of that Broden, that experience?" Broden: "Yeah, so we do that every Saturday morning now, where we…" Mark: "Chuck on Cheez TV." Broden: "Yeah, I'll bury Mark in a garden with a little straw out for air." Mark: "Yeah." Broden: "And then I'll dig him up." Mark: "It's just for lunch." Broden: "And then we'll go have lunch at a cafe, or…" Mark: "That's what Hollywood is so great for: bringing friends closer together." Zachary: "I don't flatline anymore. I discovered that there's a darkness in the other realm and I realised that I had to stop." Sarah Ward: "Just like the movie." Aunty Donna [in unison]: "Just like the movie." Check out the new Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves trailer below: Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves opens in cinemas Down Under on March 30.
In Melbourne's fast-moving restaurant scene, some of the best bites and sips are here for a good time, not a long one. That's why, each month, we're scanning menus around town for standout specials worth your time, from seasonal happy hours and brunch spreads to limited-time dishes worth a detour. Here's what's on the specials board this month — get 'em while they're hot. Limitless at Lexy Lexy, Flinders Lane's glam Asian-fusion bar and restaurant, has launched a new bottomless drinks and lunch menu. For 90 minutes, you can enjoy free-flow signature cocktails, wine and tap beers for $69 — and if you're heading back to the office afterwards, you can add a seven-course set menu for an additional $30 that includes fresh Pacific oysters with red chilli granita, coconut and chilli oil, wagyu larb tartlet with cashew cream on a fried betel leaf and a crispy rice bibimbap lifted with perilla leaf, nori and egg floss. The menu is available Tuesday through Saturday, 11.30am–3pm. Find out more here. New summer specials at 98 Lygon East Brunswick's homely neighbourhood bistro 98 Lygon has unveiled new dishes — and an intimate new courtyard space — for summer. Overseen by Head Chef Brian Macalister (Builder's Arms Hotel), the seasonal selection features dishes like shell-baked scallops with wild garlic butter, a shallot tart tatin and market fish with leek beurre blanc. Making a night of it? Head in from 4–6pm daily for the new aperitivo hour, which brings a holiday-mode feel to the intimate new courtyard, with a complimentary snack for every two cocktails. Find out more here. Sunday roast at Rufio St Kilda rooftop hangout Rufio is putting a Latin twist on the classic Sunday roast — and it'll only set you back $30. Swing by from midday for your pick of smoke-roasted picanha, crispy pork belly or a vegetarian filet champignon loaf, plus sides like roast potatoes, chipotle pumpkin, sweetcorn salsa and a gluten-free Yorkshire pud. You can finish it with bone marrow jus or chimichurri, depending on your mood. Find out more here. Christmas treats at Pidapipo Once again, Pidapipo is going all-in on Christmas this year, kicking off with the return of its cult-fave Pandoro Gelato Cake. This year, it's sporting a raspberry chocolate exterior and an edible milk-chocolate bauble you can hang on the tree, while the inside is a full festive stack, layered with chocolate, cherry cream and sour cherry gelato, strawberry and cream gelato, redcurrant jam, redcurrant straciatella gelato and pandoro sponge. Those baubles, handmade from single-origin Dominican Republic chocolate, are also available to purchase individually, with packs of four sold in keepsake tins. And, throughout December, the gelateria will be scooping a whole slate of limited-edition flavours — think fig leaf and redcurrant swirl, mangomisu, lime and cucumber sorbetto and, of course, a Christmas pudding flavour — rolling out across all stores. Find out more here. A grand festive feast at Collins Kitchen Grand Hyatt Melbourne's Collins Kitchen is cranking its famous buffet into festive mode this December. Expect an all-you-can-eat spread that spans grill and woodfired favourites to fresh seafood, sashimi, festive desserts and a dark-chocolate fountain for good measure. It kicks off on Thursday, December 4, with lunch buffets on Thursdays and Fridays and dinner seatings from Thursday through Saturday. Get the details here. Christmas hampers are back at Maha Maha has brought back its much-loved Christmas hampers — a luxe heat-and-eat feast designed for two. This year's spread covers all the hits, from seafood starters, housemade dips, honey-glazed carrots and freshly baked Iraqi flatbread to heavy hitters like slow-roasted lamb shoulder and Turkish beef dumplings. Desserts keep the festive mood going, with Christmas pudding, rocky road, mixed Turkish delight and a ready-to-bake brownie mix. Hampers are $125 per person, with pre-orders open now and available for pick-up from Bar Jayda on December 23 and 24. Find out more here.
Twelve months after State of Grace served its last drinks on Collins Street, shutting up shop along with its secret cellar bar Fall From Grace, the city hot-spot has made a triumphant return. Resurrected in style — and this time sporting a new King Street address — the well-loved venue has made one hell of a comeback. Here, old-world decor meets contemporary flair with a touch of the experimental. Mirrors, marble and chandeliers abound through both the European-style restaurant at street level and the hidden drinking den tucked below. Like the original, the latter is accessed through a bookshelf, though it's swapped the soaring ceilings for an intimate den, scattered with lounges and vintage knick-knacks. From the kitchen comes a share-friendly, modern Australian offering with a European edge. It's a modern take on bistro fare, sporting dishes like Aylesbury duck breast with crispy duck leg, rhubarb and freekah ($36); gnocchi with sage and black garlic purée ($28); and scallops teamed with apple, black pudding and candied bacon ($23). An extensive selection of grazing bites is sure to prove a hit with the after-work crowds, featuring bites like freshly shucked oysters ($5 each), prawn and prosciutto croquettes ($14), and a chicken liver pâté matched with jammy orange curd and brioche ($17). Behind the bar, classic cocktails sit alongside clever signatures, like the Little Hell ($19) — a blend of gin, Campari, apple and blood orange with a hint of rosemary — a Charged Negroni ($24), with dark rum and coffee, and the Saving Grace ($19), a salted caramel-spiked espresso martini. Late last year, the newly reopened (and relocated) State of Grace added to Melbourne's burgeoning rooftop bar scene, launching its own sky-high drinking hole. With impressive views across the city, the rooftop is serving up a succinct lineup of snacks — including grilled haloumi, chicken liver pâté and cured meats — and classic and untraditional pizzas (think cheeseburger and fried chicken toppings for the latter).
People seeking thalassotherapy — swimming in saltwater for health and wellness — have been taking in the enclosed sea waters of Brighton Baths since 1881. A day pass to the Brighton Baths Health Club gives you access to the only private beach and boardwalk in Victoria. Do some laps, float around in a complimentary inflatable tube, and maybe rent a paddleboard or kayak. Then, wander along the enclosed boardwalk to dry off and admire the sea view from every angle. If you've fallen in love with this spot (we don't blame you), also consider becoming a member, which gives you year-round access to the indoor and outdoor gyms, steam room, classes and SUP/kayak hire, too.
If Melbourne's famous for anything, it's a sense of discovery. Nothing beats the absolute thrill of ducking down a laneway, following the scent of coffee, and stumbling into something you didn't even know you were looking for. In one particularly special part of the city — Little Collins street — that discovery will bring you to Hotel Indigo Melbourne Little Collins. The hotel and its close neighbours are stitched together from historic buildings that once housed everything from Turkish baths to grand music retailers. Inside, things get even cooler. Its interiors are threaded with local stories, from a statement spiral staircase inspired by the drapery sold by Sidney Myer (yes, the founder of the eponymous department store) to a huge lobby mural by renowned Melbourne artist Lisa King. Best of all, the hotel's position on Little Collins street puts you right in the centre of Melbourne's CBD. Here's how to plan your next weekend exploring the neighbourhood. Begin in the Laneways Forget Google Maps for a while. The best part of this Melbourne neighbourhood is its grid-like layout, meaning it's almost impossible to get lost. In fact, the laneways around Little Collins are best explored without a plan. Hosier Lane is the obvious icon, its walls splashed with artwork and graffiti. But veer off course and you'll also stumble upon AC/DC Lane with its nod to Aussie rock, or Centre Place where tiny cafes and restaurants are packed with the local lunch crowd. Take Coffee Seriously It might sound cliché, but in this neighbourhood coffee really is the fuel that keeps everything moving. Pellegrini's, which opened in 1954, is a time capsule of Melbourne's espresso beginnings, when Italian immigrants kickstarted the city's coffee culture. Nearby, Brother Baba Budan is instantly recognisable for the chairs hanging from its ceiling, and Dukes on Flinders Lane is where the locals queue for their morning fix. Staying nearby means you're never more than a few minutes from a genuinely great cup. Dine Like a Local Melbourne is nothing if not a food city and around Little Collins, you'll find flavours from every corner of the globe within walking distance. Fern Bar and Dining, tucked inside Hotel Indigo, is a slick all-day spot where menus lean into seasonal Victorian produce and good vibes. It's perfect for a pre-theatre bite or early-morning brekky. Venture outside the hotel and you're spoiled for choice: Cumulus Inc serves refined share plates in a converted warehouse, Grossi Florentino is your go-to for old-school Italian, and Embla is the best place to crack a bottle of natural wines and seriously good bar food. Our best advice? Come hungry. Soak Up The Architecture From gothic banks to Victorian-era buildings and Art Deco beauties, Melbourne's skyline is a result of decades of boom and reinvention. Design lovers will want to check out the Gothic Revival spires atop the Manchester Unity Building, look up at Gaunt's Clock in Royal Arcade, and explore the intricate mosaic floors inside the Block Arcade. If you're planning a trip for next winter, Open House Melbourne also gives you the rare chance to peek inside heritage buildings usually closed to the public. Around here, even the spaces between buildings are just as interesting as what's inside them. The Perfect Base When you're done wandering, Hotel Indigo Melbourne Little Collins makes for a fitting place to land. Home to 179 modern, stylish rooms, it's built in a historic building and filled with nods to the neighbourhood. With a beautiful lobby area, luxe outdoor courtyard garden, and views across the city from almost every window, the space feels less like a cookie-cutter hotel and more like a continuation of the streets outside. Want to stay in the thick of it? Find out more about Hotel Indigo Melbourne Little Collins here.
The spirit of janchi — the traditional Korean feast shared during life's most meaningful milestones, from birthdays to graduations and job promotions — is alive and well at Dodam, a homely and heartfelt restaurant in East Brunswick Village. Co-founded by Jacky Kim, Jin Jung and Mars Kim, the 48-seat venue invites diners into an intimate, detail-rich space designed to evoke, per Jacky, "a small journey to Korea right here in Brunswick East". Built on the belief that a joy shared is a joy doubled, Dodam is rooted in community. Jacky and Jin — a Korean language teacher and seasoned chef, respectively — began dreaming up the concept after they moved into one of the upstairs apartments. A chance conversation with one of the building's security guards led them to pitch their idea for a modern Korean restaurant, which was quickly embraced by the property management. The husband and wife enlisted longtime friend and fellow chef Mars Kim, and together, they've created a restaurant that's both deeply personal and proudly traditional, with a menu that pays homage to home-cooked Korean meals. As such, craftsmanship and comfort are the heart of the menu. Dodam's signature Korean Meat Feast is built for sharing, a choose-your-own-adventure of grilled and braised meats like soy-marinated short ribs, spicy pork hock or grilled pork belly served with ssamjang, fresh veggies and homemade banchan. You'll also find handmade mandu (both meat and veg), a delicately wrapped bibimbap folded inside an egg crepe and soolsang, a tapas-style spread of small seasonal dishes served in custom-made plates shaped like a traditional makgeolli bottle. A fluffy mango bingsu crowned with sweet fruit and snow-like shaved ice rounds out the menu with a refreshing finish. The same level of care extends to the drinks. Dodam brews its own makgeolli in-house for up to ten days — the mix is hand-stirred every 12 hours for the first two days to foster healthy fermentation and to elevate its natural sweetness and light fizz. The interiors, designed by Remmus Architecture, blend traditional Korean motifs with personal touches. Moon jars, handcrafted plates, mother-of-pearl inlay and bojagi patchworks share space with walls hand-painted by Jin and Mars, creating a cosy and casual dining room that feels like a little pocket of Seoul in the heart of the inner north. Images: Stephanie Bailly.
Maverick is the new contemporary brunch venture from brother-sister duo Adam and Elisa Mariani, the same brains behind Richmond local favourite Mayday Coffee & Food. A playful space filled with deep navy accents and pale pink terrazzo, their latest venue is nestled within the sleek new 80 Collins Street precinct. Settle into a booth or perch at the central communal table to enjoy pastries from Richmond's Penny for Pound and speciality coffee by Axil. From the kitchen comes a seasonal menu of creative brunch fare, starring updated classics alongside familiar favourites. Melbourne mornings are made far more palatable with the likes of thick-cut rye topped with mushrooms, hazelnuts and smoked curd ($17), or the house-made pastrami benedict featuring lashings of bearnaise sauce atop potato hash ($19.50). A herb-roasted chicken roll comes loaded with avocado and buttermilk dressing ($17), the chilli scrambled eggs are infused with three types of cheese ($19), and the answer to that sweet tooth craving lies in the waffles, crowned with fresh strawberries and double cream ($18). [caption id="attachment_774224" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Maverick, CBD[/caption] Looking for something a little stronger than coffee with your lunch? Maverick's daytime-friendly drinks list extends to a considered handful of Aussie wines, local tinnies and classic cocktails, martini included. Dishes and drinks are available from 7am.
Little monsters, get excited: Lady Gaga is coming to Australia. Been watching with envy as the music superstar has locked in dates on The MAYHEM Ball tour everywhere from Las Vegas, New York and Toronto to London, Stockholm, Berlin and Paris? You can now start making plans to see Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta on her next Down Under visit, with shows confirmed for Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney. Lady Gaga is heading this way in December 2025, with three gigs announced: on Friday, December 5 at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne, then Tuesday, December 9 at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane and Friday, December 12 at Sydney's Accor Stadium. When the 14-time Grammy Award-winner takes to the stage at the trio of massive concerts, she'll not only play her first Australian shows in 11 years — she'll do her first-ever Australian stadium concerts as well. [caption id="attachment_998819" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Frank Lebon[/caption] The tour kicks off in Las Vegas in July, after Lady Gaga headlines Coachella — which everyone worldwide can livestream across both of the Californian festival's two weekends on Saturday, April 12–Monday, April 14 and Saturday, April 19–Monday, April 21 Australian time. Before The MAYHEM Ball tour begins, she's also doing shows in Mexico City, Singapore and Rio de Janeiro. Given that this is Gaga's first Aussie visit since 2014's ArtRave: The ARTPOP Ball gigs (with the Joanne and Chromatica Ball tours bypassing this part of the world), expect tickets for the local leg to go fast. When she added 13 new dates to the initially announced first shows on the tour, they all sold out swiftly. As the name makes plain, Germanotta is touring on the back of MAYHEM, her latest album — and seventh in a row to go to number one on the Billboard 200. It also debuted in the top spot on Australia's charts, and gave Gaga her biggest streaming week ever by notching up 240-million streams on its first week alone. As well as MAYHEM tracks such as 'Disease', 'Abracadabra' and 'Die with a Smile', fans can likely look forward to hits from across the artist's career, such as 'Poker Face', 'Bad Romance', 'Paparazzi', 'Born This Way' and 'Rain on Me' — plus, of course, seeing Gaga live onstage, rather than getting your fix via her film work in recent years in A Star Is Born, House of Gucci and Joker: Folie à Deux. Lady Gaga's The Mayhem Tour Australia 2025 Dates Friday, December 5 — Marvel Stadium, Melbourne Tuesday, December 9 — Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane Friday, December 12 — Accor Stadium, Sydney Lady Gaga is touring Australia in December 2025, with ticket presales starting at 10am on Monday, April 14 and general sales from 12pm on Thursday, April 17 — with times varying per city. Head to the tour website for more details. Live images: Raph PH via Flickr.
Some curiosity is required to locate W Melbourne's aptly named subterranean cocktail bar. Find it along the CBD's Market Street, behind a rather inconspicuous door and down a gilded, dimly lit staircase. The award-winning space feels like a cocoon: dark timber twists overhead a moody, stony bar, and plush blue and red seats. The deliberate blend of colour, shape and texture feels like an immersive, surrealist art piece — an appropriate accompaniment to the drinks list. The menu fluctuates, but the autumnal 2025 'Elemental Playground' focused on the base elements of fire, earth, air and water. Take After the Rain, with the cooling combo of Yuzushu, cucumber, basil, bubbles and petrichor pearls, or Honey, I Burnt the Beets with its warm flavour palette of Tiny Friday Pisco, Olmeca Altos Plata, beetroot, burnt toffee, goat's whey and tuille. The food is at a similar level of excellence. Bar snacks and big bites are in equal quantities, but they're all seriously moreish. Go simple with guac and chips, fries or marinated olives, or step it up to a seafood tower or a lobster grilled cheese. Word to the wise: you should definitely save some room for dessert. Pencil in a booking or try your luck with a walk-in, but you should make it happen on a Wednesday, Thursday, Friday or Saturday night, when the live vinyl DJ programming kicks in from 6pm till late.
In the age of streaming, DVD commentary tracks are no longer as much a part of the home-viewing process. If you're keen to hear insider details about the making of Sydney-shot 1999 sci-fi great The Matrix and 2025's Melbourne-made horror hit Together, however, SXSW Sydney has you covered. 2025's event has unveiled more details of its Screen Festival program for this year, with the return of its Screen Commentary sessions among the highlights. Costume designer Kym Barrett, who has also worked on everything from Baz Luhrmann's Romeo + Juliet, The Nice Guys, The Shallows, Aquaman and Us to Charlie's Angels, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings and Three Thousand Years of Longing — and on The Matrix Reloaded and The Matrix Revolutions, plus the Wachowskis' Speed Racer, Cloud Atlas and Jupiter Ascending — will talk through her efforts on The Matrix as the film plays. For Together, writer/director Michael Shanks will dig into his debut feature, which also opened 2025's Sydney Film Festival. SXSW Sydney has also announced Screen conference sessions as part of its roster of seminars, workshops and more, with Whitney Fuller, the Development Executive of Jordan Peele's Monkeypaw Productions, one of the big names. Fittingly, Fuller will be part of the festival's Women in Genre panel. Also, producer Liz Watts (The Royal Hotel) and filmmaker Tony Ayres (The Survivors) are teaming up for the What Is an Australian Story? session, while Fantastic Festival Director Lisa Dreyer, Rachel Watt from Watt Social, Yellow Veil Pictures' Joe Yanick and Oscilloscope's Alexandra Fredericks are set to get chatting as well. The panel lineup also spans Jill Kingston from Pacific Shadow Pictures, Enzo Tedeschi and Helen Tuck from Deadhouse Films, and Lake Martin Films' Kate Separovich unpacking all things indie horror from a filmmaking perspective, as well as Invention Studios' Carmen Knox and actor Remy Hii (Arcane) on deciding whether to make the leap to LA. SXSW Sydney's latest screen-centric additions join Paul Feig (Another Simple Favour) hitting the Harbour City as the Screen Festival keynote speaker and its first recipient of the new SXSW Sydney Screen Pioneer Award — and also a 14-hour Freaks and Geeks marathon, plus sessions of Bridesmaids and The Heat, to go along with his time at the fest. There's more to come; however, as similarly announced earlier, viewers will also be able to catch By Design, $POSITIONS, Dead Lover, Zodiac Killer Project, The Last Sacrifice and Bokshi. Among that group, body-swap effort By Design features Juliette Lewis (The Thicket), Mamoudou Athie (Kinds of Kindness) and Robin Tunney (Dear Edward); horror-comedy Dead Lover is a SXSW Austin award-winner; Charlie Shackleton (The Afterlight) digs into a famed serial killer; and everything from comedy to folk horror features. [caption id="attachment_967878" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jaimi Joy[/caption] [caption id="attachment_923287" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brendon Thorne/Getty Images for SXSW Sydney[/caption] [caption id="attachment_923317" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brendon Thorne/Getty Images for SXSW Sydney[/caption] SXSW Sydney 2025, including the SXSW Sydney Screen Festival, runs from Monday, October 13–Sunday, October 19 at various Sydney venues. Head to the SXSW Sydney website for further details and tickets. The Matrix image: Ronald Siemoneit/Sygma/Sygma via Getty Images. Together image: Ben King, Neon.
You've probably heard a thing or two about POP MART. In recent times, the Chinese toy maker has taken the world by storm with its viral figurines and plush monsters, like the all-conquering Labubu. Now the brand is ready to launch its newest Melbourne location on Bourke Street, with the ribbon being cut on Saturday, July 19. This is no ordinary POP MART store either. Themed entirely around one of the brand's most iconic characters, SKULLPANDA, motifs of this dark and whimsical symbiont will make the destination an even more immersive visit for fans and curious shoppers. This approach to store design is just one way POP MART is changing the retail game in Australia. "Bourke Street is one of Melbourne's most iconic shopping strips and the perfect place for us to grow our community," says POP MART Australia and New Zealand General Manager Yuki Wu. "This store's SKULLPANDA theme sets it apart. We're inviting fans to step inside a world they know and love, discover exclusive products, and be part of something special." Inside, visitors can expect wall-to-wall collectibles, from limited-edition releases to new arrivals that you won't find anywhere else. Plus, launch events are planned across the opening weekend, including a special guest appearance that might send fans into a tizzy. Get down from 10 am to see the ribbon cut and be among the first to explore this striking retail concept.
For almost 30 years, December 21 Down Under has been known as Gravy Day. The reason: Paul Kelly's 'How to Make Gravy', which released in 1996. The best way to mark the occasion, of course, has always included making gravy and listening to the song. But in 2024, there'll be another way to celebrate: watching the movie adapted from Kelly's tune. News that the flick was coming initially dropped in 2022, with musician Meg Washington and writer/director Nick Waterman announcing that they'd locked in the rights to make the song into a film. Then, Australian streaming platform Binge revealed that it's behind the movie, marking its first-ever original feature — and that it'd hit this year. Now, the movie version of How to Make Gravy has a release date, arriving on streaming on Sunday, December 1. How to Make Gravy, the film, also now boasts a trailer. So, if you've been wondering how a tune becomes a movie, here's a glimpse. The Royal Hotel co-stars Daniel Henshall (RFDS) and Hugo Weaving (Slow Horses) feature as Joe and Noel. The first hails from the song — he's the prisoner who writes to his brother Dan to kick things off — while Noel is a new addition. Also starring: Brenton Thwaites (Titans) as Dan, Kate Mulvany (The Clearing) as Joe's sister Stella and Damon Herriman (now that he's no longer playing Charles Manson in both Mindhunter and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood) as her husband Roger. French actor Agathe Rousselle from Titane, who is making her first English-language film, also features as Joe's wife Rita. And yes, there's a Frank and a Dolly, aka Joe's twin daughters (newcomer Rose Statham and Christmas on the Farm's Izzy Westlake) — and an Angus, Joe's son (Jonah Wren Phillips, Sweet Tooth). Still on names from the music, Eloise Rothfield (Boy Swallows Universe) is Dan's daughter Mary, while Eugene Gilfedder (Babyteeth) and Kym Gyngell (The Artful Dodger) are brothers Gary and Murray. Kieran Darcy-Smith (Mr Inbetween) is also among the cast as new character Red — and with Washington one of the picture's driving forces, Adam Briggs, Brendan Maclean, Dallas Woods, Patience Hodgson and Zaachariaha Fielding are among the musicians with cameo roles. There's no word yet if Kelly pops up as the film tells of Joe's family's preparations to spend their first Christmas without him. Check out the trailer for How to Make Gravy below — and, because you've likely now got it stuck in your head, the music video for the song as well: How to Make Gravy will stream via Binge from Sunday, December 1, 2024. Images: Jasin Boland.
Brimming with restaurants, cafes, bars and boutiques, Collingwood and its surrounds has become one of Melbourne's most vibrant areas. From bustling Smith Street into Abbotsford and the leafy corridors around Victoria Park, there are so many different places to explore in these once overlooked neighbourhoods. To help you find your way around, we've teamed up with American Express to put together a guide to the best local shops and traders in the area. Whether you're after vintage threads, Scandinavian furniture, rare streetwear, or locally produced beer and wine, you can be sure that a visit to any of the shops on this list will have you supporting businesses in your community. Plus, all these spots will accept your American Express Card, so you'll be able to shop small without any hassle.
Fable is taking the concept of sky-high sips to a whole new level — at a lofty 14 storeys above Lonsdale Street, it has swiftly claimed the title of Melbourne's tallest rooftop bar. The latest venture from hospitality veteran Gehan Rajapakse (The Sofitel, Hyde Bar, Rah Bar), it's a plush, Mediterranean-inspired affair. The space rocks an elegant fit-out, along with exceptional panoramic views on show through the bar's huge wraparound windows and retractable roof. You'll also find a creatively charged menu of libations led by Bar Manager Chantalle Narith. It's a considered lineup with a penchant for storytelling and history, filled with many clever — sometimes cheeky — reworkings of the classics. Expect two pages of martini variations, and a stiff scotch and brandy cocktail that pays homage to the Icarus myth which arrives at the table alight ("be careful not to get too close to the flame, or like Icarus, down you will fall"). Each page of the menu is a pleasure to read, and the cocktails are as good as they sound. Meanwhile, Executive Chef Alex Xinis (Press Club) is plating up a Mediterranean-accented food menu with a taste for decadence. Match those sunset views with Yarra Valley trout caviar blinis, grilled halloumi with blistered grapes and sherry vinegar, or hot focaccia bites dipped in white taramasalata. [caption id="attachment_832319" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Aaron Francis[/caption] Images: Aaron Francis and Nicole Cleary
If you've made it to Cecconi's, congratulations: you're an adult now. Cecconi's is the grandaddy of Italian restaurants in Melbourne, and it looms over Melbourne like a well-dressed, well-made man of success. And if you find yourself here — whether it's on a mate date or for your Dad's 60th birthday — you can take a second to high five yourself. Because this is what dining out ought to be. Although, forgive our masculine connotations with the place, because the person behind this place is a woman. Olimpia Bortolotto is the matriarch at the helm of Cecconi's — and has been since 1998 when the restaurant initially opened at Crown. Moving to Flinders Lane eight years later, the Bortolotto family have continued to keep the Italian restaurant at an incredibly high calibre. This may be white tablecloth stuff, but Cecconi's is anything but stuffy. Each dish — from the pappardelle to the veal cotoletta to the tiramisu — is basically faultless. These guys have been doing this for a long time now, and nothing could be more brilliantly obvious. Appears in: Where to Find the Best Pasta in Melbourne for 2023
Victoria may be Australia's second smallest state in terms of area, but it sure does pack a punch when it comes to scenic variety. Within a couple of hours' drive from Melbourne, there are majestic mountain ranges, towering clifftops, bluer-than-blue bays, rich green farming country and idyllic vineyards. So much diversity in such a small area makes for ideal walking conditions — and you don't have to wander far to be well-rewarded for your efforts. Get to know the Garden State a bit more intimately with the five best multi-day hikes near Melbourne. As always, be sure to check the Parks Victoria website to see if the trails are safe to walk before visiting. Recommended reads: The Best One-Day Hikes Near Melbourne The Best Waterfalls Near Melbourne That You Can Swim Under The Best Coastal Walks Near Melbourne The Best Hidden Swimming Holes In and Around Melbourne [caption id="attachment_712105" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Wilsons Promontory National Park via Visit Victoria[/caption] The Southern Prom Circuit, Wilsons Promontory National Park The Southern Prom is one of Victoria's most popular multi-day hikes. To get going, drive to the trailhead at Telegraph Saddle Car Park (about 220 kilometres southeast of Melbourne). Wilsons Promontory is home to some of Australia's most magical beaches and this walk visits many of them; from the protected turquoise waters of Sealers Cove, to Oberon Bay, backdropped by Oberon Mountain. In between, you'll explore tea tree forests, rugged headlands, sheer granite cliffs and undulating heathlands. Set up at campsites as you go (bookings required) and/or reward yourself with a sleepover in one of the Wilsons Promontory Lightstation Cottages. How long? Three-to-five days. [caption id="attachment_923808" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ben Savage for Visit Victoria[/caption] Grampians Peaks Trail, Grampians National Park If fresh mountain air, 360-degree views and shimmering lakes are on your mind — and you're not afraid of a bit of climbing — then the Grampians Peaks Trail is for you. Lace up your boots at Halls Gap (about 250 kilometres northwest of Melbourne) and stride out. The 36-kilometre-long trail is a circuit and, for the best vistas, anti-clockwise is the way to travel. Keep an eye out for the natural rock pools of Venus Baths, where you can take a refreshing dip, the impressive rock formations of the Grand Canyon, legendary Pinnacle Lookout, and Mount Rosea summit which affords awe-inspiring panoramas of the Serra and Mount William Ranges. There are three campgrounds along the way: Bugiga, Stoney Creek Group Camp and Borough Huts. How long? Three days. [caption id="attachment_923802" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Mark Watson for Visit Victoria[/caption] Great Ocean Walk, Apollo Bat to Port Campbell Chances are you've driven at least some part of the Great Ocean Road. Now it's time to walk it. The 100-kilometre-long Great Ocean Walk starts at Apollo Bay — about 200 kilometres southwest of Melbourne — and sticks to the coast all the way to Port Campbell (home to the Twelve Apostles). Just a few of the extraordinary sites you'll see along the way include Cape Otway Lighthouse, Melanesia Beach, Moonlight Head and Wreck Beach — where the melancholic remains of the Marie Gabrielle and the Fiji lie. Carry a tent and self-cater along the way, with seven hike-in campsites available to pre-book. Or stay at your pick of Great Ocean Road BnBs, hotels and guest houses, feasting at local eateries. How long? Eight days. [caption id="attachment_650218" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Visit Victoria[/caption] Great Walhalla Alpine Trail, Walhalla to Mount Baw Baw Alpine Village If heights are your thing, then make your next adventure the Great Walhalla Alpine Trail. This 40-kilometre trek is just a teeny-tiny section of the massive Australian Alps Walk; a 650-kilometre track that travels through Australia's high country. The abbreviated version features the former gold mining town of Walhalla at one end of the Walhalla Trail and Mount Baw Baw Alpine Village at the other. You get to decide whether you walk uphill (from Walhalla) like a hard-core mountaineer, or tackle the slightly easier route running the opposite direction. Either way, you can count on wildflowers (during spring), sculpture-like snow gums, enchanting myrtle beech forests, rushing rivers and majestic mountain views. Camping options include O'Sheas Mill and the peaceful clearing at Mushroom Rocks, though facilities can be limited. How long? Two-to-three days. Wilderness Coast Walk, Croajingolong National Park The Wilderness Coast Walk is a lengthy one, with the Victorian stretch running over 80 kilometres from Sydenham Inlet in Croajingolong National Park, right through to Mallacoota. As the name suggests, this rugged track follows a remote coastline most of the way, transporting you to lonely beaches fringed by national park, pristine river estuaries and dramatic headlands that look like scenes out of 19th century ocean-going novels. Expect to meet loads of wildlife, from whales (in season), to seals, to sea birds. Most areas are inaccessible by vehicle and accommodation takes the form of rustic campsites. You'll also want to be handy with a map, with some experience under your belt. Want more? Trek 55 kilometres further east from Mallacoota to reach Nadgee Nature Reserve in New South Wales. These multi-day hikes in Victoria are some of the best out there. How long? Seven-to-eight days. Top Images: Grampians National Park by Ben Savage and LVDI for Visit Victoria.
Melbourne is chock-full of rooftop bars, but there's always room for more. Especially when they come in the form of Melbourne Place's Mid Air. Completed at the end of 2024, this hotel rooftop bar is an absolute stunner, from its mid-century modern design and city views to the next-level Med-inspired eats and cocktails. It's hitting all the right spots, much thanks to Hatted Young Chef of the Year Nicholas Deligiannis (ex-Audrey's). He's running the food program for the whole hotel — excluding Marmelo and Mr Mills — but Mid Air gets most of his love. Being a rooftop digs, there's a strong focus on small bites — perfect for those spending long lunches sipping and snacking in the sun. Start with fresh oysters and scallops with urfa and kelp butter before moving on to some damn tasty skewers. These will change somewhat regularly, but if you make it for the wagyu and quail renditions, be sure to add a few to the table. Those looking to remove all decision-making from the rooftop dining process can also opt for the $95 per person tasting menu. Cocktails, like the food, will change seasonally, with plenty of signature sips adorning the list. They cover all bases, from the fruity and sour side of the spectrum right through to rich and bitter amaro-heavy tipples. The bloody mary is also a must-try, especially if you're dropping by for a boozy weekend brunch. Yup, these folks are also opening up the rooftop to non-hotel guests every day of the week, making the most of the space. Get around shakshuka, eggs royal, house granola and damn good breakfast roll packed with bacon, hashbrowns, cheddar, tomato jam and a fried egg. This spot is picture-perfect, especially if you can nab a seat by the large cut-out circles in the open-air part of the rooftop bar. Here, you get uninterrupted views of the city, plus all of the sunshine. But most of Mid Air lies beneath a retractable roof, so you can enjoy a moody rainy Melbourne day up here without a worry. It's an absolute banger of a Melbourne rooftop bar — open from breakfast right through to late-night cocktails. And it just so happens to be perched right on top of one of Melbourne's best hotels. If you really want to treat yourself, consider booking a stay in one of the top-class rooms so you can take in more of these views and stunning interiors. Images: Kristoffer Paulsen.
