Sydney's oldest pub, the Fortune of War, reopened in May 2025, ready to receive guests again almost 200 years after it first opened. Relaunching with the new 60-seat Bistro 1828 and an expansive breakfast offering, the venue's next chapter is bound to be a bright one in its enduring history. Nestled in a heritage-listed building, two neighbouring retail stores and a bar were carefully transformed to create the new bistro, with its name serving as a nod to the year former convict Samuel Terry founded this venerable institution. While the venue was revamped, maintaining its old-world character was a vital consideration for WDS Hotels group co-owner Steve Speed. Inside, design details reflect the building's immense legacy, from beaten copper panelling to 19th-century medicine bottles and old maps. Says Speed: "We had outgrown the previous space, so by opening Bistro 1828, more people are able to enjoy the historic charm, character and sense of community that accompanies every visit to Sydney's oldest pub." From its home on the corner of George and Globe Streets, the bar offers a mix of high, table and bench seating. Slide into the Italian leather banquettes to sip down a cold brew as the sun streams in through the stained-glass windows. Then, in the main dining room, floor-to-ceiling windows and an elevated rear space provide several cosy spots to suit your mood. Meanwhile, a new open kitchen slots between these zones, significantly increasing the venue's capabilities, with an extensive breakfast offering an exciting addition. Led by Executive Chef Mark Williamson (The Woollahra Hotel), the menu spans classic and signature options, like avo on toast, eggs benedict and breakfast burgers, alongside the Fortune of War big breakfast. Plus, there's a bloody mary made with the pub's secret recipe set to give your day a boost. The venue's all-day dining menu is available to order from in the original pub, Bistro 1828 or amid the sunny al fresco area. Regulars will be happy to know that much-loved favourites like the beef and Guinness stew and the fish and chips are still on the menu, while Williamson has added fresh salads, pastas and shared starters. The Fortune of War's accommodation has also received a complete renovation, with the upstairs Russell Boutique Hotel ready for bookings. Featuring 28 rooms with unique designs, each offers a sophisticated blend of modern comforts and vintage charm, from antique furnishings to marble fireplaces. "[The Fortune of War] has been a destination watering hole for almost 200 years, and this renovation will ensure it stays that way for the next 200," says Speed.
Milan in the 1980s was booming. Coinciding with a period of rapid economic growth, fashion houses like Armani, Dolce & Gabbana, Prada and Versace propelled the industrial city onto the world stage, transforming it into a glittering epicentre of design, culture and nightlife. It was a decade defined by confidence — the Milanese mastered the art of living fast and looking good. It's this glamorous spirit — neon accents, terrazzo floors, mirrored brass and all — that pulses through Bar Allora, the all-day Italian bar and restaurant by award-winning operators The Maybe Group (Maybe Sammy, Dean & Nancy on 22) and Accor's new in-house hospitality arm, Table For. The big-time collaboration has a fittingly big-ticket location, set on the corner of Bond and George Streets at Mantra 2 Bond Street. Taking its name from the Italian word 'allora', meaning 'back then', the venue nods to that golden era while reimagining it for today. Much like the city that inspired it, Bar Allora is fast-paced by day, and social and sultry by night. Pull up in the morning for espresso and cornetti from the bustling bar or street-facing window, or settle in for breakfast plates like the house frittata with stracciatella and salsa verde. From midday, the tight all-day menu by Chef Rosy Scatigna (Table For's Culinary Director) and Head Chef Josh Donachie (Jane, Jacksons on George) takes over. Their dishes draw inspiration from Milan's post-war dining boom, when southern Italian migrants brought warmth and soul to the sleek northern city. Expect plates like spaghettone with anchovy butter and lemon pangrattato, swordfish cotoletta with blood orange and radicchio and gorgeously retro desserts like a chocolate and Campari tartufo. As one might expect of a Maybe Group venue, cocktails are just as much of a focus as the food. The menu celebrates the art of aperitivo, with inventive takes on Italian classics: the Americanello mixes Campari and Oscar Rosso vermouth with lemon myrtle liqueur and mango soda, while the Allora Negroni's gin and Campari base is brightened with oloroso, pandan and pineapple. Later in the night, the after-dinner selection features playful pours like grasshoppers with salted pistachio cream and brandy- and whisky-spiked shakeratos. There's also a smart lineup of predominantly Italian wines, with many available by the glass.
Pizza is not only restaurateur and pizzaiolo Luigi Esposito's life's work — it's also how he's sharing his life story with Sydney. Each of his three Crown Street eateries is a chapter of this autobiography. Opened in 2015, his flagship venue Via Napoli — which heroes the food and culture of Naples, where Esposito was born — was one of the first Italian joints in Sydney to serve authentic Neapolitan pizzas, cooked at 450–500 celsius in a woodfired oven for that distinctive bubbled and charred crust. His second venture, Pizza Fritta 180, which opened on the corner of Crown and Foveaux Streets in 2020 before moving next door to Via Napoli earlier this year, serves the same flash-fried calzones Esposito helped his grandparents sell on the cobbled streets of Napoli when he was eight years old. The most recent addition to his collection of diners is 170 Grammi. With a minimalist, all-white fitout in the Crown Street corner spot formerly occupied by Pizza Fritta, it pays tribute to the heritage of his wife, Sonia, a native of Rome, where Esposito also briefly lived before immigrating to Australia in 2007. After charming the Harbour City with the flavours of Naples, Sonia urged her husband to champion the dishes she grew up with. "I promised her I would open a Roman pizzeria," he explains with a smile, pizza peel in hand, as he stands in 170 Grammi's bustling kitchen during a packed Friday night service. True to his word, the la tonda Romana-style cuisine his wife had been craving is now available to hungry Sydneysiders. And if the white-knuckle pace of the waitstaff and the size of the crowd outside on our visit was anything to go by, it's already a hit. [caption id="attachment_963278" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Luigi Esposito by Trent van der Jagt[/caption] What makes a pizza Roman is the thin and crispy base. For each 13-inch pizza, just 170 grams of dough — hence the restaurant's name — is stretched thin, before being tossed and shaped to ensure an even thickness with just enough elasticity to hold its structure. After toppings are added, the pie is baked for a matter of minutes in the hand-built woodfired oven that dominates the restaurant's surprisingly compact kitchen — not at the blistering 500 degrees of its Neapolitan cousins, but at a gentler temperature, around 250-300 degrees. The result is a tell-tale crunch to the crust and a pizza that is less about piling on ingredients and mountains of cheese, and more about the balance of flavours in every bite. While Roman pizza may be a new culinary discovery for many Sydneysiders, pasta dishes from the Italian capital have household cachet. You won't find a single strand of spaghetti on 170 Grammi's menu, but Esposito has found a way to harness the popularity of those pasta faithfuls by translating them into pizza toppings, including the rich and salty cacio e pepe and the ripe tartness of amatriciana. Far from being a gimmick, it's a brilliant sleight of hand, particularly in the the a'carbonara. Uncannily capturing the interplay between the salty edge of pecorino romano and the gamy funk of the cured guanciale, mellowed with generous daubs of free-range egg yolk, it perfectly summons the flavours that set authentic carbonaras apart from the cream, bacon and parmesan pretenders. Another must-try pizza-fication of a Roman classic honours a family recipe passed onto Esposito by his uncle-in-law, Tonino Toscano. Gathering all the elements of the traditional porchetta di ariccia on a pizza, slices of herbed pork and rosemary-kissed potatoes are brought together with a judicious sprinkle of smoked scamorza. However, the dish Esposito feels most quintessentially captures the essence of Rome is not, in fact, a pizza, but an antipasto. Next to familiar crowd-pleasers like calamari fritti, buffalo mozzarella with prosciutto and fresh-fried suppli (Rome's answer to arancini), the trippa alla Romana — tripe (cow stomach lining) braised in white wine and served in a tomato sauce — might not sound all too appealing. "But you must try, you must! Otherwise you cannot really say you have eaten like a Roman," Esposito insists, as he finishes off a serving at the pass with a hearty dusting of pecorino romano. Trust this advice and you won't regret it — the perfectly cooked organs absorb the glossy sauce and fall apart in the mouth, leaving the sweetness of the tomatoes and the subtle tang of the wine to linger pleasantly on the tongue. When in Rome — or Surry Hills — it's also wise to do dessert as the Romans do. One of the various riffs on the cream-filled maritozzi pastries, with flavours ranging from the traditional, such as pistachio and tiramisu, to the irreverent, such as Kinder Bueno, are the ideal sweet finish to the meal. Sweeter still, the bill is unlikely to leave a sour taste. Esposito has crafted an affordable offering with no pizza priced over $26 and no bottles on the small but considered wine list priced over $65. "It's cheaper than a flight to Rome," Esposito jests. It's also cheaper than a lot of dining options in inner Sydney right now, too. Images: Trent van der Jagt
The weekly Carriageworks Farmers Market, held every Saturday from 8am–1pm, is one of Sydney's most beloved weekend activities. Makers, producers and artisans from across NSW converge on the site of the former Eveleigh Railways Workshops to sell organic produce, artisanal bread, single-origin coffee, freshly cut flowers and more to the hundreds of Sydneysiders who visit each week. You'll want to arrive with an empty stomach and spend your first lap of the stalls on the lookout for breakfast, be that a croissant from AP Bakery, a gözleme from Baba's Place or perhaps a classic British bite from Crumpets by Merna. Then it's time to turn your thoughts to the pantry as you peruse the wares of Enokido Miso, Condimental, Maya Sunny Honey and Currong Comestibles. Now, the fresh produce beckons and whether you're a dedicated vegan or a card-carrying carnivore, there are delights both animal and vegetable to add to your basket. Part of the joy of shopping at a market like this is the opportunity to talk to the passionate people behind the goods. Take the time to learn their stories and you'll be rewarded with a whole new appreciation of the craft and care that goes into the bountiful harvests we lucky Sydneysiders have access to each and every week. Images: Jacquie Manning
Located at the dividing line between Enmore and Newtown — on one of Australia's best roads, Enmore road — Macellaria is billed as the butcher that sells you your meat and then politely cooks it for you. Starting out in Bondi, Peter Zaidan opened the Newtown iteration back in 2017, and hasn't looked back since, with Macelleria now open in five locations across two states. If you're keen to dine in with mates or get some takeaway for the barbie, they've got you covered. This place is basically a carnivore's paradise, with only the finest MSA grade beef, free from hormones and antibiotics. It source its beef from across Australia, be it South Australia, NSW, Tasmania, Gippsland or Flinders Island. Alongside Cape Grim beef, they also offer Tajima wagyu, which originated from the Hyogo prefecture in Japan and is amongst the most famous cuts in the world. The interior itself is akin to a big and bustling foodcourt, with copious amounts of space and an airy open layout. If you're planning lunch out with the whole family, then know this is the kin of place where they'll be welcomed warmly. And there is plenty on the menu to excited the kids. If you're vegetarian or looking to take it easy on the meat, they have you covered too. For a place that is literally a butcher shop, the vegetarian burger and eggplant parmigiana, as well as fresh salads, are surprisingly good. On your way out, be sure to window shop at the open counters and grab some sausages and lamb chops for the freezer. In a world where butcher shops have all but disappeared, Macelleria has found a way to not only survive, but thrive. Appears in: Where to Find the Best Steak in Sydney
If there's one wine palate you can trust, it's Sophie Otton's — owner of She Loves You. Having over 20 years in the wine industry, her resume boasts wine director at Sydney's Rockpool Bar and Grill and, as of 2016, sommelier at Billy Kwong. Plus, she has been a wine consultant, writer and judge, too. And, even she'll admit she has a pretty good palate. "Wine knowledge can fade over time and it's easy to forget, but my weapon is my palate," says Otton. "I've come to learn I'm good at selecting delicious wines...that's my strength." Otton brings all that expertise to the inner west, with She Loves You — Newtown's ever-evolving wine bar focusing on minimal intervention and quality drops at affordable prices. The venture is a collaboration between Otton and her partner Stephen Smooker, along with Martin Corcoran (owner of Adelaide's Peel Street). The team took over the old Doris and Beryl's Bridge Club & Teahouse digs back in August 2017 and have been gradually converting the 30-seat small bar into She Loves You since. "It's been a slow transformation as it took a while for us to get know the venue and understand what we had," says Otton. "Eventually we started to replace the shadow box on the wall with our own items, mainly old vintage glass bottles that have the whole shipwrecked and washed up feel. It ties in really nicely with the wine and what we're trying to do here." Otton's specialty is alternative varieties that showcase the winemakers' strengths. Think wines that are handpicked with no additives, preservatives or filtration. Oh, and there's no wine list at She Loves You, either. "I've done so many wine lists in my lifetime, I really wanted to eliminate the need for one in my own bar," says Otton. "Instead, it's constantly evolving and I suppose the end goal will be to just open, taste and pour wines as we find them instead of having a set menu. To fit the right wines for the right people depending on how we feel and who's there at the time. It'll be free-style, really." This 'not-a-wine-list' will focus on Australian producers with a "smattering" of European influence — all with a focus on high quality and at an accessible price point that doesn't "drag you down financially". This minimal intervention ethos extends to the bar at She Loves You, which still remains largely unchanged. "We're working on developing the bar's character and offerings rather than its logistics for now, though interior changes will come later on," says Otton. "It's quite a personal, intimate space, and with table service we have a lot of interaction with the guests. We are really looking for the bar to be an extension of your lounge room." Expect an intimate experience with no menu in sight, the team will serve you up something perfect based on your taste. You might see some light snacks but drinks definitely take centre stage here. Images: Katia Monte and Jun Chen
So you've been plotting a move to the lower north shore. You probably don't need any more reasons to decamp to this idyllic part of town, but we're going to give you some anyway. We've rounded up ten of the best outdoor adventures to be had in and around the lower north shore. While many of these are obviously best enjoyed in the warmer months, there's still plenty of outdoorsy fun to be had as the temperatures start to come up again. Kirribilli and Lavender Bay sit in the heart of the region, and they're surrounded on all sides by the stunning Sydney Harbour — which as you know, is beautiful all year round. [caption id="attachment_617819" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: Martin7d2 via Flickr.[/caption] WENDY'S SECRET GARDEN, LAVENDER BAY This not-so-secret garden is, without a doubt, one of Sydney's most beautiful green spaces. Created by Wendy Whiteley, the widow of acclaimed Australian artist Brett Whiteley, the garden is a gorgeous testament to heartbreak and renewal. Channeling her grief into an artistic project, Wendy slowly transformed the abandoned railway dump in front of her home into what is now a public garden. With winding paths, benches, sculptures, and sweeping views over the harbour, this little slice of paradise offers a welcome respite from the chaos of the city. The garden's many quiet corners also make it the perfect place for a quiet picnic, or a little alone time. [caption id="attachment_617831" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: Annemarie51 via Flickr.[/caption] BALMORAL PARK, MOSMAN This leafy little park has a lot going for it — the sweeping views over Middle Harbour and North Head, the proximity to one of Sydney's most idyllic beaches and the solid set of facilities are just a few of them. Active types will love the skatepark, sports oval, and water sport facilities like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Loungers, meanwhile, will be more than happy to relax on the grass with a book or some music. Balmoral Park is an excellent place for a picnic, but if you forget to pack a hamper, the Balmoral Beach Club, The Boathouse, and The Bathers' Pavilion are all just a stone's throw away. ROAR AND SNORE GLAMPING, MOSMAN This unique Sydney adventure lets you spend an evening up close and personal with the animals at Taronga Zoo. The Roar & Snore experience includes an evening 'safari' (if you've always wanted to touch a snake, now's your chance), two behind-the-scene tours of Taronga, and a fancy all-you-can-eat buffet dinner. When all the exploring is done, you'll get to rest your bones in gorgeous luxe tents with wooden floors, hotel beds, and power outlets. Spots are snapped up quickly so make sure to book as far in advance as possible. [caption id="attachment_618251" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: Z Geek via Flickr.[/caption] SAWMILLER RESERVE, MCMAHONS POINT This quiet park is one of Sydney's true hidden gems — if you want gorgeous harbour views without the crowds, this is the place for you. Located on the site of a former sawmill, the space exudes a weighty sense of history: from the ruins at the centre of the park to the rusty remains of a hopper barge sitting in the water, there's heaps to explore. Spend some time meandering along the paths before settling down on the grassy expanse for a picnic. The reserve has no facilities to speak of, so make sure to bring along everything you need. [caption id="attachment_617699" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: oliviashead via Instagram.[/caption] WOOLWICH BATHS, WOOLWICH It's not hard to see why this small harbour beach is a firm favourite among the Woolwich locals. With a shark net, pontoons, and toilet facilities, it's a great option if you've got young ones in tow. The baths are surrounded by parklands, so you can also wander off for a little walk between dips in the water. This is a great choice for those lazy days when all you want to do is float in the water, read a book, or just watch the clouds float by. [caption id="attachment_617823" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: Martin7d2 via Flickr.[/caption] MACCALLUM POOL, CREMORNE Few Sydney pools can compete with MacCallum's heritage charm and stunning views over the Harbour Bridge and Opera House. Tucked away on a quiet lane in Cremorne Point, this idyllic spot has been a local favourite since the 1920s. Although the narrow pool beckons you to do at least a few laps, you could just as easily lounge on the timber deck and soak up some rays. Note, though, that there are no toilet or shower facilities here. Still, it's free entry so you'll have more money to put towards that post-swim ice cream. LANE COVE NATIONAL PARK, LANE COVE This gorgeous expanse of bushland is a mere skip and a jump from the city centre but you'll feel far, far away from the chaos of metropolitan living. Escaping the hustle and bustle doesn't mean you have to forgo the creature comforts however: the park has a pool, wireless internet, fully-equipped kitchens and four amenities blocks. Spend the day bushwalking — we recommend the two-and-a-half hour Fairylands loop track — or on the Lane Cove River, with a kayak or rowboat rented from the Boat Shed. Keen to spend the night? Pack a tent or, if you're more of a glamper, book into Tandara Luxury Safari. [caption id="attachment_617757" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: adventurebe4dementia via Instagram.[/caption] BURNS BAY RESERVE, RIVERVIEW Sitting on the shores of the Lane Cover River, this quaint waterfront park is the perfect place for a tranquil afternoon picnic. If you're keen for a barbecue, remember to bring your own wood as the facilities here are of the old-school variety. After stuffing your face, burn off your meal with a game of soccer on the Burns Bay Oval or some basketball on the nearby court. There's also a cute little playground for the young ones. While there are a few picnic tables scattered around, there's also plenty of space to stretch out on a picnic blanket. [caption id="attachment_617775" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Martin7d2 via Flickr.[/caption] BLUES POINT RESERVE, MCMAHONS POINT This park is a firm favourite among both tourists and locals and it's not hard to see why. While Sydney has many parks with stunning views, Blues Point Reserve is undoubtedly one of the best vantage points for taking in the city skyline and the harbour. While the park is packed with crowds during the NYE fireworks, it tends to be rather quiet for the rest of the year. Kids (and kidults) will love the newly-revamped nautical-themed playground, and there's also a lovely path that meanders around the headland if you're in the mood for a stroll. We recommend packing a sunset picnic for a picture-perfect date night. [caption id="attachment_617772" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: Ernest McGray via Flickr.[/caption] OBELISK BEACH, MOSMAN Obelisk Beach has great views and not just because it's one of the only legal nude beaches in Sydney. While the walk down to this Mosman beach is not for the faint of heart — you'll have to scramble down a rocky track and down a long set of stairs — it's more than worth it for the stunning views over Sydney Harbour. Despite its cult status, Obelisk is usually rather tranquil, so it's a great spot to head for a quiet little skinny dip.
Tired of the classic movie and dinner date night combo? Us too. That's why we're always on the hunt for new things to do, scouring the city for more inventive Sydney activities — ones that are guaranteed to extend your dating repertoire beyond beers at the pub. Whether you're taking someone on a second date or doing the 100th with your significant other, we've got some stellar Sydney date ideas for this week, no matter your budget. Recommended reads: Romantic Sydney Bars and Restaurants What's On in Sydney This Weekend The Best Films and TV Shows to Stream This Month FREE Explore the Powerhouse Ultimate for One Last Time Before It Closes The Powerhouse Museum is closing for up to three years from Monday, February 5, for its long-awaited $250-million makeover. So, this is your last chance to squeeze in one more dose of free art, history and general oddities at the inner-city museum. The institution's current exhibitions — including 1001 Remarkable Objects and Absolutely Queer — are all great date ideas, providing you with a chance to wander around and chat as you occasionally remark: "Whoa, how cool's that?". If things are going well, there are plenty of spots to head after for a spot to eat or drink. If you're after something cheap and cheerful, head to Kafe Kooks or one of the many top spots at Darling Square; if you want to catch up over a bev, The Old Clare Rooftop and Flamin Galah are good options; and if you're looking to really impress, there are a few ultra-fancy spots you could hit up — namely, seafood and snack haven Longshore. Under $50 Catch a Flick at Sydney's BYO- and Dog-Friendly Moonlight Cinema Moonlight Cinema is back for another jam-packed year of flicks under the stars. Pack a picnic, your favourite snacks, and a bottle of chilled red, and head to Centennial Park to catch a new release or a cult classic as the sun sets. You can even bring your pups, so if you're looking for somewhere to introduce Fido and Spot, this could be your chance. This week, you can catch showings of Argylle, The Boys in the Boat, Next Goal Wins and the sequel to The Dry. Or, looking ahead to the rest of February, Saltburn, 10 Things I Hate About You, All of Us Strangers, The Iron Claw and The Princess Bride are all in line for showings. Tickets are $26 (just over $50 for the two of you), but if you're a Cinebuzz member, you can snag them for just $22 each. Under $100 Hit up the Huge Banksy Exhibition at Sydney Town Hall After a blockbuster season in Brisbane, The Art of Banksy: Without Limits has finally hit Sydney Town Hall with more than 160 works from the collection of the world's biggest street artist, Banksy. A massive collection of pieces by the art world's chief enigma — including the darkly satirical, overtly political work that has turned the stencil-loving artist into such an icon — the exhibition's hefty array of artworks include Banksy's certified art, prints on a heap of different materials, plus photos and sculptures as well. For an immersive experience, there are installations, physical and digital, alongside murals and mapping shows. The experience has already proven to be super popular in Sydney, so make sure to reserve your spot before heading into the city. Standard adult tickets are $41 per person, or you can opt for premium entry, which includes a t-shirt spray painting session, after which you get to keep the garment. Putt Your Way Around This Pizar-Themed Mini-Golf Course Sydney's sunny season is in full swing — and if you like celebrating warm weather, adorable animation and mini-golf all at once, the part-tee has arrived in Darling Harbour. Everyone's favourite Pixar characters are popping up in Sydney at a putt-putt course inspired by the Disney-owned studio's loveable films. Yes, Pixar Putt has returned, with the kidult-friendly course taking over the Pier St Underpass until this Sunday. Designed to challenge both eight-year-olds and adults, Pixar Putt features nine- and 18-hole courses that take you past childhood heroes like Buzz Lightyear, Sheriff Woody and Elastigirl. Flicks such as Monsters Inc., Onward, Finding Nemo, Up, A Bug's Life, Wall-E, Inside Out, Soul, Turning Red and Lightyear all get some putting love, too. Clearly, there's no need for a trip to Disneyland — and this year's course features new holes inspired by Pixar's recent Elemental. If this all sounds up your alley, tickets are available for $29.90. Go All Out [caption id="attachment_923663" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Maclay Heriot[/caption] Combine Live Music and Harbour Views at Twilight at Taronga Where can you see live tunes with a stunning view of Sydney Harbour, all while surrounded by adorable animals as well? Twilight at Taronga. Each summer, the after-hours live music series hosts outdoor gigs with an impressive lineup — a true date-night delight. Each year, the program serves up a mix of returning and new exciting local faves. For the first week, the lineup features Meg Mac on Saturday, February 3, and Bjorn Again on Sunday and Monday, as well as Emma Memma with one for the kids on Sunday afternoon. Later in the month and into March, you can catch Ball Park Music, The Whitlams, The Cat Empire and the Comedy Gala featuring Celia Pacquola and Dave Hughes. If your ideal Sydney date idea includes harbour vistas, live music, cute (but not cuddly) animals and some fresh air, this one's for you. You can BYO a picnic, but there'll also be gourmet hampers available on-site alongside a handful of food trucks. Ticketholders can also purchase discounted same-day entry into the zoo (so you can sneak in a visit to your favourite mammal, bird or reptile beforehand), and if you want to make a weekend of it, you can add on a night at Taronga's luxe eco-retreat. Top image: Charlie Hardie.
These days, a new Sydney restaurant serving up locally sourced health food, dotted with plants and millennial pink armchairs barely causes us to bat an eyelid — but The Botanica Vaucluse has taken these well-practiced trends to a new level. The venue not only houses a farm-to-table restaurant but a spa, on-site produce garden and soon-to-open café as well. And it's beautiful. The recently revamped restaurant space — which was last year operating as Sol Botanica — boasts an impressive fit-out with an entrance by landscape designer Charlie Albone (Selling Houses Australia), which is marked by a copper archway covered with hanging succulents. The interior better resembles a domestic greenhouse with floor-to-ceiling windows that open onto the garden in warmer weather, plus herbs, citrus trees and strawberry bushes aplenty. Plush pastel pink chairs and white walls with splashes of floral wallpaper complete these tea party vibes. A focus on healthy eating starts with the seasonal produce, which is primarily sourced from the restaurant's expansive garden — with lavender, thyme, lemon balm and edible flowers — and the restaurant's 65-acre farm south of Sydney in the Jamberoo Valley near Kiama. The little that is not sourced in-house is purchased from Cooks Co-Op in Sackville — like the pasture-raised ducks, used for the roast duck breast with fennel and preserved orange salad — and from Victoria's O'Connor beef, which provides the free-range and hormone-free meat used in for the sirloin with red wine butter, charred onion and kale. Executive chef Perry Hill's dishes are dictated by produce throughout, and his all-day menu is limited to three-or-four ingredients per plate. Think salmon smoked over eucalyptus branches or tuna tartare with native blood limes. In these cooler months, guests can expect sweet potato gnocchi with pesto and baby leeks, grilled quail with toasted almonds and wine-drizzled figs and rhubarb meringue tarts for dessert. "We're responding to the seasons in a really immediate and natural way," says Hill. "We're not overthinking or complicating things." The cocktails also speak to seasonality and the list includes a lemon myrtle gimlet, cold drip negroni and the signature Garden Grove Spritz: dry vermouth and sparkling wine with elderflower and cucumber, garnished with garden mint and frozen grapes. Guests can also expect gin made in-house and an Australian wine list that focuses on natural, organic and biodynamic vineyards. Driving the wellness concept home is the Botanica's Sol Spa, which sits adjacent to the restaurant. Here, therapists will use aromatic oils, spices and herbs to revitalise patrons; facials and massages are accompanied by holistic treatments, plus detoxifying and antioxidant therapies. Completing the new space is an upcoming cafe, which is set to open in July and will offer a more casual dining setting for farm-fresh produce, plus artisanal products for purchase. So where exactly did they find the space for this opulent garden restaurant and spa? Well, it's actually part of Mark Moran Vaucluse, a luxury $115 million aged care facility on Old South Head Road. Not that it's anything like a traditional retirement village — the place is fancy and, in any case, the restaurant and spa have their own entrances. The Botanica Vaucluse is now open at 2 Laguna Street, Vaucluse. For more info, visit thebotanicavaucluse.com.au. Images: Nikki To.
History was made. For once, the vibe was casual and relaxed rather than tense and overdone. And it seems that even the Academy itself was surprised by the very last winner of the night. Yes, the Oscars have now been and gone for 2021, albeit a couple of months later than usual — one of the many changes implemented in response to the pandemic. First, the exceptional news: after nominating two female directors for the first time ever — yes, the first time in the awards' 93-year history — the Academy also gave one of these talented ladies the nod. Only The Hurt Locker's Kathryn Bigelow has ever won the coveted field before, so Chloé Zhao's win for Nomadland is the hugest kind of deal there is when it comes to finally recognising that women helm movies, too. Zhao is also the first woman of colour to ever win the Best Director prize. Also phenomenal: the wins that went Daniel Kaluuya and Yuh-Jung Youn's ways, for their supporting roles in Judas and the Black Messiah and Minari respectively. Their individual speeches were something special as well. When you're thanking your parents for having sex and therefore bringing you into this world, and trying to cosy up to Brad Pitt, you're going to grab attention. But, in a year filled with worthy winners and just-as-deserving nominees, the thing that everyone will be talking about for the next 12 months is the Best Actor field. It seems that the folks behind the Oscars thought that Chadwick Boseman would win posthumously for Ma Rainey's Black Bottom, with the category moved to the last slot of the evening — breaking with tradition. But, then Anthony Hopkins emerged victorious for The Father, wasn't in attendance or available via video, and the show came to a close without a big speech. Perhaps that kind of chaos is apt, given that nothing about the past year has been normal — in cinema, or in life in general. It's also worth remembering that this year's Oscars ceremony was partly brought to the world by Steven Soderbergh, with the prolific filmmaker producing the awards broadcast. Yes, that means that the man who made the most prophetic movie of the past decade, aka Contagion, had a hand in the making Hollywood's night of nights happen in the pandemic era. Now that the longest Oscars season in memory is done and dusted for the year, more fun awaits. Whether you're watching them for the first time or the tenth, a list of stellar winning films is there to be seen by your movie-loving eyeballs. Some you can stream at home right now. Others, you'll need to head to the biggest screen near you. Either way, we've rounded up ten of 2021's Academy Award-winning must-sees. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DSFpK34lfv0 NOMADLAND Frances McDormand is a gift of an actor. Point a camera her way, and a performance so rich that it feels not just believable but tangible floats across the screen. That's the case in Nomadland, which has earned McDormand her third shiny Oscars statuette just three years after she nabbed her second for Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri. Here, leading a cast that also includes real people experiencing the existence that's fictionalised within the narrative, she plays the widowed, van-dwelling Fern — a woman who takes to the road, and to the nomad life, after the small middle-America spot she spent her married life in turns into a ghost town when the local mine is shuttered due to the global financial crisis. Following her travels over the course of more than a year, this humanist drama serves up an observational portrait of those that society happily overlooks. It's both deeply intimate and almost disarmingly empathetic in the process, as every movie made by Chloé Zhao is. This is only the writer/director's third, slotting in after 2015's Songs My Brothers Taught Me and 2017's The Rider but before 2021's Marvel flick Eternals, but it's a feature of contemplative and authentic insights into the concepts of home, identity and community. Meticulously crafted, shot and performed, it's also Zhao's best work yet, and the best film of 2020 as well. Won: Best Picture, Best Director (Chloé Zhao), Best Actress in a Leading Role (Frances McDormand). Where to watch it: In cinemas, still — and it'll be available to stream via Star on Disney+ from Friday, April 30. Read our full review. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g0ox9ExOA1M&feature=youtu.be THE FATHER Forgetting, fixating, flailing, fraying: that's Florian Zeller's The Father, as brought to the screen in a stunning fashion from Le Père, the filmmaker's own play. Anthony's (Anthony Hopkins, Westworld) life is unravelling, with his daughter Anne (Olivia Colman, The Crown) springing the sudden news that she's about to move to Paris, and now insistent that he needs a new carer to replace the last home helper he's just scared off. He also can't find his watch, and time seems to jump suddenly. On some days, he has just trundled out of bed to greet the morning when Anne advises that dinner, not breakfast, is being served. When he brings up her French relocation again, she frostily and dismissively denies any knowledge. Sometimes another man (Mark Gatiss, Dracula) stalks around Anthony's London apartment, calling himself Anne's husband. Sometimes the flat isn't his own at all and, on occasion, both Anne (Olivia Williams, Victoria and Abdul) and her partner (Rufus Sewell, Judy) look completely different. Intermittently, Anthony either charms or spits cruel words at Laura (Imogen Poots, Black Christmas), the latest aide hired to oversee his days. So goes this largely housebound film, which is also a chaotic film. Despite its visual polish, and that mess, confusion and upheaval is entirely by design. All the shifting and changing — big and small details alike, and faces and places, too — speak to the reason Anne keeps telling Anthony they need another set of hands around the house. And, diving into it all is simply heartbreaking. Won: Best Actor (Anthony Hopkins), Best Adapted Screenplay (Christopher Hampton and Florian Zeller). Where to watch it: In cinemas. Read our full review. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NbE96sCJEjo MINARI Although they can frequently seem straightforward, films about the American dream aren't simply about chasing success. The circumstances and details change, but they're often movies about finding a place to call home as well. Such a quest isn't always as literal as it sounds, of course. While houses can signify achievement, feeling like you truly belong somewhere — and that you're comfortable enough to set your sights on lofty goals and ambitions that require considerable risks and sacrifices — transcends even the flashiest or cosiest combination of bricks and mortar. Partly drawn from writer/director Lee Isaac Chung's (Abigail Harm) own childhood, Minari understands this. It knows that seeking a space to make one's own is crucial, and that it motivates many big moves to and within the US. So, following a Korean American couple (Steven Yeun, Burning and Yeri Han, My Unfamiliar Family) who relocate to rural Arkansas in the 80s with hopes of securing a brighter future for their children (first-timer Noel Cho and fellow newcomer Alan S Kim), this delicately observed and deeply felt feature doesn't separate the Yi family's attempts to set up a farm from their efforts to feel like they're exactly where they should be. Complete with a film-stealing performance from Youn Yuh-jung (Sense8) as Monica's mother, the result is a precise, vivid, moving, and beautifully performed and observed film told with honest and tender emotion — so much so that it was always bound to be equally universal and unique. Won: Best Actress in Supporting Role (Yuh-Jung Youn). Where to watch it: In cinemas. Read our full review. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ivHf4ODMi4 JUDAS AND THE BLACK MESSIAH The last time that Daniel Kaluuya and LaKeith Stanfield appeared in the same film, Get Out was the end result. Their shared scene in Jordan Peele's Oscar-winning horror movie isn't easily forgotten (if you've seen the feature, it will have instantly popped into your head while you're reading this), and neither is Judas and the Black Messiah, their next exceptional collaboration. With Kaluuya starring as the Black Panther Party's Illinois Chairman Fred Hampton and Stanfield playing William O'Neal, the man who infiltrated his inner circle as an informant for the FBI, the pair is still tackling race relations. Here, though, the duo does so in a ferocious historical drama set in the late 60s. The fact that O'Neal betrays Hampton isn't a spoiler; it's a matter of fact, and the lens through which writer/director Shaka King (Newlyweeds) and his co-scribes Kenneth Lucas, Keith Lucas (actors on Lady Dynamite) and Will Berson (Scrubs) view the last period of Hampton's life. The magnetic Kaluuya has already won a Best Supporting Actor Golden Globe for his performance, and now he has an Oscar as well — and if he wants to keep acting opposite his fellow Academy Award nominee Stanfield in movies this invigorating, ardent, resonant and essential, audiences won't complain. Won: Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Daniel Kaluuya), Best Original Song ('Fight For You' by HER, Dernst Emile II and Tiara Thomas). Where to watch it: In cinemas. Read our full review. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ord7gP151vk MA RAINEY'S BLACK BOTTOM Chadwick Boseman didn't end up winning an Oscar for his last screen role, but the late, great actor really should've. Boseman is just that phenomenal in Ma Rainey's Black Bottom. He has earned that term before in Get on Up, Black Panther and Da 5 Bloods, but his performance in this stage-to-screen production is such a powerhouse effort that it's like watching a cascading waterfall drown out almost everything around it. He plays trumpeter Levee Green, who is part of the eponymous Ma Rainey's (Viola Davis, Widows) band. On a 1920s day, the always-nattering, big-dreaming musician joins Ma — who isn't just a fictional character, and was known as the Mother of Blues — and the rest of his colleagues for a recording session. Temperatures and tempers rise in tandem in the Chicago studio, with Levee and Ma rarely seeing eye to eye on any topic. Davis is in thundering, hot-blooded form, while Colman Domingo (If Beale Street Could Talk) and Glynn Turman (Fargo) also leave a firm impression. It's impossible take your eyes off of the slinkily magnetic Boseman though, as would prove the case even if he was still alive to see the film's release. Adapting the play of the same name by August Wilson (Fences), director George C Wolfe (The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks) lets Boseman farewell the screen with one helluva bang. Won: Best Makeup and Hairstyling (Sergio Lopez-Rivera, Mia Neal and Jamika Wilson), Best Costume Design (Ann Roth). Where to watch it: On Netflix. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gs--6c7Hn_A SOUL Released early in 2020, Onward definitely wasn't Pixar's best film — but Soul, its straight-to-streaming latest movie that capped off the past year, instantly contends for the title. The beloved animation studio has always excelled when it takes big leaps. Especially now, a quarter-century into its filmmaking tenure, its features prove particularly enchanting when they're filled with surprises (viewers have become accustomed to seeing toys, fish, rats and robots have feelings, after all). On paper, Soul initially seems similar to Inside Out, but switching in souls for emotions. It swaps in voice work by Tina Fey for Amy Poehler, too, and both movies are helmed by director Peter Docter, so there's more than one reason for the comparison. But to the delight of viewers of all ages, Soul is a smart, tender and contemplative piece of stunning filmmaking all on its own terms. It's Pixar at its most existential, and with a strikingly percussive score by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross to further help it stand out. At its centre sits aspiring jazz musician-turned-music teacher Joe (Jamie Foxx, Just Mercy). Just as he's about to get his big break, he falls down a manhole, his soul leaves his body, and he's desperate to get back to chase his dreams. Alas, that's not how things work, and he's saddled with mentoring apathetic and cynical soul 22 (the always hilarious Fey) in his quest to reclaim his life. Won: Best Animated Feature, Best Original Score (Trent Reznor, Atticus Ross and Jon Batiste). Where to watch it: On Disney+. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vdaJcoKk0s PROMISING YOUNG WOMAN Promising Young Woman would've made an excellent episode or season of Veronica Mars. That's meant as the highest compliment to both the bubblegum-hued take on the rape-revenge genre and the cult-status private detective series. Writer/director Emerald Fennell clearly isn't blind to the parallels between the two, even casting Veronica Mars stars Max Greenfield (New Girl) and Chris Lowell (GLOW) in her feature debut. Don't go thinking the Killing Eve season two showrunner and The Crown actor is simply following in other footsteps, though. At every moment, the brilliant and blistering Promising Young Woman vibrates with too much anger, energy and insight to merely be a copycat of something else. It's a film made with the savviest of choices, and provocative and downright fearless ones as well, in everything from its soundtrack to its weaponised pastel, peppy and popping Instagram-friendly imagery. You don't include Italian quartet Archimia's orchestral version of Britney Spears' 'Toxic', Paris Hilton's 'Stars Are Blind' and an abundance of vibrant surface sheen in a movie about a woman waging war on the culture of sexual assault without trying to make a statement — and Fennell succeeds again and again. She has also made the smart decision to cast Carey Mulligan (The Dig), and to draw upon the acclaimed actor's near-peerless ability to express complex internalised turmoil. Mulligan's fierce lead performance scorches, sears and resounds with such burning truth, and so does the feature she's in as a result. Won: Best Original Screenplay (Emerald Fennell). Where to watch it: It's available to rent or buy via Google Play, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Amazon Video. Read our full review. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VFOrGkAvjAE SOUND OF METAL When feature filmmaking debutant Darius Marder begins Sound of Metal just as its title intimates, he does so with the banging and clashing of drummer Ruben Stone (Riz Ahmed, Venom) as his arms flail above his chosen instrument. He's playing a gig with his girlfriend and bandmate Lou (Olivia Cooke, Ready Player One), and he's caught up in the rattling and clattering as her guttural voice and thrashing guitar offers the pitch-perfect accompaniment. But for viewers listening along, it doesn't quite echo the way it should. For the bleached-blonde, tattooed, shirtless and sweaty Ruben, that's the case, too. Sound of Metal's expert and exacting sound design mimics his experience, as his hearing fades rapidly and traumatically over the course of a few short days — a scenario that no one wants, let alone a musician with more that a few magazine covers to his band's name, who motors between shows in the cosy Airstream he lives in with his other half and is about to embark upon a new tour. That's not all the film is about, though. Ruben's ability to listen to the world around him begins to dip out quickly and early, leaving him struggling; however, it's how he grapples with the abrupt change, and with being forced to sit with his own company without a constant onslaught of aural interruptions distracting him from his thoughts, that the movie is most interested in. Won: Best Sound (Nicolas Becker, Jaime Baksht, Michelle Couttolenc, Carlos Cortés and Phillip Bladh), Best Film Editing (Mikkel EG Nielsen). Where to watch it: In cinemas and on Amazon Prime Video. Read our full review. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V5R46NgopPw&feature=emb_logo ANOTHER ROUND Even the most joyous days and nights spent sipping your favourite drink can have their memory tainted by a hangover. Imbibe too much, and there's a kicker just waiting to pulsate through your brain and punish your body when all that alcohol inevitably starts to wear off. For much of Another Round, four Copenhagen school teachers try to avoid this feeling. The film they're in doesn't, though. Writer/director Thomas Vinterberg (Kursk)) and his co-scribe Tobias Lindholm (A War) lay bare the ups and downs of knocking back boozy beverages, and it also serves up a finale that's a sight to behold. Without sashaying into spoiler territory, the feature's last moments are a thing of sublime beauty. Some movies end in a WTF, "what were they thinking?" kind of way, but this Oscar-shortlisted Danish film comes to a conclusion with a big and bold showstopper that's also a piece of bittersweet perfection. The picture's highest-profile star, Mads Mikkelsen (Arctic), is involved. His pre-acting background as an acrobat and dancer comes in handy, too. Unsurprisingly, the substances that flow freely throughout the feature remain prominent. And, so does the canny and candid awareness that life's highs and lows just keep spilling, plus the just-as-shrewd understanding that the line between self-sabotage and self-release is as thin as a slice of lemon garnishing a cocktail. Won: Best International Feature. Where to watch it: In cinemas. Read our full review. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aSfX-nrg-lI MANK In 2010's The Social Network, David Fincher surveyed the story of an outsider and upstart who would become a business magnate, wield significant influence and have an immense impact upon the world. The applauded and astute film tells the tale of Mark Zuckerberg and of Facebook's development — but it's also the perfect precursor to Fincher's latest movie, Mank. This time around, the filmmaker focuses on a man who once spun a similar narrative. A drama critic turned screenwriter, Herman J Mankiewicz scored the gig of his lifetime when he was hired to pen Orson Welles' first feature, and he drew upon someone from his own life to do so. Citizen Kane is famous for many things, but its central character of Charles Foster Kane is also famously partially based on US media mogul William Randolph Hearst, who Mankiewicz knew personally. Accordingly, Mank sees Fincher step behind the scenes of an iconic movie that his own work has already paralleled — to ponder how fact influences fiction, how stories that blaze across screens silver and small respond to the world around them, and how one man's best-known achievement speaks volumes about both in a plethora of ways. Mank is a slice-of-life biopic about Mankiewicz's (Gary Oldman, Crisis) time writing Citizen Kane's screenplay, as well as his career around it. It's catnip for the iconic feature's multitudes of fans, in fact. But it also peers at a bigger picture, because that's classic Fincher. Won: Best Cinematography (Erik Messerschmidt), Best Production Design (Donald Graham Burt and Jan Pascale). Where to watch it: In cinemas and on Netflix. Read our full review. Top image: Nomadland. Image courtesy of Searchlight Pictures. © 2020, 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved
Since early 2020, A.P. Bakery has built a cult following among Sydneysiders through its renowned bake sales. Initially popping up across Sydney before finding a home on the rooftop of Paramount House Hotel with A.P. House, the team has been winning over locals for 18 months with its bread, pastries, pies and egg rolls. A.P. Town arrived in Newtown as the team's first standalone venue. The bakery and cafe is tucked away behind north King Street on Bucknell Street in a quaint red-brick inner west building filling a once quiet alleyway with lines out the door each day. Open 7am–2.30pm Monday–Saturday and 8am–2:30pm Sundays, the outpost is a hit with inner west residents heading down for their morning coffee, a mid-week baked treat or that weekend breakfast. The response from locals was huge from the get-go, with A.P. Town selling out before midday on its first day of operation. The menu is simple. There are pies filled with chicken curry, smoked brisket or native Warrigal greens. There are a range of cakes, too, with whiskey canale, three milk bombolini and a Basque cheese cake standing out. The menu also features pastries like buttermilk croissants or Aleppo pepper and asiago cheese scrolls; quince, ricotta and almond Danishes; and bread ranging from seeded bagel and baguettes through to smokey eggplant and pork flatbread and fenugreek and sesame loaf. As for the drinks, you'll find delicious coffee, tea and fruit juices. [caption id="attachment_858741" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Chimichurri Choripán[/caption] Appears in: The Best Cafes in Sydney
One of the great things about Japanese food is that it rarely leaves you feeling horrendously full, even after scoffing an insane amount of it. Which means that an unlimited feasting situation at somewhere like Okami packs a serious punch in the value department. With over 20 outposts across Melbourne, Okami launched its first Sydney restaurant in Marrickville in 2020. Like the others, it also offers an all-you-can-eat menu. Go to town on sushi and sashimi, karaage chicken, agedashi tofu, chicken sausage skewers and takoyaki (crisp octopus balls), knowing you'll probably even have belly room left over for some green tea ice cream for dessert. The inner west spot is also BYO and has robust takeaway menu, featuring the likes of pork katsu with curry sauce, terriyaki chicken don and bento. Sydneysiders are lucky enough to now have eight Okami restaurants scattered all over the city — it's never been so easy to find affordable Japanese fare in the city.
Back in 2018, Chatswood scored a big infusion of contemporary Chinese flavour in elegant newcomer Mama Mulan. Located in The Concourse, the 180-seater made quite the impression, with its restaurant, bar and private dining areas boasting striking interiors by creative agency DS17. To match the polished, modern aesthetic, the kitchen is dishing up a culinary exploration of China, delivered through a mix of traditional techniques and new-school flair. The chefs have pulled together an approachable menu full of tightly executed dishes from a range of Chinese provinces. Wok-fried lobster is dressed in the restaurant's secret Szechuan sauce, dandan noodle soup is made with noodles hand-pulled before your eyes and roasted lamb ribs are cooked Mongolian style. The addition of duck drives a san choi bao into modern territory, while the Mama Mulan fried rice is supercharged with asparagus, wagyu beef and XO sauce. If you decide to look to the tanks for inspiration, pick out a live mud (or snow) crab and order it typhoon shelter-style, piled high with dried chilli and black beans. Headlining the dessert offering is a range of signature fried ice cream flavours, created in collaboration with Sydney's famed dessert masters, Duo Duo. A hefty selection of Chinese booze, clever cocktails and international beer rounds out the fun. If you're coming for a special event then be sure to book out the private dining room. With polished floorboards, floor to ceiling linen curtains and a curved, steel-grey interior, the room is sophisticated and fun, elegant without being overbearing. They can seat over fifteen guests so you can kick back and relax while the professional staff take care of your evening.
Nothing says 'baller' quite like free-flowing bubbles, fluffy eggs topped with caviar and a cart of cocktails — particularly when it's all before midday. Thanks to Sydney's obsession with bottomless brunches and lunches, us mere mortals can live like Queen B and Jay Z, even if it's just for a couple of hours. Whether you're planning your weekend around it or treating yourself, here's the lowdown on Sydney's best bottomless brunches. Just remember to behave, or you won't make it to midday. Recommended reads: The Best Cafes in Sydney The Best Coffee Shops in Sydney's CBD The Best Breakfast Spots in Sydney's CBD The Best Bars in Sydney DEAD RINGER, SURRY HILLS Dead Ringer lets you go all-in with one and half hours of wine (bubbles, white, rose and red) for $45 per person. Intent on offering brunch with a difference, Dead Ringer has declared its menu free of Sydney's beloved eggs and smashed avo. Instead, it's focused heavily on lunch-style fare. The set brunch menu ($45) starts with cured salmon and a pulled pork tostada, then moves on to baked ricotta tarts and slow-roasted chicken with a creamy polenta as your main. If you'd rather pick your poison than go all out with mimosas or prosecco, you can also order the Dead Ringer bloody mary ($18), an espresso martini ($20) or breakfast juice with a touch of campari ($11) à la carte. What's the deal? $45 for food plus $45 per head for 1.5 hours of white, rose, red and sparkling wine. When? Saturday and Sunday, 11am–3pm. BARTOLO, SURRY HILLS Surry Hills' all-day Italian diner Bartolo is the latest to throw its prosecco on ice and launch a new bottomless brunch special. It's available every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 12–5pm — and it includes everything from fluffy homemade focaccia to pasta and bottomless seasonal mimosas. For $85 per person, you'll get a full Italian feast. Start with a spritz on arrival and the likes of marinated Sicilian olives, gnocco fritto with anchovy butter and kingfish crostino— followed by the main course of ox heart tomato, malfadine with zucchini and chilli parmigiano reggiano, and a chive and garlic butter coated flathead. The menu may be slightly different depending on the day, but it'll be in a similar vein — cheesy, carby and perfectly paired with a mimosa or a glass of wine. It's easily one of the best bottomless brunches in Sydney. What's the deal? $85 for a spritz on arrival, food and 90 minutes of bottomless mimosas and wine. When? Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from midday. [caption id="attachment_671514" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Leticia Almeida[/caption] THE WINERY, SURRY HILLS If you're going to go anywhere for a bottomless brunch, The Winery in Surry Hills is a safe bet. Choose from peach, raspberry or lychee bottomless bellinis and the rest is done for you. Starting with olives, pita and chickpea dip to nibble on, the three-course menu ($79) has some standouts, including slow-braised beef cheek ragu, spiced chicken salad and a triple chocolate brownie. With limited capacity, the Crown Street venue fills up fast, so bookings are recommended — particularly on weekends. What's the deal? $85 for food and two hours of bellinis. When? Saturday at 11.30am, 2pm and 4.30pm, and Sundays at 11.30am and 2pm. THE ROYAL HOTEL, PADDINGTON The Royal Paddington has kept it classic when it comes to its brunch, pairing three courses of delicious breakfast fare with two hours of bottomless cocktails ($85), including mimosas, sparkling wine, bloody marys and 4 Pines pale ale. Covering off all your staples, you'll start with a peach, berry and mint salad, followed by the Summer Nourish Board, containing roasted sweet potato, grilled broccolini, zaatar crusted avocado, poached eggs and house-made falafels. Then, you'll end with a piece of rocky road slice. Bottomless watermelon seltzers ($10) can be added, as well as an extra hour of drinks ($30) if you're looking for a big weekend with one of the best bottomless brunches in Sydney. Showcasing sweeping city views from rooftop, the bottomless brunch is reminiscent of an inner city garden party, just a few floors up. What's the deal? $85 for three courses and two hours of bottomless cocktails. When? Saturday and Sunday, 11am–1pm. NOUR, SURRY HILLS The Crown Street palace of pastels and plants has a Sunday brunch offering with one of the best (and smokiest) bloody marys in the city, boundary-pushing Middle Eastern fare — and bottomless cocktails, of course. Two bottomless set menus are available (for $129 and $159), with optional bottomless premium cocktails add-ons available for both. Enjoy 90 minutes of endless rosé or beer while you feast on either the seven- or eight-course menu — including the likes of oysters, scallops, grilled octopus, beef short rib, roasted cauliflower and eggplant and a dessert ending for good measure. At this Sydney bottomless brunch destination, you get bottomless booze as well as a proper feast. What's the deal? $129 or $159 90 minutes of bottomless rosé or beer with either a seven- or eight-course set menu. When? Sunday, 10am–2.30pm. SONORA, POTTS POINT Potts Point newcomer Sonora, from the owners of Bondi's Mexican mainstays Taqiza and Carbon, has upped its weekend game and is serving up unlimited tacos and margaritas every Saturday and Sunday from 12–5pm. You can feast on endless plates of house-made tortillas topped with slow-cooked lamb, steak and avocado mousse, yucatan marinated chicken or roasted cauliflower. On top of the many many tacos, 90 minutes of bottomless booze is included as well. The endless drinks come in the form of classic margaritas, rosé and Tecate beer. And all of this will set you back just $89. It's a clear front-runner for the best bottomless brunch in Sydney. What's the deal? $89 for 90 minutes of bottomless tacos, margaritas, rosé and beer. When? Saturday and Sunday, 12–5pm. [caption id="attachment_741934" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Steven Woodburn[/caption] BABYLON, CBD Every Saturday and Sunday, head to this inner-city hideaway for unlimited mimosas and a selection of meze — all for just $68 per person. The rooftop Middle Eastern eatery is cooking up treats like woodfire shish tawook, kaddinbudu, tabbouleh and hummus. While the food is not bottomless, the drinks sure are — you'll be treated to 90 minutes of mimosas, poured to your heart's content. The deal is available from 11am–12:30pm every weekend — with no end in sight — and bookings can be made via the website. What's the deal? $68 for 90 minutes of bottomless mimosas and a selection of meze. When? Saturday and Sunday, 10.30am–12pm. Top image: Dead Ringer.
Designed by Sydney's Pattern Studio, Glebe's new two-storey wine bar — No. 92 — is so opulent you'd never realise the building had previously been a boot factory — and a bank, a tailor, a pizzeria, a grocer and a private investigator's office. No 92 Glebe Point Road has quite the history. For its latest costume change, the building has been decked out with banquettes, gorgeous marble-topped tables, plush lounges, works by Taiwanese Australian artist Angie Pai on the walls and elaborate pendant lights hanging from the ceiling. The wine list expertly curated with a range of cocktails on offer. The No. 92 menu, created by head chef Galia Valadez, is inspired by authentic Mexican flavours but expect the unexpected. Lighter snacks include tacos and tostadas, like kingfish with smoked shoyu mayo, fermented chilli and shiso. For heartier option, go for the Mexican fried chicken with habanero mayo and togarashi. Or there is some inventive pasta dishes on offer, like the spaghetti chitarra with roasted poblano sauce, asparagus and zucchini flower. [caption id="attachment_759744" align="alignnone" width="1920"] T Pakioufakis[/caption] Images: T Pakioufakis
A true Redfern stalwart, Arcadia Liquors has been doing the small bar scene proud for over seven years. Its high ceilings, golden fairy lights and exposed brick walls are reminiscent of the bars of Berlin, and the covered outdoor courtyard is well suited to those cooler winter months. The mostly Australian wine list is reasonably priced, with glasses of red, white and sparkling wine starting at just $8. Wine regions span from Orange and the Barossa Valley to Tasmania and the Yarra Valley. For brews, there are tinnies of Wayward, Grifter and Yulli's ($10–11), as well as a rotating tap lineup. The bar staff is ready to make any classic cocktail you fancy, too, and during the winter months, you'll find mulled wine — here, dubbed Gunther's Gluhwein — which is available for $10 a glass. The simple food menu focuses on carby, salty snacks (perfect paired with booze), including antipasto plates ($25) and four toasties (which change regularly). At the moment, the latter includes a classic ham and cheese with relish ($6); a chicken schnitty with swiss cheese and Sriracha ($12); and a vego one stuffed with haloumi, roasted peppers, olives, spinach and cheddar ($12). It's a place you'll want to return to again and again, with its lively vibes and a come-as-you-are attitude. Images: Kitti Gould.
City workers, theatre-goers and general pasta-lovers should all have this romantic Italian spot at the very top of their Sydney hit list. Ragazzi comes from the duo behind Love, Tilly Devine and Dear Sainte Éloise — Matthew Swieboda and Nathanial Hatwell — who teamed up with chef Scott Williams (Bacco Osteria e Espresso, MoVida) and front-of-house star Felix Colman (Dear Sainte Éloise) to open the Angel Place pasta joint and minimal-intervention wine bar in 2019. Just as Love, Tilly Devine champions Aussie drops and Dear Sainte Éloise focuses more on the French, Ragazzi does the same for Italian varieties — showcasing small Italian producers and Australian wineries that use Italian grapes. Though classic Australian and French wines are also up for grabs here. The 38-seat wine bar features textured concrete walls, leather banquette seating and a ten-seat, wraparound brass bar. It serves up daily-changing wines by the glass, along with a whopping 250 by the bottle — so there really is a heap to choose from. To round it all out (or kick-start it all), there are also more than 20 different amari and aperitifs. Alongside the natural wines is a succinct food menu that changes regularly and showcases regional Italian pasta dishes. Expect the likes of spaghetti cacio e pepe, and conchiglie with mussels, white beans, fennel and saffron. A focus on no-waste and nose-to-tail eating is present throughout the menu, with Williams sourcing fresh local seafood or whole cuts of meat and breaking them down to create a range of dishes. When in season, expect sea urchin to be a regular feature on the menu, too, with Ragazzi receiving deliveries from a south Sydney diver. While pasta is the star of the food show at Ragazzi, Williams also showcases the Spanish cooking techniques he learned in the kitchens of Madrid and Barcelona. So, expect to dig into Spanish-inflected bar snacks, such as pork croquettes and Cantabrian anchovies on sourdough, on the regular. A few simple salads make the cut, too, along with a chocolate and coffee tart or daily-churned gelato for dessert. Can't make up your mind? You can let the Ragazzi team pull together a set menu for you for $75 a head. The restaurant is constantly bustling, so do yourself a favour and make a booking here. Images: Nikki To for Buffet Appears in: The Best Restaurants in Sydney The Best Italian Restaurants in Sydney for 2023
Spice World Sydney is one in a chain of over 500 international Spice Worlds around the globe, and is a dining experience unlike anything Sydney has seen before. Firstly, be prepared to be greeted by one of two robot waiters at the entrance who will seat you at your table and present the menu. The interior here is huge and you are likely to get lost finding your way to the bathroom, but the elegant and exotic decor make it an adventure all its own. The idea is simple, be presented with your chosen ingredients at your table and cook up a storm at your own hot pot complete with broth, heat and cooking utensils. The items come out looking something bizarre, with the wagyu steak draped around an unwitting Barbie doll as if she's gracing the runway of a Milan fashion show. The order here is to shock and awe — and it doesn't disappoint. We ordered a soup that was half spicy and half chicken and pork broth, and included a combination of pork belly, vegetables, wagyu and crab meat balls. While the broth cooked away we distracted ourselves on the arcade games and a game of jingo. Spice World is the kind of place to bring a group of friends and catch up over conversation and great food. The imaginative presentation ensures there'll be plenty of hilarity and the interactive nature of the hot pot itself makes it more than just your usual dining experience. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time as the options here are endless. And with all the games on offer, it's unlikely you'll want to leave.
One universal takeaway from the past few years is a newfound appreciation for the great outdoors. After all, a hike in nature has loads of benefits: fresh air, fitness, scenery, a feeling of smug satisfaction... what's not to like? There are several summits worth surmounting in New South Wales and a heap of them are located an easy drive from Sydney. Here are the best mountain walks near Sydney for when you need an altitude boost. [caption id="attachment_790361" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Elinor Sheargold via Department of Planning, Industry and Environment[/caption] MOUNT BANKS, BLUE MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK For dazzling views of the Grose Valley and wombat spotting, head to Mount Banks. The 2.4-kilometre return trail starts at the Mount Banks picnic area and begins with a short yet steep climb before ascending gradually to the summit. Most peaks in the Blue Mountains are sandstone but this still has a basalt covering created by volcanoes 20 million years ago. For the flora fiends among you, take in smooth-barked monkey gums and native wildflowers. Once you hit the top, the view of Grose Valley from the summit is awesome. If you'd like to extend the hike, opt to link up with the Mount Banks Road cycle route, which will make the trek about 4.7 kilometres all up. [caption id="attachment_790363" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Peter Beard via Department of Planning, Industry and Environment[/caption] CAREYS PEAK, BARRINGTON TOPS NATIONAL PARK Set within the ancient Gondwana rainforests — a World Heritage Area — Careys Peak takes you through the best bits of Barrington Tops National Park. The 14-kilometre return walk begins at the Mount Barrington picnic area and travels through the Australian wilderness, parts of which will remind you of Lord of the Rings with more giant native ferns and fewer demonic shadow creatures. From the peak, 1544 metres above sea level, soak up the pastoral glory of the Hunter Valley on one side and the expansive Barrington wilderness on the other. [caption id="attachment_790364" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Rachel-Ann Wilcher via Department of Planning, Industry and Environment[/caption] BURNING MOUNTAIN, BURNING MOUNTAIN NATURE RESERVE Burning Mountain (aka Mount Wingen) gets its name from a coal seam, 30 metres underground, that has been on fire for an estimated 5500 years. And, since the fire moves one metre every year, the landscape is continually changing. The hike itself is an accessible four-kilometre loop that allows you to explore this phenomenon and its impact on geology, animals and plants — from the smoke billowing out of the ground to the red gums growing along cracks in the earth. The Burning Mountain Nature Reserve is a 3.5-hour drive from Sydney, so we recommend staying overnight at a campsite or at accommodation in nearby Scone (the town, not the baked good). [caption id="attachment_789748" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] DONKEY MOUNTAIN, WOLGAN VALLEY Wolgan Valley sits between Gardens of Stone National Park and Newnes Plateau. Somewhere in the middle is Donkey Mountain. Reaching its summit involves weaving your way through an adventurer's paradise — in and out of canyons, pagodas and caves splashed with rock orchids, ferns and natural vertical gardens. The trails are largely unmarked and difficult to navigate, so it's best to come prepared for a challenge and take a compass/GPS or an experienced climber. We recommend staying the night before at the nearby Newnes campground to allow plenty of time to explore the region. [caption id="attachment_790360" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Susan Davis via Department of Planning, Industry and Environment[/caption] PIERIES PEAK, MOUNT ROYAL NATIONAL PARK Don't let the three-kilometre return hike to Pieries Peak fool you. It may not be long but it is steep. The challenging trail starts at Youngville campground and launches straight into action, climbing through rocky ridges, snow grass and rainforest. Once you reach the top, kick back and enjoy views across Hunter Valley and Lake Saint Clair. The peak gets pretty cold in winter so check the forecast and make sure it's not arctic up there before you commit. In general, the region's weather is unpredictable, so come prepared for all scenarios. [caption id="attachment_840238" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] THE CASTLE, MORTON NATIONAL PARK The Budawangs are a three-hour drive from Sydney, so if you can't cut an early start, head down the night before and pitch a tent by the river at Long Gully campground. It'll give you time to physically and mentally prep, because The Castle hike isn't exactly a lazy stroll. Prepare for rock scrambling at great heights. If you'd rather hike with a pro, you can book in a guided tour through Big Nature Adventures. Despite its difficulty, this hike is worth it — The Castle is hands down one of the best mountain walks in New South Wales, giving you amazing views over Morton National Park, the Byangee Walls and Pigeon House Mountain. [caption id="attachment_789764" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] WENTWORTH PASS, BLUE MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK Do go chasing waterfalls at Wentworth Pass walking trail. Located two hours from Sydney, the grade four hike is a five-kilometre loop that takes around four hours to complete. The trek is a segment of the famed National Pass trail. Along the way, you'll hike deep into the Valley of the Waters encountering seven waterfalls — starting with Wentworth Falls. The lookout boasts views across the Jamison Valley to Mount Solitary. You'll then undertake one helluva steep climb, passing five more waterfalls along the way, finishing at the breathtaking Empress Falls lookout. BULAHDELAH MOUNTAIN TRAIL, BULAHDELAH Located an hour north of Newcastle, the Bulahdelah Mountain boasts a relaxed 4.5-kilometre return hike up to the top of the mountain. Once you reach the summit, you'll be treated to expansive views of the surrounding bushland, but there's also plenty to discover on your way up. Sitting in Worimi Country, the mountain is a sacred Indigenous site with a traditional cultural space found halfway up. Throughout the hike, you'll find tree carvings that were created in 2018 by local First Nations community members. And, while you're in Bulahdelah, you can stop by the Grandis picnic area to find the tallest standing tree in NSW. Top image: Morton National Park by Destination NSW
Land of leafy streets, flowery parks and sparkling Harbour coves, the lower north shore could fool you into thinking that it's too quiet for any sort of nightlife. But among the greenery and gated manors, there are pubs and small bars aplenty. From Kirribilli to Cremorne, North Sydney to Neutral Bay, there's a drinking hole for whatever mood you're in, whether that's sampling fine wine and share plates in calm surrounds, or lingering over a Melbourne Bitter to a rock 'n' roll soundtrack. THE GREENS, NORTH SYDNEY The Greens isn't just a bar. It's also a lawn bowls hub and, depending on the day, a petting zoo, live music venue and outdoor yoga studio. Get as active as you like or kick back, do nothing and take in the Harbour views. On the drink side of things, you can settle in with a drink for one or grab one of the venue's share cocktails (which are designed for four people). The Watermelon Kegger (with vodka, watermelon and lychee juice) is always a hit, as is the Belvedere Spritz if you're looking for something bubbly SOCAL, NEUTRAL BAY You might not associate the lower north shore with California, but swing by SoCal and you may change your mind. SoCal is the brainchild of mates Ben Carroll and Hamish Watts, who travelled around the state together and fell for it hard. Upon returning, they decided to set up their own slice of Cali in Sydney. Settle into a burnt orange seat beneath colourful bunting, and order an cocktail smoked in-house, like the Hey Ron! with a smokey mezcal, Campari and sweet vermouth concoction. There are also a stack of Mexican-influenced snacks and feasts to match. FIREFLY, NEUTRAL BAY Firefly gets its name from Lucetta Sernia, an Italian rebel who dropped out of school as a teen to join a travelling cabaret. Years later, she swapped performing for running a small bar, which she never named to skip paying licensing fees. Locals came to call it 'La Lucetta/La Lucciola', meaning Little Light/The Firefly. Sydney's own Firefly is a sweet, laidback spot for sharing good bottles of wine and plates of sous vide hanger steak, wagyu cheeseburger sliders and Moroccan spiced chicken breast. THE BOTANIST, KIRRIBILLI The Botanist is a paean to Gerard Fothergill, the explorer and, well, botanist who studied plants and spices and their medicinal qualities. Born in England, he journeyed through India, Africa and the Middle East before spending his final years in Kirribilli. Herbs, spices and adventure are all part of The Botanist experience. Take the signature cocktail menu, for example, Purple Haze which features blueberry-infused Maker's Mark, peach liqueur and orange bitters, and the Birds of Paradise with spiced rum, Campari, mango and absinthe mist. THE OAKS, NEUTRAL BAY The Oaks has kept lower north shore drinkers fed, hydrated and merry since 1885. This Neutral Bay institution gives you a choice of five drinking dens. Nineteenthirtysix is a throwback to the 1940s with its zinc bar and leather couches, while the indoor-outdoor Garden Pavilion is all light, air and rambling vines. For pool, cards and chairs covered in blue flamingoes, check out the Cue and Cushion, and for drinks beneath their namesake oak tree wrapped in fairy lights, look to The Garden Bar. If you're hanging out in a group, get stuck into The Oaks' carafes, one being the Fijian Punch with spiced rum, lychees, mint, orange, lime and ginger. STUFFED BEAVER, CROWS NEST Complete with poutine fries, burgers, chicken wings and bric-a-brac, the second iteration of Bondi's much-loved Stuffed Beaver has opened in Crows Nest. Plus, there are new arcade games. We're talking stuff-of-gamer's-dreams machines that let you play every game created during the halcyon days of the 80s and 90s — from Double Dragon and Street Fighter to Golden Axe. Or grab a Philter brew fro Marrickville and settle in front of the enormous 120-inch screen, which will be screening a steady stream of local and international sport. On the menu you'll find the venue's much-lusted-after chicken wings, poutine fries, hot dogs, nachos and burgers — from the classic cheeseburger and the Beaver Fried Chicken Burger to the Make 'Americana' Great Again. Vegetarians are looked after, too, with a range of salads and a mushroom burger. THE CHEESE AND WINE CO, NEUTRAL BAY This aptly named cheese and wine bar sits on Grosvenor Lane, just around the corner from the institution that is The Oaks. The 50-strong wine list rotates every three months and spans from easy-to-drink vino to wines geared for a more complex palate, so both novice oenophiles and budding sommelier types can feel at home here. If you find a wine you really like, you'll eventually be able to take it home with you — all of the wines will make their way onto the online shop once they're rotated off the bar list. On the cheese side of things, the bar has 13 different types to choose from at the moment, with specialties like deep fried camembert and baked brie also making the menu. And like the wine, this list will change regularly as well. Cheese boards are served as share platters alongside charcuterie, salumi and other antipasti, so eating with your hands is encouraged. THE HAYBERRY, CROWS NEST If you like your bevs with a dose of good ol' blues, rock 'n' roll and photos of Ned Kelly, then get 'em at The Hayberry. The drinks list starts with the classics like XXXX Gold and Melbourne Bitter, swings by a bunch of bottled crafties from all over Australia and the US, and finishes up with some traditional cocktails. On tap, you'll find more craft beers, rotated seasonally and served by the pint. And make sure to match your drink choice with some beer-friendly fare, be it popcorn chicken or a Big Stack burger with waffle fries. And if you're there Thursday, don't miss the $1 wings. [caption id="attachment_666653" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Zoe May[/caption] THE FOXTROT, CROWS NEST Walking into The Foxtrot feels a bit like dropping by someone's lounge room — were that someone a bit obsessed with all things Gothic (and whiskey). Think dim lighting, cosy couches and an AstroTurf courtyard. DJs add to the atmosphere on Friday and Saturday nights, too. The drinks list specialises in refreshing seasonal concoctions, with autumn's list including the Disco Punch — with pisco, pineapple syrup and candied pineapple — and the Bison Grass Cooler with vodka, apple and lemongrass. Come Tuesday and Wednesday for $10 pizzas or Thursday for a $10 Jameson and apple juice. TONIC LANE, NEUTRAL BAY Since June 2016, Tonic Lane has been upping the spirits game on the lower north shore. By day, the venue is a cafe, but come 4pm, a bell rings and the mighty gin and tonic takes over, turning the venue into a full fledged 'ginoteria'. Holding one of Sydney's largest collection of Australian gins under one roof, the bar has over 100 Aussie gins in its arsenal, including locals such as Archie Rose, Poor Toms and Young Henrys Noble Cut, and from further afield, Four Pillars (Victoria) and Hobart No 4 (Tassie). On the cocktail list you'll find gin-based originals including the Papa Smurf — made with gin, mandarin liqueur, mint and lemon — or you can build-your-own custom cocktail. Top image: The Oaks
You'd be a real boob to pass on Redfern's arts bar and creative space, The Bearded Tit. Named after a moustachioed song-bird, this is a place where colourful characters flock. The Bearded Tit sits on the quiet side of Regent Street, surrounded by residential buildings, office spaces and convenience stores, as well as a couple of killer cafes and bakeries. That is, until you reach number 183. Inside, it's a museum of oddities, where the weird and wonderful come together in a circus of colour and activity. Leave your inhibitions at the door by the collection of crocheted penises (or whatever other alternative selection of items is on display when you visit). There are barber chairs, fruit chandeliers and a taxidermy boar playing the trumpet — you get the idea. For so much zaniness, the cocktail list is surprisingly sober, with a short selection of time-honoured classics and a few house signatures. On tap, take your pick from Philter XPA, Shark Island Lager, Grifter's Serpent's Kiss Pilsner or the Tit Ale which is the team's own specialty brew. While The Bearded Tit doesn't have a proper kitchen, it does plate up some pretty good food. Try the Starving Artist Plate which is described as "a fat serve of creative fuel on the cheap". It includes cheddar cheese, cabanossi, cured sausages, Sicilian olives & Jatz crackers. You can also try a classic hotdog or a vegan alternative, with a bunch of toppings added — think pickles, sauerkraut, cheddar and vegan cheese, chilli sauce and all your usual condiments. With a revolving cultural program of arts and music regularly released on the website, you can guarantee a good lark at The Bearded Tit. Images: Katje Ford. Updated Tuesday, March 21, 2023 Appears in: The Best Bars in Sydney
Surry Hills' latest wine bar may be small in size and servings – with 20-or-so seats, a snacky menu of delicate share plates and a carefully curated wine list — but Bar Copains is big on many things. Think flavour, heart and coolness (in a way that isn't intimidating). 'Copains' means 'friends' in French, and fittingly so. It was born from a friendship between chefs Morgan McGlone and Nathan Sasi – and now it continues to thrive as a neighbourhood joint where friendships bloom over a glass of natural wine and some seriously delicious snacks. For some of us (with more generous spirits) the influx of share-plate menus has been welcomed with open arms. At Bar Copains you can try a Pigs Head Fritti with a zippy gribiche (kind of like a combination of tartar and egg salad) then move on to some stracciatella with truffle honey, perfectly balanced on a crunchy rye cracker. Then, why not a bite of salty anchovy and olive on a bed of puff pastry? Finish it off with a rich lamb ragu pappardelle followed by some fresh sweet peaches with meringue and cream. The menu changes regularly but one thing is constant, sharing is caring. And here you will want to, and can try it all. The venue sits on an unassuming corner on Albion street, offering an elevated yet laid-back neighbourhood charm. You can sit out on the leafy street or head inside where the walls are proudly lined with McGlone and Sasi's wine collection. The decor is paired back but with an intimate and cosy vibe that steers clear of any stuffy pretentiousness. It's a place to bring a special date or reunite with an old friend, but it's not the best spot for a big group — intimacy is key here. So yes, Sydney's Bar Copains may be small, but that is exactly how we like it.
There's a certain precision to good Japanese cuisine. A beautiful neatness and cleanness in both presentation and taste. That's not to say it's dull though — sometimes the most unassuming looking morsel will pack a flavour punch that will knock you off your seat. Japanese restaurants in Sydney take advantage of some of the best and freshest produce on earth and use it to create masterpiece dishes, many of which truly are world renowned. This list includes restaurants that have been producing dazzling food for years, while some are newer on the scene. Some are traditional while others follow a more modern path, and we've tried to provide an option for all budgets. In each one you'll have a memorable meal that will help you fall in love with Japanese cuisine all over again. TETSUYA'S, CBD Regularly billed as one of the greatest dining experiences in Sydney, Tetsuya's is famous, hyped and yes, expensive — so is Tetsuya Wakuda's Japanese-French fine dining degustation experience worth it? In short: yes. The attention to detail that goes into every course is extraordinary, the service is always world class and the food is exquisite. The course of confit of ocean trout that comes towards the end of the degustation is internationally acclaimed for good reason, but no less impressive are earlier courses of scampi tail served with frozen egg yolk and caviar, or the rare wagyu tenderloin that could be cut with a teaspoon. You're already splurging just by being here, so go all the way and get the matched drinks — it's a flow of sakes and wines that genuinely do add to the ultra high-end dining experience. SASHIMI SHINSENGUMI, CROWS NEST Across the bridge, tucked away in Crows Nest is a tiny Japanese eatery that deserves to be as famous as Tetsuya's. Sashimi Shinsengumi seats just over a dozen people, and each night serves a 16-20 course 'omakase' menu — meaning it's chef's choice for the entire night. Shinji Matsui puts on a show throughout the meal, cutting, blowtorching and shaping each mouthful of sushi and sashimi, just moments before you eat it. It's seafood heavy, with delicate morsels of mackerel, fatty salmon belly and just-cooked scallops — all are expertly seasoned, so no dunking wildly into pots of soy sauce here. It's completely BYO, but don't expect to just turn up — dinner service is always booked out weeks, if not months in advance. [caption id="attachment_674510" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Trent van der Jagt[/caption] GAKU, DARLINGHURST By day, Gaku serves up steaming bowls of ramen. By night, it's an innovative izakaya with ingredients and techniques borrowed from across Europe and Asia. So, really, you get the best of both Japanese worlds — both in the four types of ramen that chefs Haru Inukai and Shimon Hanakura dish up and the innovative dinner menu. At first glance, it's what you'd expect from a Japanese grill: karaage, wagyu, sashimi and pork belly. But look closer and you'll find ingredients and techniques borrowed from France, Italy and China. The wagyu is bresaola, cured and thinly sliced and served with Padrón peppers and a shichimi buttermilk. There's a burrata salad, too, with chunks of tomato and salty bonito flakes, and Inukai's signature, a riff on Hakka salt-baked chicken. CHO CHO SAN, POTTS POINT There aren't many places in Sydney doing modern Japanese izakaya-style food better than this Potts Point eatery. There's a real sense of playfulness to the servings — miso eggplant on a stick is sweet and savoury all at once, unctuous and gooey but firm enough to hold its shape — it's utterly moreish. The 'Japanese Bolognaise' is an umami powerhouse of thick udon noodles coated in a chilli pork mince. Petuna ocean trout is served raw with black pepper and wasabi, letting the freshness of the fish be the star. Make sure to wash it down with one of the excellent cocktails with a Japanese twist — yuzu caramel Old Fashioned anyone? Don't forget dessert either, the delicate cones of green tea soft serve aren't too sweet to stop you from going in for seconds. [caption id="attachment_657569" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Trent van der Jagt[/caption] BON JAPANESE, CANTERBURY Seventy-two hours is the time it takes husband and wife owners Takumi and Miki Marui to prepare the pork ramen ($15) at their beloved home-style Japanese restaurant. Why? Because it tastes better. The sliced chashu is smoky, the broth is rich, but not too rich that you won't finish the bowl (which is their intention), the noodles perfectly chewy and the marinated soft-boiled egg makes it a ten out of ten dish. That alone should tell you what type of place this small Canterbury Road eatery is. Locals come to Bon for the quality of food and the ever-changing daily specials that range from tuna belly to sea urchin. It's certainly up there with the best of them, but you'd never know it from its humble appearance — it's well-hidden behind a skinny roller door by day on one of Sydney's busiest roads. Grab your pen and order paper, and start writing down dishes like the karaage chicken ($12) with house-made tartare sauce. It's hot, juicy and tender — the way fried chicken should be. Small plates like handmade gyoza ($10), assorted sushi and sashimi ($16) are always fresh and served elegantly on the plate. And classics like the chicken donburi ($14) and pork katsu curry ($15) are packed with so much flavour, you'll want to personally thank the chef before you leave. [caption id="attachment_659260" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Letícia Almeida[/caption] CHACO BAR, DARLINGHURST The wafting smell of grilling meat will hit you as you walk into this teensy, 25-seater yakitori bar where delicious morsels on sticks are what you're going to be smashing. The menu has a strong selection of sharable bites like sashimi, some spectacular gyoza and steamed buns stuffed with glistening pork belly, but the yakitori sticks are the stars. Everything from chicken meatballs and lamb shoulder to chicken hearts and gizzards are threaded onto skewers and grilled. Knock 'em back with some plum wine or a Japanese beer and you're set. The ramen here is also incredible, but sometimes runs out before dinner service as only a limited number of bowls are made daily. IZAKAYA FUJIYAMA, SURRY HILLS Come for the food, stay for the whisky — that's our advice at this super fun diner-bar in Surry Hills. Japanese style bar food that's perfect for sharing is the vibe here. It's affordable, tasty and great for small groups. Kenji's fried chicken with wasabi mayo, the pork belly with miso and eggplant and the agedashi tofu are all standouts and match perfectly with a beer or two. Want something a little lighter? Try one of sushi hand rolls or a few freshly shucked oysters. The sake list is impressive, with something for every taste and did we mention the whisky? They have over 60 types just from Japan alone... SOKYO, PYRMONT You can spend all the money in the world and still not buy class — in fact, a few spots in the Star Casino complex give off that exact vibe. But nestled in behind a very discrete entrance is Sokyo, an elegant, delicious and, yes, classy spot for a meal. The sashimi is uniformly fresh and delicious, Maguro Tataki is a must-order — the presentation with edible flowers, smoked ponzu and blush-coloured fat slices of fish is just perfect. The baby capsicum tempura poppers and grilled lamb served with a miso and eggplant puree showcase Japanese fusion at its best. Service is discrete but friendly, the wine list is excellent. Sokyo isn't cheap but it's a class act through and through. SUSHI ON STANLEY, DARLINGHURST On the other end of the price scale is this gem, tucked away in an area of Darlinghurst more known for Italian cuisine. Fine dining it ain't, but the food here is damn fine and unbeatable value. The sushi and sashimi is all fresh and the huge menu has almost every bento box combination you could think of — like a huge meal of tempura, teriyaki chicken, rice, miso and salad for under $15. Menu items like the udon noodle soups or spicy salmon salad are excellent if you're after something lighter and the walls are always coated in handwritten market-price specials. Want more? It's also BYO for beer and wine. TOKO, SURRY HILLS Go early, because Toko in Surry Hills is popular, but doesn't take bookings. There is however an excellent bar you can grab a cocktail at while you wait for a table. Famous for its first rate sushi bar, robata grill and considered wine list, Toko does incredible things with Australian seafood and packs a punch in the carnivore stakes as well with some of the best wagyu sirloin we've had in Sydney. Our menu picks include the grilled scallops, duck breast with pickled nashi pear and the spicy salmon roll. Desserts aren't an afterthought here — try the yuzu cheesecake for a sweet slap of citrus. Alternatively there are a couple of decent value chef's tasting menus which might get you eating a few amazing things you wouldn't have otherwise considered. SAKE, THE ROCKS One bite of the kingfish jalapeno with yuzu soy and you'll understand why this is the signature dish of this excellent fine dining modern Japanese restaurant. The salty sweet slivers of fish are given a chilli kick that never overpowers — only compliments. Sake's original outpost (there are now others in Double Bay, Brisbane and Melbourne) is set into a heritage listed building in the tourist haven that is The Rocks. The miso-caramelised toothfish, wagyu brisket and the sashimi tacos are all excellent — in fact Sake's only real downside is you'll run out of stomach space well before you run out of things you'll want to order. BAR UME, SURRY HILLS Presentation in this ultra-modern Japanese Surry Hills space is everything — and it's no surprise really as head chef Kerby Craig trained as an apprentice at Tetsuya's. The restaurant has had a refresh of late and is now much more casual, focusing on Japanese bar food and burgers. Be sure to try the fried prawn katsu burger — but there are vego and gluten free options available. Top image: Nikki To/Cho Cho San.
If you're spending a night in a hotel for a romantic evening away from your own sheets, W Brisbane wants to give your next visit to the riverside spot a buzz. Because it's that time of year where everyone's thinking about love and lust (like that's not happening everyday anyway), the inner-city hotel is transforming its suites into sexual wellness havens. And as well as nabbing access to an in-room lingerie selection, you'll also get to play with a mini bar filled with sex toys. Whether you're enjoying a Brissie staycation or you're in town from further afield, you you can book into the hotel chain's new 'love your buzz' package, which is on offer in partnership with Lovehoney Australia. It's available from Monday, February 14 (of course) up until Thursday, March 31 — and while it doesn't come cheap, with prices starting at $1569, hopefully you and your partner will be coming into quite the pleasurable stay. As well as that $800-plus mini bar filled with sex toys and the Lovehoney lingerie — both complimentary — the room includes access to a 'sexologist concierge' service, which lets you book in a free phone consultation through sexologist Chantelle Otten's clinic. You'll also be able to watch a dedicated on-demand streaming service filled with educational sexual wellness videos (so no one will be blushing over in-room movie rental charges), and listen to playlists that've been curated by sexologists and sex coaches to get you in the mood. The package features champagne on arrival as well, plus breakfast for two in your room and a bath soak — because you'll be staying in one of W Brisbane's luxury suites, which has a tub. If you do celebrate Valentine's Day, this is quite the way to do it. And if you're after something slightly less pricey, there's also a 'what the buzz' package from $969 (yes, we meant it when we said slightly cheaper) that comes with a night in a luxury suite, champers upon arrival, a bubble bath, in-room brekkie for two and a Lovehoney couples sex toy kit. For more information about W Brisbane's 'love your buzz' and 'what the buzz' packages, or to book a room before Thursday, March 31, head to the hotel's website.
Get ready to embark on a tantalising culinary journey that will transport you straight to the sun-kissed shores of the Amalfi Coast — all without leaving Aussie soil. Together with Aperol, we've scoured every corner of this vast land to curate a guide to the bars and restaurants that capture the essence of coastal Italy's gastronomic wonders. From echoing laidback osterias to swanky harbourside bars exuding Riviera-style opulence, our roundup is a tribute to the vibrancy of Italian culture infused with an Australian twist. So, fasten your seatbelts and prepare for an unforgettable expedition. Your table overlooking the azure seas awaits — no boarding pass required.
While Australia's population continues to grow, it's a sporadic mix of where. The same can be said for Sydney, a famously multicultural city of over five million people, but that population ebbs and flows. Now, new data compiled by the Sydney Morning Herald has provided a snapshot into the future of the Harbour City by analysing its population in detail — revealing which suburbs saw the most change in 2025. Affordability plays an important role in population statistics, and this study proves it. Overall, in 2025, Sydney saw the most residents move away of all Australian capital cities, bidding farewell to over 33,000 residents. At a more local level, a shift is underway that hints at an interesting future for the city. [caption id="attachment_756230" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] In 2025, some of Sydney's most stereotypically popular suburbs saw a decline in population. High prices in the sunny Eastern Suburbs are pushing residents out, with Coogee and Clovelly losing over 100 permanent residents, and the Rose Bay/Vaucluse/Watsons Bay area also seeing a total loss, albeit by just 33 residents. Suburbs that saw the steepest declines are home to ageing populations, with Sydney's upper North Shore losing approximately 160 residents between Wahroonga, Turramurra, Gordon/Killara and Lindfield/Roseville — in total, 42 Sydney suburbs saw more deaths than births over the year. The suburb with the biggest loss overall was in Kariong, west of Gosford, which lost a total of 1.6 percent of its population, followed by a 1.4 percent loss in Castle Hill East. [caption id="attachment_1092348" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] iStock[/caption] Meanwhile, growth was almost unanimous in Western Sydney. The most growth was in the Box Hill to Nelson area, which saw a growth of 17 percent (approximately 3911 people). That was followed by the Austral/Greendale area at almost 16 percent growth and the Marsden Park/Shanes Park area at almost 12 percent growth. Despite the net loss of 33,282 residents, Sydney's population continued to grow last year — albeit at the slowest rate since the depths of the COVID pandemic — welcoming over 75,000 new residents. In terms of density, Sydney's inner-city reigns supreme, with Haymarket/Sydney South, Chippendale and Ultimo taking the top three positions for population density at 22,903, 20,476 and 18,851 residents per square kilometre, respectively. KPMG urban economist Terry Rawnsley told SMH that the data reveals Western Sydney has a bright future, saying, "Housing affordability in the eastern suburbs is pushing people out, whereas the west is proving a stable option for many young families." Pair these findings with the Western Sydney Airport and Metro West projects, both new arteries in the region, and the new dawn of Sydney could be where the sun sets. Like what you see? Subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter to get stories just like these straight to your inbox.
South Western Sydney has long been home to some of the city's most exciting and diverse eats — from longstanding Vietnamese institutions to generational Lebanese bakeries and thriving suburban restaurants, the region's culinary landscape has been defined by everyday generosity. But big-ticket fine-dining builds have traditionally sat closer to the CBD. MAGMA by Dany Karam — now open inside the all-new Cabravale Club Resort — aims to shift that balance, bringing a polished and theatrical dining experience to the south west. For Karam, a proud Western Sydney local, MAGMA is both the first chapter in a three-part, long-awaited follow-up to his acclaimed stint at The Star (though he's hardly been on holiday since stepping down as Executive Chef in 2022) and a deeply personal project. Four years in the making, the restaurant is inspired by the charcoal-fired Sunday family lunches of Karam's childhood, layered with flavours influenced by his travels through Turkey, Lebanon, Japan and Vietnam. Fire is very much the star here. An open charcoal grill is at the heart of the open kitchen, flanked by a glass-fronted dry-age room — dubbed 'Dany's Butchery' — where premium meats and seafood hang to peak flavour before hitting the pass, with availability changing daily. Karam has worked with longtime collaborators Ben and David Blackmore to secure whole-carcass deliveries of their sought-after Rhone wagyu, forming the backbone of a heavyweight steak program that also includes cuts from Hereford and Speckle Park. There's even a 600-gram Wagyu Trio designed for comparing different feeding styles side by side. Beyond the woodfired grill, the menu puts thoughtful twists on steakhouse classics. Highlights of the ingredient-driven one-page selection include Queensland spanner crab tossed with olive oil, dashi cream, coriander and finger lime with fluffy brioche; charcoal-kissed Condabilla murray cod with broccolini and a smoky mussel and ginger beurre blanc; and pillowy semolina gnocchi with exotic mushrooms, brown butter and crisp sage leaves. Drinks are similarly considered. The cocktail program by Charlotte Belvisotti (Mimi's, King Clarence, Amorica, Palmer & Co) moves from playful signatures like the açai sour — hibiscus vodka, sudachi and marshmallow foam — to the silky, umami-forward Magma Martini with vodka, olive oil, seaweed, sake and house pickles. Meanwhile, a 500-bottle, floor-to-ceiling wine cabinet is designed to encourage discovery across global varietals. The dining room makes a statement of its own: a dramatic six-metre-high space clad in black marble, dark copper and faux-fur panel accents that feel both luxurious and intimate. A striking produce display and sleek marble bar at the entrance give way to a 140-seat dining area, complete with a 16-person private room. Set within the new Cabravale Club Resort precinct — also home to a Novotel, event centre and sun-washed pool lounge — MAGMA is a defining new arrival for Sydney's south west. And, for Karam, it's not a moment too soon for this kind of destination dining. "What used to be a CBD-only experience is now here for our community," he says. "Western Sydney deserves a restaurant that's both elevated and welcoming. That's Magma."
When Andres Walters (The Lobo Plantation, Kittyhawk), partner Gabrielle Walters (Black by Ezard) and mate Daniel Noble (Ramblin' Rascal Tavern, Mojo Record Bar) decided to open a new bar, finding the perfect location turned out to be much easier said than done. But when eye-watering rents fortuitously forced the trio to start looking up, they stumbled upon an unassuming space within a run-down office building — and Old Mate's Place was born. A little tough to find, but well worth the effort, the two-level set-up makes for a charming hideaway, pulling inspiration from the diminutive drinking dens you'll find hidden throughout office blocks in Japan. Inside, the trio has paid homage to the Clarence Street building's "beautiful guts" and its heritage-listed facade. The bar's lower floor calls to mind an old library, complete with stately bookshelves, dapper furnishings and family heirlooms throughout. Foliage creeps in and around the bar like it's been there forever. And now, after opening in September 2018, the bar's secluded — and equally as green — rooftop space is ripe for sinking beers and carefully created cocktails. If you can get there early, nab a spot at the bar or one of the few low tables before the crowds come marching in. While their previous bars might have built reputations on showcasing specific spirits, Old Mate's Place sees Walters and Noble widen the focus, embracing the creative space that comes with celebrating all booze in equal measure. Expect a cocktail list that's broad and oft-changing, spreading plenty of love across a 300-strong back bar selection. To match, the kitchen's currently pumping out four variations of a Philly cheesesteak and a few meats and cheeses. Updated Tuesday, March 21, 2023. Appears in: The Best Bars in Sydney
Chef Dany Karam might just be the hardest-working man in Sydney hospitality. Since wrapping a five-year stint as Executive Chef at The Star's fine diner BLACK in 2022, he's taken on several consulting gigs, brand ambassadorships, and even launched a catering business. And come November, the celebrated chef will return to the pass as he brings a taste of the city's high-end dining scene to Southwest Sydney with three new venues in Cabramatta. The first to arrive are Magma, a fire-led fine diner, and Caffè Vicini, a sprawling all-day cafe and bakery, both set to open on Sunday, November 16. They'll be followed in mid-2026 by Primitivo, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, completing the Karam-led lineup inside the Cabravale Club Resort — a $230-million redevelopment of the former Cabra-Vale Diggers, anchored by a Novotel hotel with resort-style amenities. The headline act is Magma, an ambitious grill-focused restaurant Karam describes as "four years in the making". Designed around a central open kitchen, the space will put diners front and centre of the action, with dramatic charcoal flames fuelling a menu that brings together premium Australian produce with Karam's Lebanese heritage and Japanese precision. Expect a tight edit of high-quality proteins, boutique vegetables and bold fire-kissed flavours, crafted with Karam's signature flair. Adding to the theatre is The Butchery, a purpose-built facility set within Magma that will service all three venues. Here, meat and seafood will be dry-aged and prepared in-house, ensuring a consistent quality and supply chain across the precinct. While Magma promises the drama, Caffè Vicini — 'neighbours' in Italian — will provide the comfort. The all-day cafe will serve specialty coffee alongside house-baked pastries, focaccia sandwiches and light snacks featuring seasonal produce and meats prepared at The Butchery. The final piece of the puzzle will arrive in 2026 with Primitivo, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant set to further bolster the precinct's dining credentials. Karam has carefully hand-picked his suppliers and team for the new venues. He's continuing a 12-year partnership with David Blackmore Wagyu, while also collaborating with Appellation Oysters, Caviar Luxe, boutique local farms and artisanal producers like Simon Johnson. He's also reassembled his dream team from BLACK — Executive Chef Sebastien Geray and Restaurant Manager Tim Chen — who helped earn the venue a reputation as one of Sydney's best steak restaurants. "To say I am excited about bringing my home community these new dining experiences is an understatement," says Karam ahead of the openings. "My team is dedicated to creating and delivering a standard of dining that knocks people over. I can't wait to get back on the grill and welcome my guests on the floor." Magma and Caffè Vicini are slated to open on Sunday, November 16 at Cabravale Club Resort, 1 Bartley Street, Canley Vale. Primitivo will open in 2026. For more information, head to the precinct's website.
Liberty Hall comes to Moore Park from the team behind Mary's. While the 1200-capacity concert venue only opened its doors in late 2022, you may recognise it as its former iterations — Hi-Fi and Max Watt's. The longstanding music venue has been taken under the wing of burger bros, Mary's founders Jake Smyth and Kenny Graham, who have given it a refurbishment and a fresh genre-spanning music program. "We are humbled at another opportunity to take the reins of yet another fallen live music venue and pour energy and hard work into creating an exciting creative space for Sydney's arts community," Graham said back when the venue was first announced. Upon opening, Liberty Hall kicked things off with a sold-out show from dance music legend Moodyman and an intimate last-minute show from The Killers while they were in town, setting the tone for big-name acts and fun surprises. This unlikely pair of acts signposted the variety of performers popping up in the hall or outside in its openair gig space. Local party collectives, world-conquering DJs, serene folk singers, Christian hard-rock acts and even pro wrestling events have all made use of the venue in its opening months. Next door, you'll find an all-new Mary's dining establishment boasting the classic menu items that Sydneysiders have come to love. The Mary's Burger, the buttermilk fried chicken (which we rate among the best fried chicken in Sydney), veggie burgers, mash with gravy, trash can bacon and plenty of vegan options all grace the menu. Next time you're heading to a match at the SCG or the newly revamped Allianz Stadium — or a gig at the Liberty Hall or Hordern Pavilion across the road, you can now stop in and get a juicy burger topped with crisp lettuce, tomato and Mary's famous sauce. Top image: Harpreet Singh
Even with all the specialty bars in town, Champagne has not yet had its chance in the spotlight. Does it have the dedicated Sydney fan base to carry the show? Or will we get confused drinking it with no nuptials to toast or New Year to welcome? All questions will be answered with the opening of the Champagne Room, coming to The Winery's upper floor in late September. Visitors will be able to enjoy city skyline views while sipping on their flute of Perrier-Jouet's Belle Epoque 2006, which will only be available by the glass in Sydney at this venue (and which would ordinarily set you back a cool $200 a bottle). A bevy of other choices from luxury Champagne producers will also be available, alongside cocktails and Australian and international wines. "Surry Hills nightlife is about to house one of the most exciting new bars in Sydney," says Paul Schulte, creative director of the Keystone Group. "We've created a seeming synthesis of comfort and a unique escape for Sydney's champagne lovers." Inside, the bar will be fitted with private booths with 'Champagne bells' which light up whenever you need your drink refilled, forgoing the torturous process of always trying to catch the waiter's eye. While the Champagne Room will come with The Winery's usual food options, on the weekends visitors are invited to splurge on a seafood brunch, including freshly shucked oysters, Harvey Bay scallops and Cloudy Bay prawns. Bless my poor wallet. The Champagne Room will be open every evening 5pm until late and from 11am on weekends.
You don't need an excuse to visit Bali — the endless sun, world-class beaches and enchanting cuisine are easily enough reasons to head straight to the airport. Yet add one more to the list as Lyvin Melasti, a new boutique collection of villas and suites, has opened its doors. Sure, there's no shortage of luxury stays on the island, but this refined take on barefoot luxury is more thoughtful — and plush — than most. Perched on three lush acres above the white sands of Melasti Beach, think minimalist architecture, sweeping ocean views and non-stop relaxation. Tucked into the limestone hills of Bali's Bukit Peninsula, 18 ocean-facing villas with private pools dot four cliffside levels drenched in greenery. Designed to integrate with the landscape, each villa's green roof is a terrace for the accom above, while pathways through the stay flow with the coast's contours. Inside each villa, the finishes combine Scandinavian and Balinese design philosophies. Chosen for their inherent calmness and textural quality, you'll find locally sourced Sulawesi marble floors, custom teak furniture, soft neutral tones and floor-to-ceiling windows inviting stellar Indian Ocean views. "We designed Lyvin Melasti to feel both grounding and expansive — a space that invites rest, reflection, and reconnection," says Lyvin Properities Co-Founder and Product Director Victoria Sokovykh. "Everything is intentional, but never overdone. It's a place to breathe." While already appealing, this luxe addition to Bali's accommodation scene is set to get even better. The stay will launch 20 ocean-view suites in December, with plans for a signature restaurant and wellness spa to open in the near future. Lyvin Melasti is now open in the Uluwatu region of Bali. Head to Instagram for more information.
Australia's reigning gelato kings are back at it. Gelato Messina, which transformed from a single Sydney store in 2002 into a bona fide national empire, has just launched two Woolworths-exclusive flavours — and we are running, not walking, to get out hands on these ones, winter be damned. Landing now in freezers nationwide and online, the brand-new P.B. Peanut Butter Fudge & Praline and Super Flan sound exactly like the types of indulgent flavours that has seen Messina become a household name, stacked with in-house sauces and signature mix-ins. Channeling strong 'give the people what they want' energy, each of the new flavours is a riff on a beloved Messina signature. Long-time devotees might find the P.B. Peanut Butter Fudge & Praline familiar, and they wouldn't be mistaken — it's a supermarket-ready take on one of the brand's most in-demand scoop-shop specials. Each tub is a flavour bomb of creamy peanut butter gelato swirled with house-made peanut praline and rich peanut fudge. Meanwhile, Super Flan brings one of the brand's biggest fan faves to the masses: a creamy vanilla custard gelato rippled with Messina's in-house dulce de leche, made the proper Argentinian way. Each flavour comes in a 475ml pint, and joins the five Messina tub flavours lining Woolies shelves — namely, Pistachio Praline, Tiramisu, Dulce de Leche, Hazelnut Praline and Dulce de Leche, and Robert Brownie Jr. Since its October 2024 launch, the tub line has become one of the supermarket's best-selling frozen dessert lines, with over 500,000 pints already having flown off the shelves. While you're likely more concerned with what's going on inside the tub, the artwork on the front is worth a second look. The colourful characters that adorn each tub have been designed by Bondi-born, New York-based artist Jeremyville, who was also responsible for the vibrant murals in Messina's original Darlinghurst store. "Gelato Messina has always been about quality, creativity, and making people happy, and pushing the boundaries of flavour and quality," says Gelato Messina founder, Nick Palumbo. "Expanding into Woolworths has allowed us to share our passion with more Australians, while staying true to our roots." Messina's new P.B. Peanut Butter Fudge & Praline and Super Flan flavours are available now and exclusively at Woolworths, in the freezer aisle or online. For more info, head to the Messina website.
Chances are, you're well overdue for a relaxed group getaway with your besties, and it just so happens that Australia's chock full of world-class vacation spots to suit all types. And for that group escape, Byron Bay is delivering the goods, as always. In northern NSW, you'll find a healthy dose of sun, sea and subtropical rainforest awaiting your arrival. Plus, an array of waterfront villas and roomy coastal retreats ideal for a beach vacay with your besties. We've done the hard work and rounded up the best group Airbnbs you can book in Byron Bay. Pack those bags and get set for a hard-earned beach adventure. Recommended Reads: The Best Places to Go Glamping in NSW The Best Tiny Houses You Can Book Around NSW The Best Hotels in Sydney The Best Places to Stay in the Blue Mountains Elevation, Byron Bay Luxe vacation vibes abound at this newly renovated architectural stunner, complete with heated pool and spa, and enormous sun-drenched deck. From $1321 a night, sleeps eight. Paradiso Property, Byron Bay Sporting soothing whites and natural finishes, this group retreat feels instantly relaxing. There's loads of space indoors and out, plus a brand-new pool. From $750 a night, sleeps eight. Belongil on the Beach, Byron Bay Swap city life for a weekend of blissful Byron beachfront. This sprawling house boasts cheery nautical styling and a backyard right on the water's edge. From $700 a night, sleeps six. Havana Lodge, Byron Bay With its contemporary boho styling, nature-filled surrounds and dreamy meditation loft, this eclectic retreat is the ultimate antidote to fast-paced city living. From $449 a night, sleeps four. Byron Superluxe, Byron Bay Boasting loads of outdoor living, a pool and space to sleep 14, this supersized retreat is group holiday perfection. And the beach is just metres away. From $1220 a night, sleeps 14. Beaumonts House, Byron Bay Perched overlooking the sand, this spacious beach house is a true surfer's dream. Expect incredible views and plenty of room to move. From $799 a night, sleeps ten. Eternity Beach House, Byron Bay A leafy oasis just moments from Belongil Beach, this relaxed holiday retreat comes complete with luxury furnishings and state-of-the-art features. From $990 a night, sleeps six. Ayana at the Pass, Byron Bay With its tropical setting and designer interiors, this modern abode is a study in holiday luxury. Enjoy a heated spa, outdoor shower and dedicated yoga deck. From $1380 a night, sleeps eight. Old 55, Byron Bay This beautifully restored Wategos Beach treehouse makes for an inviting beach escape, with roomy open-plan living and lots of outdoor space. From $949 a night, sleeps 11. Memories at Wategos, Byron Bay Just a short six-minute walk from Wategos Beach, this fabulous modern abode is perfect for a day in the sand or lounging by its top-tier pool with your best friends. From $1190 at night, sleeps eight. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy. Images: courtesy of Airbnb.
The ABC has published a stunning report, based on months of investigations, alleging a toxic culture of sexual abuse, misogyny and drug use among staff and patrons at the major Australian hospitality group Merivale. The report alleges that following interviews with dozens of former staff at the juggernaut hospitality company, a picture emerged of unsafe work environments for women, drug use by both staff and patrons that was not only tolerated but encouraged, and failures of management that downplayed or dismissed allegations of sexual abuse and rape by staff. The ABC report also cited complaints from two female patrons — Jess Helinski and her unidentified friend — who claim they were mistaken for sex workers at Ivy nightclub and directed by staff to a VIP area to socialise with a group of men. When Helinski confirmed she and her friend were not sex workers, one of the male patrons allegedly told them: "You girls need to leave. I'm sorry, it's not safe for you in this situation." While an internal Merivale investigation found that CCTV footage failed to provide clear evidence of "untoward or inappropriate behaviour" by either staff or the male patrons, the matter is nonetheless being investigated by NSW police. [caption id="attachment_834655" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jordan K Munns[/caption] Among the most shocking allegations from former Merivale staff is an account from a woman working at the Coogee Pavilion, who told the ABC that she was raped by a male colleague at his home in 2018. Despite informing her manager and Merivale HR about the assault, the woman, who requested her identity remain anonymous, continued to be rostered to work alongside her alleged rapist, as at the time she was unable to provide a police report. Of her experience, the former staff member told the ABC: "It's not okay to think there could be people working there now that are going through the same thing, and I doubt HR's changed their processes, and it'll keep happening until someone says you need to change." Another former Merivale employee, also speaking to the ABC anonymously, shared her experience of being inappropriately touched by male patrons while working a night shift at cocktail bar Hemmesphere in the Sydney CBD in 2021. She believes was tolerated because young female staff were encouraged to flirt with customers. Drug use was also common at Hemmesphere, according to the same former staff member. "The managers were fully aware of whatever kind of drugs were being done in the bathrooms. The managers themselves would be doing this in the bathrooms and they would be giving it to staff," she told the ABC. When approached for comment by the ABC, Merivale issued a statement saying: "We have no record of the incidents that have been described. We are therefore unable to respond to what we consider to be unfair questions." This latest report follows in the wake of a similar exposé by The Sydney Morning Herald and Good Food, published on Wednesday, August 21, which uncovered a culture of sexual abuse, normalised misogyny and failures of management at Swillhouse Group, who operate top Sydney venues including Restaurant Hubert and The Caterpillar Club. The fallout from that report resulted in Swillhouse cancelling its much-anticipated music and food festival Swillfest. Gourmet Traveller also removed Restaurant Hubert from the digital edition of their prestigious annual restaurant guide and Swillhouse Group CEO Anton Forte was forced to step down from his position on the board of the Australian Restaurant and Cafe Association. One day after the Swillhouse report was published, Swillhouse Group issued an apology, saying: "While we cannot right the wrongs of the past, we acknowledge them and apologise for any hurt caused. We assure our people, our customers, our friends and our patrons that we currently have best practice policies and processes in place to ensure our people work in the safest possible environment today and tomorrow." A follow-up article published by The Herald and Good Food on Thursday, August 22, written by journalist Dani Valent, alleged systemic failures across Australia's hospitality sector, representing "endemic" levels of widespread gender-based violence and sexual danger in the workplace. If you need to speak to someone about an experience you have had or are seeking information, please contact 1800Respect on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800respect.org.au.
It's hard to know what to expect from a place called Dirty Red. Thankfully, the words 'coffee' and 'brunch' emblazoned on the venue's baby blue terrace exterior provide some clues. Named after Glebe's Dirty Reds football club (one of the foundation clubs for the Australian Rugby League in 1908), this cheerful cafe has quickly established itself as a go-to for Glebe locals since opening in mid 2018. With ample seating, including a bright and airy interior and a leafy courtyard, Dirty Red is the type of place you'll want to stay all day. And, in fact, you almost can now as the venue transforms into a cosy wine bar on Friday and Saturday nights, too. Here, plates and snacks like black garlic dip and burrata with peach, romesco and basil are served alongside a tight selection of mostly Aussie wines, Young Henrys brews and spritzes. Now, back to the main affair: brunch. The extensive, produce-packed menu turns cafe classics up a notch — think eggs and soldiers served with halloumi fries or eggs benedict served on jalapeño and cheddar cornbread. Plus, it has what CP reader @ally_brown88 calls "the best brekkie roll in Sydney". To pair with your meal is coffee by Mecca, including a nitro cold brew, plus fresh juices and shakes made using gelato from nearby Little Red Gelato. And if you're looking to level-up your brunch session, the cafe also serves booze during the day. This includes a stellar selection of cocktails, like the Brekkie Martini and the Dirty Red Mary. Plus, it does $10 espresso martinis between 2–4pm.
IMAX theatres are the cutting edge of the film industry, and no IMAX screen in the southern hemisphere can really hold a candle to IMAX Melbourne. It's kitted out with IMAX Laser 4K resolution, the only IMAX 1570 film projector in the country and the largest 1.43:1 cinema screen in the southern hemisphere. All that makes it the perfect home for Big Best IMAX Festival, which has set a Saturday, January 31 opening date for its 2026 return. The festival puts the biggest and best of Hollywood, both new and old, front and centre on the IMAX screen, with reruns of recent releases and remastered classics alike for eager theatre attendees — presented in Australia's only IMAX 70mm film prints and IMAX 4k Laser. This year, the program is led by Christopher Nolan classics like The Dark Knight trilogy, Interstellar and Oppenheimer. They're joined by award season frontrunners from 2025, including Ryan Coogler's Sinners and Paul Thomas Anderson's One Battle After Another — and blockbusters like F1: The Movie and Denis Villeneuve's award-winning Dune and Dune: Part Two ahead of the release of Dune: Messiah later this year. Other entries to the program include a Blade Runner and Blade Runner 2049 double feature, George Miller's Mad Max: Fury Road in 3D and Francis Ford Coppola's divisive Megalopolis. Several classic films will get the remastered IMAX treatment, including The Matrix, 2001: A Space Odyssey, Apocalypse Now, Se7en, Back to the Future, The Shining, Princess Mononoke and more. [caption id="attachment_1061503" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Director/Producer/Co-Writer Christopher Nolan on the set of INTERSTELLAR, from Paramount Pictures and Warner Brothers Pictures, in association with Legendary Pictures.[/caption] The Christopher Nolan entries are a special standout, as Nolan is known to create films with IMAX theatres in mind. His last release, Oppenheimer, has a film reel that's 18km long and weighs over 270kg, seeing it in IMAX 1570 is an extremely rare treat. His upcoming release, The Odyssey, will be the first film in history to be entirely filmed on IMAX cameras, the film reel is supposedly even longer than Oppenheimer, and IMAX Melbourne will be the only theatre in the southern hemisphere to screen the film on IMAX 70mm when it releases in July. Tickets to BBIFF 2026 go on sale from Wednesday, January 14 at 1pm for IMAX Big League members and 3pm for the general public. Visit the IMAX Melbourne website for more information. Images courtesy of Warner Brothers via Museums Victoria
Back in 2018, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced that it was adding a new award to the Oscars for Outstanding Achievement in Popular Film. If you can't remember which flicks have won it, there's a reason for that: the gong was scrapped quickly thanks to a heap of backlash. Across plenty of years since, the reason that that accolade wasn't needed has been proven. Black Panther, Joker, Everything Everywhere All At Once, Oppenheimer and Barbie have all featured heavily among the nominations, for instance — and everything except Barbenheimer so far has notched up wins. Both Christopher Nolan and Greta Gerwig's latest films are among the flicks with the most nominations in 2024, with 13 and eight apiece. They're also massive global box-office hits. So, going into this year's ceremony, you've likely seen at least those two contenders — but if you're wondering where to catch everything else, we've got the rundown. We've predicted who we think will emerge victorious, but the winners will be anointed on Monday, March 11, Down Under time. Right now in Australia, you can catch up with 31 movies that are hoping to score trophies. Some you need to hit the cinema to see. Others you can catch on the couch. With a few, you have the choice of heading out or staying home. From Barbenheimer (of course) and twists on Frankenstein to animated Spider-Man antics and devastating documentaries, here's where to direct your eyeballs. On the Big Screen: Anatomy of a Fall Nominations: Best Picture, Best Director (Justine Triet), Best Actress (Sandra Hüller), Best Original Screenplay, Best Film Editing Our thoughts: A calypso instrumental cover of 50 Cent's 'P.I.M.P.' isn't the only thing that Anatomy of a Fall's audience won't be able to dislodge from their heads after watching 2023's deserving Cannes Film Festival Palme d'Or-winner. A film from writer/director Justine Triet (Sibyl) that's thorny, knotty and defiantly unwilling to give any easy answers, this legal, psychological and emotional thriller about a woman (Sandra Hüller, The Zone of Interest) on trial for her husband's death is unshakeable in as many ways as someone can have doubts about another person: so, a myriad. Where to watch: In Australian cinemas. Read our full review. Four Daughters Nominations: Best Documentary Feature Our thoughts: There's a reason that Four Daughters can't include its entire namesake quartet, with just two appearing on-screen themselves and the other two played by actors. Unlike the younger Eya and Tayssir, the older Rahma and Ghofrane are no longer at home with their mother Olfa; instead, they left their family after becoming radicalised, with Islamic State in Libya their destination. So explores Tunisian filmmaker Kaouther Ben Hania (The Man Who Sold His Skin), in a documentary that's as gripping as it is heartbreaking — and uses recreations with a purpose unlike almost any other movie. Where to watch: In Australian cinemas. May December Nominations: Best Original Screenplay Our thoughts: May December takes inspiration from Mary Kay Letourneau, the teacher who had a sexual relationship with her sixth-grade student in the 90s. A simple recreation was never going to be Todd Haynes' (Dark Waters) approach, however. Starring Julianne Moore (Sharper) and Charles Melton (Riverdale) as its central couple decades after the scandal, plus Natalie Portman (Thor: Love and Thunder) as an actor about to feature in a movie about them, this a savvily piercing film that sees the impact on the situation's victim, the story its perpetrator has spun, and the ravenous way that people's lives are consumed by the media and public. Where to watch: In Australian cinemas. Read our full review. The Zone of Interest Nominations: Best Picture, Best Director (Jonathan Glazer), Best International Feature, Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Sound Our thoughts: Quotes and observations about evil being mundane, as well as the result when people look the other way, will never stop being relevant. A gripping, unsettling masterpiece, The Zone of Interest is a window into why. The first film by Sexy Beast, Birth and Under the Skin director Jonathan Glazer in more than a decade, the Holocaust-set and BAFTA-winning feature peers on as the unthinkable happens literally just over the fence, but a family goes about its ordinary life. If it seems abhorrent that anything can occur in the shadow of any concentration camp or site of World War II atrocities, that's part of the movie's point. Where to watch: In Australian cinemas. Read our full review. In Cinemas or at Home: The Holdovers Nominations: Best Picture, Best Actor (Paul Giamatti), Best Supporting Actress (Da'Vine Joy Randolph), Best Original Screenplay, Best Film Editing Our thoughts: Melancholy, cantankerousness, angst, hurt and snow all blanket Barton Academy in Alexander Payne's (Nebraska) The Holdovers. It's Christmas 1970 in New England in this thoughtful story that's given room to breathe and build, but festive cheer is in short supply among the students and staff that give the movie its moniker. Soon, there's just three folks left behind: Angus Tully (debutant Dominic Sessa), whose mother wants more time alone with his new stepdad; curmudgeonly professor Paul Hunham (Paul Giamatti, Billions); and grieving cook Mary Lamb (Da'Vine Joy Randolph, Only Murders in the Building). Where to watch: In Australian cinemas, and streaming via YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. Killers of the Flower Moon Nominations: Best Picture, Best Director (Martin Scorsese), Best Actress (Lily Gladstone), Best Supporting Actor (Robert De Niro), Best Cinematography, Best Costume Design, Best Film Editing, Best Original Score, Best Original Song ('Wahzhazhe (A Song For My People)', Scott George), Best Production Design Our thoughts: Death comes to Killers of the Flower Moon quickly. Death comes often, too. While Martin Scorsese will later briefly fill the film's frames with a fiery orange vision, death blazes through his 26th feature from the moment that the picture starts rolling. Adapted from journalist David Grann's 2017 non-fiction novel Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI, this is a masterpiece of a Lily Gladstone (Reservation Dogs)-, Leonardo DiCaprio (Don't Look Up)- and Robert De Niro (Amsterdam)-starring movie about a heartbreakingly horrible spate of deaths sparked by pure and unapologetic greed and persecution a century back. Where to watch: In Australian cinemas, and streaming via Apple TV+, YouTube Movies and Prime Video. Read our full review, and our interview with Martin Scorsese. Poor Things Nominations: Best Picture, Best Director (Yorgos Lanthimos), Best Actress (Emma Stone), Best Supporting Actor (Mark Ruffalo), Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Cinematography, Best Costume Design, Best Film Editing, Best Makeup and Hairstyling, Best Original Score, Best Production Design Our thoughts: Richly striking feats of cinema by Yorgos Lanthimos aren't scarce, and sublime performances by Emma Stone are hardly infrequent. The Favourite, their first collaboration, ticked both boxes. Screen takes on Mary Shelley's Frankenstein also couldn't be more constant. Combining the three in Poor Things results in a rarity, however: a jewel of a pastel-, jewel- and bodily fluid-toned feminist Frankenstein-esque fairy tale that's a stunning creation, as zapped to life with Lanthimos' inimitable flair, a mischievous air, Stone at her most extraordinary and empowerment blazing like a lightning bolt. Where to watch: In Australian cinemas, and streaming via Disney+, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. Via Streaming: American Fiction Nominations: Best Picture, Best Actor (Jeffrey Wright), Best Supporting Actor (Sterling K Brown), Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Original Score Our thoughts: Here's Thelonious 'Monk' Ellison's (Jeffrey Wright, Rustin) predicament when American Fiction begins: on the page, his talents aren't selling books. So, sick of hearing that his work isn't "Black enough", he gets a-typing, pumping out the kind of text that he vehemently hates — but 100-percent fits the stereotype of what the world keeps telling him that Black literature should be. It attracts interest, even more so when Monk adopts a cliched new persona to go with it. Wright is indeed exceptional in this savvy satire of authenticity, US race relations and class chasms, and earns his awards contention for his reactions alone. Where to watch: Streaming via Prime Video. Read our full review. American Symphony Nominations: Best Original Song ('It Never Went Away', Jon Batiste and Dan Wilson) Our thoughts: Jon Batiste has enjoyed a dream career so far, with the musician packing more into his 37 years than most people do in a lifetime. Matthew Heineman's (Retrograde) American Symphony isn't that tale, though. Instead, it spends a year with The Late Show with Stephen Colbert's former bandleader and Soul Oscar-winner — a year where he's nominated for 11 Grammys, and endeavours to compose the symphony that gives this intimate and touching documentary its name. Also shaping the 12 months: in his personal life, grappling with the return of his wife and bestselling author Suleika Jaouad's leukaemia. Where to watch: Streaming via Netflix. Barbie Nominations: Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor (Ryan Gosling), Best Supporting Actress (America Ferrera), Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Original Song ('I'm Just Ken', Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt; 'What Was I Made For?', Billie Eilish and Finneas O'Connell), Best Costume Design, Best Production Design Our thoughts: No one plays with a Barbie too hard when the Mattel product is fresh out of the box. The more that the toy is trotted through DreamHouses, though, the more that playing with the plastic fashion model becomes fantastical. Like globally beloved item, like live-action movie bearing its name. Barbie, the film, starts with glowing aesthetic perfection. It's almost instantly a pink-hued paradise for the eyes, and it's also cleverly funny. The longer that it continues, however, the harder and wilder that director Greta Gerwig (Little Women) goes, as does her lead-slash-producer Margot Robbie (Babylon) as Barbie and Ryan Gosling (The Gray Man) as Ken. Where to watch: Streaming via YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. Bobi Wine: The People's President Nominations: Best Documentary Feature Our thoughts: In western countries where democracy is entrenched, the system of government is too easily taken for granted. Bobi Wine: The People's President shows what the fight for a nation that's free, fair and gives its people a voice looks like, chronicling the plight of its titular figure. Bobi Wine was an Ugandan pop star, and a popular one. Then, in response to the autocratic rule of Yoweri Museveni since 1986, he turned to political activism. Filmmakers Moses Bwayo and Christopher Sharp, both first-time directors, also show how important and difficult his quest is — and there isn't a second of this documentary that isn't riveting. Where to watch: Streaming via Disney+. The Color Purple Nominations: Best Supporting Actress (Danielle Brooks) Our thoughts: On the page, stage and screen, The Color Purple's narrative has mostly remained the same, crushing woe, infuriating prejudice and rampant inequity included. Musicals don't have to be cheery, but how does so much brutality give rise to anything but mournful songs? The answer here: by leaning into the rural Georgia-set tale's embrace of hope, resilience and self-discovery. Ghanaian director Blitz Bazawule follows up co-helming Beyoncé's Black Is King by heroing empowerment and emancipation in his iteration of The Color Purple — and while it's easy to see the meaning behind its striving for a brighter outlook. Where to watch: Streaming via YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. The Creator Nominations: Best Sound, Best Visual Effects Our thoughts: Science fiction has never been afraid of unfurling its futuristic visions on the third rock from the sun, but the resulting films have rarely been as earthy as The Creator. Set from 2065 onwards after the fiery destruction of Los Angeles, this tale of humanity clashing with artificial intelligence is visibly awash with technology that doesn't currently exist — and yet the latest movie from Rogue One: A Star Wars Story director Gareth Edwards, which focuses on an undercover military operative Joshua (John David Washington, Amsterdam) tasked with saving the world, couldn't look or feel more authentic and grounded. Where to watch: Streaming via Disney+, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. El Conde Nominations: Best Cinematography Our thoughts: What if Augusto Pinochet didn't die in 2006? What if the Chilean general and dictator wasn't aged 91 at the time, either? What if his story started long before his official 1915 birthdate, in France prior to the French Revolution? What if he's been living for 250 years because he's a literal monster of the undead, draining and terrifying kind? Trust Chilean filmmaking great Pablo Larraín (Ema, Neruda, The Club, No, Post Mortem and Tony Manero) to ask these questions in El Conde, which translates as The Count and marks the latest exceptional effort in a career that just keeps serving up excellent movies. Where to watch: Streaming via Netflix. Read our full review. Elemental Nominations: Best Animated Feature Our thoughts: With Elemental, Pixar is in familiar territory — so much so that this film feels like something that was always destined to happen. Embracing the the studio's now-standard "what if robots, playthings, rats and the like had feelings?, it anthropomorphises fire, water, air and earth, and ponders these aspects of nature having emotions. The result from filmmaker Pete Sohn (The Good Dinosaur) is just-likeable and sweet-enough, despite vivid animation, plus the noblest of aims to survey the immigrant experience, opposites attracting, breaking down cultural stereotypes and borders, and complicated parent-child relationships. Where to watch: Streaming via Disney+, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. The Eternal Memory Nominations: Best Documentary Feature Our thoughts: After The Mole Agent, writer/director Maite Alberdi earns her second Oscar nomination in two successive films for a documentary that's just as layered — but she's no longer telling a caper-esque tale. This time, Augusto Góngora and Paulina Urrutia receive her attention. The former is an ex-former journalist and broadcaster. The latter is an actor and politician. Góngora's diagnosis with Alzheimer's disease sits at the centre of this haunting effort, which focuses on how its central couple endeavour to cope with his memory loss, the role that reflecting on the past has on our present and future, and how love endures. Where to watch: Streaming via DocPlay. Flamin' Hot Nominations: Best Original Song ('The Fire Inside', Diane Warren) Our thoughts: The feature directorial debut of Desperate Housewives actor Eva Longoria, Flamin' Hot is a product film, as Cheetos fans will instantly know. If you've ever wondered how the Frito-Lay-owned brand's spiciest variety came about in the 90s, this energetically made movie provides the answer while itself rolling out a crowd-pleasing formula. Eating the titular snack while you watch is optional, but expect the hankering to arise either way. This story belongs to Richard Montañez (Jesse Garcia, Ambulance) — and it's also an underdog tale, and an account of chasing the American dream, especially when it seems out of reach. Where to watch: Streaming via Disney+. Read our full review. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 Nominations: Best Visual Effects Our thoughts: Arriving to close out a standalone trilogy within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 zooms into the saga's fifth phase with a difference: it's still a quippy comedy, but it's as much a drama and a tragedy as well. Like most on-screen GotG storylines, it's also heist caper — and as plenty of caped-crusader flicks are, within the MCU or not, it's an origin story. The more that a James Gunn-written and -directed Guardians film gets cosy within the usual Marvel template, however, the more that his branch of Marvel's pop-culture behemoth embraces its own personality. Where to watch: Streaming via Disney+, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny Nominations: Best Original Score Our thoughts: Old hat, new whip. No, that isn't Dr Henry Walton 'Indiana' Jones' shopping list, but a description of Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny. While the fifth film about the eponymous archaeologist is as familiar as Indy films come, it's kept somewhat snapping by the returning Harrison Ford's (Shrinking) on-screen partnership with Phoebe Waller-Bridge (Fleabag). If you've seen one Indy outing in the past 42 years, you've seen the underlying mechanics of every other Indy outing. And yet, watching Ford flashing his crooked smile again, plus his bantering with Waller-Bridge, is almost enough to keep this new instalment from Ford v Ferrari filmmaker James Mangold whirring. Where to watch: Streaming via Disney+, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. Maestro Nominations: Best Picture, Best Actor (Bradley Cooper), Best Actress (Carey Mulligan), Best Cinematography, Best Original Screenplay, Best Makeup and Hairstyling, Best Sound Our thoughts: When a composer pens music, it's the tune that they want the world to enjoy, not the marks on a page scribbling it into existence. When a conductor oversees an orchestra, the performance echoing rather than their own with baton in hand and arms waving is their gift. In Maestro, Bradley Cooper (Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3) is seen as Leonard Bernstein in both modes. His portrayal is so richly textured that it's a career-best turn. But Cooper as this movie's helmer and co-writer wants Maestro's audience to revel in the end result — and if he wants love showered anyone's way first, it's towards Carey Mulligan (Saltburn) as Felicia Montealegre Bernstein. Where to watch: Netflix. Read our full review. Mission: Impossible — Dead Reckoning Part One Nominations: Best Sound, Best Visual Effects Our thoughts: Just as its lead actor's gleaming teeth do, Mission: Impossible — Dead Reckoning Part One, the seventh instalment in the TV-to-film spy series, thoroughly shines. Like Tom Cruise (Top Gun: Maverick) himself, it's committed to giving audiences what they want to see, but never merely exactly what they've already seen. This saga hasn't always chosen to accept that mission, but it's been having a better time of it since 2011's Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol, including since writer/director Christopher McQuarrie jumped behind the lens with 2015's Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation. Where to watch: Streaming via YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. Napoleon Nominations: Best Costume Design, Best Production Design, Best Visual Effects Our thoughts: When is a Ridley Scott (House of Gucci)-directed, Joaquin Phoenix (Beau Is Afraid)-starring trip to the past more than just a historical drama? Twice now, so whenever the filmmaker and actor team up to explore Europe centuries ago. Gladiator was the first; Napoleon follows — and where the Rome-set first was an action film as well, the second leans into comedy. This biopic of the eponymous French military star-turned-emperor can be funny. In the lead, Phoenix repeatedly boasts the line delivery, facial expressions and physical presence of someone actively courting laughs. When he declares "destiny has brought me this lamb chop!", all three coalesce. Where to watch: Streaming via Apple TV+, YouTube Movies and Prime Video. Read our full review. Nimona Nominations: Best Animated Feature Our thoughts: Bounding thoughtfully from the page to the screen — well, from pixels first, initially leaping from the web to print — Nimona goes all in on belonging. Ballister Boldheart (Riz Ahmed, Sound of Metal) wants to fit in desperately, and is willing to do whatever it takes to achieve it in this animated movie's medieval-yet-futuristic world, where there's nothing more important and acclaimed than being part of the Institute for Elite Knights. But when tragedy strikes, then prejudice sets in, he only has one ally. Nimona's namesake (Chloë Grace Moretz, The Peripheral) is a shapeshifter who offers to be his sidekick regardless of his innocence or guilt. Where to watch: Streaming via Netflix. Read our full review. Nyad Nominations: Best Actress (Annette Bening), Best Supporting Actress (Jodie Foster) Our thoughts: Most sports films about real-life exploits piece together the steps it took for a person or a team to achieve the ultimate in their field, or come as close as possible while trying their hardest. Nyad is no different, but it's also a deeply absorbing character study of two people: its namesake Diana Nyad (Annette Bening, Death on the Nile) and her best friend Bonnie Stoll (Jodie Foster, True Detective). The first is the long-distance swimmer whose feats the movie tracks, especially her quest to swim from Cuba to Florida in the 2010s. The second is the former professional racquetball player who became Nyad's coach when she set her sights on making history as a sexagenarian. Where to watch: Netflix. Read our full review. Oppenheimer Nominations: Best Picture, Best Director (Christopher Nolan), Best Actor (Cillian Murphy), Best Supporting Actor (Robert Downey Jr), Best Supporting Actress (Emily Blunt), Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Cinematography, Best Costume Design, Best Film Editing, Best Makeup and Hairstyling, Best Original Score, Best Production Design, Best Sound Our thoughts: Cast Cillian Murphy and a filmmaker falls in love. There's an arresting, haunting, seeps-under-your-skin soulfulness about the Irish actor, including when playing "the father of atomic bomb" in Christopher Nolan's (Tenet) epic biopic Oppenheimer. Flirting with the end of the world, or just one person's end, clearly suits Murphy. Here he is in a mind-blower as the destroyer of worlds — almost, perhaps actually — and so much of this can't-look-away three-hour stunner dwells in his expressive eyes, which see purpose, possibility, quantum mechanics' promise and, ultimately, the Manhattan Project's consequences. Where to watch: Streaming via YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. Past Lives Nominations: Best Picture, Best Original Screenplay Our thoughts: Call it fate, call it destiny, call it feeling like you were always meant to cross paths with someone: in Korean, that sensation is in-yeon. Partway through Past Lives, Nora (Greta Lee, Russian Doll) explains the concept to Arthur (John Magaro, The Many Saints of Newark) like she knows it deep in her bones, because both she and the audience are well-aware that she does. That's what writer/director Celine Song's sublime feature debut is about, in fact. The term also applies to her connection to childhood crush Hae Sung (Teo Yoo, Decision to Leave) in this sensitive, blisteringly honest and intimately complex masterpiece. Where to watch: Streaming via Prime Video. Read our full review, and our interview with Celine Song. Rustin Nominations: Best Actor (Colman Domingo) Our thoughts: After Selma, One Night in Miami and Judas and the Black Messiah arrives Rustin, the latest must-see movie about the minutiae of America's 60s-era civil rights movement. All four hail from Black filmmakers. All four tell vital stories. They each boast phenomenal performances, too, including from Colman Domingo (The Color Purple) as Rustin's eponymous figure. His turn as Bayard Rustin, who conceived and organised the event where Martin Luther King Jr gave his "I Have a Dream" speech, isn't merely powerful; it's a go-for-broke portrayal from a versatile talent at the top of his game while digging into the every inch of his part. Where to watch: Streaming via Netflix. Read our full review. Society of the Snow Nominations: Best International Feature, Best Makeup and Hairstyling Our thoughts: Society of the Snow isn't merely a disaster film detailing the specifics of Uruguayan Air Force Flight 571's failed journey, the immediate deaths and those that came afterwards, the lengthy wait to be found — including after authorities called the search off — and the crushing decisions made to get through. JA Bayona (Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom), who also helmed the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami-focused The Impossible, has made a weighty feature that reckons with the emotional, psychological and spiritual toll, and doesn't think of shying away from the most difficult aspects of this real-life situation, including cannibalism. Where to watch: Streaming via Netflix. Read our full review. Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse Nominations: Best Animated Feature Our thoughts: When 2018's Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse took pop culture's favourite web-slinger back to its animated roots, it made flesh-and-blood superhero flicks and shows, as well as the expensive special effects behind them, look positively trivial and cartoonish. The end result was a deservedly Academy Award-winning masterpiece — and its first sequel Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, which hails from directors Joaquim Dos Santos (The Legend of Korra), Kemp Powers (Soul) and Justin K Thompson (Into the Spider-Verse's production designer), plasters around the same sensation like a Spidey shooting its silk. Where to watch: Streaming via Binge, Prime Video, YouTube Movies and iTunes. Read our full review. To Kill a Tiger Nominations: Best Documentary Feature Our thoughts: A battle for justice sits at the heart of To Kill a Tiger, a documentary that is as powerful as it is heavy, and is also an essential piece of filmmaking. When his 13-year-old daughter becomes the victim of sexual assault, Ranjit is determined to bring the perpetrators to justice. Not that that's a straightforward feat anywhere, but it isn't the same quest in India as it is in western countries, as writer/director Nisha Pahuja (The World Before Her) examines. Ranjit is dedicated to the fight, even knowing how difficult it is — from the backlash that he receives across his village to the horrifying statistics regarding the frequency of rape in the country and the paltry conviction rate. Where to watch: Streaming via Netflix from Friday, March 8. 20 Days in Mariupol Nominations: Best Documentary Feature Our thoughts: Incompatible with life. No one ever hears those three devastating words — one of the most distressing phrases there is — in positive circumstances. Accordingly, when they're uttered by a doctor in 20 Days in Mariupol, they're deeply shattering. So is everything in this on-the-ground portrait of the first 20 days in the Ukrainian city as Russia began its invasion, as the bleak reality of living in a war zone is documented. Directed by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Mstyslav Chernov, that this film even exists is an achievement. What it shows — what it immerses viewers in, from shelled hospitals and basements-turned-bomb shelters to families torn apart and mass graves — can never be forgotten. Where to watch: Streaming via DocPlay. The 2024 Oscars will be announced on Monday, March 11, Australian time. For further details, head to the awards' website. Wondering who'll win? Check out our predictions.
It's Hollywood's night of nights for television, it usually takes place in September and it has already announced its 2023 nominees. This year's Emmys look set to delay anointing a new round of winners, however, with word circling that the awards ceremony will be postponed due to the current film and TV industry strikes. Both Variety and The Hollywood Reporter are reporting that the 2023 Emmy Awards will ditch its scheduled date: the night of Monday, September 18 in the US, which is Tuesday, September 19. If the strikes are still ongoing, actors and writers won't be attending the ceremony — not the red carpet, nor the awards themselves — meaning that the bulk of the televised accolades wouldn't be able to be accepted by their recipients. Also, the shindig will look mighty empty. As per Variety, vendors have been told that the event will be postponed, with a new date yet to be confirmed. The Hollywood Reporter also advises that the rescheduled awards won't take place in September — and, in a best-case scenario, will be held off until the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers comes to an agreement with SAG-AFTRA and the Writers Guild of America. TV lovers will have to wait a little longer, then, to find out which shows have been dubbed the past year's best by the voters in the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences — and how much they love HBO. The answer already: a whole heap. In 2023, the folks who decide which shows will score some Emmys love awarded a massive 74 nominations to three HBO series: Succession, The Last of Us and The White Lotus. TV's best case of family feud earned 27 nods, including for almost every actor who appeared in its fourth and final season in leading, supporting and guest roles. In the Best Actor category alone, Brian Cox, Jeremy Strong and Kieran Culkin are going head to head. The most spectacular game-to-screen adaptation yet nabbed 24, while vacation chaos brought about 23 nominations. The other show that racked up a comparable tally? Apple TV+'s Ted Lasso with 21 nods. Similarly in the running: everything from Andor, Better Call Saul, House of the Dragon and Yellowjackets (all in the drama fields) to Abbott Elementary, Barry, The Bear, Only Murders in the Building and Wednesday (the comedy categories), plus the likes of Beef, Daisy Jones & the Six and Fleishman Is in Trouble (limited series) as well. Hollywood talents are fighting against diminishing residual payments for performers, and to establish firm rules about the future use of artificial intelligence in the industry, among other improvements to working conditions. When they took action in mid-July, SAG-AFTRA's members joined their counterparts in the Writers Guild of America, who've been striking since May. The current strikes are affecting film releases, too, with Australian crime-thriller Force of Nature: The Dry 2 already ditching its planned August date with cinemas given that star Eric Bana a member of the striking SAG-AFTRA. It's also been rumoured that big blockbusters such as Dune: Part Two, Aquaman and The Lost Kingdom and The Colour Purple might also delay their releases, including until 2024; however, none have officially shifted their dates as yet. The 75th Emmy Awards are currently scheduled to take place on Tuesday, September 19, Australian time, but may be postponed — we'll update you if/when a new date is confirmed. Check out the list of 2023 nominations, and keep an eye on the Emmys' website for further details in the interim. Via Variety / The Hollywood Reporter.
After seven long years (plus a few additional nail-biting weeks of last-minute delays), the much-anticipated City and Southwest extension of the Sydney Metro has finally opened to the public. The new driverless train system is a cutting-edge wonder, connecting Sydenham with Chatswood in just 22 minutes. At peak hours, trains arrive at each station on this 15.5-kilometre stretch every four minutes. But beyond its game-changing speed, the new Metro line is remarkable for the sheer creativity on display at each station. Every stop has a unique design inspired by its location, both honouring the area's past and heralding a brighter future in a more connected city. Since every station has its own singular identity, we visited all eight and ranked them on the calibre of their design, the convenience offered by their amenities and the ways in which they are revitalising their respective corners of Sydney. Some wow with architectural feats, others deliver exciting culinary adventures and a few are redefining the neighbourhoods they now serve. Here's our definitive ranking of the City and Southwest Line Metro stations. Recommended reads: The Best Beaches in Sydney The Best Ocean Pools in Sydney The Best Walks in and Around Sydney The Best Bike Rides in Sydney 8: SYDENHAM The southern end of the line is one of two overground stations on this portion of the Metro (the other being the already-operational Chatswood, north of the harbour). As such, no new station was constructed for Sydenham. Instead, major upgrades were made to the existing infrastructure, adding two new platforms and a new overpass to allow passengers to alight to other overground services. Unlike other stops on the line, the lack of major architectural works has robbed Sydenham of the creative flexes seen at its sister stations. The only hospitality offering to speak of is a single kiosk selling sandwiches, coffee and sweet treats by the main entrance, as well as a handful of vending machines — fine for a local in need of a quick caffeine fix or sugar hit on the morning commute, but certainly not worthy of a journey from elsewhere in the city. 7: CROWS NEST Of the newly constructed stations, Crows Nest has one of the least ambitious designs with a subtly industrial vibe featuring exposed brickwork and rusted perforated panelling. Both the station's exits feature eye-catching artworks by ceramicist Esther Stewart, inspired by the historic facades of heritage-listed buildings in the area, interpreted as vibrant tile collages. While there are currently a handful of local cafes in the vicinity of the station, a major development around the Metro station, Hume Place, is nearing the end of construction and is due to open at the end of spring, 2024. This will include a retail and hospitality precinct as well as affordable housing, so expect to hear about some exciting Crows Nest openings in the coming months. 6: GADIGAL The first thing that strikes you as you disembark at Gadigal is the organic quality of the architecture. The pale stone walls ripple like water, while exposed wooden seating runs the full length of the platform like a freshly felled tree, floating in this vertical lake. Fluidity is carried through in even subtler details, like the gently scooping brass inlays in the cream terrazzo tiles that help guide passengers as they board, and the subtle arch of the earthy bronze ceilings that run the length of the rabbit warren-esque tunnels between platforms. As you ascend the escalators, a vast mosaic artwork — The Underneath, by Callum Morton — dominates the view. Unlike the placid monochrome of the rest of the station, this shock of cartoonish colour offers a visual jolt, preparing travellers for the breakneck pace of the CBD that awaits them. While there is no hospitality offering at this station, its handy location on the edge of Hyde Park and its accomplished design make it a gem in its own right. [caption id="attachment_970829" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Maxim Boon[/caption] 5: CENTRAL Plenty of changes have already been made to Australia's busiest train terminal in recent memory, most notably the opening of the vast, 140-metre-long North-South Concourse beneath the existing overland platforms and the impressive new entrance offering easier access to the station from the L3 light rail platforms last May. The new Metro platforms, located beneath the North-South Concourse, have the same sculpted sandstone chevron motif that can be found throughout the newer areas of Central, seamlessly blending these additions to the existing infrastructure. The great depth of the Metro line at this point in the city makes for a dramatic descent on the escalators, which plunge a vertigo-inducing 25-metres. Three new hospitality areas, accessible from the North-South Concourse, are yet to be opened, but travellers can already take advantage of the dining options on the Grand Concourse and along Eddy Avenue. 4: WATERLOO Art plays a pivotal role in the Waterloo terminal's success, making it unquestionably one of the most beautiful stations not just on the new Metro line but anywhere in Australia. A triptych of works created by Nicole Monks, championing the local Wallangang culture — past, present and future — connects the main station concourse to its pavilion-like entrance. The most striking work is a towering portrait of a young Aboriginal dancer painted with traditional ochre, captured in perforated aluminium. A sculptural work titled Community Footprints runs up the wall next to the escalators, featuring hundreds of gold and silver foot prints marking out a dance of graceful, flowing forms. By the main entrance, a lenticular sculpture titled Handwriting by Elders, offers the words "Gadigal" and "Nura", meaning country. In addition to these moving pieces, there are also exhibits of post-colonial artefacts found during the site's excavation, revealing yet another layer of historical depth to this small inner-city suburb. The dining riches of South Everleigh and Surry Hills are just a short distance from Waterloo Station, but a soon-to-be-completed dining and retail precinct just behind the station will put this area on the map as a new culinary powerhouse in the city's Inner South. [caption id="attachment_970486" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Maxim Boon[/caption] 3: MARTIN PLACE To wander the so-called Metro "superhub" of Martin Place is to experience something of what it must have been like for ancient travellers to first behold the Great Pyramids of Giza. Ok, that's perhaps overselling it, but this cavernous complex beneath the centre of the city is truly an engineering feat of epic proportions. Buried 25 meters beneath the CBD's streets, the awe-worthy multi-level atrium features 3000 square meters of retail and hospitality space. None of this flush of new venues has opened yet, but once they do, expect to see this station rising to the top of these rankings. In the meantime, passengers can enjoy some of the Metro's most impressive public artworks, including Muru Giligu — a series of dreamy light and music installations brightening one of the station's exitways. 2: BARANGAROO Many of the new stations on the City and Southwest Line are establishing precincts, but few will be able to compete with the sheer natural splendour of the tranquil waterfront gardens at Barangaroo. The station itself is no slouch either. The walls are clad with the same roughly hewn sandstone that makes up the majority of the coastal outcrops around Sydney harbour, adorned with bronze sculptures of leafy wreaths, underlining the connection to the natural world. Outside, not only do the new green spaces finally connect the hospitality hotspots around Crown Towers and Cockle Bay with Barangaroo Reserve, but travellers can also discover a monument to a unique piece of Sydney history — the well-preserved 200-year-old remains of a vessel that was unearthed in November 2018 during the station's construction. It's believed to be the oldest colonial-era Australian-built craft to ever be fully excavated, recorded and raised. [caption id="attachment_970482" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Trent van der Jagt[/caption] 1: VICTORIA CROSS While this station may not have the immediate visual impact of some of its sister stations, its slick, futuristic design still packs a wallop. Victoria Cross is the first station on the line to have a fully functioning hospitality precinct up and running, offering an exciting glimpse of what Sydneysiders can look forward to as more of these dining destinations come online. From casual bites at Marrickville Porkroll to sit-down feeds at Mary's Burgers, there's plenty to satisfy travellers without ever leaving the station's footprint. Plus, with superb venues like the new Walker Street Precinct, RAFI and Bar Lettera just a stone's throw away, Victoria Cross is further cementing North Sydney as one of the most ascendant culinary hotspots in Sydney right now.
Hidden underground bars, award-winning restaurants, dozens of standout laneway cafes and record stores — Adelaide has more than just delicious wine (although it has a lot of that, too). There are so many places to explore and experiences to be had in this history-rich city, you may struggle to fit it all into one weekend — as they say: so little time, so much to eat. But, we're here to help. We've created this comprehensive guide to the SA capital so you can spend more time drinking cocktails, and less time wandering backstreets. Adelaide is also so much more than just the CBD, too, so if you have the time, immerse yourself in the Fleurieu Peninsula, Clare Valley and the Limestone Coast. There's plenty of wine to be tasted and glamping to be done. From pristine beaches and bountiful wine regions to alpine hideaways and bustling country towns, Australia has a wealth of places to explore at any time of year. We've partnered with Tourism Australia to help you plan your road trips, weekend detours and summer getaways so that when you're ready to hit the road you can Holiday Here This Year. Under current COVID-19 restrictions in Australia, there are some restrictions on where you can go on a holiday. But, you can start dreaming. Bookmark this for when you can explore once again. [caption id="attachment_679115" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Africola by Andre Castellucci[/caption] EAT Once you've jumped off the plane, your first stop should be Exchange Specialty Coffee. Serving up some of the best coffee in the country, the acclaimed cafe is tucked away behind Rundle Street. Stop here for a brew — a Melbourne-roasted Brazilian with cherry notes, perhaps — and the cafe's take on a reuben sandwich, and you'll be fuelled and ready to tackle the rest of the city. Well, fuelled and prepared to eat more. While you're on the east side of town — for out-of-towners, that's down near Rundle Street and the aptly named East Terrace — stop by the French-inflected all-day eatery Hey Jupiter for escargots and baked camembert, or to the vibrant Kutchi Deli Parwana, which is located literally next door on Ebenezer Place. The latter serves up Afghani-style street food, such as toasties made with flatbread and stuffed with hummus and lamb kofta, and its signature eggplant curry. If the light begins to fade and you still find yourself east, head to Adelaide's two most-lauded restaurants: Africola and Orana. Africola, helmed by Duncan Welgemoed, is serving up North African dishes out of its woodfired oven, including peri peri chicken with chakalaka relish, pork neck and fried cauliflower. And, whatever you do, don't forget to order a round of the tea sandwiches made with hot chicken dripping. A stone's throw away is Restaurant Orana run by acclaimed chef-owner Jock Zonfrillo (yes, the one from MasterChef). Orana has a degustation-only menu, spattered with native ingredients, alongside an impeccable wine list and service — and it's well worth the cash. On the opposite side of the city, near West Terrace, restaurants are a touch more casual, more snack-driven, and where you want to head before or after drinks. Behind a neon-lit entrance on Leigh Street, you'll find mod-Asian fare cooked over fire at Shōbōsho — and its spin-off, the eight-seater yakitori bar Dr Shō. Hop one street over to Peel Street and enjoy Southeast Asian street food and natural wine at Gondola Gondola, woodfired burgers, steaks and ribs at the upstairs Bread and Bone and refined yet simple fare made from quality local ingredients at Peel St. Around the corner, Sunny's Pizza — run by a group of hospitality long-timers — does what it says on the packet: pizza. It serves them topped with traditional and untraditional ingredients — San Marzano tomatoes, pork fennel sausage, lamb and tahini — and alongside creative cocktails. It also has a disco ball, so you can stay and dance till the wee hours. [caption id="attachment_679116" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Pink Moon Saloon[/caption] DRINK Adelaide's west end doesn't just have fancy food, either, the number of bars hidden down laneways, in basements and up hard-to-find staircases rivals even Melbourne's busiest inner city streets. We suggest you start at Pink Moon Saloon, a narrow A-frame bar, which has picked up a neat collection of gongs for its drinks and design. It even has a kitchen in the back, if you want to linger over brisket or grilled haloumi. Underground — and through a hidden door — is art deco bar Maybe Mae. Located in a passage between Peel and Leigh Streets, the bar is lined with green leather banquettes and serves up seasonal cocktails alongside the tastiest complimentary bar snack in the city: curry powder-fried Nutri Grain and peanuts (trust us, it tastes better than it sounds). West end stalwarts Udaberri and Clever Little Tailor mix fun and refined cocktails with finesse, and nearby Leigh Street Wine Room is a chic new wine bar pumping out minimal intervention drops and next-level snacks. Also worth visiting on the western side is sailor-themed Hains & Co, which is lined with plenty of boating paraphernalia — and lots of rum — and Sparkke at the Whitmore, a female-run pub and brewery with a rooftop bar. [caption id="attachment_679112" align="alignnone" width="1920"] NOLA[/caption] Wander back east and Adelaide's seemingly never-ending collection of quality small bars continues. Overlooking Ebenezer Place is the multi-level Mr Goodbar. Its cocktails are strong and its vibe is inspired by the Deep South. On the opposite side of Rundle Street (well, underneath it) you'll encounter Hellbound. Fortunately, when you walk down its steps you won't enter purgatory — you'll encounter plenty of great wine curated by industry expert Mark Reginato. When you're ready to resurface, make a beeline for NOLA, a New Orleans-inspired jazz, whiskey and craft beer bar, speckled with banquettes, touches of turquoise and neon. A few metres away is Mother Vine, serving up an impressive selection of local and international wines, tapas and cheeses. It's also opposite Adelaide CBD's best bottle shop (more on that below). [caption id="attachment_679111" align="alignnone" width="1920"] 2KW by Jonathan Van de Knapp[/caption] DO 2KW is a must-visit for all Adelaide first- (second- or third-) timers. Located on the eighth storey of a historic building, it has some of the best views across the city. Its drinks and food menu are also hard to pass up — and give you more time to soak up the view. Plan in a trip to the CBD's best bottle shop, too. If we're to get technical, East End Cellars has a rep as one of the country's best bottle shops — with an impressive range of local, hard-to-find wines, spirits and craft brews. It often hosts free tastings, too, so keep on eye on the website while you're there. [caption id="attachment_679110" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Smelly Cheese Shop[/caption] The historic Adelaide Central Markets, established in 1869, is a rite of passage for all visitors to Adelaide. Filled with hawking greengrocers, fishmongers and bratwurst-vendors, the markets are often packed — especially on weekends. Make your way through the crowd to much-loved The Smelly Cheese Shop (yes, they'll let you taste some) and Le Souk for fresh dates and racks upon racks of spices. If you need a break from eating and drinking, luckily Adelaide has another lesser-known gift hidden up its sleeve — its impressive collection of record stores. Rerun Record & Photography, hidden inside Adelaide's Market Bazaar, stocks a massive collection of retro records, alongside historic Adelaide photos and vintage cameras. Also, Streetlight Adelaide, Wolfies Records and Porthole Records are worth checking out. [caption id="attachment_679109" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Majestic Minima Hotel[/caption] SLEEP When you've finished eating, drinking and packing your bags full of vinyls, you'll want to rest your weary head — and prepare to do it all again tomorrow. If you've got the cash, splash out on the most elegant option, The Mayfair Hotel. The heritage-listed building is home to 170 luxe suites, a gym and its own rooftop bar. Slightly more affordable, but equally central, is the Majestic Rooftop Hotel and the Adina Apartment Hotel Adelaide Treasury — both located in walking distance of all the aforementioned hot spots. If you're willing to travel a touch out of the city, you can snag an eclectic art-filled room at North Adelaide's Majestic Minima Hotel for around $100 a night. Whether you're planning to travel for a couple of nights or a couple of weeks, Holiday Here This Year and you'll be supporting Australian businesses while you explore the best of our country's diverse landscapes and attractions. Top image: Pink Moon Saloon.
Getting excited about 2025's Melt Festival has been easy for a few months now. First, the Brisbane LGBTQIA+ event announced that Broadway icon Bernadette Peters was making the River City her only Australian stop just for the fest. Then, it also confirmed that the River Pride Parade would float its boats for another year. After that came news of 1000 Voices, uniting singers from queer and pride choirs en masse. Need more? Melt is still over four months away, but it just unveiled its initial big program drop. Reuben Kaye, the Miss First Nation drag contest, a queer wrestle party, Femme Follies Burlesque: they're all on the lineup so far as well. Whether you're a Brisbanite or keen to hit the Sunshine State for the spring queer fling, pop Wednesday, October 22–Sunday, November 9 in your diary and get ready to be spoilt for choice. [caption id="attachment_1007544" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Claudio Raschella[/caption] Kaye is heading to the fest to give his cabaret show enGORGEd, which'll feature Camerata — Queensland's Chamber Orchestra, its Sunshine State premiere. Shining the spotlight on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander drag queens, Miss First Nation is also making a date with Brisbane for the first time, bringing the finale to the city after putting on state heats around the nation in the lead-up. The Tivoli is your go-to for Melt's high-energy queer wrestle-party, while Femme Follies Burlesque will bring its sapphic moves to The Wickham. Or, you can catch The Lucky Country, a new musical about what it means to be Australian — and the myths and contradictions that come with it — in 2025. Malacañang Made Us and Whitefella Yella Tree are also treading the boards, the first about the Filipino Australian experience and the second telling a love story. [caption id="attachment_1007548" align="alignnone" width="1920"] David Kelly[/caption] There's also a queer boat party on floating venue Oasis; the return of Queer PowerPoint; and a drag Scream Queen shindig with Naomi Smalls and Yvie Oddly, plus Drag Race UK's Kyran Thrax. Or, check out a heap of instruments and performers suspended by rope to pay tribute to Brisbane's punk history, Gerwyn Davies' series of portraits in collaboration with Open Doors Youth Service's trans and gender-diverse young people, and Instagram imagery given a new life in Micah Rustichelli's Demon Rhythm. Melt has more program news on the way, because this fringe-style celebration of queer arts and culture goes huge as it fills Brisbane Powerhouse and spreads further across the city. In 2024, more than 120 events popped up in 70-plus venues across southeast Queensland, complete with a Wicked-themed Halloween ball, a pool party and plenty more. [caption id="attachment_1007543" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Anna Hickey[/caption] [caption id="attachment_1007545" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Markus Ravik[/caption] [caption id="attachment_1007547" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Gregory Lorenzutti[/caption] Melt Festival 2025 runs from Wednesday, October 22–Sunday, November 9. Head to the festival website for more details.
Popular with students, artists and the battered men who've been frequenting it for the past forty years, The Courthouse Hotel — better known as The Courty — is a beloved staple of Newtown's drinking spots. It is grungy, relaxed and unpretentious with one of Sydney's finest beer gardens. Inside The Courthouse Hotel, you'll find pool tables, a collection of pinball machines and a couple of vinyl couches with the stuffing falling out of them. The interior of the pub is exactly what you'd expect: dark wood on scruffy walls, well-trodden carpet and a gallery of old Sydney Swans posters. A pair of arty student types with silly beards sit at the bar alongside a bloke in a Bonds singlet, nursing a schooner, sporting an entirely un-silly beard. During AFL season expect not to be able to hold a conversation anywhere near the football-scarfed fans surrounding the televisions. The bistro menu is exactly what you would expect: carb-heavy favourites like schnitties, wedges and nachos to soak up the beer. But the real drawcard at The Courthouse is the beer garden. From the wooden veranda, you gaze down onto a maze of long wooden benches surrounded by frangipani trees and tropical plants which, bafflingly, still manage to grow amongst the spilled beer and cigarette butts. The courtyard is what really makes The Courthouse, packed wall to wall even in the middle of winter. Appears in: The Best Pubs in Sydney
Formerly a craft beer bar with a dedication to the Sunday roast, The Taphouse in Darlinghurst was reborn in 2023 under the guidance of Applejack Hospitality (RAFI, Forrester's, The Butler). The new iteration of the multi-storey pub is breezier, specialising in approachable drinks and nostalgic eats indebted to suburban Chinese restaurants. After resurrecting Forrester's a few years back, the team turned its attention to this historic corner pub, maintaining the heart of the original while giving its fit-out and menus a makeover. The result is a classic ground-floor watering hole and a breezy rooftop bar, all with cracking Cantonese eats. The menu has been curated by Applejack's Director of Culinary Patrick Friesen, (ex-Queen Chow, Ms.G's) and The Taphouse's new Head Chef Sam Ng, who comes to the pub after previously working across acclaimed Hong Kong venues Ho Lee Fook, Praya and Stanley. The resulting menu is a hearty and crowd-pleasing affair. Entrees include prawn wontons, barbecue pork buns, salt and pepper oyster mushrooms, pork spare ribs and spring rolls with a plum sauce. Further down the menu, you'll stumble upon steam scallops, wok-fried mud crab, sweet and south pork, and egg noodles topped with braised wagyu beef rib. Craft beer enthusiasts will be pleased that despite its new owners, The Taphouse still has a hefty roster of brews on offer, including Mountain Culture Status Quo, Grifter Serpents Kiss and Hawke's Patio Ale. There's also long necks of Tsingtao, adding to the playfulness of the venue and providing the perfect counterpoint to the menu of Cantonese favourites. Applejack's love affair with wine has really shone through its North Sydney restaurant RAFI, and this passion for vino continues at The Taphouse. Alongside your classic chardonnay and shiraz, you'll find Applejack's own Luce Del Sole pinot grigio available on tap, a few skin-contact drops, and Unico Zelo's Fresh AF Nero Bled, served chilled. If you need even more of an excuse to head in, there are some sizable weekly specials on offer. Visit during lunch hours Monday–Friday and you'll find a range of hefty dishes available for just $18. This includes sweet and sour pork, wagyu beef and broccolini, and wok-fried market vegetables with tofu. Every Monday, you can enjoy a pork chop curry dinner with steamed rice for $12; on Sundays, frozen cocktails and bloody marys are on offer for $15; and $7.50 beers and wines are available during one of the city's longest happy hours, 12–6pm Monday–Friday. Images: Steven Woodburn
Dan Hong, one of Sydney's renowned chefs, restaurateurs and television hosts, opens the doors to his no-frills and fuss-free Chinese diner, Good Luck Eating House, on Wednesday, November 12. Under the Merivale umbrella, the former Good Luck Restaurant Lounge has evolved into this latest iteration, serving casual, inviting food infused with Hong's signature flair. Hong is synonymous with contemporary, high-energy dining across restaurants such as Mr Wong, The Press, Sushi e and Establishment Bar. He says that Good Luck Eating House "is the casual and more approachable little sibling of Mr Wong." Think generous plates of stir-fries, noodles and dumplings, perfect for rowdy evenings out with a group, sitting alongside Aussie-Chinese classics like salt and pepper calamari and sweet and sour pork. "The inspiration is rustic regional Chinese fare, bringing it back to basics. It's the kind of place where anyone can drop in for a quick bowl of noodles or a plate of dumplings, but also come down for a big feast with friends. The menu includes traditional cold appetisers, potsticker dumplings, chilli oil wontons, scallion pancakes, cumin lamb skewers, simple noodle dishes and stir-fries. Highlights will be the dumplings, cumin lamb skewers cooked over charcoal, along with the rustic stir-fries inspired by the Hunan and Sichuan provinces." A range of cocktails, including the Strawberry Matcha Sour, Mango Spritz, Yuzu Paloma, and the Good Luck Dirty Martini, with the inviting addition of ginger and yuzu, are a welcome addition to the flavour-packed menu. Good Luck Eating House is fast and fresh, fun and full of energy, and sure to be a good time. Head in for lunch and dinner from Monday to Saturday, with late-night seatings available from Thursdays to Saturday. Images: Alana Dimou.
One of the top ways to treat yourself is to check into one of the best hotels in Sydney for a few nights. At these joints, you get a little bit of everything (or even a whole lot of everything). You get fresh plush sheets (this may seem basic, but we all know how good this feels), room service that you can eat in bed, pampering packages at award-winning spas, pools with epic views and just about anything else your luxurious self desires. And Sydney is packed with five-star hotels and brilliant boutique stays that will help you live your best life. So check out our guide to the best hotels in Sydney, perfect for those after a luxury staycation or out-of-town visitors in need of a base for exploring the city. Recommended reads: The Best Dog-Friendly Hotels in Sydney Sydney's Best Spa Experiences The Eight Best Glamping Spots in NSW The Best Luxury Getaways Near Sydney
