Maybe your day hasn't truly started until you've had your caffeine fix. Perhaps you like the ritual of the coffee shop experience. Or, you might just love pairing your cuppa with a cafe spread. Whichever applies, you'll have your favourite spots for a coffee — and you'll know that not all venues slinging it are created equal. According to the first-ever Top 100 Coffee Shops list, the very best place for a cuppa on the planet is Down Under. Toby's Estate Sydney flagship cafe and roastery in Chippendale in has been named the best in the world in the inaugural ranking, which made its picks based on the quality of coffee, barista experience and customer service, as well as each venue's approach to innovation, ambience and atmosphere, plus its sustainability practices, food and pastry quality, and consistency. Combined, Australia and New Zealand account for a tenth of the list, with eight other Aussie spots joining Toby's Estate, alongside one from Aotearoa. Two of those other Australian coffee shops also made the top ten: Proud Mary in Melbourne at fourth and Coffee Anthology in Brisbane at eighth. From around the globe, they were joined by Onyx Coffee Lab in the USA at second, Gota Coffee Experts in Australia in third and Tim Wendelboe in Norway at fifth — then Singapore's Apartment Coffee taking sixth place, Kawa in France at seventh, Malaysia's Story of Ono in ninth and Colombia's Tropicalia Coffee at tenth. Back to Down Under coffee havens, Veneziano Coffee Roasters in Melbourne came in at 19th, fellow Melburnian Calēre Coffee ranked 28th, Adelaide's Exchange Coffee placed 37th and Fonzie Abbott in Brisbane took 70th spot. Next came Melbourne's Vacation Coffee at 71 and Seven Seeds, also in Melbourne, at 87. Flying the flag for NZ, Rocket Coffee in Hamilton notched up 62nd place. [caption id="attachment_733568" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Proud Mary[/caption] So, in plenty of cities across Australia and Aotearoa, you've got no excuse to drink a subpar coffee. While Toby's Estate's Sydney flagship earned the list's love, it also has locations in Brisbane and Melbourne locally. "At Toby's Estate, coffee is at the heart of everything we do, and I think that's reflected in our customer's experience. Our whole team puts in an immense amount of effort to make the best coffee possible, so we're absolutely delighted to be awarded this incredible recognition," said the brand's General Manager Jody Leslie about the win. [caption id="attachment_992420" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Toby's Estate[/caption] [caption id="attachment_935274" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Fonzie Abbott[/caption] [caption id="attachment_631878" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Vacation Coffee[/caption] [caption id="attachment_918220" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Seven Seeds[/caption] [caption id="attachment_992421" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Toby's Estate[/caption] For more details about the Top 100 Coffee Shops list, head to the ranking's website.
The allure of a Mediterranean beach holiday might seem tempting, but you'll find a bounty of worthy vacation spots located right here in your own backyard. And if sun, sand and surf are on the agenda, there are plenty of idyllic island escapes up and down the coast of Queensland, just waiting to be explored. Indulge in a tropical getaway to Hamilton Island, or embrace the beachside life with a few days spent lounging in The Whitsundays. We've done the hard work for you and pulled together a list of the most idyllic island accommodations you can book in Queensland. Pick a favourite, pack your sunscreen and get ready to feel the sand between your toes. Recommended reads: The Best Hotels in Brisbane The Best Glamping Sites in Queensland The Best Dog-Friendly Accommodations in Queensland The Best Islands in Australia to Visit Any Time of the Year Central Airlie Holiday Home, Airlie Beach This Airlie Beach gem has room for the whole gang, but it's the divine deck and pool overlooking the Whitsunday Islands that'll steal your heart. From $545 a night, sleeps 10. Luxury Private Retreat Villa, Urangan Your own tropical haven, just minutes from the beaches of Hervey Bay. This breezy villa boasts contemporary styling, gorgeous outdoor living and a private pool. From $235 a night, sleeps six. Yacht Club 33, Hamilton Island This newly built island escape is a study in luxury living, complete with high-end features, pool access and sweeping ocean views throughout. From $1715 a night, sleeps nine. The Little Bush Hut, Nelly Bay On a secluded patch of island paradise, this stylishly restored hut is couples' holiday perfection. Fall in love with the private setting and the covered outdoor tub. From $310 a night, sleeps two. Headland House, Picnic Bay This architectural stunner boasts a covetable location on Magnetic Island, with luxurious spaces indoors and out, and epic ocean vistas to match. From $1752 a night, sleeps ten. Point Blue, Hamilton Island With its sleek interiors, picture-perfect views and abundance of outdoor living, this island home is the answer to all types of tropical holiday cravings. From $2164 a night, sleeps eight Point Lookout Townhouse, Point Lookout This stylish townhouse comes complete with panoramic water views, a gorgeous indoor-outdoor set-up and access to the complex's infinity pool. From $580 a night, sleeps seven. Complete Straddie Beach Retreat, Point Lookout Blissful island days await at this vibrant villa, perched just metres from the beach. Enjoy the romantic loft bedroom, sun-drenched deck and shared pool. From $219 a night, sleeps three Ascension, Point Lookout Luxe out in this sprawling holiday mansion, set overlooking the waters off Point Lookout. There's a huge deck, spa room and telescope for whale-watching. From $1000 a night, sleeps 12. Romantic Dog-Friendly Cottage, Macleay Island With leafy surrounds and pristine water views, this high-set cottage makes for a dreamy island hideaway. Split time between the cosy fireplace, luxurious spa and sunny deck. From $295 a night, sleeps four. Elementa House 1, Airlie Beach Unwind in style with a stay at this Whitsundays stunner, complete with private garden, shared infinity pool and master tub with breathtaking views. From $637 a night, sleeps six. 14 The Cove, Airlie Beach This next-level waterfront stay is what holiday dreams are made of. Indulge in show-stopping views from the open-plan living zones, sprawling deck and pool. From $960 a night, sleeps six. La Boheme Studio, Jubliee Pocket Experience your own little slice of Whitsundays magic at this contemporary coastal cottage, flitting between porch hammock and incredible magnesium pool. From $155 a night, sleeps two. Shorelines 23, Hamilton Island You'll feel on top of the world at this soaring Hamilton Island apartment, featuring panoramic ocean views and a stunning shared pool located just metres away. From $495 a night, sleeps six. Hamptons House on the Hill, Airlie Beach Boasting incredible vistas across the Whitsundays, a private pool and lots of luxury features, this award-winning Hamptons-style home is total bliss. From $375 a night, sleeps four. The Moreton Mansion, Tangalooma This generous three-level abode makes for a lavish group getaway, overlooking the waters of Moreton Bay. Plus, enjoy full access to the nearby resort facilities. From $1050 a night, sleeps 16+. Bedarra Island Villa, Bedarra Island A glam island paradise surrounded by leafy palms and lapping blue ocean. This designer villa boasts a stunning deck and delightfully secluded beachside setting. From $1258 a 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
When Alex Honnold scales a nearly kilometre-high cliff, it's with a look of fierce determination blazing in his eyes. When the professional climber discusses the extraordinary feat documented in Free Solo, the same no-nonsense vibe filters through his voice. He's never sombre — just direct. Ask him how it feels to venture to such great heights, and his response is "pretty good". Ask him about the possibility that his death could've been caught on camera, and he says he "basically didn't really care". As newly Oscar-nominated documentary Free Solo chronicles, Honnold made history while scampering up Yosemite's National Park's famous El Capitan rock formation. Plenty of climbers have propelled themselves up the granite monolith's 900-metre vertical expanse, but only Honnold has successfully done so without ropes. The practice is called free climbing. When it's done alone, it's called free soloing. Made plain in the title of Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin's film, Honnold's record-breaking quest to the top was completed by himself without any supportive or protective equipment. Unsurprisingly, it's a feat that has garnered significant attention — but reading news articles and seeing photographs really doesn't do it justice. Honnold notes that "the film doesn't quite do justice to the real scale of it" either, but watching Free Solo is as close as the rest of the world will get — and for many, as close as they'll ever want to get — to stepping into his climbing boots. Assisted by their filmmaking team, Vasarhelyi and Chin assemble an astonishing array of footage, with their connection to climbing evident in every frame. A real-life couple, they both directed acclaimed climbing documentary Meru, while Chin is also a professional climber in his own right. Of course, as exceptional as Free Solo's footage is — and as skilled as making viewers feel like they're making the nerve-racking climb with its subject, too — there would be no film without Honnold. He describes scaling El Cap as "an Olympic gold medal-level athletic achievement... and if you don't get that gold medal, you're going to die", in case the whole situation didn't already sound difficult and dangerous enough. Fresh from garnering considerable applause on the international film circuit, an array of accolades from critics groups and now an Academy Award nomination, Free Solo has arrived in Australian cinemas to share its thrills with eager cinema-goers. We spoke to Honnold about the motivation behind his love of climbing, his preparation process and the difficulties of opening his life up to the camera. [caption id="attachment_706084" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] National Geographic/Jimmy Chin[/caption] THE BIG QUESTION: WHY FREE SOLO? There's an enormous question at the heart of Honnold's climb — one that he recognises himself and that he can't completely answer. When asked what it is about free soloing that appeals to him, he replies: "I don't know, it's just a challenge that I seek out". That might sound like a blasé approach to a dangerous field where many experienced figures have died doing what they loved, but Honnold is anything but. In the film, he's meticulous about his work, documenting his progress in climbing journals, memorising complex moves and even living in his van so that he can remain as close as possible to El Cap. "It's just a more demanding style of climbing," he explains. "It requires more from you, so I feel that it gives a little bit more back in return." While Honnold also mentions finding personal limits and trying his hardest — "it's something I feel like I can do, and I feel a certain obligation to do the hard things that I'm capable of" — what truly shines through is how much he enjoys climbing. "I think it has always been the most fun part of my life," he reflects. "It's funny, because I think the really difficult parts of my life are doing the film tour and travelling and just doing appearances as a professional climber, and doing events — you know, working, things like that." That said, Honnold is also quick to stress the difference between climbing in general and free soloing. "Free soloing is pretty rewarding, but it is very difficult and challenging. If I could only choose one style of climbing for the rest of my life, it wouldn't be free soloing." [caption id="attachment_706086" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] National Geographic/Jimmy Chin[/caption] GETTING RID OF THE ROPES "Part of it is intense, but then part of it is amazing. A lot of it just has to do with which part of the route you're on." That's Honnold's assessment of climbing in general — so what made him decide to free solo El Cap, the route that was "always the last one [on his list] that was aspirational"? Initially, he thought it was too frightening, but that's where planning and training came in. It might seem incredulous to the watching audience, but "two years' preparation made something very scary feel relatively comfortable by the end," he notes. Given the life-and-death stakes at play, Honnold's training — which included two years of practice and climbing El Cap with a rope eight times — prepared him to take the leap. "There was no pressure to actually do the climb, so if I had never felt prepared for it — had I never felt comfortable — then I just wouldn't have done it". Of course, he wasn't just hopping to survive the climb, but to enjoy it. "Part of what was so satisfying about it was that I had exactly the experience that I was hoping for. Through the course of making the film, I spent so much time up there working on it, that when I finally did it, it felt great." HOW THE CAMERAS CHANGED THE CLIMB Honnold recognises that watching free soloing is hard. "I don't like to watch my friends free solo. Nobody really likes to watch free soloing — because, as you see here, and as audiences experience, it's just uncomfortable to watch somebody in that kind of position." It should come so no surprise, then, that the impact of the cameras on Honnold's climb — and the impact of his mammoth endeavour upon Vasarhelyi, Chin and their team — is as much a part of Free Solo as the eventual feat itself. Indeed, the documentary doesn't shy away from the emotional toll on those recording Honnold's every move, or the planning that went into ensuring that the filming process didn't take a toll on Honnold. "The crew did a remarkable job of insulating me from any of those [negative] feelings and just staying neutral throughout it all," says Honnold, noting that the cameras didn't feel like they changed his experience "at all". That said, if something had gone awry, Honnold wasn't worried for himself, or about the fact that his literal downfall would be caught on camera. "To me, if something went wrong — if I fell off and I died — I don't really care what happens to the footage after that because I'm dead," he says. Instead, his concerns lay with traumatising the camera crew, who are also his climbing pals. Honnold doesn't just expose the most dangerous moments of his life to Free Solo, however. The film also dives deep into his personal life, including his relationship with new girlfriend Sanni McCandless, which becomes strained as her worry for his safety and their life together is largely ignored as Honnold zeros in on his goal. As someone who'd clearly rather get on with the business of climbing, rather than talk about it, it's the more intimate side of his daily existence that proved the hardest part to share — and to watch later. "I cringed my way through that. I normally pull my hood really deep and cover my eyes. It's hard to watch. And a lot of it is hard to watch because I'm just not a great boyfriend and I'm not a great partner to Sanni." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7XhsuT0xctI Free Solo is now screening in Australian cinemas. Read our full review. Images: Madman / National Geographic / Jimmy Chin.
From today, the launch of Reservations by DoorDash gives you exclusive access to tables at your favourite restaurants across Sydney and Melbourne — even when they are fully booked. This innovative new feature means that your go-to app for dining in can now be used for dining out. DoorDash Vice President APAC, Simon Rossi, says, "The launch of Reservations marks an exciting evolution for DoorDash in Australia. We're not just delivering meals, we're helping diners connect with some of the most sought-after restaurants. Whether it's securing a table at a hatted venue or discovering a hidden local gem, this feature makes it easier than ever to enjoy unforgettable dining experiences. For our restaurant partners, Reservations is another way we're helping them showcase their venues, attract new guests, and foster lasting relationships through exceptional hospitality." The Reservations system is being rolled out across two major cities now, with further launches coming soon. And it's stupidly simple. All you need to do is locate the Reservations icon in the DoorDash app, browse what's available, and confirm your booking, all in the one app. DashPass members will also have access to exclusive tables held especially for them during busy days and time slots. And the best part is that booking through this system allows you to earn redeemable credits that can be used for future orders. Prestigious restaurants across Melbourne and Sydney have embraced this new booking system, including Bar Julius, Di Stasio, Embla, Harriot and Lottie. James Bradey, founder of Liquid & Larder, says, "Bar Julius is proud to be part of DoorDash's Reservations debut. We're excited to welcome more guests from the greater network into our little corner of Redfern and provide the welcoming, detail-driven experience that's become a hallmark of Bar Julius and the Liquid & Larder family." "The DoorDash partnership will open the doors to a diverse bunch of potential new regulars that we might not otherwise have been able to reach. We're always on the lookout for more people who have been searching for a place like ours, and being on the platform will help us to continue to grow as we start our second decade in business," says Christian McCabe, General Manager at Embla in Melbourne. Images: George Roske. Reservations on DoorDash rolls out across Melbourne and Sydney from November 20. If you're looking for ideas of where to dine, check out the best restaurants in Sydney, and the best restaurants in Melbourne.
There are 8222 islands within Australia's watery borders. You could spend your entire life hopping from one Aussie island to another and never quite make them all (well, unless you're very, very quick). So, we thought we'd save you some time by teaming up with Jim Beam and handpicking 12 of the best islands in Australia. That should at least get you started. Next time you start imagining you and your best mates on a white-sanded beach with quokkas close by, sea lions in the distance and your desks a few hundred kilometres away, these are the spots to catch a boat, plane, or ferry to. Remember: an adventure like this is best enjoyed together. Right? Recommended reads: The Best Glamping Sites in Australia The Best Beaches in Australia The Best Dog-Friendly Hotels in Australia [caption id="attachment_688591" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Coral Coast Tourism[/caption] Abrolhos Islands, Western Australia The Houtman Abrolhos isn't just an island, it's an archipelago. 122 isles make up the marvel, more or less clustered in three groups across 100 kilometres. They lie 60 kilometres off the Coral Coast, west of Geraldton, which is four hours north of Perth. Lose yourself snorkelling or diving among colourful coral, spotting Australian sea lions and looking out for more than 90 species of seabirds, including majestic white-breasted sea eagles. For mind-blowing views, jump aboard a scenic flight and see the best Australian island from a bird's eye view. [caption id="attachment_688571" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Paul Ewart for Tourism and Events Queensland[/caption] North Stradbroke Island, Queensland Located 25 minutes by ferry off the Queensland coast, Stradbroke Island is an easy day trip from Brisbane. It's the second biggest sand island in the world after K'gari (more on that Australian island later). For swimming in gentle waves, head to idyllic Cylinder Beach; for wilder surf, make your destination the 38-kilometre-long Main Beach. Overnight stays include beach camping, as well as an array of cottages, hotels and B&Bs. Just north of Straddie is Moreton Island, a wonderland of long beaches, clear lakes and a national park. Consider sleeping over at Tangalooma, an eco-friendly resort where you can hand-feed wild dolphins and swim around a shipwreck. [caption id="attachment_773788" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tom Archer, Destination NSW[/caption] Lord Howe Island, New South Wales Just 11 kilometres long and two kilometres wide, Lord Howe, a two-hour flight east of Sydney, is explorable within a few days. Whenever you travel on this top Australian island, you won't have to fear tourist crowds: only 400 visitors are permitted at any one time and the population is just 382. Prepare to have pretty beaches, spectacular diving sites and rugged terrain all to yourself. Among the best adventures are the Mount Gower Trail, a steep, eight-hour trek that carries you 875 metres above sea level, and Erscott's Hole, a natural wonder where you can snorkel among staghorn coral, bluefish and double-headed wrasse. With all this natural beauty, it's easy to see why it made our list of the best islands in Australia and best overall places to visit in Australia. [caption id="attachment_770035" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Australia[/caption] Bruny Island, Tasmania Bruny feels completely remote, yet it's just a 20-minute ferry ride from the coast and, with driving time added, 50 minutes from Hobart. The beauty of this proximity to the city is that, despite all the wilderness, you can find some top nosh: for fish and chips head to Jetty Cafe; for pub grub swing by Hotel Bruny; for cheese visit Bruny Island Cheese Company; and for a tipple, there's the Bruny Island House of Whisky. Meanwhile, nature lovers will find white wallabies at Inala Nature Reserve, windswept headlands at Cape Bruny Lighthouse and head-clearing watery views at Cloudy Bay. [caption id="attachment_688568" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Khy Orchard for Tourism and Events Queensland[/caption] Magnetic Island, Queensland There are hundreds of islands in the Great Barrier Reef area, offering everything from secluded campsites to five-star luxury resorts. But, for convenience, outdoor adventures and, most importantly, koala spotting, Magnetic Island is hard to go past — found just 20 minutes from Townsville. Get active with sea kayaking tours and yoga classes, get artsy at beachside markets and galleries or relax at stunning beaches like Horseshoe Bay. If you're keen to venture further, jump aboard a Great Barrier Reef snorkelling, diving or sightseeing tour. [caption id="attachment_688400" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Isaac Forman for SA Tourism Commission[/caption] Kangaroo Island, South Australia With a whopping 509 kilometres of coastline, Kangaroo Island could have you exploring for weeks. To get there, take a 45-minute ferry ride from Cape Jervis, on the Fleurieu Peninsula — around 100 kilometres south of Adelaide. Then gear up to share your holiday with sea lions, fur seals, little penguins, echidnas, koalas and, you guessed it, kangaroos. The Australian island is a haven for creatures who've struggled to survive elsewhere, especially local sea lions, who were hunted to the brink of extinction in the 19th and 20th centuries. There are numerous national parks and conservation areas, and the almost 5000-strong population is big on food and wine. You also can't talk about this Aussie island without mentioning the spectacular beaches — our favourite being the one and only Stoke's Bay. [caption id="attachment_874908" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Guillaume Marques (Unsplash)[/caption] The Whitsundays, Queensland In total, The Whitsundays is made up of 74 islands. It's hard to choose the best, especially as each depends on what kind of holiday you're after. You can go camping on the famous Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island, live it up at The InterContinental Resort on Hayman Island or even escape to an adults-only oasis like Elysian Retreat on Long Island — one of the best adults-only accommodations in The Whitsundays. From any of these small islands in Australia, you can easily get to the Great Barrier Reef and countless other stunning natural landscapes. This region is also one of Australia's national parks, so it will continue to be preserved for many years to come — even if the reef itself does die off. [caption id="attachment_683983" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Western Australia[/caption] Rottnest Island, Western Australia Rottnest Island is a 90-minute ferry ride from Barrack Street Jetty, Perth, or 25 minutes from Fremantle. Like Kangaroo Island, Rottnest has given a big dose of much-needed love to Australia's wild creatures, particularly quokkas, which now number 12,000 or so. Dedicate some time to spotting them (though please don't go touching, patting or feeding) before visiting pristine beaches, such as The Basin, where you'll find an underwater playground, and Little Parakeet Bay, backdropped by striking rock formations. The best way to explore the Aussie island is by bike, but we are also big fans of getting on a sea kayak for the arvo as well. Prefer to stay here longer than a day? We recommend spending a few nights in Discovery Rottnest Island's luxe glamping tents by the beach. Phillip Island, Victoria Phillip Island's biggest drawcard is its penguin parade. Every night, at sunset, the island's resident little penguins return to their terrestrial homes, having spent the day out and about fishing. Beyond wildlife watching, go wine and craft beer tasting, bliss out with a massage or spa treatment or conquer a trail on foot, such as the Cape Woolamai Walk, which traverses dramatic clifftops along Phillip's southernmost point. Follow the links for suggestions on where to eat and drink and the best outdoor activities on Phillip Island. Unlike most of the other Australian islands on this list, you can reach this one by road: it's around 90 minutes' drive south of Melbourne, making it one of the most accessible islands in Australia. [caption id="attachment_911608" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Courtesy of Kingfisher Bay Resort[/caption] K'gari (Fraser Island), Queensland World Heritage-listed K'gari (Fraser Island) is the biggest sand island in the world. There are 184,000 hectares of the stuff, made up of 72 colours and mostly in the form of magnificent dunes, much of which are covered in rainforest. If you've time on your hands, take on the Great Walk, an eight-day epic that visits many of K'gari's 100 freshwater lakes. If not, jump aboard a 4WD and cruise along 75 Mile Beach (one of our favourite adventure experiences in Australia), take a dip at Champagne Pools along the way and pay a visit to awe-inspiring Boorangoora(Lake McKenzie), a perched lake made up of rainwater and soft silica sand. [caption id="attachment_688583" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Andrew Wilson for Tourism Tasmania[/caption] King Island, Tasmania You might have no idea where King Island is, but may have seen its cheese at the supermarket. King Island Dairy's decadent triple cream brie is an Aussie gourmet staple. But it's far from the only treat you'll be sampling in this lush place, which lies in the Bass Strait, halfway between Victoria and Tassie. Count, too, on super-fresh seafood, flavourful beef and a cornucopia of produce from local growers. When you're finished feasting, stroll along the white sands of Disappointment Bay, visit a 7000-year-old calcified forest and go horse riding by the sea. This under-the-radar travel destination is undoubtedly one of the best islands in Australia. [caption id="attachment_856441" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism and Events Queensland[/caption] Bribie Island, Queensland Bribie Island isn't that far from Brisbane (a little over one and a half hours), but is a haven for local wildlife. That's because this Australian island is home to the Pumicestone Passage, a protected marine park where you'll find dugongs, turtles, dolphins and a diverse range of birdlife. All the classic Aussie land animals will be found all over the island, too. And, of course, the beaches are just stupidly beautiful. Whether you're a local or tourist, this island offers all the quintessential Australian sites you must see. Like Jim Beam, surfing and other outdoor adventures are all about bringing people together, so get out there this summer and find your tribe in the great outdoors. Top images: K'gari Island, courtesy of Kingfisher Bay Resort.
When one bar closes, hopefully another one opens — and, thankfully, that's proving the case at the former Hazy Rose site on Sydney's iconic Stanley Street. Adding a dash of film noir moodiness to Darlinghurst, The Long Goodbye is the kind of joint even Humphrey Bogart would approve of. Think old-school charm to match the Raymond Chandler novel and subsequent movie it's named after, plus classic cocktails, and live jazz and blues on Thursdays. Old-fashioned service and taking inspiration from old flicks might be in order here, but not everything harks back to years gone by. In a thoroughly modern move, bar manager and owner Flynn McLennan, of the Zeta Bar, has brought along an in-house chemist to develop his range of house-made liqueurs. The mixologist has used an ultrasonic machine to create a host of unique flavours, including a duck fat washed apricot brandy, strawberry balsamic shrub and chilli bitters. And to help bring home the DIY feel, you'll find their beverage list hand-typed on a vintage typewriter. Thanks to elaborate homages to the post-World War II era, the new hangout will make you feel like you're in classic noirs from the '40s (when Chandler's big hit The Big Sleep reached screens) through to the '70s (when Robert Altman's movie adaptation of The Long Goodbye made it to cinemas) in no time, lending cocktail-lovers a dark, brooding atmosphere. Candelabras, antique artworks, leather chesterfield lounges and ornate chairs help The Long Goodbye look the part, with McLennan and co-owner Dennis Jen finding the bar's furniture and glassware from local markets and Newtown's Chris On King vintage shop. Find The Long Goodbye at 1/83 Stanley Street, Darlinghurst, or visit their Facebook page for more information.
Whether you're shopping for Christmas gifts, birthday presents or simply treating yourself for surviving another shitty year, the inner west has it all. This diverse and thriving creative community sells everything from handmade pickles and First Nations art to craft beers and ethically-made clothing. And they've never needed our business more. In partnership with Inner West Council, we've rounded up the area's top shops to visit. Peruse the stores in person, sample some of the tasty treats and locally made booze, take part in creative workshops or buy yourself a new scented candle. Go on, you deserve a bit of retail therapy.
The guys behind cured meat diner Chester White — Nick Sullivan and Stu Curran — have taken the phrase cottage industry to heart. This cosy spot inside a converted old Potts Point terrace is named after a breed of pale-skinned pig, pictured on the wall and menu, prompting customer to make an oinker of themselves. Dining at Chester White is much like a very well-researched picnic in a bar environment: high-quality salami and prosciutto shared plates, lots of cheese, cocktails and vino aplenty. The kitchen, as it is, is behind the bar, with meats dangling from hooks. It's a very canny and affordable way to operate a tapas bar, which is how Chester White functions best. You wouldn't come here to get a feast, but instead while away a few hours with something to munch on and some drinks. For $28, you can choose any two meats, which will come with house pickled vegetables and fruit, two cheeses, olives and lavosh. There's also duck pâté ($15), handmade empanadas with meat or veg ($18), parmesan-crusted cauliflower with pickled grapes and sage butter ($18), vitello tonnato ($17) and a seasonal salad ($19). [caption id="attachment_776052" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cacio e pepe[/caption] For heartier dishes, expect braised beef cheeks slow-cooked for six hours ($25), torched octopus with smoked romesco, pickled onion and charred lemon ($19) and, the main star, pasta. It's hard to look past the truffle cacio e pepe ($26), which comes out in a cheese wheel, gets mixed through, then served onto your plate. Otherwise, there's the traditional-style carbonara ($26) with organic porcini mushroom, caramelised speck, egg yolk and pecorino (no cream) and the two types of hand-rolled ricotta gnocchi — wild mushroom ragu and spicy nduja ragu — which both cost $26. There's a nod to 1950s Americana, with retro bar stools, blues tunes playing and an almost New Orleans-like ground floor balcony. You'll also find the staff often sporting boots, denim, western-style shirts and hats. It's a deliberately laidback premise with a buzzing atmosphere and affable staff. It's walk-in only, which means you can check out one of the many neighbouring bars while you wait, too. Updated: July 15, 2020
2025's Melbourne International Film Festival unveiled its initial titles in early June. A month later, the year's full program arrived with hundreds more movies on its slate, ready to play to the Victorian capital's cinephiles across 18 busy August days. Before July was out — so, well ahead of the Thursday, August 7–Sunday, August 24 fest kicking off — Pasa Faho had already sold out every one of its MIFF sessions, becoming the first film to do so this year. Igbo Australian filmmaker Kalu Oji's debut feature deserves that warm, hearty, enthusiastic embrace; it offers the same to the Adelaide-born writer/director and visual artist's own community, thoughtfully and tenderly so. Pasa Faho shot "over a year and a half ago now, and it feels like it's been quite a long time since we've been in the real thick of the project", Oji tells Concrete Playground; however, Melbourne's response to the world-premiere screenings of the movie, sellouts included, "brings a whole new life to your relationship with the film". He continues: "as soon as it's out in the world and the audience embraces it and becomes part of that process, it's a reinvigoration of all those feelings and all that excitement that was so rich and so present a little while ago". Oji has channelled his own passion into a feature that sprang from him wanting to ask questions — a picture that moulds his queries into a father-son story, an exploration of African Australian life, an unpacking of family structures as well as communities, a musing on what it means to be an Igbo man today, an examination of expectations and clashes around them, an interrogation of straddling two cultures, and more. As it tells of Melbourne shoe salesman Azubuike (Nigerian stand-up comedian Okey Bakassi, Bank Alert) and his 12-year-old son Obinna (Tyson Palmer, Young Rock), Pasa Faho steps into their relationship, and also the existences of those around them, in a heartfelt yet equally clear-eyed manner. The film's title, a play on words stemming from "parts of a whole", is a clue to its emotional journey and tone. Two changes shake up Azubuike's routine: Obinna's move from interstate, which is initially cause for elation more on the former's part than the latter's; and the discovery that the store that Azubuike manages is being sold to developers. Oji's protagonist is caught, then, between trying to provide a solid foundation for his child, including fighting for the job, the paycheque and the proudly hardworking sense of himself that he believes is pivotal to that life, and being able to spend time and be open with Obinna — and between his perspective and ideals, as shaped by his upbringing far from Australia, and the experience of a son whose childhood couldn't be more different. Pasa Faho also spreads its focus to Amaka (first-timer Laureta Idika Uduma), Azubuike's sister and Obinna's aunt, and her tale of sacrifice to do what's expected — and to Yorgos (Kostas Makrygiannakis, The Slap), aka Bogo, the septuagenarian European florist whose own store adjacent to Azubuike's is equally under threat. And, it sees Azubuike's colleague Yrsa (Tardif Hélène, The Industry), a friend impacted by the impending building sale. In its sights as well: Nigerian preacher Edward (fellow newcomer Idika Mba Uduma), too, as he balances his ambitions with his responsibilities as a leader in Melbourne's Igbo community. Oji's filmmaking journey began at the Victorian College of the Arts, with his 2019 graduate film Blackwood making its way to the likes of Palm Springs Shortfest and the BFI London Film Festival, and winning awards at Flickerfest and the Atlanta Film Festival. 2021's The Moon and Me was acquired by San Francisco's Museum of the African Diaspora, while 2023's What's in a Name? picked up another Flickerfest accolade, plus the Craft Award at Sydney Film Festival. Each is "an essential part of series of steps" leading him to Pasa Faho, he explains. "They gave me experience in terms of being on set, and how I like to direct actors and direct, and what I find works when I've got a vision or an idea — and how I get close to that or 'if I do X and I get Y, do I like Y and would I apply that to my practice?'. And there's all those practical tools and practical experiences I think it gave me as a director." "And then mentally and emotionally — I guess energetically — how I like to be on set and the kind of environment I want to make films in, and the kind of space I want to create on the set. It gave me a very firm idea of that that we took into the feature film. And tonally, stylistically, I think if you watch the short films we made from Blackwood, they're all different stories but I think you'll see they're all very, very, very similar-ish tonally. I think that those years of making those shorts helped me find my style, helped me find the things I'm interested in — even though it's ever-changing — and helped me find the tools and the lens that I wanted to approach Pasa Faho through." That Paso Faho is personal, and also intimate — that it brings an insight into the Melbourne's Igbo community, too — was always key. Did that come with a sense of responsibility for Oji? "Many, many hands helped make this film, and many minds went toward what you see on-screen. And I think there is a responsibility for sure, and as a writer, as a director, I lead that in some way and I carry that," he notes. "But working in collaboration, I think, is always the best way to do justice to those ideas." What it means for this Melbourne-set and movie to have world-premiered in Melbourne, the questions that the film arose from, fleshing out the narrative from there, key elements that were always part of the filmmaker's vision for the feature, the consultation and casting processes: we also discussed all of the above and more with Oji. View this post on Instagram A post shared by MIFF (@melbfilmfest) On the Significance of Premiering the Melbourne-Set and -Made Paso Faho in Melbourne "The crew had been working together for quite a long time, and we've built somewhat of a film family over the last nearly a decade now. I think so many of the people that have supported that journey and have made it possible for us to continue that journey are here in this city, and in our families and our communities and all those circles. So I think to be able to launch the film with everyone who's made it possible for us to even be at this point feels like a blessing. It feels really really appropriate." On Pasa Faho Springing From Wanting to Ask Questions "I had started writing the script in 2020, towards the end of 2020. And I've made quite a number of shorts, and been wanting to step into the feature filmmaking space — while being aware and listening to what people were telling me in terms of 'it could take five, ten, 15, 20 years to get a film up'. So when I sat down to start writing, I was looking at 'what are the themes, what is the material that is most present in my mind that I feel like I'm going to be wanting to explore if it takes as long as it takes?'. And so for me, that's the place I started writing from. In terms of the questions and what I was wanting to explore in the film, obviously it's a world that's very, very close to me and characters that are very, very close to me. And I think a lot of the time, I think I've often felt — and this is for Azubuike, Obinna, Amaka, Bogo, for all these people, for all the characters that existed in my mind — I guess it was me wanting to go behind the curtains of these people's minds. I think these are characters, and the problems the characters face in the film are problems, that I've felt like I've seen versions of from the outside. And I think the film was me wanting to understand what's behind all of that, and what does that weight feel like, and what does that joy feel like? It was me wanting to understand these characters." On Fleshing Out the Film's Narrative From Those Initial Queries "I think it started, the way I wrote this film, I wrote a vomit draft and then refined it from there. I think the vomit draft was much more themes and ideas and character-based, and probably less of a plot. I think once I had those pieces, and once I became aware that 'okay, I'm wanting to explore fatherhood; I'm wanting to explore the relationship between a father and a son, and when you have these two people who look at the world through two different lenses; I'm wanting to explore expectation and the pressures, and the familial pressures that a character like Amaka receives whether directly or indirectly; I'm wanting to explore regret and how one comes to terms with decisions that they would have made differently in the past through the character of Bogo'; I'm wanting to explore religion, with the church and the church's relationship with my community, with the Nigerian community, and this relationship between church and land and ownership and all those things — once I had all those ingredients on the page in some way, I think I began to look for a thread and look for a plot that allowed me to speak about them. And, to explore them in the way I want to explore them, while also being very aware — and becoming more aware for our production as well — that I'm wanting to make a piece that is entertaining. And it's got twists and it's got turns, and there's stakes. And for an audience, it's not purely just an observational character piece, but it's a plot that the audience dig their teeth into as well." On Making a Work of Fiction That's Also a Very Personal Film — for Oji and for the Community "It's tricky. I think because you're not writing from a completely blank slate, it takes a very conscious effort to try to shake off any reservations or baggage that comes from these characters being abstractions of things that are really close to you in real life. And I think that work is a lot more active and conscious and tricky than if you're writing characters that are completely distant from you. So I think I probably felt that most in the development phase." On Pasa Faho Being Both Deeply Specific and Also Universally Relatable "In terms of making a film that felt it was very, very specific, while at the same time feeling universal, I think on the surface it's about a father and a son, and a father undergoing this set of trials and this reckoning which pushes him to ask questions about how he relates to his son, and brings them closer or further together — and I think that relationship between parent and child is inherently relatable. Everyone has had or has a parent, and lots of us also have children. So I think that, whether you set this story in the Igbo Nigerian community here in Melbourne, whether you set it in the Polish community in Warsaw, you set it wherever in South Africa, I think there's a relatability that is embedded in the exploration of that relationship." On Whether There Were Specific Elements About Being an Igbo Man in Melbourne Today and Straddling Two Different Cultures That Oji Wanted to Explore and Convey in the Film "Yeah, big, big time. I think a lot it, I wanted to capture this pressure that I feel like is often felt almost universally by people who are in the diaspora, and more specifically people who have been born and raised on the continent and moved abroad, especially moved to 'the west' — but the pressure that comes along with finding yourself in that position. You never exist in isolation. You're never just living for yourself. And that's a beautiful thing. And the fact that community and family and all those values are held so strongly in a culture such as ours, such as Igbo culture, is a beautiful thing. But there's also a lot of pressure that comes along with that, especially financially. And the weight of that pressure, I think, is often not talked about. I think there's an expectation you often just keep your head down and you move forward. I think those sacrifices that people also find themselves in — a character like Amaka, who, in another life, maybe she wanted to be a zookeeper or a painter or a football player or whatever she wanted to do. Someone in her position, you have very limited options in terms of what you're expected to do. And to feel the way that she feels in the film, it's a taboo thing. It's unspoken. So I definitely wanted to explore that. And I also very much wanted to capture the push and pull of being in a country like Australia, with your roots of family in Nigeria, and trying to raise a child in your shadow or in your values — where Nigeria and Australia are very, very different places, and it's hard when you have a child that is raised to look at the world through one certain way, but you've never had that lens or that vision because you were raised to look at a world in a very different kind of way. There can be a lot of tension in that experience, and I want to capture that." On Consulting and Engaging with Melbourne's Igbo Community to Help Shape Pasa Faho "Yeah, yeah, 3000 percent. All throughout the process, it's quite — I've forgotten at what point in development, but quite early on. I live here and these people I've known from before they were involved in the film. But at a certain point in development, we formalised workshops and meetings and sitdowns, and especially getting that perspective — because I don't have Azubuike's perspective, and we're trying to understand him as a character. Meeting with people of that generation of men, with men of that generation with children as well, who've moved here. We wanted to get a richness and authenticity. And also, it's very much I wrote and directed the script and the seed of it came from my heart, for lack of better words, but this character is crafted to be a depiction of that experience in general. And so what came from those meetings, and what came from those sitdowns and workshops, were a lot of the details that make up the film. The tension between Obinna and Oscar, and him taking on a different name, came from an anecdote that someone had told me while just sitting down and chatting. The inner workings of his character and his pride, and I guess where he draws that line, that came from sitting down and speaking to people who have lived more of that experience than I have lived. So yeah, definitely. It was intrinsic. It was essential to making this film." On the Importance of Casting, Especially Finding the Right Azubuike and Obinna "It was massive. It was massive. And I think I'm, as a director and the way I've worked in the past, and the way I worked with this film and the way I want to work in the future even more so, it's so actor-focused. I love, I love — I might say I'm an actor's director. I love getting people involved in the process early. I love bringing a blueprint of a character to an actor and letting them take it with both hands and build them together, and they're bringing their perspective, and their whole set of experience and expertise, to that character — and together we make that person, that character, as rich as possible. So for casting it, because it was language-specific, we started our process quite early for the character of Azubuike and for the character of Amaka. And it was long and it was extensive. And we were aware that this person, especially for Azubuike, he needed to carry the film. The film relied on him and Obinna and their relationship, but especially on Azubuike. So eventually we got to a point of process where we felt it made sense to reach out to Okey, especially as he's got a lot of experience and a lot of charisma as a performer. But it was also this material, I think, was also asking him to step into a space that he frequents less so. And so we thought it was exciting, it was a bit of an exciting opportunity. And then for Tyson, it was less specific — we cast the net more broadly. He didn't need to speak the language. It wasn't language-specific. But as soon as we found Tyson throughout the process, he was great, we knew it from two minutes into the audition." On What Oji Hopes Audiences Will Leave the Cinema Thinking and Feeling About, and Having Discovered From Pasa Faho "I hope they're there for the journey. The film is a domestic film and it's drama, but it's a ride, and we've tried to craft strong characters on-screen who the audience can really settle in next to and beyond that. I hope people laugh. I hope people cry. I hope it offers a broad range of emotions. And I think I also hope it brings up feelings and thoughts for the audience's own relationships with people in their life — whether that's a parent, whether that's a child, whether that's whoever is close to them. I hope that it opens up a door to a certain tenderness that exists and is important in those relationships, but it's not always voiced. I hope that's what it brings." Pasa Faho screens at the 2025 Melbourne International Film Festival. MIFF 2025 runs from Thursday, August 7–Sunday, August 24 at a variety of venues around Melbourne; from Friday, August 15–Sunday, August 17 and Friday, August 22–Sunday, August 24 in regional Victoria; and online nationwide from Friday, August 15–Sunday, August 31. For further details, visit the MIFF website.
There's a good chance you've never experienced hot pot the Shabuway. From its home on Dixon Street, Haymarket, this 120-seat venue offers a bold reimagining of Japanese-style hot pot in an all-you-can-eat, fully self-serve format. Guided by the Wannian Alliance, the same team behind cult-favourite buffet-style restaurants like Butchers Buffet and Gyuniku, Shabuway now occupies the former Arisun space — the hospitality group's legacy venue that stood for 35 years. Here, guests experience a meeting of Japanese, Korean and Chinese influences, where each table centres around a yin-yang pot featuring distinct cooking sections for two broths. Over at the buffet, it's a sprawling affair, adorned with rotating hot and cold dishes, fried goods, house-made soups, and a dessert station with a soft-serve bar and toppings from crushed Oreos to M&M's. There's even a DIY bao bun station, where diners can fill fluffy steamed buns with smoked duck, spicy pork, bulgogi beef brisket and house-made condiments. Led by Executive Head Chef Joanne Lee, the kitchen is constantly restocking sumptuous flavours, from chicken and ginseng soup to an array of sliced meats, including chicken tenderloin, pork belly and decadent wagyu MB9+ signature rolls. The drinks menu is also well-stocked, with sweet soju options, renowned Asian beers and a refined tea selection for when you prefer a hot beverage. Although dining is the main event, Shabuway hasn't overlooked design. Decked out with timber tones and fresh green accents, an inviting atmosphere is supported by indoor and al fresco dining areas that flow naturally back and forth between the self-serve stations. Open daily, all-you-can-eat prices vary across lunch and premium dinner services, with this shabu-shabu spot offering unmatched buffet goodness, perfect for tailoring a precise hot pot session. Images: Johnny Norris
Sometimes old is better than new. If there are any people that know this to be true, it is the vendors at Lunatiques warehouse in Alexandria. The space describes itself as a 'collective' that houses pre-loved goods aplenty from furniture and homewares to art. Just about every design style is covered off here: art deco, industrial, retro and antique. If you're browsing for smaller goods, Green Square station is right outside. If you have your eye on something bigger, there is parking available on-site or delivery can be arranged. Images: Kitti Gould
On the dividing line of two of Sydney's most eclectic suburbs, Newtown's Delhi 'O' Delhi on Erskineville Road brings the fine dining and elegance of the grand hotels of Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata to the Inner West. Opened in 2007 by restaurateur Javed Khan, it owes its success to Javed's keen attention to detail and the nuanced regional cuisine elegantly prepared by head chef Kailash. Staying true to its locale, Delhi 'O' Delhi offers up a vegan and vegetarian menu including cottage cheese and potato dumplings in a spicy spinach sauce, and a vegan butter chicken made of tofu with delicately spiced dry fenugreek leaves, cashew nut and coconut cream. There is also a vegetarian sharing platter that features Achari Paneer, Potli Samosa and Gola Kebab. Elsewhere on the menu is an extensive list of poultry dishes including a butter chicken served with cultured Pepe Saya butter and Assamese duck curry with whole spices, black pepper and ash gourd. The more adventurous amongst us might like to try the Beef Chutney – a seriously spicy serve of braised beef with mint, chilli and ginger, or Achamma's camel curry – diced camel served with coconut, coriander and fenugreek – straight from Kailash's grandmother's kitchen. With the elegance of old-world India infused with contemporary techniques and regional delicacies, this is the kind of Indian restaurant you want to spend an entire evening in. Thankfully there is an extensive drinks list including cocktails such as the Bombay Spritz, a mix of gin, sweet vermouth, rose syrup and sparkling wine, as well as a wine list with a broad selection from Tasmania as well as the Yarra and Hunter valleys, by the glass or bottle. Winner of the Restaurant and Catering Awards for Best Indian Restaurant in NSW four years running, it's no surprise that Javed's dream of bringing the timeless charm of India's iconic hotels has not only survived but thrived across 18 years. The impeccable service doesn't hurt either.
House of Pocket — the group behind Stitch, Kasippu and Pocket Bar – is making a return to the classics, and you're invited along for the ride. You can now take your pick of one of 30 golden age cocktails for just $18 a pop. On the list you'll find the Hemingway Daquiri (rum, maraschino, grapefruit, lime), the Mint Julep (bourbon, mint, syrup), the Bees Knees (gin, honey, lemon) and another 27 concoctions that all cocktail drinkers should know. If you haven't tried them all yet, this is an excellent opportunity to give some a go. On top of celebrating the great mixology tradition, the House of Pocket folks are keen to make going out more affordable – any night of the week. "It would be great if pollies could level the playing field and give cocktail drinkers the same tax relief they gave beer drinkers," said owner Karl Schlothauer. You'll find Stitch, which takes inspiration from the back streets of New York City, behind a tailor's shop front on York Street, while Kasippu brings a warm atmosphere and delicious Sri Lankan curries to Kent Street. Pocket Bar is by the waves in Terrigal on the Central Coast. All 30 cocktails are available at all three venues.
The famed works of artists like Monet, Renoir and Pissarro are set to make their way down under, with the Art Gallery of South Australia announcing it'll host a major French Impressionism exhibition curated by Paris' Musée d'Orsay. Featuring over 65 world-celebrated Impressionist works from the French museum's collection, Colours of Impressionism: Masterpieces from the Musée d'Orsay will grace the gallery's Elder Wing from March 29 to July 29, 2018. Exploring the use of colour throughout the Impressionist movement, the exhibition is set to serve up a pretty sensational visual feast. Expect the luminous tones of Monet's La Pie (The Magpie), the rich blues and greens of Cézanne's French countryside imagery and the moody hues of Manet's Spanish-influenced pieces, alongside scores of other innovative nineteenth century masterpieces. With many of the works having never before travelled to the southern hemisphere, Colours of Impressionism is a huge coup for the Aussie art world, with director Nick Mitzevich calling it "the most important exhibition ever to be shown at the Art Gallery of South Australia." As the state's Premier and Arts Minister Jay Weatherill notes, "the works of artists such as Monet and Cézanne, for example, are so well regarded that this exhibition is bound to be very popular among Australians who would welcome the chance to see such an extensive display of Impressionist works in their own backyard." Colours of Impressionism: Masterpieces from the Musée d'Orsay will exhibit at the Art Gallery of South Australia from Thursday, March 29 to Sunday, July 29, 2018. For more information, visit the gallery website. Image: Claude Monet, The Water Lilies Pond, pink harmony, 1900, oil on canvas, 90 x 100 cm, Musée d'Orsay, Paris, France, ©photo Musée d'Orsay / rmn
Mark + Vinny's Spaghetti and Spritz Bar opened this April, and, as promised, it's turning out some seriously radioactive-looking pastas. These colourful creations are brought to you by restaurateur Mark Filippelli (co-owner of Melbourne's Matcha Mylkbar) and his best mate Vince Pizzinga, who are offering Sydneysiders sustainable, ethical and vegan fare, some of which looks like it came from another planet. Set in an intimate space along a quiet strip of Waterloo Street, the restaurant sits between the stalwart cafe Orto Trading Co. and the Light Rail construction. This means the block is completely dead on a Tuesday night — apart from the bustling Mark + Vinny's, that is. For its first week it was an impressive sight — every table was taken within the first hour and the space was filled with excited chatter. Although the restaurant fits barely more than ten tables inside, the servers move around seamlessly and the friendly service adds to the lively vibe. Maybe it was just the spritzes talking, but people really seemed to be indulgently enjoying themselves. With a menu of 20 spritzes on offer, it's hard not to feel the urge to try a few, though the sheer size of the menu is overwhelming and we found it best to ask the server for suggestions — round after round. Filippelli and Pizzinga both have their own namesake spritzes and, of the many we tried on the night, they did prove to be some of the best. The Vince comes with theatrically scorched, Frangelico-soaked hazelnuts, along with blood orange and wattle cola — a combination that is reminiscent of a classic Venetian spritz but taken to the next level. The Mark better resembles a tropical cocktail, made with white rum, watermelon and sparkling coconut water, then garnished with a whole lychee and served in a coconut shell to boot. The drinks do take a bit to come out, but you can hardly blame the bartender considering the number of ingredients and tiny space with which they have to operate. Despite the wait, the drinks were beautifully executed every time. The nearly-a-bar vibe almost had us fooled, but in truth it's not really a place to come just for drinks — though the outdoor patio seating begs for an aperitivo hour in warmer weather. Food-wise, we came for the main drawcard: the neon blue spirulina pasta. On the menu, it takes the form of a blue swimmer crab tagliatelle, topped with cured fish roe and crunchy breadcrumbs. We were surprised how well it worked, with the blue colouring complementing the oceanic ingredients. The pasta itself had a nice bite to it, and, apart from the neon aspect, tasted like any freshly-made pasta ought to. The modern spins are accompanied by some hearty classics, like the maccarruni calabrese, a recipe from Pizzinga's nonna that is made with beef rib ragu, which is slow-cooked the traditional Calabrian way. The long and chewy pasta is miles away from the macaroni you've had as a kid and is likely the best on the menu. In terms of the vegan carbonara, we can finally confirm that the vegan egg really does ooze like real yolk and adds the creaminess needed; the house-cured mushroom is a pretty convincing pancetta replacement, too, though the texture of the activated charcoal bucatini needs some work. The duo has smartly recruited head chef Adrian Jankuloski (Icebergs, The Dolphin Hotel). You'll find his personal touches in the entrees, like the burnt eggplant dip served with charred Italian flatbread and a whole red chilli from Jankuloski's backyard; or the zucchini flowers stuffed with smoked almond curd instead of cheese, served over a nutty red capsicum sauce. Overall, the menu is thoughtfully done and certainly sets the restaurant apart, though we have a feeling its the traditional over the unusual dishes that will keep customers coming back.
It's hard to say when it started, but the bubble tea craze in Sydney has well and truly taken over. What originated as a Taiwanese sweet treat has grown into a global phenomenon, and Sydneysiders are all too happy to embrace the trend. Our deep love of tapioca balls in milky or fruity teas has taken on a force all of its own. The ever-growing list of boba shops in our city is astounding. To help you find the best of the best, we've put together our list of the best bubble tea stores in Sydney. From mega chains and traditional Taiwanese operators to homegrown Sydney talent and all the cheese foam you could ask for, this list has you covered.
It's bloody hard to get anywhere from Australia, so we Aussies tend to take our holidays seriously. A new survey from travel consultancy Forward Travel has analysed data from the Department of Home Affairs' Overseas Arrivals and Departures to reveal where Australians have been travelling since 2021. The report ranks global destinations, clearly outlining the winners and losers in attracting Australian tourists. Unsurprisingly, the top spots remained consistent. As expected, Indonesia continues to dominate Australian travel trends. With Bali's beautiful landscapes, proximity, and affordability, Indonesia remains one of the top travel destinations for Australians. Likewise, New Zealand maintains its strong standing due to family ties and its proximity to Australia, it would be shocking to see it fall from favour. Singapore also features prominently, serving as both a central transit hub and a destination in its own right. The USA, UAE, Thailand, and Fiji remain solid contenders. These destinations have remained relatively stable in rankings, serving as "comfort corridors" for Australians, places we trust and return to, even as other destinations gain popularity. Surging up the rankings, Japan, Vietnam, and India have emerged as some of the most-travelled destinations since 2021. Driven by culture, food, ski tourism, safety, and a favourable exchange rate, Japan has experienced the most dramatic rise, jumping from 20th in 2021–22 to fourth in 2024–25, attracting over one million Australian visitors. Vietnam has also seen remarkable growth, positioning itself as an affordable alternative to Thailand. From roughly 6,000 Australian visitors in 2021–22, the number skyrocketed to over 200,000 in 2024–25. Although Malaysia briefly overtook Vietnam in 2022–24, Vietnam reclaimed its lead by 2024–25, reflecting a developing rivalry between the two destinations. India represents the most unpredictable trajectory, dipping in and out of the top 20 before returning in 2024–25. As traveller confidence increased, many Australians chose India for its profound cultural immersion and transformative travel experiences. Australians continue to favour destinations that are familiar, affordable, and easily accessible, while rewarding countries that actively invest in tourism marketing and infrastructure. At the bottom of the rankings are countries such as Samoa, Syria, Guinea, Montenegro, Uruguay, and Zimbabwe. Political instability, limited flight connectivity, and inadequate tourism promotion pushed these countries to the bottom of the rankings. However, Uruguay and Zimbabwe have shown some improvement in recent years, climbing out of the lowest tier, suggesting signs of stabilisation. Countries that once held mid-tier positions but have since fallen into obscurity include Mexico and Peru, likely due to increased competition and a decline in their appeal to Australian travellers. Other countries such as Oman, Dominica, and Malawi have remained consistently in the lower tiers, showing minimal movement. Oman's ranking has fluctuated, particularly appearing in the bottom tier in 2021–22, disappearing entirely, then re-emerging in 2024–25. Across regions, African nations struggle due to a lack of direct flights, higher travel costs, and political instability. Latin America and the Caribbean face the challenge of long travel times and distance. Meanwhile, the Asia-Pacific's lesser-known destinations and parts of Central Asia have yet to capitalise on their transit potential and translate it into tourism demand. As a result, these regions remain anchored toward the bottom of the rankings. Now that we've entered spring, it's not too early to start planning for the travel trends of 2026. So the question is: where will you be headed next? Ready for your next getaway? Dive into Forward Travel's expert report and see which destinations are topping travellers' lists. Images: Suratman Alimuddin, RuslanKaln, Drazen Zigic, Mikolajn, Igor Kovalev, Wiley Wilkins
The laughs started with an opening monologue that had Jimmy Kimmel exclaim "Ryan, you're so hot. Let's go camping together and not tell our wives". The cheers began with Messi, the Palm Dog-winning pooch from Anatomy of a Fall, being spotted sitting in the audience. And the tears commenced not with Da'Vine Joy Randolph's Best Supporting Actress speech — where she said that she really didn't think that she was supposed to be doing this as a career, which did indeed inspire waterworks — but before that, with Lupita Nyong'o's introductory tribute to The Holdovers' actor. That's how the 96th Oscars kicked off — already five minutes over, as Kimmel noted, because Hollywood's night of nights doesn't quite believe in time — on Monday, March 11, Down Under. From there, the highlights kept coming. The Boy and the Heron winning Best Animated Feature was another big standout. So were Mstyslav Chernov wishing that he'd never had to make Best Documentary-winner 20 Days in Mariupol, which nabbed Ukraine's first Oscar; Godzilla Minus One taking out Best Visual Effects for a team who went up on the stage holding Godzilla figurines; American Fiction writer/director Cord Jefferson's plea for more support for films that don't cost $200 million when he won Best Adapted Screenplay; and Poor Things' stunning look and lead performance getting so much love. The awards' big winner: Oppenheimer as predicted, picking up seven awards. But it took until almost 90 minutes in for Christopher Nolan's J Robert Oppenheimer biopic to collect any gongs, ensuring that other movies earned recognition, too. When it was the film's time to shine, it resulted in a dedication to the peacemakers everywhere from Cillian Murphy and Robert Downey Jr thanking his terrible childhood. Yes, Barbie won best song, for 'What Was I Made For?'. Yes, Gosling's performance of 'I'm Just Ken' was a showstopper, complete with Greta Gerwig, Margot Robbie and America Ferrara singing along from the audience. And yes, everything from Wes Anderson nabbing his first-ever Oscar for The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar to starting the In Memoriam tribute with footage from Navalny also happened. Kimmel calling out the fact that Gerwig wasn't nominated, Kate McKinnon thinking that the Jurassic Park movies are documentaries, The Fall Guy's Gosling and Emily Blunt bickering while paying tribute to stunt performers, John Cena appearing almost naked, and Twins and Junior co-stars (and past Batman villains) Danny DeVito and Arnold Schwarzenegger co-presenting: that all occurred as well. That's how the ceremony panned out — with much to celebrate, plenty of banter and, as always among the films that go home empty-handed, disappointments as well. Killers of the Flower Moon, Past Lives and Perfect Days are all still excellent pictures, for instance, and can always call themselves Oscar-nominees. (It's always worth remembering that a plethora of stellar films don't even get nominations, which doesn't make them any lesser flicks, either.) Now that the Academy Awards are all done and dusted for 2024, here's the full rundown: who won and what else was in the running, that is. You can also check out what we predicted would and should win, nine winners that you can and should watch right now in Australia and New Zealand, and our full lists of where most of this year's contenders are screening or streaming in both Australia and New Zealand. Oscar Winners and Nominees 2024: Best Motion Picture American Fiction Anatomy of a Fall Barbie The Holdovers Killers of the Flower Moon Maestro Oppenheimer — WINNER Past Lives Poor Things The Zone of Interest Best Director Justine Triet, Anatomy of a Fall Martin Scorsese, Killers of the Flower Moon Christopher Nolan, Oppenheimer — WINNER Yorgos Lanthimos, Poor Things Jonathan Glazer, The Zone of Interest Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role Annette Bening, Nyad Lily Gladstone, Killers of the Flower Moon Sandra Hüller, Anatomy of a Fall Carey Mulligan, Maestro Emma Stone, Poor Things — WINNER Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role Bradley Cooper, Maestro Colman Domingo, Rustin Paul Giamatti, The Holdovers Cillian Murphy, Oppenheimer — WINNER Jeffrey Wright, American Fiction Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role Emily Blunt, Oppenheimer Danielle Brooks, The Color Purple America Ferrera, Barbie Jodie Foster, Nyad Da'Vine Joy Randolph, The Holdovers — WINNER Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role Sterling K Brown, American Fiction Robert De Niro, Killers of the Flower Moon Robert Downey Jr, Oppenheimer — WINNER Ryan Gosling, Barbie Mark Ruffalo, Poor Things Best Original Screenplay Anatomy of a Fall, Justine Triet and Arthur Harari — WINNER The Holdovers, David Hemingson Maestro, Bradley Cooper and Josh Singer May December, Samy Burch and Alex Mechanik Past Lives, Celine Song Best Adapted Screenplay American Fiction, Cord Jefferson — WINNER Barbie, Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach Oppenheimer, Christopher Nolan Poor Things, Tony McNamara The Zone of Interest, Jonathan Glazer Best International Feature Film Io Capitano, Italy Perfect Days, Japan Society of the Snow, Spain The Teachers' Lounge, Germany The Zone of Interest, United Kingdom — WINNER Best Animated Feature The Boy and the Heron — WINNER Elemental Nimona Robot Dreams Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse Best Documentary Feature Bobi Wine: The People's President The Eternal Memory Four Daughters To Kill a Tiger 20 Days in Mariupol — WINNER Best Original Score American Fiction, Laura Karpman Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, John Williams Killers of the Flower Moon, Robbie Robertson Oppenheimer, Ludwig Göransson — WINNER Poor Things, Jerskin Fendrix Best Original Song 'The Fire Inside', Flamin' Hot, Diane Warren 'I'm Just Ken', Barbie, Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt 'It Never Went Away', American Symphony, Jon Batiste and Dan Wilson 'Wahzhazhe (A Song For My People)', Killers of the Flower Moon, Scott George 'What Was I Made For?', Barbie, Billie Eilish and Finneas O'Connell — WINNER Best Cinematography El Conde, Edward Lachman Killers of the Flower Moon, Rodrigo Prieto Maestro, Matthew Libatique Oppenheimer, Hoyte van Hoytema — WINNER Poor Things, Robbie Ryan Best Film Editing Anatomy of a Fall, Laurent Sénéchal The Holdovers, Kevin Tent Killers of the Flower Moon, Thelma Schoonmaker Oppenheimer, Jennifer Lame — WINNER Poor Things, Yorgos Mavropsaridis Best Production Design Barbie Killers of the Flower Moon Napoleon Oppenheimer Poor Things — WINNER Best Visual Effects The Creator Godzilla Minus One — WINNER Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 Mission: Impossible — Dead Reckoning Part One Napoleon Best Costume Design Barbie, Jacqueline Durran Killers of the Flower Moon, Jacqueline West Napoleon, Janty Yates and Dave Crossman Oppenheimer, Ellen Mirojnick Poor Things, Holly Waddington — WINNER Best Makeup and Hairstyling Golda Maestro Oppenheimer Poor Things — WINNER Society of the Snow Best Sound The Creator Maestro Mission: Impossible — Dead Reckoning Part One Oppenheimer The Zone of Interest — WINNER Best Documentary Short Subject The ABCs of Book Banning The Barber of Little Rock Island in Between The Last Repair Shop — WINNER Nǎi Nai & Wài Pó Best Animated Short Film Letter to a Pig Ninety-Five Senses Our Uniform Pachyderme WAR IS OVER! Inspired by the Music of John & Yoko — WINNER Best Live-Action Short Film The After Invincible Knight of Fortune Red, White and Blue The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar — WINNER The 2024 Oscars will be announced on Monday, March 11, Australian and New Zealand time. For further details, head to the awards' website.
Here's a cheap way to update your wardrobe, as long as you're so fond of ALDI that you're keen to show your love via your outfit. Already a go-to for budget-friendly groceries, snow gear and whatever other specials that it can rustle up, the supermarket chain started its own streetwear collection in 2024, and that move proved a hit. Accordingly, you can now get excited about decking yourself out in the company's 2025 range. Selling clothes wasn't new for the chain when the ALDImania collection initially debuted, as everyone who regularly trawls its middle aisles will be well-aware, but this was the first time that the brand released its own ALDI threads. Those pieces sold out, so 2025's collection is even bigger. Everything still comes cheap, though, clocking in at under $20. Available from ALDI stores from Wednesday, April 9, 2025, the new range features 29 pieces. ALDI-branded hoodies, track pants, sneakers, socks and beanies are back, as are sweatshirts, t-shirts, bucket hats and caps. You can also get ALDI clogs this time around. For some items, there's also multiple colours available, with grey, back and white the 2025 lineup's base hues. Both types of shoes come in two styles, as do the t-shirts. For little ALDI fans, kids' sweatshirts and track pants are also on offer. Again made from sustainably sourced or recycled materials, the collection starts at $4.99 cost-wise, which'll get you a pair of socks. The most you'll pay is $19.99 for the sneakers. In-between those maximums and minimums, hoodies will set you back $14.99, beanies and bucket hats $7.99 each, clogs are the same price, and tees $8.99. If you'd like a compact umbrella (in three designs) or a double-walled insulated mug (in four designs), they help round out the collection. ALDI's 2025 streetwear range will hit the chain's supermarkets around Australia from Wednesday, April 9. Visit the ALDI website for more details.
Following the world-altering whirlwind that was 2020, award-winning Eau-de-Vie closed down, promising to return in the near future. While it took a little longer than expected, the sleek cocktail bar that was once 13th on the World's 50 Best Bars list has officially reopened to the public in Sydney's CBD. The Speakeasy Group (Mjølner, Nick & Nora's) and its directors Sven Almenning and Greg Sanderson have revived Eau-de-Vie at the Brookfield Place development inside the Beneficial House site at 285 George Street, joining Shell House, Romeo's, Edition Coffee, Gojima, NeNe Chicken and PappaRich in the complex. All of the class of the original Eau-de-Vie is on show at the new opening with moody lighting, a smooth jazz soundtrack, the signature Whisky Room and private whisky lockers within the building's basement. The cocktails are built to impress, starting with the Hall of Fame section of the menu featuring Almenning's signature Smoley Rob Roy which combines two types of whisky, Diplomatico Mantuan rum, sweet vermouth and orange bitters before being served under a cloud of smoke. There's also a tangy take on the Moscow mule made with yuzu curd and your choice of rare aged spirit, Eau-de-Vie's famous old fashioned served hot or ice cold, and the Espresso Zabaione which reinvents the espresso martini with cold drip coffee, maple syrup, saffron and vanilla mouse and a touch of liquid nitrogen. All of this is on just page one of the ten pages of cocktails on the menu. A considered list of snacks, both raw (oysters, tuna tartare) and cooked (lamb croquettes, wagyu beef cheek pastry) are available at Eau-de-Vie, but if you find yourself hungry, you should head upstairs to the bar's lavish sibling venue The Sanderson. Appears in: Sydney's best Underground Bars for 2023
A crusty white roll, lashings of smooth pâté, and a generous pile of fresh ingredients, pickled toppings and herbs — it's easy to see why Vietnam's gift to the sandwich world is well-appreciated here in Sydney. The humble banh mi is a lunchtime favourite that's both affordable enough and healthy enough to feel like you could scoff one — or two — every day of the week. All across the city, Vietnamese bakeries and other eateries are serving up top-notch iterations of the classic sandwich, ranging from the tried-and-true to more contemporary reworkings. Everyone has their own favourite banh mi spot in Sydney and, with so many great options tucked around the entire city, its hard to pin down the best of the best — so we've put together a list of some of our favourites to get you started. BANH MI BAY NGO, BANKSTOWN Family-owned and operated, Bay Ngo has been serving up packed-full rolls of tender pork and crisp salad to the residents of Bankstown for over thirty years. Here, the traditional banh mi thit reigns supreme, layering multiple types of pork on top of a thick spread of pate for just $6. If you're not one for red meat, you're in luck, as the fried egg banh mi is a hit with local vegetarians and a perfect breakfast sandwich if you're swinging by before work. While it may be missing the layers of pork, the fried egg sandwich still comes overflowing with all the salads, coriander and chilli needed for a truly great banh mi. Or, you can add the fried egg to a pork roll for the best of both worlds for $7.50. BOOTH STREET BAKERY, ANNANDALE The lemongrass pork banh mi at Booth Street Bakery is one of the juiciest, most satisfying meals a sandwich lover can have for under a tenner. The unassuming Vietnamese bakery does a selection of cakes, flaky throw-back desserts (think Neenish tarts and day-glow green meringue frogs) and very decent pies, but the banh mi reigns supreme here. You can go for the classic pork sausage, lemongrass pork or chicken, or really push the boat out and do roast pork with a slab of crackling. Like all of Sydney's best banh mi shops, Booth Street Bakery is a no-frills affair. But, it has spurned decor and detail for a focus on flavour. And when it comes to a meat-stuffed baguette, that's all you can really ask for. [caption id="attachment_800473" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Darlingharbour.com[/caption] MARRICKVILLE PORK ROLL, MARRICKVILLE A true Sydney stalwart, Marrickville Pork Roll has long been considered one of Sydney's best banh mi shops. It's well worth the wait in that inevitable queue, which often wraps around the block outside this hole-in-the-wall spot. Open daily from 7:30am, the shop bakes its baguettes fresh every morning. That fluffy-yet-crunchy baguette is smeared with pâté and mayo, then loaded with your choice of meat, fresh herbs, pickled veg, salad and chilli. While the traditional pork is the go-to, we rate the barbecue pork and crackling pork belly. Meatball, chicken, salad and veg varieties are also up for grabs — and all for just a few bucks ($6–8). For those closer to the CBD, Marrickville Pork Roll also has locations in Darling Square's Steam Mill Lane and along Pitt Street. TOP RYDE BAKER'S HOUSE, RYDE Make your way to Top Ryde City Shopping Centre and you'll find some of the best pork you can find stuffed into a soft white baguette in this city. Top Ryde Baker's House is known for its packed its banh mi full to the point of overflowing with an abundance of juicy pork and crispy pork crackling. Here, the banh mi is really taken to the next level, with the fresh mix of salad smothered by a mountain of meat. Despite the heaped serving sizes, the price of this Sydney banh mi remains low. The only catch? You may have to line up for a while, as the bakery is known to get busy around lunchtime. [caption id="attachment_825700" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jemsweb[/caption] HONG HA, MASCOT Hong Ha has managed to carve out a spot as one of Sydney's best banh mi joints, all thanks to the fresh and affordable rolls it's been serving up for over three decades. Situated on Botany Road in Mascot — so with multiple other Vietnamese bakeries close by — the pork roll specialist remains a go-to for locals and those travelling through the area. While a line snaking around the block isn't uncommon here, the wait is worth it for the barbecue pork variety which piles three types of pork into a crispy roll filled with plenty of fresh salad. The chicken and meatball rolls are both fan-favourites here as well but, whichever filling you end up going with, you're guaranteed a good time. VINATA'S HOT BREAD, CABRAMATTA Located in Cabramatta Plaza, Vinata's Hot Bread is one of the most beloved banh mi spots in southwest Sydney. Here, you'll pay just $5 for your classic pork variety, which comes packed into fresh-baked white bread rolls, smothered in pork pâté, and covered in salad, coriander and chill. If you feel like venturing from the tried-and-tested path, you can also opt for meatball, chicken or salad rolls — all for under $7. Plus, there's a range of bakery classics on hand such as meat pies, sausage rolls, and cheese and bacon rolls. Despite the hot competition in Cabramatta for the best banh mi, Vinata's has cemented itself as one of the area's standouts. ALEX 'N' ROLLS, MARRICKVILLE Challenging Marrickville Pork Roll for best banh mi in the inner west is Alex 'N' Rolls. This is an unassuming hole-in-the-wall sandwich spot on Illawarra Road — it operates from inside an inner west townhouse — but the rolls here pack a punch. You can choose between barbecue, caramelised or traditional slow-cooked pulled pork, each packed into a bun with chicken pâté, mayonnaise, picked carrot, radish and a heaping of salad. The rolls have a good amount of crunch, and the pork is packed with flavour. If you're feeling more like chicken, Alex 'N' Rolls has you covered as well. Plus, there are a heap of vegetarian banh mi on offer if you're tired of the tried-and-true salad roll. BOON TABLE, SYDNEY Hidden in a food court in the lower floor of The Galleries, next-level takeaway outpost Boon Table opened in 2019. The majority of its menu is made up of tasty and health-conscious bowls — think: miso salmon, kale and broccoli, plus karaage chicken, red cabbage and spicy mayo. The real big hitters on the menu, however, are the 'Boon Mi', Boon Table's take on the classic Vietnamese roll. While they're slightly pricier than your local pork roll joint at between $10.90–12.90, these banh mi are packed into a soft and sweet brown roll, providing a unique experience. There are four options here, including the classic pork, plus crispy pork belly, grilled chicken and tofu. And, they all come equipped with all the fresh salads and pickled vegetables you'd expect as well as mayo, pâté and seasoning sauce. KING'S HOT BREAD, HURSTVILLE Open 6am–6pm daily, King's Hot Bread has been a Hurstville mainstay since 1995. The Forrest Road spot specialises in banh mi, with a huge range of options to be found here. If you're in the mood for pork, you can choose between classic pork, pork crackling, roasted pork or sausage. Chicken, seafood and vegetarian rolls are all on offer too, with some of the more out-there options including stay prawn, chicken and dim sim, and egg salad rolls. All the banh mi sit between $7 and $10.50, price-wise, with crunchy chicken wings and spring rolls available if a heaped baguette isn't enough to satisfy your hunger. Swing by to pick up some lunch, or you can also order via UberEats and Menulog. SUNNY VI HUONG HOT BREAD, GLADESVILLE The unassuming Sunny Hot Bread sits next to a Persian rug store on Victoria Road, providing the perfect pit stop if you're driving between the west and inner city. It's easy to miss on the busy main road, but nab a park nearby and it'll be worth your while. The Gladesville bakery doesn't deviate too far from your classic selection of rolls, with the classic pork, chicken and salad rolls all on offer for between $4.50 and $7. The surprise highlight of the menu is the chicken schnitzel roll, which comes heaped with salad, crispy pieces of golden brown schnitzel and just the right amount of chilli. The typical range of bread, cakes and pastries are all on offer alongside the banh mi selection as well. GREAT AUNTY THREE, ENMORE When Michael Le was a child, his grandmother would often serve caramelised pork belly with rice on the family dinner table. Le now does a revised version of this dish in the form of a Vietnamese pork roll in his restaurant, Great Aunty Three. The caramelised pork roll captures the essence of what Le and his wife Mai are trying to achieve: fresh, authentic, quality Vietnamese street food. The pork, slow-cooked in coconut juice for up to five hours, is tender and juicy, combined with fresh vegetables in a crusty Vietnamese roll. The rolls are a bit different here, with apple pieces and big chucks of crunchy salty pork crackling stuffed inside. You can also venture into more adventurous territory with roast pork and duck rolls. Best of all, you don't even have to get up from your couch to order from Great Aunty Three, with the Enmore Road eatery available on UberEats and Menulog — although the takeaway menu does vary.
When Lorde announced that she'd be bringing her Ultrasound world tour to Australia in 2026, Sydneysiders and Melburnians embraced the green light to buy presale tickets. In fact, the demand for the Aotearoan star's Qudos Bank Arena and Rod Laver Arena gigs has been so huge that new shows in both cities have already been announced — before general tickets to the originally locked-in concerts even go on sale. In February 2026, the 'Royals', 'Solar Power' and 'What Was That' singer-songwriter will hit the stage across both Australia and New Zealand, making dates with arenas at every stop across a six-city run. Sydney and Melbourne are now hosting not one gig apiece, but two. Ella Yelich-O'Connor is playing the Harbour City on Wednesday, February 18 and again on Thursday, February 19, then the Victorian capital on Saturday, February 21 as well as Sunday, February 22. These are the final Sydney and Melbourne dates that'll be added to the tour. [caption id="attachment_1012905" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Joseph Okpako/WireImage[/caption] Lorde last took her Solar Power tour to Australia in 2023. Her new series of concerts begins in September 2025 in the US — and also includes gigs in Canada, the UK and across Europe before this year is out. When the initial Australian and NZ dates were revealed, they came fresh from Yelich-O'Connor's surprise 2025 Glastonbury set, as well as her fourth album Virgin releasing at the end of June. The latter debuted at number one in Australia and New Zealand alike. This is Lorde's biggest tour of her career in general, too, with nights at the likes of Madison Square Garden in New York City and O2 Arena in London already sold out. [caption id="attachment_1012901" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Thistle Brown[/caption] Featuring the aforementioned 'What Was That' — her first original new track in four years — alongside 'Man of the Year', 'Hammer', 'Favourite Daughter' and 'Shapeshifter', Virgin also hit number one in the UK and number two on the Billboard 200 chart in the US. There might be a three-year gap between Lorde's last Down Under shows and her upcoming Ultrasound tour concerts; however, in addition to writing and recording Virgin, she's been busy making a surprise Sydney club appearance back in May 2025 at a Lorde-themed night. Since 2013, when her debut record Pure Heroine arrived, Yelich-O'Connor has also released 2017's Melodrama and 2021's Solar Power, won two Grammys, picked up a Golden Globe nomination for 'Yellow Flicker Beat' from the soundtrack for The Hunger Games: Mockingjay — Part 1 and notched up over 18 billion streams worldwide. [caption id="attachment_1012904" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Joseph Okpako/WireImage[/caption] Lorde Ultrasound World Tour 2026 Australian Dates Monday, February 16 — Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Brisbane Wednesday, February 18–Thursday, February 19 — Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney Saturday, February 21–Sunday, February 22 — Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne Wednesday, February 25 — Perth Arena, Perth Lorde is touring Australia and New Zealand in February 2026, with ticket presales for the new shows from 2pm local time on Thursday, July 17, 2025 and general sales for all shows from 2pm on Friday, July 18, 2025 — head to the tour website for more details. Top image: Thistle Brown.
First, Melbourne Museum became the top spot right now, in this very galaxy, to see Star Wars come to life via Lego. Thanks to the world-premiering Lego Star Wars: The Exhibition, it's the only place to see life-sized recreations of the space saga's locations, characters, duels and moments as made out of eight-million-plus plastic bricks, in fact. Next, the same venue in the Victorian capital is welcoming another Australian debut: the nation's first-ever Star Wars cafe. Blue milk is definitely on offer, because it wouldn't be a Star Wars-themed spot for a snack and a sip without it. That's the only menu item that's been revealed so far. The full range will feature other dishes and selections inspired by the franchise, however — but it hasn't yet been confirmed if green milk, fruit platters, fish eggs or purple juice will be among them. While Lego Star Wars: The Exhibition opened on the appropriate date — May the fourth, of course — the Star Wars Galactic Cafe is launching on Saturday, June 7, 2025. The pop-up also promises an immersive eating and drinking experience beyond what you're consuming, taking you to a Corellian Star Cruiser to get feasting, as part of an Australian-first collaboration between Museums Victoria, Disney and Lucasfilm. "The Star Wars Galactic Cafe showcases Museums Victoria's expertise in creating rich, sensory experiences — taking visitors on a deliciously immersive, intergalactic journey. Combining world-class hospitality with the timeless appeal of the Star Wars galaxy, the Star Wars Galactic Cafe offers Melbourne Museum's visitors yet another way to engage with this premier exhibition, in a cosmically cool atmosphere," said Museums Victoria Chief Executive Officer and Director Lynley Crosswell. As for the Aussie-exclusive exhibition, aka the largest collection of life-sized Lego Star Wars models ever assembled and the biggest touring Lego showcase ever, the force is strong with this one — the Lego-building force, that is. The Millennium Falcon, Emperor Palpatine's throne flanked by two Royal Guards, a stormtrooper helmet, Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader facing off, and the Mandalorian and Moff Gideon: they're all featured. Lego Star Wars: The Exhibition hails from Ryan McNaught aka Brickman, who has indeed been spending time turning plastic rectangles, squares and other shapes into a recreation of the smash-hit franchise that's been soaring across screens big and small — and beyond — for almost five decades now. To build, the showcase took more than 25,000 hours at McNaught's headquarters in Tullamarine. The Star Wars Galactic Cafe opens on Saturday, June 7, 2025 at Melbourne Museum, 11 Nicholson Street, Carlton. Head to the museum's website for bookings and more details. Lego Star Wars: The Exhibition runs from Sunday, May 4, 2025–Monday, January 26, 2026 at Melbourne Museum, 11 Nicholson Street, Carlton. Head to the exhibition's website for tickets and more details. Exhibition images: Eugene Hyland, Museums Victoria / The Brickman.
Four decades back, concert film history was made. In December 1983, David Byrne walked out onto a Hollywood stage with a tape deck, pressed play and, while standing there solo, began to sing 'Psycho Killer'. Then-future The Silence of the Lambs Oscar-winner Jonathan Demme directed cameras towards the legendary Talking Heads' frontman, recording the results for Stop Making Sense. The best way to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the event behind the greatest concert film ever made arrived in 2024, and in cinemas. That'd be watching it on the big screen, of course, with cult-favourite independent film and TV company A24 — and Madman Down Under — releasing a complete restoration of Stop Making Sense. What's the second-best way to celebrate the occasion and the movie? Catching that new 4K version at home now that it's on Madman's documentary streaming service DocPlay from Thursday, June 13. Wearing big suits is optional. Now able to burn down your house — not literally, naturally — the 4K restoration premiered at last year's Toronto International Film Festival, and also had a date with SXSW Sydney's Screen Festival in 2023. So, no it isn't the same as it ever was: Stop Making Sense is now even better. The film isn't just iconic for how it starts, which definitely isn't how concerts usually kick off. From there, as captured at Hollywood's Pantages Theatre in December 1983, David Byrne, Tina Weymouth, Chris Frantz and Jerry Harrison put on one helluva show in support of their previous year's album Speaking in Tongues. Expect a lineup of hits, a playful approach, Byrne's famous oversized attire and even heftier stage presence, and the feeling that you're virtually in the room. Indeed, everything about this energetic and precisely executed documentary, which records the set from start to finish, couldn't be further from the standard concert flick. As 'Once in a Lifetime', 'Heaven', 'Burning Down the House', Life During Wartime', 'This Must Be the Place (Naive Melody)', 'Genius of Love' and more get a whirl, each element of the movie is that fine-tuned, and every aspect of the band's performance, too. And if it feels like Byrne was on-screen not that long ago, that's because his Spike Lee (Da 5 Bloods)-directed solo concert flick American Utopia did the rounds of Aussie cinemas back in 2020 — and proved one of that year's absolute best films. Check out the trailer for Stop Making Sense's 4K restoration below: Stop Making Sense is available to stream via DocPlay from Thursday, June 13, 2024. Images: Jordan Cronenweth, Courtesy of A24.
Redfern hotel Woolpack Hotel is a local favourite for its craft brews and creative pub fare. On its taps, you'll find top-notch Aussie craft beers from the likes of Moon Dog, Colonial, Akasha and Moo Brew. For eats, there's plenty of classic pub grub like fish 'n' chips, schnitties and parmas, plus osso bucco, jalapeño chicken burgers and sticky date pudding. Every Tuesday, Woolpack's chefs whip up homestyle feasts for $26, With it, you'll get you a house wine or craft beer and a meal — think jerk chicken maryland with slaw, roast potatoes and grilled corn, or vegan eggplant pepperonata with cauliflower bechamel and couscous. Images: Cassandra Hannagan
From 2025, what will Burleigh Heads have in common with Los Angeles, New York, Cannes, Bordeaux, Ibiza, Singapore, Seoul and Hong Kong? As Miami, Doha and Mexico City boast, too, it'll become home to a Mondrian hotel. Alongside fellow upcoming openings in Tulum and Dubai, the LA-born chain is launching its first-ever Australian outpost, heading to a breezy patch of the Gold Coast. For vacationers, the brand's debut Aussie site will feature 208 hotel rooms — some suites, some studios, some two- and three-bedroom beach houses. Also available for travellers: the venue's Sky House at its apex. Mondrian Gold Coast will also include residential apartments, however, if you're cashed up and looking for luxe new digs. Mondrian calls its hotels creative hives — and values its guests not just swanning in and feeling like they could be anywhere in the world, but becoming immersed in their surroundings. The 24-floor Burleigh Heads address will boast views that do plenty of heavy lifting in that regard; if you're not peering at the pine tree-lined beach, you'll have hinterland vistas. "Australia has long been a strategic focus for Mondrian's growth, and the Gold Coast was a focal point thanks to its phenomenal natural setting, rich cultural landscape and vibrant social scene," said Mondrian Hotels & Residences's Brand Chief Operating Officer Chadi Farhat. "Over the last couple of years, we have seen a rising demand for lifestyle brands, where locals and international guests are looking for authentic, creative and immersive experiences — all the hallmarks of the Mondrian brand. It felt a natural choice to bring Mondrian to the Gold Coast and we believe it will resonate strongly with the local market and lend something entirely new to the hospitality space," Farhat continued. Art, architecture, design and culture are also at the forefront of the chain's approach, with Mondrian Gold Coast skewing sleek courtesy of Australian architects Fraser & Partners and Studio Carter — the latter taking cues from the sand and pandanus shrubs for the hotel's textures and tones. Architecture and design practice Alexander &Co joins in with the as-yet-unnamed ground-floor restaurant, which will be just one of the location's spots to eat. Here, think: a space that sprawls both inside and out, complete with a sunny terrace. Up on the third floor, visitors will be able to eat with a vantage over the ocean, or enjoy kicking back at the hotel's pool club. While there's no menu details as yet, local produce will take the spotlight on the menus across the site. And for relaxing, the hotel will also feature a wellness space and sp. For partying, there'll be an events space as well. Find Mondrian Gold Coast at Burleigh Heads, Queensland, from sometime in 2025 — and head to the hotel's website for more information.
Before Snow Machine became everyone's excuse to hit up Queenstown for a stint of music and skiing, the festival launched its mix of tunes in wintry climes in Japan. That was back in 2020 and it hasn't been back there since — until 2024 rolls around. Although Snow Machine Queenstown is still to come for 2023, Snow Machine Japan has locked in its return for Monday, February 26–Saturday, March 2 in Hakuba. On the just-dropped bill: everyone from Diplo and Marc Rebillet to Bob Moses and Todd Terje, plus Japanese talents Risa Taniguchi, Satoshi Tomiie and Shinichi Osawa. Snow Machine Japan might return when summer will be shifting into autumn Down Under, but it's one helluva excuse for a frosty holiday during the northern hemisphere's winter — and Japan's snow season. No matter where it's taking place, this is the hottest festival for the colder months, packed with a snow-filled week of music and adventure. Attendees will be treated to action-packed days on the slopes, après ski events, and a hefty roster of international acts against an idyllic backdrop. And, because this is Japan, onsen trips, sake aplenty and yakitori bites are also on offer. Other than the wintry setting, one of the things that sets Snow Machine apart from other music fests is being able to book your entire getaway with your ticket. Packages span five or seven nights of accommodation, and include a festival ticket across the entire event, plus a four-day lift pass for Goryu & Hakuba 47, Tsugaike, Iwatake and Happo One. A word of warning: unsurprisingly, the packages are popular. Although the Snow Machine Japan 2024 lineup has only just been announced, packages are already 85-percent sold out. If you're keen to take care of your own place to slumber and just nab a festival ticket, that's an option as well. Lift passes, rentals, lessons and activities can be then booked on top at additional cost, and you can opt for VIP access including heating and seating while you party if you're feeling particularly cashed up. SNOW MACHINE JAPAN 2024 LINEUP: Bob Moses (club set) Busy P Claptone Denis Sulta Diplo Ewan McVica George Fitzgerald (DJ set) GG Magree Marc Rebillet Nina Kraviz Risa Taniguchi Satoshi Tomiie Shinichi Osawa Todd Terje (DJ set) Reuben Styles and Danny Clayton present First Base Snow Machine Japan 2024 will be held from Monday, February 26–Saturday, March 2 in Hakuba. Presale tickets go on sale from 12pm AEST on Thursday, August 3, with general tickets available from 12pm AEST on Friday, August 4. For more information, visit the festival's website. Images: Pat Stevenson. Feeling inspired to book a getaway? You can now book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations all around the world.
When you're doing an office coffee run in Sydney CBD, it's widely expected that you'll do what it takes to get the best cup possible. Whether it's hoofing it an extra block, up a hill or through construction — no obstacle is too great when it comes to snagging the best coffee in Sydney. Luckily, our fine city centre is dotted with roasters and cafes turning great single-origin and house blends into espresso, filter and cold brew coffees — you just need to know where to find them. So here we give you the best coffee shops in Sydney. Seek them out and you'll be rewarded with both taste and gratitude from your caffeine-hungry co-workers. Recommended reads: The Best Cafes in Sydney The Best Bakeries in Sydney The Best Bagels in Sydney The Best Breakfast in Sydney
There once was a time when Sydney's luxury hotels wouldn't even entertain the idea of letting your pets stay the night. But the winds of change have been blowing strong these past few years, resulting in countless dog-friendly hotels popping up all over the city. And the latest addition to this growing group of accommodations is the Four Seasons Hotel Sydney — bring on the pet puns. Their new Pet Paw-fection package includes putting you and your pooch up in rooms made specifically for your needs. Each fur-tunate pup gets its own plush bedding, dog toys, bath amenities, outdoor water bowls and specialty treats — Bone Appetit. They've also partnered with Outback Tails, a family-run company who partner with Indigenous art centres to create specially-designed dog beds, in order to provide an extra special space for your doggo to rest their head. The concierge is also brimming with knowledge about Sydney's best dog-friendly places and activities. They'll direct your pooch and you all around the city. You can check out the best dog-friendly parks, cafes and bars with your four-legged friend. But if you need a break from the little one, these guys will even organise a dog-sitter for you and take them out for walks. Just be sure to book ahead of time — perhaps timed so you can relax at the hotel's in-house spa, treating yourself to a cheeky massage or facial. The Four Seasons' Pet Paw-fection package is also available all year round, so you won't have to deal with those sad puppy eyes every time you run away on holiday. No need for begging friends to take your dog for the weekend, or to send your pup away to a kennel either. But do note that, if you're thinking of planning an indulgent getaway with your pooch, you'll need to make sure your four-legged pal weighs less than 11.5 kilograms. For more information about Four Seasons Hotel Sydney's Pet Paw-fection packages — and to book a stay — visit the Four Seasons website.
In the lead-up to new Hollywood-set satire The Studio premiering its first season on Apple TV+, the streaming platform kept doing something that's a well-established element of the entertainment industry: name-dropping. This is the latest project from long-time collaborators Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg after Superbad, Pineapple Express, This Is the End, Bad Neighbours and its sequel, The Interview, The Night Before and plenty more, with the pair co-creating, co-writing, co-directing and executive producing the series. Rogen (Mufasa: The Lion King) stars, with Catherine O'Hara (The Wild Robot), Ike Barinholtz (Curb Your Enthusiasm), Kathryn Hahn (Agatha All Along) and Chase Sui Wonders (City on Fire) rounding out the main cast. That's a starry group already. Across two trailers, however, a heap of guest parts and cameos were revealed — including for Bryan Cranston (Argylle), Zoë Kravitz (Blink Twice), Paul Dano (Fantasmas), Olivia Wilde (Don't Worry Darling), Charlize Theron (Fast X), Anthony Mackie (Captain America: Brave New World), Zac Efron (A Family Affair), Sarah Polley (Women Talking) Greta Lee (Past Lives), Ice Cube (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem), Rebecca Hall (Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire), Adam Scott (Severance), Ron Howard (Jim Henson Idea Man) and Martin Scorsese (Killers of the Flower Moon). A few days before the show's Wednesday, March 26, 2025 debut Down Under, the full list of well-known talents appearing on-screen arrived. Dave Franco (Love Lies Bleeding), Jean Smart (Hacks), Johnny Knoxville (The Luckiest Man in America), Josh Hutcherson (The Beekeeper), Quinta Brunson (Abbott Elementary), Ramy Youssef (Poor Things), Steve Buscemi (Transformers One), Zack Snyder (Rebel Moon), Aaron Sorkin (Being the Ricardos) and Parker Finn (Smile and Smile 2) are among them, too. It's clear through the roster of names, in The Studio's ten-part initial season itself, and from talking with a number of the show's cast and guiding forces: this is a series with the utmost of love for the art of making pictures, even as it savvily pokes fun at the whole business around movies. The task that Rogen and Goldberg have set themselves, and achieve winningly, is anchoring the act of parodying Tinseltown with details drawn from real-life experiences, assistance from that enviable lineup of Hollywood folks joining in and a celebratory insider spirit. Rogen plays Matt Remick, a film executive who has only ever wanted one job: to run the fictional Continental Studios. It doesn't take long for that dream to come true, or for the character to realise what being a studio head truly means. "I got into this because I love movies. But now I have this fear that my job is to ruin them," he tells his mentor and predecessor Patty Leigh (O'Hara). That line is indicative of The Studio's knack for turning reality into astute, acerbic but affectionate viewing — Rogen and Goldberg once heard it themselves, uttered by an IRL executive. "They're all really close to our experience in some way, shape or form," James Weaver — who co-runs Point Grey Pictures, the production company behind The Studio, with Rogen and Goldberg — tells Concrete Playground about the link between the series' characters and scenarios and actuality. That said, the team's own interactions across their careers were just the beginning. "We met with a lot of people in the industry who are friends of ours, who had run studios, et cetera, and tried to mine their experience for when we're not around. What do they say behind closed doors? And so I think we tried to have an understanding of what those conversations were like." Personal inspiration remains key across the show, though. "Giving a note to a filmmaker that you really respect, and a note that you know is not going to be popular, is something we've definitely had to do," Weaver continues. That 'been there, felt that' vibe is also crucial to the search for validation at the heart of The Studio. Everyone wants it, executives and megastars alike, whether by getting a gig, having their ideas heard, making a hit, leaving a legacy, winning awards, being thanked in public or being seen to have a worthy job. "Wanting to be thanked at an award show because that's the only evidence that you did anything on it is something that we've seen as well," Weaver advises. "I think we're hoping that that's coming through, that the authenticity of our experience is in the show, and that's partially, I think, what people seem to be liking." In Matt's Continental team, three fellow studio employees are rarely far from his side: Barinholtz's Sal Seperstein, another seasoned executive; Hahn's Maya Mason, the company's marketing head; and Wonders' Quinn Hackett, an up-and-comer. From their respective time in the business, each is familiar with the types of characters that they're portraying — and that knowledge played a part in their performances, sometimes directly and sometimes in a more general sense. "A lot of studio executives I've worked with over the years, some great, some not so great, but I pulled little moments from a lot of them and put them into Sal," Barinholtz notes. "I have not one specific person. What they wrote was what I basically followed. But as I was putting the costumes on, there's definitely some humans, one could say," Hahn says. For Wonders, "my best friend is an assistant to a director, and she is someone who's very precocious, very ready to take over the world, but definitely has to earn her stripes and bide her time, and I think lots of young, ambitious people can relate to that. So that's one person I had in mind." As Continental's execs weather everything from endeavouring to capitalise upon the intellectual property-driven movie trend by making a Kool-Aid flick to attempting to capture an expensive golden-hour one-take shot — plus missing footage, casting conundrums, trailer scandals, the Golden Globes and annual US movie theatre-owner convention CinemaCon — chaos is their baseline. Still, Wonders also sees the series as having "a big sense that if you love what you do and you do it with integrity, as sappy as that is, there is going to be something in it for you, some sort of goodwill that comes your way. I feel like these characters find they have sad lives where they just are so dedicated to this one thing, and at the end of the day they kind of find their family. So that's a nice universal message". [caption id="attachment_997078" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Photo by Eric Charbonneau/Apple TV+ via Getty Images.[/caption] And that oner? It isn't just a focus of a storyline within the show; long takes are also part of its own style. "It felt like every scene was a play, like you're doing a different play every scene — and just once you got dialled in, once we rehearsed and you knew what you were doing, it was really exhilarating to be in that zone," Barinholtz shares. "It's definitely more challenging, but then it's amazing how much you can accomplish," adds Hahn. "There's something heightened about doing it as a oner that I really, really love." We also chatted with Goldberg, Weaver, Barinholtz, Hahn and Wonders about the love that's baked into The Studio, that search for recognition that drives its characters, ensuring that the series is relatable far beyond Hollywood insiders, its visual approach, those cameos and more — including how Barinholtz and Hahn's past TV comedy roles on recent greats such as The Mindy Project, Parks and Recreation and The Afterparty came in handy. On How Everything in the Series, Jokes and Cameos Included, Filters Through the Show's Love for the Film Industry James: "At the beginning of the show, we really knew that this was going to be about having a show about how we love making movies. So I think it comes through the lens of that, everything that happens. So in terms of making jokes about A24 or some of the other companies that are in there, we've made movies with A24. They're great people. They do incredible work. And so I think the entire show is about our experience in Hollywood for the last 15 years, and I think we're trying to bring some truth and some sense of 'this is how it is', but also all through the lens of humour and fun. As far as the cameos, each of them came about in different ways. Some of them are people we've worked with in the past. Some people like Martin Scorsese or Zoë Kravitz, we met for the first time — and either through the script that Seth and Evan had written or through meetings, we talked to them about how we wanted to portray them in the show. And they were really excited and game. There is a history, whether it be The Player or The Larry Sanders Show, of Hollywood satirising itself. And so that was something that people understood, what we were going for, and people were really trusting and excited to be there. I think that we're not necessarily worried that people are going to see the show as some sort of takedown of Hollywood, because we love Hollywood and we love the fact that we get to make movies. It really is more of a presentation of our experience through the comedic lens than it is any takedown of the industry." On Barinholtz, Hahn and Wonders' First Impressions When The Studio Came Their Way Kathryn: "I mean, just to hear that these humans were involved. And I've never really worked with Seth and Evan together. And just the writing of it was just hilarious. And to think of these humans in those parts was really exciting. I couldn't wait to jump in." Chase: "They're telling very risky jokes, and I remember reading them on the page and thinking 'this is something I've heard behind closed doors, but never on television for all eternity'. So it's always good when you feel like you're doing something that's pushing boundaries." Ike: "I remember Seth called me and said 'hey, we're writing ...'. And I said 'I'm in'. And he said 'it's a show about Hollywood'. I said 'I'm in'. And he said 'Catherine O'Hara is going to be in it'. I said 'I'm in. I'm already in.'. It was the world's easiest 'yes'. It was just literally the world and the writing, and having them and Catherine — and Bryan Cranston, who is in really good physical shape. Beautiful body. It was the world's fastest and easiest 'yes'." On the Search for Validation That's at the Heart of the Show Evan: "I would say the nice thing about that element of the series is we set out not to make an aspirational version of Hollywood, but to make a real version of Hollywood. And that is the real version of Hollywood. People are very cynical and all that in the world today, but Hollywood is mostly people who are wildly passionate, care deeply and would rather do this than anything else in the world — no matter how high or low they are on the totem pole of success. People just are passionate in a way that most industries aren't. And so we get to tap into those hopes and dreams in making the show, merely by trying to replicate the real experiences we've had. And, of course, it doesn't always work out for people, and sometimes it does and sometimes it doesn't, but the passion is the thing that bleeds through it all." On the Importance of Balancing Satire and Affection for the Cast — and the Fact That The Studio Takes the Art of Filmmaking Very Seriously Chase: "I think it's important. And one thing Seth and Evan really tried to hit is the realism of the comedy, and comedy born of situations where people are just trying their hardest and it's just these doofuses who can't quite get it right. It also helps when our production design is impeccable, the way we filmed it is so high-level and it just naturally lends itself to a more elevated, smart type of comedy than just a slapstick sort of thing." Kathryn: "Because everything is so elevated, you really feel a certain responsibility to uphold the world around you and the filmmaking around you. And there is less opportunity for hamming around. So everything feels very focused in a way that keeps the energy legit and high and focused." Ike: "Could not say it better than they just did, so I won't." [caption id="attachment_997090" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Photo by Eric Charbonneau/Apple TV+ via Getty Images.[/caption] On How Barinholtz and Hahn's Past Work on Fellow TV Comedies Such as The Mindy Project, Parks and Recreation and The Afterparty Helped Them on the Path to The Studio Kathryn: "All good ensembles." Ike: "Yes, yes." Kathryn: "Great ensembles." Ike: "Great showrunners." Kathryn: "Yes." Ike: "Great writing." Kathryn: "Great writing." Ike: "We're lucky to have been through a lot of those and seen how they all work. And this was different than all those, just because they went about it a different way. But I think you learn every time you do a show, every time you do an episode of a show or whatever, you learn something, you learn a new trick. So it definitely makes it easier." On the Elements of the Series That Most Felt Real for the Cast and Crew James: "It all feels real to us. I mean, I think we day to day are in these conversations about what kind thing to get behind in terms of a movie or TV show — or who's a filmmaker or a performer that we really believe in. Then we have to have those conversations about 'how is this thing going to make people money?'. It's really this idea of art versus commerce that I think is at the centre of what the show is. But as Evan was just saying, I think then you put overlay that with characters who care deeply about doing something artistic, but also care deeply about not getting fired. And so I think those two ideas are butting up against each other at all times. And that feels very real. The executives that we've been working with for 15 years are friends of ours. We've watched them get married to each other and there's a lot of like, a lot of community, in terms of the people that this show is portraying. And so it all feels very real to us when it goes through that lens. Seth and Evan are also just very, very funny people. So when it comes to making the jokes and the scenarios out of the real thing, they're just very talented at making that funny and entertaining. But it comes from a real place, and I think that's why hopefully people like respond to the show." Ike: "I'm friends with a lot of people who are studio executives, and I think they like to drink a lot. And so I stole that, and I drink a lot in the show. In real life, moderation — but in the show, I have a problem." Kathryn: "Always moderation." Ike: "Always moderation. That's the takeaway." Chase: "I think also studio execs are people who wield a lot of power, but when they're put in front of actors, who are these big personalities, they can be very shy and kind of cower away. And that's something that's both really fun to play the comedy of and also show the humanity of these characters." Ike: "That's a good answer." Kathryn: "I definitely have been in things in which I've seen the mockups for the posters or the possible trailers, and clearly no one has seen the show or the movie. They're so wildly not what the movie's about." Ike: "Yes, yes, yes." On Making the Series Relatable Outside of Hollywood Ike: "I think that the guys, Seth and Evan, did a very good job — even though the show is undeniably set in this world of movies and studios and executives, I think a lot of the situations in each of these episodes are things that everyone has dealt with. We've all had a boss who's gotten too drunk. We've all wanted credit for something and we are afraid we're not going to get credit for it. We've all been jealous of a coworker at some point. So I think a lot of the themes that they deal with in the episodes are universal, and whether you are someone who works in entertainment or around entertainment, or you have nothing to do with entertainment, you'll recognise a lot of those themes and scenarios, and hopefully they'll make you laugh." Kathryn: "Chances are people watch entertainment, so they'll get an idea of what the situations are. But also it's made with love, and so I think that's a different thing, too. There's such care for these characters and there's such love for this business of making movies, and nobody's really tearing down anybody. And I think that that also feels fun for an audience, too." On the Visual Approach When You're Making a TV Series About Filmmaking Evan: "For our show, the method we filmed it came from two different sources. One was, directorially Seth and I have done a lot of improv comedy feature films where we do a wide shot, medium and we get cross coverage of closeups, and then in editing we mess with all the improv we did. And we just wanted to do something very different, so we thought long extended takes would be a great way to do that and to make it more directorial as opposed to written and edited. Then through that conversation, we talked about how it could impact the actual storytelling — and the thing we wanted to embrace was the panic that a lot of these people experience in these jobs. These studio heads, even though they're very powerful and very passionate and very intelligent, they're often panicking because they can just lose their job for one big disaster. One flop and their whole job, maybe even their career, could be done or messed up for a long time. So we thought it would good to anchor people in that mania, and in that intensity, and let them feel the panic — and the best way to do that is make it feel like you are a person, like you are the cameraman, like there's an individual there. So we used one lens with long takes, and it whips back and forth just like your own head would if you were in that room experiencing the scenario that our characters are." On Working with Seth Rogen in His Many Roles on the Series: Star, Co-Creator, Co-Director, Co-Writer and Executive Producer Ike: "Oh man, I'd worked with him a couple times but never as a director. And he's really incredible, I think, at acting and being present in the scene — but he's watching everything. So if there's a slight little problem in a take, if the camera operator accidentally bumps into someone and the camera shakes for half a second, Seth has seen it. And he will just start laughing and go 'let's go again'. But he's just very tuned in. I'm very impressed at how much. You would think, that for who he is and what he ingests, he would be just not — but he is so freaking tuned in. And he's also just an incredibly good-natured guy. I think a lot of times, if something goes wrong, I've seen directors or producers blow their stack and get mad — and I don't know, it's just they're nice Canadian boys who just don't get that upset." [caption id="attachment_997093" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Photo by Eric Charbonneau/Apple TV+ via Getty Images.[/caption] Chase: "Doesn't yell, doesn't get mad." Ike: "They don't yell." Kathryn: "You could see sometimes when you screwed up and you're trying to find a word, and then you see him, you see him basically shake his head and look at you." Chase: "Yeah, yeah, yeah." Kathryn: "And you're like 'well, save me'." On the Securing The Studio's Many, Many Cameos James: "Martin Scorsese was someone that we all admire and never thought we would have a chance to meet. Seth and Evan wrote a script with him as that character, and we sent it to him and he read it, and he was like 'yeah, I'd love to do it'. And then all of our heads exploded, basically. But then people like Charlize Theron or Zac Efron, they're all people that we have worked with in the past, so they were people that we could talk to directly and say 'hey, we have this idea for a character for you in our show'. And then there were some new people we got to meet, like Zoë Kravitz or Olivia Wilde. They were characters that we wrote for the show, and we just had to meet with them and get their ideas on that character. Seth and Evan were on a lot of zooms with each of them before they signed on. But it was nice, because I think once Martin Scorsese said yes, there were several phone calls that I started with 'so Martin Scorsese's doing the show — so can you do the show?'. And that was really nice, because people would generally say 'yeah, sure'." The Studio streams via Apple TV+.
In 2023, the Darling Harbour outpost of global hotel chain Sofitel (that also made our list of the best hotels in Sydney) unveiled its lavish new two-storey spa, delivering a fresh dose of relaxation high among the Sydney skyline. Joining the Harbour City's existing impressive supply of luxe spa experiences, and pairing its relaxation experiences with sweeping water views, the Sofitel SPA Darling Harbour offers an array of facilities and wellness journeys — all housed within a "quintessentially Sydney" space. Soft timbers, sandstone and marble finishes welcome guests into the latest addition to Sydney's wellness scene, which boasts seven roomy treatment spaces. Also on offer: a bespoke standalone bathtub with harbour views, an infrared sauna, a meditation zone and a contemplation deck sitting on level four of the hotel. While traditional experiences like massages, facials, body wraps and exfoliation are all available, the flagship offerings from the spa are its package deals — or wellness journeys. Take the signature half-day journey, for example, and you'll combine exercise, nutrition, treatment and introspection, getting a holistic experience that's meant to leave guests refreshed head-to-toe. French beauty brand Biologique Recherche and fast-rising Australian company Waterlily have been enlisted to provide the spa with its cosmetic treatment products, each of which will be personalised to every guest's needs. Plus, the spa sits alongside the hotel's previously opened level-four infinity pool. The swimming spot is heated year-round and offers guests the ability to enjoy a dip while soaking in panoramic views of Darling Harbour and the Sydney CBD skyline. Images: Anna Kucera
Following successful markets in other suburbs, Cambridge Markets is back at it again with new markets in Wentworth Point. This iteration will take place on the third Sunday of every month at Marina Square on Wentworth Place, just across the water from Ryde Wharf Market. Like its sister markets, punters can peruse 60 stalls showcasing a range of Sydney's favourite homegrown creatives and makers, with a mix of fresh fruit and veggies, flowers, gourmet produce, pantry items and locally designed homewares, apparel and gifts. There'll also be plenty of hot food options for yourself and your family. But that's not all — the intrepid marketers are hosting a twilight gourmet market on the first Fridays of warmer months, dubbed Eat Drink Nights, at the same location. This night-time epicurean escape features international cuisine, tasty beverages and fun activities for the whole family. The next Eat Drink Night will take place on Friday, March 1, followed by Friday, April 5, before the events return on Friday, September 6. Not only is it a picturesque spot to while away a Sunday morning or Friday evening, but it's easy to get to, too. Marina Square is accessible by ferry, train or bus, with ample parking within a short stroll. Wentworth Point Market takes place at Marina Square, Wentworth Place, from 9am–2pm on the third Sunday of every month. Eat Drink Nights at Wentworth Point takes place at Marina Square, Wentworth Place, from 5pm–9.30pm on the first Friday of the month. For more info, head to the website. Images: Jessica Nash Photography
After closing its doors in 2016, Sydney's Theatre Royal will finally reopen. The 1200-seat Theatre Royal is one of Australia's oldest theatres, dating back to the 1870s. But most Sydneysiders will know it in its current form, which reopened in the 1970s and was designed by famed Australian architect Harry Seidler. It was built as a replacement for the old theatre, as that was demolished when the MLC Centre was erected — and, before sitting idle for the past five years, it's played host to everything from the Australian-premiere season of Cats to a three-year season of The Phantom of the Opera. In terms of physical changes during the multimillion-dollar refurbishment, leaseholders Trafalgar Entertainment has kept true to Seidler's original designs, while also increasing capacity from 1100 to 1200 via a redesign that's added an extra row of seats. The venue now sports a two-tiered setup, with no seat within the auditorium any more than 23 metres from the stage. Red and gold still feature heavily, colour-wise. There's also a new circular glass entrance space decked out with floor-to-ceiling windows, for views of King Street from the internal theatre foyer — and vice versa, including being able to see Theatre Royal's ribbed ceiling and geometrically precise hanging Mercator sculpture, as designed by Italian structural engineer Pier Luigi Nervi and American sculptor Charles O Perry respectively. And, there's a new Theatre Royal sign, as crafted and produced by Newcastle-based Owen Signs.
Revered chef, veteran restaurateur and bonefide icon Neil Perry has all but single-handedly transformed Double Bay into one of Sydney's buzziest dining destinations. First came Margaret, Perry's mod-Aus post-Rockpool passion project which was recently recognised as one of the world's best steakhouses. Next, there was Baker Bleu, the much-lauded Melbourne bakery that moved in next door to Margaret at Perry's behest to supply his fine diner with top-quality baked goods. Song Bird — a vast, multi-level Cantonese restaurant — is the jewel in Perry's Bay Street crown, spread over three floors of the heritage-listed Gaden House. But impressive as this mega-venue may be, there's a small yet perfectly formed treat to be found in its basement: Bobbie's, a quintessential cocktail lounge specialising in martinis. To realise Perry's vision for a chic, cosmopolitan 'tini joint, he tapped his long-time friends, Linden Pride and Nathalie Hudson, the dynamic duo behind famed New York haunt Dante. Indeed, the bar could be considered more Pride's than Perry's, since its name, Bobbie's, is an ode to Pride's renowned grandfather, Australian DJ Bob Rogers OAM, the nation's longest-serving radio announcer who is credited with introducing Top 40 radio programming on 2UE in the late 1950s. In a further nod to Pride's illustrious forebear, Bobbie's will also be a live music venue. The streamlined wine list sets a celebratory tone with a focus on champagne. Emerging champagne growers, more established champagne houses and sparkling wines from around the world offer patrons plenty of corks to pop. What Perry venue would be complete without a serious dining offering? The bar menu stars seafood plates and elevated snacks, but also sandwiches — both fresh and toasted. Think Walker's Big Eye Tuna with green olive and lemon salsa, Spencer Gulf King Prawn cocktail with Murray Rose sauce, and CopperTree Farm beef patty cheese melts with gruyere and pickles. Lighter bites lean luxe, with white sturgeon caviar, freshly shucked Sydney Rock oysters and gildas with green olive, anchovy and pickled chilli on the menu. "We've designed Bobbie's to be a place for people to enjoy at any time of the day or night," Perry shares. "Whether it be for a martini and oysters in the afternoon, a nightcap and cheese plate on the way home, or a full evening of dining, drinking and live music – the choice is yours." Images: Yusuke Oba
Perched atop the Harbord Hotel, Bombie's is the hottest beachside hangout this year. In collaboration with Doom Juice, the 70s-inspired rooftop bar is kicking off a weekly dinner club on Thursday nights. Have a cheeky boogie and soak in the stunning view of Freshwater Beach before a night of surprise dishes, paired with lo-fi drops from Doom Juice Wine. Expect (or don't expect, it could be something else entirely) zesty tuna tostadas, smoky lamb riblets and spiced sweet potato wedges. Dinner is served to the soundtrack of jazz grooves and soulful jams from Beat Mystique, who improvise their sets and build the vibe in real time. Be quick — there's a bottle of Doom Juice on the house for the first six bookings every week. Images: supplied.
A slasher premise. A script by Dawson's Creek creator Kevin Williamson. A cast member of Party of Five being terrorised. That setup worked well twice in the 90s, first with Scream and then with I Know What You Did Last Summer. Indeed, when they each initially released, sequels followed in both instances. Here's the latest part of the trend: both franchises have made or are making 2020s-era returns after jumps to TV with flicks sharing the same name as the original movies in each saga and featuring OG cast members. First came 2022's Scream. Next arrives 2025's I Know What You Did Last Summer. Once again, Jennifer Love Hewitt (9-1-1) follows in Neve Campbell's (The Lincoln Lawyer) footsteps — and as Scream did, I Know What You Did Last Summer picks up with a mix of familiar and new faces. As the just-dropped trailer for cinema's return to Southport illustrates, Freddie Prinze Jr (The Girl in the Pool) is also back. Being stalked for their past misdeeds this time: Madelyn Cline (Outer Banks), Chase Sui Wonders (The Studio), Jonah Hauer-King (The Tattooist of Auschwitz), Tyriq Withers (Me) and Sarah Pidgeon (The Friend). If you're a fan of 90s horror getting a new lease on life, we know what you're doing this winter Down Under, then, with the new I Know What You Did Last Summer hitting the big screen on Thursday, July 17, 2025. You'll also already be well-aware of the basic setup: a group of friends are involved in a car accident, someone dies, but they cover it up and vow not to tell anyone. A year later, of course that secret haunts them, as does a vengeance-seeking killer. The new film layers in the fact that this has all happened in the past, with the quintet in focus needing help from two survivors of the Southport Massacre of 1997. Enter Hewitt and Prinze Jr, as part of a cast that also includes Billy Campbell (Mr & Mrs Smith), Gabbriette Bechtel (Idiotka) and Austin Nichols (The Six Triple Eight). Starting as a 1973 novel, which Williamson adapted into the first 1997 film, I Know What You Did Last Summer initially spawned two sequels: 1998's I Still Know What You Did Last Summer and 2006's I'll Always Know What You Did Last Summer. In 2021, an I Know What You Did Last Summer TV series ran for one season. On the franchise's return to the big screen, Do Revenge filmmaker Jennifer Kaytin Robinson directs — and continues her connection with the OG I Know What You Did Last Summer cast, given that Sarah Michelle Gellar (Dexter: Original Sin) featured in that 2022 movie. Check out the trailer for I Know What You Did Last Summer below: I Know What You Did Last Summer releases in cinemas Down Under on Thursday, July 17, 2025.
For a lot of us, reading happens online. It's consumed in bite-sized, snackable chunks. Often, we don't stick around past the headline. Because, well, there's always something more interesting at the next scroll, swipe or click. For those craving a more substantial read, Basement Books is the place to head for a bargain. Take some time to peruse its aisles, with eight kilometres worth of discounted books on offer, you're bound to find something to suit your mood. Since 1999, Basement Books has been Sydney's leading remainder book retailer with all stock up to 90 percent off recommended retail price. Nab a great read for yourself or a budget-conscious gift when payday still feels too far away.
First, Good Things confirmed that it would be back in 2025, and also announced its dates. Now comes the next key detail: where the festival is heading this year. Music lovers already knew that the event is returning to its three annual stops — Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane — but now organisers have locked in the specific venues in each city. There's no change in the Victorian capital, with Flemington Racecourse again playing host to Good Things. In the Sunshine State, Brisbane Showgrounds is doing the honours again, too. But Sydneysiders will be hitting up Sydney Showground instead of Centennial Park, in a move made to increase capacity, shelter, transport options and accessibility. As it has in past years, the fest will play all three cities across one huge weekend. So, you can mark Friday, December 5 in your diaries for the Melbourne, then Saturday, December 6 in the Harbour City and Sunday, December 7 in Brisbane. As for who'll be on the bill, that still hasn't been revealed as yet, but it's safe to expect it soon. While 2022's lineup dropped in June, 2023's and 2024's each arrived in August. Last year, Korn, Violent Femmes and Billy Corgan were on headlining duty, with Electric Callboy, Mastodon, The Gaslight Anthem, L7, Kerry King, Jet, The Living End, The Butterfly Effect and Killing Heidi among their company. 2023's fest featured Devo, Limp Bizkit, Corey Taylor, Pennywise, Bullet for My Valentine, Taking Back Sunday, I Prevail, Enter Shikari, Pvris, Behemoth, Sepultura, Spiderbait, Frenzal Rhomb, Jebediah and Eskimo Joe, among other acts. In 2022, the reunited TISM, Bring Me the Horizon, The Amity Affliction, NOFX and Millencolin led the roster. Good Things 2025 Dates and Venues Friday, December 5 — Flemington Racecourse, Melbourne Saturday, December 6 — Sydney Showground, Sydney Sunday, December 7 — Brisbane Showgrounds, Brisbane Good Things will hit the Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane in December 2025. We'll update you when the lineup is announced and tickets go on sale — head to the festival website for more information and to sign up for the event's mailing list in the interim. Images: Kane Hibberd.
The vibrant suburbs of Balmain and Rozelle stand out as some of Sydney's most captivating and dynamic locales, a short ferry ride or light rail jaunt from the Harbour City's CBD. The area boasts an array of shops, pubs, cafes and restaurants in quaint Victorian-era buildings. Once humble blue-collar neighbourhoods, the suburbs have transformed into stylish hubs that entice residents, locals and tourists alike. Together with Balmain Rozelle Chamber of Commerce, we've curated this guide so you can make the most out of these suburbs in Sydney's inner west from day to night. Read on to discover some of our go-to spots to visit in Rozelle during the day, then flick the switch above, and we'll dim the lights to show the top spots to check out in Balmain once the sun starts to dip.
One of the most famous artworks in the world is coming to your home, ready for you to peer at whenever you want. Even better: you don't need a hefty bank balance or to be a Glass Onion-style tech mogul to afford it. You will have to build the iconic piece yourself, however, and it will be fashioned out of plastic bricks — all thanks to the latest addition to Lego's art range. That masterwork: The Great Wave off Kanagawa by Katsushika Hokusai, aka the woodblock print that dates back to 1831, is part of the artist's Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji series and is instantly recognisable. Depicting a stormy sea with Mount Fuji in the background, the piece might just be the best-known Japanese artwork ever, with original versions on display everywhere from the Tokyo National Museum to the British Museum in London and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. The Great Wave is certainly one of the most reproduced in history, but making the leap to Lego is a first. How many bricks does it take to turn such a beloved nearly 200-year-old print into a Lego creation? That'd be 1810, including tiny circle blocks for intricate detail. Indeed, this layered 3D set doesn't just recreate just the design of Hokusai's original, or the overall image, but its lines and depth as well. The Lego Art Hokusai: The Great Wave kit has started hitting stores worldwide, and will be available Down Under from Wednesday, February 1. Genuinely big enough to hang on your wall, The Great Wave set is unsurprisingly aimed at adults — a group that Lego has been courting for years, including with succulents, orchids, bouquets and bonsai fashioned out of bricks, because the toy brand knows that you don't ever really grow out of its interconnecting blocks. Lego's latest artistic reimagining follows in the footsteps of the company's The Starry Night set in 2021, which gave Vincent van Gogh's masterpiece the same treatment. Also included in The Great Wave kit, which'll cost AU$169.99 / NZ $179.99 when it goes on sale: a decorative tile with Hokusai's signature. Plus, Lego has created a soundtrack to go with it, so you can listen along as you build, as part of its ongoing focus on adults using its bricks to relax. For more information about Lego's new 'The Great Wave' kit, which goes on sale on Down Under on Wednesday, February 1, head to the company's website.
It might seem counterproductive to leave Australia in search of a beach holiday, but across New Zealand's 15,000 kilometres of pristine coastline, there are more sheltered seafronts, rugged cliff-lined shores and black sand beaches than you can shake a towel at. Deciding where to spend the warmer months with sand in every crevice and saltwater lapping around your ankles can be an adventure in itself. This month, New Zealand enters another phase in its post-COVID reopening plan, and from 11.59pm NZST / 8.59pm AEST on Tuesday, April 12, we can once again visit our closest neighbours without needing to quarantine on arrival. If you've got a trip over the ditch on your 2022 wishlist, we've put together a list of some of the best New Zealand beaches that you should visit at least once in your lifetime — whether you're keen to brave a winter dip or you're just already dreaming of next summer's sojourns. TAWHARANUI REGIONAL PARK, AUCKLAND Found around 90 kilometres from Auckland central, Tāwharanui Regional Park offers the full spread of summery activities for keen adventurers. Once you've reached the end of the gravel access road, you'll be greeted by beautiful white sand shoreline, easy walking tracks and crystal-clear rock pools up for exploration. It's also known to pump out some beginner-friendly waves, so don't forget to pack your preferred floatation device. And to really make the most of your trip, book a spot at the tent campsite so that you can stare at the clear skies above. [caption id="attachment_791375" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Adam Bryce[/caption] CATHEDRAL COVE, COROMANDEL This gem is a must-do in the Coromandel — and for good reason. Golden sand and a stunning natural rock archway await, whether you decide to arrive at the picturesque spot by boat, kayak or on foot. Leaving from Hahei, the 45-minute walk is well maintained and traverses rugged farmland, before delving into native bush. There are plenty of dramatic vantage points for photo opportunities, but the main event is the beach where you can easily wile away an entire afternoon. [caption id="attachment_791442" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Department of Conservation[/caption] ANCHORAGE BAY, ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK It can be hard to pick just one beach in the Abel Tasman, but how about starting with Anchorage Bay? The horseshoe bay is home to the first large beachside camping spot along the Abel Tasman walking trail and where boaties anchor their vessels — making it one of the more popular destinations in the national park. Here you'll find sweeping golden sand and turquoise blue waters, with a number of short walks leading to smaller secluded bays and stunning natural rock formations. During low tide you can walk across the tidal estuary to Torrent Bay. It'd also be rude not to mention (and jump in water taxi to) Kaiteriteri. [caption id="attachment_791435" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Adventure HQ[/caption] MAITAI BAY, BAY OF ISLANDS To really feel like you're on a tropical island, head to Maitai Bay at the point of the Karikari Peninsula. With its golden sand and crystal-clear blue water, the small sheltered horseshoe bay is something straight from a postcard. The destination can be extraordinarily popular in the summer months, so much so that local iwi declared the region a "no-take zone," in 2018 to allow sea life to recover. The rahui on fishing has finished, but we still recommend you reserve your time here for swimming, snorkelling and kayaking. If you're seeking a thrill, head through the bush at the right end of the beach and you'll find a stone ledge that serves as the perfect diving board. Book well in advance for a spot at the DOC campground. [caption id="attachment_664046" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Russell Street[/caption] PIHA, AUCKLAND Swim with caution at this rugged west Auckland beach. Piha might be best known for its strong currents and New Zealand's television answer to Bondi Rescue, but it's also a stunning location to spend the day. Choose your real estate on the hot black sand (don't forget footwear) and then cool off between the flags. Walking tracks can be completed along the headlands and up to scenic lookouts, while further along the coast are equally as wild beaches like Karekare and Muriwai where you can take a surf lesson and go horse trekking. [caption id="attachment_791439" align="alignnone" width="2048"] Awful-N4[/caption] NEW CHUMS, COROMANDEL Hidden away from the masses for most of the year, New Chums has previously been voted as one of the world's top ten beaches. The stretch of golden sand on the Coromandel Peninsula is fringed by pohutukawa and native forest and has no buildings, roads or infrastructure. Access to the one-kilometre undeveloped stretch of paradise is by boat or via a rocky foreshore walk from the Whangapoua car park. And once you're there it's no uncommon to spot marine life swimming the length of the beach. [caption id="attachment_791437" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kiwi Canary[/caption] AWAROA, ABLE TASMAN NATIONAL PARK Awaroa made headlines in 2016 when it was bought via crowdfunding campaign by the New Zealand public for over two million dollars and then donated back to the national park. The secluded golden banks of Awaroa are only accessible to those walking the Abel Tasman Coastal Track two hours either side of low tide, or by boat or helicopter. A short walk inland there's the Awaroa Lodge where you can enjoy pizza under a glade of native trees, and there are several glamping and camping options for overnight holidaymakers. [caption id="attachment_791441" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Russell Street[/caption] NGARUNUI, RAGLAN Sometimes called Ocean Beach, Main Beach or Wainui Beach, this wild black sand beach with consistent waves is ideal for groms learning how to surf. The Raglan Surf School is parked up right on the vast west coast stretch for those keen to get in on the action, while more experienced riders can hire boards and wetsuits by the hour. With unforgiving riptides, ocean swimmers should stay between the flags. Hang around until the end of the day and you'll cop an extraordinary sunset. [caption id="attachment_791440" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Glen Sinclair[/caption] WHARARIKI, NELSON This windswept beach has to be one of the country's most photographed sections of coastline. The beach is only accessible via a 20-minute track from the end of Wharariki Road, which travels over farmland and through coastal forest. With particularly big seas, sight-seeing is the number one attraction here — and the Archway Islands will certainly serve up the goods. The group of four rock formations rising from the tide provide an exception photo opp, especially if you decide to tour the region on horseback. [caption id="attachment_791436" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Trevor Klatko[/caption] NINETY MILE BEACH, NORTHLAND This epic 88-kilometre-long stretch of sand has to be seen to be believed. The famed northland beach starts near Kaitaia and makes its way up to Cape Reinga. At low tide the beach is officially a public highway, but don't even think about bringing your rental hatchback here — several have been swallowed by the unforgiving seas. The dunes at Te Paki in the north are famously used for bodyboarding — just expect to take home pockets full of sand. Bring water, and sunscreen. From 11.59pm NZST / 8.59pm AEST on Tuesday, April 12, double-vaccinated Australian tourists will be able to holiday in New Zealand without needing to isolate on arrival. Tourists will be required to test negative for COVID-19 with a PCR or RAT before leaving Australia for their trip, before providing negative tests on day one and day five of their stay in New Zealand. For more information, head to the New Zealand Government's official COVID-19 website. Top image: Adam Bryce.
The Macquarie Park hangout has all the makings of a quintessential Aussie boozer, boasting a roomy front bar and bistro, a garden terrace for those al fresco sessions, and even its very own rooftop bar, complete with 360-degree views. From the same group behind large-scale watering holes like the Bella Vista Hotel and Hillside Hotel, The Governor is angling to be a crowd-pleaser, offering a little something for every mood, occasion and time of the week. The main bar and bistro, which can seat an impressive 260, is decked out in dark timber, royal green and foliage aplenty, with cosy booths that take their design cues from old-school train carriages. Settle in by the open fire, or out under the festoon lighting of the leafy terrace. To match the variety of spaces, Head Chef Luke Lashford has put together a broad food offering — with everything from teriyaki chicken poké and a range of woodfired pizzas, to a slow-cooked Flinders Island lamb shoulder, best shared between three or four people in one of those intimate booths. The drinks list is designed to complement, featuring old favourites alongside crafty seasonal creations. Upstairs, rooftop bar Ess — which is slated to open in early August — boasts a bar and kitchen of its own, an Asian-inspired menu heroing the Japanese charcoal grill. Venture up for the likes of wagyu beef skewers, port ribs with wasabi chimichurri and portobello mushroom katsu baos. Images: Kai Leishman
If Bluesfest is a regular part of your Easter plans, then the Byron Bay event's team has wrapped up 2025's festivities with some excellent news for you in 2026: the long-weekend fest will still be on the calendar next year. In fact, dates are locked in and early-bird tickets are on sale. If you haven't already, put Thursday, April 2–Sunday, April 5, 2026 in your calendar. The announcement comes after a massive year for the long-running fest, which notched up its 36th in 2025. Organisers have advised that this year's festival saw more than 109,000 attendees, "making Bluesfest 2025 the biggest we've seen in years, and the third-largest event in our history". [caption id="attachment_867505" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Lachlan Douglas[/caption] This year's lineup drawcards included ten-time Grammy-winner Chaka Khan, rains-blessing rock group Toto, 'Sailing' and 'Ride Like the Wind' singer Christopher Cross, plus Crowded House, Ocean Alley and Vance Joy — and also Hilltop Hoods, Budjerah, Kasey Chambers and The Cat Empire, as well as Xavier Rudd, John Butler, Tones and I, Missy Higgins, George Thorogood & The Destroyers and many more. It wasn't just the roster of acts that saw Bluefest earn such a strong showing, however. Back in 2024, before the festival began revealing who was on its next bill, it advised that it would bid farewell with its 2025 event — marking the end of an era. That news came after Groovin the Moo and Splendour in the Grass had cancelled for 2024, neither of which returned this year. Within months of Bluefest saying that it was calling time, however, reports that discussions were underway about the festival's future — and also that artists are already being booked for 2026 — started circulating following widespread community support. Accordingly, Bluesfest making a 2026 comeback shouldn't come as a huge surprise. The festival is one of five New South Wales events newly named as recipients of backing from the first round of the state's Contemporary Music Festival Viability Fund, alongside Lost Paradise, Your and Owls, Listen Out and Field Day. [caption id="attachment_969990" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Joseph Mayers[/caption] [caption id="attachment_969989" align="alignnone" width="1920"] LD Somefx[/caption] [caption id="attachment_969987" align="alignnone" width="1920"] LD Somefx[/caption] [caption id="attachment_867504" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kurt Petersen[/caption] Bluesfest 2026 will run from Thursday, April 2–Sunday, April 5 at Byron Events Farm, Tyagarah. Early-bird tickets are on sale now — for further information, head to the Bluesfest website. Top image: Roger Cotgreave.
Croissants aren't easy to make, and no one in Australia knows that better than Kate Reid. For a decade, she's been the face of Lune Croissanterie, the bakery acclaimed by everyone from Yotam Ottolenghi (who called its flaky wares "the croissant that should act as the prototype for all others") to The New York Times (who anointed them "the finest you will find anywhere in the world"). The Melbourne-born chain's pastries didn't just luck into that effusive praise, however. Drawing upon her background as an ex-Formula 1 aerodynamicist, Reid took to the task of making the perfect croissant with scientific precision back when she changed fields. Lune's climate-controlled glass cubes, where its croissants are made and baked, have also become famous — adding even more complexity to an already-intricate pastry-creating process. After ten years spent crafting its titular treat, and also expanding the brand across Melbourne and Brisbane (plus Sydney in 2023), Lune has its croissants down to an art — and a science. Australia's pastry fiends clearly agree, spanning the chain's classic OG number through to its rotating array of monthly specials; head to any Lune location and the lines are proof enough. But Reid doesn't want croissant aficionados to only covet Lune's baked goods by heading in-store, not that anyone needs much encouragement there. Cue recipe book LUNE: Croissants All Day, All Night, which endeavours to share and demystify the croissant-making method — the butter, layers and laminating all included — across its hefty 272 pages. [caption id="attachment_871783" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Lune's Kate and Cam Reid[/caption] Reid hasn't found a croissant-making shortcut for the masses, but she has reworked Lune's greatest hits to whip up at home. "Making croissants is really hard, and there's a reason why it's normally a bakery with commercial equipment," she tells Concrete Playground, chatting while touring the country launching the book. When it came time to write the tome, the pandemic struck. Reid describes herself as "a hermit" as a result, but put the situation to good use. "It was coincidental that we ended up in a lockdown, and I was basically stuck in my kitchen at home," she explains. "I was like, 'okay, well what I'm surrounded by is what everyone who buys the book is going to be surrounded by'. So I basically rewrote the recipes from scratch with the home baker in mind." Yes, while everyone else was trying out sourdough, Reid was creating the world's next home-cooking obsession. (When Concrete Playground suggests that perhaps readers will approach Reid's recipes Julie & Julia-style, baking their way through them all from start to finish, she laughs approvingly.) If that commitment sounds like the act of a perfectionist, it is, and Reid freely uses the label to describe herself. You don't get to be an Australian who's globally renowned for a French pastry — so much so that LUNE: Croissants All Day, All Night is being snapped by up folks with bakeries in Wales and Prague, Reid advises — without being diligent and meticulous. You also don't get there without learning plenty. When Reid founded Lune, she did "honestly just want to make the best croissant". She was dedicated to that task — starting work at 5am and putting in 10–12-hours-plus a day rolling croissants up until just a couple of years ago — but didn't once dream of having "five stores around Australia, soon to add to Sydney to the mix (which we're all super-excited about), a book, 170 staff and a wine bar", as she itemises. She credits that modest initial outlook and the genuine passion behind it for Lune's success. It might seem surprising for someone clearly so detail-oriented, but she also champions discovering when to not sweat the small stuff, as she talked through in a chat about croissant dreams, cookbook essentials and the best advice she's ever received. ON STARTING LUNE TO CHASE THE PERFECT CROISSANT "The story's well known about leaving Formula 1 and coming back to Australia, and being interested in being a baker or a pastry chef. But it was going to Paris and spending the time at Du Pain et des Idées, and working exclusively in their raw pastry kitchen. Prior to that, I'd been working in cafes, and making cakes and tarts and biscuits — and while I enjoyed that, I needed something that presented far more of a technical challenge. Discovering that at a bakery in Paris, I finally felt like every single one of the receptors that I needed to be stimulated to feel fulfilled in my work were. I was working in a bakery in France where I had to speak French, and learn new techniques that are physically challenging. I came back from Paris so inspired by what I'd learnt — and then wanting to find a croissant in Melbourne that had matched what I'd been eating and making in Paris. I couldn't really find anything that came anywhere near it, so I guess that was where the idea for Lune was born." [caption id="attachment_668102" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Peter Tarasiuk.[/caption] ON SWAPPING A CHILDHOOD DREAM FOR A PASTRY-FILLED FUTURE "I think I'd turned 30 the year I started Lune. For 20 years just preceding that, I'd been laser-focused about a career in Formula 1. I'd literally planned out my retirement. I was going to be the first female technical director of an F1 team, and wanted to retire in Scotland. When I got sick and came back to Australia, the thought of planning too far ahead scared me, because planning so far ahead had put me in a pretty dark place and things hadn't panned out the way I'd thought. So Lune was a bit more of a one-step-at-a-time approach. Like, 'okay you've discovered this new thing that you love, and you've got an ideal to open a little wholesale bakery in Melbourne — let's start there'. Maybe that's been one of the keys to the success of Lune, in that I didn't have a hard and fast outcome that I needed to achieve other than continuing to hone and perfect this pastry, and therefore it has grown in quite an organic direction. The right people have come along at the right time. Cam [Reid's brother and co-owner] came along 18 months in and he's been instrumental. And Nathan [restaurateur Toleman, of Dessous, Hazel and Common Ground Project] came onboard another year or so later, and he's been instrumental as we've been growing in Victoria and interstate. And then there's the chefs that've crossed our paths over the years. We didn't even know that we were going to go to Brisbane up until two years ago, when the opportunity presented itself. I think now where we are, it's important for us to have a growth plan and a vision, but I think all of us — myself, Cameron and Nathan — are all aware that you don't know what life's going to throw at you, or what your business or you are personally going to have to face, and what challenges are going to come. And it's better to be open-minded, as doors will open when you don't expect." ON WRITING A LUNE COOKBOOK TEN YEARS ON — AND CATERING FOR ALL BAKERS "I've had experiences, not just with bakery books but cookbooks in general, where you follow a recipe to the letter in a book and somehow the end result isn't exactly what it promises to be in the photo or the inscriptions. You always blame yourself, because you're like 'well I'm not a professional chef that wrote that recipe, and I don't work in that restaurant, so I must've done something wrong'. I really wanted to write a book that, short of having me in the kitchen with you, the person who bought it and wanted to cook from it really felt like I was like coaching them through the process in a very detailed way. So, the recipes had to be achievable by a home cook. In order to do that, I discovered over probably six or seven weeks of pretty frustrating trials at home last year that I couldn't just replicate what we did at Lune, obviously, because no one in their home kitchen has all the commercial bakery equipment that we have at Lune. I make no bones about it: there's a reason that we don't make croissants at home. But I think especially over the past few years — and with thanks to people like Chad Robertson from Tartine, who's really normalised and championed more technical baking at home, especially with the understanding of making sourdough bread — people out there want a bigger challenge. Especially over the last couple of years with going in and out of lockdown, people got really savvy in their own kitchens making things that otherwise they might've just wandered down to the local bakery to get. There will be many people who read the recipes I've written and, at the start it tells you you've got to dedicate three days to it —there's managing of temperatures, and pulling batches of pastry in and out of the fridge to make sure the butter's the right consistency; it's very technical. The technical home baker will absolutely dive into the recipes. But for those people who don't want to dedicate three days of life to try to make them from home, there's a couple of chapters in the book dedicated to twice-baked recipes that are cult-classics at Lune — like our coconut pandan or the carrot cake, the mocha, the choc-chip cookie-slice bake — and then there's also a leftovers chapter. Those chapters mean that you can just walk down to your local bakery, buy half-a-dozen plain croissants, then engage with the book and cook from it in a couple of hours of cooking in the kitchen, rather than three days." ON PICKING THE RECIPES — AND PLAYING FAVOURITES "I actually compiled a list of every single special we've ever done at Lune, and the list is hundreds long. Then I looked through it, and basically went and picked out my 60 favourites. The book had to come from my heart, and I needed to make sure that there was a really lovely story behind each recipe included. I also wanted it to be a good balance of sweet and savoury, of simple and complex, and pastries that Lune customers remember from the last ten years. It'd be very hard for me to go past the traditional croissant, and just the challenge of mastering the plain croissant at home. Anyone who embarks on that recipe is going to have a great amount of satisfaction when they pull them out of the oven on day three. But in terms of what to do with the croissant pastry and be creative with it, there are so many recipes in the book. The fish pie one is genius because it uses the scraps of the scraps, so nothing needs to get thrown in the bin. And then with the kouign-amann recipe, which isn't a cult Lune recipe — it's a classic French pastry — even if you've stuffed up your lamination a bit in the raw pastry, you are going to get the most delicious pastry you've ever made at home." ON THE BEST ADVICE REID HAS EVER RECEIVED "It's probably been from Cam, my brother. I am absolutely a perfectionist, maybe to my detriment, and had Cam not come along I potentially could've gotten really stuck in the detail of perfecting the croissant — and at the expense of making a viable business. I'm a control freak as well, so it took me a long time to be able to step back and let go of control of elements that ultimately I didn't need to have control of. The advice is to let go of the things that don't matter, and let other people take hold of things, because somebody's always better at something than you are. If you can find someone that's better at it than you, it's going to be to the benefit of the business and the product, and ultimately you as well. And trusting in people. I think my biggest learning is that to grow a business, 100-percent the most important thing is to have a really good recruitment program, because to get the right people involved in your business is the only way for a business to grow and succeed." AND SOME ADVICE FOR LUNE: CROISSANTS ALL DAY, ALL NIGHT READERS "Source really good ingredients to start with, because you can't make something great from bad ingredients – you just can't. They're your foundation, your good ingredients. If you live in a really hot, humid environment and you don't have air-conditioning, it's probably going to be the most frustrating recipe of your entire life. It's really not designed for warm environments, and if you don't have the ability to control the room that you're doing the pastry in, then you're not going to have a great time. And please tag me on Instagram if you try to make it, because I'm so excited to see everyone's results. That's not advice — that's a request!" LUNE: Croissants All Day, All Night is available at Australian bookstores and online, with the hardback edition retailing for $55.
It's been one of those weeks. You've been racing across the city (or tapping between Zoom calls) for back-to-back meetings and fielding urgent calls, all while your unread email count continues to climb. Oh, and you still have to nab a gift for your mum's birthday before the weekend. We've all been there. Life can be hectic, as we all know. If your nine-to-five has you feeling like a sea change but you can't escape the desk, we've got a way to make you feel like you're holidaying by the Mediterranean coastline — and it won't cost you a cent. In the spirit of turning off and seeking out some wholesome nature, we tracked down some top-notch seaside walks to freshen up your routine. From the shores of the northern beaches to the bush tracks of the Royal National Park, recharge this weekend by embarking on one of Sydney's best coastal walks. [caption id="attachment_719993" align="alignnone" width="1920"] jipe7 via Flickr[/caption] BONDI TO BRONTE No guide to Sydney's walks would be complete without a mention of the iconic Bondi to Bronte coastal track. With panoramic Pacific Ocean vistas, magnificent cave-like cliffs and a stack of delicious brunch spots to help you refuel, this is definitely one for the local bucket list. Grab a coffee and bagel from Lox in a Box and kick off this three-and-a-half-kilometre walk at Bondi Icebergs, weaving your way along the rocky foreshore and finishing up at Bronte's lush park. If you're not too tired, keep the endorphins going by following the track all the way to Coogee (with a spritz and pizza from Coogee Pavilion to finish, of course). [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Martin7d2 via Flickr.[/caption] GLEBE FORESHORE The inner west might be best-known for its pubs, bars and live music, but there's much more to this eclectic part of town. Head to Bicentennial Park near Rozelle Bay for a leisurely four-kilometre stroll along the Glebe foreshore. Here, you'll enjoy a slice of bayside paradise as you make your way along the picturesque track, which is perfectly accessible by the nearby light rail and bus stop. Pup parents can also let their pooch run free at the off-leash end of Bicentennial Park before heading to the historic cricket ground of Jubilee Park. Take a break once you reach Blackwattle Bay Park or continue along to the end and you'll hit the Sydney Fish Markets, the perfect spot to finish with a hot box of fish and chips for lunch. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1920"] NSW Parks.[/caption] PALM BEACH TO BARRENJOEY LIGHTHOUSE Perched at the top of Sydney's northern beaches, just 90 minutes from the CBD, Palm Beach is the ultimate spot for a staycation. It boasts the laidback vibes you'd expect from a tropical escape, minus the airfare. So, it's the ideal spot for an easy day-trip from the big smoke. While you're there, head to the top of the peninsula for the Barrenjoey Lighthouse walk. This cruisey three-kilometre trail takes you through the bush to the lighthouse, with sweeping views of Palm Beach and beyond. Tip: take the short but steep Smugglers Track route for the best views (and photos). Feeling peckish? Swing by The Boathouse Palm Beach for a bucket of prawns and a Murray's Whale Ale. CHOWDER BAY TO BALMORAL BEACH For those who rarely venture across the bridge, there's a well-kept secret that you mightn't know about. Tucked away on Sydney's lower north shore, you'll find a walk with some of the best vantage points across sparkling Sydney Harbour. Starting in Chowder Bay, this short one-and-a-half-kilometre track is bursting with stories from Sydney's history. You'll pass Gunners Barracks, an old military point that's been converted into a high-tea destination, soak in the city skyline from Georges Heights Lookout (dotted with military cannons aplenty) and emerge at Balmoral Beach. Dive in for a dip or head straight to the cafe to cap off this leisurely weekend stroll. [caption id="attachment_703777" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Scott Brown via Flickr[/caption] THE ROYAL NATIONAL PARK COAST TRACK Looking for a spot of adventure? Grab your swag and backpack, and gear up for this spectacular two-day, 26-kilometre coastal hike through one of the oldest national parks in the world — Royal National Park. This one's a serious beauty and a must for experienced hikers. You'll forget all about your inbox while you're getting off the grid, spending a weekend in the bush and reconnecting with nature. The first day will see you exploring through the rugged wilderness from Bundeena southwards, with sandstone and sandy beaches at every turn. Set up camp for the night at North Era (just make sure you book this one in advance) before tackling the final three-hour stint to the top of Otford the next day. We suggest you check for closures on the NSW National Parks website before you head off on this multi-day adventure, too. Time your trip right (between May and October) and you might even spot a migrating humpback whale during your walk.
Brothers Ben and Chris Gleeson launched Glee Coffee Roasters on the Central Coast in 2009, and now, 10 years later, it has grown into a four-cafe business and the flagship brand for specialty coffee in the region. Located in the historic Chapman Building, the Glee Coffee Wyong outpost serves its own house blend known as "The Goods", along with single origins from Guatemala — with a taste profile of raspberry, pepper, fudge — and a Nicaragua filter roast described as having blackcurrant yoghurt, cherry, fudge and dark chocolate notes. With a breakfast menu including french toast, avocado delight and waffles, and a lunch menu of pulled pork burgers and nachos, there's something for everyone to get stuck into at Glee.
When it comes to idyllic harbourside suburbs, it's hard to look past Sydney's beautiful Rose Bay. Only seven kilometres from the city, the neighbourhood sports an array of top-notch cafes, stylish watering holes and plenty of independent bakeries, grocers, homeware shops and bottle shops to enjoy. Here, there are loads of opportunities to lend the community and small businesses in the area a helping hand. To help you make the most of your time in the area, we've teamed up with American Express to design your go-to guide of venues to browse in and around Rose Bay. Grab a bite with mates, restock your liquor cabinet or prepare an excellent dinner party by shopping small with just a tap of your Amex Card.
Seafood is a true treasure of Aotearoa — and there may be no better place to sample some of the freshest than in the South Island. The South doesn't tend to do fine dining, preferring informal eating spots that emphasise ingredients, comfort and making you feel well and truly looked after. The wines are some of the best in the country, and the views? Incredible. Here's your guide to finding the truly unmissable seafood experiences of Te Waipounamu (the South Island). Whether you're eating with a knife and fork or deep-diving to the bottom of a newspaper parcel sitting on a beach, it's all ka pai (great). SHARE A POT OF GREEN-LIPPED MUSSELS AT THE MUSSEL POT Havelock is a little blip on the road between Picton and Nelson in the northeastern Marlborough region — blink, and you'll nearly miss it. But clamber out of the car, stretch your legs and go for a walk around the sleepy little marina where you'll find The Mussel Pot on the main road. Marlborough produces 80 percent of New Zealand's mussel exports. You will not find fresher. The Mussel Pot's menu dedicates the majority of its repertoire to these little green-lipped marvels. Order a kilogram of fresh mussels in cream, white wine, garlic and herbs ($20.50), or coriander, ginger, chilli and coconut cream ($20.50). It also serves battered mussels ($21.50) or grilled on the half shell ($21.50) and whip up a mussel platter ($47.60) if you can't decide which way you like them. 73 Main Road, Havelock, Marlborough. [caption id="attachment_686918" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Boatshed Cafe.[/caption] EAT OYSTERS PERCHED OVER THE SEA AT THE BOAT SHED CAFE IN NELSON The Boat Shed Cafe is a genuinely lovely eating spot in a beautiful old boat shed on the waterfront in Nelson, in the north of the South Island. It will win you over with plates of fresh food, many of which star locally caught seafood — think beautiful Bluff oysters served naturally with just a squeeze of lemon ($5.50 each) and roasted whole sand flounder with paprika and lime ($27). You can also choose the Trust the Chef banquet ($70 per person). This is food to share with people you love, watching the sun set over the sea with a cold glass of chardonnay (Neudorf is the local choice). New Zealand eating doesn't get much better than this. 350 Wakefield Quay, Nelson. [caption id="attachment_687366" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Graeme Murray.[/caption] SHARE A CRAY BESIDE THE OCEAN (OR HAVE ONE TO YOURSELF) AT NIN'S BIN This third-generation roadside eatery has served fresh seafood from its blue and white cray caravan since 1977 and has become an icon on the drive down the east coast. Shuttered for a long time after the Kaikoura earthquake, Nin's is now back up and running. Fishing quotas mean that Nin's opening hours vary, so check its Facebook page for updates, or give 'em a call before you head in for the hot crayfish, mussels and chips in newspaper. On the days you catch it open, your heart will sing as you drive around the corner and see the steam rising from the caravan hatch and the happy patrons tucking into their feast beside the sea. State Highway 1, Half Moon Bay. EAT FISH AND CHIPS ON THE BEACH IN AKAROA A lovely day trip, Akaroa is a sleepy little French colonial town beside the sea, over the hills from Christchurch. Head out in the morning from Christchurch and wander around town, go for a swim, have a long lunch at Rona's and finish the evening eating fish and chips on the beach or on the hill overlooking the harbour. The food is simple. The experience is a classic. There's not much more to say. Every South Islander knows it, and you should partake, too. Just don't forget the rip n dip. 59 Beach Road, Akaroa. [caption id="attachment_687223" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Rodney F.[/caption] SIT DOWN AT FLEUR'S PLACE IN MOERAKI Fleur's Place feels like it has sat at the edge of the jetty in Moeraki, near Dunedin since forever. The elements of the day's menu are literally purchased off the back of the fishing boats and carried a few metres to the kitchen. At the heart of the operation is Fleur Sullivan, a chef who has a firm place in Aotearoa's food heritage. She centres the menu around local, organic produce and seafood like blue cod, John Dory, moki, bluenose, gurnard, sole, flounder, groper and crayfish. Fleur's is also one of the best spots to try local titi, or muttonbird. The wines largely come from central Otago, which is world-renowned for its pinot varieties and fruity white varietals. Take a seat and watch the seals on the foreshore, the fishing boats pottering in and out and parcels of fresh fish being brought into the restaurant or smokehouse. 169 Haven Street, on the jetty at Moeraki. Start planning your trip to New Zealand's south with our guide to the South Island journeys to take here.
