Sometimes, you just want a sweet treat and a few film facts. For Australian fans of lollies and movies, Fantales have always come through. Sure, the chocolate-covered caramels are great for a sugar fix, but they've become an iconic Australian favourite thanks to their yellow wrappers printed with stories about the big screen's stars. And yes, they're the perfect snack when you're hitting the cinema. Well, they were. Fantales have been around for almost a century, debuting in the 1930s, but the Aussie chocolate is going the way of silent the age. Come mid-July, they'll cease production, with Nestle announcing that it is closing the curtain on the lollies. If you were a pre-internet kid, you'll remember gleaning film tidbits about famous faces thanks to the sweets back in the day when every piece of information about every celebrity wasn't available online instantly. But apparently that hasn't been enough to keep folks buying Fantales. Indeed, Nestle's decision has been made due to declining sales, plus the upgrades that'd be needed to the machinery that makes them "We know our decision to stop making Fantales will be sad news for many people," said Nestlé Oceania Confectionery General Manager Andrew Lawrey. "Many of us grew up with Fantales and have fond memories of them. Despite the sense of nostalgia Fantales evoke, unfortunately people simply aren't buying them as often as they used to," he continued. "In addition, our Fantales equipment needs significant investment. It's become increasingly difficult to get the parts we need to maintain it and, with declining sales, replacing it isn't viable." Before you start fearing for that other Aussie childhood staple — that'd be Minties — Nestle has confirmed that they're sticking around, as are other party bag go-tos like Snakes Alive and Allen's Party Mix. Fantales will cease production in mid-July 2023. You'll find them on supermarket shelves for now while stocks last.
My, my, Alexandria certainly is becoming quite the foodie hotspot. It seems now the locals here are spoilt for choice, much like their fellow inner-westies over in Marrickville. Keeping in harmony with Alexandria's business district and concrete jungle theme, the Copper Mill is a spacious and stylish spot, perfect for the locals to grab a coffee or some lunch to escape the suburban mayhem. Formerly serving at Chippendale cafe, Shortlist, Jake Thomas, Hugh Piper and Rebecca Keane have continued with their impressive set-ups and effortless appeal, with no small detail being overlooked. Walls are painted in grey slate and exposed brick and copper pipes are a reflection of the industrial area. The raw and casual appeal is maintained with wooden tables and benches that are adorned with help-yourself cutlery buckets and Young Henry flagons of water. Window seats are available too, where you can watch the daily thrum of dog walkers and fitness gurus en route to Sydney Park. These coffee pros are pouring a not-too bad Human Canonball, roasted by Golden Cobra ($3.50), as well as a rotating single origin from Moccamaster ($3.50). The real star of the show though is the simple, healthy, rustic menu that is served up quick smart from the open kitchen. Their culinary skills do not go amiss here: a sure-fire Peruvian influence evident with a bacon and egg roll spiced up with pork chicharron, egg, kumera, salsa criolla and lemon mayo ($10). Furthermore to this latino swinging, the ancient Peruvian grain quinoa is puffed up in a cereal topped with dates, coconut flakes, yoghurt and a sweet pear and cardamom milk ($9.50). More straightforward options such as sourdough toast, come courtesy of Brickfields bakery — thick slices with homemade jam ($4.50) are classic winners. The strength of the fare comes at lunchtime, when humble salads are assembled with fresh ingredients and unusual dressings drizzled over to complete the package. Beet-cured salmon with garden peas, quinoa, cherry tomatoes ($15) and chilli yoghurt is a beseeching option; but the real chart-topper is a delicious plate of broadbeans, chorizo and a sunnyside egg, with parsley and lemon zest adding a zing and a side of sourdough balancing it all out ($13). So tasty is this bread in fact, that it's also hard to overlook the daily sandwiches ($9). Who doesn't love Christmas ham, especially when gruyere cheese and an eggplant pickle are its companions? Speaking of eggplant pickle — let's hope this homemade condiment gets kept on rotation. Decidedly the champion in a vegetarian sarnie, it perfectly complements the roast cauliflower, butter lettuce and feta cheese. But we'd like a tad more on our sarnie please — actually no, the whole jar to lick clean the contents. Sweet-tooths will be pleased to see a small array of pastries on offer, otherwise an iced chocolate ($5) or a coconut hot choccie ($4.50) will seal the deal. The Copper Mill is offering up decent food and coffee, service with a smile, and an ideal opportunity for locals to avoid chaotic King Street or the exhausting queues at the Grounds.
With over 200 Aboriginal artists represented, the Kate Owen Gallery offers a diverse range of styles from Aboriginal Australian artists across the country. Spanning three floors, the gallery hosts major exhibitions of established Indigenous masters and emerging talents, offering artworks suitable for new buyers and seasoned collectors. The third-level Collectors' Gallery is a haven for quality pieces from Australia's leading Indigenous artists, including renowned figures like Clifford Possum, Emily Kngwarreye, and Tommy Watson. Visitors can explore the extensive collection through a unique racking system and receive assistance from five specialist Aboriginal art consultants. Kate Owen Gallery is committed to supporting Indigenous artists' rights and is a proud member of the Aboriginal Art Association of Australia (AAAA), ensuring fair and transparent practices in every transaction. Whether you're a newcomer or a seasoned collector, experience the rich heritage of the world's oldest living culture at Kate Owen Gallery. Images: Kate Owen Gallery of current (April 2024) exhibition of artist Tommy Watson.
Dance music hits. An orchestra. Combine the two and Ministry of Sound Classical is one end result. For a few years now, this event has been giving Australia what no one probably knew they wanted when Ministry of Sound first started as a London club night back in 1991: tunes that usually fill dance floors performed by classical musicians. If you're a fan of making shapes and you're fond of getting nostalgic, then Ministry of Sound keeps indulging — sometimes by throwing huge 90s and 00s parties that nod back to raves three decades back and club nights at the turn of the century, and sometimes via this orchestral tour that gives bangers from the past 30 years a new live spin. In Australia, the latter is returning before 2025 is out, seeing out spring in Brisbane and Melbourne, then welcoming summer in Sydney and Perth. This year's run kicks off at Victoria Park in the Sunshine State capital on Saturday, November 1, with Sneaky Sound System headlining. Conducted by Vanessa Perica and with DJ Groove Terminator on backing duties, the Ministry of Sound Orchestra takes pride of place, of course. Then, Cassius is heading Down Under from France to front the fun on Saturday, November 29 at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl in Melbourne — as well as on Saturday, December 6 at The Entertainment Quarter in Sydney, plus on Friday, December 12 at Kings Park & Botanic Garden in Perth. Other than the orchestra, the lineup varies per city, spanning both international and Australian names. Judge Jules is on the bill in Melbourne and Sydney, for instance, while Tall Paul is also joining in in Sydney — and so is A.Skillz, who has a date with Perth as well. Dirty South is another talent with a date with Brisbane. John Course, Kid Kenobi, Mell Hall and Minx are on the roster, too, plus local names at each of Ministry of Sound Classical's 2025 stops. As for vocalists, expect Reigan, Karina Chavez, Rudy, Lady Lyric and Luke Antony. Ministry of Sound Classical is calling 2025's run a summer dance music festival — even if half of its dates are the month prior — which means that a curated food and bar lineup is also on offer. Sydney will score three stages, while Brisbane, Melbourne and Perth will also feature a silent disco. As for the soundtrack, the event surveys tunes that've packed dance floors over Ministry of Sound's existence — so you just might hear classical renditions of Basement Jaxx, Darude, Röyksopp, Robin, Underworld, Moby, Fisher and more played by its orchestra. Ministry of Sound Classical 2025 Dates Saturday, November 1 — Victoria Park, Brisbane Saturday, November 29 — Sidney Myer Music Bowl, Melbourne Saturday, December 6 — The Entertainment Quarter, Sydney Friday, December 12 — Kings Park & Botanic Garden, Perth Ministry of Sound Classical 2025 Lineup (varies per city) Cassius Judge Jules Sneaky Sound System Tall Paul A.Skillz Dirty South John Course Kid Kenobi Mell Hall Minx 2025's Ministry of Sound Classical tour will pop up across Australia in November and December. For further details and tickets — with presales from Tuesday, June 17 at 12pm AEST, then general sales from Wednesday, June 18 at the same time — head to the tour website. Images: Ruby Boland, Ashlea Caygill and Jack Dullard.
Under current COVID-19 restrictions, you can't go on a holiday (locally or overseas). But, the government has hinted travel between Australia and New Zealand may be allowed in the near future, so it's time to start dreaming. Bookmark this for when you can explore once again. With a bountiful backyard to be explored, it's high time you got out and slept in the most jaw-dropping rest stops in the South Island. You may be giving up your own bed, but you don't have to sacrifice any comfort for that natural NZ beauty at these glamping retreats. To help you find the perfect place to rest your head in the great outdoors (without getting too lo-fi), we've gathered a list of the best glamping spots in the south. Get ready for a night of luxury, trust us, you'll never sleep better. CAMP KEKERENGU, KAIKOURA Waking up at Kaikoura's Camp Kekerengu is like waking up on the edge of the earth. Perched high above the wild Clarence River, you can watch the sunrise from your bed over the expansive beaches below then enjoy sights of playful seals and whales putting on a show. The campsite is complete with outdoor baths and a kitchen with a vista to die for — you'll be moving in before you know it. Go for the full luxe experience, and head to Nin's Bin to eat some of the freshest crayfish you can get your hands on. $220 per night. LAVERICKS BAY, CHRISTCHURCH If you just want to switch off and escape, look no further than Lavericks Bay. Tucked away in the coves of the Banks Peninsula, this lavish campsite boasts wooden outdoor hot tubs and toasty wood burners for the cooler Christchurch nights. It also opens onto a private beach and backs onto rolling hills for your exploring pleasure. Fall asleep watching the stars, then hike up the hill to watch the sun rise over the ocean and feel the serenity. At a 40 minutes' drive from Akaroa and two hours from the garden city, it's a bit of a trek — but, trust us, it's worth the effort. While you're there, grab a surfboard and check out some of the remote breaks dotted around the Banks Peninsula. $210 per night. ROCKY POINT HUT, PEPIN ISLAND Just a stone's throw away from Nelson — but far enough to look back on the bay's beauty — is Rocky Point Hut on Pepin Island. Nestled on the remote tip of the picturesque farming island, the accommodation is a two-hour walk from the isolated Cable Bay beach. While that sounds long, your hard work will be rewarded with an epic vista to make you feel like the king of the land. Your throne? The outdoor hot tub with panoramic views of Tasman Bay. For the full royal treatment, forgo cooking and head to Cable Bay Cafe instead. It's a secret spot only the locals know and serves some of New Zealand's best fare. $150 per night. VALLEY VIEWS, OTAGO Deep in the heart of Mackenzie Country, you'll find a village of luxurious tents to call home. Valley Views Glamping does what it says, delivering incredible views of farm, river and mountain across the vast Waitaki Valley. The campsite sits two hours from Wanaka, giving you a chance to soak in the southern sights on your way to the comfy bed and cosy log burner that await your arrival. Bring a book, and your favourite person, you're not going to want to leave. While you're there, make tracks to Kurow Estate Winery's Cellar Door and pick up some vino to enjoy with the views. $200–$300 per night. WOODPECKER HUT Welcome to Woodpecker Hut, an oasis in the midst of the West Coast wilderness where you can kick back and let your worries subside. Designed and built by locals, the isolated cabin sits harmoniously within its natural surrounds. The hut marries luxury with nature seamlessly, so you can soak in the wooden hot tub all while you soak up a sunset. With bushwalks and beaches at your doorstep, there's plenty of adventuring to be done if you get tired of relaxing, too. If you're after even more views, take a trip just five minutes down the road to the breathtaking Pancake Rocks. $290 per night. Start planning your trip to New Zealand's south with our guide to the South Island journeys to take here.
If the Tomaree Head Summit is the best spot for epic views across the Port Stephens region, then Gan Gan Hill Lookout runs a close second. At 160 metres, it's the highest lookout in the region. And bonus: this one is accessible by car via Lily Hill Road if you're short on time or if there is a wheelchair user in your group. The car park is just 100 metres from the vantage point with a slight incline. It also makes it a great spot to head for stunning sunset vistas of the headlands, Tomaree National Park and up to Hawks Nest without the danger of walking back downhill in the dark. Yep, if you're after minimal effort with maximum reward, this is it. If you do want to walk though, it shouldn't take you more than 40 minutes each way. The hill was formerly known at Lilli Hill by the Maiangal People, a nod to the gymea lily plants that grow in abundance — and up to five metres high — at the top of the hill and flower prominently in spring. Image: Vishal Makwana via Flickr
One Playground Merrylands is the Sydney wellness brand's first foray into the city's mighty west — and its largest and most ambitious studio to date. Spanning 3000 square metres across two levels of Merryland's Mason & Main mixed-use precinct, this expansive health hub brings together high-performance training, boutique group classes and luxe recovery facilities, all under one beautifully designed roof. The gym floor alone covers 1500 square metres and features over 100 top-tier machines, including Technogym cardio equipment, custom Gym80 strength rigs and stainless steel Watson dumbbells. There's also a dedicated Comfort Zone for quieter, more mindful strength training, perfect for beginners or anyone after a more relaxed session. Members also have access to a weekly schedule of over 300 classes, which take place across the gym's six purpose-built studios. There's something for every fitness personality, from high-intensity boxing and interval training to grounding yoga and pilates in the calming Space studio. Semi-private coaching and reformer pilates are also on offer — as is a resort-style recovery area fitted with infrared and traditional saunas. One Playground locations showcase both form and function, and its Merrylands studio is no different. Inspired by the luxury of Dubai and Morocco, One Playground Merrylands swaps harsh gym lighting for terracotta-rendered walls, micro-cement floors and arched windows that frame the 5.5-metre-high ceilings.
The Rover has returned — dropping its "wild" moniker and with it, the jungle wallpaper — emerging as a sophisticated Surry Hills dining and drink destination tucked behind the same green door at the end of Campbell Street. It may have shed its dive bar energy but there are still hints of its Irish-themed past remaining with a plethora of whiskies on the drinks list, freshly shucked oysters, the repurposed train board listing and the Irish coffee on the dessert menu. The wine list — curated by Liquid & Larder head sommelier Kyle Poole — features over 50 interesting drops, highlighting complex but approachable organic and biodynamic wines. Seasonal cocktails join the drinks list curated by 2019 Australian Bartender of the Year Alex Gondzioulis. Plus, the aforementioned plethora of whiskies includes drams from America, Ireland, Scotland, Japan and, of course, Australia. It doesn't stop at the extensive drinks menu. In addition to the freshly shucked oysters, famous lamb sausage roll and fish finger sandwich on the New-England-inspired bar food menu on the ground level, you'll find a refined seafood bistro upstairs — the brainchild of British-born executive chef Pip Pratt. He explains "We wanted to elevate the restaurant experience for our guests with dishes that let seafood shine. This is fresh and fuss-free coastal fare best enjoyed with friends and great drinks in hand." Highlights of the menu include a daily rotation of crustaceans, a whole flathead served with lashings of garlic and clams, Nick's fisherman's pie with smoked trout and potato gratin and eel pate served with horseradish jelly and a glazed crumpet — a modern take on a traditional East London dish dating back to the 18th century when jellied eels were once a primary source for the city's working class. The revamped Rover is part of the Liquid & Larder hospitality group along with Grandma's, Bistecca and The Gidley. Reservations for the seafood bistro are available between 5–9pm, Monday–Saturday, as well as from 12pm for lunch on Saturday. Reservations can be made through the website or phone. Updated May 2, 2023. Images: Dominic Lonergan
Fine dining meets Asian fusion at contemporary diner Luna Lu, located along Campbells Cove in Circular Quay. This restaurant fuses contemporary Asian fare with quality Australian produce. Diners can choose between tempting small plates such as Hokkaido scallop sashimi with cashew nut puree and pickled daikon; yellowfin tuna tataki with a som tum yum mango dressing; and Black Angus Ranger Valley short beef ribs with sticky sauce and fresh chillies. A range of dim sims are made fresh daily, with no artificial colours or flavours. Diners can choose between classic money bags, charcoal har gow dumplings with king prawn and spanner crab, green half-moon dumplings with Hokkaido scallops, and more. Larger dishes include a wok-fried MB9 rump cap steak, honey yuzu crispy fried chicken, and seafood candied fried rice. Vegetarians and vegans in attendance will not go home hungry with Kung Pao-style eggplant and a mock-chicken version of the honey yuzu chicken dish. The Luna Lu signature menu features a selection of the venue's showstopping dishes, such as Tasmanian southern rock lobster picked straight from the tank; Berkshire pork belly with crispy leeks and cinnamon dark soy sauce; and Glacier Heard Island toothfish coated in a green curry and English spinach emulsion. If there's room for dessert, choose between sticky date pudding, pandan deep-fried ice cream, or Luna's Opera House — inspired by the iconic building — among others. There's a variety of menus on offer at Luna Lu. Besides the main menu outlined above, there's the express lunch menu, a children's menu, a gluten-free version of the menu and a high tea menu available on the weekends from 12–4pm. Not to be outdone by the food on offer, Luna Lu pours a variety of signature cocktails, sake, gins and whiskies, as well as an extensive wine list — with 18 Penfolds wines making the cut. More beverage options can be found upstairs at Luna Lu's sister venue, Bar Lulu, where decadent bar snacks, cocktails and wines are on offer. Luna Lu can be found at Bays 4 and 5, 7-27 Circular Quay West, Campbells Cove, The Rocks. The restaurant is open from 12pm–late daily. Find out more at the Luna Lu website.
When Shabana Azeez says that "it's been wild", she's telling Concrete Playground about 2025 for her so far, and about being in the cast of The Pitt. Her words could equally apply to the 15-hour shift that the gripping medical drama's debut season follows, which happens to be the first day working in the emergency room for Azeez's character. In the exceptional Pittsburgh Trauma Medical Hospital-set series, the Australian actor plays Dr Victoria Javadi — a third-year medical student, and also a 20-year-old prodigy, who begins her ER rotation on what proves not only a chaotic and challenging but also a traumatic day. Between January and April, when the show was dropping its first season's episodes week to week, how that trial-by-fire initiation turned out for Javadi was appointment (and can't-look-away) viewing. "It's been really wild. I was actually travelling after we wrapped — which, I think when we were shooting, there were four episodes that came out, maybe more," Azeez continues. "And then I was in Berlin and I was in London and I was in Italy and in Texas for film festivals and stuff, and people were recognising me from The Pitt in a lot of places, which was strange. To have a show you made in one sound stage, in a little beautiful life, have an impact in multiple places — it's so, so surreal." The Pitt was always going to attract interest. With not one, not two, but three big names that helped make ER a hit involved, viewers were bound to tune in. The Pitt boasts actor, co-writer and executive producer Noah Wyle (Leverage: Redemption) leading the on-screen charge — and, behind the scenes, reuniting with director and executive producer John Wells (Shameless), plus this Max smash's creator, showrunner and writer R Scott Gemmill (NCIS: Los Angeles). Yes, it might take ER fans a second to get used to seeing Wyle in scrubs being called Dr Robby rather than Dr Carter, but it only takes a second. Yes, those in that camp will spot the symmetry of The Pitt kicking off on Javadi's first emergency-room day, and that of a few of her fellow medical students, as ER did with Wyle's beloved figure. Within mere moments of its premiere episode starting, The Pitt establishes its own intensity. The format — "15 episodes. 15 hours. 1 shift" is the tagline — helps set the tone, as does the dedication to realism that anyone who has spent time in a hospital will recognise. With attending physician Michael 'Robby' Robinavitch, senior residents Heather Collins (Tracey Ifeachor, Wonka) and Frank Langdon (Patrick Ball, Law & Order), charge nurse Dana Evans (Katherine LaNasa, Daredevil: Born Again), third-year resident Samira Mohan (Supriya Ganesh, Grown-ish) and second-year resident Cassie McKay (Fiona Dourif, Chucky), plus Javadi and other Pittsburgh Trauma newcomers Mel King (Taylor Dearden, The Last Thing He Told Me), Trinity Santos (Isa Briones, Goosebumps) and Dennis Whitaker (Gerran Howell, Ludwig), the series chronicles a gig that'd be tough and hectic on a standard day, let alone when a mass-casualty event occurs in the city courtesy of a shooter at a festival. Azeez's task, then, is to portray a character who is trying to impress on such an unforgettable first shift, and endeavouring to provide excellent medical care to the many, many patients that need it — and, as someone only just out of her teens, attempting to fit in, too. Javadi has the weight of parental expectation bearing down, because she's followed in her parents' footsteps. She also tries to ask a colleague out on a date. It's only when the shift wraps up that she has her first-ever beer. Taking on the role meant Azeez moving across the world, attending boot camp with her co-stars and, as an Australian thankfully unaccustomed to the active-shooter situation depicted, researching gun violence. It also meant unpacking what Javadi is going through given her age and intelligence, what she's missed out on by speeding through school and college, and the pressure of her whole existence. Azeez can't speak highly enough about being welcomed into The Pitt's cast and crew to play Javadi, and what being one of the show's stars means to her. "I think I'm learning a lot from Noah," she advises. That's after she's already had quite the massive past year or so before The Pitt even started airing, became such a smash, had viewers around the globe hooked and was renewed for a second season. If you watched Apple Cider Vinegar, you should've spotted Azeez in an episode. In 2024, she was on the big screen in Australian thriller Birdeater. When Aussie animation Lesbian Space Princess won the Teddy award in Berlin this year — ahead of making its Down Under debut at the 2025 Sydney Film Festival — it did so with Azeez voicing its eponymous figure. We also chatted to the Adelaide talent about that path to The Pitt, alongside what appealed to her about stepping into Dr Javadi's shoes. Working among such an excellent ensemble, the show's impressive pedigree, being protective of the character, her research process: our discussion covered them all as well, among other topics. On How Azeez Feels About Her Huge Past Couple of Years, Not Only with The Pitt But Also Birdeater and Lesbian Space Princess "Who even knows? I really feel so lucky. But also it feels like, I don't know, The Pitt was so — it was seven months we shot, which is, for an Australian, kind of wild, right? Because Australia shoots fast. And so my longest gig before that would've been like six weeks. And so to pick up my life in Melbourne and move to LA for seven months, now it feels like my perception of time is so strange. Apple Cider Vinegar, I was just there for one day. And Birdeater shot in little pockets over a few years. And it's just very strange when things come out, because it's the combination of so much work when you're a film actor. And then often people are like 'oh, my god, this thing's coming out' and you're sitting at home unemployed alone. So it's very feast and famine, and very strange, but I'm so lucky and I'm having a great time." On What Appealed to Azeez About The Pitt and Portraying Dr Javadi "The team, obviously. We got the brief and it was like 'the people that made ER and The West Wing are making a new show' — that's a once-in-a-lifetime casting brief. And we knew the TV that they make goes on for a long time — these are really cultural moments, John Wells' productions, shows — and obviously that was a massive, massive selling point. Not that I was in a position to be choosy. I was just wanting to audition and that was exciting to me. Also, the script was insane. I don't know if the scripts are public at all or if anybody can see them, but they're novels, they're dense and they're incredible. I remember having to go out to get more highlighters in different colours to be able to track which character was who — because it was all surnames and I couldn't figure out who anybody was, and there were so many characters in that first episode. And sitting in my apartment trying to audition, figuring out who I'm talking to in my audition scene, took ages. It was a really cool audition. It was out-of-body — thinking about it now, I'm like 'god, who was I back then coming to this audition?'. And then for Javadi, I was so excited by her as a character. I think being a young woman, there's a massive variation in the types of auditions you can get. But there's not a single female character on the show that's sexualised — or the idea of something. Everybody's fully fleshed out. In a way, that's just so incredible to see. And I know it should be the standard, but the writing is amazing, and the female characters are so complicated and beautiful and incredible. And smart — like really smart — and not really existing for anybody else's character growth. We're all there for each other as an ensemble, and it doesn't seem like there's a lot of imbalance there. So it was so exciting to get a script with a big ensemble of interesting characters and be like 'oh, this young one' — especially being the youngest one. I'm kind of scrappy and I think we have a lot in common, except that she's really smart and a brilliant doctor, and I'm an actor. But she was just very interesting — I've never seen a brief like her before." On Juggling Javadi's Intelligence, Age, Nerves, New Job, Love Life and Attempts to Give Excellent Medical Care, All on a Traumatic 15-Hour Day "I think that was really — I don't want to say 'easy', but it was really served by the way we worked, in that we shot chronologically. So usually when you're shooting, you're shooting out of order, and so you're doing so much work to be like 'my character's experienced this crazy thing and this crazy thing and this crazy thing', and I have to, in my head and in my body, know all of those things and then shoot scene 75 before I shoot scene two. In this situation, we were building on what we've done. Except for Pittsburgh — we shot the exteriors in Pittsburgh over one week, and so that final scene of the entire show we shot before we'd even read past script nine, I want to say. So I hadn't read the mass shooting. I hadn't read a lot of it. And there was just a lot of putting trust in the editors and the directors and the producers, and knowing that they would treat all our characters with care. I'm very protective of Javadi. She's just so little, and she's just trying her hardest, but I knew I could trust them with her. She's our little baby. I think it was really nice, because it was written so organically that that's just how complicated real people are. It was like that thing, right — none of these characters are the idea of a trope. They are fully fleshed-out human beings. And you can be — in fact, most really smart people are, really, there is a deficit that balances out somewhere else in the character, right? So I think that her being really, really smart, it makes sense that she would also then be socially quite complicated and struggling, because she's growing up so lonely and so isolated. I remember R Scott Gemmill, in one of our first character meetings, said to me 'you know, her parents kind of used her as a party trick' — and it's really interesting to think about what that would do to a small child, to be valued for being impressive. The type of bravery it takes to be publicly, confidently bad at something — to ask a boy out, even though you've maybe never done it before and you're going to have to stay on the shift and see him, even if it goes badly — the bravery and the courage that it takes when you have been disproportionately valued for being special your whole life is something that I think I really want to explore with her more and give her credit for. I think, often for me, her worst behaviours or her least-impressive behaviours — or her most-cringey or -embarrassing behaviours — are the things for me that I love most about her, and they speak the most to her positive and beautiful character traits. Because I think to put yourself out there in that way is really brave. I don't know that I could do that, and I grew up with a lot of friends and not socially isolated in the way that she has been. It's really exciting also to see people react to her awkward moments and like it, and think that she's funny — it's really rewarding." On Working with a Stellar Ensemble While Diving Into Such an Intense Scenario "It's really lovely and really nice — it's so much background work on the show, and it's really immersive being on the show, and so it's like, yes, the cast, but also all the background we have, and all the crew are wearing scrubs all the time. And the amount of immersion you can get from every bit, being around everybody all day, and everybody giving it their all in that way — it's so special because it's so immersive. Usually, you're on set, and maybe you're crying and you're looking at a tennis ball or a line somebody's drawn on the wall, and these people wearing Dickies are all around you, holding lights to your face. Whereas in this situation, you fully are like 'no, I'm in a trauma situation. I'm in a surgery room'. The lights that we use are real. The level of immersion is so special, and it makes shooting seamless and fast. It's amazing. And the people are so great, and I think it's lovely to work with people who are great at their job, obviously, which everybody can see — but I also think everybody in the audience can see how wonderful the people are that we're working with, even if they're playing assholes, maybe. It's really funny watching people be like 'that girl must be so mean to you in real life', but Isa is a lovely, beautiful friend. So that's really lucky that everybody's kind and easy to work with as well." On Being Part of a Series with an Impressive Pedigree, and That Sits Among Fellow Great Medical Dramas "Honestly, I don't think I had time to be nervous. I did one self-tape — I sent in a tape — and then I did one zoom, and then we got the call that I booked it. And I had a month to move to America and be on the ground at Warner Bros. So I don't think I had time to panic about anything. I was panicked about getting a Social Security number and all the logistics of moving your life. And accents and medical research and all that stuff. And so for me, I was just so, so grateful to be there. I think that they really did the work to not make it nerve-racking for us younger ones, too, in that our casting process was really chill and relaxed and warm and safe. And so that energy, I think it ended up funnelling into experience on the set. And also we did a boot camp before we started acting, so for two weeks we got to know each other and get comfy with each other — and not just with the other actors, but also with John Wells and R Scott Gemmill. Obviously there was pressure and excitement to be working on such an incredible show with such an incredible team, but every single person on a personal level worked their asses off to make sure that they weren't creating pressure, they were creating warmth and safety. To the point of: we all spend time together, even with John and Scott, before we started, giving you enough about the job to combat all the natural pressure and scary feelings — and I'm so grateful for that. That level of skill — I think you can see the skill on the show, there's so much skill, there's so much writing skill, so much directing skill, so much producing skill, you can see that on the show. But the soft skills that come with being a creative, they were 10 out of 10, 100 percent all the time with all of that as well, and that's not really visible to the audience — and it's really special to get it." On the Research That Goes Into Playing Dr Javadi as an Australian in an American Medical Series "I did a lot of research on gun violence. And I ended up getting specific things from the writers, too — like 'which one did you base this on?' and 'what resources would you recommend to me?'. Then I also did specific things on Javadi's experience of guns — so growing up in Pittsburgh, what suburbs she would've grown up in? Things like that, picking a house on Google Maps. But also, she would have gone to school in this time — how many school-shooter drills were happening at this time? And what kind of school-shooter drills were they? A lot of resources were coming up that school-shooter drills, often kids don't know they're a drill — or they do know they're a drill, but they're simulating all these really scary things, so they can be traumatising in way that a shooting can be. And so figuring out where she sat on certain spectrums, and how long she was at school for, because she's sort of a savant and she graduated school at high school at 13 and started college really young. Also doing a lot of research into what it's like to be a kid genius and how lonely that is, and the experiences of being isolated from your peers and being really young around a lot older people. What does that do to you? Does it stunt you or do you meet them somewhere? What's the experience of doing American college with no alcohol? That sounds so silly, almost. But even in Australia, alcohol is a massive part of our culture, and obviously she's too young — and we see her have her first beer in the last episode of The Pitt at 20. So how does that isolate you if everybody's going to the pub after an exam, or going to a bar to decompress after a week? How does not being able to participate in any social thing affect your self-worth or your ability to build rapport? And so I think we see her be quite awkward in the show, and I did a lot of research into why she would be like that and how awkward to be, so hopefully that comes through. And that's really exciting stuff to do, because it's just so different to my experience of the world." On Azeez's Journey From Adelaide and Short Films to a Series-Regular Role on a Hit US TV Show "It means so much to me. Obviously growing up in Adelaide, LA is worlds and worlds away, and it was this fantasy that I didn't — and also LA is a fantasy even in American media. LA is just this strange sort of utopia for filmmakers, right? And it felt for a long time like that was just never going to happen to me — because how? How do you get from Adelaide to LA? I still don't really understand it even though it's happened to me, I guess because it seems so unlikely. And there's no obvious pathways when you're an actor. You really do have to cede control, in a way. So the fact that this thing that I've been convincing myself was not possible for so long — it's like 'temper my expectations', all of that — but the fact that I didn't have to temper my expectations and it happened is so lucky. I don't even know if 'lucky' is the word. It feels blessed. It's so crazy to me, and I don't know that I'll ever understand it or feel like — like how do you earn something like that? How do you earn being on The Pitt? I don't know. I just feel very lucky, and I'm not questioning it, lest somebody else with power question it. But for my career, I think Australia — there's this saying in Adelaide where if you want to work in Adelaide as an actor, you have to move to Melbourne and then come back, and then people in Adelaide will be like 'oh my god, they worked in Melbourne, they must be great'. And I think that just happens at every stage, except with The Pitt, where they didn't. They thought I lived in Adelaide, Australia, when they cast me in The Pitt. The did not care about where I came from or what my context was, they just wanted me for this role. And that level of freedom, creatively, where they didn't want me to have any sort of audience, they didn't need me to be famous, they didn't need me to bring anything to this project except myself, was so special to me. I don't know that I've ever experienced the confidence that they had in me as a creative, to just give some kid from Adelaide this series-regular role in their massive TV show. That means a lot as an artist, obviously. But it also is the blueprint for me going forward of how I want to be as an artist. I think I'm learning a lot from Noah. And to get to learn from these people and then bring that knowledge back to Adelaide or Melbourne or wherever I end up is so, so meaningful. I'm very grateful." The Pitt streams via Max in Australia and Neon in New Zealand.
Backed by sand dunes and bushland that conceal the streets and buildings beyond, One Mile Beach feels more remote than it actually is. Just ten kilometres from the Port Stephens town centre, One Mile is a popular destination in the warmer months for beachgoers, particularly those staying at nearby holiday parks. But even when the weather is less than favourable for swimming, surfing and sunbathing, the beach is worth a look in for an easy stroll along the sand. Start at the southern end and walk towards Samurai Point — and be sure to keep an eye out for sea life as you walk. Beyond the point is Samurai Beach, a clothing-optional spot, which also has free campground accessible via 4WD. Image: Destination NSW
Of Sydney's inner-city burrows, Glebe seems to possess that true bohemian spirit. The super chill suburb, which borders Sydney University and features well-integrated public housing, welcomes folk from all walks of life. The people are openminded and creative. The community supports local business while championing thrift shopping and other sustainable practices. Plus, the suburb itself is gorgeous, leafy and comes complete with water views. Sounds pretty great, right? It is. In fact, it's certainly worthy of a visit. To ensure you get a glimpse of the real Glebe, we first partnered with City of Sydney to chat with Julian Cincotta of Thievery — one of the must-hit restaurants in the area — then with Jacob Collier from creative hub The Works to discover both of their local favourites. And now, to add onto their lists, we've pulled together all the essentials which you simply must see in the suburb. If you're ready for a change of pace, want to slow down and appreciate your surrounds, get yourself to Glebe.
Hidden behind Enmore Road in a sleepy backstreet, Soulmate is standout in the stacked Inner West cafe scene. The work of the accomplished team behind some of the best cafes in northwest Sydney — Good Fella and The Tuckshop — this Phillip Street spot is a go-to for good coffee and loaded sandwiches. Just be warned that getting a table on the weekend is an uphill battle. On entry, you'll notice two taps that would fit right in at any of Enmore or Newtown's beloved pubs but instead of beer these are pouring cold brew. They fit into a drinks menu that includes all of your standard milk coffees, batch brew, smoothies and cold-pressed juices, plus craft beer and Cantina OK! seltzers for that requisite hair of the dog. There's also a creation called The McHenry which is hot or cold black coffee topped with whippy. If you're hungry, the food menu doesn't do things in half measures, with all sorts of ingredients sandwiched between or served on top of every type of bread imaginable. Highlights include the deli hoagie which loads up a soft hoagie roll with salami, ham, provolone, tomato, mustard, pickles, guindillas, herb mayo and shredded lettuce; and the Soulmate B&E Roll, a play on your classic bacon and egg with the addition of sambal, nanna's cheese and herb mayo on a potato bun. Bagels are also a fan favourite here. They're made in-house and there are three to choose from including the classic Reuben style with pastrami, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, spicy mayo and pickles. As mentioned up top, there's generally a considerable wait for a table on weekends but if you can't nab a spot, you can always get your brunch takeaway and head over to Camperdown Memorial Park for a morning picnic. Images: Josh Jay Appears in: The Best Cafes in Sydney Where to Find the Best Breakfast in Sydney
Great cinema often feels timely and topical. Even just from its two trailers so far — and even while remaking a South Korean sci-fi comedy from 2003 — Yorgos Lanthimos and Emma Stone's next movie together already seems to fit that description. A battle between the one percent and the conspiracy-obsessed is at the heart of Bugonia, when a CEO is kidnapped by two young men who are convinced that she isn't from earth. Another year, another collaboration between two big names who keep teaming up to make stellar films, then. With Bugonia, Stone and Lanthimos combine for their fourth joint feature, following 2018's The Favourite, 2023's Poor Things and 2024's Kinds of Kindness. The first of the bunch earned them both Oscar nominations. The second scored Stone her second Academy Award and made Lanthimos a contender again. The latest? It's a remake of Save the Green Planet!. If you've seen that film, then you'll know the story. If you haven't, get ready for Lanthimos' take on it. Either way, the Greek filmmaker's newest movie is all about a CEO of a major company, two men obsessed with wild theories, the belief that said head honcho is an alien who'll destroy earth and, as a result, an abduction plot to attempt to hold her to account. In her second feature of 2025, and second this year to see her wrapped up with conspiracy-spouting folks after Ari Aster's Eddington, Stone is the CEO in Bugonia. Doing the abducting: Jesse Plemons — who also worked with Lanthimos on Kinds of Kindness, and won the Best Actor Award at Cannes for his efforts — plus feature first-timer Aidan Delbis. Bugonia's cast also spans Stavros Halkias (Tires) and Alicia Silverstone (Y2K). Behind the camera, while Lanthimos directs, Will Tracy (The Menu) adapted the screenplay from Jang Joon-hwan's film. Stone is one of Bugonia's producers, too — and so is Aster. The movie just premiered at the Venice International Film Festival, where Poor Things did and won the Golden Lion. For audiences Down Under, Bugonia has a date with local cinemas from Thursday, October 30, 2025. Check out the full trailer for Bugonia below: Bugonia releases in cinemas Down Under on Thursday, October 30, 2025. Images: Atsushi Nishijima/Focus Features © 2025 All Rights Reserved.
Cafe food is usually an underwhelming experience here in Sydney. It's a shame really, with our excellent and expanding coffee culture that more cafes don't pay as much attention to the food. There are however, a few places starting to change this and Kepos Street Kitchen is one of them. Let's start with the coffee. Like everything here, there's attention to detail. The coffee is from standout cafe The Grounds in Alexandria and the beans are done justice at Kepos Street. There's also an organic tea selection from The Rabbit Hole and some refreshing mocktails. Yes, mocktails are cool, in case you haven't heard. Places like Chiswick and Rockpool Bar & Grill are making their own flavoured sodas and Kepos Street Kitchen is mixing some delicious booze-free drinks like a crisp pomegranate virgin mojito ($9) served in a cute handled jam jar. Yes, lovely well executed drinks that don't contain caffeine or alcohol. How considerate. The cafe's interior is simple and clean. It's mostly white- and honey-coloured wood; we love the creamy tones and big windows. It is right by a main road, but Kepos Street itself is a surprisingly leafy, quiet and charming little spot. Owner Michael Rantissi's Israeli heritage is dotted through the menu with the likes of Tel Aviv falafel and homemade hummus. He appears quite regularly on the floor saying Shalom to friends old and new while the rest of the staff are similarly welcoming. There's a good mix of salads, things wrapped in bread and more substantial dishes like gnocchi with braised veal shoulder and Persian eggplant ($26) which is beautifully balanced in flavour. The slowly braised meat and handmade gnocchi are soft and delicate. A traditional tabouleh salad ($12) is lifted by bursts of fresh pomegranate seeds and shreds of mint. Having previously worked at Pier and Vue de Monde, it's great to see chefs of Rantissi's caliber step into more casual dining, serving thoughtful and simple food with quality ingredients. Kepos Street Kitchen proves that cafe fare deserves consideration and when done well, can be a very rewarding experience. Oh and did we mention the freshly baked cinnamon, pecan, caramel buns? Yep, we're already big fans of Kepos Street Kitchen, and we hope it's a sign of good things to come in our cafe culture.
While we were sad to see Sydney institution, Redfern Continental (and its cocktail bar GDR), close its doors, we are pretty happy to see The Sunshine Inn establish itself as Redfern's resident wine bar since 2020. Owners Daniel McBride and Lynn Smulewicz have brought their expertise to create a neighbourhood spot, both approachable and inventive. The newer venue, like it's predecessor, is split in two. Out the front, you'll find casual restaurant The Sunshine Inn and, out the back in the old GDR space, is the dining room dubbed DD's. The Sunshine Inn's menu is predominately plant based and focused on locally sourced produce. Think beetroot carpaccio with a tomato and shallot dressing. Or, a crispy tofu burger featuring miso mayo, a gochujang glaze, and topped with cabbage slaw and pickled cucumber. Look out for seasonal pasta dishes which go for $10 every Tuesday. [caption id="attachment_784792" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cassandra Hannagan[/caption] The front bar is bright and airy with a minimalist fit-out — think white walls with navy accents and natural timber furnishings. Here, you'll also find a cocktail menu that focuses on Aussie spirits and native flavours. With drinks you can go classic or inventive with a 'Redfern Spritz', made with Poor Tom's Imbroglio, NSW Prosecco and lemon. Or opt for a craft beer or sour, or a glass or two of wine. The wine list focused almost exclusively on Aussie drops while balancing the natural with the accessible. Local winemakers MADA, Mac Forbes and Doom Juice all represent, and brews from Sydney's Yulli's, White Bay and Grifter are pouring as well. Images: Cassandra Hannagan
What do Byron Bay, Busselton, Bali and Bangkok all have in common? Alongside everywhere from Launceston, Newcastle, Uluru, Cairns, Darwin, The Whitsundays, and the Gold and Sunshine Coasts through to Singapore and Phuket, you can nab a cheap flight there and back as part of Jetstar's latest sale. This time around, fares start at $33. The one catch: you'll need to be a Club Jetstar member (but you can sign up now to get in on the bargains). There always seems to be an airline sale popping up, but this one has a heap of discounts on a huge number of fares, with 100,000 flights on offer. You do need to get in quick, however, as it's running for just 48 hours. The cheapest domestic price, $33, gets you between Sydney and Ballina/Byron, but Launceston–Melbourne is only $43, Brisbane–Whitsunday Coast and Newcastle–Melbourne are both $49, Gold Coast–Sydney is $50, Sunshine Coast–Sydney starts at $52 and Hobart–Melbourne begins at $58. To get from Brisbane to Cairns, you'll pay $76 — and from Sydney to Uluru is $105, Melbourne–Busselton / Margaret River is $135 and Darwin–Sydney is $156. The list goes on, including for overseas jaunts, where the Perth–Singapore route starts at $139, Melbourne–Singapore begins at $189, Adelaide–Bali is $215, Sydney–Phuket kicks off at $279 and Brisbane–Bangkok starts at $285. If you're keen, the sale runs from 12pm AEDT on Wednesday, March 19–11.59am ADST on Friday, March 21, 2025 — or until sold out, if snapped up earlier. And yes, if you're eager for a holiday at reduced prices, you'll want to get in quick. Travel periods vary, but you should find dates betwen late-March 2025–early-February 2026 across the full spread of specials. You'll pay extra for checked baggage if you need it, however, or you'll want to travel super light. Club Jetstar membership costs $65 a year, which you can join online while making a flight booking, and also gives you 20-percent off checked bags and seat selection. [caption id="attachment_976497" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jesse Shaw Photography[/caption] The Club Jetstar March member-only sale runs from 12pm AEDT on Wednesday, March 19–11.59am ADST on Friday, March 21, 2025 — or until sold out, if snapped up earlier. 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.
It's rare that I find myself passionate about a bar, but the Fox Hole deserves to have its praises sung. Perched on the corner of Kent and Erskine Streets in the CBD, here's what I believe epitomises an unpretentious drinking hole. The front room is cosy with patrons bunked down at hazily candle-lit tables sipping their wine as they watch the world go by through large windows. Wooden stairs lure me into the basement, where the only windows are high along the roof, and my eyes catch glimpses of heels as people stroll past on the street above. Many small bars try for that speakeasy feel yet so few actually manage to accomplish it. To my delight, the Fox Hole's basement has been gutted and stripped back to expose brick walls and the ceiling rafters, making for a room offering an intensely underground cool. Bare bulbs hang from the roof and the room is occupied by a seamless blend of antique furniture. The bar shelves are stocked with wine, liquor and crystal glasses while vintage blues wafts through the air to create a sultry den-like ambiance. Expect table service delivered by friendly staff, because that's what's on offer. And let it be known that these guys are experts in their field, too, so don't shy away from asking for a recommendation. Deciding against my companions' choice of Little Creatures Pale Ale ($7) I went for the 2009 St Johns Road Cabernet Sauvignon, Barossa Valley ($10 glass) suggested by my waiter. The food? Dumplings ($6 for four), with Korean-style spicy chicken and vegetable soup ($8) and a share plate of cheeses, cold cut meats and other antipasto treats ($15) rounding off the menu. We select the mixed dumpling plate ($10.50 for seven) and the share plate. The straightforward fare is exceptional in execution, presented simply with a rich dollop of originality. My tipple of choice to accompany the food was the 2010 Dowie Doole Merlot from Mclaren Vale SA ($11 glass), which is light at first, then rounded off full-bodied. Also worth noting is the fact that the Fox Hole supports local artists by offering the space as a gallery free-of-charge, with no commission on sales. The artist in residence changes monthly and a launch is held on the last Tuesday of every month. The Fox Hole is a cosy-hidey hole from the hustle and bustle of Sydney's city that roars above.
Draped in jewel tones, with antique lighting sconces, Victorian wallpaper and exposed brick, this corner bar's cosy, speakeasy vibes perfectly match the spirit of its signature drink – the negroni. There are plenty of places in Sydney where you can find a damn decent version of this ever-popular cocktail, but the Frankie team raises the bar with a new dimension of craftsmanship, making everything they serve in-house, from its gin and other base liquors to its syrups and cordials, and most importantly, its vermouth. Owner Sam Overton spent "over a year, thousands of dollars and countless hours" perfecting his sweet and dry vermouth recipes. The result? A negroni like no other — and with 16 variations of the classic cocktail available on the menu, you can be sure to find one to suit every taste. Opt for the OG classic or branch out with one of the bar's more unconventional creations like the strawberry sour and the Mexican negroni — a spicy spin with margarita energy. And we can't forget the internet favourite – the Sbagliato (with prosecco). If you're struck with choice paralysis, Frankie's tasting flight gives you the opportunity to explore the variety of flavours offered by its homemade ingredients. Though the negroni is the star of the show, be sure to show the bar's list of 16 alternative cocktails some well-deserved love. Whether you're after something familiar or looking to try something new, Frankie's cocktail list has you covered. A classic Old Fashioned might be your go-to or why not choose from the menu's four fruity margarita variations. For something off the beaten path, consider the Penicillin or the Porn Star martini. And like everything else at Frankie's, the wine list is carefully crafted, filled with natural drops selected to pair beautifully with the bar menu. Eats and sweets are as plentiful and well-made as Frankie's cocktails, with the stand out being the house-made gnocchi – available for dinner or dessert (yes, you read that correctly). A variety of classic bar bites like garlic bread, bruschetta and olives are also on hand for peckish punters, but if you're looking for something more substantial, try the mushroom truffle arancini, the tomato carpaccio, or the stand out vodka beans on toast. Sydney's small bar scene is one of the best in the world, but behind this reputation is a collective of tireless bartenders pushing the envelope of what a bar can and should be. "Negronis have been my favourite drink for as long as I can remember," says Overton. "Three years ago, I set out to create the tastiest vermouth possible, and I'm proud to say I did it. You won't find a negroni like Frankie's anywhere else".
Odd Culture, the team behind Woolloomooloo favourite The Old Fitz and Newtown's Odd Culture (one of Sydney's best bars) brought The Duke of Enmore to life with a reboot of massive program of live music, top-notch pub menu and not-your-average pub drinks list. The 1870-built Duke of Enmore boasts an Australiana-meets-American dive bar vibe, with a pool table instead pokies and a moody al fresco beer garden. The main bar features a sleek two-tonne polished-concrete bar top with spotted gum cladding. But the comforting, vaguely daggy pub feel hasn't gone anywhere. On the walls you'll find an array of thrifted paintings, and despite the elevated menu, the dining room is simple and unpretentious. The kitchen centres around woodfire- and charcoal-grilled eats. Salt and vinegar potato gems, garlic cob loaf and suppli with mushroom bolognaise and spicy marinara sauce are all there to kick off your meal, alongside the pub's signature Duke Burger featuring a 200-gram angus patty, double cheese, burger sauce and onion. The drinks list is a tightly edited selection of stellar natural wines, plenty of independent beers including Odd Culture's own Boothy Baby collaboration with 4 Pines, alcoholic slushies and picklebacks. The final element of The Duke is live music. It's the closest boozer to the Enmore Theatre and for pre-gig beers and post-gig debriefs, it's hard to beat and ranks among our list of the best pubs in Sydney. Appears in: The Best Pubs in Sydney Where to Find the Best Steaks in Sydney
The internet may have delivered on its promise of infinite information, available at any point in time. But there's no substitute for sinking into the couch with a good book. There's also nothing like discovering a new read at your local bookshop. So, we've tracked down some of the best Sydney bookshops to help you find your next great read. Despite ebooks, online book companies and Netflix, these independent Sydney booksellers are still winning bundles of readers' love with their quirky collections, smart recommendations and cosy nooks. And don't worry, a heap of them are set up to deliver your next great read direct to your door.
If you've ever found yourself pressed up against the windows at Gelato Messina's Marrickville HQ wondering what exactly is going on behind the scenes, the cult gelato brand is now making it easier to find out. New dates for its Messinaville factory tours have just gone on sale, inviting guests onto the floor of its glass-fronted production hub at 1 Rich Street. Messina's purpose-built headquarters has been designed with transparency in mind, with a public viewing gallery letting passersby watch production at any hour of the day or night. The tour takes that access a step further, offering a guided look inside the factory where the team makes everything from gelato bases and dulce de leche to cakes and chocolate from scratch. Running once a month on Wednesday evenings from 6–7pm, the experience is part factory walkthrough, part food deep dive and part tasting session. Guests can expect to visit the test kitchen, chocolate room and freezer, while also getting a closer look at the machinery and processes behind one of Australia's best-known gelato operations. There are currently three new dates on sale: Wednesday, April 15; Wednesday, May 13; and Wednesday, June 17, 2026. Tickets cost $60 per person and include multiple tastings, plus a final skip-the-queue scoop at the store before you head off. If you're after a more elaborate night out, Messina is also continuing its dinner-and-tour experience in partnership with Erin, the creative restaurant housed inside Messinaville. That option starts with a welcome drink and factory tour, then moves into a four-course dinner featuring exclusive Erin dishes and a one-off Messina dessert. Head to the Gelato Messina website to book your spot on a Messinaville factory tour or check out the Erin dinner-and-tour experience. Images: supplied Subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter to get stories just like these in your inbox.
City Recital Hall will host a high-octane reimagining of a sci-fi classic this March, when Hear My Eyes — Terminator 2: Judgment Day lands in Sydney for a one-night-only anniversary special. Celebrating 35 years of James Cameron's cyberpunk blockbuster, the immersive event pairs a 4K screening of the original theatrical cut with a live electronic score and laser show, transforming the film into a full-scale audiovisual experience. Presented by Melbourne collective Hear My Eyes — which has previously reimagined films including Two Hands, Pan's Labyrinth and Hellraiser — the event sees Belgian techno producer Peter Van Hoesen performing a newly composed live score that promises to be cerebral and bass-heavy. He'll be joined by the Melbourne Electronic Sound Studio (MESS) Synthesiser Ensemble, while Australian artist Robin Fox adds precision laser choreography that echoes the film's exploration of human-machine duality. Released in 1991, Terminator 2: Judgment Day remains one of the most influential action films ever made. The winner of three Academy Awards, the film was celebrated as much for its groundbreaking visual effects and captivating action sequences as for its ever-relevant themes of technology and humanity. This immersive screening offers a new way to experience one of cinema's most enduring thrill rides, inviting fans and newcomers alike to relive the Connors' fight against Skynet in a way that feels as bold and urgent as it first did 35 years ago. Image Credit: Supplied
Movie lovers of Australia, rejoice: New York-born arthouse cinema chain Angelika Film Centre is making the leap Down Under. A film-showing favourite in the US since 1989, starting in Soho and expanding to nine American locations since, the brand is launching its first-ever Aussie location on Thursday, August 24. In fact, when it opens its doors in Brisbane, it'll mark the chain's first picture palace outside of the USA. First announced earlier in 2023, and now set to welcome in filmgoers to its Woolloongabba site, Angelika Film Centre's Australian debut will land in Woolloongabba, in the inner-city suburb's South/City/SQ precinct. On offer: an eight-screen, 400-seat cinema complex that spans 2500 square metres. Three of those screens are SoHo Lounge cinemas, which means full-recliner seating, table service, and access to the SoHo Lounge Bar for wine, spirits and signature cocktails. When it starts ushering in patrons, Angelika Film Centre will screen a heap of current hits, with Asteroid City, BlackBerry and Gran Turismo: Based on a True Story all on its launch slate. Yes, so is Barbenheimer, aka Barbie and Oppenheimer. Plus, viewers can check out advance screenings of Past Lives before it officially releases the following Thursday. And, in excellent news for your wallet, the cinema is doing $10 tickets for all sessions — including SoHo Lounge — across its opening week. The above lineup will be joined by the likes of Theatre Camp, Biosphere, My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3, Ego: The Michael Gudinski Story, A Haunting in Venice and Scrapper in coming weeks, following the style of programming that's served the chain well in the US. In New York, Angelika Film Centre's clout in the independent, foreign and specialty film space has seen it help make titles like Lady Bird, Moonlight, I, Tonya, Pain & Glory and Free Solo box-office hits. Woolloongabba's outpost also has retrospective flicks such as Searching for Sugar Man, Roman Holiday, Fight Club, Fargo and The Third Man on its slate. And, it'll do gin-inspired sessions, with Casablanca, The Great Gatsby and Casino Royale all locked in. "We look forward to joining the Angelika family, and being part of the exceptional reputation that comes with the Angelika name. More so we are incredibly pleased that we get to open our doors in such an impressive and elegant complex as South/City/SQ. We are really looking forward to being part of the community" said Mark Douglas, Reading International's Australia and New Zealand Managing Director, with Angelika Film Centre hitting Australia via Reading Cinemas Group. The venue has been in the works since 2017, and also boasts a lolly station among its snack selection. And yes, it's a case of another week, another Australian-premiere movie experience landing in southeast Queensland, after Event Cinemas launched its 270-degree ScreenX setup on the Robina in mid-August. In Brisbane specifically, new cinemas have been popping up with frequency over the past decade, including New Farm Cinemas, The Elizabeth Picture Theatre, Red Hill Cinemas, Dendy Coorparoo, Reading Newmarket and Reading Jindalee. There's no word yet as to whether Angelika Film Centre has more Aussie sites in its future. Film lovers in other cities, cross your popcorn-grabbing fingers. [caption id="attachment_893537" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Markus Ravik[/caption] Angelika Film Centre will open at level one, 160 Logan Road, Woolloongabba, on Thursday, August 24 — head to the cinema's website for tickets and further details.
Don your birthday suit. Get your kit off. Disrobe. You're going swimming — the way nature intended. Like Michelangelo said: "What spirit is so empty and blind that it cannot grasp the fact that a human foot is more noble than the shoe, and the human skin more beautiful than the garment with which it is clothed?" So — you heard the man — it's time to get nude. And because it's not exactly legal to do it just anywhere, here are five beaches where your feet and skin can embrace their noble, beautiful selves, without inciting the wrath of the law. [caption id="attachment_556370" align="alignnone" width="1280"] National Parks NSW[/caption] LADY BAY BEACH, SOUTH HEAD We have the late Neville Wran to thank for all the naked bodies at this glorious stretch of sand, which is tucked into the harbour just north of Watsons Bay. In 1976, as Premier of New South Wales, he legalised going in the buff here, turning Lady Bay into one of Australia's first legal naturist beaches. The easiest way to get there is via ferry from Circular Quay to Watsons Bay Wharf, from where it's an easy one-kilometre walk. Those pesky clothes might well be weighing you down — but do try to keep them on 'til you hit the sand. [caption id="attachment_556382" align="alignnone" width="1280"] National Parks NSW[/caption] COBBLERS BEACH, MIDDLE HEAD This 100-metre strip of sand, flanked by rocks, is located just north of Middle Head and 700 metres east of Balmoral. It's best known as the starting point for the Sydney Skinny. Heading into its fourth year on February 28, this event involves hundreds of people stripping off, diving in and swimming 900 metres around a diamond-shaped course. But you can take a dip in the raw there any time. Park at the end of Middle Head Road and follow the signs marked Cobblers Beach. [caption id="attachment_556386" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Ernest McGray Jnr. via Flickr[/caption] OBELISK BEACH, MIDDLE HEAD Another nudie opportunity awaits you on the southern side of Middle Head. Obelisk Beach is even smaller and more private that Cobblers — plus, it comes with panoramic views of Watsons Bay. Drive to the car park at the crossroads of Middle Head Road and Chowder Bay Road. Walk along the latter, until you see a marked track on the left. Follow the path downwards. [caption id="attachment_558305" align="alignnone" width="1280"] National Parks NSW[/caption] WERRONG BEACH, ROYAL NATIONAL PARK Located at the southern end of the Royal National Park, this is one of the most remote and wild beaches on the list. Getting there takes a bit of effort, though — it's a two-kilometre walk each way, down a steep path, starting from Otford Lookout. That said, you'll pass through some stunning scenery, taking in sandstone rock formations and lush rainforest, with cabbage tree palms and ferns. The beach isn't recommended for swimming, as the surf is pretty rough, rippy and unpatrolled by lifeguards — clothed or unclothed. [caption id="attachment_558306" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Webaware via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] BIRDIE BEACH, CENTRAL COAST To fit a naked dip into a Central Coast weekender, head to Birdie Beach. It's located between Wybung Head and the Budgewoi Peninsula, and is backdropped by the Munmorah State Conservation Area. You can drive straight there along Birdie Beach Drive and even camp the night at nearby Freemans campground. Or, to add a hike to your beach visit, walk along the Geebung Heath Track, off Wybung Head Road. Top image: Dollar Photo Club
These viewers are in love: by the time that the first episode of Invisible Boys ends, pressing play on the next is a necessity, not a choice. Readers fell for the story of small-town Australian LGBTQIA+ teens grappling with who they really are in a remote community where everyone thinks that they know everyone courtesy of Holden Sheppard's award-winning 2019 novel. Now, thanks to an adaption created and directed by filmmaker Nicholas Verso (Boys in the Trees), streaming audiences are there with them. As a ten-part Stan series, Invisible Boys sets its action in 2017, as the same-sex marriage plebiscite is occurring, and as four young men in Geraldton in Western Australia navigate their identities, hopes, dreams and desires — and who they keep being told that they're meant to be. Consider the show's cast in love with this tale of coming of age and coming out in rural Australia, too. Chatting with Joseph Zada (Total Control), Aydan Calafiore (The Voice) and Zach Blampied (New Gold Mountain) means hearing about the genuine rapport that they formed as three of the eponymous Invisible Boys. Speaking with Pia Miranda (Windcatcher), who portrays one of the high school-aged lead characters' disapproving mothers, means discovering how significant it is for the star to again be helping to give an underrepresented community an on-screen space, as she did when fellow beloved book Looking for Alibrandi made the leap to cinemas 25 years ago. Anyone watching is already all in by the time that Invisible Boys' sixth episode arrives; however, as the local debutant ball becomes the only thing that anyone in Geraldton is talking about, impacting Zada's Charlie, Calafiore's Zeke and Blampied's Hammer in different ways, it's one of the series' standout chapters. That's equally the case for Zada, Calafiore and Blampied, in no small part due to a deeply affecting sequence where their characters, plus Joe Klocek (Territory) as farm boy Matt, get a rare moment to hang out together at the town's lookout. The bond that's evident between the quartet is genuine. "We just hung out a lot. We spent a lot of time rehearsing, and then I feel like the beautiful thing is that you get to meet these new people and we were lucky enough to get along really well with each other, and you can really see when there's real chemistry between characters on-screen. You can really tell that there's real chemistry between characters," explains Zada. "So if you're really good friends, it shines through. And there's a real connection between all of us and we really get along. It was so lovely to have that lookout scene where we were all together." "We had a lot of fun that night," adds Blampied. "We all talk about it, that lookout scene, it was a highlight for me. I think it's the only moment — I could be wrong — but I think it's the only moment where the four of us get to share the screen together, and all be talking and communicating and having a laugh, and really feeling like we are the invisible boys. We really find our people in that moment," notes Calafiore. Her character Anna, Zeke's mum, isn't a part of it, but Miranda was also moved: "it's beautiful, that scene — it brought tears to my eyes," she tells Concrete Playground. As Charlie, Zada plays a yearning and hurting soul who lives for My Chemical Romance, and for his dream of getting out of town when his punk band hits it big. When the series starts, he isn't living for himself, though, as he struggles with the death of his father when he was a kid, and hides his sexuality from his friends and family while making the most of hookup apps. Zeke and Hammer attend the same school: the former is the studious youngest son of a conservative Italian Australian family, where nothing he ever does is good enough; the latter is the resident Aussie Rules gun with his entire future as the next Indigenous AFL superstar mapped out. While Charlie has come out by the time that episode two starts, and is starting to connect with Matt and experiencing the rollercoaster that is falling in love, his peers have their own paths to chart. Heartfelt, raw, resonant, committed to rejecting the Hollywood view of the gay experience: as it swings between aching pain and amusing chaos, plus complicated decisions and life's messes and joys alike, they all apply to Invisible Boys. Zada, Calafiore, Blampied and Miranda want viewers to find hope in the series, and to see themselves in it, no matter their own personal journey. "I hope it inspires young people, young queer people, to be themselves, and let people know that if you're feeling alone, you're not alone — there's still people out there," offers Blampied, who took inspiration from Moonlight for his part and, like Hammer here, is no stranger to footy. "I think it'll obviously find its community, but I want everyone from every background and community to watch the show and give it a go," adds Zada, who is next treading where James Dean once did, playing the same character as the late, great icon in a new version of East of Eden. "There's a lot of topics that we cover — I'm sure everyone will have their own takeaways from it". In his TV acting debut after previously gracing the stage in Fangirls and Jagged Little Pill the Musical, and with an aim to continue to pursue both music and acting, Calafiore shares similar sentiments. "My takeaways from the show, from my time shooting and then even watching a couple of the episodes, was naturally the representation. We want people to see themselves in all of the characters, take what they need from everybody and feel like they can see themselves on the screen," he notes. "But I found with Zeke, my big takeaway was that you're not alone. Even though these boys are in this small town, everyone knows everyone but they feel so, so alone and so marginalised and so in their own little bubbles that they can't be themselves, and I think the show really goes through that and shows that emotion really, really strongly — then coming again to that lookout scene, it's the real moment where you're like 'wow, I'm not alone, even though it can feel like it and it feels like the entire world is against me'. There is a light out there somewhere and you just have to find that. You find your people. It's not always who, not that you get stuck with, but it's not always who you surround yourself with. And once you find that it's such a breath of fresh air. So that was a huge takeaway for me, that you're not as alone as you might feel." We also chatted with Zada, Calafiore, Blampied and Miranda about what initially excited them about being part of Invisible Boys, digging into their characters and pushing back against Hollywood's take on the gay experience — and about Zada balancing Charlie's fierce spirit and vulnerability, the complexities of Blampied's task given that there's never been an out gay or bisexual men's AFL-level player, how Calafiore approached Zeke's conflict between being his authentic self and his family, and Miranda serving up another on-screen Tomato Day. On What Initially Excited Zada, Calafiore, Blampied and Miranda About Being Part of Invisible Boys Zach: "The thing that really jumped out at me was just when I got the brief and I saw who the character was portrayed to be, and he was a narcissist and a bully and a jock, and had a big ego. I loved that, so I wanted to play that. But he also has a very sweet side, so it was nice to dive into the two." Joseph: "I really love the character of Charlie. I read the book after the first audition, and fell in love with this story and the characters. And I think it's also it was just so unique to see a story like this as an Australian TV series. It has a really important message and covers a lot of really prominent topics." Pia: "I think for me, I love being a part of something. This is definitely going to be a show where young people will see themselves reflected back for the first time. There's going to be some young people in remote parts of Australia who've never really felt represented on-screen. And so when you get to be a part of that, that's very exciting. I got my start in a film where that had that effect. There were a lot of young migrant people that saw themselves reflected back on-screen for the first time, so it's nice to sort of carry on that tradition. It was really beautiful and exciting. I don't think we've had an LGBTQI story set in — I mean, I might be wrong — but set in a rural town." Aydan: "I think you're right. I'm pretty sure it's the first, especially to come out of WA, a Western Australian-born kind of story. It's also just nice to be a part of something that you know will be a little bit of a conversation point and a conversation starter. I think it's really important for shows like this to be given the platform that Stan's given us just to encourage conversation around some of the tougher topics that shows don't usually dive into." Pia: "A great moment Nic spoke of was when he sent the first draft to Stan, to Amanda at Stan, and then she came back and said 'I thought you told me it was going to was going to be edgy' — and he went 'oh, you never hear that. You usually hear to tone things down'. And so he had this ability to go away and really just experiment and take chances, and do something risky and exciting." On the Cast's First Reads on Their Characters — and What They Wanted to Help Bring to the Screen Joseph: "For me, it was Charlie's vulnerability. I spoke about that with Nic as well. He's very defiant by nature, but he's got a big heart. He's very rebellious, except he's just looking for love — he's just scared of rejection. So that was the take I took." Zach: "The tough bravado, but what's behind that? That was where all the juicy stuff was, and I got to flesh that out. So it was a privilege — but also vulnerability. I think all the boys in the show are very vulnerable at points." Aydan: "It's tough dynamic, when you think about the fact there are people out there that experience mother-son dynamics like this, where it's not the most supportive and loving. I can't say that I experienced that at home. I had very loving, supportive parents, so it was a big shock to see Pia Miranda being so mean to me." Pia: "It's difficult. It's exciting when you get a role like that, because it's very layered and it's a big challenge to work out how to navigate a role — because you can't go into it being judgmental when you're playing a person, because you need that to just unfold naturally. So it's a nice balance to go 'okay, I need to work out how this woman ticks and what's making her feel this way'. It's nice to be able to go deeper. And I never wanted her to be a cartoon villain, because you don't want people to feel ostracised by the character, even though she is somewhat — in the book she's described as a monster, but I think a lot of that was on the page and I tried to have a little bit of, in quotation marks, fun with it, because I thought that would lighten it a little bit. I think we found it. We had a really great groove together and just working opposite Aydan was just a beautiful experience." Aydan: "The give and take was really nice." Pia: "We found something. You can do a lot of work at home, but then it's when you get on set, if you work with a great young actor, things really can unfold in a beautiful way. If you can have a laugh in-between takes, that really lightens the mood, so you can definitely go deeper and go harder. With some of the stuff, some of the stuff I say is pretty challenging and some of it was challenging for it to come out of my mouth, but I think it's important that there's a character like that in there." Aydan: "Oh, definitely. Having the connection off screen also meant for someone like myself, who doesn't necessarily have too much experience in the screen world, I felt super comfortable going there and feeling like I was being pushed by Anna. I felt really quite comfortable to dive into those darker places of being picked on by my mum." Pia: "And Nic is very caring, the director. So he would constantly check in. So when you feel like everyone's feeling safe on set, you can go deeper and go darker and push it a little harder." On Zada's Balancing Act as Charlie, Swinging Between His Fierce Spirit and His Vulnerability Joseph: "Yeah, it was really crazy. And we didn't shoot and order either, not that really would've helped anything. It's still very much topsy-turvy. But yeah, it was crazy — I think I had something nuts like two or three crying scenes, or at least very emotional scenes, a week. It was a lot to prepare for and was a lot to map out. He's a very animated character, Charlie. And so there obviously was a lot to balance, but I had fun doing it, and it definitely, definitely challenged me as an actor. I don't think I'd be half the actor today if I hadn't been given that opportunity by Nic. You just rip in, as with any other character you play. You do all your backstory and you just work hard. I did a lot about learning about punk music. That was a fun way to me. I use a lot of music in general, but just a learned a lot about My Chemical Romance, which is Charlie's favourite band, and their lead singer. And then just the emotional stuff, I didn't feel like I was too ready for it, but then as soon as you get there on the day and you've done all your backstory, it comes." On Blampied's Task Playing a Gay Aussie Rules Footballer When No IRL Men's Player at AFL Level Has Ever Come Out as Gay or Bisexual Zach: "I really love that question. You're probably one of the first people to ask that. But me and Nic had big convos about that, and how there isn't an openly gay or bisexual AFL player. You look at the dynamics of what they go through and it's crazy to think about. I think my goal with that character, specifically towards the end when we were filming some of those scenes, was to hopefully inspire some people in the future who may be playing footy or maybe really successful at that, to not be ashamed to be themselves. So hopefully my work as an actor resonates with some young folk here out there, and even older fellas that are playing footy at the moment. So hopefully there's a change soon. I've been in change rooms before. I've played footy for most of my life. I know the dynamic in in those locker rooms. I think Hammer's just scared at the end of the day. He's scared of what will happen if he actually chooses to be himself, so he has to put on this act for the people around him and his footy mates, and everything like that." On How Calafiore Navigated Zeke's Struggle to Be His Authentic Self When His Family Have Such Strict Expectations Aydan: "There's a lot of background work that went into the complexities of Zeke. He is super layered and I love that about him, because I think as humans were all pretty layered, so it was nice to dive into something that was meaty and had some substance. So I did a lot of work. I made three character journals, where I just made those little journals as 17-year-old Zeke, but in different moments, different headspaces. So if I knew that I had to dive into a scene where I maybe felt like I was under the thumb of family or friends or school bullies or whatever, I would dive into the pages of feeling trapped and feeling like I couldn't express myself and I don't know what's going on. Then there was moments where I felt like I did get to be myself and I didn't want to keep the keep the energy like I'm feeling trapped — I wanted to let Zeke flow a little bit more — so then I would flip to the pages that it's me being myself, and being unapologetically young and free, and exploring sexuality and all of that. So it was definitely a challenge, but I think there's something nice about getting a challenge as an actor. It means that you really get to dive in and do all the work. Because, I was really worried — I didn't want to be embarrassed, I didn't want to watch it on the screen and be like 'oh, dude, why didn't you go deeper?'. I didn't want to leave anything there on set. So yeah, it was a challenge, but I enjoyed getting my teeth into it." On What It Means to Miranda to Be a Key Part of Another Pioneering Aussie Coming-of-Age Tale — and If Doing Another Tomato Day On-Screen Is a Full-Circle Moment Pia: "Weirdly yes, because I've done Tomato Day twice and they've both been on-screen. I've never done one in real life. So it does a little bit. I mean, I don't — full circle makes me feel like my career is over." Aydan: "Half circle." Pia: "But definitely, when you are in a coming-of-age film and it feels like yesterday that you were the young actor on set, it does bring back memories — and definitely brought up those memories of my first job, and how wonderful the older actors were to me. And so it's very nice to hopefully pass on that tradition of caring and making sure young actors feel safe and supported, because you only really do your best work when you're relaxed and supported. So in that sense, it's really wonderful. But it is strange, because it does come quick. As you age, it comes quick — one day you're the young actor and the next day you're the older matriarch of the set. But also it's not lost on me that there's a privilege in that as well. I feel very lucky that I'm still working 25 years after that film. I feel like sometimes as women, we feel like there's a bit of an expiration date with our careers. So I'm very grateful for the opportunity to still have a meaty role, and to be able to just flex my muscles, which is really wonderful. It means a lot to me to be a part of this story. I've had such a wonderful time working on it. And I also have teenagers myself. I've grown up in an era where young actors were told to stay in the closet because people wouldn't believe them as a romantic lead. And I've lived that experience of seeing my friends go through that. And so to be able to be a part of something groundbreaking and positive and wonderful while I'm watching my young children grow up means a lot. And I think whenever you get to be a part of something that is deep and wonderful and you know is putting good into the world, that's a privilege as well." On Invisible Boys' Aim to Correct the Way That Hollywood Usually Portrays Gay Men and Gay Relationships On-Screen Joseph: "It just meant being more real and being more raw. Everything is very mapped out. Everything you see on TV when it comes to sex, especially nowadays, is thankfully very much well-rehearsed and everybody feels comfortable. But it was long conversations about just how bullshit sex is in any shows, and especially gay sex. There's a lot more to it. It's just like: no. But it makes for this this beautiful raw quality. And humour even, as well." Pia: "I have a lot of friends that I've messaged and gone 'can't wait for you to see this show, you're really going to love it' — because for me, I don't want to speak for the gay experience, but for me, a lot of my friends didn't have that experience where they were in the city and had found their tribe. It was a tricky road to find out where they belonged. I do a lot of work with Dolly's Dream, which is a charity that really deals with the mental health of young people, but especially people who are in rural communities who are feeling isolated. I'm very passionate about that. And so it was nice for me to actually tell a story that did deal with young people and mental health in rural communities who do feel isolated. And I think it'll be so great, because sometimes we just think about kids in the city when we're making art in Australia, and we forget that there's a whole country of people who are living in country towns and are very remote." Aydan: "It's also really special that the project itself is just so unbelievably authentic, being that all of the entire team of writers are all queer, plus obviously Nic Verso as well, so it was very easy to bring the story to life in an authentic way — especially in terms of the intimacy. I think that was a big one for me, was just making sure that it wasn't Hollywoodised. Because I think most young people go into their first time or some kind of intimate moment thinking that there's just going to be fireworks and candles, and there's a little bit of that that gets shown where it's candles and rose petals and quiet music and just the dream experience, but it's really never that. It's always awkward and unsure. And 'is this okay? Is it that? Is it this?'. It's awkward. It's real. It's human. So I think that that's just really an overarching theme of the entire show — that it's human, it's real, it's raw and it's not Hollywoodised. And I think that is something that was evidently really important to all of the writers and Nic, and passed on to all of us. It was important to keep it very authentic." Invisible Boys streams via Stan. Invisible Boys images: David Dare Parker, Stan.
One of Sydney's most visually and sonically impressive venues, the City Recital Hall is always looking to complement its stunning acoustics with an equally exciting program. While its bread and butter are orchestral performances, the venue will often go on a streak of booking more contemporary performers, pushing the boundaries of the type of music you might expect to see in such a classy environment. That's exactly the case with the hall's new contemporary music series 02 | 23, which is not only pulling together a diverse group of musicians ranging from hip-hop legends to upcoming singer-songwriters but will also include the venue's first-ever standing gigs. Following the installation of removable seating in the hall, the inner-city music hub can now accommodate general-admission standing gigs for those that need to move their feet when they're catching live music. Director of Programming at City Recital Hall Stuart Rogers said: "Great music sounds better in a great venue, and as musicians create new ways of presenting new sounds, venues must improve and grow with the culture and technology they're built on. By increasing City Recital Hall's capabilities as a performing arts centre to allow for standing shows, we look to open the venue up to an infinite variety of expanding genres along with a whole new segment of Sydney's live music scene and cultural fabric. More music for the people. Come dance with us." The three shows that will claim the title of the prestigious venue's first standing shows come from three very different musical worlds. On Thursday, June 8 you can catch French disco pioneer Cerrone bringing the inaugural dance floor to the hall. The next night, Friday, June 9, one of the most influential hip-hop duos in the history of the genre, The Pharcyde will be taking to the stage with Masta Ace and Marco Polo in support. And, on Saturday, June 10, local legends Rolling Blackouts Coastal Fever will be arriving with their signature indie rock tunes. [caption id="attachment_899537" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Pharcyde[/caption] They'll all be joining an eclectic cast of characters on the 02 | 23 program that will run throughout June. The lineup includes breathtaking Icelandic folk singer Ásgeir, breakout Nigerian pop musician Obongjayar, plus Cash Savage and the Last Drinks, Ichiko Aoba, Laura Jean, Yazmin Lacey and Amanda Brown. Alongside the removable seating, the City Recital Hall also recently installed a 360-degree spatial audio system, so you can expect these gigs to sound crisp and all-encompassing. It's the same sound system that Bjork used for her Cornucopia shows which she called "the most gorgeous sound I have ever heard in a room". If you're looking to grab a bite to eat after the show, you're also in luck, with the hall sitting directly next to one of the best restaurants in Sydney, Ragazzi. [caption id="attachment_782835" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] Head to the City Recital Hall website to check out the full program of June gigs — including the venue's first-ever general admission standing shows — and to purchase tickets to the shows. Top image: Keith Saunders
Long before the peri-peri craze reached its peak in Australia, Frango had been serving up Portuguese-style charcoal chicken for well over a decade. With its first store opening in Petersham in 1989, the family-run business has just launched its 16th Sydney location, bringing its marinated goodness to the Shire for the first time. Opening the doors in Caringbah on Wednesday, September 24, the founding Fernandes family remains at the helm, resisting a franchise model for something a little more personal. With the lineage migrating from Madeira in Portugal to Angola in Africa, this heritage still rings through its brand of spice and smoke. "We are so proud to finally open our first Shire outpost in Caringbah. Offering our fan favourites along with the launch of our new expanding fried chicken menu and healthy wrap options menu, there really is something for the entire family," says husband and wife directors, Luis and Rima Fernandes. Spanning whole charcoal chickens and vibrant salads to barbecue sweet corn, Frango regulars will know that burgers are the star of the show. The OG Portuguese burger combo remains the go-to order, with creamy mayo and signature chilli sauce making for a flavourful kick. Plus, desserts like Portuguese tarts and crème caramel make for an even more indulgent visit. "We don't have a central kitchen either, unlike our peers in the industry, which means all our food is prepared daily on each site and displayed for our customers to have a truly gourmand experience — it doesn't get any fresher than that!" says Luis and Rima. With the grills and fryers now pumping out big flavours on the daily in Caringbah, Frango is looking ahead to another round of new store openings. While details are being kept hush-hush, expect a Brisbane and Melbourne expansion to be on the cards in the near future. Frango Caringbah is now open daily from 10am–9pm at 344 Kingsway, Caringbah. Head to the website for more information.
For the person who's always between flights, cities or Airbnb check-ins, the best gifts are the ones that make travelling smoother, smarter and a little more stylish. This edit rounds up the essentials they'll actually use — sleek luggage upgrades, smart tech organisers, compact beauty kits and design-minded accessories that hold up to life on the move. Whether they're a habitual weekender or the friend who treats their home like a pit stop, these thoughtful picks blend function with good looks — and won't add unnecessary bulk to their suitcase. Shopping for someone who lives for movies, marathons and home cinema setups? Explore our guide to the best gifts for screen addicts. LED Light Therapy Face Mask, Nanoleaf A travel-friendly LED mask designed for in-flight skincare and on-the-go routines, Nanoleaf's model delivers stronger and more even coverage than others in its price range thanks to triple the LEDs. With multiple clinically backed light modes — from wrinkle-reducing red to inflammation-calming yellow — it's a compact wellness upgrade for frequent travellers. Shop now. Meridian Tote Bag, State of Escape A lightweight and structured fabric tote with rope handles and a detachable shoulder strap. It's the perfect balance between style and function — roomy enough for all the travel essentials and polished enough to match any outfit. Shop now. Heartbreaker Jewellery Case, Status Anxiety A portable pebble leather system to keep precious pieces organised and safe, perfect for jet-setters who never leave the house without their accessories. Shop now. Handheld Steamer, Philips A sleek 1400W steamer that smooths wrinkles on cotton, linen or other delicate fabrics that don't travel well. This bad boy fires up within 35 seconds — ideal for a quick outfit refresh. Shop now. Fujifilm X-T30 III, Fujifilm An uber compact yet powerful camera that comes with 20 film-like colour profiles. Our editor's verdict: it just might replace your digicam. Shop now. Avedon Dark Havana Sunglasses, P. Johnson An artsy tortoiseshell frame, handmade in Italy. Essential for brooding mysteriously at the airport. Shop now. Tech Kit, Bellroy A recycled ripstop pouch where all your wires, chargers and tech bits can live neatly — so nothing gets tangled or lost in a jam-packed carry. Shop now. LM Workroom Hat, Lee Matthews A soft, structured cotton bucket hat that takes up minimal packing room. Ideal for the loved one who disappears to warmer shores during winter. Shop now. Isla Round Luggage Tag, The Daily Edited A luggage tag for the frequent flyer might be on the nose, but a monogrammed leather one can be a luxe surprise. Shop now. Expandable Checked Bag, July If your mate's luggage is on its last legs, upgrade them with something that's built to last. This one's got a compression system and a built-in laundry bag that makes packing feel a little less chaotic. Shop now. The Watch Roll, Maison De Sabre A must-have for those who are serious about wristwear: a full-grain leather case that keeps timepieces scratch-free on the road. Shop now. Airbnb Gift Cards, Airbnb An Airbnb gift card is basically a ticket to anywhere. Perfect for the friend who always "need a break", whether they're dreaming of a beachside villa, city loft or countryside cabin. Shop now. Ceramic Reusable Bottle, Frank Green Any water bottle from Frank Green beats overpriced, single-use water bottles from the airport, but this design's triple insulation and ceramic lining help water stay cool and fresh. Shop now. Rio Passport Holder, Wolff Studios Three card slots, two passport pockets and a boarding pass sleeve – all in one buttery soft, RFID-secure leather piece. Shop now. Universal Strap, Rikka Save a pal the 'where's my phone?!' panic with this candy-coloured phone strap that attaches to any phone. Shop now. The Signature Pouch, Ouvert A plush cherry pouch that holds every serum, cream and lippie you need – with waterproof lining to keep mishaps contained. Shop now. The Christmas Ginger Shampoo Gift Bundle, Cooki Housed in travel-friendly metal tins and tucked into a chic woven bag of natural fibres, this ginger-infused haircare duo offers stylish, zero-waste hair washes on the go. Shop now. 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.
Escaping is the aim of every holiday. When you temporarily swap your own four walls for somewhere further afield, your daily worries should float away. Tokyo in general is great at evoking that sensation; however, the best place in the Japanese capital for forgetting that real life exists is digital-only art gallery teamLab Borderless, where being surrounded by and immersed in art is taken literally. After being closed for a year and a half to move to a new location, this must-visit spot on any Japan itinerary has finally reopened. As at Friday, February 9, teamLab Borderless now resides at Azabudai Hills with an array of stunning works — some brand-new, some familiar, all glorious. So, if your 2024 resolutions involve seeing spectacular art and travelling, this is one of the best ways to tick both boxes. Everything from bubbles and jelly to flowers and oceans now awaits, plus waterfalls and a tea house pouring cuppas adorned with blooming flowers as well. When it initially launched in 2018, teamLab Borderless instantly became a Tokyo favourite. It was also anointed the most-visited single-artist museum in the world during its first year of operation. Expect that to happen again in central Tokyo, where it has relocated to from its past Odaiba base. Sadly, you no longer need to cross over Tokyo's gorgeous Rainbow Bridge to get there — but your eyes will have much to feast on inside. If you were lucky enough to mosey around the OG spot before the pandemic, you'll know that the Borderless experience involves vibrant, constantly moving, always-changing interactive digital art keeps that keeps glowing and rearranging before your eyes. As the name makes plain, nothing is fixed or static here. Pieces move from one space to the next, and interact with other works. Sometimes, several different projections and installations mingle together. For attendees, peering at the end results isn't merely a passive experience, with the venue encouraging patrons to "wander, explore and discover". This is a place where terms like breathtaking, kaleidoscopic and delightful are all earned, and where the art is worth a trip to Tokyo to see all by itself. Borderless 2.0 spans both evolved and brand-new artworks. Accordingly, even if you've been before at its old digs, you won't just be seeing the same things (even though they're definitely worth enjoying more than once). Standout pieces include the jaw-dropping Light Sculpture series, which cycles through an array of light formations and colours, as well as an eye-catching mirrored infinity room-style space titled Microcosmoses — although, to be fair, everything is a standout here. Among the world-premiere installations, there's also Bubble Universe: Physical Light, Bubbles of Light, Wobbling Light, and Environmental Light, which is comprised of spheres that look like soap bubbles and jelly, and moves through various colours. With Flowers and People — Megalith Crystal Formation, you can spy florals bud and blossom, then wither and decay, repeating that pattern endlessly. And thanks to Black Waves — Megalith Crystal Formation, the sea gets a nod. Attendees can also enjoy Giant Solidified Spark, which is a sphere made from rays of light — plus Wall Without a Wall, which you'll see as a wall even though nothing physical exists. For younger visitors, plus those young at heart, Sketch Ocean turns drawings into art that swims before your eyes. And after proving a hit at the original site, the tea house ensures that every time that you sip a hot beverage in future will feel flatout average — blossoming projections on your cup while you drink will do that. teamLab might be best-known for its Tokyo site, but it doesn't only operate in Japan. A second teamLab Borderless has already been open in Shanghai since 2019, and others are slated for Jeddah in Saudi Arabia and Hamburg in Germany — the former without an exact opening date, the latter slated to launch in 2025. The organisation also operates a different museum in Macao, and has its first teamLab Phenomena on the way for the Saadiyat Cultural District in Abu Dhabi, again targeting a 2024 launch. The list goes on, with teamLab's works a drawcard wherever they pop up. teamLab Borderless Tokyo: MORI Building Digital Art Museum is now open at its new location at Azabudai Hills, Garden Plaza B B1F, 1-2-4 Azabudai, Minato-ku, Tokyo — for more information, visit the museum's website. Images: teamLab, Exhibition view of teamLab Borderless: MORI Building DIGITAL ART MUSEUM, 2024, Azabudai Hills, Tokyo © teamLab, courtesy Pace Gallery.
In the late 70s, when Texas housewife, mother of two and popular church choir singer Candy Montgomery had an affair with fellow congregation member Allan Gore, commenting about her being a scarlet woman only had one meaning. If anyone other than Elizabeth Olsen was stepping into her shoes in HBO miniseries Love & Death — which streams via Binge in Australia from Thursday, April 27 and Neon in New Zealand from Friday, April 28 — it would've remained that way, too; indeed, Jessica Biel just gave the IRL figure an on-screen portrayal in 2022 series Candy. Of course, Olsen is widely known for playing the Wanda Maximoff aka the Scarlet Witch in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, as seen in WandaVision and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness most recently. So, mention 'scarlet' in a line of dialogue around her, and it calls attention to how far she is away from casting spells and breaking out superhero skills. And she is, although she's also again playing a woman succumbing to her darkest impulses. There's a reason that Montgomery keeps fascinating Hollywood, dating back to 1990 TV movie A Killing in a Small Town (a film directed by Stephen Gyllenhaal, dad to Ambulance's Jake and The Deuce's Maggie). There's also a reason that she's been the subject of plenty of true-crime podcast episodes since — and had journalists John Bloom and Jim Atkinson writing the 1983 non-fiction book Evidence of Love: A True Story of Passion and Death in the Suburbs before that, plus Texas Monthly articles 'Love & Death on Silicon Prairie, Part I & II'. On June 13, 1980, Allan's wife Betty was murdered with an axe. She wasn't just killed; she was bludgeoned 41 times. Within days, Candy was a suspect. From there, she was accused, arrested and put on trial. And, she ultimately admitted swinging the blade, albeit with a caveat: that after her friend discovered her relationship with Allan, Candy was defending herself. It's with pluck and perkiness that Olsen brings Candy to the screen again, initially painting the picture of a perfect suburban wife and mum. She keeps exuding those traits when Candy decides that she'd quite fancy an extra-marital liaison with Allan (Jesse Plemons, The Power of the Dog) — slowly winning him over, but setting ground rules in the hope that her husband Pat (Patrick Fugit, Babylon) won't get hurt, nor Betty (Lily Rabe, Shrinking) as well. The quartet have known each other for years when Love & Death starts, through their faith and due to their pre-teen daughters Jenny (TV debutant Amelie Dallimore) and Alisa (Harper Heath, Forever and a Day). Then Allan bumps into Candy during a volleyball game, which gets her thinking about them slipping between the sheets. "He smelled like sex," she tells her pal Sherry Cleckler (Krysten Ritter, El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie), convincing herself about getting adulterous with every word. Candy is straightforward when she propositions Allan, as they both are when they meet for strategy sessions to work through the pros, cons and parameters of cheating on their partners together. A sense of foreboding hangs in the air, though; for viewers that don't know the outcome when first sitting down to the seven-episode series, Betty's bloody end is referenced in the first instalment. Much that eventuates between Candy and Allan until things get violent is a tale as old as time, with what was meant to be a purely carnal liaison becoming far more complex as affection blossoms. She feels stuck in a rut with the mild-mannered Pat, seeing her time with Allan as an adventure. He's so accustomed to a reserved form of romance with Betty that he doesn't even know how to French kiss. And when Allan and Betty choose to work on their marriage at a counselling weekend, Candy can't hide her jealously while she minds the pair's children. As it leads up to Betty's death, Love & Death also surveys the local scandal when beloved pastor Jackie Ponder (Elizabeth Marvel, Mrs Davis) leaves for another town, with the younger Ron Adams (Keir Gilchrist, Atypical) her replacement. Jackie's move robs Candy of one of her closest confidants, while Ron's arrival, his visible youth and the changes he's intent on making upsets Betty. Series creator David E Kelley could've told this tale without dipping into church business, but this subplot is pivotal to his take on the story. He isn't just retelling the murder, as so many other projects have explored before. Rather, he's drawn in by who these women were in their everyday lives, and by the fact that they're ordinary folks with routine dramas before the worst occurs. Of late, prolific TV producer and writer Kelley has carved himself a niche with twisty tales about existences upended, beginning with Big Little Lies, then following with The Undoing and Nine Perfect Strangers (Nicole Kidman, the star of all three, is also an executive producer on Love & Death). With directors Lesli Linka Glatter (Homeland) and Clark Johnson (Mayor of Kingstown), he isn't interested in sensationalising his latest narrative, instead crafting a series about a gruesome crime with restraint and sensitivity. That's one of the factors making yet another version of Candy and Betty's encounter so gripping — that, and the show's outstanding performances. Indeed, no past iteration has boasted Kelley behind the scenes, or the stellar Olsen in career-best form at its centre. When Love & Death turns its attention to the inevitable law-and-order proceedings, Kelley also slides easily into one of his preferred modes: legal dramas. He's been bringing such shows to TV since late-80s/early-90s hit LA Law, with his resume also featuring everything from The Practice, Ally McBeal and Boston Legal to Goliath and The Lincoln Lawyer — and an episodic version of Presumed Innocent in the works as well. It's no wonder, then, that She Said's Tom Pelphrey is so magnetic as Candy's lawyer Don Crowder, who jumps into criminal defence for the first time with an immensely difficult case. Although Love & Death is never merely a courtroom series, it's canny about deepening its character study of Candy while she's protesting her innocence by self-defence, and in putting the attitudes and figures around her under a magnifying glass as her life becomes news fodder. Even if there wasn't a 'scarlet woman' reference to remind audiences that Olsen isn't in the MCU here, her complicated lead portrayal makes that plain. Whether she's being bubbly, dutiful, calculating or unsettling, she's terrific, especially in the mid-series episode that depicts Candy's last meeting with Betty, then shows her returning to her errands afterwards. Olsen is particularly masterful at grappling internally with Candy's choices and emotions right in front of viewers' eyes — see also: the spark that clicks when she chooses to pursue Allan, and her reactions under interrogation — and with an also- (and always-) excellent Plemons, is similarly exceptional at selling the love part of series' title. Love & Death never forgets that it's about murder, or who is the victim, but it's always about people rather than headlines. Check out the trailer for Love & Death below: Love & Death streams via Binge in Australia from Thursday, April 27 and Neon in New Zealand from Friday, April 28. Images: Jake Giles Netter/HBO Max.
The gardening bug is a hard one to shake. What might start off with growing some Woolies parsley in the windowsill above the sink can quickly evolve into obsessively spraying Seasol on your asters and getting elbow-deep in dirt to dig up this month's potato harvest. Our green thumbs seem to have only gotten greener ever since we were stuck at home during the pandemic — when local pant stores were assisting our green-thumbed obsessions with click-and-collect and delivery options throughout the city. And for many of us, this love for taking care of plant babies continued well beyond such stuck-at-home times. So, whether you're wanting some tips on affordable places to get a start on your own patch of green, or you're eager to know where you can find the best variety of natives and endangered plants, here are the top places to buy and order plants in Sydney.
With over six decades under its belt, Surry Hills' The Forresters has quite the watering hole history. While the Foveaux Street site has housed a pub since the 1950s, in recent years you'd be more familiar with its $10 steak nights, value-packed happy hour deals and laidback hangs in those plaid-upholstered booths. Following an extensive $1.5-million renovation, this Surry Hills stalwart — now officially called Forrester's — has entered a whole new phase of its life under new owners. You'll probably recognise Applejack Hospitality as the group behind CBD newcomer Hester's, though Applejack is also responsible for popular venues including Neutral Bay's SoCal, bar and restaurant Bopp & Tone and Endeavour Tap Rooms in The Rocks. The latest Surry Hills takeover will mark the group's eighth venue. Forrester's now houses three distinct dining spaces: Phylli's restaurant, a public bar and an upstairs entertainment venue. Unlike the kitschy fit-out of old, Phylli's gives off luxe vibes aplenty. Think heaps of greenery and natural light paired with fresh timber finishes and a botanical mural by Sydney artist Mielo. The public bar, on the other hand, maintains a bit of that old-time pub feel, with the exposed beams, hardwood floors and tri-folding timber sash windows all kept in tact. Head upstairs and you'll find a third bar and dining space sitting alongside separate booth seating. This area is primed for the venue's weekly trivia and comedy nights. [caption id="attachment_788402" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Yasmin Mund[/caption] For eats, patrons can enjoy a menu of snacks and share plates across all three venues. But it's not the classic Aussie pub fare you're used to — apart from that $10 steak special, which will return every Monday night. Instead, Head Chef Jon Barrios and Executive Chef Jason Roberson have created a menu that focuses on flavours from North, Central and South America. Think beef cheek empanadas (422), fried crab cakes ($24) with Creole-style tartare, crispy chicken wings ($18) doused in Louisiana hot sauce and pork belly cubano sandwiches ($24). In Phylli's, a succinct menu of larger plates is also on offer, and those include the grilled barramundi ($29) topped with a pumpkin mole and the slow-cooked lamb barbacoa ($69) served with freshly made corn tortillas. A few fancy steaks make the menu too, including a $39 wagyu rump and a $34 chargrilled sirloin. Phylli's also boasts its own dedicated spritz menu (all $18) that will change seasonally. At the moment, varieties include ginger, mandarin, blood orange and mixed berry. Otherwise, the three venues share a menu of classic cocktails with a twist, like the spiced grapefruit margaritas ($18), coconut espresso martinis ($18) and cold brew manhattans ($22). The public bar also focuses on Aussie craft beer, with local legends Grifter, Sauce Brewing Co and Willie The Boatman all up for grabs. Images: Yasmin Mudn
A few years ago an idiotic politician declared that Sydney simply didn't want small bars like Melbourne's, where people could quietly read a book while drinking a glass of chardonnay in a black skivvy. That comment has been proven false again and again, and now Sydney is graced by establishments like Love, Tilly Devine, the perfect small bar to sit and read a book over some chardonnay. In a skivvy, if you want. The people at Love, Tilly Devine are excited. They're excited about their wine, about the future of their neighbourhood, and about their food. The name of the bar is an ode to East Sydney's past and a tribute to an obscure 1930s brothel madam who performed acts of local charity. The bar is tucked away in a Darlinghurst alley, with open windows and exposed brick walls and cosy to the point that I spotted one waiter go outside into the street and refill somebody's glass through the window. Don't come to Love, Tilly Devine if you want to get drunk. There are other places to do that. This is a place you can bring a date and drink quality, not quantity. This is a wine lover's bar for people who are willing and able to spend their money on it. The staff are happy to help out if you feel a bit befuddled by the seemingly limitless selection (the wine list currently sits at just under 300 varieties), and with the perfect seasonal food to go with it. Prices come per bottle, so it's tricky if you just want a glass; the cheapest glass of wine from the Riesling list, for example, is $16. But while it might be on the dear side, Love, Tilly Devine is a welcome addition to Sydney's thriving small bar scene. Image: Nikki To. Updated Tuesday, March 21 2023. Appears in: The Best Bars in Sydney
For the people who care deeply about beautiful things — the ones who know their glassware silhouettes, have opinions on timber grains or can spot a well-cut bag from across a room — design-forward gifts always land best. This year's edit brings together thoughtful pieces from Australian makers and independent studios, spanning sculptural homewares, tactile accessories, sustainable fashion and objects that balance form with function. Whether they're curating their space piece by piece or simply appreciate good design in the everyday, these polished picks offer style, utility and a little artistic flair. Shopping for someone who prefers edible design? Explore our guide to the best small-batch foodie gifts. Balance Vase, Fazeek A sculptural glass vase that plays with symmetry and scale, this two-tone design turns a simple stem into a full display moment. Shop now. The Baguette Bag, Fred Home A bag made purely for carrying a baguette? Equal parts outrageous and totally gorgeous. Shop now. Incense Holder Bundle, Gentle Habits A ceramic holder paired with the brand's signature coastal-inspired incense blends. Shop now. Merino Alpaca Throw in Cobalt, Hommey A luxe throw woven from merino wool and alpaca, in a punchy cobalt tone to instantly elevates any space. Shop now. Ulna Ring (Emerald), Kto Made in Castlemaine, this cuttlefish-cast silver ring is a sculptural addition to any design lover's collection. Shop now. Roman Pool Towel, Baina A premium organic cotton towel featuring Baina's signature checkerboard pattern. Shop now. Sculptural Lobster Candle, Milligram A candle shaped like a lobster — do we need to say more? Witty, sculptural and very giftable. Shop now. Pin Drop Vessel, Leisa Wharington A playful hand-blown glass vessel with mix-and-match stoppers. Make it a bottle, a vase, or simply an objet d'art. Shop now. The Bronzing Duet, Fluff Fluff's unmistakable silver pebble compact, paired with a matching kabuki brush and a refillable bronzing powder. Shop now. Plaid Bag, Pan After A durable, handmade statement bag in bold woven plaid — made from 100 percent recycled nylon. Shop now. MECCA x E Nolan SPF + Lip Balm Beauty Bag Set, MECCA Cosmetica A fashion-meets-beauty collab pairing everyday essentials with a limited-edition scrunchie and pouch. Shop now. Long Stone Servers, Dinosaur Designs Hand-poured in Australia, these resin servers showcase Dinosaur Designs' signature organic forms and rich marbled colour. Shop now. Sakura Outdoor Mat, Sunnup Made from around 100 recycled polypropylene bottles, this picnic mat is as durable as it is chic. Shop now. Organica Day Bag, Brie Leon Spacious enough for daily essentials but refined enough for after-dark plans — and crafted from buttery vegan leather. Shop now. Mother of Pearl Oyster Plate, Jardan Crafted in Melbourne and slipcast to highlight natural texture, this Nattier oyster plate offers a fun take on functional serveware. Shop now. Organic Cotton Bedding in Watson Stripe, Sheet Society Soft, stonewashed organic cotton and quiet ruched detailing give this percale bedding set a refined, lived-in feel. Shop now. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence our recommendations, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
Named for the Creedence Clearwater Revival song, Fortunate Son is the small bar you never thought you needed but will be glad you've found across the road from the Enmore Theatre. It's full of juxtapositions: it's styled like an American dive bar but serves champagne, a premium spirits list and a vast menu of cocktails, including a whole page of martini options. There are also toy tab cars on the counter. Most of the space is taken up by the bar itself, with locals enjoying original cocktails and local brews like Young Henrys. On the cocktail front, there are two menus. One is the Fortunate Ones, full of classic cocktails like a smoked chilli margarita, mint julep or old fashioned. The second is dubbed Fortunate Son's and stars house specials like the champagne daiquiri made with Moet syrup, The Insomnia — a next-level espresso martini with blanco tequila — and the aptly named Smoke and a Pancake, made with Gentleman Jack bourbon and peaty Ardbeg scotch with banana liqueur, maple syrup and cocktail bitters. For something even more special, ask the bartender for the Ramos Gin Fizz. This not-so-secret tipple isn't on the menu but is one of the venue's signature drinks. The Ramos is made with gin, egg whites, cream, simple syrup, lemon and lime juice. It is shaken initially with ice and then without ice in the shaker for a whopping 15 minutes to create a thick, luscious foam. It's then poured into a chilled glass with soda and sprinkled with hundreds and thousands.
If you're looking to experience something that is quintessentially Cronulla, Zinc Bar is it. This local institution hits all the notes: park and ocean views, openair dining, ample greenery, cocktail jugs and a satisfying menu featuring modern Australian classics and Mexican favourites. Arrive in the late afternoon to settle in with a drink and watch the sun set over the ocean. Then, order yourself dinner from the menu that is perfectly suited to the laidback beach vibes of Cronulla including fish tacos with a spicy ginger-tomato salsa and share platters. Acoustic Sundays, the venue's weekly live music series, will keep the Sunday blues out of sight. And the $15 weeknight dinner specials will have you skipping doing the dishes and heading here instead. With the current travel restrictions in place, this is as close as you'll get to Tulum. Images: Mel Koutchavlis
Head into the huge Crown Tower in Barangaroo, bypass the lavish dining options a'Mare and Nobu, and head up the elevator to discover one of Sydney's most impressive spa experiences. Whether you're looking for a facial, nail service, wellness service or a massage, you'll find it here with a heavy dose of luxury. What really elevates the Crown Spa experience is the attention to detail and the wellness journey each guest is taken on. If you're after a massage, you'll be treated to access to the sauna, 360-degree shower and spa bath. This also means you can squeeze a massage into a workday and freshen up afterwards. Your boss will be none the wiser. For a next-level trip to the spa, book yourself in for a package. Crown Spa's Celebration package includes a one-hour relaxation massage and a La Prairie Skin Caviar Essential Facial; while the full three-hour Restoration journey includes body exfoliation, marma massage and an age-defying facial. Top image: George Apostolidis Appears in: The Best Day Spas in Sydney
If you're ever in the Chippendale/Ultimo stretch of Sydney and are craving a quick and delicious feed, one of your best options is Hongdae Pocha — the new KBBQ joint from the Vuza Hospitality team, who are the same team behind South Korean bakery and cafe Buttered. Housed in a heritage-listed former brewery, exposed brick, concrete walls, steel supports and plaques reflect the history of the space, which boasts enough seating for 172 diners on any day. The menu, crafted by Head Chef Haeseung Choi (Firedoor, Jueun), champions the informal and social dining experience of pocha, offering a mix of street-style South Korean eats designed to be shared. "Pocha is a big part of Korean nightlife — it's where food and drink come together in a relaxed, social setting. It's not formal dining, it's about unwinding with drinks and enjoying bold flavours with good company. With Hongdae Pocha, we wanted to capture that same energy for Sydney — approachable, vibrant, and true to the way we eat and socialise back home," said Choi. Highlights on the menu include the umami-laden yukhoe, a Korean beef tartare mixed in chilli paste and served atop a crispy hash brown, and the yetnal tongdak, a whole chicken deep fried and topped half-and-half — one half with a mustard soy glaze and green onion, and the other with a spicy sweet-and-sour blend. The rest of the food menu is filled with street food classics, plates of grill-it-yourself pork and beef with toppings aplenty, seafood pancakes, and ice cream topped with a mix of treats we dare not spoil. Images: Trent Van Der Jagt for Stanley House Studios
One of Melbourne's most celebrated restaurants has arrived in Sydney. Victor Liong's two-hatted Lee Ho Fook is now open at The Porter House Hotel on Castelreagh Street, marking the first Sydney dining room for the chef who helped redefine modern Chinese cuisine in Australia. Since opening in Melbourne in 2013, Lee Ho Fook has become known for Liong's distinctive blend of classical European technique and the depth, diversity and soul of Chinese cooking. The Sydney edition carries that same spirit in a handsome setting of exposed brick, dark-stained hardwood floors and ambient neon that nods to its Melbourne roots. [caption id="attachment_1037786" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nikki To[/caption] The menu reads like a love letter to Chinese regionality, interpreted with Liong's signature restraint. Expect starters like prawn toast topped with Tasmanian sea urchin and a standout crispy eggplant with spiced red vinegar, alongside larger plates such as kung pao Skull Island prawns and Yunnan-style murray cod with chilli cumin spice, garlic and chilli oil. A grill selection turns out proteins cooked over charcoal and served with bibb lettuce, seaweed, Dongbei short-grain rice and house condiments. It's all underpinned by seasonal Australian produce and executed by Head Chef Brad Guest, whose CV includes stints with Martin Benn, Neil Perry and Clare Smyth. The drinks program mirrors the kitchen's mix of precision and playfulness. Sommelier Louella Mathews curates an expansive wine list spanning Australian and European varietals from both emerging and established growers, while the cocktail list leans inventive, from a chilli crisp-spiked margarita to the delightful Sydney Vesper, a mix of Archie Rose vodka and gin, lemon and aniseed myrtles and Hunter Valley semillon. [caption id="attachment_1037785" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Parker Blain[/caption] Two thoughtful pairing options are also available: a global wine journey with drops from the Yarra Valley to Burgundy, and a tea pairing by Arthur Tong of TeaCraft, spotlighting handcrafted brews like blood orange-infused jasmine made in-house, milky oolong from Taiwan and Japanese genmaicha, all designed to complement the menu's layered flavours. The opening also marks a homecoming for Liong, who grew up in Sydney before making the move south — he now plans to divide his time between both cities. It's something of a family affair, too, with Liong's sister Nance Liong (ex-Momofuku Seiobo, Fred's, King Clarence) overseeing day-to-day operations as restaurant manager, bringing warmth and polish to match the food. [caption id="attachment_1037783" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Buffet Digital[/caption] Top images: Nikki To.
A 90s-era Blockbuster Video might play a prominent role in the next big superhero movie headed to cinemas, Captain Marvel, but in Australia, the chain and its bricks-and-mortar outlets will soon be a mere nostalgic memory. The country is currently home to one last Blockbuster outlet in Western Australia, and one of only two remaining on the planet; however the store's owners have just announced that they're shutting up shop. As reported by Community News, Blockbuster Morley in Perth will close its doors at the end of March, with locals able to head in and say farewell for the rest of the month. Speaking with AAP, owner Lyn Borszeky said that the rise of streaming services had impacted the business. "We knew change was coming but were a bit surprised how quickly it affected our customer base once Netflix hit the Australian market." [caption id="attachment_710127" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] Blockbuster Morley[/caption] When the Morley shop says goodbye, just one Blockbuster will remain worldwide. Located in Oregon in the US, Blockbuster Bend earned the title of America's last outlet back in July 2018, when a fellow store in Alaska closed up. It's a far cry from the brand's glory days, aka the late 90s and early 00s, when it had more than 9000 stores worldwide. In Australia, the first Blockbuster store opened in Melbourne in 1991. For Perth folks who haven't completely replaced their physical media collection with a never-ending streaming queue, the Morley shop will also be throwing a closing down sale — the bittersweet part of any video store's last moments. For everyone else, hold on to those memories of spending way too long walking up and down video store aisles, picking movies based on their cover artwork, and taking home towers of plastic cases during school holidays and sleepovers. Scrolling through Netflix isn't quite the same, and doesn't throw up anywhere near as many old gems that you wouldn't have come across otherwise. Via Community News.
Despite taking its name from a raucous, rundown pub in the 80s flick Road House, Double Deuce Lounge isn't a dive bar. Instead, the CBD drinking hole from the Ramblin' Rascal team is a refined cocktail lounge with a touch of '70s porn chic'. No, you won't find Ron Jeremy lounging in one of the burgundy leather booths. Instead, you can expect loud geometric 70s wallpaper laid with vintage film posters, the likes of Marvin Gaye, James Brown and Curtis Mayfield on heavy rotation and a cocktail list that arrives in a Deep Throat-esque VHS cover. The bar's owners, Charlie Lehmann, Sebastian Soto and Dardan Shervashidze, will also be suitably on theme, decked out in safari suits and furry vests. Behind the bar, the team is shaking and stirring signature cocktails, as well as seasonal specials, which travel from the tangy and refreshing Sea Breeze and minty Stinger (with lots of Fernet and Cognac) to the cold brew-spiked Discretionary and a super-fancy take on a gin and soda dubbed Trouble Man. While the cocktails are proverbially stuck in the 70s, the wines and beers are very much 2019. Co-owner of Newtown's P&V Wine and Liquor Mike Bennie has pulled together an extended list of fun and funky drops. Ask the crew to see what they're pouring. Not content with a funky drinks menu, Doule Deuce Lounge also offers a short list of 70s-themed bar snacks including bowls of cabanossi, cheese cubes and French onion dip served with Jatz. Take a funky step back in time at Double Deuce Lounge. Images: Kimberley Low. Updated April 28, 2023.
Take your weekly parkrun (or stroll around the block) to the next level, as New Balance and Sydney-based run crew Unofficial have teamed up to host 'The Biggest Shakeout'. Designed as an easygoing warm-up with a twist ahead of the following day's Sydney Marathon, everyone from high-performance athletes to budding walkers are invited to get a sweat on and connect on Saturday, August 30. Departing from Bradfield Park at 7am, the day's route goes far beyond your usual suburban speedwork session. Instead, you'll cross the Sydney Harbour Bridge on a five-kilometre run bound for Watersedge at Campbell's Store. Then it's time to get stuck into the post-workout celebration that'll make your early start to the weekend more than worth it. Runners can refuel from a floor-to-ceiling bagel wall adorned with tasty bites. Of course, sipping a well-caffeinated treat at the end of a run is the motivation many of us need to rise from bed at the crack of dawn, so it's a good thing Beforeyouspeak Coffee is getting down to brew their high-performance beans. What's more, upbeat DJ and runner Tigerlily will also be spinning tunes. While the thought of that hot coffee might be enough to convince you to get your trainers on, finding that get-up-and-go inspiration will come a little easier with a race-day goodie bag curated by New Balance and Unofficial. Handed out to the first 1500 runners to sign up, you'll find marathon supplies like caffeine and post-race fuel bars, alongside temporary tattoos and more that ensure you look the part while pounding pavement. Yet we haven't even covered this special event's major prize. New Balance and Unofficial are also giving one lucky runner a race bib for the 2025 TCS New York City Marathon, complete with a $3000 travel voucher. To see how hustling through the Big Apple stacks up against the Harbour City, just head to Unofficial's website and submit a one-minute video answering the question: How do you run your way? Entries close at 5pm AEST on Wednesday, August 27. "It's an honour to partner with New Balance to create The Biggest Shakeout," says Chad Cohen, Co-Founder of Unofficial. "This event is all about bringing runners together, celebrating the joy of movement and supporting one another ahead of race day — it truly captures the essence of running: community, connection and fun. We're excited to see everyone come together for what promises to be an unforgettable morning." New Balance and Unofficial's Biggest Shakeout is happening from 7am on Saturday, August 30. Head to the website for more information.
Beloved pub The Erko received a welcome facelift in 2023 and, with it, a refreshed menu that uses produce from its own in-house garden and the Erko Road Community Garden a few doors down. The kitchen is now under the stewardship of head chef Ethan Robinson (ex-Chiswick). Robinson has reimagined the classic pub grub fare with a seasonal menu. Highlights of the starters section include the seared haloumi with quince local honey and fresh rosemary, served in a piping hot cast iron pan; egg yolk-topped steak tartare; and fried chicken sliders with house-made hot sauce and urban honey. For mains, you can't go past the chicken schnitzel or succulent lamb rump plated up with white bean and bacon fricasse. Vegetarians aren't forgotten with the 'Cheeky Pea' falafel burger and casarecce pasta. You can leave things up to the chef and opt for the $45 chef's choice tasting menu, available for groups of two or more, or time your visit to take advantage of one of the daily deals, such as $2 oysters every Saturday and Sunday from 1pm. For dessert, you can choose between the moreish (and massive) pear crumble with vanilla ice cream or the freshly baked peanut butter, dark chocolate and sea salt cookie. If your pooch is with you and hungry, you can order house-made dog biscuits, a muesli bar or even a raw beef tartare for the fancy pups. The crew have a considered collection of wine available in its drinks list and on-site bottle shop. You'll find diverse drops from across Australia, with a few international tipples showing up, plus there are plenty of natty wines and biodynamic drops to choose from. For a proper good deal, grab a one-litre squealer of Alpha Box & Dice vino for just $25 — and when you bring back the bottle, you get $5 off your next refill. The watering hole has plenty of Aussie craft beer alongside the usual draughts and signature and classic cocktails. There are a few intriguing non-alcohol beverages, too. Opt for the house soda made with 'Ethan's leftover syrup', which changes with the seasons, or a twist on an iced tea made with Ireland's favourite brew: Barry's Gold. Perch yourself at the bar, out in the beer garden or at one of the many candlelit seats in the main bar area to enjoy this year-round favourite. Image credit: Steven Woodburn, Orlaith Costello
Don't quite have enough dosh to afford a tropical island getaway this summer? Do not fear, for you no longer need to travel far for your secluded island experience. Dubbed a "Papua New Guinean dancehall", The Cliff Dive is the tiki bar with a difference, with distinctive flavours from East Timor and PNG complete with authentic, hand-turned wooden artefacts, novelty cocktails and a sunken dance floor. It was conceived by Jeremy Blackmore and Alex Dowd (of Tio's fame), two fellas who can't seem to help but get it oh so right. This time they have built the bar up with their bare hands. And the result is certainly worth their efforts. Pass by kitsch neon graphics and down the darkened stairwell to reach what is a tropical oasis: a hub of beats, beards and novelty-sized tiki mugs. Previous home of The Gaff, Cliff Dive is Oxford Street's new kid on the block, within spitting distance of most of Sydney's bar scene, as well as just about every other happening Sydney scene. And the vibe is electric. DJs are scheduled most nights of the week and the dance floor begs for inappropriate, early morning grinding. Although at first glance the drinks menu may appear somewhat basic (and perhaps a little exxy for those on a tighter budget), there really is something for everyone on offer at the two functioning Dive bars. Cocktails, starting from $10, are unique tiki concoctions with a very serious rum focus. For $10 there's a Mojito, but more interesting is the Pandang – a sweet hit of rum, fresh apple juice and pandan syrup, which lingers long after each sip. Probably the most notable Cliff Dive bev is the Supa Colada ($17 for rum, coconut cream, coconut sugar syrup and pineapple juice). It's a few dollars extra, which becomes ever more acceptable as the night kicks on. For the tinnie lover comes an impressive range of beers — affordable options like Tiger ($8) and SP Lager ($6) from PNG to fit the theme, as well as pricier imports, such as Yo Ho Black Porter from Japan ($12). There's food too (as if things could get any better). Bite-size barbeque pork buns (two for $8) come from the pan-Asian kitchen behind the main bar and run all night long (cue Lionel Richie sporting a lei). With the only real drawback being its already epic popularity (seriously, come on a Friday or Saturday night and expect a line curling right around Oxford Square) the only danger in this dive is how much fun you're going to have. And perhaps the size of your hangover the next day. Appears in: Sydney's Best Underground Bars for 2023
The Australian Open is a marathon, not a sprint. Anyone who's wandered through Melbourne Park on a January afternoon, sun blazing, sunscreen melting, knows that by the time the night sessions roll around, you can easily be running on fumes. Whether it's your first time at the tournament or you're trying to perfect your route, here's how to do the Australian Open like a pro. Preparation Is Key The Australian Open blends the tennis tournament with fashion activations, street-style snaps, and many chill-out zones to relax with friends. While you may be tempted to don your most stylish outfit, preparation and comfort are key to feeling fresh enough to witness tennis history. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Australian Open (@australianopen) Wear comfortable shoes that can help you get from one end of the grounds to the other. Dress in breathable linens or cottons, and don't forget to pack your sunscreen and hat (sunscreen is also available to the public around the venue). Packing a light overshirt in case you suddenly find your courtside seat directly in the sun's glow is also an expert tip. If you have tickets for afternoon and evening games, you'll want to feel as comfortable as possible, so preparing your outfit and bag beforehand will ensure you're not caught out (and sun-stroked) by the final late-night game. The Midday Reset If you do have an AO day out planned, look for pop-ups that can help you to reset. There are loads around the grounds that specialise in makeup touchups, fashion outlets (if you need a change of shirt), and grooming booths to keep you feeling fresh. On Saturday, January 24, the OneBlade Barbershop will set up at the Southbank Spillway for walk-ins, with two barbers on hand to provide a free trim, edge, or close facial hair shave using the Philips OneBlade. Looking sharp is Philips' shout this Australian Open. Choose hairstyle inspiration from the icons board featuring sporting stars, including Nick Kyrgios and the Honeybadger. You don't need to make a booking in between matches. Just rock up, scan the QR code and secure your spot from 9am–4pm. You can also spin the prize wheel to score giveaways like the Philips Nose Trimmer NT1000, the Philips OneBlade Original Blade, exclusive merch, mini fans and more. A DJ will be playing next to the Philips barbershop throughout the event as well to keep the AO energy high. The pop-up is designed to keep you feeling fresh and on-trend, all while soaking up the stylish atmosphere of the Australian Open. Pace Your Rally Between the AO's heat and party-like energy, it's easy to forget to pace yourself. Whilst sipping your Aperol Spritzes and sampling the many food stalls, don't forget to drink water. It'll be hard to stay awake for the final showdown at 11pm if you're dehydrated. Looking for some food and beverage recommendations to keep the energy up? Several crowd favourites are back in 2026, including the famous Peach Melbourne peach and vanilla soft serve. The Grey Goose Lemon Ace cocktail also returns, available freshly mixed or ready-to-drink from the revamped Courtside Bar. You can sip on Canadian Clubs in their lounge area or check out the much-loved AO Frappe. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hector's Deli (@hectors_deli) Beyond the Courtside Bar, Melbourne Park transforms into a food festival with the likes of Japanese-inspired favourite Suupaa serving konbini classics like onigiri, katsu sandos, noodle bowls and its cult Suupaachiki fried chicken. Over in Garden Square, Melbourne institutions take centre stage, with Hector's Deli making its AO debut and Entrecôte serving French-inspired classics. By staying hydrated, taking a moment to reset at the activations, and snacking your way around the tournament, you can keep cool and soak up Melbourne at its best. Good luck. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Concrete Playground Melbourne (@concreteplaygroundmelbourne) Image credit: Supplied
Named after Evelyn Mulwray — the enigmatic femme fatale at the centre of Roman Polanski's 1974 classic Chinatown — this 50-seat Paddington bar draws on its cinematic namesake to set the tone: moody, intimate and refined. Set within the former Grand Pacific Blue Room — an it-nightclub of Y2K-era Sydney — The Mulwray joins sibling venues The Palomar and Jacob the Angel in London hospo crew Studio Paskin's stable at 25hours Hotel Sydney The Olympia. A neon silhouette of Mulwray herself at the entrance gives way to a room anchored in dark leather, rich velvet and heritage brick, with soft honeyed lighting that makes everything — and everyone — look a little more glamorous. Subtle brass floor inlays, menus handwritten on mirrors and warm, atmospheric lighting give the space its cinematic edge while still feeling intimate and lived-in. Behind the bar, Head of Beverage Roean Patawaran — whose CV includes Oncore by Clare Smyth, Firedoor and Woodcut — steers a cocktail program built on precision and restraint. Classics are the stars here, from martinis to french 75s, with just enough modern flair (see: the jalapeño-spiked Picante Margarita) to keep things interesting. Wine shares top billing with the cocktails. The ever-evolving 100-bin list by Head Sommelier Eleonore Wulf (Aalia, Nour, Joji) celebrates biodynamic, organic and sustainable producers, spotlighting lesser-known grapes and methods without drifting into esoterica. Food comes courtesy of Mitch Orr, who brings his big-swinging, flavour-forward approach to a sharp list of snacks. Expect fried zucchini flowers with green chilli yoghurt, Westholme wagyu tartare on toast and a scene-stealing fish finger sandwich. Service is unobtrusive and deeply knowledgeable — more dinner party at your stylish friend's house than stuffy hotel bar. It's an atmosphere that honours its namesake: enigmatic, elegant and designed to draw you in slowly. [caption id="attachment_1046056" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Justin Nicholas[/caption]
At nearly 70-years-old, Kings Cross institution Piccolo Bar has been revived as a licensed aperitivo spot under the guidance of Bartender Magazine founder, Dave Spanton. Located just off the Kings Cross main strip on Roslyn Street, Piccolo Bar served as a late-night cafe and nightlife spot from 1952. But, following years of difficult conditions for Sydney's hospitality industry, the Kings Cross institution closed its doors. Rising from the ashes of lockdowns and lockouts, the inner-city stalwart is being leased by Spanton from long-time owner Vittorio Bainchi and has been given a makeover that stays true to the heritage of the bar while freshening it up. The writer and entrepreneur has also secured the venue's first-ever liquor license. Sitting at a small but mighty 20 square metres, the bar holds 12 seats indoors and eight outdoors. Come 10pm, the outdoor seating will be packed away making Piccolo Bar one of Sydney's smallest drinking holes. The food menu is reserved but a lot of fun. You'll find hot dogs made with LP's Quality Meats dogs, goat's curd and piquillo pepper toasties and a range of canned treats like spicy Italian sardines or Spanish mussels, served with crackers and pickles. Alternatively, the drinks menu stretches across eight pages, overwhelming visitors with choice. While a wide array of wine and spirits are on offer, the cocktails, aperitifs and aromatised wines are the star of the show here. Take your pick from the selection of vermouths or order a classic Americano made with Campari, house-blended vermouth and soda. Head to the bar between 4–6pm for $12 cocktails. For Spanton, it was a no-brainer when he saw the beloved venue was up for lease. "My accountant thinks it's a crazy idea," he jokes. "But there's more to life than money, and I just couldn't stand to see this place disappear." Appears in: The Best Bars in Sydney
