If you're anything like us, you buy a lot of coffee, and odds are that means you burn through a lot of takeaway cups. But what you might not realise is that those cups contain a plastic liner that means they cannot be recycled. It's for this reason that the City of Sydney is throwing its weight behind a BYO coffee cup campaign – and a ton of local cafes are already on board. The aim of Responsible Cafes is to get cafes and customers to ditch takeaway coffee for good. "There are now over 2,500 cafes across Australia offering a discount to people with a BYO coffee cup," said founder Justin Bonsey. "It's great for our pocketbooks, great for cafes to bring in new customers and great for the planet." Cafes keen to get on board can sign up via the Responsible Cafes website. In return, they'll be added to a searchable map that, according to Bonesey, is visited by over 1 million people every year. Among the cafes that have already signed up include About Life Bondi Junction and Surry Hills, Darlinghurst's Infinity Bakery and The Royal, Surry Hill's BangBang Espresso and Soul Origin locations across the CBD and suburbs. The campaign will receive an injection of government funding via the City of Sydney's latest round of knowledge exchange sponsorships. "In our area alone, 100 million takeaway coffee cups end up in landfill every year – and each one takes around 50 years to decompose," said Lord Mayor Clover Moore. "Responsible Cafes connects and promotes cafes that encourage customers to refuse takeaway cups for good, and they're aiming to recruit another 100 new city cafes." It's not the first step that the City of Sydney has taken to address the issue. Last year they gave a $17,500 grant to Closed Loop, who installed standalone bins for coffee cups in office buildings in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. And it's also not the only bit of good environmental news we've gotten recently. Just last week, supermarket chains Coles, Woolworths and Harris Farms all pledged to stop using single use plastic bags as of 2018. Keep it up, Australia.
Virtual reality is no longer just something found in science fiction films, as anyone who has experienced a VR concert or tour, attended a festival of VR flicks or bought their own VR headset is more than aware. That's just the beginning. The next step in this brave new world — well, maybe that's where everything the likes of The Matrix, TRON, eXistenZ and Strange Days told us starts to come into play. In Vienna, a world-first bar lets patrons combine the real and virtual worlds in a new fashion: by heading out for a few beverages, donning the requisite gear and hanging out in an intangible space rather than just soaking in the bricks and mortar surroundings. Who needs to chat to the people around you when you can plug in, play and interact in the VR space, right? Equipped with an array of VR gear, Vrei Lounge encourages both, with Playstation VR, HTC Vive, Samsung GearVR and more all on the menu alongside the usual selection of booze, coffee, pizzas and muffins. While you're sipping and snacking, you can play mini-golf, train to be a space pirate, repair robots, plunge into the underwater deep or race cars — virtually, of course. It might be the first of its kind, but with arcade and pinball bars popping up with frequency these days, expect more alcohol-fuelled VR haunts to follow around the world. It does indulge humanity's now-engrained love for always being glued to a screen, after all. Whether putting on a headset and having a tipple is better than lounging around and chatting to your mates — that's up to you. Via AWOL. Image: Vrei.
Oh we love cities. Make no mistake. But venture beyond the borders and go further out and you'll discover a haul of destinations rich with unique events and adventures worth road tripping for. Whether your interests are culinary, cultural or the creative arts, we've teamed up with Destination NSW to curate a guide to the biggest regional events and festivals to keep you entertained during the cooler months. From floral displays to food-packed fiestas, fruit picking and free live music performances, it's time to fuel up the car, fire up your Spotify playlist and settle in to discover the best that New South Wales has to offer. Explore the best of NSW's Regional Events and Festivals at the Destination NSW website.
Hopping on a boat is no longer the only thing to do at White Bay Cruise Terminal, all thanks to Sydney's newest electronic music venue. At Terminal 4, you'll be able to dance the night away to local and international acts while peering out over the water. And if you do want to combine a visit with a cruise, heading by either pre- or post-voyage, you'll be kicking off or ending your trip in quite the style. Forget the dark and sweaty rooms that often come to mind when anyone mentions dance parties and raves. Forget the term 'underground', too. While this site sports a strong industrial aesthetic, it's all about soaring ceilings and views out over Glebe Island and Port Jackson. While you're making shapes, you'll also score a vantage across Darling Harbour's waterways, over to the Harbour Bridge. While exactly when the venue will launch and what it'll open with hasn't yet been revealed, Terminal 4 will start welcoming in dance music fans sometime this summer — but it'll host events year-round. When the beats start dropping, the focus will be on top-notch acts, and on providing Sydney with an inclusive, progressive and multi-sensory space that's all about electronic music first and foremost. Terminal 4 is the latest venture from Untitled Group, who are also behind the Beyond the Valley, Pitch Music & Arts, Grapevine Gathering and Wildlands music festivals, plus Melbourne electronic music hub XE54. Here, Untitled has teamed up with Niche Productions, who've previously toured Jon Hopkins, Bonobo and Odesza to our shores. Find Terminal 4 at the White Bay Cruise Terminal, 2041 James Craig Road, Rozelle. To keep an eye out for events at the venue, head to its Facebook and Instagram pages. Images: Jordan Mumms.
Locals will soon score their first taste of Sydney Tower's multimillion-dollar food and drink makeover, with the first of three impressive new venues set to open its doors in a matter of weeks. First announced back in February, the Trippas White Group's $12-million redevelopment will see the creation of a new three-level bar and restaurant precinct for the famous CBD building. And we now know what's in store, with the company today revealing more about its plans for the three new offerings. Launching first, on Friday, September 25, is Infinity at Sydney Tower: an upscale restaurant replacing the former 360 Bar and Dining on Level 1. Under new Head Chef Mike Dierlinger (The Bridge Room), it's set to plate up a modern Australian menu fusing local produce with international flavours and technique. Dierlinger will draw on his experience working at Michelin-starred restaurants across the globe, to deliver a menu of elegant fare "crafted with an international twist". And you can expect a pretty flash setting to match, as the venue serves up those stunning revolving views across the city and its surrounds. [caption id="attachment_782344" align="alignnone" width="1920"] An artist's impression of Infinity[/caption] Dierlinger is also helping to guide the culinary offering of fellow Sydney Tower newcomer, Bar 83, which is also opening on September 25. Housed up on Level 3, a soaring 83 floors above street level, this one is set to be the city's highest drinking destination. It'll take the form of a luxury cocktail lounge and bar, also rocking some pretty spectacular views — till 2am on Friday and Saturday. The lounge will have a retro vibe with white and red circular seats, gold banquettes, metallic lights and art deco mirrors. Plus, it'll have some big-name talent on the floor (and behind the bar) with award-winning bartender Jenna Hemsworth (Restaurant Hubert, The Baxter Inn) stepping in as venue manager. [caption id="attachment_782937" align="alignnone" width="1920"] An artist's impression of Bar 83[/caption] Rounding out the trio will be Level 2's casual dining offering, known as SkyFeast at Sydney Tower. This one's gearing up to be a modern update on the touristy buffet of old, featuring unlimited dining options celebrating cuisines from around the world. Infinity at Sydney Tower and Bar 83 are set to open on Friday, September 25. SkyFeast will launch later this year. All three can be found at Sydney Tower, between Pitt and Castlereagh streets, Sydney CBD. Top image: Sander Dalhuisen Updated September 10, 2020.
You may not think a good gym session should be followed up with a delicious frozen dessert. Maybe an afternoon of lifting weights followed by indulging in a double-choc or salted caramel and peanut frozen treat doesn't seem like the smartest idea if you're working for those gains. Well, if you see the YoPRO Frozen Dessert Van outside your gym this month, you don't have to run the other way. It will be roaming around Sydney to give away free frozen dessert sticks or scoops of your choice for ten days only. We can't give too much away but you might want to keep a look out at Manly Wharf on Sunday, March 6 and North Bondi Surf Lifesaving Club on Saturday, March 12. It'll also be parked outside gyms around town during the week — follow YoPRO on Instagram to get the scoop on where you need to be to score a free and delicious protein-packed frozen dessert. The namesake healthy snack expert's new line of high-protein frozen desserts are perfect for when you're after some guilt-free indulgence. There's a range of delicious flavours on offer, with each tub packed with ten grams of protein, no added sugar and less than 165 calories per serve. For more information, head to YoPRO's Instagram.
Arriving just in time for the 2026 edition of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, the iconic event's official app now offers a suite of innovative safety and connection features. Bringing an improved sense of community wellbeing, access to help and social moments, the update goes live on day one of Mardi Gras — Friday, February 13. There are three main upgrades to note, starting with Safety Circles. Here, users can save up to five trusted contacts and send an instant SMS update with a single tap. Using a selection of pre-configured messages like "Heading there now," or "I'm here," this feature offers a simple way to keep friends, parents and guardians in the know about your whereabouts. Also in the realm of safety, the Mardi Gras app now includes a Strobe feature that lets users quickly enhance visibility or capture attention in low-light or busy areas. For instance, you can turn your phone into a flashing beacon, complete with customisable colours, torch light and scrolling text. This way, users can locate friends, signal for help or stay visible in a crowd. Meanwhile, for those keen to get extra social during this year's festivities, the new app update also includes the Mardi Moments Fan Wall. Here, users are invited to share photos and moments from all the rainbow-soaked events they attend. At the same time, people can like and comment, helping to paint an interactive, visual story of the festival experience. "Safety and inclusion sit at the core of Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras," says Mardi Gras Festival CEO Jesse Matheson. "The Festival app builds on this commitment, now enhanced with new features to deliver a safe and positive Festival experience, including Safety Circles, Mardi Moments Fan Wall and Strobe designed for large-scale events." Ready to get involved? This year's festival is as jam-packed as you'd expect, with a host of new and returning events, like the femme-charged Ultra Violet at City Recital Hall and Laugh Out Proud at the Enmore Theatre. There's also the chance to catch the latest LGBTQI+ flicks or close out the whole event with a free party at the Kinselas Hotel, headlined by Keli Holiday. The Mardi Gras App is now available from the App Store or Google Play. Head to the website for more information.
For everyone who'll always love Dolly Parton, the icon herself has unveiled excellent news: she's turning her life story and unrivalled career into a musical, which will debut on Broadway in 2026. Parton is writing the new stage show's music and lyrics. She's also co-penning the book for the musical. Will she pop up during a performance? You'll have to head along to Hello, I'm Dolly to find out. If the production's name sounds familiar, then you truly are a Parton fan: it shares its moniker with her very first studio album, which was released in 1967. In the almost six decades since — a year short of it when Hello, I'm Dolly premieres, in fact — Parton has done everything from dominate country music and star on the big screen to read bedtime stories and donate money to COVID-19 research. Her music is also no stranger to Broadway thanks to 9 to 5: The Musical, as based on the 1980 film of the same name, which made its leap to theatre's most-famous district in 2009. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dolly Parton (@dollyparton) "Hello, I'm Dolly, and I lived my whole life to see this show on stage," said Parton in a statement about the musical. Dolly diehards, you now have this in common with the legend. "I've written many original songs for the show and included all your favourites in it as well. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll clap, you'll stomp, it truly is a Grand Ol' Opera. Pun and fun intended. Don't miss it!" Parton continued. As well as composing the score and new songs for the show, and co-writing the book with Maria S Schlatter, Dolly is producing Hello, I'm Dolly with Adam Speers for ATG Productions and Danny Nozell for CTK Enterprises. There's no word on an exact opening date as yet, or any casting details or touring plans after its Broadway run, but Parton just keeps pouring cups of ambition. And if you're now begging for the musical to please head Down Under, we understand. There's obviously no clips or imagery from Hello, I'm Dolly available yet, but check out the trailer for 9 to 5 — the film — below: Hello, I'm Dolly will premiere on Broadway in 2026. We'll update you with any details of a season Down Under if and when they're announced. Head to the musical's website for further details in the interim.
Renovations to Australia's oldest pool are finally complete, with the Dawn Fraser Baths set to reopen to the public as soon as the NSW Government's public health orders allow. Constructed in the 1880s and renamed after local Olympian Dawn Fraser in the 60s, the baths were closed to the public for upgrades in 2019. The $8 million heritage restoration sees the much-loved swimming hole receive a host of cosmetic improvements, as well as addressing the structural issues that were flagged by engineers and the inner west council back in 2018. "I promised to save Dawn Fraser Baths and, while its been a long hard fight, together we have now secured the future of Australia's oldest and most beautiful harbourside pool for generations to come," Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne said. "I spent half my childhood there and it's where I learnt to swim, so I know just how special this place is and how vital Dawny's is to the social fabric of our community." The restored pools were originally flagged to be completed by summer of last year, however a series of issues arose throughout the restoration process. The southern pavilion and boardwalk, for example, were found to have no structural foundations, forcing builders to construct new foundations eight to ten metres underwater. The southern pavilion, kiosk and amenities of the baths were all in need of restoration as well due to flooding worsened by rising sea levels. While the baths remain closed due to Great Sydney's lockdown, the inner west council has plans to celebrate the reopening with an extended winter swimming season and two weeks of free admission once public health orders roll back to allow residents to visit. As part of the winter season, daily health and wellbeing classes will be run at the baths including yoga, pilates and tai chi. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3jAuN1xpXnY You can read more about the restoration of the Dawn Fraser Baths here.
With the latest round of Darling Square openings came the second outpost of Hello Auntie — Marrickville's much-loved modern Vietnamese eatery by Chef Cuong Nguyen. At the brand new Haymarket digs, Nguyen is serving up Vietnamese street food favourites, some less-traditional dishes, a long list of Asian-inspired cocktails and a secret menu that can only be read with a UV light. Expect a more succinct menu than in Marrickville, with a range of signature and new dishes on the docket, too. Some menu items making the trip over include the fried rice with XO sauce, cured egg yolk and flying fish roe and the fan-favourite crispy banh xeo — or Vietnamese-style pancake — stuffed with prawn and pork. Some of the new dishes are not strictly Vietnamese, but instead feature ingredients and techniques from across Europe, such as the sesame-topped beef tartare with capers and cornichons and the egg noodles with stracciatella and truffle. For drinks, the cocktail list focuses on Asian ingredients and flavours and includes the likes of the Umeshu Sour (vodka and Cointreau with toasted marshmallows) and the Koh Samui (white rum, pandan, thai basil and lime). The bar is also offering a sake pairing, hand-picked by Nguyen to match the flavours of the dishes you've ordered. Don't forget to ask for the 'secret' food and cocktail menu at dinner, either, which is only available by request — and can only be read using a UV light. The fit-out also sets Darling Square apart from the Marrickville original, though the two certainly have some similarities. In the city, expect polished finishes with an earthy colour scheme, dim lighting and dark timber tables.
2023 already marks Australia's last chance to be in the room where it happens. Until winter, it's now every Aussie muggle's final opportunity to see Harry Potter and the Cursed Child pick up its wands as well. Currently running as a condensed single-night play rather than the original two-part version, this onstage follow-up to the page and screen Harry Potter franchise has announced that it'll wrap up its Melbourne season on Sunday, July 9 — and then leave our shores. Unlike other big shows such as Hamilton, Moulin Rouge! The Musical and The Book of Mormon in recent years, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child isn't jumping elsewhere around the nation after its stint in the Victorian capital. So, when the curtain falls on its lengthy stay at Melbourne's Princess Theatre after four years, that'll be the end of its magic Down Under. That gives theatregoers five months to book in a date with the hit wizarding production, which picks up 19 years after Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows and its abominably cheery epilogue on Platform 9 3/4. Here, Harry is now an overworked Ministry of Magic employee, with the play focusing on both him and his youngest son Albus Severus Potter as they grapple with the past and future. Since debuting in London in July 2016, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child has won a swathe of awards (including nine Olivier Awards and six Tonys) and proven a repeated sellout — in the West End, on Broadway and in San Francisco, too. In its Melbourne run, it has become the most successful play in Australian history, including attracting 326,500 people in its first year. Four years on from first opening in Australia in February 2019, and after navigating the pandemic during that time, the local season has sold more than a million tickets and hosted over 1300 performances. "We are extremely proud of our Melbourne production and to be the longest-running play in the history of Australia is an extraordinary achievement," said producer Sonia Friedman CBE, announcing Harry Potter and the Cursed Child's Aussie end date. "Opening our production here has been one of the highlights in the life of our groundbreaking, astonishing show and we look forward to an amazing final five months in this glorious city." Muggles, if you want to see The Cursed Child, you'll need to accio yourself along before July — with more tickets released on Monday, February 6. Harry Potter and the Cursed Child plays Melbourne's Princess Theatre until Sunday, July 9. For more information and to buy tickets, head to the play's website. Images: Michelle Grace Hunder.
After the year that's been, we've all got our sights set on making this summer one to remember. So, no doubt, you'll want to shake things up a little — and, if you're hosting the crew around for some backyard drinks, you'll want to make sure those sips are darn memorable, too. Because balmy days call for cocktails, we've teamed up with tequila distiller 1800 Tequila to help you unleash your inner bartender. Recently, the brand launched a limited-edition merch range in collaboration with Aussie accessories queen Poppy Lissiman and Sydney-based artist Manu Crooks. So, if you were looking for some bold new accessories for summer, it's got you sorted in that department — but you better get in quickly, before they sell out. Now, the two aforementioned creative legends, plus 1800's Hayley Dixon (Proximo Spirits Tequila Specialist), have come up with three tequila cocktail recipes that are guaranteed to spice up your next at-home session. POPPY LISSIMAN'S TASTE OF TULUM Serves one Sleek, chic and a little bit fun, this little libation created by Poppy Lissiman is the perfect drink for summer nights spent on the dance floor. The concoction uses 1800 coconut-infused tequila, which lends a taste of the tropics, while prosecco keeps things sophisticated. So, break out the champagne flutes and get shaking. Ingredients 30ml 1800 Coconut 15ml peach syrup 10ml Fino sherry 20ml fresh lemon juice 5ml simple syrup 90ml prosecco Method Minus the prosecco, shake all ingredients together, then double strain into a champagne flute. Top the glass with prosecco and garnish with lemon zest. MANU CROOK'S CHERRY CHILL Serves one The classic cherry-cola combo gets served a grown-up twist in this moody drink designed by hip hop artist Manu Crooks. Expect smoke and spice from the 1800's barrel-aged Reposado, which is perfectly balanced with a fun, fruity hit from the rest of the ingredients. It's safe to say that this is one smooth sip that'll see you from day to night. Ingredients 30ml 1800 Reposado 15ml cherry liqueur 2ml vanilla extract 15ml simple syrup 25ml fresh lemon juice Dash Angostura orange bitters 60ml cola Method Minus the cola, shake all ingredients together, then double strain the mix into a double rocks glass over ice. Top with the cola and garnish with a lemon twist. 1800 TEQUILA'S SUMMER STAPLE Serves one When sunny skies and post-swim sessions call for a tipple that's fresh and fruity, keep your cool with this fizzy, pink-hued number. Made with the extra-smooth, double-distilled 1800 Silver, it's a crafty riff on the classic G&T that's sure to become your new summer go-to. Ingredients 40ml 1800 Silver 15ml watermelon syrup 15ml honey syrup (three parts honey, one part warm water) 20ml fresh lemon juice 15ml fresh grapefruit juice 60ml dry tonic Method Minus the tonic, shake all ingredients together, then double strain the mix into a highball glass over ice. Top up with tonic and garnish with a watermelon wedge. Spice up your summer with these three easy-to-make 1800 Tequila cocktails, then get yourself some fresh new accessories from the 1800 Essential Artists merch range. 1800 Tequila promotes responsible drinking practices, for 18 years and over only.
Every suburb needs a bistro. Not just the Australian bistro found inside pubs, but a neighbourhood restaurant, serving simple French-inspired food. The kind of place where people can rest their arms on white tablecloths, drink French wine and sink their spoons into souffles. The 'go-to' restaurant to suit any occasion and welcome you with open arms. And most importantly, it should be as comfortable as your own home. Macleay St Bistro in Potts Point is the essence of the neighbourhood restaurant. It's been open for nearly 30 years and is still going strong thanks to new owners (and Potts Point locals) Mark Campbell and Phillip Fikkers. Walking inside from the bustling Macleay Street, it feels as though you're entering someone's home. The lighting has a warming glow with the mood casual. Diners sit fairly close to each other and there's a calming hum coming from the kitchen while waiters are darting around tending to guests. The menu is short and straight to the point. The rock oysters with eschallot and champagne vinaigrette ($4 each) and the half-shell scallops with saffron chive and caper butter ($5 each) are a promising start. The accompaniments don't steal the thunder from the headline acts of oysters and scallops, which are incredibly fresh. The special of fried lamb's brains with celeriac pepperade ($18) is excellent. The crispy batter acts as the perfect coat for the soft brains, which had a similar consistency to the inside of a croquette. Combined with the celeriac sauce, it is magic. The organic grass-fed eye fillet with wilted silverbeet and sauce soubise ($38) was enjoyable but promised so much more. The steak lacked a touch of seasoning but this was saved by the beautifully rich sauce. To finish, the hazelnut mille feuille with coffee anglais ($15) reminded me of a dessert sandwich. Delicate cream was sandwiched by crunchy sheets of rich pastry and rested on a sauce with a hint of coffee. Instead of tasting an intense espresso, the mille feuille harmonised flavours of hazelnut and coffee with the rich cream and pastry. Although none of the dishes we tasted had the three-hat knockout punch, Macleay St Bistro consistently exceeds expectations in every department. The food, the service and the ambience make for an enjoyable evening.
If you're a soccer fan, you've probably nabbed tickets to the upcoming Western Sydney Wanderers versus Sydney FC Derby Match by now — it's taking over Parramatta's Bankwest Stadium on Saturday, May 1. The two rival teams are going head-to-head in what promises to be the biggest event in the Wanderers' season. But the party doesn't have to stop once the game wraps up. Parramatta has heaps of late-night bars that are perfect for celebratory kick-ons. Here are six spots that'll keep the good times rolling — and the good news is they're all less than a 20-minute walk from the stadium.
The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney has officially been lit up for Vivid 2019 — and from Friday, May 24, you can explore the garden's 15 glowing light installations after dark. Of course, you're going to want a beverage which you do so, which is where this pop-up nautical-themed bar comes in. With a fit-out to delight your inner wharfie, the bar will be treating chilly Vivid travellers to cosy serves of mulled wine, vino by the glass and the bottle, and a tidy line of Archie Rose gin cocktails. Make sure you try the glowing blue HMAS Royal Archie, with its blend of dry gin, macadamia and pineapple. There'll be plenty of warm food to round out your visit, including a hearty fish chowder served in a crusty bread bowl, mac 'n' cheese spiked with fresh lobster, and classic fish and chips. Throw in a cinnamon sugar-dusted pineapple fritter with ice cream and you'll be well fuelled and ready to set sail on the rest of your night's Vivid adventures. The bar will pop up in the Royal Botanic Garden from this Friday and will be open from 6–11pm each night of Vivid. You'll find it among the glowing trails of the Light Walk which, this year, includes everything from giant bees and a field of fireflies to exotic birds. Food images: Cole Bennetts.
For a city with such a warm climate, Sydney doesn't exactly have an over-supply of rooftop bars. But budding entrepreneur Lyndon Gannon wants to change that. And he has his sights set on the rooftop of the Dymocks Building, which, as you probably know, is smack-bang in the centre of the city on George Street. According to Gannon, the space (pictured) would have capacity for 200 people. He believes that a bar area, small kitchen, greenery as per The Grounds of Alexandria and pergolas — to keep out the rain, when those famous Sydney downpours do hit — could all be part of the picture. Which all sounds great, but, given that the rooftop's not been developed for public use before, it would need to jump through quite a few compliance hoops before gaining council approval. Gannon also cites "heritage and acquiring a DA for use, and construction difficulties" as issues standing in his way. While no concrete plans are in motion yet, Gannon — who was the Liberal candidate for Balmain in 2015 and, having left politics, recently founded his own company, Pie in the Sky Partnerships — says he is in conversation with the building's manager and owners. Which is promising. At the same time, he's investigating a bunch of other unusual, underutilised spaces for their hospitality potential. "Sydney has a lot of basement bars, but not many rooftop bars," Gannon says. "There's a gap in the market...There are so many dormant spaces that could be turned into exciting new places." While the Dymocks dream could turn out to be merely a pie in the sky, activating unused spaces for the public is something we'll always chuck our support behind. Watch this space.
After almost a decade in Paddington, Tequila Mockingbird has come to an end. But that doesn't mean the story is over. Housed in a heritage-listed, 19th-century terrace, the venue won countless fans throughout the years with its Latin American share plates and innovative cocktails. Plus, it offered one of the city's most comprehensive tequila and mezcal lists. Yet Michael Fegent, owner and Director of Atticus Hospitality, isn't one to rest on his laurels, delivering a dream concept that's been years in the making — tqm. Opening on Thursday, May 8, the old restaurant has undergone a full-scale refurbishment. Leading the culinary revolution is newly appointed Atticus Hospitality Executive Chef Jose Garcia — a Michelin-rated chef who last served as Executive Chef of Fogón Asado in Buenos Aires, which was ranked the 36th best steak restaurant in the world, according to the respected World's 101 Best Steak Restaurants list. With Fogón Asado also renowned for its theatrical flourishes, tqm guests can expect a similar playfulness on the menu. Garcia has placed several of his signature dishes on tqm's menu, including XO prawns rice, fried green plantain with smoked fish, and blood sausage croquette. Meanwhile, smaller dishes, like grilled haloumi and tomato salad, and sweet potato puree with nut dukkah, are long-standing recipes of the renowned chef. With each dish inspired by an aspect of Garcia's life — from road trips across Venezuela with his dad to his mum's love of seafood — an upbeat personality will ripple through tqm's food. "My inspiration comes from multiple past experiences, from my favourite chefs, and from my Latin and family roots. Every time I have the chance to highlight something my mum or grandmother taught me, I try to do it," says Garcia. "Since I was a kid, I've loved cooking, eating, and being in the kitchen. From the age of 13, I knew I wanted to be a chef. And when I started studying, one of my goals was to be part of the group of chefs who have worked to showcase and elevate Venezuelan cuisine and flavours around the world." With Tequila Mockingbird renowned for its cocktails, a host of new creations will carry on this legacy at tqm. For instance, the Grande Chartreuse Colada features green Chartreuse, Bacardi, pineapple and coconut, while the Caribbean Queen combines Plantation pineapple rum, Rhubi and Averna with fresh strawberry and pineapple. The new venue will also debut its first-ever collection of house wines, with red, white and rosé varieties made in collaboration with two distinct winemakers in the Hunter Valley and McLaren Vale. As for the refurbed decor, things are looking a little brighter. The facade now dazzles in bright yellow, speaking to the restaurant's Venezuelan connection. This golden hue is also used extensively across the bar, dining room and lush courtyard. For Fegent, it's all about bringing home the culinary passion he encountered in South America a decade ago. "Over the course of many trips, where I visited 30-plus local restaurants, Jose's restaurant Fogón Asado was the absolute standout… I can't wait to showcase his extraordinary, world-class cooking from our little part of Sydney and give our customers something truly unique and special." tqm will open Tuesday–Thursday from 4.30pm–late and Friday–Saturday from 12pm–late at 6 Heeley St, Paddington. Head to the website for more information.
Everyone has heard about — or tried to eat their way through — KitKat's famed range of weird and wonderful Japanese flavours. A cough drop version once existed, and it really wasn't great. The sake version, a perennial favourite, is absolutely delicious. But if you're vegan, none of these varieties will have tempted your tastebuds. KitKats in general won't have either, actually. That changed back in 2021 for Aussies who follow a plant-based, dairy-free and cruelty free diet, and were also keen to sink their teeth into a KitKat. The brand launched a vegan-certified KitKat, as made with a rice-based milk alternative. The result: a KitKat covered in a smooth plant-based milk chocolate — not dark chocolate — which is then layered over the usual crisp wafers. The original run of plant-based KitKats was a limited-time deal; however, they're now back in Australian supermarkets again. This time, they've hit Coles stores — and only for a short period. That means that everyone can now have a break — and a KitKat — with KitKat Plant Based joining other plant-based alternatives among Nestle's products. So, if you'd like to crack open a few fingers while tucking into a glass of plant-based Milo, you'll be able to. The 41.5-gram bars cost $3 and, if you're super keen, they can also be ordered from the KitKat Chocolatory website. When your next sugar craving hits, add them to your list alongside vegan Natural Confectionery Co fruit lollies, vegan choc tops, and vegan Magnums, Cornettos and Weis Bars. KitKat Plant Based is available now at Coles stores around Australia — or you can them from the KitKat Chocolatory website.
If you want to awaken all of your senses at once, you need to pay a visit to Sydney's Masala Theory. Expect to be treated to a plethora of neo-Indian snacks and dishes, putting a fun spin on authentic Indian food while embracing the best Indian cuisine has to offer. The concept of the joint was conceived by Owner Yashpal Erda after he was inspired to make his mark on the representation of Indian cuisine in Australia. Ever since, Masala Theory's semi-traditional offerings have aimed to challenge those preconceptions. You'll find this inventive eatery tucked away into a crevice of Crown Street, just past Giuls and Kürtosh. Seating 60, the eclectic venue is adorned with bright interiors, sprays of colour, hand-painted imagery artworks and our personal favourite, a motorbike with neon lights mounted along one of the walls. Start your meal with a bang and dig straight into the renowned curry bombs — thin crispy balls of pastry with the filling of your choice, to which you'll add the curry sauce. These bit-esized morsels are the restaurant's signature dish and a must-try. You can also kick off your night with the theca paneer tikka for a delicious textural journey, the chicken lukhmi for a flavour hit or the Three Sisters chaat for a challenge — and a snap for IG. For something different, try the cheesy masala pavs — masala-buttered sliders with curried chickpea and cheddar cheese. But if snacking on miniature burgers at an Indian restaurant goes against your rules (fair), then opt for the dhungar chicken tikka masala — smoked chicken coated in a creamy masala sauce. The gol hatti chole and tikki — a potato patty accompanied by green curried chickpeas, chiffonade poppadum and pickled mango — is a must-try and completely meat-free. Plus, the dessert selection does not disappoint. Opt for the deconstructed motichoor ladoo for a semi-traditional dessert, or try the gulabi panna cotta for an inventive treat. This experimental menu item boasts Indian rose cream, vanilla pollen and strawberry jelly. Strawberry milk fans, this one is for you in particular. Want to make your meal extra special? Try out Masala Theory's Ride & Dine taxi offering. Here you'll experience a one-hour ride around the city in a decorated Delhi-style taxi before enjoying the restaurant's culinary offerings. It's a real joy for tourists and Sydneysiders alike. Images: Cassandra Hannagan
The past 18 months really emphasised just how important our local cafes are. As many of us worked from home, the neighbourhood coffee shop and its familiar faces became focal points for our communities — after all, the majority of the IRL interactions we had over winter were with the baristas and waitstaff who show up every day to bring a little joy to the monotony. To that end, Concrete Playground teamed up with Milklab to shine a spotlight on a few beloved Sydney cafes that have been keeping our writers and editors fuelled with caffeine and wholesome community vibes. [caption id="attachment_835946" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Arvin Prem Kumar[/caption] ADA'S AFFAIR, DARLINGHURST WHAT IT IS: This charming cafe has all the hallmarks of a neighbourhood favourite — solid food options, excellent coffee, and friendly, warm service. Tucked away on an unassuming Darlinghurst corner behind St Vincent's Hospital, Ada's Affair might just be the neighbourhood's best-kept secret. WHY WE LOVE IT: Expertly brewed coffee by Sample always makes a cup here a cut above. It's an ideal foil for the tight menu of thoughtfully elevated brunch classics and fresh pastries. WHAT TO ORDER: Start your day right with a cup of the batch brew and a BAE, Ada's perfectly constructed brekkie burger featuring house-made bacon jam, spinach frittata, cheese and smoky tomato relish on a brioche bun. WEST JULIETT, MARRICKVILLE WHAT IT IS: A bucket-list inner west cafe, West Juliett has been delivering the goods for nearly a decade. Set in a large, light-flooded corner space with whitewashed brick walls, polished concrete floors and a decent amount of comfortable outdoor seating, this Llewellyn Street spot is a favourite for both two- and four-legged patrons. WHY WE LOVE IT: There's a big focus on keeping things homemade here, with everything from the pastries to the sodas made in-house. There's also a range of house-made preserves — and an excellent hazelnut dukkah — available to take home to help you level up your DIY breakfast game. WHAT TO ORDER: The picture-perfect Buckwheat Benny — featuring buckwheat pancakes, beetroot hummus, broccolini, spring peas, poached eggs and hollandaise — is as good as it looks. Save room for one of the enormous homemade cookies and pair it with a Milklab Oat cap for an unimpeachable treat. TWO DOORS DOWN, GLADESVILLE WHAT IT IS: This bright and airy cafe on Gladesville's main thoroughfare offers a relaxing getaway from busy Victoria Road. Grab a seat in the cosy courtyard to soak up the rays as you tuck into Middle Eastern-inspired brunch fare. WHY WE LOVE IT: Excellent service and a wide-ranging brunch menu make Two Doors Down one of the suburb's most popular spots. The coffee here, by Campos, is as consistent as you'll find, too, and is complemented by the full suite of Milklab milks. WHAT TO ORDER: Try the sambousek — a classic Lebanese snack of a fried pastry parcel bursting with aromatic minced meat, pine nuts and spices, and served with a fresh green salad and homemade hummus. For dessert, opt for a velvety hot chocolate with coconut milk — Two Doors Down owner Elie Youssef swears that it tastes like a liquid Bounty bar. SHOWBOX COFFEE, MANLY WHAT IT IS: Showbox is a Manly go-to for excellent coffee and baked goods in a warm setup on buzzy Whistler Street with a pared-back interior of exposed brick and pale wood. WHY WE LOVE IT: A constantly evolving food and coffee menu showcasing local producers and roasters means that you can have something different on just about every visit. There's also a solid selection of homemade cakes and pastries, with a rotating selection that became a must-try for north shore dwellers during lockdown. WHAT TO ORDER: While much of the menu changes regularly (recent dishes have included a hot dog with LP's chorizo, shaved garlic brussels sprouts, bourbon onion jam and dijon mustard, and potato rosti with a herbed yoghurt base, roasted radicchio, broccolini and dill), it's hard to go past the epic ham and cheese toastie. It's a two-handed affair with shaved doubled smoked ham, swiss, cheddar and garlic salt sandwiched in perfectly toasted sourdough and topped with lashings of parmesan. Add a Milklab flattie to the mix for a luxurious mid-morning combo. [caption id="attachment_835959" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Arvin Prem Kumar[/caption] PLUNGE NO. 46, SUMMER HILL WHAT IT IS: Set in the heart of Summer Hill village, Plunge has been a go-to for Hillians on both sides of the train tracks for nearly 20 years. The space itself features minimalist decor and plenty of outside seating — including kerbside, for all your weekend people-watching needs. WHY WE LOVE IT: Coffee by Alchemy, a Mediterranean-accented menu and a friendly atmosphere make Plunge one of Summer Hill's most popular spots. If you can't snag a table, grab your order to go and find a spot in one of the many nearby parks just outside the village. WHAT TO ORDER: The Summer Cous Cous Porridge is a true delight. It's a colourful plate, topped with tropical fruit, pistachio and mascarpone. If you're after something more straightforward, there's a great range of wraps and toasties — the three cheese and truffled mushroom option makes for a truly luxurious cafe experience. MADAME & YVES, CLOVELLY WHAT IT IS: Yves Scherrer might just be one of the most credentialed pastry chefs working in Australia. The classically trained pâtissier began training at age 16 in his native France before working in venues around Europe, the US and Canada. He moved to Australia just over a decade ago, where he worked at restaurants including Est and Kisumé before opening his eponymous Clovelly venue. WHY WE LOVE IT: World-class pastries with views of one of Sydney's most picturesque beaches has seen Madame & Yves build a loyal following since opening in 2019. The cosy spot is bathed in white and features clever pastel accents, making it a perfect accompaniment to Clovelly's chilled beachside vibes. WHAT TO ORDER: Madame & Yves' homemade baked goods take temptation and inject it with high voltage. A classic croissant is always a good place to start but if you want to branch out there's a range of tricked up croissants, beautiful eclairs and a tight selection of homemade gelato to tempt you further. Whichever you choose, be sure to pair it with a bowl of coffee, French style. We challenged one of our writers to switch to oat milk for a week. Find out what they discovered here. Ask your barista for Milklab oat or head to the website for more information. Top image: West Juliett
He turned the world's most famous shipwreck into one of biggest movies in history and reinvented 3D filmmaking to make another box office behemoth — and now James Cameron is bringing the ocean's depths to Sydney. Making its world premiere at Sydney's Australian National Maritime Museum from May 29, 2018 until January 30, 2019, James Cameron – Challenging the Deep will dive deep into the Titanic and Avatar director's rather expensive hobby: deep-sea exploration. When you make a movie about a necklace called the Heart of the Ocean, becoming obsessed with the sea is understandable, and Cameron has quite the array of artefacts, specimens, underwater recordings, inventions, cinema-scale projections, and film props and costumes to prove it. They'll all be on display, in a showcase that examines the filmmaker's passion for understanding and wading through our oceans. According to the The Sydney Morning Herald, Cameron himself will be in attendance to open the exhibition — taking a break from making four (yes, four) Avatar sequels. And if you're wondering why he's launching his latest project here, it could have something to do with his custom-built Deepsea Challenger submersible, which was made in Sydney. Back in 2012, Cameron piloted the vessel to the Mariana Trench, a cool 10,994 metres below the sea and also the deepest part of the ocean, becoming the first person to venture there solo. You might've seen a documentary about his efforts, 2014's Deepsea Challenge 3D, which is just one of the many movies to chart his fascination with what lurks beneath. After kicking things off with 1989's The Abyss, he not only sent Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio running around the RMS Titanic, but made his own documentary about exploring its real-life ruins, aka 2003's Ghosts of the Abyss. Expect The Abyss and Titanic to feature heavily in the exhibition. James Cameron – Challenging the Deep will display at Sydney's Australian National Maritime Museum from May 29, 2018 until January 30, 2019. For more information, visit the exhibition website. Image:NOAA/Institute for Exploration/University of Rhode Island via Wikimedia Commons.
When you have the golden beaches of Avoca, the famed pelicans of Woy Woy, lakes, waterfalls and historic landmarks all in one easy drive from Sydney, it's easy to see the appeal of spending the weekend in the Central Coast. Only an hour's drive, or a 90-minute train ride away, the Central Coast is renowned for its natural beauty — and with an ever developing food and drink scene, too, the area has all the escapism you could ask for in a brief getaway without having to forgo the comforts of a city lifestyle. Though you shouldn't pass up the opportunity to dive into the surf at Tallow Beach, picnic at Lobster Beach, or trek through Bouddi National Park, we think there are some unexpected gems you should add to your weekend hit list next time you cruise up the Pacific Highway. Take a look at these seven lesser known things to do on the Central Coast, from cruising for pearls to devouring epic s'mores. While regional holidays within NSW are now allowed, some of the places mentioned below may be operating differently due to COVID-19 restrictions. Please check websites before making any plans.
More than four years in the making, Central Station's $955-million transformation is set to partially open later this year. To mark the first stages of the new station and platforms opening in late-2022, the NSW Government has provided some insight into what we can expect, including the installation of the Southern Hemisphere's largest escalators. There are a total of 42 sets of escalators currently being installed, amounting to 955-metres of new automated walkways for tired workers. Each set is made up of three 45-metre-long escalators forming 135-metre long structures. While three sets of escalators have been built inside the new Metro stations, the majority will be incorporated into the new Central Walk underground concourse. 19-metres wide and 80-metres long, the new Central Walk runs below platforms 16 to 23 of the station, connecting the new metro lines to existing train and light rail platforms. Other elements of the station's transformation include the aforementioned Metro platforms that will be incorporated into the new Sydney Metro City and Southwest Metro lines, and the bright 330-tonne Northern Concourse canopy which you can currently see if you make a trip to the inner-city transport hub. "This city-shaping work is an extraordinary engineering and construction accomplishment," NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet said. "We're delivering this Metro rail station below the surface at Central while existing train services continue above." Unlike the NSW Government's last major public transport project, the Light Rail, Central Station's revamp is on track to open in line with the 2022 date proposed when construction began back in 2018. Following the opening of the first section, the Sydney Metro City and Southwest metro lines are on track to be operational in 2024. From 2024, the new train lines are expected to shorten travel time between Central and Martin Place to 4 minutes, Victoria Cross Station to 9 minutes and Chatswood Station to 15 minutes. Head to the NSW Government website to stay up-to-date with the Sydney Metro and Central Station renovations.
The National Gallery of Victoria has hosted some of Australia's biggest contemporary art exhibitions in recent memory. There was the Andy Warhol and Ai Weiwei blockbuster that paired the works of two of the most significant artists of the 20th and 21st centuries, the huge debut of the NGV Triennial late last year and, next week, the Melbourne gallery will unveil a collection of works from New York City's MoMA. But, in the coming years, all these exhibitions could be moved to a new location, as the Victorian Government has today announced plans for a brand new contemporary art gallery to be built nearby. This is a pretty big deal. The new gallery — dubbed NGV Contemporary (NGVC) — will be part of a major redevelopment of the Southbank arts precinct and, according to the Victorian Government, will be the biggest contemporary art gallery in the country. While it will be part of the NGV, it'll be a standalone gallery, and will be built around the corner on the site of the old Carlton & United Breweries building on Southbank Boulevard. It sounds like the NGV's permanent collection will stay at NGV International, while NGVC will focus purely on contemporary art and design. As well as the gallery itself, the redevelopment will also add 18,000 square metres of public space to the area, theatre upgrades and new facilities in an attempt to turn 1 City Road into Melbourne's arts hub. The State Government will invest $208 million for the first two years of the project — this will allow the NGV to start planning and raise philanthropic funds. Premier Daniel Andrews is calling the redevelopment a "once-in-a-generation" project, and thinks it will be a "game-changer" for the city. Once completed, we think it's safe to assume that the NGV will be able to pull even more big names for its blockbuster exhibitions.
There's a good chance you're already familiar with Adore Beauty, thanks to its powerful online reach. Now, the much-loved beauty retailer has set about launching a compelling brick-and-mortar presence in 2025 with big news on the horizon. Following on from the opening of the brand's first and second physical stores in Melbourne earlier in the year, Adore Beauty is almost ready to swing open the doors to its debut Sydney location. Situated in Glebe's bustling Broadway Sydney shopping centre, fans can expect a carefully curated selection of cult-favourite global and local brands across skincare, haircare, fragrance, wellness, makeup and more. Like the Melbourne locations, the Sydney store will also feature a private treatment room where customers can undertake facials and LED light therapy. Plus, you're welcome to learn more about your skin through complimentary consultations with an in-house dermal therapist. Adore Beauty offers a sprawling portfolio of products, with more than 300 brands to roam during your shop. Plus, long-time customers will be happy to know their in-store purchase comes with a free Tim Tam, a staple of the brand's retail identity. As Adore Beauty continues to expand its brick-and-mortar offering, Sydney isn't the only city getting in on the action. Two stores are set to open in Perth in the coming weeks, with the group planning to open over 25 stores around the country within two years. Adore Beauty is expected to open at Broadway Sydney shopping centre in August. Head to the website for more information. Images: Nicole Squelch
Since November 2024, 200,000 people have enjoyed an IRL Bluey experience in Brisbane, wandering through the immersive installation dedicated to the series in the city that the animated hit sprang from. That number is set to grow. Due to its unsurprising success, Bluey's World is sticking around the Queensland capital, extending its season until February 2026. On- and off-screen, Bluey is inseparable from Brissie. For its setting, the hit animated series takes inspiration from the Sunshine State spot. It also hails from a studio based in the River City. The Heeler home resembles Brisbane's Queenslanders, too. And back in 2022 when a replica of the Bluey house popped up temporarily, there was only one place for it. It always made sense, then, that stepping inside the famous show would happen in the exact right location. Announced in 2023, Bluey's World gets attendees walking around life-sized sets that recreate the beloved family-friendly staple. Yes, the Heeler house and yard are part of the setup — for real life. Yes, you can expect to hear "wackadoo!" more than once while you're there. Movie World might've badged itself as Hollywood on the Gold Coast, but it's no longer the only big tourist hotspot giving visitors to southeast Queensland — and locals as well — a chance to explore their on-screen favourites IRL. Sprawling across 4000 square metres, Bluey's World features the Heelers' living room, playroom, kitchen, backyard (poinciana tree included) and more. Alongside bringing the global TV sensation's sets into reality, it also boasts familiar interactive games such as Keepy Uppy and Magic Xylophone, plus other activities for both kids and adults. Haven't accompanied your own little ones, or your nieces and nephews, to Bluey's World yet? Perhaps you know that appreciating the adorable Aussie show about a family of blue heelers isn't just for children, but you still haven't made the trip. Either way, this addition to Northshore Pavilion in Northshore Brisbane is big — literally thanks to its sizeable floor plan. And yes, as seen in the series, you can arrive via CityCat, including right through until early next year. "The response to Bluey's World has been phenomenal. Seeing families laugh, play and explore the attraction firsthand has been incredibly rewarding. We set out to create a truly special experience, and it's wonderful to watch it become a must-visit Brisbane destination for fans of all ages," said Bluey's World Producer Andrew Kay. "We're so proud of the one-of-a-kind experience we've created, and with the season now extended, we can't wait to welcome even more fans to Bluey's World. Reaching 200,000 visitors in just a few months is a testament to the love and enthusiasm for Bluey. It's been amazing to see families from all over the world step into Bluey's home and immerse themselves in the Heeler family's adventures," added BBC Studios ANZ Head of Commercial Scott Modra. Visitors should plan to spend 70 minutes bounding through the experience — and will also find an indoor playground that nods to Bluey's Brisbane neighbourhood, plus spring rolls and pizza on offer at the cafe. There's a soundscape to match, plus a gift shop. Bluey's World is exclusive to Brisbane, making it a tourist attraction to fans not only locally and nationally but worldwide. Unsurprisingly, that's a big part of the push from both the Queensland Government and Brisbane City Council, who are supporting the BBC Studios- and HVK Productions-produced experience. Find Bluey's World at Northshore Pavilion, 281 MacArthur Avenue, Northshore Brisbane until February 2026 — head to the attraction's website for more information and tickets.
Strap yourself in for a creative feast of fusion flavours at Darlinghurst's modern Asian eatery Restaurant Moon. Like its contemporaries, Chin Chin and Long Chim, Restaurant Moon has moved beyond the cheap and cheerful format to create a more refined offering. In this case, it's European meets Thai with a moon dust sprinkling of molecular gastronomy. For an entree, start of with a serving of house smoked ocean trout pate with duck fat and crispy breads or cooked scallops on cows cows perl with nori, mushroom, garlic chips and Thai kom kha veloute. The crab fried rice with shallots and bean sprouts and pickled chilli sauce is the perfect complement. If you thought that dish was daring, wait until you try the Surf and Turf — a sirloin and confit baby octopus stir-fry. Like a ring around a planet, the dish sees a soft fried egg surrounded by a halo of beef strips and tender tentacles, topped with crispy holy basil leaves. Puncture the yolk and fold all the lusciousness together. A cross between a chilli basil stir-fry and a steak tartare, the flavours and textures actually come together nicely. The diamond clams are another must have, with siracha cream, raw amaebi prawns and salmon roe. Desserts are inventive and visually stunning. For a refreshing finish, go the matcha mousse with vanilla cream and chocolate and passion fruit sorbet, which is light, sweet and cooling to the palette. It may not be what you're used to, but an exploratory mission to Restaurant Moon is sure to be rewarded.
Think about Byron Bay, and a quiet coastal town with stunning beaches is no longer the only thing that comes to mind. Hemsworths pop up, plus other celebrities. So does the New South Wales spot's stint backdropping TV shows. Fancy leaning into the locale's luxe side? Enter its first-ever five-star hotel, with Hotel Marvell opening its doors on Tuesday, August 1. It boasts Marvell in its name, but Marvel Cinematic Universe fans will have spotted the spelling difference. No, even with Chris Hemsworth virtually synonymous with Byron Bay of late, this new place to stay has nothing to do with superheroes. Instead, this new addition to Marvell Street features 24 rooms and suites, the town's first rooftop bar and pool, and onsite restaurant Bonito. Owners Scott Didier and Scott Emery have gone lavish, aiming to give holidaymakers a one-of-a-kind stay. "Hotel Marvell is designed to offer our guests an extraordinary experience like no other. From the exclusive rooftop bar and pool with breathtaking views to the Bonito restaurant showcasing the finest local ingredients, we have crafted a haven for those seeking refined luxury in Byron Bay," said Emery. "Our passion for Byron Bay and our belief in the potential of this incredible destination inspired us to create Hotel Marvell. We want to offer our guests an unparalleled experience that combines the beauty of the surroundings with the luxury of our accommodations," added Didier. The 24 spots to slumber include 16 hotel rooms, six suites and a pair of two-bedroom rooms, all equipped with private balconies. Guests will sleep on Bemboka & Eadie linens, hit up the mini bar stocked with locally sourced products, make coffee from their in-room Nespresso machine, and take in the Byron Bay vibe and surroundings. Keen on room service? That runs from 11am–8pm. For a dip, head to level three — and for a bite beyond your room, to Bonito, which features chef Minh Le (ex-Spicers Peak Lodge, The Byron at Byron, The Foraging Quail) at the helm. His menu heroes seafood and plant-based cuisine, as well as his own heritage. On offer: organic sourdough with house-cultured miso butter, oysters in a Japanese dressing and Hiromasa kingfish glazed with spiced soy sauce Harley Graham of Harley Graham Architects is responsible for the hotel's look, which skews tropical, warm and colourful — complete with plenty of greenery and a pedestrian laneway. Unsurprisingly, a night at Hotel Marvell doesn't come cheap, starting at $600 per night for a hotel room. If you're keen on a suite, that'll set you back at least $780. Find Hotel Marvell at 4 Marvell Street, Byron Bay from Tuesday, August 1 — head to the hotel's website for further details and to make a reservation. 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.
Marrickville ceramics studio Clay Sydney is bringing back its super-popular in-studio classes from June, so you can book in for a fun date night or catch up with a mate. After a brief hiatus due to COVID-19 restrictions (and moving classes online), the in-studio workshops will be running with limited class numbers. The studio's resident ceramicists will be running wine and cheese nights (BYO vino and cheese), where you'll learn the basics of ceramic design. You'll be hand-building a vase or mug out of white speckled clay then using vibrant glazes to finish. If you'd rather skip the snacks and get straight into getting your hands dirty, Clay hosts wheel throwing classes, plus date night-specific ones on Sunday evenings. The 90-minute classes will take you through how to throw clay on the wheel. Other classes include a mug and mimosa workshop and a planter party. At the end, you'll get to take home a perfectly imperfect product, handmade by you. You can check out times here. Or, if you're planning a special occasion, you can also arrange a private class — think hens parties, birthdays and corporate events. Clay Sydney has changed up its studio a bit to ensure safe social distancing, as well as implemented stricter cleaning routines. In-studio classes will set you back $80, which includes all the gear and guidance you need. For those who would prefer getting creative from the couch, Clay Sydney has been running its Clay At Home sessions ($55), which will continue. Online classes work like this: sign up and the studio will courier you clay and tools; watch the webinar at the scheduled time (or take an on-demand class), chat to the tutors and make your creation; drop your work off at the no-contact spot outside the Marrickville studio; the team will fire it; and you'll be able to pick it up from the no-contact pick-up point. You can also watch the webinar at a later date if you need. For future class dates and to book your spot, check the Clay Sydney website.
Australia keeps going dotty for Yayoi Kusama — and this time, one of the Japanese artist's dot-filled installations is sticking around on a permanent basis. Acquired by the National Gallery of Australia earlier this year, Kusama's pumpkin-focused infinity room The Spirits of the Pumpkins Descended into the Heavens is now on display at the Canberra gallery, opening today, Saturday, December 1. The piece was first exhibited in 2015 and last seen in Australia earlier this year, in Brisbane as part of the Gallery of Modern Art's Yayoi Kusama: Life Is the Heart of a Rainbow exhibition between October 2017 and February 2018. Comprised of a mirrored cube filled with yellow, dot-covered pumpkins, it's a quintessential Kusama work. Whether you're a devoted fan who considers visiting the artist's own Tokyo museum a bucket-list moment, or someone who has simply placed stickers around one of her obliteration rooms, you would've noticed that dots and the concept of infinity are crucial to her art — "our earth is only one polka dot among a million stars in the cosmos," she says. Inside the cube, the bulbous vegetables appear to create an endless field thanks to the shiny surface. On the outside of the cube, the structure's mirrored exterior reflects the yellow-and-black walls in the surrounding installation room — again, making it appear as though the pattern stretches on forever. The acquisition was made possible via a gift to the NGA from Andrew and Hiroko Gwinnett. "It has long-been my ambition to see a major contemporary Japanese artwork housed in Australia's national collection," said Andrew in a statement. "Kusama's playful installation is a legacy that will keep giving for generations to come." Find The Spirits of the Pumpkins Descended into the Heavens at the National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place, Parkes, Canberra. Images: Yayoi Kusama, THE SPIRITS OF THE PUMPKINS DESCENDED INTO HEAVENS 2015 — Installation view at The Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Nusantara (Museum MACAN). © Yayoi Kusama. Courtesy of Ota Fine Arts, Tokyo/ Singapore/ Shanghai. / Courtesy of National Gallery of Australia, installation view.
This lavish Japanese restaurant situated in the Heritage Lounge precinct on Church Street is pushing the envelope of elevated dining in Parramatta. Oribu blends modern techniques with a fusion of Korean and Japanese cuisine on a sophisticated menu. Head Chef Harry Cho (ex-Nobu) has crafted a menu of precisely constructed and beautifully presented dishes that aim to challenge preconceived notions of Japanese cuisine in the suburb. For starters, opt for the popcorn prawns paired with creamy, spicy sauce and a splash of yuzu juice, the variety of Japanese-style tacos or the deluxe sashimi selection. When deciding on mains, you're spoilt for choice. From nigiri to lamb cutlets with saikyo miso, custard crumbs and grilled cherry tomatoes, and succulent tenderloin brochettes that pair beautifully with pan-fried garlic broccolini or the saiko miso- and onion-topped crispy eggplant. It's all very well-considered from a flavour and texture perspective, and it's all very good. Round out your dining experience with a sweet treat. For a citrus hit, opt for the zingy yuzu sorbet with vanilla fairy floss or basil and lime tart, while the butterscotch bar offers a more indulgent cap to your meal. There's also the chef's tasting menu if you're feeling indecisive or just want to give the best of the menu a spin. Oribu has a moody ambience that sets the stage for an intimate date night or a lavish group celebration. The elegant fit-out features black interiors with flashes of greenery and a growing tree at the centre of its dining area.
There’s a rumbling in the north. The swift opening whoosh of shiny new doors, followed by a frantic cavalcade of foot traffic, as ravenous battalions of Sydneysiders clamber to taste test the newest offerings of the northern suburbs. From Cammeray to Cremorne, Mosman to Manly, there’s been a serious influx of contenders for the culinary crown of late — establishments somewhat under-appreciated by the more east-, west-, and southern-dwelling Sydneysiders. But winter is coming, and you’re going to want to know where to hole up. From Scandinavian-style eateries to quirky art bars, revamped bowling clubs to Italian jetty restaurants (and not to mention whatever Merivale is plotting in Newport), north Sydney's newest are staking their claim for the city's patronage — regardless of their crow-measured proximity from the CBD. Rally your troops and get amongst it. Correction: Mona Vale's La De Da bar was originally on this list. Unfortunately, we've since learned it's closed due to "operational costs proving too great". Better luck next time, Mona Vale.
Finally, here's a place to direct your writing skills, firsthand research on Sydney's small bar scene and excessive feelpinions on that latest play or movie. Concrete Playground is looking for interns. You'll be able to put your knowledge to use while learning the real ins and outs of producing arts, culture, food and lifestyle editorial in a fun and fast-paced online environment. Interns will work within our Redfern office one day per week for a set period of time. Working with the editorial team, you will be exposed to tasks such as writing, subediting, content production, photography and using social media. To apply for the role, you will need to demonstrate excellent writing skills as well as a love of and engagement with Sydney's cultural life. Expressions of interest should be addressed to editor Rima Sabina Aouf at contribute@concreteplayground.com.au. Include a short bio, CV and 2-3 samples of your written work. Image from Girls. Does not resemble real life, where you won't be kept in limbo for two years but will probably go on to a life of freelancing for us and radness.
In October of 2025, Sydney welcomed its newest boutique hotel in the form of The Olympia, the first Australian opening for 25hour Hotels in the building that was once the West Olympia Theatre and the Grand Pacific Blue Room. Now, it's a modern hotel that brings four standout eateries and 109 guest rooms to the Oxford Street address. The Olympia pays tribute to the site's early days with a commitment to a cinematic theme in its guest rooms, with design choices and room identities harkening to cinematic archetypes of 'Dreamers' and 'Renegades' alongside artwork from local creatives, including artist Kubi Vasak. [caption id="attachment_1069491" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Justin Nicholas[/caption] At the hotel's heart are the four food and drink venues, organised by Culinary Director Mitch Orr, alongside Food and Beverage Director Raj Vanniasinkam, Venue Manager Lillia McCabe, Head Sommelier Eleonore Wulf and Head of Beverage Roean Patawaran. Each of the venues was designed by London's Studio Paskin, while The Monica was created by food and beverage studio Carte Blanche. The headliner of the on-site offering is The Palomar, a London-native restaurant that brings a menu of flavours from Southern Europe, North Africa, and the Levant made with Australian ingredients. There's also The Mulwray, a wine bar dealing in biodynamic and classic wines; rooftop bar The Monica, which pairs share plates and cocktails with a skyline view and a 1960s Hollywood theme; and finally Jacob the Angel, a London-style cafe that serves specialty coffee and pastries by Lune on the ground floor. [caption id="attachment_1069492" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Steven Woodburn[/caption] Describing the vision for the hotel's hospitality offering, Mitch Orr said, "For me, it's always about the people: putting together a team who are passionate, collaborative, and driven enough to make every service feel electric. That's what makes hospitality exciting. The talent of the team here is really second to none. Working with Chloe [Sharp] again — she's an incredible chef who really sets the tone in the kitchen — and Luke [Davenport], who brings the depth of his head chef experience and time at The Palomar in London, I'm proud of the team we've pulled together and what we're about to share with Sydney." The rooms range in size from solo traveller-friendly queen-bed rooms with courtyard views, scaling up to king-size beds with views of Oxford Street, private terraces, and eventually suites that range between 29, 44 and 69 square metres of floor space, with suitably chic amenities to match. [caption id="attachment_1069490" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Justin Nicholas[/caption] "Bringing 25hours to Sydney is a very special moment for us. From the beginning, our vision has been to create hotels that are tied to their settings and are rich in character," said Christoph Hoffmann, Founder of 25hours Hotels. "The Olympia is a perfect match for that philosophy: a historic theatre with a colourful past, at the intersection of some of Sydney's most vibrant neighbourhoods." The Olympia can be found at 1 Oxford Street, Paddington. For more information or to make a booking, visit the 25hours Hotels website.
Visit the Chau Chak Wing Museum for an expedition back to one of the world's oldest civilisations. The Egyptian Galleries brings ancient Egypt to life with two imaginative (and free) exhibits that explore the culture's lasting legacy. The Mummy Room weaves together archaeological artefacts and modern science to showcase the lives of four different Egyptians. The exhibit features the coffins and mummified bodies of Meruah, Padiashaikhet, Horus and Mer-Neith-it-es, who lived in Egypt between 1200 BCE and 100 CE, and uses innovative CT technology to uncover previously indiscernible details about their health and lifestyles. Accompanying the captivating exhibit is Pharaonic Obsessions, which highlights the Egyptomania that swept Australia in the 19th century. On display are a range of ancient Egyptian artefacts collected by different Australians, such as ornate funerary objects and decorative tiles and columns. While you're there, check out the museum's other art, science and history exhibits — all of which you can explore for free. Get more details on The Egyptian Galleries and other exhibits at the Chau Chak Wing Museum's website.
Light and bright is the best way to describe Shutters, a restaurant and bar inside the Crowne Plaza hotel on Coogee Beach. Sunlight streams through the venue's white shutters, keeping with the vibe of a poolside Miami lounge bar — and it's name. Inside, you'll find marble tables, velvet chairs and booths in pale pastels, white and gold art deco fixtures, and pops of green from the big leafy plants dotted around the space. On the menu, the influences of Corsica and Sardinia are evident, from starters like stracciatella with roasted tomato oil, basil and olives ($16) to the flaky limoncello mille feuille ($14) being served for dessert. It's all about a leisurely afternoon meal at Shutters, beginning with fresh oysters with mignonette, horseradish granita or lemon and sea foam ($24 for six; $46 for 12). You'll also find some charcuterie and a warm octopus salad complete with kipfler potato, chorizo and orange ($18). Next, you can move on to pasta — try the king prawn and goats curd ravioli ($26), or a twist on lasagne with confit chicken, sofrito, cashews and avocado ($24). There's also a handful of main dishes (covering steak, spatchcock, fish and vego options), all of which are served with unlimited fries (yes) and salad. You can round off the meal with an after dinner mint granita, dark chocolate sorbet and sponge cake ($16). The drinks list complements the food offering, covering a few classic cocktails, five spritz varieties (including a strawberry and basil mix that is almost too tempting, $18), a smattering of tap and bottled beers, plus juice and kombucha. Wine is the main event, with drops coming from Italy, France and around Australia in equal numbers. Shutters is the first of four "micro" venues to open in Coogee Beach's Crowne Plaza. Soon to follow will be Estate: a bar, restaurant, taco joint and hidden karaoke spot. We'll let you know more about those when they open.
Now in its 13th year of operation, Woolahra's beautiful garden restaurant Chiswick has welcomed a new head chef. Samuel Rozsnyoi is now at the pass of Matt Moran's elegantly casual eastern suburbs spot, and his first menu showcases seasonal produce prepared with clever restraint, with an increased focus on approachability. Sydney-born Rozsnyoi has built quite a CV — he's worked at restaurants in Sydney, Denmark, Paris and Berlin. Here, he's trained under the likes of Josh Niland, Danielle Alvarez, Pasi Petanen and Mitch Orr, and he completed his apprenticeship at Ultimo TAFE while working under Nic Wong at Cho Cho San. More recently, he led the kitchens at Potts Point wine bar Dear Saint Éloise and buzzy Coogee neighbourhood restaurant Louie. "In heading up the kitchen at Chiswick, I'm looking forward to reinterpreting the vision of the kitchens that have shaped me over the course of my career," says Rozsnyoi. "Paci taught me all about layers and presentation, whereas Josh taught me the ins and outs of breaking down whole fish and making the most of the incredible produce that comes your way. Danielle Alvarez showed me the importance of cooking from the heart." This know-how diverges nicely with Chiswick's produce-driven, hyper-seasonal ethos. Rozsnyoi's debut menu makes full use of the restaurant's kitchen garden, and showcases the chef's creativity while sticking to Chiswick's fundamentals. That means that alongside Chiswick's much-loved slow-roasted lamb and beer-battered fish with hand-cut chips and labneh tartare, you'll also find dishes like baked lumache, mushroom, mozzarella, chilli, and a new grill section that features prime cuts from farmers including Ramarro Farms, Altair, Chris Bolton, as well as, on occasion, the Moran Family Farm. New desserts include a bay leaf custard tart and a salted caramel semifreddo served with seasonal fruit and honeycomb. "Matt Moran is someone who has shaped the culinary landscape of Australia, and the opportunity to bring a fresh perspective to all that Chiswick has established over the last 12 years is an incredible honour," says Rozsnyoi. In addition to a new chef leading the charge, Chiswick has also unveiled a new bar area, which welcomes guests looking for a more casual dining experience or those popping in for a drink and a snack. Rozsnyoi has also tweaked the bar menu, with new dishes like wood-roasted prawns with curry butter and pomelo, beef tartare with pumpkin panisse and comté sitting alongside the likes of Chiswick's crowd-favourite 'barra-masalata'. "Chiswick has been a mainstay of Sydney's dining scene for over ten years, and it's Samuel's passion for produce-driven cooking and his talent for creating dishes that are both refined and approachable that make him the perfect fit for our philosophy," says Matt Moran, Chiswick's co-owner. "I've actually had my eye on Sam for a while…he's one of the brightest young talents in the Sydney food scene right now. I can't wait for our guests to experience his cooking." Chiswick is located at 65 Ocean Street, Woollahra. For more information, head to the venue's website. Images: Zi Chen Photography.
In the late nineteenth century, a young Henry Lawson had moved to the city and was on his way to becoming perhaps the era's defining writer, as well as a prolific drinker and fixture in many of the city's pubs. The Edinburgh Castle, which dates back to 1885, was apparently a favoured spot for him to hole up for a beer-fuelled writing session — and the recent refurbishment to the Hotel pays tribute to this legacy with an Australiana theme. In the upstairs bar — a surprisingly sedate oasis in a busy corner of the city — the walls have been painted a deep shade of bottle green and the room studded with vases of bottlebrush and other colourful native flora. Beautiful leadlight windows keep the space relatively light while maintaining its Georgian architecture. However, it's not just the design that is warmly nostalgic; one of the best things food can achieve is reminding you of your childhood and an unfussy, delicious plate of grilled lamb cutlets ($20) with a generous dollop of mint jelly are a memory-starting carbon copy of how my grandmother made them. A floury, scone-like ball of damper ($8) is another nod to the Australiana theme. Head chef Daniel Lanza was previously sous chef at North Bondi Fish, so you'd expect the seafood to be on point — and, as it turn out, the simply-presented but delicious roast snapper ($25) doesn't disappoint. Scattered with capers and sitting alongside a green and gold zucchini, herb and squash salad, it's the kind of dish that always returns to the kitchen as a clean plate. Their take on the schnitty — the saltbush chicken schnitzel ($22) — is well-seasoned and one of the heartier options, sitting alongside crispy potatoes and chunky tomato sauce. It's a menu that embraces the truly old-school, with upmarket sausage rolls, devon and cheese toasties and daggy-but-delicious sides like a basket of fat, golden house-made potato scallops ($8). They come sprinkled with chicken salt and will remind you of afternoons getting takeaway on the way home from school. A small bowl of plump, juicy glazed Chantenay carrots ($9) is another example of the honest, unpretentious fare on offer. A couple of true blue desserts would be a nice addition, but there is an all-Australian wine list with the likes of a 2015 'The Whip' Riesling from Canberra's Capital Wines, which offers floral notes. Cocktails (all $18) are sound from the sweet Lawson's Cup which benefits from the berry-like flavour of hibiscus-infused gin. City Slick — a nicely balanced gin and citrus combination — is probably the pick though. Then there's the Old Spiced Pal, which makes the inspired addition of cinnamon to a classic cocktail (people love cinnamon). Overall, the refurbishment has given the Edinburgh Castle a real sense of identity, and looks to the hotel's past to provide a vibrant future for the venue.
Some of the world's very best cocktail bars and makers will be in Sydney this month, as the Maybe Cocktail Festival returns for its third edition. Taking place from April 7–13, the event will see 20 of the world's best bars, including seven bars ranked in The World's 50 Best Bars 2024 list, taking over some of Sydney's very best bars for Australia's biggest international cocktail event. With these noteworthy cocktail shakers hosting 25 events over the festival's seven days, you won't have to look far to discover signature cocktails, exclusive collabs and world-class hospitality. So, who's on the lineup this year? Landing at #9 on The World's 50 Best Bars 2024 (and #2 on Asia's 50 Best Bars 2024), Seoul's Zest will take over Prefecture 48 for a headline event, while Barcelona's Paradiso (#10) will get down to El Primo Sanchez to showcase its creative libations. Also in attendance are a host of high-profile names from around the globe, including Connaught Bar (#13) and Satan's Whiskers (#29) from London, Buenos Aires' CoChinChina (#22) and Florería Atlántico (#46) and Milan's Moebius (#38). They'll be landing at world-class Sydney venues including Little Cooler, Dean & Nancy on 22, Whisky Thief and more. This edition of the Maybe Cocktail Festival boasts the event's most gender-balanced lineup to date. Among the acclaimed bartenders making the trip, there's Sarah Dawn Mitchell from Teresa Bar (Napier, New Zealand), Gan Kwok Yee from Cosmo Pony (Jakarta), and Daniela Negrete Leal and Gina Barbachano from Brujas (Mexico City). "In its third year, Maybe Cocktail Festival has become a must-attend event for cocktail lovers, and I'm incredibly proud that so many of the world's best bars are eager to be part of it," says festival director Stefano Catino. "These bartenders aren't just flying in to make drinks — they're showcasing their expertise, creativity, and the unique hospitality that has made their bars world-renowned." Whether you're a Sydney local or just visiting, the festival is a stellar opportunity to experience the best of international cocktail culture. You can sip agave-centred cocktails from Mexico City's top bars, discover what makes New York hospitality so special and experience the bold flavours driving Singapore's bar scene from strength to strength. You can RSVP to any guest shift, workshop or party of your choosing via the event's website, and you can buy two tokens at the door of each venue — $50 will get you two cocktails from visiting bartenders. The Maybe Cocktail Festival is happening from Monday, April 7–Sunday, April 13, 2025, at various venues across Sydney. Head to the festival's website for more information.
Since first appearing on-screen back in 1997, Borat Sagdiyev has always stood out. In 2006 mockumentary Borat! Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan, which sees Sacha Baron Cohen's fictional Kazakh journalist head to the "US and A" and chat with ordinary Americans across the country, that's a big part of the point. And in surprise 14-years-later sequel Borat Subsequent Moviefilm: Delivery of Prodigious Bribe to American Regime for Make Benefit Once Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan, that also remains the case — even if he has to don over-the-top disguises because he's now quite famous in the US. Before Borat Subsequent Moviefilm starts streaming globally from Friday, October 23 via Amazon Prime Video, Borat is standing out in another way, too: via a towering statue of the character that has been helicoptered into Bondi Beach for 24 hours. As Borat would say, "very excite!". It's a promotional move for the film, obviously, but if you've ever wanted to stare up at a giant version of the moustachioed figure — who is scantily dressed, even in sculpture form — then here is your chance. Sydneysiders can find the six-metre statue at Marks Park until 11am tomorrow, Friday, October 23, featuring a reclining Borat clad only in an American flag. The very nice sculpture was unveiled today as part of a press conference which featured a streamed appearance by the character, a big display of Kazakh flags and a parade of Borat look-alikes wearing nothing but maskinis — yes, they're face masks turned into mankinis, because of course they are. As for the movie itself, it's exactly what you'd expect of Borat's return visit to the US — especially during an election year, as American politics seems more polarised than ever, and as COVID-19 affects the country. While last time he travelled across the nation after falling in love with Pamela Anderson, now he's trying to gift his daughter to Vice President Mike Pence (or "vice pussy grabber", as Borat calls him). His aim: to get Kazakhstan's own leader into President Donald Trump's good graces, and specifically his "strong man club", which refers to Trump's penchant for promoting his ties with the likes of Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un. Along the way, Borat tries to kill the coronavirus by hitting it with a frying pan, dresses up like Trump to infiltrate a conservative conference and struggles with the daughter he previously didn't even know he had. As he always does, Baron Cohen also uses his time back in the character's grey suit to expose plenty of engrained, overt and unpleasant viewpoints and prejudice among those he meets. And, he also has a run-in with Rudy Giuliani that's been garnering plenty of news headlines over the past day. Check out the Borat Subsequent Moviefilm trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Rsa4U8mqkw&feature=youtu.be The Borat sculpture is on display at Marks Park, Bondi Beach until 11am tomorrow, Friday, October 23. Borat Subsequent Moviefilm: Delivery of Prodigious Bribe to American Regime for Make Benefit Once Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan will be available to stream via Amazon Prime Video from Friday, October 23.
There is no wrong time of day for devouring Italian food — leftover pasta makes as good a breakfast as dinner, after all. If you agree (which we're sure you do), here's some red-hot intel: Darlinghurst's new bright spot Fortuna has added a bottomless feast to their offering. The diner arrived on Victoria Street from two hospo mainstays, George Nahas and Egon Marzaioli, in late 2021. When it's not treating Sydneysiders to Italian feasts and endless mimosas, it's a breezy all-day eatery pulling from Marzaioli's early years in Naples. And now, from 12pm till 8.30pm every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, you can enjoy a share-style table of treats and 90 minutes of endless Aperol spritzes, negronis, Peronis, mimosas and a selection of vinos for $89. On arrival, expect a slice of warm, housemade focaccia and an array of truly delish antipasti (think Sicilian olives, Princi soppressa mortadella, salami, marinated tomatoes and burrata dressed in a vivid-green herby oil). Then, porchetta with crisp and golden potatoes as a main. All that plus stand-out bevs to wash it down? A delicious bargain. If you want to bolster the meal with some heartier dishes, you can add an additional $10 per person and the table will be treated to two pastas from the menu. Uniquely, and in a move that's sure to keep the vibes merry, staff will present the Wheel of Fortuna for guests to spin. Hope you're feeling lucky, cos you can win or lose. Maybe you'll score a round of shots for the table, or you might be left gifting a round of shots to the staff. Fortuna's bottomless feast is offered from 12–8.30pm on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Head to the website to make a booking.
Sydneysiders love a market — especially one that specialises in top-notch pre-loved clothing. There's nothing like finding a quality item at a clothing market. There's the thrill of searching through the racks to stumble upon the piece, plus shopping secondhand and upcycled clothing is more sustainable than buying your clothes new. If this all sounds entirely relatable, Second Life Markets are a must-visit for you. Usually, this hub of independent designers and secondhand clothing stalls pops up in Sydney once a season; however, with its autumn edition scheduled in May, it has just announced a one-off sundowner market on King Street in collaboration with Newtown favourite So Familia. Known for its 2000s-style pre-loved and deadstock clothing and accessories, So Familia is a go-to in the Inner West for those looking towards naughties-era Paris Hilton and Nicole Scherzinger for fashion inspo. Over 30 stalls are lined up to take place as part of the mini market which, will run from 3–8pm on Sunday, April 2 at 426 King Street. There will also be pizza, drinks and tunes, ensuring the markets are a vibrant Sunday afternoon experience. Plus, it's dog-friendly, so make sure to bring along your fluffiest companions so they can stretch their legs before you head back to work for the week. Entry is $5 and, in the sustainable spirit of the market, you're asked to bring your own reusable shopping bag(s) with you on the day. The Second Life Markets run successful quarterly events across Sydney, Perth and, as of October, Melbourne. The seasonal events bring together local sellers and independent designers, as well as a heavy dose of good vibes. You can stay up to date with when each new city's next market is arriving at the Second Life Instagram. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Second Life Markets (@secondlifemarkets)
Huge birthday, huge program, huge list of reasons to spend an entire year at the Sydney Opera House. Come October 2023, the iconic Australian venue will reach its 50th birthday, and it's doing what everyone does when it hits a massive milestone: celebrating for as long as possible. In fact, the Opera House is dedicating 12 whole months to its 50th-anniversary shenanigans, starting a year in advance. From October 2022, the acclaimed Sydney Harbour venue will kick off the festivities in the most fitting way — with From the Sails: Light Years, a nightly projection series featuring new art by Sam Doust and Art Processors, which'll adorn the structure's famous sails from Wednesday, October 19–Sunday, 30. Obviously, that's just the beginning of a hefty program, with the already-announced Amadeus starring Michael Sheen taking over the site's newly revamped Concert Hall from Tuesday, December 27, 2022–Saturday, January 21, 2023, too. Also on the bill: a full lineup that spans 230-plus performances, events and experiences, covering outdoor concerts, community events, First Nations storytelling, tours, public art, exhibitions and more, and happening in the venue's theatres, on its forecourt and online. From Thursday, October 20–Sunday, 30, that includes From the Steps: Voices at Dusk, which'll see local community choirs — as curated by resident company Sydney Philharmonia Choirs' Artistic Director Brett Weymark OAM — sing free open-air choral performances on the Opera House steps. Also outdoors, this time running from Thursday, November 10–Saturday, November 19, is a concert series at the Opera House's forecourt featuring Tim Minchin, New Zealand's Fat Freddy's Drop and two shows by Vance Joy. There'll be two free gigs, too — one dedicated to Yolŋu music and culture with Djakapurra Munyarryun, Dhapanbal Yunupingu, the Andrew Gurruwiwi Band and more on the lineup, and another that'll see Ngaiire and the Sydney Symphony Orchestra join forces. [caption id="attachment_871449" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ngaiire[/caption] While Sydney Opera House hasn't unveiled the full program yet, with further events set to be announced in the coming months, the rest of the lineup so far features two big festivals: Inside/Out at the House and Open House Festival. The first will arrive at the beginning of May 2023, heroing performances by the London Symphony Orchestra, Australian Ballet, Sydney Symphony Orchestra, Sydney Philharmonia Choirs and Australian Chamber Orchestra. Each show will take place inside either the Concert Hall or the Joan Sutherland Theatre, but you'll also be able to watch in the forecourt, where they'll be broadcast to an openair cinema setup. At the second, Open House Festival will live up to its name across the entire month of October 2023. That means hosting performances, events and activities in every part of the Opera House, and also holding an open day where attendees can go exploring. [caption id="attachment_871446" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ken Leanfore[/caption] Plus, Bangarra Dance Theatre will unveil the world premiere of a new production in June 2023, under incoming Artistic Director Frances Rings. Sydney Theatre Award-winning play The Visitors will receive a new staging, directed by Quandamooka man Wesley Enoch — and the Opera House will present Blak & Deadly: The First Nations Gala Concert in conjunction with Sydney WorldPride 2023. Also, the Central Australian Aboriginal Women's Choir (CAAWC) — which hails from six remote Indigenous communities in the Northern Territory — will unleash their vocals in the Concert Hall, German operatic tenor Jonas Kaufmann and an international cast will perform La Gioconda, and Mad Scenes by Jessica Pratt will showcase the Australian talent. [caption id="attachment_871445" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Daniel Boud[/caption] Marking a full-circle moment given that it was part of the Opera House's opening in 1973, Sydney Dance Company will stage three works. And, there'll be a revamped Opera House tour that highlights past performances and historic moments. Clearly, this year-long party is going to be massive — it's supported by the NSW Government's Blockbuster Funding initiative, and 'blockbuster' is the right word for it. [caption id="attachment_871453" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Prudence Upton[/caption] Sydney Opera House's 50th anniversary program kicks off in October 2022 and runs for a year. For more information, head to the Sydney Opera House website. Top images: Prudence Upton / Keith Saunders / Anna Kacera.
You might picture gold when the prospect of exploring the Bendigo region comes up, but you'll quickly discover that the city and its surrounding townships are full of contemporary cultural landmarks and unique places to visit. Whether you plan on taking a stroll along the Bendigo Artists Walk or want to pay a visit to the Buda Historic Home and Garden, you'll be happy to know that a host of incredible stays are waiting for you to rest your weary head at the end of the day. From the cutest country cottages to converted halls and glamping homesteads, we've teamed up with Bendigo Regional Tourism to bring you a list of the most distinctive places to stay and use as a launchpad to explore the best cultural hotspots of Bendigo, Castlemaine and beyond. [caption id="attachment_746467" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Mackenzie Quarters.[/caption] VISIT BENDIGO ART GALLERY AND STAY IN A 140-YEAR-OLD BENDIGO ICON Since undergoing a stellar facelift in 2014, the Bendigo Art Gallery has emerged as one of Australia's top regional art institutions. Having hosted some world-class contemporary art exhibitions throughout its esteemed history, the gallery's modern design draws in visitors from across Australia. In recent months, they've been coming in droves to gaze upon the showcase of influential fashion designer Cristóbal Balenciaga. After the exhibition closes on November 10, the gallery will welcome works from Gunditjmara/Yorta Yorta artist Joshua Muir — What's on your mind? will run from November 31–March 1, 2020. You can't stay much closer to the Bendigo Gallery than The Residence at Mackenzie Quarters. Mackenzie Quarters was built in 1877 as the deanery for the neighbouring school hall and was referred to as 'The Master's Residence'. It's located in the heart of the arts precinct, and cuts a striking figure, right across the road from the gallery. The residence has been lovingly restored to offer guests modern conveniences across five bedrooms, two bathrooms and multiple entertaining spaces. Come February 2020, there'll also be a sophisticated wine bar in the premise's basement. [caption id="attachment_746487" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sandhurst Ridge Winery Bed & Breakfast.[/caption] EXPLORE THE GREAT STUPA AND FINISH THE DAY WITH WINE STRAIGHT FROM THE VINEYARD An absolute must-visit when in the region is the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion, an enormous Buddhist pagoda. Symbolising the path to enlightenment and providing a calm place to meditate, this (almost) 50-metre tall structure is the largest example of a stupa in the Western world. To continue the calming vibes, head to Sandhurst Ridge Vineyard for a relaxing bed and breakfast experience amid the greenery, or treat yourself to a luxurious stay at Balgownie Estate Winery Retreat. Choose from a self-contained cottage with views of Sandhurst's tranquil pond, vineyard and bushland, or one of 15 glamping tents dotted across the Balgownie Estate grounds. There's even a personal outdoor soaker tub on the deck of the safari-style tents on offer. [caption id="attachment_746947" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Scout Hall, Harcourt.[/caption] WANDER AROUND CASTLEMAINE ART MUSEUM AND SPEND THE NIGHT IN THE OLD SCOUT HALL Founded in 1913, the Castlemaine Art Museum is one of regional Victoria's most striking cultural landmarks. The museum boasts a delightful art deco design with purpose-built galleries showing everything from historical artefacts to contemporary art, including the 2019 Experimental Print Prize exhibition, which opens December 7 and runs until May 2020. The leafy township of Castlemaine is located within the heart of the Victorian goldfields. It's little wonder this area is a hub for creative types — it's surrounded by quaint little towns and stunning bushland waiting to be explored for inspiration. Earn your explorers badge with a stay in nearby Harcourt at the old Scout Hall, which is complete with a stage for forcing your friends and family to watch you perform. The luxury self-contained apartment retains plenty of its original charm — including soaring ceilings, exposed arch beams and shiny wood floorboards — but has been upgraded so you get all the modern things you need like a nice kitchen and wifi. [caption id="attachment_746297" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Big4 Castlemaine Gardens Holiday Park.[/caption] CHECK OUT THE BUDA HISTORIC HOME AND SLEEP IN A LUXURY BELL TENT Once the legendary property of prominent Hungarian silversmith Ernest Leviny, today the Buda Historic Home and Garden provides a fully intact glimpse into the past with furniture, artwork and personal belongings remaining much the same as the home's heyday back in the 19th century. A visit to the property is a day well spent, with three acres of heritage garden to explore as well as a gift shop and plant nursery so you can take home a piece of the history. Continue the garden vibes of your getaway at the nearby Big 4 Holiday Park. Stay with us — this isn't your typical caravan park. Set on the edge of the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens, you can get yourself a luxury bell tent complete with a queen-size bed and exceptionally comfortable linen. You'll be glamping in style on a timber deck, perfect for kicking back with a bottle of vino, looking out to the greenery. [caption id="attachment_746549" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Fairbank House.[/caption] SPEND THE NIGHT IN A COTTAGE SURROUNDED BY GREENERY AND STOP BY CASCADE ART Set inside a former Gothic Revival church, Cascade Art is a stunning regional cultural landmark that any big city would be grateful to have. Led by long-term Maldon residents Kareen Anchen and Jeff Gardner, the place is more than just an art gallery — it also hosts regular creative launches, artist talks, workshops and pop-up events. It also supports emerging printmakers from across the region. Just across town, you'll find a cute Victorian cottage that's perfect for a weekend getaway. The stylish Fairbank House has plenty of entertaining spaces and lovely country garden vibes but is also conveniently located to explore the rest of Maldon, a picturesque town that has maintained much of its 19th-century architecture in tribute to rich gold rush-era history. [caption id="attachment_746305" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Pretty Cottage.[/caption] EXPLORE THE CENTRAL GOLDFIELDS FROM HISTORICAL TALBOT Presenting artwork inspired by the wonders of the Central Goldfields, Maryborough's Central Goldfields Art Gallery offers visitors a frequently changing lineup of exhibitions that draw from its vast permanent collection and a range of local creative talent. Home to works by seminal Australian artists such as Dean Bowen, Arthur Boyd and Ray Crooke, the space has everything from landscapes to textile art on display. While in the area, you can also visit Possum Gully Fine Arts Gallery. This bush gallery exhibits a unique collection of works from established Australian artists, covering disciplines including printmaking, painting, drawing, art glass and ceramics. If it's local history and creativity that interests you, the neighbouring town of Talbot is the perfect spot to make your home for the weekend. We found a particularly Pretty Cottage, which was built way back in the 1880s. The fully restored home and its quaint country garden will be all yours during your stay. [caption id="attachment_747414" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Learmonths Place[/caption] STEP INTO HISTORY AT WEDDERBURN'S COACH HOUSE GALLERY THEN ESCAPE TO A FARM For a brief moment in the 1850s, Wedderburn had a significant role in the Victorian gold rush. It only lasted a few years, but the tight-knit community continues to present travellers with a glimpse into the past. The Coach House Gallery and Museum is where to head to see the best work from local artists, while there's also a replica general store that harks back to a time more than a hundred years ago. If you're after a real getaway from city life, there's a 22-acre property on the Loddon River ready to act as your home away from home after a day of exploring Wedderburn and surrounds. Learmonths Place is a fully renovated family farmhouse, where you can breathe fresh country air and enjoy taking in the river views and starry nights. [caption id="attachment_747412" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Rostrata Country House[/caption] ANTIQUE SHOP 'TIL YOU DROP AND THEN RELAX IN NATURE If you're a lover of knick-knacks and collectables, you may have already known that Inglewood is a must-visit when it comes to searching for antique goods. Wander down Brooke Street and you'll soon discover everything from art, books and French furniture being sold in stores such as Fusspots at Inglewood, Sharps Bazaar and Inglewood Emporium. After all that shopping, you'll need somewhere to rest and rejuvenate, so why not escape to Rostrata Country House. Just a short drive from Inglewood through Tarnagulla (the town of churches), the farm stay lets you enjoy the quiet country life for as long as you like. The fully contained home has space for six, plenty of seating in the gardens, and bikes you can use to explore. To start planning your trip to Bendigo and to discover more cultural happenings in the region (and beyond), head to the Bendigo Regional Tourism website. Top image: Rostrata Country House.
A sad fact about cozzie livs going up and up is that the amount of cash people have to spend on their family and friends shrinks and shrinks. Fortunately, Afterpay is bringing back its Pay It Forward Mystery Market from 8am on Thursday, August 14, to address what it's calling the 'generosity gap'. Centred around a standout activation tucked into Pitt Street Mall, the first 1000 Afterpay customers will score themselves a mystery box, taking home the prize inside and receiving an identical one to present to a loved one. Just don't think you'll be walking away with socks and undies. Featuring a total prize pool valued at over $200,000, there's no shortage of incredible gifts perfect for spreading the good times. Up for grabs are a $5,000 Webjet voucher, a Dyson Airwrap, or even a Nintendo Switch 2 — just imagine non-stop multiplayer fun with your best pal. Meanwhile, other much-loved brands like Ninja, CROCS, Petbarn, Red Balloon and Prezzee are getting in on the action. With Afterpay Day happening from Thursday, August 14–Sunday, August 17, the Pay It Forward Mystery Market signals the start of this bi-annual shopping event.
Heads up wellness junkies, superfood latte purveyors and plant-based peeps: a snow-filled winter market is coming to the Grounds of Alexandria. And it'll be stocked with vegan s'mores, hot wine and many (many) more healthy(ish) winter treats. The night will be a mash-up of a wholefood market and a winter wonderland. You'll be able to explore a snow-filled arena, sip organic mulled wine and toast vegan s'mores (yes, vegan s'mores) over a fire pit. Or, fill up a mug at the colourful superfood latte fountain then visit the olive barn to watch olive leaves being turned into olive oil. Apparently you can also exercise and have your smoothie, too — warm up on the smoothie bicycle and blitz your very own healthy smoothie via a pedal-powered blender. Enjoy a healthy woodfired pizza while you sip on a healthy cocktail, but don't fill up just yet — there'll be a host of laneway carts and market stalls offering product samplings and tastings under the fairy lights. Peanut butter fiends can find the 'world's best PB' (apparently), or you can just sip on multicoloured lattes and taste healthy curries. If you're trying to cut back on the alcohol, good news — there'll even be an alcohol-free gin. After you've got your fill, head to the cooking and demonstration theatre to listen to a talk or cooking demo from a line-up of health and wellbeing gurus. The market is thanks to GoodnessMe Box, a monthly subscription box filled with delicious health foods and samples to try, which has partnered with the inner-city food hot-spot to bring the event back for its second year. You can snag your early-bird ticket here, which includes entry as well as a GoodnessMe box to take home — offering a delicious range of tried-and-tested, natural products. The Winter Wonderland Wholefood Night Markets is open from 5.30–7.45pm and 7.45–10.30pm.
Who said cocktails were just for drinking? Grain Bar at Four Seasons Hotel Sydney is throwing out the rule book with its latest cocktail menu, which has been designed to ignite all five senses. Crafted by Grain Bar's in-house mix master Sarath Nair, the Epic Sensory Cocktails menu is a five-drink lineup designed to tickle your taste buds, gnaw at your nose, mess with your vision, and even get your hands in on the action. Each creation has been inspired by one of the five senses — sight, sound, smell, taste and touch — and they drinks are made to be felt just as much as they're made to be sipped. The most theatrical of the bunch? That'd be Shattered, a rosemary-smoked, rye whisky-based cocktail encased in a globe of ice that takes Nair 14 hours to handcraft, but will likely take you 0.14 seconds to smash open with the tiny hammer with which it's served. It's not every day that you can get away with playing with your food — especially not at a five-star hotel — so be sure to enjoy it. If you're looking to light up your olfactory senses, go for The Perfumed Bloom, a delicate jasmine and sparkling wine number served with a house-made cherry blossom perfume to spritz and sniff before sipping. Other standouts include the visually stunning Heart of the Garden, served under a glass cloche which is lifted tableside to reveal clouds of lemongrass and ginger smoke. Under the cloche, the elegant citrus and floral drink is presented on a miniature garden and topped with an edible jelly heart. Additionally, the Pina Fizz is a playful, tropical, rum-based sipper featuring pineapple and coconut soda, and served with fairy floss for a soft, tactile surprise. And if you really want your tastebuds to dance, the mushroom-infused vodka in the Palette Pop will take your palate on a ride through each of the five flavour notes — sweet, sour, bitter, salty and umami. It's also fully customisable according to your tastes, so feel free to turn up the dial on your preferred flavour. "I've worked in cocktail bars across the world with the Four Seasons," says Nair. "With the launch of Epic Sensory Cocktails, I wanted to create something that pushes the boundaries. These aren't just drinks, they're stories brought to life through the senses. From the smash of ice to a spritz of cherry blossom perfume, each detail is designed to awaken and surprise." The Epic Sensory Cocktails menu is now available at Grain Bar Four Seasons Hotel Sydney, 199 George Street, The Rocks. For more information, head to the venue's website.
Game, set, match, music: the 2024 Australian Open might be jam-packed with Grand Slam tennis action, but it's also serving up a few aces for fans of live tunes. In 2023, the annual Melbourne sports event launched the AO Finals Festival, which gets a heap of talents taking to the stage. Unsurprisingly proving a hit, the fest returns this year. Attendees will be treated to a program of live acts on three of the event's final four days, all in John Cain Arena. 2024's AO Finals Fest will start on Thursday, January 25, on AO Pride Day. Then, it's back for both the women's final on Saturday, January 27 and the men's equivalent on Sunday, January 28. A stellar lineup awaits, including Tash Sultana, Peach PRC and Yaeji on the Thursday; DMA's, Ruel and The Jungle Giants on the Saturday; and Groove Armada, Rudimental and Sunshine & Disco Faith Choir on the Sunday. Just like in 2023, the stacked bill doesn't come as too much of a surprise, given that it has again been curated with help from the respected music heads at Untitled Group — the brains behind Pitch Music & Arts, For The Love, Grapevine Gathering and more. Expect plenty of company, with the 2023 event selling out. Accordingly, 2024's AO Finals Festival has moved venues, shifting to John Cain Arena to take advantage of its 10,000-person capacity. Tickets can be bought individually per day, or matchgoers can upgrade their tennis tickets to head to the festival. As always, there'll be scores of food and drink pop-ups scattered throughout Melbourne Park, as well as big screens showing all the on-court action. AO FINALS FESTIVAL 2024 LINEUP: Thursday, January 25: AO Pride Day Tash Sultana Peach PRC Yaeji Anesu Djanaba DJ Luv You Saturday, January 27: Women's final DMA's Ruel The Jungle Giants Tia Gostelow Mell Hall Sunday, January 28: Men's final Groove Armada Rudimental Sunshine & Disco Faith Choir Latifa Tee Cooper Smith Images: Ash Caygill.
Sydney sneakerheads, get ready to geek out over some of the rarest sneakers, streetwear pieces and apparel on the market — because Australia's largest sneaker convention, Sneakerland, is coming to town. The event creates a huge space for all collectors, resellers, content creators and anyone who just loves sneakers, to get together with likeminded kicks freaks to buy, sell, trade and just breathe in the heady fragrance of all that leather, Nubuck and canvas. On Saturday, December 2, Carriageworks will be filled with thousands of sneakers from over 50 different vendors and brands. Across the past two events in Melbourne and Perth, more than 13,000 footwear enthusiasts have congregated with more than $1.2 million of wares being traded on the convention floor. A horde of hardcore sneaker lovers will be at Sneakerland Sydney and, if you count yourself among them, come ready to fight over ultra exclusive shoes and apparel. But this event isn't only for cashed-up collectors. First off, there are stacks of more affordable sneakers available from both local and international sellers. And, the sneaker museum will be a huge drawcard no matter your budget. Sneakerland will also feature a heap of entertainment, setting the vibe as you peruse — and maybe purchase — all that footwear. As well as live sneaker auctions, a sneaker verification station and sneaker cleaning services, attendees will be able to get around basketball comps, try to win their share in $35,000 worth of prizes, hit up the tattoo station, nab a free haircut, fuel up at the food trucks, go head-to-head at the gaming station, and listen to DJs and a live podcast recording. While general tickets cost $30, if you nab a VIP ticket for $100 you're in for some extra swag. You'll score early access to the event, food and drinks, and a private lounge to relax in. There'll also be special live auctions featuring the most sought-after items — so if you're looking to beat all others on the trading floor, this is for you. Sneakerland Sydney takes place on Saturday, December 2 at Carriageworks. For more information, head to the event's website. Early bird tickets are on sale on Friday, June 30 via Ticketmaster.
