If you like things that slither, slide and go bump in the night, you'll feel right at home with a visit to the soon-to-launch Sydney Zoo, which has just announced its grandest addition: the Reptile and Nocturnal House. The largest of its kind in the country, it'll be home to over 40 species of reptiles and another 20 species of nocturnal animals. The collection's set to feature creatures like ghost bats, endangered spotted-tailed quolls, giant grasshoppers and the world's two most venomous snakes: the inland taipan and eastern brown snake. What's more, these guys will be living it up in environmentally sustainable luxury. As one of Australia's first green roof habitats, the building and surrounds have been designed to blend in with the natural landscape, decked out with a carefully chosen collection of native grasses. The green roof also helps to keep a stable climate for the animals, and the interior of each exhibit has been created to mirror what they'd be used to in the wild. Opening in the city's west in Bungarribee, near the Great Western Highway, Sydney Zoo is set to be the first new major zoo to open in Sydney in over 100 years. First announced back in 2015, it's slated to finally launch to the public in the coming weeks with raised boardwalks and over 2000 animals. While it's exact opening date hasn't been announced just yet, we're told it'll be swinging open its doors before the end of the year. Sydney Zoo is slated to open at 700 Great Western Highway, Bungarribee before the end of the year. We'll let you know when an exact date is announced.
Maybe Sammy is not only on our list of the best bars in Sydney — it's on just about everyone else's too, including anyone who gives out bar awards. It was named in the top 50 bars in the world in 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022 — and named the Best Bar in Australasia at The World's 50 Best Bars in all four years. Back in 2019, it was also named the Best International New Cocktail Bar at the 2019 Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards in New Orleans. It was even named the Best International Bar Team at the Tales of the Cocktail 2022 Spirited Awards. The accolades come hard and fast. And it's clear to see why. The team, led by Creative Director Martin Hudak, has created one of the most spectacular cocktail menus — ranging from mini cocktails to the martini trolleys and extra opulent Premium Pours made from some of the finest spirits in the world. Its coffee cocktails are also that extra bit special. There's a total of five different versions, including the classic Espresso Martini made with vodka, Mr Black coffee liqueur and a shot of espresso and the Irish Coffee made from Irish whiskey, Honduras Montecillos coffee, muscovado, honey, almonds and cream — this last one being the perfect dessert cocktail. Head to Maybe Sammy for one of these bad boys after dining elsewhere in The Rocks. And if you want to try Maybe Sammy but don't live in Sydney, it also sends a series of bottled cocktails all over Australia. Go for the Jasmine Negroni, Eucalyptus Gimlet or Chamomile Martini. They also make a great present for your cocktail-loving pals. A team with this many awards isn't going to let you go hungry either. The food menu comes equipped with the expected range of bar snacks done to the highest standard, including Sydney rock oysters, truffled cheese toasties, tinned fish and mortadella focaccia. The Maybe Sammy experience is complete with a fit-out that emulates a high-end hotel bar. Designed by Sydney's LD Studio, the space is opulent, with pink velvet banquettes, gold lamps, brass fittings, marble tiles and lots of indoor plants. You can pop into Maybe Sammy for happy hour and taste your way through the mini cocktails or go full on treat 'yoself by ordering the extra spenny tipples — the likes of which you will not find anywhere else in Australia. Either way, you'll see why the team have won so many local and international bar awards. Drink up. Images: DS Oficina Updated Tuesday, March 21, 2023. Appears in: The Best Bars in Sydney
They're small, they're located off the beaten path and they're nestled among nature — and they're your next reason to make your way to Byron Bay. You probably don't need an excuse to head to the popular New South Wales town now that the country is opening back up, but Unyoked's new tiny cabins in the surrounding hinterland are as good a motivating factor as anything else, especially if you're keen to end 2020 or start 2021 with a stint of seclusion. If your idea of a perfect escape is a remote cabin, surrounded by wilderness with no Wi-Fi, this news may just have you hitting 'book' straight away. The Aussie startup already has a number of compact cabins located around NSW, Victoria and Queensland, but it has just launched its first two in NSW's Northern Rivers region — about an hour out of Byron Bay, at the end of a valley and surrounded by citrus trees (and plenty of quiet, obviously). Like its other properties, newcomers Ashi and Pana have been placed in secret patches of wilderness on private properties, in the middle of nowhere. Ashi is located next to a creek, and both tiny houses boast their own outdoor bath. So, yes, they're perfect for summer stays. [caption id="attachment_794493" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] trentandjessie[/caption] The exact locations are still under wraps as Unyoked aims to make sure your stay is a bit of an adventure, by only revealing the address for your chosen house two days before you're due to set off. It has revealed that it's upping its food game, though — with Unyoked launching packages called 'Food Sorted' to help take care of your sustenance needs while you're switching off. A collaboration with Ragazzi Pasta and Wine and Fabricca, they're available for Sydneysiders to pick up before they head to their chosen cabin, and include Ragazzia pastas, toasted sandwiches, a range of meats and cheeses, and pre-prepared restaurant-style desserts in jars. Everything is designed to be cooked over the fire or in the tiny house, too. [caption id="attachment_794498" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Kitti Gould[/caption] If you're wondering about Unyoked's story in general, it was founded and is run by twins Cam and Chris Grant, with the company's off-the-grid cabins bring you the convenience and comfort of four solid walls — alongside the adventure, spontaneity and closeness-to-nature of camping. With the help of Fresh Prince, the brothers have designed and built Unyoked's houses, and they're all sustainable and solar-powered. Bookings for the two new spots are already open, so we suggest you hover over the website if you're keen to book one in. Once you've booked on in, all you need to do is jump in your car, disconnect and recharge. The two new Unyoked cabins are located across in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, and are available to book via unyoked.co. Looking for more off-the-grid escapes? Check out our favourites in NSW, Victoria and Queensland. Top images: trentandjessie,
Did you know there are more pets in Australia than there are people? And yet, when you think of road trips, you might not immediately think of dogs — that's not very fair. How would you feel if you always got left behind while all your bipedal mates grabbed their cars and drove away to have the time of their lives without you? It's time to change that, it's time to start bringing more dogs on road trips. So grab your car and your furry pal, and strap in for one of this country's most popular road trips: Sydney to Brisbane. And no stress if you don't have a car, because SIXT offers stress-free pet-friendly car rentals from a bunch of locations across Sydney and Brisbane — so you can worry less about logistics and focus on making memories. NEW MATES AT NEWCASTLE The journey begins in Newcastle, where the golden sands and rolling waves of Horseshoe Beach make the perfect first pit stop for some off-leash fun. The beach is a mecca for local dogs and dogs passing through alike — it's the only dog beach in central Newcastle, so your little pal can expect to make a lot of mates during this visit. You'll find it tucked beneath Nobby's Breakwall. Other off-leash areas worth exploring are Carrington Foreshore along Throsby Creek, and King Edward Park, which offers stunning views of Newcastle. Islington Dog Park is also worth a visit while you're near Throsby Creek, but it's not the only dog park in town — Acacia Avenue Reserve offers a massive 1.5-hectares of grassy paradise for dogs to run around in. It is also the first enclosed dog park in the Hunter to offer separate areas for big and small dogs, which is pretty neat if your little pal feels anxious around bigger ones. Once you and your pup are sufficiently adventured out, head to Cafe Inu — 'Inu' means dog in Japanese, so to say this cafe is dog-friendly would be an understatement. Fill up on craft coffee and Japanese fast food fare while your furry pal has their choice of puppychinos, puppy ice cream or puppy treats (or all three), which are all on the menu. Yep, there's a dedicated dog section — how cute. [caption id="attachment_913208" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: Samantha Zoratto[/caption] FIND PEACE AT CROWDY HEAD As you continue north towards Port Macquarie, make a quick (or not so quick) stop at Crowdy Head. This quiet coastal spot is anything but crowded. In fact, it's kind of a hidden gem — so keep this between us, capisce? While you're around, check out the cute lighthouse that overlooks Harrington Beach. Your dog will love it — dogs love lighthouses, didn't you know? You'll also get a kick out of it too, given it's been fully operational since 1878. If waves aren't your little mate's thing, Harrington Lagoon offers all the fun of water and sand, sans the surf — for this reason, it's a popular spot for families with kids and little furry pals alike. [caption id="attachment_831355" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Lindsay Moller Productions[/caption] DON'T WORRY AT PORT MACQUARIE Port Macquarie offers an array of dog-friendly activities. Explore the natural wonders of Kooloonbung Creek Nature Park or enjoy a splash at the dog-friendly Nobbys Beach. Other dog-friendly beaches include Rocky Beach and Oxley Beach — though keep in mind dogs need to be on leash at Oxley. Feeling hungry? Little Fish Cafe and Cassegrain Wines are both dog-friendly, with the latter welcoming dogs on the deck of the restaurant. Little Shack is also a great dog-friendly option for all times of day, from morning coffee to lunch by the water to a cheeky evening cocktail. Once you're ready to retire, check out NRMA Port Macquarie Breakwall Holiday Park, a dog-friendly holiday park with powered and unpowered sites. [caption id="attachment_913209" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: Samantha Zoratto[/caption] CATCH WORLD-CLASS WAVES AT CRESCENT HEAD Known for its consistent waves and stunning coastline, Crescent Head is a paradise for surfers and their furry mates as the beach is dog friendly. It even has a dog swimming area if your dog wants to brush up on its dog paddle while you perfect your… human paddle? [caption id="attachment_913218" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: Bailey Rytenskild via Unsplash[/caption] ENDLESS ADVENTURE AT EVANS HEAD Nestled between river and sea, Evans Head offers a mix of river adventures and oceanic exploration. Enjoy the calm waters of the Evans River with your dog or take a beach walk — or run if you really wanna stretch those legs. Or why not take advantage of the off-leash area and play some fetch, or have a beach 4WD adventure detour? FIND YOURSELVES IN BYRON BAY Ahh, Byron Bay — the ultimate destination for every dog that aspires to be spiritually awakened. Embark on the iconic lighthouse walk, where you and your furry mate can both ponder the meaning of life while marvelling at the vast expanse of stunning ocean, tourist selfies, and crystals as far as the eye can see. Belongil Beach, Tallow Beach, Seven Mile Beach, and Brunswick Heads Beach are all dog-friendly, so you'll have plenty to do in the surf and sun while you're in town. Byron also offers a plethora of dog parks to explore if you prefer more inland adventure. After all that frolicking, treat yourself at Stone & Wood, Pickled Pig, or Byron Bay breweries, all of which welcome dogs with open arms. GOLD COAST (GO ON, YOU KNOW YOU WANT TO) Forget surfers, the Goldy (we're sorry) truly is a pet's paradise. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the esplanade, visit the absolutely stunning and vast off-leash area at The Spit, or explore the dog-friendly parks the city has to offer — Tallebudgera Offleash Dog Beach, Cabana Offleash Dog Area, and Pizzey Offleash Dog Area are particularly nice. If you happen to be around on a Sunday, head to one of the many dog-friendly markets which pop up every weekend all around the Gold Coast, with Broadbeach, Coolangatta, Burleigh Heads, and Paradise Point markets being particularly pet-friendly. If you're after a caffeine hit, Elk Espresso, Daymaker Espresso, BSKT Cafe, and Daark Espresso are all dog lovers. Or, you could also head to Wild Flower Gin in Varsity Lakes for dog-friendly dining and relaxation, and if you're lucky you might even meet Ghost, the resident Great Dane cross Bull Arab. Once it's time to rest, check out the lovely NRMA Treasure Island Holiday Resort, which has a number of pet-friendly options including powered and unpowered camp and caravan sites, as well as dog-friendly cabins. BEAUTIFUL BRISSIE Congrats, you made it. Take the opportunity to stretch your legs at the Brisbane City Botanical Gardens, where you'll find the Kangaroo Point Cliffs Loop — a fun inner-city adventure for humans and canines alike. Or if you're up for more of a challenge, head to the Kokoda Track Loop for a ten-kilometre heart-pumper, located just 20 kilometres out of Brisbane. Once you're ready to relax, check out the various dog-friendly cafes, bars, and restaurants. Also, it's been a long journey, so you've earned a treat. Stay at The Ovolo in Fortitude Valley, which is more than happy to welcome your pooch in its pet-friendly rooms. Lastly, if you're wanting to do this road trip in reverse, there are some excellent dog-friendly bars, restaurants and cafes just waiting for your tired legs to perch up. And when it's time to pack up for the night, you'll be spoilt for choice as Sydney is arguably Australia's best spot for dog-friendly hotels. Looking for a pet-friendly rental to take you and your best furry mate on the road trip of a lifetime (or looking for a bigger car to fit your furry mate)? Check out SIXT, which welcomes customers to bring their family and furmily along for the ride, so no one gets left behind. Auto club members including NRMA, RACV, RACQ, RAA, RACT, RAC and AANT will receive 15% off SIXT's daily rates. Click here to book now
When a TV show is as warm as Ted Lasso — when it feels like getting a hug in TV form while you're watching it, in fact — wanting to step right into its frames is an understandable reaction. Fans of the hit soccer-themed sitcom will be able to go one better in October, however, if they're lucky enough to score one mighty nice Airbnb booking: The Crown & Anchor, aka the show's go-to pub in the heart of Richmond. Taking a page out of Ted's (Jason Sudeikis, Saturday Night Live) book, here's a few things for you to believe in: yourself, always; that you deserve a London getaway; and that you can nab one of the three reservations for this AFC Richmond-themed stay. Like all of Airbnb's pop culture-related listings — see also: Hobbiton, the Paris theatre that inspired The Phantom of the Opera, the Bluey house, the Moulin Rouge! windmill, the Scooby-Doo Mystery Machine, The Godfather mansion, the South Korean estate where BTS filmed In the Soop and the Sanderson sisters' Hocus Pocus cottage, to name just a few — this one is around for a spectacular time but not a long time. The Crown & Anchor will be open for three overnight visits: on Monday, October 23, Tuesday, October 24 and Thursday, October 25. Each booking will welcome in four Ted Lasso-loving Greyhounds supporters, though, so you can gather your obsessed mates and plan one helluva UK jaunt. As well as a night in the pub that's located right around the corner from Ted's apartment — and maybe a dash of the American coach's always-upbeat attitude just by stepping onto the show's home turf — the three groups that nab the reservations will also enjoy nods to the series in a number of ways. You'll sit down to pub fare from The Prince's Head (aka the IRL pub) over a discussion about all things Ted Lasso, wear AFC Richmond gear and cheer on local Richmond sports teams. You'll also play darts, give the pinball machine a go, sit at Ted's go-to table for a round of chess and sing karaoke. And, all that AFC Richmond merch hangs in the bedrooms as well. Biscuits are also part of the visit — naturally — over tea (sorry, Ted is wrong when he calls it "garbage water"). And, you'll be welcomed virtually by the show's Mae, who is played by Annette Badland (Midsomer Murders). All of the above will set you back just £11 (AU$20) plus taxes and fees, with the price reflecting the number of soccer players on the pitch. That said, while the once-in-a-lifetime accommodation comes ridiculously cheap, you do still need to fork out for your flights there and back, plus everything else to do with your London trip. If you're keener than Roy Kent (Brett Goldstein, Uncle) about scowling or Coach Beard (Brendan Hunt, Bless This Mess) about saying as little as possible, you'll need to try to score a reservation at 5am AEDT / 4am AEST / 7am NZDT on Wednesday, March 22. When that date rolls around, you will have seen the first episode of Ted Lasso season three, too — and likely be even more eager to get as close as you can to slipping into the show. And if you strike it lucky with the reservation and want to go all Beard After Hours while you're at The Crown & Anchor, that's up to you. For more information about The Crown & Anchor's listing on Airbnb, or to apply to book at 5am AEDT / 4am AEST / 7am NZDT on Wednesday, March 22, head to the Airbnb website. Images: Henry Woide. 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.
Being struck out with hunger pains is a dangerous dilemma that can see the most kind-hearted among us morph into snappy, desperate, irrational monsters. Brain speeds start to lag, frustration levels increase and a frenzied rush to find something — anything — to eat ensues. Finding yourself in this situation isn't ideal, but knowing where to find a frugal feast will help make your transition back to sweet satiation speedy (and cost effective). The Inner West is known for its eclectic array of eateries. But when you're ravenous and not wanting to fork out more than a twenty, it can take your deepest stores of resilience to not drop dollars on a fast-food cop out or sad servo snack. Proud of our appetites and neighbourhood know-how, we've put together a well-rounded spread that'll prove faultless when your hunger pangs spike and your money is tight.
Movie lovers of Australia, rejoice: New York-born arthouse cinema chain Angelika Film Centre is making the leap Down Under. A film-showing favourite in the US since 1989, starting in Soho and expanding to nine American locations since, the brand is launching its first-ever Aussie location on Thursday, August 24. In fact, when it opens its doors in Brisbane, it'll mark the chain's first picture palace outside of the USA. First announced earlier in 2023, and now set to welcome in filmgoers to its Woolloongabba site, Angelika Film Centre's Australian debut will land in Woolloongabba, in the inner-city suburb's South/City/SQ precinct. On offer: an eight-screen, 400-seat cinema complex that spans 2500 square metres. Three of those screens are SoHo Lounge cinemas, which means full-recliner seating, table service, and access to the SoHo Lounge Bar for wine, spirits and signature cocktails. When it starts ushering in patrons, Angelika Film Centre will screen a heap of current hits, with Asteroid City, BlackBerry and Gran Turismo: Based on a True Story all on its launch slate. Yes, so is Barbenheimer, aka Barbie and Oppenheimer. Plus, viewers can check out advance screenings of Past Lives before it officially releases the following Thursday. And, in excellent news for your wallet, the cinema is doing $10 tickets for all sessions — including SoHo Lounge — across its opening week. The above lineup will be joined by the likes of Theatre Camp, Biosphere, My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3, Ego: The Michael Gudinski Story, A Haunting in Venice and Scrapper in coming weeks, following the style of programming that's served the chain well in the US. In New York, Angelika Film Centre's clout in the independent, foreign and specialty film space has seen it help make titles like Lady Bird, Moonlight, I, Tonya, Pain & Glory and Free Solo box-office hits. Woolloongabba's outpost also has retrospective flicks such as Searching for Sugar Man, Roman Holiday, Fight Club, Fargo and The Third Man on its slate. And, it'll do gin-inspired sessions, with Casablanca, The Great Gatsby and Casino Royale all locked in. "We look forward to joining the Angelika family, and being part of the exceptional reputation that comes with the Angelika name. More so we are incredibly pleased that we get to open our doors in such an impressive and elegant complex as South/City/SQ. We are really looking forward to being part of the community" said Mark Douglas, Reading International's Australia and New Zealand Managing Director, with Angelika Film Centre hitting Australia via Reading Cinemas Group. The venue has been in the works since 2017, and also boasts a lolly station among its snack selection. And yes, it's a case of another week, another Australian-premiere movie experience landing in southeast Queensland, after Event Cinemas launched its 270-degree ScreenX setup on the Robina in mid-August. In Brisbane specifically, new cinemas have been popping up with frequency over the past decade, including New Farm Cinemas, The Elizabeth Picture Theatre, Red Hill Cinemas, Dendy Coorparoo, Reading Newmarket and Reading Jindalee. There's no word yet as to whether Angelika Film Centre has more Aussie sites in its future. Film lovers in other cities, cross your popcorn-grabbing fingers. [caption id="attachment_893537" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Markus Ravik[/caption] Angelika Film Centre will open at level one, 160 Logan Road, Woolloongabba, on Thursday, August 24 — head to the cinema's website for tickets and further details.
If you think Sydney Contemporary — a biennial international art fair held at Carriageworks — is only for art lovers with Chanel suits and investors with hedge funds, think again. Sure, 90 respected galleries from all over the world will be exhibiting (and selling) some of the best contemporary art money can buy, but you will also find an entire program of more affordable (and just as impressive) art on offer. It's made even more accessible by the presence of Art Money, an art loans program for works priced between $750 and $20,000. And if you want to leave commerce out of it entirely, look to addendum program Sydney Art Week, which is scattering art happenings throughout Carriageworks and its surrounding suburbs. Look out for art-infused bar crawls, monolithic art installations, a special edition of the Redfern Night Market, and the food pop-up Local Palette. But where you really want to be is Sydney Contemporary's official opening night on Thursday, September 10, from 5pm–9pm. The event includes performances by Sarsha Simone, Jake Meadows, The Alaska Orchestra, Hissy Fit, Matt Format and Bhenji Ra. Kick on after 8.30pm with a trail of performance art starting at Sydney Contemporary and continuing on through Redfern to the Bearded Tit. Tickets to Sydney Contemporary opening night are $50 from the event website, but thanks to Sydney Contemporary, we have five double passes to give away. To be in the running, subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter and then email win.sydney@concreteplayground.com.au with your name and address.
It's the kind of coastal getaway everyone dreams of: ocean views as far as the eye can see, decadent suites climbing 48 storeys into the sky, and five on-site restaurants manned by world-class chefs. Throw in an Asian street-style food market, a rooftop open-air cinema, more than a couple of bars and even karaoke, and it's shaping up to become Australia's new must-visit place to stay. Meet the Gold Coast's next drawcard, and Australia's first six-star beachfront hotel. The as-yet-unnamed site is slated to join the Queensland tourist spot's abundance of accommodation options, with Aquis Australia lodging a development application with the local council for the $440 million project. If approved, construction is slated to start in 2018. Taking over the space at 3464 to 3466 Main Beach Parade, Surfers Paradise, and designed by architects Woods Bagot, the new hotel will also include 580 rooms, an atrium lobby spread over three levels, and a $2.5 million custom art installation. And, if swimming somewhere other than the adjacent seaside takes your fancy, it'll boast a glass bottom pool that can be viewed from within the hotel. Plus, it's the only new, large-scale south-east Queensland hotel that isn't linked to an integrated resort or casino. And yes, we know what you're wondering — just what makes a six-star hotel so special? It's a fair question, particularly given that anything above five isn't officially recognised; however the key is the level of indulgence on offer. "Our goal was to create a hotel that would become a destination in itself, something that is instantly recognisable and synonymous with luxury," says Aquis Australia chairman Tony Fung. "We will be targeting travellers that want to experience the best restaurants, the best beaches, the best accommodation away from the hustle and bustle".
There are few more dedicated local servants to our Royal Meaty Highness than Bar Luca. Serving up what some may call the city's best burgers, as well as consistently trotting out a delicious/grotesque/highly Instagrammable array of burgs, the bar is home to some excellent beef and cheeseburgers, but above all, the notorious Blame Canada. This mountainous concoction sees a wagyu beef patty topped with maple-glazed bacon, cheddar, poutine and maple aioli. It's totally over-the-top but, more importantly, absolutely delicious. It's no surprise, then, that it was named the city's best burger by The Fatties Burger Appreciation Society. The burger-slingers are also pretty well known for their themed weekly specials, announced on Instagram every Monday with each more outrageous than the last with toppings including tater tots, maple duck bacon, pulled pork and a beef patty and plenty other concoctions. Beef burgers not your thing? We'd ask how you've made it this far down the page, but you're wise to stay — their chicken karaage number is pretty killer with wasabi aioli, pickled veggies, coriander and coral lettuce, and the vego option made with chickpea, sweet potato and spiced yoghurt goes down a treat. Bar Luca is also famed for their hectic, ever-changing milkshakes as well as extra greasy, extra tasty sides and burger 'hacks' like their bomb frites loaded with pulled-pork, liquid cheese, corn and chipotle aioli; beer-battered onion rings with BL burger sauce; fried cheese patties you can add to your burger (if you dare) and, of course, the modest shoestring fry.
When game day is on the horizon, you'll likely be in the market for one of the best sports bar in Sydney to catch a game — thankfully, there's no shortage of excellent spots that can accommodate all the sports fans in the harbour city. Sports bars are perfect for simulating the excitement and adrenaline you feel when you're at a game — with the bonus of not having to buy a ticket. So, whether you're looking to catch an international match with your mates or looking for a great spot to pre-game before heading to the stadium, we've got a list of the best sports bars in Sydney. Read on to see if your favourite spot made it to the list and, if not, maybe your new local will be found below. Recommended reads: The Best Pubs in Sydney The Best Bars in Sydney Sydney's Best Beer Gardens The Best Sydney Restaurants
If you're thinking of heading to Tassie for Dark Mofo this year, this could be the clincher. MONA is hosting its next big exhibition, Zero — a celebration of Germany's radical artists of the 1950s and 60s. The show gets its name from the term the artists used, collectively, to describe themselves. They didn't identify as belonging to a movement, style or group, but instead felt connected by a "vision of the things", as explained by Otto Piene, one of the founders. The show will feature artworks by original Zero artists, as well as those that have since absorbed their influence. These include Heinz Mack, Otto Piene, Günther Uecker and Adolf Luther from Germany; Lucio Fontana, Nanda Vigo, Grazia Varisco, Enrico Castellani and Gianni Colombo from Italy; with Marcel Duchamp, Yves Klein and François Morellet from France; Henk Peeters from The Netherlands; Christian Megert from Switzerland; Jesús Soto from Venezuela; and Yayoi Kusama from Japan. Given that these artworks were often ephemeral, many will be reconstructions. Expect sound effects, music, optical illusions, moving parts, shifting lights and reflective materials. There'll be a particular focus on vibration, which Mack described in 1958 as "resting restlessness…the expression of continuous movement, which we call 'vibration'…Its harmony stirs our souls, as the life and breath of the work." Taking care of curation is Mattijs Visser, founding director of the international Zero Foundation. "Zero is one of the most significant, yet largely forgotten, art movements since the Second World War...Zero needs to be discovered now, while several of their speakers are still with us," he says.
The inner western suburb of Glebe has a new(ish) player in the pub game thanks to the relaunch of the Australian Youth Hotel. After seven months of renovations, the 157-year-old pub has reopened with a new look and a new name: The Glebe Hotel. The Bay Street venue now has a new British pub menu, a lush courtyard and a luxe private space. And, thanks to it's new moniker, it'll no longer be confused for hostel housing weary globe-trotting teens. The Victorian terrace digs date back to 1862 and the massive refurb spans interior and exterior works. Sydney design firm Alexander & Co (The Imperial, Bon Pavilion, The Morrison) is behind the fit-out, which features several distinct spaces — starting with the public bar, which nods to the pub's history with chesterfield sofas, a fireplace and archival photos of the space. Upstairs, inside the venue's former brothel, is an ornate private function space with chandeliers, baroque sofas, vintage art and a snooker table. Move along and you'll find The Stables Bar & Grill, a bright and airy restaurant with exposed brick walls, cream timber tables and vintage tiling, plus a featured jacaranda mural by Sydney artist Indigo Jo. Just outside The Stables is a dog-friendly courtyard with bright yellow furnishings, red-and-white umbrellas and lush surrounds — including a 100-year-old fig tree. British chef Ben Allcock is in the kitchen preparing UK-style pub eats, such as steak and Guinness pie, chargrilled spatchcock and Sunday roasts. House specialties include the handmade gnocchi with roast butternut pumpkin and goat's curd, Berkshire pork chop served atop caramelised fennel and slow-cooked lamb shoulder ragu pappardelle. From the bar, expect a mix of local craft and mainstream brews on tap, along with a four-strong spritz menu — including the Bombay, with elderflower and cucumber, and the Strawberry, a mix of Poor Toms strawberry gin, wild strawberry liqueur and prosecco. Though the revamp has a big hospitality group written all over it, we're happy to report that The Glebe Hotel remains family owned by the Nissen brothers. Images: Guy Davies.
If, for you, warmer weather brings with it a craving for fruity gelato and a nostalgic longing for that tell-tale sound of 'Greensleeves' playing through your neighbourhood, say no more. The Mr. Mercedes Ice Cream Truck has got you — it might not be summer yet, but the wheels are already a-rollin' on this particular mobile candy dream machine. But, beware, this is no ordinary ice cream mobile. The truck will be handing out cones to mark the launch of Foxtel's new thriller series Mr. Mercedes. The show stars Brendan Gleeson as a retired police detective being taunted by a serial killer who masquerades as the local ice cream man. The story is based on the best-selling novel by Stephen King, which should be a dead giveaway of the creepiness you can expect from this pop-up. We don't want to completely scare you off, though, so here's the good news: the cones are free and you've even got a shot at winning $1000 in cash. And, there'll be no actual cold-blooded killers present — just cold soft serve and cold hard cash. The truck will be in Chatswood, opposite The Concourse on the corner of Spring and Victoria streets, between 9am–1pm and 3–8pm, and the Foxtel offices in Macquarie Park between 2–2.45pm. Head over for flavours including chocolate eclair, Whistle Pop and Berry Good Bar. Stream season one of Mr. Mercedes on Foxtel On Demand or screen on showcase Mondays at 9:30pm. Image: courtesy of Sony Pictures Television.
First things first: don't come to Claret Club if you're in the mood for a cocktail. "Sydney has so many fantastic cocktail venues — we're happy to leave those to the experts," says Bridget Raffal (pictured below), co-owner of the intimate Darlinghurst newcomer. "Wine is what we love, and that's where we choose to put our energy." The other half of that 'we' is Raffal's business and life partner, Harry Hunter. Both are excellently credentialled: Hunter is a former sommelier at Rockpool, Bentley Group and Dinner by Heston, while fellow somm Raffal is herself an alum of Sixpenny and co-owner of Marrickville wine bar Where's Nick. Together, they've opened a deliberately wine-first bar and restaurant in Darlinghurst, doing away with gatekeeping — and, yes, cocktails — while putting great bottles and approachability front and centre. [caption id="attachment_1065648" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Isabella Wild[/caption] Claret Club occupies a two-storey terrace on Stanley Street, with a walk-in wine bar downstairs and a European-inspired dining room upstairs. Wine is the undisputed star of the show, with a rotating selection of 30 drops available by the glass, and a by-the-bottle list set to expand to around 800 labels over time. Many of the bottles are pulled directly from Raffal and Hunter's personal cellar — expect everything from benchmark Bordeaux and Burgundy Grands Crus to standout Australian expressions from regions like the Yarra Valley, Coonawarra and Margaret River. While the name nods to historically exclusive members-only wine societies, this is very much a modern, inclusive take. "We're excited to open up our personal collections," says Raffal. "A lot of sommeliers keep secret 'reserve' lists for those in the know, where guests are deemed worthy of ordering certain bottles, but that's just not our style." At Claret Club, if a wine is in its drinking window, it'll be on the list for anyone to enjoy. Upstairs, Head Chef Andy Buchanan (The Dry Dock) oversees a wine-friendly menu inspired by classic European bistros and unfussy, flavour-first cooking. The à la carte selection includes pig's head croquettes with salsa verde, gnocco fritto with anchovy and sage, market fish with sauce vierge and roast duck with summer cherries and bitter leaves. There's also a $100 Carte Blanche option, where the kitchen matches five courses to guests' wine selection. Cocktails, meanwhile, are conspicuously absent. There's a tight selection of aperitifs, digestifs and select spirits, but nothing shaken or mixed, ensuring the focus remains on what's in the glass. For Raffal, that focus is both practical and philosophical: "Can you imagine missing out on a conversation about a truly beautiful bottle of wine because you were stuck behind the bar making cocktails? Nightmare material!" Images: Isabella Wild.
"I'm lost already," said my partner about a minute after we'd turned left (or was it right?) past yet another steel cluster of hutches otherwise known as the residences of Zetland. Some minutes later, we entered a mall across the road from an Audi dealership and were seated inside the Zetland edition of the Darlinghurst legend Lucio Pizzeria. Believe it or not, it's not (pure) snobbery that wonders how the cosy, brusque bustle of the Darlinghurst restaurant would translate here. The clientele are different. They are both younger and older than the Darlinghurst mob and also include the lunchtime business crowd (selling cars is hard work). It was good thinking then, on the part of owner/chef Lucio De Falco not to attempt a direct translation of his original Italian masterpiece but rather to reinterpret it. And that reinterpretation includes some fine additions that bring the food of the south of Italy to the fore. Before I go any further, I will confirm that after sampling the 'Lucio' ($20), a half calzone half margherita combination, the famous pizza is here in all its silky, blistered glory. But if I can tear you away from the pizza for even a moment, you must, I mean must try the lasagne ($22.50). Unlike its northern counterpart, this one has no bechamel, very little cheese and pulled beef instead of mince. It arrives with a prettily charred edge like a the lacy hem of a gypsy's skirt, a tomato sauce richer and more velvety than a cardinal's cloak, and silky sheets of handmade pasta that slip and slide with an unctuousness that is more satisfying than any bechamel. Also wonderfully southern is the thoughtful selection of mozzarella and accompanying cured meats that make up the 'mozzarella bar' part of the menu. An excellent waiter isn't hesitant about recommending a burrata ($14) accompanied by prosciutto ($12.50). Good on him. The neat little white cloud of burrata that hails from the Caserta region of Campania gives out at the pull of a fork, breaking and tearing into sublimely subtle, milky wisps of cheese. The southern beauty that closes is the Pastiera Napoletana ($12.50). A cake made of ricotta and cooked wheat grains, its flavour is made bright and warm with the addition of orange (not far off the spiced fruitiness of panettone) and a flaky shortbread base. As we leave, we notice two young fellow diners heading home across the street, clutching their leftovers in a box. I look a little harder into the greys of the steel hutches and see the odd pot plant, soft toys suctioned to windows and curtains filtering the glow of bulbs. After a meal that so firmly referenced its home, even if it was eaten opposite a car dealership, such tiny signs are proof enough that no matter the place, home is where there is heart.
The best spot in Australia for a picnic is hotly contested. Melbourne has some good ones. So do Sydney and Brisbane. Mount Buffalo, a picturesque mountain surrounded by green valleys roughly a four-hour drive from Melbourne, is now coming for the title — as long as you're not afraid of heights. The Bright Adventure Company is offering secluded picnics for thrill-seekers suspended off the cliff face of Mount Buffalo, on a platform 300 meters off the ground. For $449, you'll get a set up on the suspended ledge suitable for two people, a delicious picnic hamper and all the safety equipment and training required. Then you can relax with your partner or picnic buddy as you take in the views of the Mount Buffalo National Park. All you need to bring is warm clothes, sturdy shoes, a water bottle and a total lack of fear of heights. The experience goes for three hours with sunrise, lunch and dinner packages all available. If you have a group of four you can organise a set of two edges side-by-side so you can share the experience with your besties. Book a cliff picnic through the Bright Adventure Company. Before heading interstate, check the relevant state's COVID-19 guidelines.
There are very few Australian artists who could announce a new album in the same week they represent their country at Eurovision and have it feel entirely on-brand. Delta Goodrem is one of them. The Sydney-born singer-songwriter has officially confirmed Pure, her eighth studio album, will arrive on 6 November via Universal Music and her own Better Now Records/Electrola imprint — her first record since leaving Sony Music Australia after a 20-plus year relationship. "I am so excited to be stepping into this new chapter and joining forces with Universal Music," Goodrem said. "It marks the beginning of a powerful new home for ATLED Records — something I am incredibly proud of." The album has been years in the making. "Pure is an album I've been creating and living through over the past few years, and it truly feels like a return to myself and the heart of who I am as an artist," she said. "It holds some of my biggest singalongs, my most vulnerable moments, and brings in all the elements I love most in music — from intimate classical piano pieces to uplifting cinematic anthems." Speaking on the Rolling Stone Uncut podcast ahead of the announcement, Goodrem was characteristically clear-eyed about her independence. "I've always been somebody who's steered their own ship," she said. "I'm just wanting to make a record that I love and I want to take on the road and perform for people." The announcement arrives as Goodrem heads to Vienna to represent Australia at the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest, which kicks off this week — making this one of the more loaded diary entries in recent Australian pop history. This article first appeared in Rolling Stone Australia. Images: Supplied
Contemplating a renovation? Before you head to IKEA or the nearest op shop, stop right here. Why settle for standard seating, expected entranceways and simple staircases when you could be installing sandpits under work desks and doors that double as ping pong tables, slides and skate ramps? Interior design is one thing, but home hacking is quite another. Here are ten ways to turn an ordinary house into a carnival ground. Forms in Nature Light Sculpture Turn your room into a scene from Nightmare Before Christmas at the flick of a switch. Ernst Haeckel’s drawings are the inspiration behind this sculpture, created by Danish designers Thyra Hilden and Pio Diaz. A complex, unruly root system surrounds a bright light. "The shadows engulf the room and transforms the walls into unruly shadows of branches, bushes and gnarled trees," the designers explain. "Mirrorings are thrown out upon the walls and ceilings and provide weak Rorschach-like hints of faces, life and flow of consciousness. Dimming the lights transforms the installation and one senses a weak fire burning deep in the center of the forest." Image: Hilden and Diaz Surfing with the sand between my toes Why settle for working from home when you could, simultaneously, be working from the beach? This installation takes the freelancer's freedom to a whole new level. Created by artist Justin Kemp, who's based in Massachusetts (about thirty or so miles from the coast), 'Surfing with the sand between my toes' aims to blur the lines between work and play. "The sand is relaxing, but for me it's more a symbol of my permanent vacation," he explains. "It's the design of a lifestyle where 'work' becomes so satisfying that vacation and retirement become undesirable. It's a permanent state of chill." Image: Justin Kemp The Ping Pong Door Here's a way to create more space, get your daily exercise and maintain a healthy competitiveness with your roommates, especially if you're living in a teeny-tiny apartment: a door that turns into a ping pong table. It's the brainchild of Berlin-based designer Tobias Fraenzel. "Design can and should be fun," he says. "A product that generates positive emotions in people, that brings them together and gets used again and again, that is a good product!" Image: Marcel Koehler Bedroom-to-Pool Waterslide Where Professor Digory Kirke's wardrobe led to Narnia, the cupboard in this proposed country mansion reveals a water slide connected to a pool. Yet to be realised, the plans are the creation of Neil Collins Architects, who specialise in one-off homes. The slide would be part of a £2 million, three-bedroom, underground dwelling entered via a TARDIS-style elevator. Image: Neil Collins Bookshelf-Staircase-Slide Why waste time walking up and down the stairs when you could be sliding? This multifunctional staircase has something for everyone. Architecture firm Moon Hoon came up with it when commissioned to design the Panorama House, a spacious home for a six-piece Korean family. It's one amongst many staircase-slides that are injecting fun into the daily routine. Image: Namgoong Sun The Cloud Sofa If you've never recovered from Neverending Story, here, at long last, is the antidote. Spend a little part of every day floating on your own private cloud. A shiny silver oval on the floor is what makes the Cloud Sofa as magical as Falkor. Its mysterious magnetic force can keep both you and your softest-ever sofa hovering all night long. We have D.K. & Wei Design to thank. Image: D.K. Wei The Skateboard House Welcome to Bart Simpson's dream home. There's not a single surface — inside or outside — that can't be skated on. It's the vision of ex-world champion, pro-skater and CEO of Sole Technology Inc. Pierre Andre Senizergues. He approached architect Francois Perrin and designer-skateboarder Gil Lebon Delapoint to make it happen. La Gaite Lyrique Museum in Paris exhibited a wooden prototype in 2011. Real-life construction is underway in Malibu, California. Image: Pierre Andre Senizergues Pirate Ship Bedroom Do you have a belief, deep-down, that Walt Disney should've cast you, instead of Johnny Depp, in Pirates of the Caribbean? You could see a psychiatrist. But it might well be cheaper to install a pirate ship in your bedroom. Designed by Steve Kuhl, this suspended schooner is entered via rope bridge and exited via secret slide. For miscreants, there's a one-person jail cell. Image: Steve Kuhl Moss Bathroom Mat The ingenious thing about this is that, as long as you shower frequently-ish, you don't need to water it. A latex frame holds together 70 x 6cm pieces of foam, planted with three types of moss: ball, island and forest. Not only do they form a complex microcosmic forest, they also feel super-soft underfoot. It's the creation of Swiss designer Nguyen La Chanh. "The idea was to find a new way of having your plants inside," she explains. "Not only plants in pots quietly standing in the corner of a living room, but alive plants, evolving in the house." Image: Nguyen La Chanh DIY Grass Couch All you have to do is find a piece of furniture, pack the frame with soil, plant some seeds and let them grow. Of course, a regular mowing and trimming routine is part of the deal. Back in 2006, these popped up all over San Francisco as part of the Let's Green this City initiative.
Vacationing closer to home shouldn't mean settling for unimaginative getaways. Australia has its own collection of holiday paradises, stunning sights and supreme vacation vibes without the long-haul flight — including the lush hinterland region of Queensland's Sunshine Coast, sitting around 90 minutes north of Brisbane. Here, you'll find cosy couples' cabins, treehouse hideaways and stunning rural retreats, all perfectly located to the area's famed nature walks, hinterland villages and sandy beaches. We've done the hard work for you and pulled together a list of the most stunning Sunshine Coast hinterland stays you can book right now. Pick a winner, pack your bags and get ready to recharge those batteries with a blissed-out rainforest retreat. Recommended reads: The Best Dog-Friendly-Stays in Queensland The Best Places to Go Glamping in Queensland The Best Hotels in Brisbane The Best Island Stays in Queensland 629 Balmoral Ridge, Balmoral Ridge Stay on top of the world at this stunning ridgetop retreat, complete with epic views and a roomy deck from which to soak it all in. From $690 a night, sleeps four. Blue Summit Cottages Luxury Escape, Witta Boasting a fireplace, living room spa and sweeping views across the treetops, this self-contained cottage makes for an idyllic couples' escape. From $414 a night, sleeps two. Pencil Creek Cottage, Mapleton Break from reality at this charming couples' cottage, set among the leafy surrounds of Mapleton. Log fire, four-poster bed and peaceful deck, all included. From $297 a night, sleeps two. Cuddle Cottage, Montville This picture-perfect cottage for two comes kitted out with a romantic loft bedroom, plus a sunny terrace for afternoon cocktails with a view. From $195 a night, sleeps two. The Farm on Razorback Ridge, Montville A lofty retreat set on ten hectares of farmland and rainforest. Enjoy sunny days splashing in the pool and nights unwinding by the fire. From $1146 a night, sleeps ten. Bird Song Valley, Montville Experience your own slice of hinterland paradise at this breezy revamped Queenslander, complete with crisp styling, wraparound verandahs and a luxurious master tub. From $375 a night, sleeps six. Couples Spa Suite Retreat, Montville Unwind and reconnect in this luxury honeymoon suite. The balcony spa bath, bio-fuel fireplace and treetop views are getaway goals. From $350 a night, sleeps four. Treetops Seaview, Montville With its breathtaking outlook, this private treetop hideaway feels worlds away from reality. Lounge on the sun-drenched deck, or soak up epic views in the spa. From $512 a night, sleeps two. Cobhearthome, Maleny Tread lightly with a stay at this award-winning Mediterranean-style eco-cottage, decked out with colourful murals and boasting views across lush green rainforest. How much? From $230 a night, sleeps four. The Wilds Container Home, Dulong This converted shipping container home is an architectural delight, enveloped by nature. Enjoy a stylish hideaway, with luxe features and a private, leafy setting. From $330 a night, sleeps two. Treehaus, Valdora Tranquility meets style at this breezy nature retreat. Unwind with the help of luxurious linens, a blissful courtyard garden and a toasty fire pit. From $180 a night, sleeps four. The Bower Couples' Cabin, Wootha Surrounded by rainforest, this charming timber cabin makes for a romantic hideout year-round. Snuggle fireside, unwind in the claw-foot tub, or laze by the shared pool. From $165 a night, sleeps two. All images courtesy of Airbnb. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
Market City's newly minted 1909 Dining Precinct has a fiery side: an upscale Korean BBQ offering named Kogi. Joining a fast-growing contingent of eateries in the modern third-floor food court — one that already houses the noodle house from Mr Meng of If You Are The One and Japan's famed Yayoi — the 80-seat restaurant is plating up a contemporary Korean nosh punctuated by top quality local produce. Seoul-trained chef Hang Jun Chung has designed a menu of raw, fresh and marinated proteins and vegetables, headlined by 15 primo cuts of pork and wagyu beef. This one's a hands-on food experience, with diners invited to cook directly over charcoal — right there at the table. Expect to find yourself salivating over the likes of marinated beef spare ribs (galbi) while it cooks on the grill alongside authentic side dishes. The $75 pork platter for three is good value, as is the $10 lunch box. Bibimbap and fried chicken find their way onto the menu, too. With General Manager David Bae's father credited with opening Australia's first Korean barbecue restaurant in 1992, it's safe to say Kogi's got sturdy roots in the cuisine.
Manly Wharf has been taken over by Felons. And no, we're not talking about pirates, but the celebrated Queensland brewery that's opened Felons Seafood, a sprawling 300-seat seafood restaurant perched right at the water's edge, right next to its more casual offering that opened in October 2024. It's an impressive set-up — a breezy coastal aesthetic is anchored by white tones and raw, earthy textures, as well as plenty of sunlit space across the spacious indoor and outdoor dining areas. Inside, a 360-degree bar is framed by four stainless steel tanks pouring brewery-fresh beer, all backed by sweeping views across Manly Cove. [caption id="attachment_1011783" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Steven Woodburn[/caption] Helming the kitchen is Luke Bourke, a culinary wunderkind with a CV that belies his age. Most recently at Rockpool Bar & Grill — where he won Good Food Guide's 2025 Young Chef of the Year award — Bourke has also logged time at est., Noma Australia and The Ledbury in London. He's also a proud Palawa man and an alumnus of the National Indigenous Culinary Institute, and his elegant, produce-driven menu — which he's designed with fellow Rockpool alum and owner of Marrickville's 20 Chapel Corey Costello — reflects both his heritage and experience. The menu is very much an Australian expression of a classic seafood restaurant. Dishes range from the traditional — like prawn cocktail and a chilled seafood platter loaded with king prawns, Sydney rock oysters, tuna tartare, honey bug cocktail and lemongrass pipis — to the more creative — Bourke's signature tartar sauce features pickled warrigal greens and Felons IPA malt vinegar, while the abalone schnitzel sandwich with salted chilli mayonnaise already feels like a classic in the making. [caption id="attachment_1011781" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ethan Smart[/caption] The drinks program is equally considered. Felons Super Cold Crisp Lager — Australia's coldest lager, poured at -2 degrees and served in thick-walled glassware designed to maintain the ice-cold temperature — headlines the tap list, while the food-friendly wine list showcases Australian and European makers. There's also a bright, coastal-inspired cocktail list, with highlights like a salt and vinegar martini made with oyster shell gin and caperberry brine, a coffee- and macadamia-infused old fashioned, plus frozen classics and a dedicated spritz selection. It all adds up to a venue that's set to reinvigorate one of Sydney's most iconic waterfront destinations. These Felons might be from Brisbane, but they've nailed the laidback Northern Beaches vibe to a tee.
Mosman has welcomed Amalfi Coast-inspired gem St Siandra to The Spit's waterfront, bringing with it a touch of coastal luxury and permanent vacation vibes. Tasteful golden-hued interiors, terracotta tiling and white marble bar give way to stunning beachfront views and a tantalising menu that promises a journey through the Mediterranean — all without the airfare. Come in via the sun-soaked wharf entrance and take a seat on the woven loveseats — sourced from Italy — and take in the thoughtful interiors designed by Sally Taylor, who has previously curated venues including Felix and Queen Chow. Up the winding stairs is the dedicated event space Bluebird Room & Deck, awash in calming blue hues and natural light. It can host up to 70 guests and has its own private bar and stunning views of the waters below. Continuing the Euro-summer vibes, the menu features fresh seafood, vibrant seasonal produce and classic Mediterranean flavours with a sprinkling of Middle Eastern spices. The spot is slinging brunch most days with dishes like stracciatella toast with caramelised onion, pistachio and chilli oil, and fried chicken and waffles with sage dukkah and date caramel syrup. Heading over for the lunchtime or dinner menu, instead? Tuna crudo and the Spring Bay mussels are crowd favourites as are the classic tray of Sydney rock oysters with champagne mignonette. For a meat-focused main, opt for the Angus MB4 short rib skewer or the lamb shoulder accompanied by broccoli gremolata, pomegranate and za'atar. Sail your way through cocktails, each with nautical themes or named after local luxury yachts or a bottle of bubbly. Dessert runs to the likes of spiced persimmon pavlova, Sicilian citrus tart with toasted meringue and strawberry; and the classic ricotta fritters with cinnamon sugar and banana caramel. St Siandra was conceived by the hospitality duo, Mitchell Davis and Gavin Gray, the team behind Great Eats. Collaborating with the visionary Head Chef Sam McCallum, formerly of Nomad, and Adam George, the ensemble is a seasoned all-star cast ready to bring maritime allure to Mosman. Images: Steve Woodburn
On the outskirts of Tokyo sits one of the city's most coveted spaces: the Studio Ghibli museum. It's also one of Japan's hottest tickets, with locals and tourists alike needing to book well in advance to get in. You'd expect that of a place that features a life-size catbus, a towering robot on its roof and Totoro sitting behind the counter of its box office. You'd expect it of any venue celebrating this beloved animation house, to be honest — even though it now has company three hours out of town thanks to Studio Ghibli's very own theme park. For almost four decades now, Studio Ghibli's movies have possessed their own kind of magic — the type that made viewers want to get spirited away by their gorgeously animated frames long before the company made a film of the same name. Indeed, in the 38 years since Studio Ghibli was formed by directors Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata with producer Toshio Suzuki, it has introduced the world to all manner of delightful and moving on-screen experiences. Cute balls of soot, determined teenage witches and pining high-schoolers sit side-by-side in the company's filmography with war-torn tales, sitcom-style family antics and more than one ecologically minded fable. And, in the process, Studio Ghibli has achieved a significant feat: it has never made a bad movie. Including TV films and co-productions, it has 25 to its name to date in total — with the latest and Miyazaki first film in a decade, The Boy and the Heron, in cinemas Down Under now. While every single Ghibli flick is worth feasting your eyes on, we've ranked them all. Now you know where to start during your next binge-viewing session. 25. TALES FROM EARTHSEA Combine Studio Ghibli with any number of dragon-filled fantasy tales, and the result might look like Tales from Earthsea. It's actually adapted from one such series of books, Ursula K Le Guin's The Earthsea Cycle. The feature directorial debut of Hayao Miyazaki's son, Gorō Miyazaki, this is the most standard of the company's features — although its characters, including a troubled prince and a young girl saved from slavers, always strike a chord. Tales from Earthsea streams via Netflix. 24. EARWIG AND THE WITCH The studio's first movie made solely using computer-generated 3D animation, Earwig and the Witch immediately stands out thanks to its plastic-looking visuals. And, despite the fact that it's about a determined young girl, features a witch, and even includes a talking cat and other helpful tiny critters, it never completely feels like a classic Ghibli film either. That said, a by-the-numbers Ghibli flock is still better than many others, especially of the family-friendly variety. Earwig and the Witch streams via Netflix. Read our full review. 23. ONLY YESTERDAY Based on the 1982 manga of the same name, Only Yesterday explores the incredibly relatable inner turmoil of 27-year-old Tokyo worker Taeko when she heads out to the countryside for a working vacation. Charting her efforts to reconcile her childhood dreams with the life she's living now, it's a mature and thoughtful film from Isao Takahata — and a wistful and sensitive one, too. Only Yesterday streams via Netflix. 22. FROM UP ON POPPY HILL Gorō Miyazaki's second feature heads to Yokohama, in 1963, when high-schooler Umi Matsuzaki lives in a boarding house. Adapted from an 1980 Japanese comic, this sweet and gentle effort charts her quest to stop a beloved school building from being demolished — and benefits from a tender screenplay co-written by none other than Hayao Miyazaki. From Up on Poppy Hill streams via Netflix. 21. PORCO ROSSO Inspired by his family's business from when he was a child — aircraft parts manufacturer Miyazaki Airplane — many of Hayao Miyazaki's movies take to the skies. Porco Rosso, with its high-flying eponymous man-pig pilot, is one of them. This wartime adventure follows the First World War veteran's clash with a group of sky pirates and the American hotshot they've hired to help, as told with wry humour and, obviously, spectacular flying sequences. Porco Rosso streams via Netflix. 20. MY NEIGHBOURS THE YAMADAS The studio's most visually distinctive effort, Isao Takahata's My Neighbours the Yamadas is based on the manga series Nono-chan, and favours the look of a hand-drawn, watercolour-painted comic strip. That stylistic choice suits the content perfectly, immersing audiences into the quirky series of vignettes about the Yamada family, and offering a visible reminder that nothing is ever as simple as it appears. My Neighbours the Yamadas streams via Netflix. 19. THE CAT RETURNS The only Studio Ghibli movie to continue on from one of its earlier films, The Cat Returns is a spinoff from Whisper of the Heart. As the name makes plain, felines take centre stage. That proves entertaining and even often enjoyably silly for audiences; however, for the film's protagonist Haru Yoshioka, it forces her into a battle with the Cat Kingdom after she saves a four-legged fur ball from being hit by a car — and is told she'll have to marry him. The Cat Returns streams via Netflix. 18. ARRIETTY For a movie filled with tiny people who live in the walls of human houses, Arrietty certainly does brandish a big heart. Based on Mary Norton's 1952 novel The Borrowers, this story was always going to fall into Studio Ghibli's wheelhouse, especially given its focus on a new friendship between unlikely pals. As soulfully relayed by director Hiromasa Yonebayashi, the film charts the connection that between its diminutive titular character and a human boy. Arrietty streams via Netflix. 17. WHEN MARNIE WAS THERE When Marnie Was There champions the importance of friendship, acceptance, understanding and looking to the past to embrace the future, all recurring themes in Studio Ghibli's work. That's hardly surprising in a melancholy and contemplative movie about a lonely foster child and her new friend, of course, but they also take on a different tone here. Made in 2014, Hiromasa Yonebayashi's film adapts Joan G Robinson's novel of the same name into a bewitching gem. When Marnie Was There streams via Netflix. Read our full review. 16. OCEAN WAVES Made for TV, this 1993 Studio Ghibli movie spends the bulk of its time in the city of Kochi, where friends Taku Morisaki and Yutaka Matsuno both become smitten with new high-school classmate Rikako Muto. When the animation studio isn't marching off to magical worlds, it's pondering the emotional turmoil bubbling within everyday characters, with this quiet and moving drama falling into the latter category. Ocean Waves streams via Netflix. 15. THE WIND RISES When it first hit cinemas, The Wind Rises was presented as Hayao Miyazaki's final film — and, if that had stayed the case, it would've been a fitting farewell. Thanks to The Boy and the Heron, the acclaimed animator hasn't said goodbye to viewers yet; however, he gets especially reflective in this rich and bittersweet fictionalised biography of aircraft designer Jiro Horikoshi. Like all of Miyazaki's output, of course, there's much more to this understated gem than the obvious. The Wind Rises streams via Netflix. Read our full review. 14. PONYO As well as boasting quite the catchy theme tune, Ponyo takes inspiration from Hans Christian Andersen's The Little Mermaid. Here, though, the story focuses on an escaped goldfish — and explores the cute critter's new bond with a five-year-old boy. Following in the footsteps of fellow Hayao Miyazaki movie My Neighbour Totoro, the film is perfect for audiences of all ages. It's also bright, bouncy, exuberant and poetic as well. Ponyo streams via Netflix. 13. THE TALE OF THE PRINCESS KAGUYA In The Tale of the Princess Kaguya, the eponymous girl blossoms within a bamboo shoot. She's not the only thing that blooms in this hand-drawn beauty, which marked Isao Takahata's first film as a director in 15 years — and, sadly, his last. Spinning an elegant and entrancing story, this Ghibli wonder evolves from a seemingly standard setup into something subversive and meaningful. The Tale of the Princess Kaguya streams via Netflix. 12. KIKI'S DELIVERY SERVICE Feisty kids are as common in Studio Ghibli movies as jaw-dropping visuals, and 13-year-old Kiki well and truly fits the mould. In this Hayao Miyazaki-helmed coming-of-age fantasy, the fledgling witch moves away from home to prove her independence — as all teen witches must at that age. As well as relaying a smart tale about finding one's place in the world, Kiki's Delivery Service boasts another big highlight: a very amusing talking cat. Kiki's Delivery Service streams via Netflix. 11. WHISPER OF THE HEART Playful, heartfelt and sometimes melancholy, Whisper of the Heart is one of Studio Ghibli's under-appreciated gems — and not just because it features two very memorable cats. It was the company's first film to be directed by someone other than Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata. Miyazaki wrote the screenplay, though, with Yoshifumi Kondō helming this story about a Tokyo high-schooler obsessed with the boy who borrowed all the same library books before her. Whisper of the Heart streams via Netflix. 10. LAPUTA, CASTLE IN THE SKY Studio Ghibli's first offical feature, Laputa, Castle in the Sky heads back to the late 19th century, as a young girl, Sheeta, endeavours to fend off the cunning and determined government agents on her tail. They're chasing not only a rare magic crystal, but a fabled city floating in the clouds — and as Hayao Miyazaki depicts with steampunk flair, endearing characters and a spirited statement, it all makes for an entrancing adventure. Laputa, Castle in the Sky streams via Netflix. 9. POM POKO Mischievous racoon-like critters called tanuki sit at the heart of this Isao Takahata-directed film — creatures with a basis in folklore, boasting the ability to transform into almost anything and possessing very flexible scrotums (yes, really). Alas, their habitat outside of Tokyo is under threat from developers, with this touching delight combining magical wonder with a message. It's an impassioned, affectionate fable, matching its narrative and overtly offbeat sense of humour with memorable imagery. Pom Poko is available streams via Netflix. 8. THE RED TURTLE In its first-ever collaboration, Studio Ghibli teamed up with Dutch-British illustrator Michael Dudok de Wit — and earned a Cannes Un Certain Regard special jury prize-winning for their efforts. A film of narrative simplicity but both visual and thematic intricacy, this textured and meditative feature explores the complicated splendour that springs from humanity's relationship with the world around us after a man is washed up on a deserted island. The Red Turtle streams via Beamafilm. Read our full review. 7. HOWL'S MOVING CASTLE If ever a movie encapsulated everything that's made Studio Ghibli such a beloved filmmaking force, it's Howl's Moving Castle. Energetic, creative and sensitive, this Hayao Miyazaki-helmed fantasy not only unfurls a mesmerising story — about a young milliner who is cursed by a witch, transforms into an elderly woman and becomes a wizard's housekeeper — but does so with beautiful imagery, endearing characters, and strong anti-war and pro-feminist sentiments. Howl's Moving Castle streams via Netflix. 6. THE BOY AND THE HERON Trust Hayao Miyazaki to return from a ten-year absence, and his latest purported retirement, to deliver one of the best, most breathtaking and most gorgeous movies that he ever has. This World War II-set "semi-autobiographical fantasy" follows 11-year-old Mahito after his mother is killed in an air raid, his father moves him to the countryside and the titular bird beckons him into an otherworldly realm — and every frame feels like a culmination of Miyazaki's career. The Boy and the Heron opened in Australian and New Zealand cinemas on Thursday, December 7. Read our full review. 5. MY NEIGHBOUR TOTORO It's the film that immediately found a place in viewers' hearts and never left. Thanks to its heartwarming mood and emotions, astute observations, adorable characters and eager sense of adventure, Hayao Miyazaki's My Neighbour Totoro has become Studio Ghibli's best-known movie for many great reasons — all as it chronicles two sisters' exploits when they not only move into a new house, but make a new pal in the forest (and discover the catbus). My Neighbour Totoro streams via Netflix. 4. PRINCESS MONONOKE Hayao Miyazaki has never shied away from making an ecological statement; however, Princess Mononoke might just send his most forceful message about humanity's impact upon the earth. As set in Japan's Muromachi period (from the 14th–16th centuries), this involving fantasy charts the paths of a young prince with a curse and a young woman raised by wolves, as well as the conflict between a modernising town and the forest it's destroying. Princess Mononoke streams via Netflix. 3. NAUSICAÄ OF THE VALLEY OF THE WIND Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind technically pre-dates Studio Ghibli, but Hayao Miyazaki's post-apocalyptic fantasy has been claimed as the company's own. Charting the battles of a young princess as she fights an invading kingdom and tries to reconcile the damage ravaged upon the planet, the 1984 film became an instant classic, with its environmentally conscious story, stunning animation and stellar score all proving beguiling. Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind streams via Netflix. 2. SPIRITED AWAY In Spirited Away, ten-year-old Chihiro stumbles across a magical and mysterious world, then wants nothing more than to escape back home. Viewers of Hayao Miyazaki's Oscar-winning masterpiece, however, are happy spending as much time as possible in the film's wondrous realm — which, as set around a luxurious and busy bathhouse that caters to spirits, constantly surprises, delights, and revels in inventive storytelling and animation. Spirited Away streams via Netflix. 1. GRAVE OF THE FIREFLIES The most heartbreaking animated film ever made, Isao Takahata's touching war drama Grave of the Fireflies is the rarest of inclusions on Studio Ghibli's cinematic resume. Plunging into dark and sombre territory, it tells the tale of two siblings desperately struggling to survive in the last days of the Second World War. From its fleshed-out characters tussling with life and death to its striking visuals, the movie's handling of its moving and sorrowful story couldn't be more astonishing. Grave of the Fireflies is available on DVD. Images: Sugoi Co / Madman.
Disclaimer: I've never been a hospitality operator. But I've spoken to hundreds in my time as a food journalist, and one thing is clear — life on the tools is rarely straightforward. It's a rocky industry at the best of times, and survival depends on staying adaptable. We've seen it through COVID, recessions and supply chain breakdowns. Now, in the wake of global conflict and rising fuel costs, operators are being pushed to recalibrate again. There's no rulebook when there's no precedent. But across the industry, people are finding ways to stay afloat — sometimes by design, sometimes by accident. Take the shift to electric kitchens, long considered the bane of many chefs' existence. Cooking without flame lacks the romance, and often the responsiveness, of gas, but it's fast becoming the default. The 203 in Brisbane, Elchi and Rumi in Melbourne, and Rockpool Bar & Grill in Sydney have made the switch, while Trinity St Kilda is planning an all-electric setup as part of its $2 million overhaul. Originally driven by environmental targets and practicality — electric stoves are easier to clean and maintain — the move is now proving financially beneficial as gas prices rise. Climate pressure is also reshaping the industry in other ways — particularly in wine, where one bad season can wipe out a year's income. As temperatures climb higher in parts of Australia, producers are trialling clay-based "sunscreen" to protect grapes and preserve flavour. And in regions hit with unseasonal cold, vineyards are being lit with anti-frost candles overnight — an old-world fix for a new-world problem. France was the first to popularise this approach but as climates shift worldwide, Australia may follow. Back in the kitchen, constantly rotating menus and one-off specials allow venues to respond to fluctuating supply and minimise waste. While most restaurants change their menus seasonally, Little Black Pig & Sons in Heidelberg updates theirs fortnightly based on availability, while Henry Sugar in Carlton North runs low-waste Mondays designed to clear excess stock. What's happening behind the scenes is just as telling. Staffing shortages and rising overheads are forcing operators to rethink the basics, embracing shorter menus, tighter service and more sustainable rostering. Take the rise of highly specialised venues like Melbourne's Yang Thai or Gamja Hotteok, which focus on a single core product and reduce the need for excess staff or ingredients. [caption id="attachment_1051091" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Manteiga Darlinghurst[/caption] These shifts aren't just about sustainability; they're about staying viable. Diners are more selective, more price-conscious, and more easily swayed by novelty. Venues need a reason to stay in rotation, which has driven a wave of pop-ups, chef takeovers and limited-run offers. Even Attica is leaning into it, with a midweek Chef's Table that offers a lower-commitment entry point while filling quieter nights. For other operators, viability can come down to rethinking the space itself. At Gemini, that means opening during the day for coworking, positioning the venue as a third space rather than a single-use destination. Maintaining longevity in hospitality has never been easy, even in a city full of institutions. The venues that last aren't the ones clinging to tradition — they're the ones that build around change and treat it as part of the model. Like what you see? Subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter to get stories just like these straight to your inbox.
When a bookstore doubles as a cafe, it really is the best of both worlds. Reading material to peruse with your coffee? A spot of shopping pre- or post-brekkie, brunch or lunch? The kind of atmosphere that can only come from stacks on stacks on stacks of books? You'll find all of the above at Ampersand Cafe & Bookstore. A Paddington mainstay for over a decade, the Oxford Street is as quaint as the world outside is busy — although, with more than 30,000 books sprawling across three levels, plus a cute little laneway area for flicking through pages in the sun, it's usually a hive of activity here. The cafe likes to think of itself as a library with food, and it has the packed shelves, cosy reading nooks, welcoming armchairs and sizeable menu to back up that claim. And yes, you really can just grab a novel, enjoy its contents while you sip your coffee and then put it back again. Ampersand's culinary spread has just had a revamp, with chef Tom Walton doing the honours. On offer: coconut, berry and chai-spiced sticky rice with caramelised banana; Turkish-inspired labne eggs with pepper, tomato and a heap of spice; and French toast with poached pear, whipped ricotta, rhubarb compote and almond crumble — and that's just breakfast. Lunch brings slow-cooked beef cheek pappardelle, as well as other pastas and salads. Drinks-wise, Little Marionette takes care of the coffee, Lindt's hot chocolates will warm up your insides, and beer, wine and cider are also available.
Taco Bell did it. Mark Wahlberg's Wahlburgers and fellow burger joint Five Guys, too. And now Wendy's is officially following suit. Add the square burg-slinging fast-food franchise to the list of American joints making the jump Down Under, with The Wendy's Company announcing that it has locked in a master franchise agreement with Flynn Restaurant Group to launch a heap of Aussie outposts. And we do mean a heap: 200 stores, in fact, as slated to open by 2034. The news comes after Wendy's started making moves to hit our shores in 2022, enlisting Australian franchise consulting firm DC Strategy to work with the burger brand to come up with an Aussie strategy. And, it follows the success of a 2021 Wendy's pop-up in Sydney, where it handed out free burgs and desserts. Indeed, Wendy's announcement mentions the one-day pop-up's success among the reasons for giving Australia a couple of hundred places to nab its burgers within the next 11 years. It's expected that the stores will largely start launching from 2025, with other timing yet to be announced. Exactly where Wendy's will set up shop also hasn't been revealed. "Australia is a strategic market for long-term growth for Wendy's. Flynn Restaurant Group has incredible experience in the restaurant space, and we are thrilled to expand our relationship with them," said Abigail Pringle, President, International and Chief Development Officer of The Wendy's Company, announcing the Aussie move. "They have a strong leadership team, great culture, vast industry knowledge, success with our brand in the US, and we are confident that Flynn Restaurant Group is the right partner to unlock growth for Wendy's in Australia." Flynn Restaurant Group and Wendy's have history, with the former already running nearly 200 of the latter's outposts across five US states. Also on Flynn Restaurant Group's plate in America: operating Applebee's, Taco Bell, Panera, Arby's and Pizza Hut restaurants. When Wendy's hits Australia, it won't be the only food joint with that name. Across 120 venues in Australia and New Zealand, that moniker also graces a South Australian-born ice cream chain which is now known as Wendy's Milk Bar. With more than 7000 stores worldwide, the American Wendy's is one of the globe's biggest and most recognisable burger chains. While most of its outposts are scattered across the US, the chain also has over 1000 international locations in countries like New Zealand, Canada and the UK. The first Wendy's was opened by Dave Thomas in Columbus, Ohio in 1969. It quickly grew due to the popularity of its burgers and iconic Frostys, growing to over 1000 restaurants in its first nine years of operations. Those square burgers, the ice cream-meets-thickshake combos, perhaps the chain's French toast sticks and pretzel cheeseburgers, too: start looking forward to eating them in Australia. [caption id="attachment_811853" align="alignnone" width="1920"] PRNewsfoto/The Wendy's Company[/caption] [caption id="attachment_869874" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sharon Hahn Darlin[/caption] Flynn Restaurant Group is set to develop 200 Wendy's restaurants across Australia by 2034. Check out Wendy's announcement for further details.
These days, many of us remember to grab our reusable coffee cup or water bottle before heading to our local cafe or gym. While there's lots more work to do, reducing our dependence on single-use items can only be a good thing. However, a new and improved collaboration between frozen yoghurt legends Yo-Chi and Melbourne-born reusable drinkware pioneer KeepCup is working to make reusables an increasingly ordinary part of our daily lives. Enter the Yo-Chi x KeepCup Icy Go Bowl. Strictly limited in numbers, this newfangled reusable creation is designed to keep cold things cold and hot things hot. Made from 90% recycled double-walled stainless steel for top-notch temperature performance, it also comes with a 50% recycled Tritan spill-proof vacuum seal lid that keeps your meal locked in. Plus, at 550 millilitres, you'll have plenty of space to pack in more froyo. What's more, the design is stackable, so keeping bowls neat in your kitchen cupboard or tucked away in your fridge is easy. BPA/BPS-free and non-toxic, you can also choose from four Yo-Chi-inspired colourways: Strawberry Mochi, Choccy, Acai and Black Sesame. For those familiar with KeepCup's Go Bowl Luxe, this special edition — exclusively available at Yo-Chi stores nationwide — is made just a little bit more special with Yo-Chi branding. Of course, having a reusable bowl that seamlessly slots into everyday life is a big part of the waste-free equation. But this collab goes a step further by incentivising you to make the most of it. Take it along to any Yo-Chi store around Australia to score ten percent off your order every time you use it. What's more, every purchase comes with a $10 Yo-Chi voucher, so you have the perfect excuse to take your new bowl for a test run with a sweet, frozen treat. "We know reusing a bowl isn't the most convenient thing in the world," says Yo-Chi Brand Director Oliver Allis. "But we're trying to make it as enticing as possible with ten percent discount every time you reuse, beautiful yet functional bowls, and even giving people a free $10 Yo-Chi voucher that they need to use with the Go Bowl, to help create that habit change." When you're done scooping up that last spoonful of froyo, you're also welcome to hand your bowl to a staff member to give a quick rinse, ensuring it's good as new for whatever on-the-go meal comes next. And you're helping Yo-Chi achieve its sustainability goals, now on a mission to elevate its reuse rate from one to three percent. "These are genuine attempts to make reusing at Yo-Chi as normal as reusing at a coffee shop," says Allis. The Yo-Chi x KeepCup Go Bowl Luxe is available for a limited time for $35 at Yo-Chi stores nationwide and via the online store. Head to the website for more information. Like what you see? Subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter to get stories just like these straight to your inbox. Images: Supplied.
From the street, A Man and His Monkey looks like any other suburban cafe. But venture inside and you'll find a cosy cafe that's serving up hearty brekkies, salads and sandwiches with an Israeli flair. We're talking a haloumi and eggplant-stuffed pita pocket, malabi — a popular Middle Eastern-style rose-scented milk pudding topped with pistachios, coconut and strawberries — and a mean shakshuka. The latter will rival those from any of the popular shakshuka joints across Sydney — and you can opt to have it with sujuk, slow-cooked lamb, hummus or labne. Come lunchtime, order the hummus plate, which comes with pita and your choice of sides, including poached eggs or eggplant salad. There are also a range of toasties and sandwiches available, including the reuben with double-stacked house-made pastrami. Wash it down with a coffee or one of the turmeric, purple taro or chai lattes. Images: Cassandra Hannagan
Starting out as a delicatessen, Paddington Alimentari quickly grew into a busy Italian cafe for locals and lucky out-of-towners to visit. With its dark grey shop front, you might not notice this popular spot on William Street, but it's definitely worth sniffing out. The glass counter is filled with freshly baked fare — from fluffy quiches to croissants and stuffed baguettes. If you have time to sit down, order a bowl of pasta or a fresh salad and dine outside. And just like any good Italian delicatessen, it also has display case filled to the brim with cheese, ham and a range of olives — so you can make your very own charcuterie board at home.
Whether you tuned in the 90s and early 00s as it aired — staying up late in Australia to catch it on free-to-air TV on a weeknight, or taping it to view afterwards — or binged it via DVDs or streaming later, Buffy the Vampire Slayer has never been a television series that audiences watch casually. Jane Schoenbrun and Brigette Lundy-Paine, writer/director of A24 hit I Saw the TV Glow and one of its stars, have both OG fandom and more-recent obsessions covered. Schoenbrun calls the show their "first love", they explain to Concrete Playground. Lundy-Paine only started viewing it for I Saw the TV Glow but misses it now when they're not watching it, they also tell us. Schoenbrun, Lundy-Paine and audiences everywhere have Buffy to thank for a movie that's cast its own glow since its Sundance Film Festival premiere — and across stops at the Berlin International Film Festival, SXSW in Austin, Sydney Film Festival and Melbourne International Film Festival since, too, before reaching Australian theatres in general release. Earning its praise as an instant trans cinema cult classic, the pair's collaboration doesn't just take inspiration from Schoenbrun's affection for a pop-culture phenomenon about a high schooler that the undead feared. One of the standout films of 2024, and from A24's adored roster of flicks overall, it's the source of all-consuming passions itself, while also contemplating that very topic. With their 2021 debut feature We're All Going to the World's Fair, Schoenbrun has already pondered how screen fixations can help mediate identities. Two movies in, they have a niche — and a pivotal one. Their films examine the space where fandom and pop-culture obsessions overlap with alienation, dissociation and dysphoria. They explore how they filtering who you are through an internet or TV fixation can assist in processing those emotions and states, and aid in unlocking something that you mightn't have had the tools to recognise otherwise. Two features in, Schoenbrun has earned their own adjective as well: their films are positively Schoenbrunian. It isn't just the common themes that mark We're All Going to the World's Fair and I Saw the TV Glow as works from the same inimitable voice, but also a shared dreamlike aesthetic, plus a knack for poetic and revealing dialogue. Watching their movies feels like plunging in, being enveloped and experiencing everything that their characters do; it's no wonder that the filmmaker's fare, especially their sophomore picture, is so easy to obsess over. Where We're All Going to the World's Fair follows a teenage girl making connections through an online horror challenge, with the feature digging into dysphoria along the way, I Saw the TV Glow does indeed have a television show at the centre of its plot. In the 90s, teens Owen (Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves' Justice Smith, plus Let the Right One In's Ian Foreman as the younger version) and Maddy (Lundy-Paine, Atypical) strike up a friendship over the Buffy-meets-Goosebumps style supernatural series The Pink Opaque. The show is their escape from their adolescent reality, and a coping mechanism — one that Owen, especially, didn't know that he needed. It's also where these new friends feel like they finally see their real selves. Then Maddy disappears suddenly, The Pink Opaque is cancelled just as abruptly, and the 00s come calling. I Saw the TV Glow jumps further forward, too, as it uncovers the different ways that Maddy and Owen embrace — or don't — their authentic identities. The parallels with the egg-crack moment, the term used when someone realises that they're trans, are as bright and clear as the light emitted from every screen that bathes the movie's main duo in The Pink Opaque. Schoenbrun is always about showing rather than telling, though, and about viewers stepping into Maddy and Owen's emotional state with them rather than simply being informed about it. Again basking in 90s nostalgia on the big screen after 2020's Bill & Ted Face the Music — where they played Billie Logan, daughter to Keanu Reeves' (John Wick: Chapter 4) Ted — Lundy-Paine was drawn to the raw feeling evident in Schoenbrun's script, as well as their shared perspectives and experiences. We spoke with both Lundy-Paine and Schoenbrun about TV devotions, inspirations, Schoenbrun thematic and stylistic go-tos, telling personal tales, 90s nostalgia and more. On Falling in Love with Buffy the Vampire Slayer — Then and Now Jane: "I was just obsessed. I had other TV obsessions, but Buffy was the biggest one that I'll ever have. When I think back a bit on it, and I mean this quite literally, I think of Buffy as my first love. The amount that I put into that show emotionally, the amount of headspace it took up, each week waiting for the next episode to air, reading about it online — it was just a total obsession. And in many ways, I think — and the film is exploring this as well — it was a coping mechanism, a way for me to express myself in fiction, in a place that felt safe and outside of the quote-unquote real world. How did I fall in love with Buffy? I was flipping channels on the TV in my parents' bedroom, where I would be relegated when they were watching something on the main TV. And I remember coming across a rerun of the episode from the first season called 'The Pack'. It was the summer after the first season aired, and I was like 'I'm watching this show again next week' — and it just developed from there. I'd say by the second season, it was my favourite TV show. And by the third season, I was spending a lot of time with Buffy. I had tapes. I made my own tapes. I had the episode guides. I posted online about it. It really became almost this like space for me to hide and I just loved it so much. I remember when it was ending, thinking 'oh my god, this is like losing family'." Brigette: "I watched up to season five of Buffy before we started [I Saw the TV Glow], and I just totally fell in love with it. I miss it when I'm not watching it now. I fell in love with the community, and the idea that magic was real — that there was no question. I feel like I watched it kind of as Maddy, but I'll always love it as Brigette with the respect of it isn't mine completely, because I didn't watch it when I was young, but I really love it." On How Schoenbrun Obsessing Over Buffy — and Also Admiring Twin Peaks — Inspired I Saw the TV Glow Jane: "I think the experience that the film is trying to talk about — and it's doing this not only in a plot about 90s television, but through the aesthetics and tropes of 90s genre television — is a youth spent in front of the screen. I was a young queer kid growing up in the American suburbs, and the main thing that got me through that, or the main source of romance and mystery and joy in my life in this place where I think I not only couldn't be myself but I wasn't really being given any information to help me understand myself, the main place that I went looking for myself was in the screen. This is ultimately why I think like a show like Buffy or Twin Peaks became an obsession, because it was somewhere where I could catch a flicker of something more mysterious, something more magical. And I do think in many ways this was a queer experience. The movie, I think, talks about this very specific kind of parasocial relationship with fiction about fandom, about obsession, about searching for truth in fiction before you're ready to look inside yourself. And it's doing this using these genre cues that I learned from rewatching my Buffy tapes obsessively. It's a movie about people who love a show like that, but it's also very much a movie that's set in the heightened world of a Buffy or a Twin Peaks or an X-Files." On Lundy-Paine's Equivalent of Buffy or The Pink Opaque Brigette: "I think the first show that I really loved the way that Maddy and Owen loved The Pink Opaque was The OC. I watched it after it had been released, so I would record reruns from the soap channel. But I was really obsessed with the characters, and I felt like they were my friends — and it was the most devastating thing I've experienced when Marissa died in season three." On Making Films About Mediating Our Lives, and Coping with Alienation and Dysphoria, Through Fandom and Pop-Culture Fixations Jane: "I remember feeling like I've always been an artist, and I've always told myself stories and written screenplays or fan fiction, or anything that I could to be creative. It's a need that I have. But I had so much shame for the longest time about what kind of art I could make that would be authentic and not just a rip off of the things that I love, that would speak from a perspective in a place that that was deeply personal, and that could only come from who I was and where I came from. And a lot of that shame was repression. But there was this moment that was sort of in tandem with my coming out and my artistic awakening, where I kind of realised this cheat — which was they say 'write what you know', but what I know is watching. What I know is staring at a screen. And I think I'm enough of a self-reflective person to understand that that experience isn't all good or all bad, but that it is rife with mystery and ambiance and loneliness, and connection and love and sadness. And it can feel scary and alienating. It has political resonance, and it has personal resonance — and it's sort of the thing that we all do that we don't talk about in our art. It mediates our lives so deeply at this point, that in exploring that and not just exploring that from a political perspective but from my own life staring at a screen, and the way that it intertwined with who I was and what I was hiding from in myself, this just became, like I said, a cheat code of sorts to finally unlock my personal voice as an artist. I find the screen as a symbol just very compelling, both thematically and aesthetically, and it's something that I can return to over and over again without repeating myself so far. I find myself just wanting to dig deeper and deeper into that abyss." On Starring in a Movie That Is So Personal and Specific to Its Filmmaker Brigette: "One of the things about Jane that is so exciting is that they're able to communicate these really, really deep experiences and personal feelings in a way that other people feel a part of. I think that was one of the reasons the film was able to get made, was that in meeting after meeting they told their story, and they talked about what it meant for an egg to crack, which is the term of a trans person realising that they're trans. But also for myself, I had been experiencing the same things or very similar things to Jane, and that was one of the things we connected on when we first spoke — and I think one of the reasons that we trusted each other to make this movie together and to be fully vulnerable for it." On How Lundy-Paine Came to Be Involved in I Saw the TV Glow Brigette: "My good friend for a long time, Sam Intill, they sent me the script because they'd met Jane after seeing Jane's first film at Sundance, and they'd come on to produce this second one in its very, very early stages. And Sam connected Jane and I, and Jane and I just got along really, really well right away. We have a very similar sense of humour and experience, our perspectives of what making movies and what Hollywood meant to us — and the rules that we both wanted to break, and the experiences that we both wanted to help convey to the audience. So that was, I think, maybe two years before production. And then it was pretty locked in for Jane and I that we wanted to work together, and it was just a long process of Jane convincing A24 that that I would play the part. I had done a TV show, but I'm not a huge name and I think that was tricky for A24 to believe. But Jane was like 'no, it it has to be us. It has to be me and Brige'. And I was very grateful for that. And I had the script for a long time because of it, so I was able to like get really deep and comfortable with the words." On Lundy-Paine's First Reaction to the Script, What Resonated the Most and What They Saw That They Could Bring to the Film Brigette: "I think I was just so moved by how real it felt — and how it almost felt like mythology. The emotions of it were coming from such a raw place. And I really liked the way that Jane plays with the sort of shallow, cliched teen dialogue and then moves into a realm of almost subconscious communication to explore the actual meanings of what they're talking about. I think I felt the colours of the film really strongly. I felt this blue and pink neon electric sensation, and I also just knew that it was a character that I really wanted to have in my body, and I was really anxious to get to know her. I think I knew that arc very well. If I was different than Maddy myself — but I know, and I really wanted to free myself in the same ways that she did. So I was able to pull from my own angst and fear and love, and obsession with the stories and the worlds that that Maddy finds safety in." On Schoenbrun's Dreamy, Hazy, Like-You're-in-the-Characters'-Heads Aesthetic Jane: "Film as a dream was something that I was really interested in from the earliest stages of thinking about a language as an artist, like the idea of the experience of sitting in a dark room and seeing this thing — the only thing you can see. I had and still have these recurring dreams where I'll be watching something and then all of a sudden I will be inside of it. There were just these repetitions of interest in the process of travelling from watching something to being synonymous with the screen. There's a shot in We're All Going to the World's Fair where we slowly zoom in on a screen until the screen is no longer a screen, and it's our screen. This feels very trance-like to me. This feels like the process of falling asleep or dreaming. It feels very oneiric, and it's just fascinating to me because I think film is a medium so interested in time and space. Another big influence is the experimental film Wavelength, where we spend the entire movie just slowly moving across the room towards a painting. I find it like such a simple reminder of the power of the medium and perspective in the way that the third eye of the screen can help us understand space in a way that our own eyes can't. I just like it. There's a deepness and a mystery to it that I find myself continuing to chip away at. I could speculate about why I'm drawn to it. I read a really great book of queer trans film theory called Shimmering Images — Eliza Steinbock, I believe. I read this after I had made We're All Going to the World's Fair and it was an entire book of theory written about trans people's aesthetic connection to the shimmer, to liminality, to a space that is very transitory in its essence, and that we find some comfort in that space of transitory self because we relate to it. But I think there are so many resonances and so many reasons why I'm fascinated by haze, and by the screen and liminality and lo-fi aesthetics." Brigette: "I had so much fun with it because it's rare to work with a director who has a vision of such specific pacing and tone. And so we would do these scenes with, as I mentioned, sometimes the dialogue almost feels like canned or cliched, but because of Jane's style and the way that they're playing with that type of dialogue, it's about the pace and the rhythm. So we would have rehearsed a lot, but even when we got to set, we would do the scenes too fast. And so Jane had to continuously slow us down and remind us that it was almost as if we were existing in separate universes from each other, Owen and I. And so Jane would say 'this time, do it and don't even expect him to respond'. And I think that brings out some of that eerie, dreamlike quality." On Lundy-Paine's 90s Nostalgia Bent with Bill & Ted and Now I Saw the TV Glow Brigette: "I think it's something that interests me because it's something that activates a real personal and vital process for the directors or for the people who are making these films. I was born in 94, so I didn't experience too much of the 90s, but I obviously understand what it feels like to be nostalgic for, say, 2010. And so I think working on projects that are set in the 90s, it means a lot because it's the childhood, because it's a real place for the people creating these worlds. And also it just feels iconic. I remember I watched like Fight Club and Donnie Darko while we were filming, just randomly, and both times I was like 'I want to make a movie set in the 90s'. And realised 'ohh we are making a movie set in the 90s right now'." I Saw the TV Glow is screening in select Australian cinemas now, after opening on Thursday, August 29, 2024. Images: A24.
Barangaroo's a'Mare has long sat at the polished end of Sydney's Italian dining scene, all tableside theatre, crisp linens and a price point to match. Now, the Pavonis are opening things up. From April 22, the lauded restaurant will expand into a three-part venue, adding a new upstairs pizzeria and aperitivo bar, offering a more accessible way into one of the city's most pedigree-backed kitchens. If you know the names behind it, the move tracks. Alessandro and Anna Pavoni, the duo responsible for Ormeggio at The Spit, Cibaria Manly and Postino Osteria, have built a reputation on detail-driven Italian dining. Since opening in 2020, a'Mare has been their flagship: refined, exacting and firmly in 'special-occasion' territory. Upstairs, Pizza'Mare is shifting the dial. It's the group's first pizzeria, taking over the mezzanine with a more relaxed, drop-in format. The same produce-led philosophy, just expressed through pizza, pasta and antipasti instead of full-scale dining. The pizzas are built on a pre-fermented biga dough for a lighter, more digestible base, cooked in a Modena-imported MAM oven. Pizzaiolo Paolo Lacarpia, who has spun pizzas across Puglia and Tuscany, leads the offering under executive chef Giuseppe Fuzio. The menu leans clean and classic, with rigatoni cacio e pepe, punchy pennette arrabbiata and antipasti like Sydney rock oysters and octopus alla Luciana, alongside a tight pizza list that moves from traditional to downright luxurious. That includes the a'Marinara, topped with yellowfin tuna crudo, stracciatella and lemon zest (with optional caviar if you want to really get down). It's this balance that defines the new offering; familiar, but still unmistakably a'Mare. Next door, Vista'Mare is all about aperitivo culture, with spritzes, negronis and Venetian-style cicchetti designed for grazing by the harbour. There's also a rare Campari Seltz machine, one of only a handful worldwide, adding a direct line to Milanese drinking culture by way of frothy, ice-cold sippers. Don't fret though, none of this replaces the original experience. Downstairs, the a'Mare dining room continues as is, with its signature tableside service and dishes like trofie al pesto and cotoletta Milanese firmly leading the menu. Instead, the expansion reframes the experience. While a'Mare still sits comfortably in the anniversary and birthday camp, it now stretches across multiple formats, from a quick midweek pizza upstairs to Friday arvo knock-offs, and the full dining room experience below. For diners, this a new way in: the same kitchen, the same attention to detail, just without committing to the full-scale affair. Pizza'Mare and Vista'Mare are open now, and reservations can be made at the website here.
They're taking the humans inside Hobbiton. They're no longer saying "you shall not pass" to anyone wanting to do more than look at the external facades of hobbit holes on the movie set tour's Bagshot Row, too. After two decades of operation, the famous New Zealand attraction has finally added something that every The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit fan has wanted more than second breakfast: letting visitors step inside its cosy abodes. Standing outside Hobbiton's hobbit hole doors has been one of the venue's top experiences ever since opening on the 1250-acre Alexander family farm. Now, seeing what it's like to live like Bilbo and Frodo Baggins and their pals is on the agenda as well. The Bagshot Row hillside, which boasts three hobbit hole facades, has been excavated since March 2023 to include rooms behind the entryways. So, get ready to walk through a hall, a couple of bedrooms, and a kitchen and dining area — complete with a pantry capable of catering for seven daily meals — as well as a parlour with a fireplace, and a bathroom. Unsurprisingly, cosiness abounds. So do nods to generations of hobbits that would've inhabited the holes. Accordingly, visitors will see plenty of wooden surfaces and warm colours, as well as heirlooms and trinkets. Carvings grace the walls, hand-painted details are everywhere and the linens have been stitched by hand as well. One big piece of advice: watch your head when entering. The latest addition to Hobbiton is indeed hobbit sized at 83-percent scale, reflecting their shorter stature. The hobbit holes open for visitors on Friday, December 1, and are now part of all Hobbiton tours. "For two decades, we've welcomed millions of passionate visitors to Hobbiton Movie Set, but never before has anyone ventured beyond the door of a hobbit hole like this," said Hobbiton Movie Set's Chief Executive Officer Russell Alexander. "This extraordinary addition will fulfil a long-held dream for Hobbiton Movie Set and visitors alike, promising to immerse fans into the humble home of a hobbit for the first time." The hobbit hole doors on Bagshot Row are just three of Hobbiton's 44 in total; however, only Bagshot Row now lets tourists step inside while they're visiting The Shire. Attendees are encouraged to look for Easter eggs on their visit to Middle-earth's new must-see, with the hobbit holes brought to fruition by illustrators and concept designers John Howe and Alan Lee, The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey Art Director and Hobbiton Movie Set Project Manager Brian Massey, and Production Designer Ra Vincent. Before now, an Airbnb trip in March 2023 was the only chance that folks had of getting a true hobbit experience in Aotearoa's Waikato region, allowing the lucky people who scored the one-off booking to slumber like one of Middle-earth's shortest residents on the very property. Don't go packing your suitcase now, though, as overnight stays are not part of the new addition to Bagshot Row. Find Hobbiton Movie Set at 501 Buckland Road, Hinuera, Matamata, New Zealand, with venturing into the hobbit holes available from Friday, December 1, 2023 — head to the site's website for tickets and further details.
Total lunar eclipses occur regularly, if a little infrequently, but the next total lunar eclipse is set to be something special. The blood moon eclipse, when the moon turns a deep red before disappearing completely in the shadow of our own planet. Set to occur on Tuesday, March 3, this will be the final total lunar eclipse until December 2028 — so Sydney Observatory is going all out to help you see it. For the momentous lunar occasion, Sydney Observatory is teaming up with Nagoya City Science Museum in Japan, simultaneously observing the event from two continents and connecting the two via livestream for audiences in both nations. While you can see the eclipse from anywhere — weather permitting — you may as well see it from Sydney's highest natural point for the full effect, right? Explaining the science behind the phenomena, Dr Andrew Jacob, Astronomer and Curator at Sydney Observatory, said, "From any one location on Earth, you will see a Total Lunar Eclipse about once every 2.5 years, if the weather allows. Everyone on the night side of the Earth can see this eclipse when it happens. When the Moon is in the darkest part of Earth's shadow only red light reaches it, which will cause it to change colour." With the grounds open from 8–11.30pm for ticketholders — you'll also have the added benefits of viewing it through telescopes alongside members of the Sydney Skywatchers Society, the broadcast view from Nagoya and the professional astronomers guiding you through with all the astronomical knowledge you'll ever need. While you're there, you have reign of the grounds, and your free ticket will also grant you access to Sydney Observatory's exhibitions, including a celestial photography worthy of the stars in Southern Sky Observatory and an exploration of the history of First Nations astronomy in I Put The Stars on The Ground. If you can't make it on the night, the eclipse is scheduled to peak at 10.33pm, and you can watch the livestream on YouTube. The Blood Moon Eclipse is taking place from 8–11.30pm on Tuesday, March 3 at Sydney Observatory. For more information or to book tickets, visit the website. Images: Jay Evans/supplied
Few Sydney addresses carry the same depth of dining history as 134A Glebe Point Road. The cavernous sandstone grotto beneath the heritage-listed house became a cornerstone of the city's dining landscape in the late 1980s when it opened as Darling Mills — the Adey family's pioneering farm-to-table restaurant that helped shape Sydney's modern food culture before shuttering in 2003. Since then, the space has lived several lives, first as an Indian restaurant and, more recently, as moody Parisian-inspired brasserie and cocktail lounge Beckett's. But come February 2026, it'll be reborn once again as Darling Glebe. The upcoming venue will unfold across five distinct spaces, anchored by a martini bar that pours until midnight and a chef's table offering a French-leaning omakase experience. Original convict-chipped sandstone walls, vaulted ceilings and the weighty tables fashioned from a single native coachwood tree will remain, grounding the room firmly in its past even as the concept takes cues from French brasseries, New York's buzzy dining rooms and London polish. [caption id="attachment_1056420" align="alignnone" width="1920"] David Li Photography[/caption] These influences are no accident. Leading the revival is globetrotting chef and restaurateur Jeff Schroeter, a Riverina native whose CV spans The Savoy in London, Manhattan's Royalton Hotel, and Sydney institutions Bistro Moncur and Bayswater Brasserie, as well as cooking for high-profile figures including Queen Elizabeth II and Madonna. Over the course of his career, Schroeter has built a reputation for technical confidence and an instinctive feel for the room. Darling Glebe also marks a personal return for Schroeter, who previously co-founded Beckett's on the same site (the restaurant recently relocated to Spice Alley), before selling his stake to pursue other projects. When the space became available again, he jumped at the chance to help write its next chapter. [caption id="attachment_1056413" align="alignnone" width="1920"] David Li Photography[/caption] "This space is an heirloom to Sydney diners," Schroeter says. "It's always been one-of-a-kind, and we're proud to be its new custodians. We want to honour it for what it is — a culinary icon of the city's hospitality industry — and in doing so, welcome back those who loved it then, and invite a new generation to fall in love with its spirit now." Alongside the main dining room and martini bar, Darling Glebe will be home to a private chef's table where Schroeter will personally serve a French omakase menu, plus an intimate private dining room and an underground wine cellar for larger events. He's also assembled a top-shelf team, with two-time Diageo World Class Australian Bartender of the Year Charlie Ainsbury overseeing the drinks program and Sarah Biswas (Odd Culture Group, Restaurant Hubert, Banksii) stepping in as venue manager. [caption id="attachment_1056414" align="alignnone" width="1920"] David Li Photography[/caption] In a nod to the site's origins, Schroeter plans to source produce from the Adey family's still-thriving Darling Mills Farm and revisit elements from their decades-old recipe book, reinterpreting dishes that once put the venue on the map. As for the broader menu, details remain under wraps — and may continue to be that way even once Darling Glebe opens. "The room has always told me what it wants me to serve," says Schroeter. "I'm just here to listen." [caption id="attachment_1056415" align="alignnone" width="1920"] David Li Photography[/caption] [caption id="attachment_1056417" align="alignnone" width="1920"] David Li Photography[/caption] [caption id="attachment_1056418" align="alignnone" width="1920"] David Li Photography[/caption] [caption id="attachment_1056419" align="alignnone" width="1920"] David Li Photography[/caption] [caption id="attachment_1056421" align="alignnone" width="1920"] David Li Photography[/caption] Darling Glebe will open in February 2026 at 134A Glebe Point Road, Glebe, with dinner service from Wednesday to Sunday and Friday lunches to follow. For more information and first access to reservations, head to the venue's website.
Maybe Sammy is no stranger to winning an award. The Sydney bar has been named in the top 50 bars in the world every year since 2019 and took out the Best International Bar Team at the Tales of the Cocktail 2022 Spirited Awards. Now, all of those accolades have culminated in it taking out the top spot in the data-driven Top 500 Bars list for 2023. The international award compiles its list based on over 2000 sources, including hospitality experts, journalists, online reviews, search engine results and social media. It announced the list in Paris on the morning of Monday, November 13, Australian time, and the boundary-pushing Harbour City cocktail bar Maybe Sammy came out on top, being named the number-one bar in the world. [caption id="attachment_639976" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Black Pearl (#119)[/caption] Maybe Sammy was listed at number 17 in the 2022 list, jumping all the way to the top spot following another busy year for the inner-city haunt. Maybe Sammy Venue Manager Sarah Proietti and Bar Manager Hunter Gregory were in attendance to accept the award, with the venue beating out acclaimed bars around the world for the title. New York's Double Chicken Please, Barcelona's Paradiso, Paris' Little Red Door and Singapore's Jigger & Pony rounded out the top five, while 22 other Australian bars made the top 500. [caption id="attachment_707971" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Baxter Inn (#87), Leticia Almeida[/caption] The next highest spot on the list from Down Under was The Baxter Inn at 87, followed by Black Pearl at 119, Re- at 122, Cantina OK at 132 and Dean and Nancy on 22 at 134. The Gresham Bar was Brisbane's top-ranked venue, clocking in at number 475, while Adelaide's Maybe Mae snuck into the list at 485. "To be named number-one bar in the world by the Top 500 Bars feels very surreal," said Maybe Sammy co-founder Stefano Catino. "It's such an honour for our bar team to be recognised for the time and effort they put into making the experience at Maybe Sammy exceptional, and for that to be acknowledged on a global scale is so humbling." It follows a huge year for Maybe Sammy, which included the opening of the team's Paddington tequila bar El Primo Sanchez, a new Maybe Frank outpost at The Federal, and the launch of Maybe Cocktail Festival featuring guest bartenders from international cocktail bars — many of which also made the Top 500 Bars list. [caption id="attachment_795641" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Gresham (#475), Millie Tang[/caption] For the full Top 500 Bars list for 2023, head to the ranking's website.
Rozelle has landed a big and bold new space that is part viennoiserie, part cafe, and part bakery, drawing locals and visitors alike with the smell of fresh-baked goods. Lode has expanded its already loved viennoiserie to now include a 60-seat cafe and bakery. While Lode has existing shopfronts in Surry Hills, North Sydney and Circular Quay, this flagship store in Rozelle is set to deliver a whole new experience. Founder Federico Zanellato will showcase his signature craft at the Rozelle outpost, where you can now even enjoy a daytime brunch offering. Of course, Federico will be serving his beloved pies, and an all-new bread program will see blistered loaves and specialised sourdough flying off the shelves. The all-star lineup of pastries and breads includes the likes of pistachio croissants, lemon meringue bombolone, roasted tomato and olive fougasse and a passionfruit yuzu chiffon cake. More substantial offerings include a chicken jalapeño egg sandwich and a Lode burger. "The Rozelle flagship is the next step for us," says Federico. "We've always cared about the details, and now we get to show that across everything we bake, from our pies to breads, viennoiserie, and morning plates. It's a chance to bring the full LoDe experience to Sydney." Images: Supplied.
Given the trendy fit-out, tasteful fare and great coffee to boot, you'd think Wedge is the handiwork of someone who's done some serious rounds in the industry. Instead, it's the result of 23 year-old and first time cafe owner Toby Wilson's savoir-faire. That someone so young with only a few years of hospitality experience has pulled this off is impressive, to say the least. Everything at the Wedge screams attention to detail. The 5 Senses coffee blend hails from Melbourne, the single origin from Perth, and they even have blends from different roasters around Sydney doing the odd cameo. If you take your coffee strong and black, then Wedge's own 'Cold Drip' Coffee ($4) served on ice is worth a tilt. Several sophisticated herbal teas also feature on the menu. While the 'First Flush Darjeeling' is pushed as a must-try, in my humble opinion the real pick of the bunch is their Iced Tea ($5). Sweetened with rose water, and served with big chunks of ice and a dried rose bud garnish, it looks as good as it tastes. The menu features breakfast basics with a little added flare – their shaved dried fig, pistachio, ricotta and rosewater honey on fig sourdough is a case in point. However, it's the sandwiches that really stand out. The mouth-watering Pulled Pork sambo ($9) balances the sweet flavours of pork and plum sauce with coriander, spring onion and rock salt, and comes served on delicious chewy sourdough courtesy of Luxe Bakery in Newtown. The space can accommodate small groups but is best suited to you and a newspaper and/or a friend. With an open plan full of natural light it's a great summer spot, and it'll be even more interesting to see what they'll do in winter. Finally, a big thumbs-up to a cafe that isn't afraid to serve icy cold Milo and a hell of a lot of it. Hats off, Toby and the Wedge team.
When SXSW Sydney first started revealing details of its 2025 lineup, it promised more free programming on this year's bill. If you're keen to head along to the event's third year — after making its Harbour City debut in 2023, then returning in 2024 — without spending a cent, you'll want to make a date with Tumbalong Park, then. Again, the spot is playing host to the fest's budget-friendly activities, including everything from live music to movies, as well as DJ sets, talks, fashion showcases, pop-ups and more. Free sessions have always been a component of SXSW Sydney, but adding more was never not going to be a welcome move. Accordingly, after outlining that there'd be a significant expansion of its free programming, the festival has upped its Tumbalong Park lineup to 85-plus hours of events. At SXSW Sydney Unlocked, as the hub has been dubbed, there'll be more than 200 options to engage in the fest between Monday, October 13–Sunday, October 19. This part of the lineup runs every day, but will feature extended hours from Thursday–Sunday. Weekday lunch breaks are a particular focus, spanning programming from 12–1.30pm Monday–Friday, as are happy-hour sessions from 4.30pm Tuesday–Friday. So, SXSW Sydney clearly wants the city to join in whenever suits everyone's daily schedules — and via everything from guest appearances to surprise hosts, too. Highlights include the return of FOMA: Fabrics of Modern Australia on the runway; gigs by Indonesian hip hop stars Tenxi, Filipino folk-pop singer Angela Ken, J-Pop boy band Psychic Fever and Chinese Tencent singer Tia Ray; and Blak to the Future: A Celebration of First Nations Creatives' celebration of Indigenous filmmaking. Or, hit up twilight gigs in the Seymour Centre courtyard, get line-dancing lessons and see a range of country talent — Max Jackson, The Washboard Union, Lewis Love and Big Wheels — at Tumbalong Honky Tonk, and explore the Australian Space Agency's space-themed hub. There's also Small Fry Rock for families, with Grinspoon's Phil Jamieson and Little Birdy's Katy Steele taking to the stage. The Rubens are set to celebrate ten years of 'Hoops', while K-pop is also getting a moment. On the Saturday, if you fancy attending the Games Showcase and Innovation Expo without bothering your wallet, that's also on the agenda. "SXSW Sydney Unlocked represents the very heart of what SXSW Sydney is all about: access, discovery and connection. We're incredibly proud to offer a dynamic, free program that invites everyone, from families and students to workers on their lunch break, to experience the energy and ideas that define this global event," said SXSW Sydney Co-Managing Director Simon Cahill. "Whether you're watching a runway show, getting hands-on with future tech at our expo, or dancing with your kids in the park, this is a celebration of ideas and imagination, and everyone's invited." SXSW Sydney 2025 will run from Monday, October 13–Sunday, October 19 at various Sydney venues, including Tumbalong Park. Head to the SXSW Sydney website for further details. Images: Jess Gleeson, Paul McMillan and Ben Gibson.
For the first time ever, the Art Gallery of New South Wales brings to Sydney masterpieces from the golden age of Dutch painting — a culturally confident, powerful era when the art of painting flourished. It was during this time that artists including Rembrandt van Rijn and Johannes Vermeer produced vivid works depicting the world around them, with subjects ranging from intense portraits and dramatic seascapes to tranquil scenes of domestic life and careful studies of fruit and flowers. Exclusive to Sydney, the exhibition features 76 artworks sourced from Amsterdam's Rijksmuseum, including seven pivotal paintings and 16 etchings by Rembrandt presented in a room dedicated solely to the celebrated artist. The exhibition also brings a rare and celebrated piece by Vermeer, Woman reading a letter (1663). Jacob van Ruisdael, recognised as one of the most important landscapists of the era, and Jan Davidsz de Heem, the revered flower painter, also take their place among many other masters of this golden age. Meticulously painted, these artworks remain as vital and fresh as they were 400 years ago. What's more, to celebrate the launch of the exhibition — and help reduce the strain the return of summer puts on your wallet — we're giving away ten double passes to the exhibition so you can enter the world of rich paintings and celebrated works for yourself. To enter, see details below. [competition]641676[/competition]
As it turns out, that whole vinyl revival thing — it wasn't a fad. On the eve of another Record Store Day (RSD) — when music lovers pay tribute to independent record stores everywhere — physical music sales keep going up and up, with a recent ARIA report revealing sales increased 11 percent in 2025. While people continue to love vinyl, CDs are also booming, with a 30 percent increase in sales demonstrating strong demand for formats people can collect and connect with. Whether you're a lifelong crate-digger or just starting your journey, RSD is the prime time to get involved in the community. That's because the calendar is stacked with live in-stores, artist appearances and special events spanning both city and regional communities nationwide. Taking place on Saturday, April 18, it's time to leave the digital world behind and embrace Australia's thriving local music ecosystem, flush with incredible in-person experiences. In New South Wales, hip-hop duo Hermitude will visit eight record stores in 24 hours to celebrate the release of their new LP, with both live performances and raffles for limited-edition lathe-cut vinyl. Joining them at Bondi Records is Sydney dream pop trio Egoism, with the band heading to TITLE for a second set. Meanwhile, egg-punks (think heavy Devo influences) Media Puzzle take their DIY sound to Badlands Vinyl in Tweed Heads to support their RSD release, New Racehorse. The celebration continues across Victoria, with Queenie — the self-described trash queen alter ego of Melbourne's Eloise Thetford — taking over Desert Highways and Rocksteady Records with Nat Pavlovic, Merpire and more. At Soundmerch, you'll catch live sets from Public Figures, Owelu Dreamhouse, The Antics, The Gnomes and more. Then, from 3pm, Sensible J and Immy Owusu light up Bar Open. Of course, Northside Records is going large, with performances from Kee'ahn, Mokomokai and Steppers, alongside an exclusive Baker Boy signing. Further afield, Tassie's Suffragette Records will host an intimate performance from Naomi Keyte, performing songs from her album Milk, Paper, Gold. At the same time, Adelaide's My Dead Grandpa will have live DJs spinning tunes all day, and Clarity Records has over 2000 secondhand titles ready to fly out the door. Then, in Brisbane, Woolloongabba's vinyl-cafe hub, Echo and Bounce, hosts Das Druid and Bradley Zero. With loads more RSD events happening, check out your nearest spots to celebrate local tunes and help keep physical media alive. "At its heart, Record Store Day Australia is about championing our local music ecosystem, supporting independent stores, labels, and artists, while helping them reach new audiences," says Record Store Day Australia director Sarah Guppy. "We want to see the event continue to grow each year, and strengthen the role these stores play in their communities, ensuring they remain vital cultural spaces for years to come." Record Store Day Australia is happening at independent record stores across the country on Saturday, April 18. Head to the website for more information. Like what you see? Subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter to get stories just like these straight to your inbox. Images: Supplied.
Despite the doom and gloom, Australia's live music scene is still going off, with your local gig guide most likely chock-full of incredible bands, big and small, taking over a nearby stage. But while finding live music isn't usually the issue, finding someone to go with is a sadly common conundrum that leaves many of us staying home on the couch. However, Australia's first gig club is here to get you out the door and into your local venue, launching in Brisbane and Sydney with more locations coming soon. Conceived by Brisbane-based independent music company G.Y.R.O. — Get Your Record Out — the crew has just launched a brand-new concept: go to a gig. As they put it: "Think run club energy, but the destination is the dancefloor." If that sounds like your idea of a good time, the even better news is that getting involved is made to be super simple. Just register, connect with like-minded music fans and show up to a live show featuring an independent Australian artist. While your friends are at home moaning about cost of living this, crap weather that, you'll be out having a sick time. "The idea came to me when thinking through how we could get more people discovering great Australian talent," says Alison Bremner, General Manager of Marketing at GY.R.O. "People are craving genuine connection, and they want to find music through live experiences. go to a gig brings both of those things together in the best possible setting — a live venue, a great artist and people you haven't met yet." For first-timers, going to a gig solo might seem like a daunting prospect, but recent research shows that headbanging with strangers is becoming increasingly common. According to Ticketmaster UK's State of Festivals 2025 report, the number of people who attended a weekend or day festival by themselves has risen from 8 to 29 percent since 2019. Of course, marrying your schedule, budget and interests with your besties isn't always possible, especially during times like this. However, registering for go to a gig might just help keep your passion for live music alive when your plans don't align. Making its debut on Saturday, June 6, the first gig meet-up is happening in Brisbane, featuring local surf-rockers Mid Drift at The Triffid. The first go to a gig event is happening on Saturday, June 6, featuring Mid Drift at The Triffid. Head to the website for more information and to register your interest. Like what you see? Subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter to get stories just like these straight to your inbox. Images: Supplied.
Tucked away on Abercrombie Street, The Eveleigh offers old school pub charm in Redfern. It's been around forever and continues to be one of the most reasonably priced venues in the area, with a more eclectic menu than most. Expect a top-notch pub feed that won't break the bank. Swing by for curry night on Wednesdays or Thursdays, when you can snag the likes of chicken vindaloo and barramundi panang with a beer or wine — all for just $20. The Eveleigh also runs regular, next-level lunch specials like crispy barramundi, served with a salt and pepper calamari salad, for $13. And for drinks, there are $15 Aperol spritzes, margaritas and espresso martinis, plus $16 negronis.
Lil Miss Collins started out, well, lil'. The team hosted two pop-ups around town, then, once popularity was established, moved onto a spacious, grassy site, five minutes' walk from Parramatta station. The cafe's adorable (and permanent) home is a combination of shipping containers and recycled timber, which owner Tony Moussa, with the help of his family, transformed into a cafe. Once there were chickens, too, but Council regulations brought their residency to a swift end. The good news is there's no shortage of animal company: pets are welcome. In between patting dogs and maintaining his DIY digs, Moussa roasts his own coffee beans. Choose from a house-blend or a single origin, before perusing the hearty, healthy menu. Among the seasonal offerings, you'll find roasted pumpkin with poached egg, feta, labneh, broccolini, chilli and kale on sourdough, as well as slow-cooked lamb shoulder with rosemary, roasted potatoes, roasted pumpkin, lentils, fennel, béarnaise sauce and crisp bread.
Something delightful has been happening in cinemas across the country. After months spent empty, with projectors silent, theatres bare and the smell of popcorn fading, Australian picture palaces are back in business — spanning both big chains and smaller independent sites in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. During COVID-19 lockdowns, no one was short on things to watch, of course. In fact, you probably feel like you've streamed every movie ever made, including new releases, comedies, music documentaries, Studio Ghibli's animated fare and Nicolas Cage-starring flicks. But, even if you've spent all your time of late glued to your small screen, we're betting you just can't wait to sit in a darkened room and soak up the splendour of the bigger version. Thankfully, plenty of new films are hitting cinemas so that you can do just that — and we've rounded up, watched and reviewed everything on offer this week. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQKaZS9bK5U BLACKBIRD Helming an English-language remake of 2014 Danish film Silent Heart, director Roger Michel realises a crucial fact: if you're going to amass a cast that includes Kate Winslet (Ammonite), Mia Wasikowska (Judy & Punch), Sam Neill (Rams), Lindsay Duncan (Made in Italy), Rainn Wilson (The Meg) and Susan Sarandon (The Jesus Rolls), you need to give every single actor something weighty to do. So, working with a script written by Christian Torpe (TV's The Mist), as the original feature also did, the Notting Hill, Le Week-End and My Cousin Rachel filmmaker ensures that his high-profile cast members all get their time in the spotlight in the dialogue-heavy Blackbird. Their lesser-known co-stars Anson Boon (1917) and Bex Taylor-Klaus (13 Reasons Why) are similarly given their moments. As an ensemble effort, this illness-driven family reunion drama makes the most of its on-screen talent — and that remains the primarily by-the-numbers movie's biggest achievement as it endeavours to balance its weepie premise with its increasingly heated war of words. Playing characters who have been brought together in immensely difficult circumstances, and who each weather a predictable grab-bag of troubles once they're all in the same place for a weekend, Blackbird's lineup does always stress its work (no one here is overly subtle here), but they also help breathe feeling into a feature that'd be a far lesser affair without them. Winslet's high-strung angst, Wasikowska's baked-in melancholy and Neill's calm facade come in particularly handy, with the trio playing Jennifer, Anna and Paul — the chalk-and-cheese daughters and doting husband of the ailing Lily (Sarandon). Along with Jennifer's spouse Michael (Wilson) and son Jonathan (Boon), Anna's girlfriend Chris (Taylor-Klaus) and Lily's lifelong best friend Liz (Duncan), they've all gathered for one last hurrah. Terminally ill with a degenerative condition and unwilling to endure the worsening effects that are still certain to come, Lily wants to spend a few days farewelling her nearest and dearest at the well-appointed family home. Whether relatives come together for Christmas or for teary goodbyes (both of which apply here in their own ways), films about the concept never miss an opportunity to let sparks fly. With such heightened emotions whirring around during Lily's last days, that's forcefully, noticeably the case here. Blackbird makes the astute point that everyone has pain and secrets, even when they're facing the loss of a loved one, but that observation has become well-worn by the movie's many predecessors. Also routine is the movie's magazine-style visual sheen. If it wasn't for the sharp performances, watching this sometimes-moving picture would largely feel like simply looking at famous faces workshop trauma in a scenic letting. The feature's visuals are meant to isolate its characters against their eye-catching setting, but often it just loiters rather than meaningfully lingers. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wqoyVcrX_lA BOSS LEVEL Being a fan of time loop films can sometimes feel like being stuck in one yourself, especially when the genre's overly derivative entries reach screens. At their best, movies about repeating the same events over and over again call attention to life's small joys, its pervasive chaos or a combination of both. At their worst, such flicks use the concept as an empty gimmick to prop up an otherwise flimsy narrative. Boss Level veers in both directions at times. There's a cannily cathartic bent to the onslaught of destruction that comes its protagonist's way every time he awakens, all thanks to a horde of bloodthirsty assassins intent on ending his existence. Like Groundhog Day's Phil Connors at his most nihilistic, the film embraces the fact that life is carnage, literalising the idea as action movies do. But, as directed by Joe Carnahan (The Grey, The A-Team) and co-written by the filmmaker with Chris and Eddie Borey (Open Grave), Boss Level also attempts to paper over a slight narrative with rhythmically choreographed punches, bullets, swords and stunts, plus greeting card-level life lessons. It's exactly as straightforward as it sounds, and as standard. And, even for viewers unacquainted with Source Code, Edge of Tomorrow, the Happy Death Day franchise and Palm Springs, the film always feels as if it's following in better footsteps, including via sci-fi decor that could've stepped right out of Stargate and fight scenes that've taken inspiration from the John Wick series. Indeed, the movie's titular reference to video games isn't its only overt nod elsewhere. An ex-special forces soldier who now counts drowning his sorrows and bedding women he meets in bars as his main pastimes, Roy Pulver (Frank Grillo, Jiu Jitsu) has endured the same day 139 times when Boss Level begins. Through pithy narration, he explains the ins and outs of his new routine, where a flying blade acts like an alarm clock each and every morning, and the murderous foes just keep coming from there. Although yet to ascertain why he's been forced into this brutal cycle, Roy is beginning to suspect that it's linked to his ex-wife Jemma Wells (Naomi Watts, Penguin Bloom), who oversees a shadowy project for a sinister corporation led by the ominous Colonel Clive Ventor (Mel Gibson, Fatman). Roy and Jemma have a teenage son (debutant Rio Grillo) together, which complicates matters — because the former has hardly been a doting dad, adding to his regrets; and because the video game-loving kid also gives him something to lose. Like the most formulaic of side scrollers, Boss Level's highlights stem from its action scenes, rather than any story that's meant to fill in the gaps around them. That said, all those frenetic fists, kicks and weapons are helped by the elder Grillo, who has long screamed for more big-screen attention. Indeed, in a cast that also includes Michelle Yeoh (Last Christmas) and Ken Jeong (Occupation: Rainfall), he's the only one that isn't just aping what the movie does more often than not and simply going through the motions. https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=95&v=sf2EzBQiTr8&feature=emb_logo BILLIE EILISH: THE WORLD'S A LITTLE BLURRY When documentaries such as Amy and Kurt Cobain: Montage of Heck peered into the private lives of their very public central figures, they also gave rise to a clear realisation: without treasure troves of home videos and personal materials, all prophetically recorded and kept by their subjects and their loved ones long before they were stars, these films simply could not be made. That'll remain true of movies that look back at famous faces from times gone by (as seen in the recent Zappa), but Billie Eilish: The World's a Little Blurry definitely doesn't give off the same sensation. For today's top talents, the notion that it's lucky such footage even exists to give rise to a documentary has become out of date. It's now a given that almost anyone with even a sniff of fame — let alone musicians who've won five Grammys, topped Triple J's Hottest 100, notched up a number one album and single, and sung a Bond theme, all while still in their teens — will have recorded every aspect of their existence. And, it's also just a fact of life that such a tendency won't have begun with their ascending popularity. Accordingly, The World's a Little Blurry does indeed have a wealth of material at its disposal, but this latest addition to the ever-growing pop star documentary genre doesn't feel like a revelation, a peek behind the facade, or a rare candid look at someone usually seen through music videos, concerts and formal interviews. That's the other thing about celebrities today: their social media feeds already give fans a window into their worlds, and even helped catapult them to success, so the documentaries that inevitably follow can come across as more of the same. Starting with the recording of When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go? — which, yes, happened in her brother Finneas O'Connell's bedroom — The World's a Little Blurry perfectly fits the now-recognisable musician doco mould. From the moment that 'Bad Guy' became the ubiquitous track of 2019, a movie about Eilish was always bound to find its way to audiences, and to play out as this RJ Cutler (The September Issue, Belushi)-directed effort does. Raw, frank, relatable, accessible and even playful, the film adopts the same tone that's become synonymous with pop star Twitter and Instagram feeds. With Eilish's record label among the feature's producers, it's as rubber-stamped and carefully constructed as celebrity social media accounts are as well. That doesn't make The World's a Little Blurry any less engaging, or strip away the power of watching Eilish be herself for 140 minutes, but viewers are always seeing the sanctioned warts-and-all version of the documentary's point of focus (and, when she feels like it, the hamming-it-up-for-the-cameras version as well). Even just spanning a couple of years, the feature nonetheless provides a thorough snapshot of its subject's life, including her dislike of songwriting, the process of finishing the album, multiple tours, her Coachella set and the Grammys, plus her around-the-house behaviour, her rapport with her brother and parents, her romantic ups and downs, and her quest to get her drivers license. What resonates strongest, however, is one of the other influences behind the film's existence. Eilish's well-known love of Justin Bieber provides the movie's most illuminating thread, especially seeing the former start sobbing when she meets the latter. She was a big fan of Justin Bieber: Never Say Never, too, as her mother explains — and now, she has a matching movie. Billie Eilish: The World's a Little Blurry is currently screening in select cinemas, and is also available to stream via Apple TV+. If you're wondering what else is currently screening in cinemas — or has been lately — check out our rundown of new films released in Australia on November 5, November 12, November 19 and November 26; and December 3, December 10, December 17, December 26; and January 1, January 7, January 14, January 21 and January 28; February 4, February 11 and February 18. You can also read our full reviews of a heap of recent movies, such as The Craft: Legacy, Radioactive, Brazen Hussies, Freaky, Mank, Monsoon, Ellie and Abbie (and Ellie's Dead Aunt), American Utopia, Possessor, Misbehaviour, Happiest Season, The Prom, Sound of Metal, The Witches, The Midnight Sky, The Furnace, Wonder Woman 1984, Ottolenghi and the Cakes of Versailles, Nomadland, Pieces of a Woman, The Dry, Promising Young Woman, Summerland, Ammonite, The Dig, The White Tiger, Only the Animals, Malcolm & Marie, News of the World, High Ground, Earwig and the Witch, The Nest, Assassins, Synchronic, Another Round, Minari, Firestarter — The Story of Bangarra, The Truffle Hunters and The Little Things.
Watching television can't solve many problems, but some woes can be temporarily soothed by spending your evenings enjoying cartoons from three decades ago. Had a terrible day at work? Feeling overstretched and underappreciated? Stuck hovering under a cloud of meh? You can now feast your eyeballs on Australia's new free-to-air Nickelodeon channel and its retro lineup each weeknight for a pick-me-up. Switching to channel 13 from Tuesday, August 1 Down Under now means being greeted by Nickelodeon's wares. It's the first-ever premium free-to-air Nickelodeon channel in Australia, and it's catering for all ages. That includes adults via the Nick@Nite lineup, which also makes its Aussie debut on free-to-air, and will feature Ren & Stimpy, Angry Beavers, Rocko's Modern Life, Aaahh!!! Real Monsters and Catdog. It was true when you were a kid — whether you grew up in the 90s or discovered it later — and it's true now: watching a perennially angry chihuahua and a good-natured cat fight and pal around is cathartic viewing. Nickelodeon will also screen late-night movies, digging into the brand's catalogue. Here's hoping that the SpongeBob films get a run — they're as much of a delight for adults as they are for kids, as any big-screen franchise that features What We Do in the Shadows' Matt Berry as a talking dolphin and John Wick's Keanu Reeves as a sage is meant to be. During the day, the new channel will focus on Nick Jr preschool fare such as PAW Patrol, Blue's Clues & You!, Baby Shark's Big Show! and Santiago of the Seas. In the afternoons, it'll air season 12 of SpongeBob SquarePants, plus everything from The Smurfs and Double Dare to iCarly and The Thundermans. Indeed, if you have children or sometimes babysit nieces and nephews, you might want to take note of the daylight programming, too. Watching SpongeBob will always be for everyone, though. Find Australia's new free-to-air Nickelodeon channel at channel 13 from Tuesday, August 1.
What started as a lockdown pop-up is now one of Sydney's best bakeries with the opening of Fabbrica Bread Shop inside a delightful grocer in Rozelle. Back in 2021, Sydneysiders were pining after any treat they could get their hands on as they stuck out a four-month lockdown. During this time, the Love Tilly Group (the team behind favourites like Ragazzi, Fabbrica and Love, Tilly Devine) was one of many Sydney businesses that made a pivot to something more takeaway-friendly, utilising its King Street pasta and wine shop as a bakery on weekends. The name: Fabbrica Bread Shop. Following the success of that venture, the crew transformed the concept into a permanent bakery and 12-seat cafe in the Rozelle location within the new Maloneys Grocer just down the road from Egg of the Universe and across from The Red Lion pub on Darling Street. Expect a mix of classic baked goods and experimental items, including hot honey focaccia, Tathra Place porchetta croissants, metre-long pizzas, cookies the size of your hand and basque cheesecake. The pick of the bunch is the banoffee tart, which has a banana bread energy to the filling and is topped with fluffy banana cream. It's truly indulgent but not so sweet that you can't start your day with it. Leading the kitchen is Love Tilly Group's super talented Head Baker Aniruddha Bhosekar and Fabbrica Pasta Shop's Alyce Bennett (formerly Humble Bakery). Raised in Thane in India, Bhosekar was trained at Mumbai's oldest hospitality institute and brings a wealth of experience to create this unreal slate of bakery items. Inside the grocer, you'll find fresh produce, bouquets of flowers, artisan pantry items and more Fabbrica goodies — including sourdough baked right there at the bread shop, plus the team's beloved ready-to-cook pasta packs and jarred sauces, can be found on the shelves of the store. Images: Jana Langhorst for Buffet Digital
Melbourne will be stepping up its hotel game in the coming years, with Adina's new Pentridge Prison development, Bennetts Lane's proposed jazz-era hotel, and the upscale CBD outpost of Mornington Peninsula's Jackalope. And now the city's is set to welcome yet another luxury accommodation offering into the fold, as the internationally renowned St. Regis Hotels & Resorts makes its Aussie debut, with a 168-room hotel slated to open in 2022. The grand hotel will spread over ten floors of the yet-to-be-built, 33-storey Flinders Bank precinct, towering above the CBD on the corner of Spencer and Flinders Streets. And it's set to be a pretty swanky operation, sporting luxury interiors by famed design studio Chada and a cutting-edge building design by Melbourne's own Fender Katsalidis Architects. It will have an onsite wellness and fitness centre, too, complete with a spa, a salon and a 25-metre indoor pool, and the acclaimed St. Regis Butler Service will let guests customise every last detail of their stay. The hotel will also feature a bunch of upscale wining and dining options, including a specialty restaurant and the elegant St Regis Bar. For the uninitiated, the St Regis New York's King Cole Bar was the supposed birthplace of the Bloody Mary back in 1934 and the hotel brand has claimed the spicy cocktail as its signature sip ever since. Here, the bar will be whipping up a special Melbourne edition of the drink — we wonder just what that entails. The St Regis Melbourne has 40 hotels worldwide — including in New York, Mallorca and the Maldives — and is one of the Marriott International's brands. The parent company has announced more plans to open hotels Down Under, too, with the recent launch of the W Hotel in Brisbane and W Hotels also planned for Sydney and Melbourne. St Regis Melbourne is slated to open in the new Flinders Bank precinct in 2022.
Alpine, mountainous, snow-capped — these aren't words you would normally associate with our sun-kissed country. But Australia is a land of extreme seasons and surprises. The High Country is right on our doorstep, only a few hours' drive from Melbourne, but it's almost a different world, especially in autumn. The transitional season between the sun-drenched summers and snowy winters is one of the most fascinating times to visit the High Country. Before the mountains go into full alpine retreat mode, they come alive with apple trees, autumnal colours, and the emotive, alluring scent of deciduous environments that we only get to experience once a year. Not to mention the bountiful gastronomic opportunities that the harvest season presents to the High Country's many wineries, pubs, cafes and farm doors. Because we know that no mountainous hike is the same without something delicious to sustain and motivate you, we've paired the region's best hearty bites with its most invigorating treks. BRIGHT AND TIKI COCKTAILS Start in Bright, a historic village that acts as the gateway to some of the region's best treks. Bright itself is worth the trip in autumn for both its glorious autumn foliage and its inspired culinary scene. To fuel up (and you're going to need it), head to Tomahawks — a cool, cosy bar and restaurant in the middle of town. Try the chargrilled broccoli served with smoked butter and almonds and the dukkah lamb ribs for a hearty snack, or go one of their brioche buns if you want more energy. Make sure to try their Tiki cocktails while you're there — they pack a flavoursome punch. Afterwards, drive about an hour north of Bright to Diamantina Hut and trek up Mount Feathertop. From there, it's an 11-kilometre hike up the mountain — about seven hours return. It's a steep climb but will take you into another world in autumn: a misty, mossy, fantasy land with spectacular views. If you end up back in Bright, reward yourself with a drink at distillery Reed & Co, whose signature Remedy dry gin is made with native pine needles and eucalyptus. The venue also boasts a custom-made fuel grill so you can count on a nourishing meal to fill you up. WANDILIGONG AND MUSHROOM FORAGING If a seven-hour hike is a little intimidating, try this alternative. Start, once again, in the beautiful town of Bright with a mushroom foraging class. They run throughout May (prime mushroom foraging season) at a local cooking school. You'll hunt for local mushies before learning five Italian recipes to make the most of your haul. Then put your new skills to the test on a six-kilometre trek to Wandiligong, a tiny gold-mining town to the south of Bright. In April, the town hosts a seasonal nut festival where the growers of the region harvest and show off their produce, both nut and otherwise. Get on down there for the chestnuts-roasting-on-an-open-fire smell alone. Make the most of your time in Wandiligong by stopping at some of its other foodie haunts: Wandiful Produce, where you can gather your own freshly fallen chestnuts at this time of year and take a tour of the farm, and Nightingale Brothers orchards, the spot to imbibe fresh apple cider and stock up on edible gifts. MOUNT HOTHAM AND VIENNA SCHNITZEL Go properly Sound of Music with an Alps-inspired mountain adventure. Start the proceedings at Zirky's, the Mount Hotham resort founded by Austrian Peter Zirknitzer, who came out here in the 1950s to teach skiing. His family still runs this operation, and their European roots shine through in the dining room, where Austrian-style schnitzel is served on Wednesday nights. Then, in stark contrast to such luxury, head on down to Mount Hotham and brave the three-day alpine camping trek. It's a 37-kilometre trek from Mouth Hotham to Falls Creek, and autumn is the perfect time to go. It's cold enough to use all that shiny, high-tech camping gear you love, but not so cold that you'll need cross-country skis. The manageable track winds through snow-gum woodlands and snow grass plains, with a few summits and historical sites along the way. This trek requires a bit of pre-planning because of the camping element, but it's well worth it. Consider overnighting at Cope Hut or Dibbins Hut, where there are new camping platforms. MOUNT BULLER AND A CELLAR DOOR If you lean more towards the food and wine side of the trek and treat adventure, opt for an easier hike between the twin peaks of Mount Buller and Mount Stirling. The moderate 7-kilometre trail takes about 2.5 hours through pretty snow gum forest. Those seeking truly iconic scenery can take a detour to a nearby cabin, used in the movie The Man From Snowy River. You'll want to make a stop on your way down Mount Buller at Delatite Wines. Their cellar door serves simple antipasto platters made with local ingredients — a fine accompaniment to the European-style wine and rolling hillside views. MOUNT BUFFALO AND AN OLIVE GROVE If you want to get your hands on some local produce, stop by the local olive grove and farm gate at Mount Buffalo Olives. Extra virgin olive oil is, as we all know, the nectar of the Gods, and it doesn't get much better than this. The Mount Buffalo olive vineyard has incredible views of the region. As well as olives and olive oil, they produce lots of tasty treats to fill out a picnic basket. Once you have your picnic ingredients sorted, head to Lake Catani campground. It's a great picnic destination to gorge yourself on all that freshness, and it's the starting point for plenty of 2-3 hour hikes up Mount Buffalo itself. Mount Buffalo is one of the easier hiking destinations in the High Country, so think of it as more of a digestive stroll than a high-adrenaline slog. For the athletes, there's the Horn Trail 30 minutes away — it's a punishing uphill trek that rewards you with the best views. BEECHWORTH AND BEER If you're interested in the history of the region, head to Beechworth and check out the Gorge Scenic walking tour. This one is a moderate walk (not a hike, so leave the hydration backpack at home for this one) and give yourself a few hours to enjoy it. The trail takes you out of town, through rugged Victorian country and the richest goldfields in Australia then loops back around to finish at the Beechworth Visitor Centre. You'll travel past waterfalls, rugged landscapes, historical sites, goldfields, quarries and bridges. The town of Beechworth also has a rich architectural history that'll leave you feeling like you're in an episode of Aussie-style Westworld. Grab some educational material from the visitor centre to get the most out of the walk. And when you're all wandered out, head over to Bridge Road Brewers to recover with a chestnut pilsner and roast duck pizza. They make all their small-batch beers on site, while the kitchen specialises in some of the world's other best sources of carbs — pizza and pretzels. Plan your High Country getaway by visiting the Wander Victoria website and discover more of the autumnal delights across regional Victoria before the season is out.
You don't have to travel far to experience the best luxury stays in Sydney, even one right on the beachfront. Having welcomed its first guests in December, the InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach's landmark reveal offers an indulgent 198-room stay less than ten kilometres from the CBD. However, the hotel is now ready to unveil its final sunlit sanctuary, featuring an ocean-facing infinity pool and terrace, now open to guests. Perched right above the coastline, the launch of this centrepiece pool deck will undoubtedly elevate your stay. Featuring sweeping ocean views, the water is heated all year round, so you won't have a problem diving in even when Coogee gets a little nippy in the wintertime. Meanwhile, surrounding private cabanas, sun lounges and softly layered seating invite guests to take a dip, then linger as long as they please. What's more, you can spend hours comfortably enjoying the pool and terrace thanks to adjustable screening and pergola elements that filter the light. Helping to keep guests cool when temperatures soar, carefully considered plantings include canopy palms, coastal grasses and native species that bring spurts of greenery to the pool deck and contrast with its whitewashed hues and tactile textures. When you need a break from the sun, an adjoining poolside dining offering is made for beachside bliss. Featuring a light menu stacked with inviting options, crispy beer-battered fish burgers and Morton Bay bug rolls are served alongside a lineup of nourishing bowls, including a tuna dish featuring sashimi-grade fish, brown rice, avocado and more. For a larger feed, head to Shutters or Rick Stein at Coogee to discover the renowned British chef's produce-driven seafood cuisine. "These new experiences reflect our vision to create a refined yet relaxed coastal retreat where guests can connect with Coogee's natural beauty while enjoying a truly elevated stay," says Melinda Lampier, General Manager of InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach. "From the year-round heated pool to the ocean-facing terrace, we have designed spaces that invite both locals and international visitors to linger, unwind and experience the rhythm of the coastline." While the arrival of the infinity pool and terrace is big news for the hotel, there are still more exciting updates just around the corner. In May, the Èliva Spa will open, featuring magnesium pools, salt saunas, a crystal steam room and tailored restorative treatments. In addition, Club InterContinental will bring a discreet escape to the property, offering private luxury lounge access and a members-only open-air terrace. Oh, and some pickleball courts will get you warmed up before heading to the pool. InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach is located at 242 Arden St, Coogee. Head to the website for more information. Like what you see? Subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter to get stories just like these straight to your inbox. Images: Supplied.
