Under current COVID-19 restrictions in Australia, you can't go on a holiday (locally or overseas). But, you can start dreaming. Bookmark this for when you can explore once again. Winding through the rugged expanse of Victoria's Wimmera Mallee region, lies the country's largest outdoor gallery, where the artworks are metres tall, and grace not walls, but towering grain silos. First dreamt up back in 2016, evolving from a small community art project, the now famed Silo Art Trail unfolds over 200 kilometres, where six large-scale works have transformed structures in Brim, Patchewollock, Lascelles, Rupanyup, Sheep Hills and Rosebery. The mural portraits, painted by a collective of artists in conjunction with Yarriambiack Shire Council and international street art agency Juddy Roller, capture the spirit and history of this unique corner of the world, each work offering a snapshot of its host town. If you're visiting the art trail from Melbourne, the closest silo is in Rupanyup — approximately 3.5-hours' drive from the CBD. From there, it'll take you just over two hours to reach the other end of the art trail in Patchewollock. That's the order we've listed the artworks here, but to design an alternate route, head to the Silo Art Trail website. [caption id="attachment_681273" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nicole Reed[/caption] RUPANYUP, JULIA VOLCHKOVA When you reach Rupanyup, you'll spy a realistic pair of faces by Russian muralist Julia Volchkova, an homage to local youngsters Ebony Baker and Jordan Weidemann. Kitted out in their sports gear and looking bright-eyed and fearless, the characters are a nod to the region's younger generation and the realities of rural life for adolescents. Here, Volchkova has used monochrome tones to capture a spirit of strength, creating a lifelike mural similar to her large-scale works depicting locals across Southeast Asia. [caption id="attachment_681271" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nicole Reed[/caption] SHEEP HILLS, ADNATE Shining a light on the region's indigenous history and community, the 80-year-old GrainCorp silos in Sheep Hills now boast a vibrant portrait of four locals — Wergaia Elder Uncle Ron Marks and Wotjobaluk Elder Aunty Regina Hood, alongside children Curtly McDonald and Savannah Marks — with a bold, dreamtime-inspired night sky as the background. The striking piece is the work of Melbourne artist Adnate, whose creative focus often lies in sharing the stories and cultures of Aboriginal Australians. Here, he has embraced the concept of customs and wisdom being passed down through the generations, and the strong ancestral bonds shared among the area's indigenous community. [caption id="attachment_681276" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nicole Reed[/caption] BRIM, GUIDO VAN HELTEN The striking Guido van Helten mural in Brim is where it all began in 2016, spurring inspiration for the rest of the project after putting this sleepy town on the map. Melbourne-raised van Helten kicked things off strongly with his earthy-toned portrait of four farmers, all varying ages, themed around shifting ideas of community identity. The artist's work using translucent aerosol paints lends a faded, ghostlike quality to the characters, shaking the concept of time. [caption id="attachment_681274" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nicole Reed[/caption] ROSEBERY, KAFF-EINE The latest addition to the Silo Art Trail is a captivating Rosebery mural by lawyer-turned-street artist Kaff-eine. She has set out to embrace the region's past, present and future, with a portrait of a young female sheep farmer, alongside one of a horseman bonding with his four-legged mate. Elements like cowboy boots, Akubra hat and oilskin vest aren't just an unmistakable nod to country life, but capture the strong sense of symbolism that is signature to much of Kaff-eine's work. [caption id="attachment_681275" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nicole Reed[/caption] LASCELLES, RONE Meanwhile, over in Lascelles, there's a sense of quiet wisdom that emanates from the portrait of fourth-generation farming couple Geoff and Merrilyn Horman, wrapped around two decades-old grain silos. Captured by Melbourne's Rone in 2017, this one speaks to a people's deep, long-running connection to the land, with monochrome hues and water-blended paint creating a hazy, ghostly effect through the work. [caption id="attachment_681272" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nicole Reed[/caption] PATCHEWOLLOCK, FINTAN MAGEE In Patchewollock, Fintan Magee's 2016 silo mural was inspired by a stay at the local pub, where he met his portrait subject, local farmer Nick "Noodle" Hulland. The colourful, 35-metre-tall piece is a fitting ode to the hard-working Aussie farming community and its rugged spirit. Hulland's shown gazing to the horizon wearing the classic faded flanny, sun-bleached hair and weathered face that so often go hand in hand with life on the land.
It takes a fair amount of chutzpah to open your first bar — and a wine bar at that — and call it "a bartender's bar", but Enmore Road spot Bar DEMO isn't about playing by the rules. What it does have, though, is some serious credentials to back up its claim: run by seasoned bartenders (and first-time owners) Claudia Morgan and Olly Churcher, who met while working at Double Deuce Lounge, the 50-seat venue doesn't take itself too seriously — except when it comes to its mood-driven wine list, its tight, fuss-free cocktail offering and a hi-fi sound system spinning vinyl records in full all night long. Inspired by the new wave of casual, walk-in wine bars found in San Francisco, Paris and Berlin, Bar DEMO welcomes both serious oenophiles and the vino-curious alike. Its approachable 60-bottle wine list isn't grouped by grape or region, but rather by mood, whether you're after something easy to drink or feeling like a grown-up wine. There's also a solid selection of bottles for under $100 and around a dozen on rotation available by the glass in two sizes, with a focus on natural producers. A sharp cocktail list is just as considered, with playful selections like two-sip 'fun-sized' serves, throwback classics — dark 'n' stormy, anyone? — and creative signatures like the teeth-chatteringly cold house martini served at –15 degrees. There's no kitchen here, but you will find some great snacks curated with drinks pairing in mind, like Cantabrian anchovies, LP's charcuterie, and cheese prepared to order. Once a month, Bar DEMO will host Sunday guest chef pop-ups, which will see some of Sydney's top kitchen talent whip up a selection of exclusive, no-fuss small plates each at under $20. It's not just the drinks here that hint at the kind of space Morgan and Churcher want Bar DEMO to be — the venue's personality comes through in every detail, from its booth-lined layout to the nightly soundtrack of vinyl LPs played from start to finish on a sound system handmade by Marrickville studio Translate Sound. It's all intended to create a space for connection and conversation, with the kind of off-the-cuff energy that invites you to settle in for the night, even if you only came in for one drink. Images: Katje Ford.
Maybe your nieces and nephews got you onto it, or the other kids in your life. Perhaps you just like all-ages-friendly animation, especially when it's an Australian series about a family of blue heelers. Or, you might've become a convert at one of the hugely popular Bluey live gigs that've been touring the country. Whichever fits, and whether you're a big Bluey fan even without kids in tow or you've always wondered why adults love it as well, Airbnb is bringing the homegrown show to life. As the accommodation platform has done with other pop culture favourites overseas — such as Carrie's Sex and the City apartment and the house from Home Alone — it's putting a replica of the Bluey house in Brisbane up for rent. Two adults and two kids will be able to spend two nights in a home that recreates the Heeler family's abode — but IRL rather than in cute pixels, obviously. Given that the show was created in Queensland, is produced in Queensland and uses Brisbane as inspiration for its on-screen setting, there was clearly only one city that could host this screen-to-reality experience. The Bluey house marks the first-ever Australian location in Airbnb's Only On Airbnb program — aka the part of the platform that lists all those pop culture-themed spots and offers up the type of experiences that money couldn't buy elsewhere. So this time, Aussies don't need to feel envious of their overseas pals. You do have to be ready to spend a couple days immersed in all things Bluey, though. Here's what's on offer: a stay in the house, which is located in suburban Brisbane, between Friday, February 18–Sunday, February 20 for $20 a night; a behind-the-scenes tour of Ludo Studio, where Bluey is created; Chinese takeaway to eat in the backyard; a cake-decorating afternoon, focusing on the show's famous duck cake; and a puppet-making craft session that's all about Bob Bilby. That, and all the work that's been done to make the house look like where Bluey's eponymous six-year-old dog, mum Chilli, dad Bandit and little sister Bingo live. Those decorating touches include the red letterbox, bone-shaped chimney and recognisable bay window, plus other design features — and toys, of course — inside in the rooms and outside in the backyard for kids. If you're keen — and you've got some young relatives to take along with you — you'll need to apply to book at 7am AEST / 8am AEDT on Tuesday, February 15. You'll also need to have a verified Airbnb profile, a history of positive reviews and be aged over 18. Also, no pets are allowed, even while you're celebrating cartoon canines. For more information about Airbnb's Bluey house in Brisbane, or to apply to book at 7am AEST / 8am AEDT on Tuesday, February 15, head to the Airbnb website. 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. Image: Hannah Puechmarin.
A new rooftop bar from a beloved Sydney brewer is now open in the inner west. Philter Brewing is drawing inspiration from 80s garden bars and Palm Springs with its sun-soaked rooftop bar on top of its Marrickville brewery and taproom. Since launching a no-fuss XPA four years ago, Philter has become a mainstay in Sydney bottle shops, pubs and bars. Now, the craft beer merchant is trying its hand at facilitating summer beers and cocktails by opening this new rooftop venue, Marrickville Springs. The space is fitted out with pastel-hued tiles, white breeze blocks, a neon bin chicken and a mural from local artist Mielo. "The ibis was a given, nothing says Marrickville like a picnic pirate, but the palm trees shout out to the area, too," Philter Sales and Marketing Director Stef Constantoulas says. "We wanted Marrickville Springs to have a totally different feel to our bar and restaurant downstairs, but it's still very Philter — it's all in the retro touches," Managing Director Mick Niel says. On the rooftop you'll be able to sip Philter's range of beers both on tap and in tins, plus your choice from a reserved wine list and frozen cocktails. Enmore Road joint Jacoby's will be helping out by curating a selection of classic cocktails for the bar. While cracking a beer in the sun is the main attraction at Marrickville Springs, there will also be a selection of typical but tasty bar snacks including dinner party favourite prawn cocktails and tasting boards decked out with locally sourced cheese. The bar will be open to walk-ins, but if you're heading out with a large group you can reserve a spot at the Philter Brewing website. Appears in: The Best Rooftop Bars in Sydney
If you're after a traditional Italian grocer, look no further than Quattro Deli in Chatswood Chase. The delicatessen sources local and imported specialty items, offering a huge range of cheeses — think Italian gorgonzola, buffalo mozzarella and plenty of washed-rind numbers — and heaps of Italian cured meats, including salami, mortadella and prosciutto. Its impressive selection also extends to olives, antipasti, jams, spreads, fresh pasta and sauces. You can grab desserts aplenty, too, including Italian nougat, biscuits, chocolates and other packaged sweets. If that's not enough, a huge cellar features vinos from Italy, France, South America and Spain, along with Australia and New Zealand. Images: Trent van der Jagt.
For many families in the hospitality industry, children often inherit the beloved restaurants where they spent their formative years. It's not often that you find a hospitality veteran launching a restaurant specifically with his parents in mind. Brookvale's Bazaar and Bar and Sketch Manly founder, Kabir Arora, wanted to give his parents a "real place to land" once they emigrated to Australia from India. "Mum had years of catering experience back in India and deserved a kitchen where she could show off properly," says Kabir. "Dad, BJ, is a numbers guy, so he slid straight into the accounting seat. Sketch became our family project before it ever became a restaurant." If you're not familiar with the curry and craft beer house, Sketch Manly, you've been missing out. The restaurant started with Indian tapas nights that the locals packed out. Throughout COVID, Sketch Manly stayed open every day and nine years into their venture, the restaurant still hasn't closed its doors once. "That's how committed we are to being part of this neighbourhood," says Kabir. "Sketch is what it is because Manly made it that way." Kabir describes Sketch Manly as Indian home-cooking meets a cosy Melbourne bar (despite being in Sydney). "Vibey street energy, hip tunes, and a space built with genuine care for food and drinks," Kabir tells Concrete Playground. Sketch Manly's curries are all Kabir's mum's, Sukh's recipes. "It's simple food done right. Our butter chicken and mushroom korma anchor the menu, and the rest rotates seasonally. No gimmicks. Just home cooking executed properly." Said butter chicken is the "unofficial mascot of Sketch", and Kabir prides himself on their version going back to basics. "Too many Sydney spots have turned butter chicken into dessert, so we went in the opposite direction: tomato, butter, cream, a few spices, and restraint." Kabir's partner, Ivy, has also helped Manly to fall in love with the restaurant's newest dessert: the Chai-misu, an Indian twist on the ever-popular tiramisu. Alongside its food offerings, Sketch Manly is also known for pairing its homemade curries with crispy craft beers. "Spices and a crisp, cold beer are natural mates," says Kabir. "A clean lager cools things down beautifully, but a juicy pale or hazy IPA can actually lift the flavours and make the whole meal pop." Ultimately, the family ethos that began Sketch Manly is what Kabir hopes customers feel after dining in. Similar to eating at your cousin's or mum's place, he says, the family hopes diners leave full, content, happy and planning their next visit. "It's the neighbourhood curry spot where everyone feels welcome," says Kabir. "First-timers, regulars, families, tradies — whoever walks in gets treated like part of the crew. We cook the same way every day, with the same care." So, what's next for the Northern Beaches restaurant? Kabir is setting his sights on more dinner collaborations, hibachi nights, and even an expansion. "And we're finally launching Sketch Goods — small-batch chutneys, sauces, pickles, and other Indian pantry staples we've been quietly perfecting," says Kabir. The idea for Sketch Goods is simple: bring Sketch Manly's beloved flavours into other cafes, delis, pubs, and home kitchens. What began as a family project has turned into a nearly decade-long love affair with the Northern Beaches suburb, and as the Pittwater Road gem expands, it seems Sketch Manly's food and flavours could soon be enjoyed by more than just the locals. Images: Supplied
Just as not all movies are created equal, neither are all stints on screens. The big, in budget and attendance, stick around. The small, in audience awareness but not in artistry or effort, might not stay that long. Such a cinema environment sees many gems fall by the wayside in the battle for viewer hearts and minds – many that rank among the year’s best, too. So which 2014 films should you have perhaps taken a chance on instead of just seeing the latest shiny blockbuster? Here’s ten that local box office performance tells us you most likely missed, but really shouldn’t have. THE BABADOOK Jennifer Kent’s debut feature is one of the best among Australian efforts, horror films, and haunted house fright fests — both of this year, and of all others. Alas, in a nation that rarely embraces anything spooky on the big screen en masse, it came and went quickly, though what it lacked in local attention it is now making up for in international acclaim. Such recognition is mere window dressing for a movie that allows its equally touching and terrifying content to make its own statement as it charts a single mother’s troubles when her six-year-old son finds fear in a formidable figure that springs from the page into his bedroom. The style, the story and the scares can now continue off-screen, too, courtesy of a crowd-supported production run of the pop-up book at the centre of the chills. Read our full review. ALL THIS MAYHEM Great dramas are made of the same ingredients as this stunning homegrown true tale, a rise to fame, a fall from grace, seeking glory at all costs, and getting mixed up with the wrong things among them. In Eddie Martin’s documentary, all this and more is wrapped up in a roller-coaster ride that starts in the Melbourne suburbs, reaches the heights of the international skateboarding scene, and comes crashing towards its conclusion with the tragedy of what might have been in different circumstances. For those unfamiliar with the story of brothers Tas and Ben Pappas, the film offers the best account you’ll ever experience. For those aware of the details, devastation still emanates from a feature suitably straightforward in structure and shattering in sentiment. Read our full review. FORCE MAJEURE While audiences flocked to Gone Girl’s twisty take on marriage and masculinity, a Swedish couple holidaying in the French Alps with their kids spawned the same musings in just as cynical and striking a fashion. Force Majeure begins with a seemingly impending avalanche, in the face of which, a man runs away as his family looks on. Watching the aftermath as the central pair fight in public yet drift apart in private is not only astute but also amusing in its insights. Writer/director Ruben Östlund has crafted an acerbic comedy of discomfort that says everything about the most intimate of interpersonal relations, with a mastery of form to match the complexity of theme. Read our full review. MY SWEET PEPPER LAND One feminist western – A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night, which also earns many other descriptors, too – is starting to appear at Australian festivals and in niche screening runs; however, this year also brought another to local screens. Writer/director Hiner Saleem and actress Golshifteh Farahani combine to chart a teacher’s fight for independence in male-dominated Kurdistan, both excelling with the material. Also fuelling the narrative is a policeman’s quest for a new existence free from his gun-slinging past. In this tale of two outsiders endeavouring to establish their own identities and exert power over their own dominion, all the tropes unravel amid a desolate landscape, and given the parallels with the nation’s sociopolitical climate, the film ranges beyond its adopted genre. Read our full review. THE MISSING PICTURE Wading through the past to get a grasp on his – and Cambodia’s – present, filmmaker Rithy Panh attempts to fill in the gaps in his own and well as the collective memory. With the assistance of sculptor Sarith Mang, he assembles figurines and dioramas of clay and wood to restage scenes from his childhood, the fleetingly beautiful and the inescapably brutal among them. The documentarian earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Foreign Language Film for his efforts, his latest offering continuing his prolonged fascination with the state of his country. As modest as it is meticulous, and as moving and illuminating, too, this is a picture that shouldn’t be missed. Pun intended. THE DARK HORSE Stories similar to the real-life circumstances of Genesis Potini have been seen before on screen, steeped as they are in a relatable arc of redemption. What James Napier Robertson’s film perfects is the mindset of the troubled chess prodigy turned coach to marginalised youth, in every expressive image and atmospheric sound, and in a tone that never loses hope – just like its inspiration. Formula might seethe through the underdog story, but so does authenticity. The feature swept the recent New Zealand Film Awards for its earnest and emotional efforts, with acclaim rightfully thrown the way of star Cliff Curtis and supporting actor James Rolleston (worlds away from the work he is best known for, his titular role in the charming Boy). Read our full review. THESE FINAL HOURS When this Australian apocalyptic effort made its world premiere at the Melbourne International Film Festival in 2013, it set audiences ablaze with excitement for its fresh cinematic talent and its invigorating approach to the end of the world. Fast forward to a year later, and the flames spluttered when Zak Hilditch’s debut earned a general release, a response that doesn’t reflect the skill and style of the movie. Nathan Phillips plays against type in a story not of special deeds but of looking beyond a selfish, self-serving mindset. As his protagonist, James, journeys from nihilism to humanism upon a road trip through Perth’s suburban streets — motivated by the lost, lonely girl he decides to help — he evokes a quiet awakening not just for the character but for a new Australian classic. Read our full review. SON OF A GUN Not even the lure of Ewan McGregor enticed patrons into theatres for Julius Avery’s first feature, another film coming out of Western Australia. As a veteran criminal masterminding a jailbreak, then caught in a web of mobster manipulation, the Scottish actor rightfully commands attention — but so do his co-stars, Australia’s own Brenton Thwaites as the innocent immersed in underworld dealings, and Swedish actress Alicia Vikander as the obligatory love interest. Yes, there’s no escaping the film’s fondness for standard crime caper cliches as it navigates prison hierarchies, daring heists and dalliances with Russian gangsters, but its embrace of its genre exceeds what could’ve just been an ordinary assembly of average parts. Avery also shows a knack for set pieces and a confidence with pace and tone that keeps everything moving beyond the familiar. Read our full review. NYMPHOMANIAC Lars von Trier doesn’t make films to cater for all tastes, to be certain. Danish cinema’s enfant terrible earned the label after making many a feature considered unpalatable by broader audiences. Four hours of his work may be an endurance test for some (and that’s the short version of his latest effort); however, his frank dissection of female sexuality demands to be seen. Lust eclipses love as the driving mechanism in the experiences of Joe as she grows from a girl into a woman, ever-aware of her carnal impulses. Some chapters hit the mark better than others, just as some performances — from a cast that includes Stacy Martin and Charlotte Gainsbourg sharing the lead role, as well as Uma Thurman, Christian Slater, Shia LaBeouf and Jamie Bell — suffer the same fate, yet the end product is never anything less than engrossing. Read our full review. OUT OF THE FURNACE A blink-and-you’ll-miss-it run in Australian cinemas excuses many from failing to cross paths with the latest feature from Crazy Heart writer/director Scott Cooper. Though he again steeps his story in the struggles of those striving for something more but continually restrained by their circumstances, here he places his stumbling characters in the midst of small-town malaise, post-war apathy and generational inertia. Excellent work from Christian Bale, Casey Affleck and Woody Harrelson lies at the core of an intimate, intricate effort played out with a brooding look and feel from start to finish. Also strong is the sense of conviction that helps patch over thematic similarities with other films.
A sad fact about cozzie livs going up and up is that the amount of cash people have to spend on their family and friends shrinks and shrinks. Fortunately, Afterpay is bringing back its Pay It Forward Mystery Market from 8am on Thursday, August 14, to address what it's calling the 'generosity gap'. Centred around a standout activation tucked into Pitt Street Mall, the first 1000 Afterpay customers will score themselves a mystery box, taking home the prize inside and receiving an identical one to present to a loved one. Just don't think you'll be walking away with socks and undies. Featuring a total prize pool valued at over $200,000, there's no shortage of incredible gifts perfect for spreading the good times. Up for grabs are a $5,000 Webjet voucher, a Dyson Airwrap, or even a Nintendo Switch 2 — just imagine non-stop multiplayer fun with your best pal. Meanwhile, other much-loved brands like Ninja, CROCS, Petbarn, Red Balloon and Prezzee are getting in on the action. With Afterpay Day happening from Thursday, August 14–Sunday, August 17, the Pay It Forward Mystery Market signals the start of this bi-annual shopping event.
Baker Bleu Double Bay is under new management, if you can call it that, as the Melbourne-born bakery's partnership with renowned Chef Neil Perry and his wife Sam has come to an end. Now, Baker Bleu founders and directors Mike and Mia Russell will take over full ownership of the location. Launched in 2022, Neil had previously described Baker Bleu's output as the "best bread in Australia," becoming part of a joint venture to lead the bakery's expansion beyond Melbourne. Yet Neil and Sam will now renew focus on their neighbouring hub of restaurants — Margaret, Gran Torino and Next Door. "Sam and I are very proud of the role we've played in Baker Bleu's growth and in making the Double Bay store the success it is today. As Mike and Mia look to expand and take the business in a new direction, we've decided to part ways and focus on our restaurants in Double Bay," said Neil Perry. "We are grateful to Neil for bringing us to Sydney in 2022," adds Mike. "During this time, we created something truly magical with Neil and Sam, and we feel privileged to continue to be in the neighbourhood alongside their world-class restaurants." With all other Baker Bleu locations owned by Mike and Mia Russell — Caulfield North, Cremorne and Hawksburn — the Double Bay location now joins the fold, as well as any future stores. That also includes the soon-to-launch South Yarra location, arriving in late September. Situated in a prime position opposite the Royal Botanic Gardens, this takeaway-only outpost has moved into the former home of Baker D Chirico. Open daily, visitors can expect the full Baker Bleu range, from sourdough breads to hand-rolled bagels, alongside Market Lane coffee and pantry staples like cultured butter and small-batch jams. Baker Bleu Double Bay is open daily from 7.30am–3pm at 2 Guilfoyle Ave, Double Bay. Head to the website for more information.
One of the world's most visited multi-sensory experiences will come alive across Australia this year. After successful runs in Sydney and Auckland, Van Gogh Alive is setting off on a national Aussie tour, hitting Adelaide from Wednesday, June 23 before moving on to Brisbane, Canberra, Perth and Newcastle. The project is the brainchild of Melbourne-based Grande Exhibitions, which, for the past 15 years, has hosted immersive exhibitions and gallery experiences in over 150 cities across the world. The company also owns and operates Rome's Museo Leonardo da Vinci. A family-friendly experience, Van Gogh Alive creates the sensation of walking right into the Dutch artist's paintings. Attendees experience his world-famous work in fine detail thanks to Grande Exhibitions' state-of-the-art technology, which uses 40 high-definition projectors. A classical musical score accompanies the vibrant colours, too, as presented in cinema-quality surround sound. And, two of Van Gogh's most popular works have been transformed into new guises — with the Sunflower infinity room and the an immersive Starry Night walkthrough area also part of the experience. The Adelaide edition of Van Gogh Alive is popping up as part of the city's new winter arts festival, Illuminate Adelaide, and will take place in a purpose-built 25,000-square-foot gallery in North Adelaide. The gallery, which has been named The Grand Pavilion, will feature an exact recreation of Van Gogh's painting Cafe Terrace at Night in the foyer. Tickets are now available via Ticketek and start at $35 for an adult or $95 for a family. Details on the dates and venues for the rest of the national tour are still to come — so if you're in Brisbane, Canberra, Perth and Newcastle, watch this space. You can stay up to date with everything Van Gogh Alive by keeping an eye on the exhibition's website. Van Gogh Alive will run from Wednesday, June 23 in Adelaide's new The Grand Pavilion before moving on to Brisbane, Canberra, Perth and Newcastle. Dates beyond Adelaide are yet to be revealed — we'll update you when more details come to hand. Top image: Rebecca McMillan Photography
One part glam, one part retro and one part mixologist's fantasy, The Roosevelt is an irresistible mix that has long made it one of the eastern suburb's most in-demand cocktail destinations. From the acclaimed team behind Eau de Vie, this buzzy Macleay Street cocktail bar is at once classic and an homage to cocktail culture from the 30s and 40s, and at the same time thoroughly modern with a cocktail menu as cutting edge as they come. Glass cabinets filled with antique cocktail-making accoutrement line the room, swing is the soundtrack and the cocktail menu files its drinks into sections, so you can peruse a range of 'Refreshing', 'Fruity', 'Boozy' or 'After Dinner'. This first category includes the 'Re-Fashioned #4.2' made with Altos Reposado, jalapeño-infused mezcal, Italicus, late harvest wine, cucumber verdita and a white chocolate ice sphere, while the second, third and fourth are home to the Calamity Jane, Moon River and Roosevelt Blazer, respectively. Not content to simply cook up some of Sydney's finest and most imaginative cocktails, The Roosevelt's kitchen also turns out food well worth a look-in. Flavours of all intensity get a starring role here, with bar snacks of smokey chorizo and parmesan croquettes alongside prawn toast with signature Roosevelt sauce and Granny Smith apples. For a bigger bite, tuck in to steak diane, half a kilogram of mussels or potato dumplings. Save room for dessert, too. Specifically, the whisky-caramelised apple tart. The Roosevelt is a glam throwback bar experience that is just as good for the start of your evening as it is for the final nightcap.
Darling Harbour favourite Bungalow 8 is celebrating its 21st anniversary in style with a grand reopening following a $3-million renovation, splitting into two venues – Bungalow 8 and Bungalow Bar and Balcony. Serving King Wharf visitors since 2003, the revamped day-to-night destination, which reopened to the public on Saturday, October 19, boasts a fresh look throughout the two-level venue complete with a new rooftop dining area, tropical courtyard seating and an upstairs cocktail lounge. While this revamp is set to mark a new era of the popular day-to-night venue, Bungalow 8 will still retain its signature tropical charm that attracted celebrities and revellers alike in the early 2000s. For midday diners, the waterfront venue's updated ground floor and courtyard provide the perfect setting for casual lunches or corporate meetings. An oasis in the bustling harbour precinct, Bungalow 8 will feature an array of lush, tropical plants, cabanas with banquet seating and glittering festoon lighting. Upstairs, the newly renovated cocktail bar and balcony provide a stunning view of Darling Harbour, perfect for late-night drinks and glamorous private events. An homage to the original fitout, the bar retains its signature botanical wallpaper and lush green flooring while melding the old with the new using contemporary seating and sleek LED lighting. Don't let this polished new look fool you though — there is fun and mischief to be had at the waterfront venue once the sun sets over Darling Harbour. At night, Bungalow 8 will become a party destination, playing host to a variety of weekend events. With the addition of a custom DJ booth, curated lighting and a top-of-the-line sound system, local DJs and musicians will keep the tunes pumping late into the night every Friday and Saturday. To close out the weekend, the King Street Wharf venues will hold new Sunday Sessions from 2pm, featuring DJ sets accompanied by a live saxophonist. The venue's decor isn't the only part of Bungalow 8 getting a makeover. Curated by Executive Chef Jason Roberson, a new lunch-till-late menu will be launched, featuring crowd favourites like burgers, sandwiches and salads. The menu will also feature a wave of new dishes such as Thai chilli wings dipped in lime crème fraiche or the Bungalow club sandwich on focaccia. Those dining in large groups will find options such as a charcuterie board featuring a selection from LP's Quality Meats, or a shared snack platter with truffle fries, eggplant parmigiana 'arancini', char-grilled corn cob, and salt and pepper calamari. The menu will also include a wide selection of local and international wines and new cocktails to match Bungalow 8's playful and tropical revamp. Try Sandy's Big Night Out on Kings Street Wharf, featuring citron vodka, cream of coconut, pineapple, lemon and mint, or the Picante de la Casa with blue agave tequila, lime, agave, coriander and green tobacco. Venue Manager Teddy Hepworth says customers will have a lot to look forward to from the venue's new era. "There's a lot to love about Bungalow 8's new chapter and we're excited to swing our doors back open to show everyone! New cocktails to shake, a delicious food menu and curated spaces that compliment both our iconic location and atmosphere." Find Bungalow 8 at 3 Lime Street, Sydney CBD, or via King Wharf. For more details, go to the Bungalow 8 website.
The nose-to-tail ethos is certainly having its moment in the culinary world. And at Shoulder and Shank, not only is the sustainable, whole-beast approach to butchery in the name, but it also underpins this Neutral Bay business's mentality when it comes to meat. The organic butcher champions high quality produce and buys directly from farmers. So, expect top-quality cuts — and a wide range of them, too. Conveniently housed in The Grove, Shoulder to Shank displays its produce in window counter, so you can eye before you buy and pick that third steak from the back, those seasoned pork loins, racks of lamb and a selection of gourmet sausages. Images: Cassandra Hannagan
With the end of Summer almost in sight, it's time to make the most of those long lazy afternoons. And what better way to do that than with a few cold drinks in a relaxed, comfortable outdoor setting — AKA, a lush beer garden. So we've rounded up the best lesser-known beer gardens in the inner west, where you can soak up some rays and brews this summer (without struggling to find a place to sit).
When it comes to first dates (or any social gatherings, for that matter) it's hard to beat Sydney's inner west. There's an array of restaurants that serve multicultural cuisine, plenty of dog-friendly courtyards and quintessential Aussie pubs to choose from, plus loads of lively venues to hit up as the sun sets and the night picks up the pace. Whether you're a music lover, a cocktail connoisseur or simply after an intimate spot for a late-night pash, we've teamed up with Inner West Council to compile the best of the west — especially when you're trying to impress. Wow your date with your local bar knowledge and keep the sparks flying well into the evening.
Twenty minutes from the heart of Sydney's CBD is a lovely Mosman village with boutique stores, harbour views, busy restaurants and cosy bars — and of course, the family favourite Taronga Zoo. Mosman is known for its always-busy Military Road, relaxed cafe culture and popular nearby bathing spots like Balmoral Beach and the clothing-optional Cobblers Beach. While you should never bypass a visit to see the elephants and giraffes, Mosman is a great place to spend a leisurely Sunday afternoon browsing its independent shops and businesses. To get you started, we've teamed up with American Express to bring you a round-up of local businesses where you can shop small with your Amex Card.
Following the success of its lively Surry Hills restaurant, Li'l Darlin has launched a northern Sydney sibling, serving inventive cocktails and share plates to a whole new side of Sydney. With a formula that has been fine-tuned for over a decade, the Crows Nest bar and restaurant has brought the same playful yet affordable vibes to a different side of the bridge. Just like its inner-city senior, Li'l Darlin's second location is doing $12.50 happy hour offers. Here, you'll also find Taco Tuesday on the menu, where patrons can grab $12 margaritas and $6 tacos; Wine Down Wednesdays, with $7 wines and beers plus $12.50 tapas; and Clocked Off Thursdays, complete with $12.50 negronis, espresso martinis, Aperol spritzes and old fashioneds. Keeping things wallet-friendly is the name of the game at Li'l Darlin, aiming to provide a night out that won't break the bank. Experienced Surry Hills patrons will recognise some familiar items on the handcrafted cocktail list, like the oh-so-popular Fairy Floss Martini. New drinks have been added to the menu, however, including Gin There Done That (with gin, lychee, kiwi, prosecco and lemon), Better the Devil You Know (tequila, coconut, chilli schnapps, lime and a chilli-salted rim) and It Takes 2 to Mango (spiced rum, mango, lemon and mango sorbet). The venue is also hosting cocktail masterclasses and bottomless brunches. Li'l Darlin's Crows Nest food menu focuses on communal plates and tapas. Order a burrata and prosciutto plate, arancini balls or Peking duck pancakes for the group, or go with sizzling chilli prawns and pizzas. Located near the new Crows Nest Metro station — which was one of the inspirations for doubling Li'l Darlin's footprint — the North Sydney venue also boasts a larger space for parties and other celebrations, catering to 60–80 guests, with a further expansion planned.
If you're fond of cats big and small — fluffy, hair-free, scampering, sleeping and the like — then you'll know one golden rule: every day is better when there's meowing mousers involved. And, maybe you've secured that sweet situation thanks to your own purring pet. Or, perhaps you're just the kind of person who makes a beeline to any kitten they see, tries to become its best friend and can't focus on anything else while it's in the vicinity. Whichever fits, adding more cats to your day is something that every feline fan wants — and it's definitely a part of the Cat Protection Society of Victoria's new dream gig. It's a volunteer job, spanning a three-month stint in Melbourne, but it'll 100-percent bring kittens your way. The role: CPSV's official 'cat cuddler'. Yes, that's really what it's called. Obviously, what it entails is rather self-explanatory — because the lucky person who scores the position will be tasked with providing love, affection and enrichment to the cats and kittens in the society's care as they wait to be adopted. The word you're looking for? "Awwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww". This is the organisation that offered cat cuddling gift vouchers as Christmas gifts last year, after all — but this is even cuter. The caveats: you'll need to be in Melbourne to take the gig, and you'll need to have a minimum of three hours per week — on one weekday each week, and during normal operating hours — to head to CPSV's adoption centre to give its kitties all those snuggles. If that sounds like you — or if you've got a pussy-loving pal that you know would love it — all applicants have until Friday, June 4 to apply to temporarily join the society's team of around 40 volunteers. To throw your name in the ring, you'll want to head to the CPSV website and upload a short video (up to two minutes max) that explains why you should be the official Cat Protection Society Cat Cuddler, and also complete the online application form. To apply for the Cat Protection Society of Victoria's 'cat cuddler' position before Friday, June 4, head to the organisation's website.
While Sydney is not exactly short on options for midweek fun and frivolity, a surprising new entrant has joined the city's lineup of hump day deal masters, tempting you off the couch and out of the house. Announced today, the Sydney Opera House has kickstarted a new Wednesday night offering, featuring a weekly changing swag of two-for-one ticket deals, and some tidy food and drink specials to match. Each week's theatre and event deals will remain under wraps until the Tuesday night, riffing on similar last-minute ticket programs offered by the likes of London's West End theatre set and on Broadway in New York. There'll be specials on shows presented by the Sydney Opera House and its resident companies, eats and drinks from onsite venues like Opera Kitchen and Portside Sydney, and even cheap parking at the Sydney Opera House Wilson Carpark. To give you a hint of what to expect, this Wednesday's lineup could see you score two-for-one tickets to Sydney Theatre Company's hilarious political farce Accidental Death of an Anarchist, for example, or a production of Molière's comedy of manners The Misanthrope. There will also be two-for-one specials on Opera Kitchen's crispy chicken, matched with a wine or Sydney Lager. While the deal itself is great, the accompanying campaign name and video are a little cringeworthy. The Sydney Opera House has dubbed it Make Wednesday Great Again, a 'satirical' riff on Donald Trump's 2016 campaign slogan (which was used by Ronald Reagan in 1980, too). It feels a little too soon to turn the presidential campaign into a marketing exercise — but, still, if it means feasting on theatre for less, this hump day treat is sure to find its fair share of fans. The two-for-one Wednesday deals will be made available to email subscribers each Tuesday night at 5pm. To sign up, head to the Sydney Opera House website. Image: Letícia Almeida
Just like Australian television's 80s golden couple Scott and Charlene — aka Jason Donovan and Kylie Minogue — everyone heads back to Ramsay Street at some point. It's true of viewers who tuned in to watch Neighbours wrap up its 37-year run earlier in 2022, and it's now true about the TV show itself, too. After that big star-studded farewell midyear, complete with the return of Donovan, Minogue and fellow big-name past stars Margot Robbie and Guy Pearce, the Australian soap opera will now make a comeback in 2023. Because everybody needs more Neighbours, Amazon is behind the revival via its free, ad-supported Amazon Freevee streaming service (which was formerly known as IMDb TV). That's where the series will air in the UK and US from the second half of next year. But it'll be available via Network Ten and Prime Video in Australia, and on the latter in New Zealand as well. 🚨 Breaking News from Erinsborough! 🚨 Neighbours will return for a brand-new series next year exclusively on @AmazonFreevee, alongside thousands of episodes from previous seasons to stream as you please. 🎉 pic.twitter.com/1Qq2fIPgog — Neighbours (@neighbours) November 17, 2022 Amazon will pick up the show after more than 9000 past episodes, and also stream thousands of those instalments from prior seasons before the new season premieres. While Neighbours previously ran five days a week — helping notch up that hefty number of eps — whether the revival will do the same hasn't yet been confirmed, although Amazon's announcement does note that it'll be a "continuation of the long-running daily drama series". Something that is definitely locked in: the return of Stefan Dennis as Paul Robinson, Alan Fletcher as Karl Kennedy, Jackie Woodburne as Susan Kennedy and Ryan Moloney as Toadie Rebecchi. The fan favourites will all star in the new Neighbours, in the show's first casting announcement. Whether any fellow past cast members will make a comeback and who any knew faces will be also hasn't been revealed as yet. "Neighbours is a unique series with a powerful connection with its fans across the world. We cherish the show and all those who have been part of its incredible story over many decades, so we are thrilled that we have found a new home with Amazon Freevee. Thanks to the innovative Amazon Freevee platform, many classic episodes will be available to fans, and Neighbours will go back into full production in Australia early next year, providing our fans with new episodes," said Jennifer Mullin, global CEO of Neighbours' production company Fremantle. "This partnership with Amazon Freevee marks an exciting new chapter, and we look forward to collaborating with them, along with our long-term and valued partner in Australia, Network 10." Neighbours was originally cancelled after being dropped by its UK network, Channel 5, leaving local backer Network Ten without enough funding to continue the series. As seen in the show's swansong, the list of well-known faces who've graced the series since its 1985 debut is hefty, all playing characters either living in or connected to the show's cul-de-sac in the fictitious Melbourne suburb of Erinsborough. As well as Minogue, Donovan and Pearce, 80s-era Neighbours boasted a four-episode stint from Russell Crowe. In the 90s, Natalie Imbruglia got her start there. Liam Hemsworth was a regular in the 00s, as was Robbie, and Chris Hemsworth popped up in one 2002 episode before moving over to rival Aussie soap Home and Away. Also just as sizeable: the show's 37 years of twists, amnesia spells, shock returns from the dead, and other Ramsay and Robinson family dramas. Indeed, it's fitting that Neighbours itself is being resurrected after being killed off. And yes, as Amazon's announcement video shows, the iconic Neighbours theme tune remains part of the series — because good Neighbours songs become good friends, naturally. Neighbours will return for a new season in 2023, airing via Network Ten and Prime Video in Australia, Prime Video in New Zealand, and Amazon Freevee in the UK and US. Images: Fremantle.
Everyone has one, or several: a TV show you just keep going back to no matter how many times you've seen it before. Whatever series that is for you, you're probably always at some stage of rewatching it — and when you finish it this time, you'll start working your way through it again because of course you will. These are our soul-replenishing comfort shows, and they usually share a few traits. Sitcoms are particularly easy to rewatch over and over. Comedies with not only a big sense of humour but also a big heart are, too. Is your go-to series filled with characters supporting each other, overcoming everyday obstacles and helping each other be their absolute best selves? Then that fits the bill as well. Basically, the shows we keep gravitating back towards are the ones Marie Kondo would approve of. Yes, they definitely spark joy, and do so again and again. Watching them feels like catching up with old friends, they always brighten your day and they're there for you when times are tough. Here are our ten picks for sitcoms that feel like the warmest of hug — and that you can stream right now. BROOKLYN NINE-NINE Long-running shows become a comforting part of our routines, giving us something to look forward to with each new episode — and in the case of supremely warm-hearted comedies, giving us all plenty of feel-good laughs as well. Brooklyn Nine-Nine is one such series. It came to an end in 2022 with its eighth season, but it'll always live on in streaming queues. Heart and laughs: that's been a noice, toit and cool cool cool formula for the Andy Samberg (Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse)-starring cop-focused sitcom over the years. "Title of your sex tape" jokes, Die Hard nods and Halloween heists have all worked well, too. And so have the multi-layered, always-supportive bonds between Jake Peralta (Samberg), his best friend and fellow detective Charles Boyle (Joe Lo Truglio, Monsters at Work), and their other colleagues Amy Santiago (Melissa Fumero, Velma), Rosa Diaz (Stephanie Beatriz, Twisted Metal), Terry Jeffords (Terry Crews, Craig of the Creek) and Raymond Holt (the late, great Andre Braugher, She Said) — and the bumbling but always-affable Hitchcock (Dirk Blocker, Doogie Kamealoha, MD) and Scully (Joel McKinnon Miller, Station 19). In its final season, as it geared up to say goodbye, Brooklyn Nine-Nine also found a smart and still amusing way to reckon with being a comedy about police officers in America today. Brooklyn Nine-Nine streams via Netflix. SCHITT'S CREEK The idea behind Schitt's Creek is immensely straightforward, and also incredibly obvious. If one of the obscenely wealthy families that monopolises all those trashy reality TV shows was suddenly forced to live without their money, like the rest of us, how would they cope? If you're thinking "not well", you're right. If you're certain that seeing the results would be amusing, you're on the money again. As envisaged by father-son duo — and the program's stars — Eugene (Human Resources) and Dan Levy (Sex Education), that's the scenario the Rose crew finds itself in, including moving to the titular town that it happens to own as a last resort. Yes, as the name gives away, they're in a sticky situation. The adjustment process isn't easy, but it is very, very funny, immensely feel-good and ridiculously quotable, and remained that way for the show's entire six-season run before wrapping up in 2020. And, although plenty of other credits on her resume have made this plain (such as Best in Show, A Mighty Wind, Waiting for Guffman and For Your Consideration, all also with Eugene Levy), the great Catherine O'Hara (Pain Hustlers) is an absolute comedy powerhouse as the Rose family matriarch. She deservedly has both an Emmy and a Golden Globe for her performance here — and for her glorious accent work — too. Also stellar: Annie Murphy (Fingernails) as socialite daughter Alexis. Schitt's Creek streams via Netflix. PARKS AND RECREATION She's the government worker we all wish could be in charge of, well, absolutely everything — and she's the fictional Indiana city of Pawnee's most devoted employee and biggest fan. We're talking, of course, about Leslie Knope, Amy Poehler's (Moxie) super-passionate, waffle-loving character in iconic sitcom Parks and Recreation. Willing to work hard in any situation and always ready to lean upon her friends and co-workers, Leslie knows how to handle almost anything. In one particular fifth-season episode of the Nick Offerman (Dumb Money)-, Rashida Jones (Silo)-, Aziz Ansari (Master of None)-, Chris Pratt (Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3)-, Aubrey Plaza (Scott Pilgrim Takes Off)-, Adam Scott (Party Down)- and Rob Lowe (Unstable)-costarring series, that also includes grappling with a pandemic. Created by The Office's Greg Daniels and Brooklyn Nine-Nine's Michael Schur, Parks and Recreation may have only come to the end of its seven-season run back in 2015, but the sitcom has been an instant classic from the get-go for one reason: focusing on relatable characters, the minutiae of their lives and the time working in local government, workplace-based comedy has never felt more kind-hearted, or — thanks to the show's penchant for letting its main players talk directly to the camera — so inclusive. Parks and Recreation streams via Stan and Binge. TED LASSO A sports-centric sitcom that was like a big warm hug from the get-go, Ted Lasso is a cheerleader for comedies that focus on nice and caring people doing nice and caring things. Like the other shows on this list, it celebrates folks supporting and being there for each other, and the bonds that spring between them — and not just to an entertaining but to a soul-replenishing degree. As played by Jason Sudeikis (Booksmart), the series' namesake is almost all positivity, almost all the time. And, he keeps that up in the face of quite the challenges. A small-time US college football coach, he scored an unlikely job as manager of British soccer team AFC Richmond in the show's first season, a job that came with struggles. Instantly, the ravenous media wrote him off. The club was also hardly doing its best, owner Rebecca (Hannah Waddingham, Hocus Pocus 2) had just taken over the organisation as part of her divorce settlement, and veteran champion Roy Kent (Brett Goldstein, Thor: Love and Thunder) and reigning hotshot Jamie Tartt (Phil Dunster, The Devil's Hour) refused to get along. Ted's upbeat attitude does wonders, though, in one of the best new sitcoms of the 2020s. You definitely don't need to love soccer or even sport to fall for this show's ongoing charms, to adore its heartwarming determination to value banding together and looking on the bright side, and to love its depiction of both male tenderness and supportive female friendships. Ted Lasso streams via Apple TV+. Read our full review of season two and season three, plus our interview with Brendan Hunt. WELLINGTON PARANORMAL Three of the best comedic actors on TV in recent years all starred in New Zealand-made sitcom Wellington Paranormal. Playing Officer O'Leary, Officer Minogue and Sergeant Maaka, Karen O'Leary (Red, White & Brass), Mike Minogue (My Life Is Murder) and Maaka Pohatu (Our Flag Means Death) spit out devastatingly hilarious deadpan line readings. They need to in this mockumentary series, which follows a squad of Wellington cops who investigate the supernatural — as the show's title so succinctly explains — but every episode across its four seasons demonstrated just how perfect these three actors are for their job. As the team tackle cases of the paranormal variety, they also often look into matters of the silly and always amusing kind as well, to delightful results. Whatever comes this crew's way, hearty laughs always ensue. A spinoff from Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement's excellent 2014 movie What We Do in the Shadows — well, one of the film's spinoffs, given that the very funny US TV series also called What We Do in the Shadows also exists — Wellington Paranormal aces its concept again and again. It's basically a low-key, comedic, NZ-based version of The X-Files, it's glorious, and former NZ Prime Minster Jacinda Ardern's partner Clarke Gayford has even made an appearance. Also, it now boasts a companion podcast. Wellington Paranormal streams via SBS On Demand. LOS ESPOOKYS It took some time for the delight that is Los Espookys to initially reach Australian screens, arriving two years after it debuted in the US — and it'll take you less than six hours to binge its two seasons, which you'll likely do in no more than two sittings. This HBO comedy has proven both worth the wait and worth devouring as quickly as possible. The setup: horror aficionado Renaldo (Bernardo Velasco, Noise) wants to turn his obsession into his profession, so he starts staging eerie scenarios for paying customers. That involves enlisting his best friend Andrés (Julio Torres, Problemista), pal Úrsula (Cassandra Ciangherotti, Thursday's Widows) and the latter's sister Tati (Ana Fabrega, Father of the Bride) to help, and doing everything they can to get spooky. Torres and Fabrega co-created the show with Portlandia and Saturday Night Live's Fred Armisen, who also pops up as Renaldo's parking valet uncle. This mostly Spanish-language series only uses its biggest name sparingly, however, because its key cast members own every moment. Following the titular group's exploits as they attempt to ply their trade, and to weave it into their otherwise chaotic lives, Los Espookys always manages to be both sidesplittingly hilarious and so meticulous in its horror references that it's almost uncanny. There's also nothing on-screen quite like it. Los Espookys streams via Binge. OUR FLAG MEANS DEATH First dropping anchor with its debut season in 2022, and finding a mooring among the best new series that the year had to offer, Our Flag Means Death's premise has always glinted as brightly as its impressive cast (not just Uproar's Rhys Darby and Thor: Love and Thunder's Taika Waititi, but also Bloods' Samson Kayo, Creation Stories' Ewen Bremner, Bank of Dave's Joel Fry, Game of Thrones' Kristian Nairn, Hello Tomorrow!'s Matthew Maher, Loot's Nat Faxon, The Sex Lives of College Girls' Vico Ortiz and The Batman's Con O'Neill for starters). It follows Darby as self-styled 'gentleman pirate' Stede Bonnet. Born to a life of privilege, he felt that seafaring and swashbuckling was his calling, leaving his life on land behind to hop on a ship — details that all spring from reality. Creator David Jenkins (People of Earth) isn't interested in telling the exact IRL tale, however. Consider those basics merely Our Flag Means Death's departure point. On-screen, Stede gets caught up in both a workplace comedy and a boatmance. The first springs from his certainty that there has to be a nicer way to glide through a pirate existence, and the second from his blossoming feelings for feared marauder Edward Teach (Waititi), aka Blackbeard. So, Stede and Ed find love in a buccaneering place, but also feel splashes of uncertainty about what their relationship means. Life might prove choppy for Our Flag Means Death's characters, but there's always a sense of camaraderie about this series — and it's been sweet sailing for viewers across two seasons. Our Flag Means Death streams via Binge. Read our full review of season one and season two. THE OFFICE You're working. It's an ordinary day. You've been doing your usual tasks and, in a completely unremarkable incident, you happen to notice a stapler — whether you're in the office or doing the nine-to-five grind at home. If your first thought is "hmmm, I bet I could set that in a bowl of jelly", then you're obviously a fan of The Office. One of the rare instances where a TV remake is better than the original — it is based on the UK series of the same name, after all — this sitcom about paper company employees is far more amusing than it really has any right to be. In fact, it's downright side-splitting; it nails workplace relationships and minutiae in such a precise, knowing and relatable way that it sometimes feels uncanny (every office has a Creed, after all); and it's immensely easy to just keep rewatching. Of course, that's what you get when you round up Steve Carell (Asteroid City), John Krasinski (Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan), Jenna Fischer (Splitting Up Together), Rainn Wilson (Lessons in Chemistry), Mindy Kaling (The Morning Show), Ed Helms (Family Switch), Ellie Kemper (Happiness for Beginners) and Craig Robinson (Killing It) in the same show, and let all of them break out their comedic best. An Australian version is on the way, and there's talk of rebooting the OG, but there's no topping this cast. The Office streams via Stan, Prime Video and Binge. BOB'S BURGERS We've all grown up watching animated sitcoms about families, because The Flintstones, The Jetsons, The Simpsons, Family Guy, King of the Hill, American Dad and Rick and Morty all exist. Bob's Burgers has been on the list as well for over a decade now, and it does what plenty of its counterparts also do — focusing on a family and their usual ebbs and flows, mainly — while also finding a tone that's sweet, goofy, cute, funny and filled with top-notch food puns. An animated TV series can definitely make you feel hungry, as this show manages all the time. It also enjoys exploring the eclectic and eccentric personalities of the Belcher clan, including burger-cooking father Bob (voiced H Jon Benjamin, Wet Hot American Summer: Ten Years Later), his wife Linda (John Roberts, Gravity Falls), and children Tina (Dan Mintz, Adventure Time), Gene (Eugene Mirman, Aqua Teen Hunger Force) and Louise (Kristen Schaal, Flight of the Conchords). You do have to come to terms with the fact that Bob's voice is also Archer's voice — if you also watch fellow animated series Archer, that is — but you'll also get to enjoy the series' fabulous musical numbers, and the warmth that stems from more than just cooking up patties in a burger joint. Plus, the big-screen Bob's Burgers outing is also ace. Bob's Burgers streams via Disney+. THE GOOD PLACE Some shows are just so engaging and entertaining — so smart and heartfelt and hilarious all at the same time, too — that they just make you exclaim "holy forking shirtballs!" The Good Place achieves all of that, and easily. It's the show that found plenty of jokes around the kind of swearing you're forced to do in its titular spot, given that busting out the real versions of those words isn't really heaven's vibe. Because nothing in this life lasts forever, including beloved sitcoms about the afterlife stretching on into eternity, the existential comedy only ran for four seasons. They all followed the adventures of the very dead Eleanor (Kristen Bell, The People We Hate at the Wedding), Chidi (William Jackson Harper, Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania), Tahani (Jameela Jamil, Poker Face) and Jason (Manny Jacinto, Top Gun: Maverick), plus demon Michael (Ted Danson, Mr Mayor) and "not a person" Janet (D'Arcy Carden, Barry), and they all kept throwing delightful surprises our way. One of the spectacular things about rewatching this clever, creative and side-splitting mix of humour, philosophy and people actively trying to embrace their best rather than worst impulses is picking up all the breadcrumbs left along the way — and its all-round warm and wise approach thanks to Parks and Recreation, The Office and Brooklyn Nine-Nine's Michael Schur (yes, him again), of course. The Good Place streams via Netflix.
If you're after authentic dumplings, you go to Haymarket. And similarly, if you want real, bona fide Vietnamese food, you head to Cabramatta. The suburb has the largest concentration of Vietnamese in the state, and thus also has some of the best Vietnamese food in the state, making a trip to Cabra well worth it. The footpaths on John Street are lined with shops hawking fundamental ingredients for the cuisine, alongside a slew of restaurants that specialise in a particular dish, or simply Vietnamese cuisine as a whole. No need to hunt down reviews, just head down, pick a spot and hope for the best. It usually works out. Image: @tom_cyh / Instagram.
Sneaky Possum may be the new kid on Abercrombie Street, but the multi-purpose venue has already become a local haunt for many. The space does all things at once, seamlessly acting as a cafe, bar and restaurant throughout the day and night. The back dining room hosts groups hanging over a few bevs just as often as it does diners, with the casual space boasting custom-built timber booths, hanging greenery and large murals. Along the way, pass by modern pinball machines and retro arcade games. The front cafe doubles as a bar throughout the day, with patrons drinking their flat whites alongside punters enjoying a cheeky arvo craft brew, wine on tap or cocktail from their antique glassware. The current cocktail list includes a particularly solid lemon myrtle margarita ($20) and a spiced rum espresso martini ($22) that is a go-to for late night revellers but serves equally well as a midday pick-me-up. The bar looks over the open kitchen where head chef Briony Bradford shows off her culinary muscles, which really shine for dinner service. For starters, the snapper ceviche ($22) uses seasonal finger lime in a punchy yet delicate dish, with the avocado creme, bright fish roe and edible flowers giving it a bit of decadence. The crispy pork belly ($27) is our favourite on the menu and could easily be eaten as a main — the meaty scallop it's served with is a proper pairing for the tender pork belly. The dish is topped with shaved and dehydrated cauliflower, spinach purée and burnt butter jus, with each component complementing the other. If you do still dig into mains, share the duck breast ($40), which is roasted in paperbark and is accompanied by a duck sausage that is unlike any we've had previously — the average idea of sausage sizzles does not do this one justice. It's all creatively topped with thinly-shaved fresh pumpkin that lightens the dish. It's a real pleasure to eat. Bradford clearly knows what she's doing when it comes to meat, with the roasted lamb rump ($36) served true to medium rare and accompanied by on-the-vine roasted tomatoes. Even the bar snacks are far from average, like the goats' cheese crackers topped with dehydrated olives ($4). You can easily spend the entire night at the bar, snacking on charcuterie and cheese plates or just some warm Sonoma bread, served with butter and rock salt. It's easy to tell Bradford puts love into her dishes and you'll have to resist the temptation to lick the plate more than once. Images: Katje Ford.
Those who are familiar with the Zetland log cabin-style eatery will be delighted to hear that it has finally made its way to the north shore, taking up residence in the dining strip of Willoughby Road. In its own words, the second outpost is 'more restaurant like', with the bright, airy interior once again brought to life by Otto Design Interiors. If you're craving a simple (but delicious) meal at a reasonable price, you'll want to make tracks here. Practically all bases are covered with offerings of seafood, salads, steaks, burgers, tacos and poke bowls on the menu. Standouts include the classic fish and chips, fish pie and the Ora King salmon. Featuring a concise list of mostly Australian wines and beers, as well as a solid children's menu, it's a great spot for a family meal out.
Radiohead, as a rule, are protective of their catalogue. The band's caution about how their songs are reinterpreted is well-documented — which makes Berlin-based Australian pianist Josh Cohen something of an anomaly. Cohen has been given the band's official blessing to perform their music around the world and has released two band-endorsed solo piano songbooks through Faber Music. This May, he brings the live iteration of that project — Radiohead for Solo Piano II — to City Recital Hall for one night only. An improviser at heart who threads classical, jazz, and ambient electronic together, Cohen has spent the last few years building one of the more inventive piano catalogues on the internet. His Radiohead arrangements alone have crossed more than 10 million views on YouTube, and the broader project is closer to translation than cover: the originals are pulled apart and rebuilt, each performance shaped by improvisation in the moment. The live show pairs Cohen's playing with a custom-built visual installation that unfolds in real time alongside him, which means no two performances land in quite the same place. The effect is a long way from a polite recital — closer to the looseness of a live electronic set, with songs shifting in length, key and texture as he plays. Cohen's debut album, Weird Time Signature, landed in 2023, and the Radiohead project remains the engine of his live work. For anyone who has ever sat with Radiohead's stranger corners and wondered what the songs themselves might do in different hands, this is the closest you're likely to get to an answer. Radiohead for Solo Piano II is at City Recital Hall on Saturday, May 23. Book your tickets here. Image Credit: Supplied This article was produced in partnership with the City Recital Hall
From Etymon Projects, the team behind the north shore's popular Loulou Bistro, Boulangerie & Traiteur, comes an elegant venue in an art deco building within Sydney's CBD. Much like its counterpart north of the bridge, The Charles Grand Brasserie & Bar folds many different types of establishments into one multi-faceted one-stop shop. This time, the King Street spot is part-European brasserie, part-laidback café and part-bar. "The Charles celebrates the charm of old-school hospitality without the stuffiness," says The Charles Grand's Director of Culinary Sebastien Lutaud. "The grand brasserie experience is elegant and decadent, but with ambience too. A busy, open kitchen; duck press on the pass; tableside saucing and carving; and roving dessert trolleys create a wonderful sense of theatre that's reminiscent of the warm and welcoming brasseries of Europe." Taking from the tradition of many of Europe's longstanding brasseries, the restaurant boasts two must-try house specialities. The first is a MBS9+ black oak wagyu rump cap ($82), while the other is the classic French Canard à la Presse ($170), both of which are designed to be shared. The whole dry-aged Maremma roasted and dressed duck used in the Canard à la Presse is prepared in a dedicated duck and poultry room which allows The Charles' chefs to dry-age 100 birds at a time, for ten days each. From there, they're roasted until they have a perfectly crispy skin. Marinated octopus ($24) and steak and anchovy tartare ($34) are highlights from the entree menu, alongside a must for any luxurious French spot — caviar service ($140–420). As for the mains, you can opt for a grand schnitzel topped with salted roe ($55), crayfish vol-au-vent ($62), or an aged rack of lamb ribs ($58) just to name a few. "Refined, elegant food created using predominantly French techniques is how I've approached this menu. We hero the superb produce by serving it simply with a delicious sauce or consommé poured tableside, for example, rather than with overly complex or fussy garnishes," says executive Chef Billy Hannigan who will be flexing his classic French culinary training in the kitchen. There's a collection of more than 600 both French and Australian wines to sort through, with up to 50 available by the glass for those that like to sample throughout the night. Over at the bar, things are a bit more casual. Opening from 7am each day, city-dwellers and CBD workers can come in for an espresso and a freshly baked croissant ($6), crumpet ($6) or pastry. From 11am, the menu shifts to approachable French and European-inspired dining, ranging from pork crackling ($9) and chicken liver parfait ($22) through to flat-iron steak ($68) and butter lettuce salads ($14). Etymon Projects enlisted to H&E Architects, in collaboration with COX to create a venue that celebrates its building's historic art deco design with flourishes of black nero marble and brass. The venue will provide Sydneysiders with the opportunity to set into a decedent European holiday, any time of day, with both venues to remain open until midnight. Top image: Steven Woodburn
UPDATE: JANUARY 15, 2019 — Summer in Sydney means many things — beach hangs, ocean pool swims, searing heat — one of them being the abundance of sweet frozen treats. And Devon has just launched another one for you to put on high rotation: bubble tea sundaes. Tapioca pearls, soft serve, taro and bubur cha-cha combine in this limited-edition dessert. Flavours include Matcha Bubble Tea, with roasted green tea, herbal glass jelly and sweet red bean and cheese foam, and the Bobba Gump, with milk tea soft serve, salted milk foam and brownie soil. All are served with a waffle cone and will set you back $10 a pop. They're available at Devon Barangaroo and North Sydney (not Surry Hills) from now until Thursday, February 28. When the foodie gods close a door, they often open a window. Such is the case with Devon on Danks. After two years of serving up 63-degree eggs and 8am soft serve sundaes, the beloved Waterloo café — a spinoff of Devon Cafe in Surry Hills — ceased service in 2016. That's the bad news. The good news is that they added a new member to the Devon family, in Barangaroo. Devon's second digs are located on the corner of Mercantile Walk and Scotch Row at one of Sydney's new food hubs, The Streets of Barangaroo. Of course, it's far from the first big gastronomic get — Anason, Belles Hot Chicken, Banksii, Ume Burger and Rabbit Hole are just a few vendors that are trading in the precinct. Now before you start fretting, that doesn't mean the cafe has ditched its signature menu items — the soft serve with fries and miso salmon with a 63-degree egg remain on the menu. Rather, it's added a bunch of new strings to their bow, including Asian-style tapas and Japanese katsu sandwiches. Bubble tea sundae image: @wheresmy_dang_food.
For more than two decades, every Australian kid was familiar with Aerobics Oz Style. It's the show that kept TV-loving children from their early-morning cartoon fix — airing each day before Cheez TV and its predecessors started. Back then, between 1982–2005, the sight of leotards, tights and leg warmers probably brought a frown to your face. Now, while we're all trying to keep active in isolation, it's reason to smile. Bust out your best retro workout outfit and get ready to stretch, bend, step and tone — because Network Ten has just dropped a heap of old-school episodes on its free streaming platform. Over at 10Play, 15 90s-era instalments of Aerobics Oz Style are now available to watch (complete with 90s-era soundtracks). The bulk were first aired in February 1995; however you can also get sweaty to episodes from April and October 1996, December 1997 and February 1998 as well. Most of the available episodes were filmed in a studio, so prepare not only for some thoroughly 90s activewear fashions, but also for pastel-heavy set design from the period. If you're eager to get a glimpse of Sydney from more than 20 years ago, though, three of the episodes were shot at various outdoor locations around town — so you can get fit and check out the scenery. Need an amusing reminder of what you're in for? In 1998, TISM satirised the show in the music video for their single 'Whatareya?', which you can watch below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GiHdpAVIHgo To sweat your way through 15 retro episodes of Aerobics Oz Style, head to 10Play.
If Swillhouse can nail anything, it's a city-best moody underground venue — and the hospo crew's impressive CBD bar The Caterpillar Club is just that. From the team behind beloved subterranean standouts Frankie's (RIP), Restaurant Hubert and Shady Pines (plus Le Foote and Alberto's Lounge) the inner-city haunt is serving up sultry tunes, exceptional service and incredible cocktails right by Martin Place. Discover the venue's hidden entryway tucked away among office buildings and convenience stores on Pitt Street, then descend down the stairwell to find the expansive new walk-in-only record bar in all of its glory. On arrival you'll find an ultra-long bar backed by shelves filled with more than 10,00 records — one of the biggest private collections in the country. At the end of the bar, there's a DJ spinning selections from the collection, before the space opens up into a lounge area with larger tables, romantic red booths and a stage for live bands. Every time you head in, you can expect either one of the city's top tastemakers on the decks or a tight-knit band jamming out. A genre-less list of performers is known to pop up with an emphasis on jazzier sounds. Leading the kitchen is culinary superstar Isobel Little (ex-LP's Quality Meats), who's crafted a casual but sophisticated selection. The cheeseburger is one of Sydney's best, standing tall while remaining perfectly soft and juicy. There's also a tuna melt perfect for a late-night feed and bite-sized lettuce leaves topped with crab and avocado. The bartenders here are happy to whip up your favourite standard, but there are a few delightful Caterpillar Club creations to dive into. The cherry Manhattan is a particular highlight — so good you'll struggle to savour it for longer than a few sips. The final element of The Caterpillar Club is the hidden speakeasy. Found through a discrete door out the back, The Bamboo Room serves as a secret cocktail den for those in the know, reviving memories of Frankie's famous Fun Room. And, in Frankie's and Shady Pines style, the specialty here is freshly squeezed grapefruit juice paired with vodka or gin and a salt rim. The venue not only serves as another exciting place to get a drink and listen to good music in Sydney, but also adds to the growing number of venues reviving the city's status as a late-night destination. Licensed until 5am, The Caterpillar Club keeps the martinis flowing, vinyl spinning and kitchen open all the way until 3am Sunday–Thursday, and 4am Friday–Saturday. Images: Andrea Veltom
It has been 11 art-filled years since Brisbane's Gallery of Modern Art first opened its doors, and the creative riverside hub just keeps going from strength to strength. As unveiled on Friday, July 13, GOMA is now home to an illuminating new permanent work: Night Life, a brand light installation by artist James Turrell. You might be familiar with the Arizona-based artist's piees if you've been to Mona or the National Gallery of Australia (NGA). He's the one behind the sky-centred installations at both galleries — at Mona, the gazebo-like Armana lights up at sunrise and sunset each day, and at the NGA in Canberra, Within without acts as an outdoor viewing chamber to enhance your view of the sky. All up, Turrell has created 80 'skyspaces' like these around the world. Brisbane's Turrell piece isn't a standalone structure like these other two Australian works. Instead, Night Life lights up GOMA's eastern and southern white façades from within the building, using an 88-minute-long shifting pattern of vibrant coloured light developed by Turrell especially for the location. GOMA director Chris Saines describes it as "a permanent solid light installation that is a deeply immersive field of slowly changing colour." When illuminated — which it will be from sunset to midnight each and every night from this point onwards — the gallery is visible from across the river and around South Bank's cultural precinct. Commissioned for GOMA's tenth anniversary, while Night Life is a new addition, it actually ties into the gallery's history. As Saines explains, "during the development of GOMA, lead architects Kerry Clare, Lindsay Clare and James Jones envisaged an artist-illuminated 'white box' on the gallery's main pedestrian approaches. More than a decade on, Turrell's architectural light installation realises the potential of GOMA's white box façade, and completes a major aspect of the architects' original design intention." Images: James Turrell's architectural light installation at Brisbane's Gallery of Modern Art. Photograph: Natasha Harth, QAGOMA. By Lauren Vadnjal and Sarah Ward.
Neil and Sam Perry have become synonymous with Sydney's sun-soaked Double Bay. And their intimate understanding of the suburb and the community means they know when things are working well and when they are not. Armed with that knowledge, they have just announced plans to shake things up. The Perrys will open Pizzeria Sotto to replace Bar Torino, which currently trades in the basement site below big sister Gran Torino. The new venue will be a relaxed, neighbourhood-focused joint, showcasing Roman-style thin-crust pizza and great drinks featuring Italian wines, spritzes and classic cocktails. "Bar Torino hasn't found the rhythm we hoped for, so rather than hold onto something that isn't quite landing, now feels like the right time to reset and move in a different direction — one that complements Gran Torino, and creates three levels of food, drink and fun," says Perry. The venue will be slightly reworked to create a space suited to everything from quick midweek lunches to relaxed weekend dinners. Alongside the Roman-style pizza, also known as scrocchiarella or pinsa, made with quality, seasonal ingredients, you can expect menu items like antipasti, salads, tiramisu and gelato cones. "There's an appetite for great pizza in Sydney right now, and Pizzeria Sotto will lean into this. By going down the thin-crust route, we feel we are doing something new in Double Bay. It's about creating a place people can drop into any night of the week with family and friends. Casual, generous, and built around the kind of food and atmosphere that keeps people coming back," says Perry. "We really want Pizzeria Sotto to be the fun, casual little sister restaurant of Gran Torino, and I think this move will achieve that." Images: Yusuke Oba. Bar Torino will pour last drinks on Saturday, May 23, with Pizzeria Sotto slated to open on Wednesday, June 3. Like what you see? Subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter to get stories just like these straight to your inbox.
Dukes Coffee Roasters has been one of Melbourne's best coffee roasters since 2008, and we're lucky enough to have our own outpost down at Barangaroo. The blond timber and smooth curves here mimic those of Dukes' Melbourne store, though this space is bigger, lighter, and brighter than its southern sibling. Brewing from 7.30am every weekday, the cafe brews Dukes' full range of coffee black, with milk or as a filter. Alongside that, it has a tidy selection of sandwiches, pastries and sweet treats. Better yet, the team is committed to supporting both the planet and every one of the communities involved in the coffee's production. Each bag of coffee beans has been ethically traded and can be traced right back to the farm from which it came. Dukes is not the Barangaroo precinct's first Melbourne blow-in, joining fellow southerners Belles Hot Chicken and Shortstop Donuts.
Las Palmas has landed, and it's bringing the sun-soaked, free-spirited and vibrant energy of the Mexican coastline to Manly's West Esplanade. The garden bar and taqueria, just steps away from Manly Wharf and accessible via a 15-minute ferry from the CBD, is set to become a go-to destination for tasty tacos, many margaritas, live music and good vibes. This opening marks the next phase of The Boathouse Group's waterfront evolution in Manly, following the success of Manly Pavilion and The Espy. With Las Palmas, the group continues to establish the West Esplanade as one of Sydney's most exciting and up-and-coming precincts for food and entertainment. Executive Chef Victor Uriegas has created a menu, inspired by Baja Sur, Jalisco, Guerrero and Oaxaca, designed for laid-back communal dining. Start fresh with snapper ceviche with jalapeño and coconut, and tuna tostadas with avocado and salsa macha, and snack on guacamole and grilled corn while you contemplate what to order next. With tacos central to the menu, it's imperative you try a few: perhaps sample the prawn with chipotle crema, the beer-battered cauliflower with Mexican slaw and pico de gallo, and the beef short rib version with dark beer salsa and chipotle mayo. With a few servings of slow-cooked pork nachos, a grilled tuna Caesar salad and a couple of King Prawns with chipotle herb butter for the table, you'll be set for the night. "Las Palmas celebrates the flavours, energy and warmth of coastal Mexico. It's fun, approachable, and designed for connection, the kind of place you can drop in for tacos and stay long after sunset," says Uriegas. Drinks are certainly no afterthought at the new open-air venue, which sits beneath a canopy of palms, decked out in handcrafted materials including cane, clay and thatch, with tiled tables and textured banquettes. Developed with Pernod Ricard, the bar showcases premium tequilas and mezcals. "At Pernod Ricard, we're always looking to collaborate with partners who share our commitment to craftsmanship and great experiences. We're excited to be working on a bespoke collaboration of our super premium Tequila — Código 1530 x Las Palmas Rosa Reposado, distilled and bottled in Mexico. More than something to sip, it's a signature spirit designed to become part of the Las Palmas story itself." The team behind the new venture want Las Palmas to become the go-to destination for everything from a quick after-work drink to a long leisurely weekend lunch, to a celebratory gathering or boozy dinner. And with offers like $5 Taco Wednesdays, a happy hour with $12 drinks, and signature margarita flights, you'll be hard-pressed not to check it out. Images: Supplied. Like what you see? Subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter to get stories just like these straight to your inbox.
It was one of Sydney's most anticipated restaurant openings of the year — and now, Rick Stein at Coogee Beach has finally opened its doors. The new Australian flagship from Rick and Sarah Stein brings the legendary British chef's world-famous seafood to one of the city's most beloved stretches of sand. Set within the new InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach, the restaurant marks the beginning of a new coastal chapter for the Steins. Much like their restaurants in Mollymook and Port Stephens, this seaside dining room will celebrate the best of Australia's coastal produce — but this time, the setting is quintessential Sydney luxe. Leading the kitchen is Head Chef Colin Chun, who brings more than two decades of experience in top hotel kitchens across Australia and Asia, including leadership roles at Hilton Sydney, the Pullman and W Taipei. A longtime admirer of Stein's philosophy of "fresh seafood, simply prepared", Chun brings a refined, produce-driven approach to the table. Chun says, "Opening Rick Stein at Coogee Beach is a privilege. Rick's influence on my cooking runs deep, and it's exciting to bring that shared philosophy to this beautiful location." The 224-seat space comprises a main dining room, courtyard terrace and relaxed bar, designed to reflect Coogee's breezy mix of sophistication and surfside charm. "Sydney's Coogee Beach is the perfect location for our flagship Australian restaurant," says Stein. "It's relaxed yet sophisticated, with that incredible connection to the ocean that has always inspired my cooking. For us, this feels like coming home." It's no surprise that the menu focuses heavily on top-quality local seafood, hand-selected by Frank Theodore of Get Fish and the Sydney Fish Market. As is Stein's signature style, the produce speaks for itself in simply prepared and beautifully refined dishes such as fresh grilled scallops with Montpellier butter, a hot shellfish platter, and Coffs Harbour King Prawns with Marie Rose sauce. Stein devotees can find a selection of his signature dishes at the new restaurant, including Rick's Fish & Chips, his Newlyn fish pie with seafood velouté and crisp breadcrumb topping, the inimitable marinated salmon with passionfruit, and his "gloriously messy" Singapore Blue Swimmer Crab. As always, he brings a touch of nostalgia to the table with dishes such as rock lobster Thermidor and Black Forest trifle. Paired with coastal-inspired cocktails and a wine list made for long lunches and sunset sessions, it's the ultimate seaside menu. Natural textures and materials used in the dining room reflect the organic beauty of Coogee Beach, and olive trees bring a touch of Stein's beloved Mediterranean to the Aussie coast. An open kitchen forms the beating heart of the restaurant, complemented by a cold seafood bar and a ten-seat kitchen table that offers an intimate front-row experience of the action. At the same time, a semi-private dining room is ideal for special gatherings. While Rick Stein at Coogee Beach is no doubt suited for celebrations, it's also just as welcoming for those seeking a laidback, yet exceptional, bite of fish and chips after a day at the beach. Stein says, "Coogee Beach feels like the perfect home for us in Australia. Its connection to the ocean, its sense of ease and its warmth are everything I love about cooking seafood. We're delighted to now be welcoming guests, and we look forward to the summer ahead." Images: Jack Fenby.
From New York's Rachel Comey to London's You Must Create, Denmark's Henrik Vibskov to Greece's Esiot and Paris's Cuisse de Grenouille, The Standard Store is the place to find international brands in Sydney. Its carefully curated and constantly evolving selection of high-end clothes, shoes, accessories and homewares is always a pleasure to browse — if only to get a good idea of what's happening in fashion and design around the world. Run by Sydney-based Nicola and Orlando Reindorf, the store also hosts small pop-up events from time to time, so it's worth keeping an eye on its Facebook page for workshops and talks. [caption id="attachment_779690" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cassandra Hannagan[/caption] Images: Cassandra Hannagan.
The beacon bakehouse of the inner-city suburbs has made its way over the bridge, at long last. Neutral Bay, originally named such when it was deemed a safe zone for foreign ships to anchor and take sustenance and supplies, has long had a quiet, cosy cafe scene of its own. And with Bourke Street Bakery's arrival, I suspect, it will bring the Bay back to its roots as a source of nourishment for happy visitors and locals alike. Nestled just behind Military Road — yes, the lower north shore has little service laneways, too (who knew?) — the bakery has an impossible-to-resist aroma that beckons through Young Lane and leads to the carbs-and-coffee Happy Place. With its simple deck-out, window stuffed with fresh bread and not a whitewashed faux-French finish in sight, the sincere space is adjunct to Bourke Street's philosophy of honest, artisan produce and simply good food. You'll find all the fabulous bits and bobs Bourke Street is known for — the flaky, impossibly succulent sausage rolls (pork and fennel, $4.50), the light-yet-lavish quiche (bacon, gruyere and leek quiche $4.50) and the substantial sandwiches with creative, yummy fillings ($9) — and the upbeat service is as warm as the freshly baked goods. As always, the coffee is great (from $2.50) and the patisserie is greater — I can't say no to the chocolate mousse and raspberry tart ($5) and will happily succumb to the ginger brulee tart ($5), too. And if you needed another reason to get into the delicious breads and bites of Bourke Street, the founders have started up the Bread and Butter Project: an initiative to help train up less fortunate folk in the bakery and return the profits back into training and employment opportunities for communities in need. Find the bread at the EQ Markets (Fox Studios), Sydney Growers Markets or
Snot blocks, phlegm cake, pus pie – whatever unsavoury name you call it, the vanilla slice and its loyal followers in Australia are entirely unfazed by the sour nicknames. Regardless of moniker, it's easy to spot in any neighbourhood bakery: a neat brick of wobbly yellow custard sandwiched between pastry and finished with a slick of white icing or a dusting of powdered sugar, depending on the region. I'd never heard of a vanilla slice before moving to Melbourne a decade ago. It was a foreign concept when I first spotted one at La Panela – a Preston bakery best known for its vegan spins on Vietnamese and Australian classics. At the time, I didn't think much of it, instead being drawn to rows of caramel slices, faux-pink strawberry doughnuts and jam tarts. But as many of these old-school Aussie baked sweets die out, the vanilla slice remains. Across Victoria – and increasingly, the rest of the country — bakeries loudly claim to make the best vanilla slice in Australia. The declarations appear on window decals and chalkboards, sometimes within blocks of other claimants, and often without explanation of whether the title was awarded or simply claimed. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Banana Boogie Bakery (@banana_boogie) While it's not entirely clear how the vanilla slice became so entrenched, according to the bakers themselves, European influence almost certainly played a role. "I'm not sure why [the vanilla slice] is so appealing to Australians," says Jason Spencer, owner of Banana Boogie Bakery in Adelaide. "It's a bastardised version of the French mille-feuille. We've taken a layer of pastry out and given it our own spin." The Dutch tompouce is another close relative — nearly identical, save for its pink icing, a variation still spotted in some Australian bakeries. There's also the Austro-Hungarian cremeschnitte and Polish napoleonka, but I suspect Australia's strong Greek influence played a bigger role; the vanilla slice bears more than a passing resemblance to galaktoboureko. Whatever the reason, it's a dessert Australians hold in high regard, whether driven by regional pride or nostalgia. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The French Lettuce (@thefrenchlettuce) Hudson Brown manages The French Lettuce in Carlton, home to "Melbourne's most loved vanilla slice — voted best in town", at least according to the website. It's backed by media praise and customer loyalty — something Brown attributes to consistency and familiarity. When gauging a solid vanilla slice, "you want to be transported back to a memory of something special from childhood," he says. Brown's parents took over the shop in 2003, though it's been operating since 1984 with the same recipe. But staying traditional isn't cheap. Ten years ago, Brown says cream cost $14 for five litres. Today, he pays $20 for three. "Some bakeries use what's called imitation cream," he says. "It's basically a powder you add water to." French Lettuce won't do that. Maintaining the original recipe is a decision Brown credits for the bakery's longevity and cult following, even as costs rise. Cutting corners, he says, is obvious to customers who care. And boy, do Australians care. The Facebook group The Best Vanilla Slices in Australia has more than 125,000 members, with posts ranging from forensic cross-sections of custard to heated debates over pastry quality and accusations of bakeries "cheating" with packet mixes. Nowhere is this fervour more apparent than in Victoria, where the vanilla slice has achieved near-mythic status. Victorian bakeries routinely dominate the rankings in the competitive landscape of the vanilla slice. The state even hosts an annual competition, The Great Australian Vanilla Slice Triumph, devoted entirely to the treat. The event began in 1998, sparked by then-premier Jeff Kennett. Legend has it that Kennett ate a particularly good vanilla slice while passing through Ouyen in northwest Victoria and decided the small town deserved national attention. A Grand Prix was floated. A vanilla slice competition won out. The event ran there for more than a decade before relocating to Merbein, Mildura, and eventually back to Merbein. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Donna, do tell (@donnadotell) Last year's top honour went to Sharps' Bakery in Birchip, a small regional shop that has become something of a pilgrimage site after a prodigious six wins at the event. "People will travel from Melbourne or anywhere to go and get their vanilla slice," says judging coordinator Anne Nash. Beyond professional bakers, the competition includes categories for home cooks, schoolchildren and seniors, alongside awards for both classic and innovative slices. The competition is no joke – some interstate participants even set up makeshift kitchens in nearby caravan parks to ensure slices are as fresh as possible on judging day. Judges take their role seriously, too, with strict criteria around what makes a good slice. "We're not looking for a creamy vanilla slice – we're looking for a vanilla slice," says Nash. "You have to be able to taste the vanilla." As for what differentiates one slice from another? "They don't like to share their secrets. It's very competitive." Spencer, whose bakery placed second in last year's competition and first in 2024, edging out Victorian competitors as an Adelaide upstart, argues that the difference between a good and bad vanilla slice is immediately apparent. "You get ones that are rubbery, gelatinous, chewy – not appealing at all," he says. "Then there's the home version people make with SAO biscuits, custard in the middle and fudge icing or fondant with chocolate feathering." He says there are a few telltale signs to look for, starting with the icing. "You can always tell if a bakery sells its vanilla slices over multiple days by the icing," he says. "Fudge icing will last two to three days in the fridge. Fondant starts running after a day. It looks terrible." Second is colour. A deeply yellow custard, Spencer says, often signals cost-cutting. A base made with water and starch keeps that hue, while custard heavy in milk and cream – like Banana Boogie's – sets much paler. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bourkies Bakehouse (@bourkiesbakehouse) When it comes to the "best" slice, tradition still reigns, but innovation is gaining ground. Woodend institution Bourkies Bakehouse has made its vanilla slice the same way for 35 years, earning awards and fierce loyalty. At the same time, it has embraced contemporary flavours inspired by Filipino desserts. Its bold purple ube slice leans into the earthy sweetness of purple yam, while a pandan version highlights the herb's grassy, floral notes. "With competitions now, it's all about innovation," says retail operations manager Tess Nic. "You still have your classic custard slice, but there are constant improvements and new flavours coming through." Customers seem receptive, and other bakeries are following suit. Dulce Bakehouse, known for traditional South American pastries, has found its biggest hit in a vanilla slice layered with dulce de leche – a subtle twist that honours tradition without alienating purists. Which may explain the vanilla slice's endurance. It's a flexible format that allows for variation, yet minimal enough that quality – or lack thereof – is immediately apparent. Despite all the claims of the best vanilla slice, it's clear that for most Australians, the verdict is deeply personal. 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Whenever Kmart drops a new homewares range — be it beachy and boho or colourful and cosy — it inspires a Pokémon-style response. If there's new linen, trinkets and furniture to buy, you've gotta deck out your house with them all. The Australian department store's latest must-buy pieces will spark the same reaction, too, all while heroing Wiradjuri artist Judith Young. She has teamed up with the retailer on the just-dropped Waluwin collection, the latest in the company's First Nations program. Waluwin is the Wiradjuri word for healing and good health, which Young is keen to highlight in the range of wooden bowls, serving platters, eucalyptus-scented candles, cotton quilt sets and more. Customers can also purchase other pieces of serving ware, tea towels, candles, decorative pots and a canvas art print. On sale since Monday, March 6 online and in-store, the collection keeps everything affordable — $10 gets you a reusable stainless steel tumbler, while queen bedding tops the price list at $65. Whatever you opt for, you'll see a leaf design that's "symbolic of the Waluwin way, and each leaf represents something different," Young explains. "Many Aboriginal people around this country will all have different varieties of plants and trees that they use to make them well, and that is part of the diverse story we have as Aboriginal people." We are all different, our artwork and stories are different, and each has deep significance, just as my markings have meaning to me and my family." For the Waluwin collection, Young drew upon her family's history, with her parents growing up along the Murrumbidgee River in Narrandera in New South Wales. Her mother Judith Williams (nee Johnson) was a watercolour artist, while her father Kevin Williams was a boomerang and artefact maker. Accordingly, watercolour painting and burning techniques both feature. So do lines representing tree carvings, dots that are all about mob coming together, circles that symbolise water holes, and plants such as wattle and tea tree. The collaboration with Kmart appealed to Young because "a lot of our mob positively connect and shop at Kmart around Australia," she notes. "So to have the opportunity to work with them on this collection will have an impact on family across Victoria, regional NSW, Sydney, Darwin and Adelaide. The deeper reason is that I felt that it was the right thing to do, from the first meeting the atmosphere in the head 0ffice with the design team set the flow for the entire collection." Together, Young and Kmart's design team worked through themes and topics within her artwork, including family traditions, and what various colours and markings mean. The aim: to ensure that each design has a story that connects to the land, and that exactly that came through in the finished products. "It was a new experience for me, working with a big company, and a challenge at first. The design team had respect not just for the image but the story and helped make it an easier process, as I did have some challenges with trust and getting out of my comfort zone — but to see how they were really careful when considering each marking, colour and every component was incredible. I felt respected and know that my story and that of my family has been honoured," Young continued. "From this collection, I want people to know my work is about health, healing, joy and peace, speaking to the importance of healthy minds, bodies and spirit. This comes from connecting with Country, eating well and listening to your surroundings. The collection is about covering yourself in a healthy way of living, from what you eat, drink, wear, and sleep under." Kmart and Judith Young's Waluwin collection is on sale online and in-store now.
The idea that you can't have too much of a good thing has been part of The Office franchise ever since an American version of the UK-originated hit was initially locked in. As well 188 episodes of the US take on the workplace comedy, more iterations have followed around the world, including in Australia. An American spinoff called The Paper led by Domhnall Gleeson (Echo Valley) also arrives in September 2025. Here's another way that "the more, the merrier" applies to The Office: via the Superfan episodes. Extended scenes, bloopers, deleted moments: they're all included, alongside other bonus content — and for the first time, these lengthier instalments are available Down Under. [caption id="attachment_1018235" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Chris Haston/NBC[/caption] As at Thursday, August 21, 2025, Binge has dropped the Superfan episodes across seasons 1–8 of the US The Office, spanning 170 episodes — and an extra 28 hours, 55 minutes and 20 seconds material. This is the first time ever that they've not only been made available in Australia, but outside of the US. Get ready to see the beloved sitcom in an entirely new way, then, no matter how many times you've watched and rewatched it before. For everyone who has ever had a cringeworthy boss, annoying co-worker or soul-crushing office job, this comedy franchise has understood for more than two decades now. It was back in 2001 that the original UK version of The Office arrived, introducing the world to the literally paper-pushing David Brent. And, in 2005, an American series featuring the also-awkward Michael Scott hit the small screen as well. The US iteration of The Office proved one of the rare instances where a TV remake is better than the original. It was also immensely easy to just keep rewatching, as fans have known since the 2005–13 show finished its run. Of course, that's what you get when you round up Steve Carell (Mountainhead), John Krasinski (Fountain of Youth), Jenna Fischer (Mean Girls), Rainn Wilson (Home Delivery), Mindy Kaling (Velma), Ed Helms (Family Switch), Ellie Kemper (Happiness for Beginners), Craig Robinson (Hot Frosty) and more in the same show, and let all of them break out their comedic best. As for The Paper, it streams from Thursday, September 4, 2025, also on Binge, and is set at a midwestern newspaper publisher. As its predecessor was, it's a mockumentary series. The setup: the same documentary crew that turned their cameras towards Dunder Mifflin's Scranton branch have found a new workplace to explore. Their time pointing their lens the Toledo Truth Teller's way coincides with Ned Sampson (Gleeson) joining the publication as editor-in-chief, with the paper's newest employee underwhelmed with the status quo and brimming with ideas about how to change things. Check out a trailer for The Office season one's Superfan episodes below: The Office Superfan episodes are available to stream in Australia from Thursday, August 21, 2025 via Binge.
Much-loved North Shore bistro Loulou has landed across the harbour with a stylish new outpost set above Martin Place Metro. The latest opening from fast-growing hospitality group Etymon (The Charles, Poetica) exudes the same relaxed elegance as the Milsons Point original, this time tailored to the pace and polish of a CBD crowd. Spread across two levels with seating for 175, the expansive new venue — located next door to grab-and-go sibling Petit Loulou — balances classic bistro charm with modern polish. Think: smartly upholstered banquettes, stone, timber and cork textures, and a shimmering silver ceiling downstairs that nods to the slicker pace of the city. Designed by Darlinghurst studio Tom Mark Henry, the space easily transitions from a breezy, sun-washed dining room by day to a moody boîte by night across three distinct areas: an upstairs oyster and wine bar anchored by a striking marble bar, a more intimate dining room below, and streetside tables perfect for people-watching with a glass of wine in hand. [caption id="attachment_1014834" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Steven Woodburn[/caption] The all-day menu stays true to Loulou's brand of refined yet approachable French fare. The CBD spot opens from 7am on weekdays, meaning early risers can drop in for the likes of caramelised brioche with berries and fromage blanc or sourdough crumpet topped with chèvre and avocado — ideal for a bloody mary-backed breakfast meeting. Lunch and dinner are centred around bistro staples and Loulou favourites like fruits de mer, John Dory in sauce champagne and steak frites with a three-day pepper sauce. A new addition, the Sandwich Américain — a steak frites baguette served exclusively at lunch — takes care of any cravings on the go. The drinks program is equally sharp. Alongside a tight cocktail list — which includes lesser-seen classics like the grasshopper and ramos gin fizz — there's a 350-strong wine list with a strong French focus that straddles the fence between adventurous and accessible, with a nice spread available by the glass and a handful by the half-bottle, too. The after-work crowd is looked after with a dedicated happy hour, L'Apéro, from 4–7pm. Stop by for $2 oysters and escargots, mini martinis and Loulou's signature kir royale for $13 and $18 cheeseburgers with frites. [caption id="attachment_1014828" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Steven Woodburn[/caption] Top images: Steven Woodburn.
Jessi Singh, the mind behind some of the country's best Indian restaurants, now has a home on York Street. Pinky-Ji is Singh's second Sydney outpost, launched with the help of former Chin Chin chef Johann Jay, who built a cult following throughout Australia with his unorthodox eateries in Melbourne, Byron Bay, Adelaide and Surry Hills. "Pinky-Ji is the younger, sassier, and more independent version of our much-loved Daughter In Law," says Singh. "The menu in our venue will bring all of the fun and unauthentic food that Daughter in Law is synonymous with — with a slightly more elevated twist." At Pinky-Ji, you can expect flamboyant decor, including images of Bollywood stars, neon lighting and red velvet furniture to create an extraordinary atmosphere of luxury. When exploring the menu, keep an eye out for the seven key sections — snacks, raw, street, grill, wok, tandoor and curry — plus bread, sides and drinks. Kick things off with a snack like a curry crab croqueta ($8). From there, dip your toes into the Mumbai Corn, accompanied by chilli lime yoghurt, paneer and curry popcorn ($16). If you're looking for a menu item that packs an extra punch, opt for the half-lobster covered in Sri Lankan coconut curry leaf sambal ($48). You'll find that many of the menu items can be shared around the table. From the wok section, you can order crab fried rice with chilli oil ($30), while the curry selection spans from unauthentic butter chicken ($32) and fragrant yellow vegan dahl ($22) to coconut prawns ($32) and lamb rogan josh ($32), all of which can be paired with aged basmati rice ($6), garlic or sesame naan ($5-$12), and roti ($5). There is no shortage of crowd-pleasers. Still feeling indecisive? Opt for the Chef's Selection. For $65 per person, this includes Balls of Happiness for entree, kingfish ceviche, cauliflower, shakarkandi chaat, tandoor chicken, alongside a variety of curries with rice and naan, plus a pistachio dessert. Finally, when the time comes to pair a drink with your curry, you can opt for a classic cocktail or peruse the help-yourself craft beer fridges for a hoppy treat. To top off all of the eccentric fun of Pinky-Ji, the private dining room features a karaoke machine loaded up with songs from the 70s, 80s and 90s. You'll find Pinky Ji in our list of the best degustations in Sydney. Check out the full list here.
Melbourne's fashion fiends are in for a serious treat, with the NGV International kicking off its dazzling new exhibition — The Krystyna Campbell-Pretty Fashion Gift. A treasure trove of sartorial delights, the free showcase features over 150 haute couture pieces from some of the world's most iconic fashion houses. Prepare for wardrobe envy to hit hard as you take in this intriguing collection, which has been gifted to the NGV by leading philanthropist Krystyna Campbell-Pretty. There are a swag of legendary designs on show, from Le Smoking Suit — the avant-garde Yves Saint Laurent women's tuxedo, circa 1967 — to that tartan Alexander McQueen creation made famous by Sarah Jessica Parker at the 2006 Met Gala. Taking a style trip through the ages, the exhibition also showcases Madame Grès gowns, a rare collection of little black dresses from the one and only Chanel, and Dior designs from as far back as the label's 1947 debut. On display daily until Sunday, July 14, the threads are backed by a curation of original sketches and workbooks, rarely seen early-edition fashion magazines, embroidered samples and a suite of fashion photography. And for those keen to dive in further, The Krystyna Campbell-Pretty Fashion Gift is accompanied by a program of talks, including an International Women's Day chat about women's fashion in the 20th century. Images: Tom Ross.
There comes a time when each of us wants an upgrade: to take a grown-up step away from flat-packed, ready-made living and start turning that ‘Dream House’ Pinterest collection into a reality. Beachside hut, slick city unit or terrace house in the leafy ‘burbs – whatever your style, Concrete Playground has the pick of Sydney’s best interior (and a little bit of exterior) design stores right here. So you can put away that IKEA catalogue, pronto. Chee Soon & Fitzgerald Stocking both local and international designers like Georg Jenson, Artemide and Marimekko, as well as their own brand CSF, this Crown Street store is known for its modern decorative fabrics, wallpaper and lighting. They also provide a custom design service in store for all sorts of soft furnishings like lamp shades, rugs and throws. 387 Crown Street, Surry Hills; (02) 9360 1031 Clothfabric Whether you're covering your bed, sofa, tables or walls, Clothfabric has handmade pieces from local craftsmen who use local materials. They design all of their items from a 'surf' tea towel and 'seaweed chalk' cushions to abstract wallpaper and floral bed linen. 35 Buckingham Street, Surry Hills; (02) 9699 2266 Corporate Culture From tables to beds, lighting and acoustics Corporate Culture in Chippendale has everything to make your house designer from top to bottom. With designers from Arne Jacobsen to Hiromichi Konno you will definitely find something to fit your style. 21-23 Levey Street (off Buckland Street), Chippendale; (02) 9690 0077 David Met Nicole Vintage amazingness is what can be found at David Met Nicole with quirky pieces from the UK, France and America. Mannequins, world globes, clocks, furniture is what you will find from the 1900s to the 1950s. 382 Cleveland Street, Surry Hills; (02) 9698 7416 Dust For lovers of antiques and bric-a-brac, Dust is the place to be for all things unique. From headdresses, taxidermy and chandeliers to vases, lamps and artworks. 381 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst; (02) 9332 2854 Elements I Love Genuine vintage furniture and homewares collected from France and India, including ornate antique wooden doors, cast iron chandeliers and brass keys (in case you've lost your own, obviously). Personally, we're coveting the delicately (and lovingly) string-bound, battered and fraying paperbacks in the store window. 2/276 Devonshire Street, Surry Hills; (02) 9698 8884 Great Dane Great Dane, located in Redfern is a mix of modern and classic Scandinavian designs from furniture to accessories and lighting. Brands include And Tradition, De Vorm, NUD Collection and many more creative designers to choose from to give your home a Scandinavian edge. Slick, modern Scandinavian and Danish interior designs, from hand-crafted timber chairs and coffee tables to oak and walnut work tables and lightweight metal, timber and plexi shelving. 613 Elizabeth Street, Redfern; 0417 279 548 Hub With an array of designers that will help you fit out every nook and cranny of your living quarters Hub lives up to its name for all your furniture needs. A focus on chairs, lighting, living and floor coverings from designers across the globe such as Fatboy, Skitsch, Celine Wright and David Mellor. 66-72 Reservoir Street, Surry Hills; (02) 9217 0700 Ici et La Ici et La has an abundance of all things Francaise - deck chairs, striped fabrics, French garden furniture and accessories. Pieces are continually shipped from France which means there is always something new that may be perfect for your home. 7 Nickson Street, Surry Hills; (02) 8399 1173 Jardan All designed and made in Melbourne, Jardan has a wide range of sofas, chairs, tables and beds that are custom made through a family owned and run company. 650 Botany Road, Alexandria; (02) 9693 2288 Koskela At Koskela, owners Russel Koskela and Sasha Titchkosky have a philosophy to produce environmentally-friendly, sustainable furniture that is also beautiful. All of the stock at their Rosebery warehouse store, including wooden kitchen stools or a classic timber base sofa, are designed by Koskela and, where possible, made from reclaimed timbers. They also sell inspired wicker light frames, loom rugs and a colourful range of recyclable polyethylene stools for your garden or balcony. 1/85 Dunning Avenue, Rosebery; (02) 9280 0999 Latitude If your idea of a dream pad involves white-washed pine, wicker chairs and fleece blankets for curling up after a day at the beach - Latitude in Manly is the interior design store for you. Here, inspiration is drawn from chic, contemporary beachside living. Whether or not you have the beach view, you can certainly kit out your home to feel like you do. 12 Sydney Road, Manly; (02) 9976 5623 Living Edge Living Edge is Australian owned offering beautifully designed furniture from around the world with a mix of iconic and classic pieces. Priding themselves on the most carefully chosen pieces offering a huge range of pieces for your home or office. Designers such as Charles & Ray Eames, Mark Newson, Pierre Paulin are just a few of the names you will be able to find architecturally sound space. 74 Commonwealth Street, Surry Hills; (02) 9640 5600 Macleay on Manning With brands in store like Missoni, Fornasseti, Kenzo, Paul Smith, Bouvier and Jasper Conran (and many more besides), Macleay on Manning is interior design with a little va va voom. From modern classics like Andy Warhol prints on your crockery to eery ghost-like faces engraved into the bottom of your whiskey glass, owners Jill and Rod Ordish have handpicked both local and international designs in furniture, art, jewellery and books, among other homeware treats. 1/85 Macleay Street, Potts Point; (02) 9331 4100 Object Gallery Celebrating the work of Australian designers, Object Gallery provides a sales platform for as many as 200 different artists and designers each year. The Surry Hills shop stocks an eclectic mix of ceramics, fabrics, glass, and other gifts and home knick knacks. 417 Bourke Street, Surry Hills; (02) 9361 4511 Orson & Blake If you prefer your furniture with bold prints, adventurous colour and that luxurious feel, Orson & Blake in Surry Hills is likely to have a sofa, cushion set or canvas painting to suit your style. Stocking almost everything you'd need to kit out your home, from leopard print, cowhide or shiny gold ottomans (yes please!) to your own wicker hanging chair: they have it all. 483 Riley Street, Surry Hills; (02) 8399 2525 Planet Planet prides itself on simple designs and sustainably-sourced natural fibres like oak coffee tables, muslin lampshades and oversized jute rugs. They stock a solid collection of ceramics, textiles, lighting and those big investment pieces of furniture, like a strong oak frame bed. It's like the antidote to IKEA. 114 Commonwealth Street, Surry Hills; (02) 9211 5959 Seasonal Concepts Stepping into the wonderland that is Seasonal Concepts, in Redfern, will feel every bit like you've stumbled upon an indoor marketplace. There's a vast collection of varied and unique items, everything from antique and retro furniture to a taxidermy peacock. Pick up truly one-off, pre-loved items (quick) before someone else gets there first. 122 Redfern Street, Redfern; (02) 8399 2435 Space Space has a huge variety of creative pieces from designers and brands from around the world such as Fiam Italia, Roll & Hill and Triangolo. The showroom is big and has something for every room and taste. 84 O'Riordan Street, Alexandria; (02) 8339 7588 Shelf/Life Simple, elegant products and homeware designs with a conscience. Shelf/life carefully sources handmade, local and ethically produced stationery, kitchen accessories, gifts and ornaments to decorate your home with products that have been designed to outlive the trends. Shop 1, 50 Reservoir Street, Surry Hills; (02) 9211 2858 Vampt Vintage Design At their main showroom in Surry Hills, you’ll find one off vintage and retro pieces like a teak boomerang sofa table, 1960s ‘futuristic’ chairs, an Art Deco drinks cabinet, and even Danish Tivoli pendant lights by the very same Jorn Utzon who designed Sydney Opera House. 486-490 Elizabeth Street, Surry Hills; (02) 9699 1089 Wall Candy Wallpaper Delicious, fun, playful or simple, elegant and classic. This store has a never-ending collection of Wall Candy wallpaper designs: floral, geometric, striped - you name it, and we betcha, they have every colour. 420 Crown Street, Surry Hills; (02) 9331 5884 Workshopped Like an exhibition in upcoming Australian designers, Workshopped has been supporting and selling locally designed homewares and home accessories for over a decade. Inject some fun and flamboyance in your home with some quirky, playful products like Takeshi Iue's Japanese-style fruit bowl which elegantly fans out like a flower, or a porcelain fish bowl inspired by George Orwell's 1984, offering your goldfish a touch more privacy than the average cylindrical glass bowl. 2/8 Hill Street, Surry Hills; (02) 9146 4353 Words by Emma Joyce & Jane Fayle
In a stark change from last year, 2021 is shaping up to be quite the magical time for Australian musical theatre fans. The country is finally getting a shot to see Hamilton right now, everyone will be able to swoon over Moulin Rouge! from August and making a date with one of popular culture's most famous masked men, The Phantom of the Opera, is on the cards from September. And, as just announced, Cinderella will be riding a pumpkin carriage into Sydney when November hits, too. First premiering back on Broadway in 2013, this version of the beloved fairy tale features music by Richard Rodgers and lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II, a couple of the best-known names in musical theatre history. The pair actually wrote their songs for a 1957 television production, which starred a pre-Mary Poppins and The Sound of Music Julie Andrews. (If you've seen the 1997 TV movie with Brandy and Whitney Houston — which remade that original small-screen flick — then you've already seen a version based on Rodgers and Hammerstein's original efforts.) Now, the Broadway production is finally making the jump Down Under, debuting locally at Sydney's Capitol Theatre at a yet-to-be-revealed date in November, as presented by Opera Australia and the Gordon Frost Organisation. The two organisations recently teamed up on The King and I, another Rodgers and Hammerstein hit, but this time they're all about glass slippers and masked balls. Whether Cinderella will make its way to other Aussie cities hasn't yet been announced either. Don't expect the exact same story you're used to, though — as you read as a kid, and saw in Disney's classic animated film and its live-action remake. Here, Cinderella is a contemporary figure, but living in a fairytale setting. She's still transformed from a chambermaid into a princess; however, the tale has been given a firmly modern spin. Just who'll be starring in the show when it makes its way to Sydney hasn't yet been revealed, but they'll be working with a production penned by playwright Douglas Carter Beane (Xanadu, Sister Act) based on Hammerstein's work — which was, of course, adapted from the fairy tale about a young woman dreaming of a better life. The Broadway production was nominated for eight Tony Awards and won one, for Best Costume Design. In the US, Carly Rae Jepsen played Ella for a stint, while The Nanny's Fran Drescher also took on the role of Madame, Ella's stepmother, for a period. If you're wondering how the musical works its magic, check out a clip from the original Broadway show below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wypPkiBW1Z4 Rodgers + Hammerstein's Cinderella will hit the stage at the Sydney's Capitol Theatre in November 2021, with exact dates yet to be announced. Tickets will go on sale on April 30, with pre-sales from April 26 — for further details, or to join the waitlist, head to the musical's website. Top image: Original Broadway production of Cinderella by Carol Rosegg.
North King Street's run of heavy-hitting openings isn't slowing down, and the latest arrival comes with some serious cred behind it. Piqu is a new Southeast Asian diner from chefs Jihwan Choi (ex-Momofuku Seiobo, Callao) and Nicola D'Angela (ex-Osteria di Russo & Russo, Callao). The pair met on the tools locally, bonding over a shared obsession with Southeast Asian food, particularly Thai, and Piqu is the spicy-sweet result. The pair have curated a menu that leans into bold, punchy flavours, grounded in technique but not afraid to veer off-script. The name sets the tone. Derived from 'piquant', Piqu is all about sharp, spicy, tangy food that grabs your attention as they land on your table. In the kitchen, things are kept hands-on. Mortar and pestle work is central, with herbs like galangal, coriander root, chilli and garlic pounded fresh to build the foundations of each dish. Smaller dishes include a raw tuna that riffs on Thai laab, mixed with beetroot and orange nam jim (that spicy, sweet, sour dipping sauce that makes Thai dishes sing), then wrapped up in lettuce cups. From there, the menu moves into bigger, richer territory. A riverine rump cap is served over a deeply spiced massaman curry with kipfler potatoes, deliberately less sweet than the versions you'll find around town, and dialled up with birdseye chilli heat. Then there's the fried spatchcock, coated in red curry and nodding to Choi's time at Momofuku Seiobo, delivering crunch and depth in equal measure. Drinks follow the same brief. Cocktails pull from Southeast Asian flavours with a Thai-inspired Peanut Colada alongside sharper, citrus-driven options to pair with bar snacks, while the wine list has been handled by Alice Massaria (Wine Concept), whose CV includes players like The Gidley and Bistecca. The space itself mirrors the approach. It's intimate, unfussy and easy to walk past if you're not paying attention, a contrast to the food coming out of the kitchen. Inside, subtle details reference the menu, from sketches of chillies and limes to a slightly cheeky, hand-painted Last Supper-style artwork featuring the chefs (and a few unexpected Pulp Fiction cameos, why not?). It might be one of the more understated openings on the strip, but make no mistake: Piqu is another all-star addition to North King Street's ever-growing lineup, and one that's unlikely to stay under the radar for long. Imagery: Trent van der Jagt
Melbourne institution Padre Coffee's first inter-state outpost has landed in Paddington, complete with a storefront where you can peruse the brand's beans alongside all of the equipment you could ever want for home brewing. And, if you're looking to take your coffee knowledge to the next level, the charming no-frills cafe also boasts a dedicated education and training space. Following its massive success at its flagship stores across Melbourne and Noosa, as well as online, the brand decided it was finally time to branch out into new territories — and venturing into the ever-growing Sydney caffeine market was up next. Setting up shop at Paddington's Five Ways, Padre Coffee has brought its beloved blends to Glenmore Road. For less adventurous coffee drinkers, opt for the brand's staples like the Seasonal Blend and the Golden Rule — a sweet, fruity blend featuring notes of plum, peach and apricot. If you want to expand your pallet, try the Wild Child and its flavour profile of dried fruit, honey and dark chocolate. Although they specialise in organic beans and brews, the brand is not limited to coffee — you'll also find a range of exciting teas, chocolate and sugar for sale at the Sydney outpost as well. Feeling snacky? You can also nab a sweet treat from local vendors to pair with your freshly made cup of joe. Expect pastries and bread from Staple Bread & Necessities, cookies from Cut Lunch Deli or famed Portuguese tarts from Clovelly's Tuga Pastries.
Trying to work out how many kilos of lamb shoulder you'll need to feed six? Not sure what type of sausage to use in that pasta recipe? Don't know the difference between grain- and grass-fed? One of the best parts about going to a Sydney butcher (aside from getting the freshest cuts of meat) is having a chat with the knowledgeable staff. Butchers know their product, from the whole beast to small goods, and will be able to answer all your carnivorous quandaries. And whether you're shopping for minced meat, French-trimmed cutlets or a rack of ribs, you'll want to talk to your butcher about free-range, local and ethical options, too. To help you find the best Sydney butcher near you, we created this list of our favourite local spots scattered all over our fine city. Recommended reads: The Best Bakeries in Sydney The Best Boutique Bottle Shops in Sydney The Best Cheese Shops in Sydney The Best Delis in Sydney
