While cliche to say that the heart of Sydney can be found in its patchwork of neighbourhoods, it's true. You see it every morning when you duck out for coffee and in the venues we choose to celebrate birthdays, farewells and everything in between. But its more than just postcodes, it's the people who truly make Sydney. Chef, surfer, and Sydneysider Joel Bennetts (ex-Three Blue Ducks, Fish Shop, Pier) has teamed up with Square to produce a three-part docuseries, Good Neighbours, on the independent hospitality operators who form the backbone of Sydney's 'hoods. In what feels equal measures of Parts Unknown, How I Built This and The Bear, Good Neighbours traverses Sydney from the Mediterranean deli-lined streets of Haberfield to the polished alleyways of Potts Point through the lens of the venues, people and food that make them so unique. Bennetts sets out with a simple question: what does it mean to be a good neighbour? In between bites, he discovers that the answer is pretty simple. Keep It Local For a start, it's about keeping it local. "All of our pastas we get from Peppe's across the road," Chris Theodosi, co-owner of Haberfield's Happyfield, shares with host Joel Bennetts in Good Neighbours. Peppe's has been providing fresh pasta for the neighbourhood since 1993, while the groceries for Happyfield come from Zanetti 5 Star Gourmet Deli, which has been around since 1967. "Businesses that have been here 50 years, they were like, we've never seen a business like this here—ever", Theodosi and co-owner Jesse Orleans shares in the series. Now, the viral pancake spot has become a reason people from all across Sydney make their breakfast pilgrimage to Haberfield. For the team at Pillar—a specialty coffee spot in Burwood—they're all about giving their community "a consistent third space where you always know you're welcome." Co-owner Edwin Lou says his business is about being a pillar (mind the pun) for the community. Whether you're a local photographer who needs an exhibition space or a pastry chef trying to sell your creations, at Pillar, you'll always be welcome. "We really give a damn about the suburb," shared Bennetts' longtime friends, Mike and Lucy Haskas of Bondi's The Shop & Wine Bar. The husband and wife duo even built a community garden so local residents could have access to fresh produce. Honour Your Neighbour Rather than keeping it insular, in Good Neighbours, Bennetts found that it's also about what hospitality brings into the community, too. Take MLK Deli, a cobalt blue deli doing 100% halal sandwiches, for example. Owner Myra's mother is Uzbek, her father is Afghan and her husband is Turkish. That means you'll find innovative, halal-friendly takes on cured meat—like beef mortadella and lamb prosciutto—in their frequently sold-out sandwiches. For Candy and Gaia at Bondi's Lox In A Box, they're not just serving bagels. "Bagels are kind of the centre point of my life, being Jewish," Candy told Bennetts when they catch up in the series. "In our culture, a bagel represents the circle of life, good luck and prosperity." Each bagel is made with Candy's grandmother's recipe, alongside more of her family recipes. [caption id="attachment_763492" align="alignnone" width="2000"] Kimberley Low[/caption] Care About What You Do To get started in the industry, you don't need to be a chef with years spent cutting your teeth in professional kitchens. Bennetts found a love of hospitality and a desire to do something good for the area you love will take you far. "You hear on the street, out surfing with people, what they want and how they're feeling," The Shop & Wine Bar's Mike shared on how they've created a beloved local spot that the community was asking for. For Pillar's Edwin, it was a life-changing cup of coffee. "I didn't know coffee could taste like that!" he told Bennetts. Then, he hired the barista and started his own place in his local Burwood. Pasan Wijesena was drawn to Newtown as Sydney's lockout laws wreaked havoc on nightlife. "I knew I wanted it, so I thought other people might too," he said of his idea for a cocktail meets music bar. He decided to open up Earl's Juke Joint in the Inner West thanks to its reputation as "a safe spot for people of diverse backgrounds." [caption id="attachment_954425" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Anna Postnikova[/caption] For Donato Salomone, one day, he was running the Italian delicatessen he opened to fill a gap he'd been missing since leaving Italy. The next, he was the owner of Sydney's latest viral sandwich spot. Thanks to an 8am Instagram post, he was met with a crowd of hundreds at his teensy laneway joint, Salumerie. In shock, Donato handwrote dockets for a free sandwich for the next day when he sold out of gratitude for his neighbours for showing up. You'd be forgiven for thinking that Sydney's hospitality scene is in direct competition. For Pasan Wijesena, owner of Earl's Juke Joint, it's more like a case of "a rising tide lifts all ships." Likewise, for Mike and Lucy, "We should be in direct competition, but we're not." Rather, "we all look out for each other, it's a beautiful family." It makes you wonder what cafe concept is marinating in someone's head right now, waiting for them to start. Find out how your local favourites use Square at their website. Watch Good Neighbours in full on YouTube.
It's not every day you get to hang out with a Hollywood A-lister and step into a fully immersive experience that's as close to the Land of Oz as you'll ever likely encounter. Yet that's precisely what's going down just outside Los Angeles, as Airbnb celebrates the release of Wicked: For Good with the launch of Elphaba's Retreat. Made for Wicked fanatics, this one-of-a-kind experience and overnight stay is worth the international adventure alone. Taking place on Wednesday, December 3, superstar Cynthia Erivo — aka Elphaba in the films — is inviting 20 guests to discover Elphaba's Retreat through a three-hour experience. Stepping into a picture-perfect refuge, those selected will have the chance to hang out with the Grammy, Emmy, Tony-winning and three-time Academy Award nominee that goes far beyond a simple meet-and-greet. On the day, you'll sip tea by the fireside with Cynthia, while a sommelier serves a special blend steeped in forest flora. Then, guests undertake a guided exploration, revealing easter eggs and authentic artifacts from the movies before taking part in a multi-sensory sing-along that brings the Ozian Forest to life. Finally, there's still time for a creative workshop where you'll weave your own witch's broom from willow, moss, poppies and more. Yet this fantastical adventure gets even better for a lucky guest and their plus-one who experience Elphaba's Retreat through an overnight stay. With the witch heading out of town for the night on Saturday, December 6, this whimsical accom filled with whispers will serve as a peaceful after-dark hideaway. Throughout the night, guests can expect a quiet meal and an enchanting evening of non-stop stargazing. Ready to change for good? Guests can now request to book the experience with Cynthia Erivo on the Airbnb website for free, with submissions closing at 2am AEST on Thursday, November 14. At the same time, guests can request to book the overnight stay — you'll have until 2am AEST on Friday, November 21, to submit. Designed as the ultimate Wicked experience, there's no better way to get immersed in Elphaba's world. "Elphaba taught me that our differences are what makes us powerful," says Cynthia Erivo. "Her story transformed me, and I can't wait to share that journey with you." Submissions for the Airbnb Wicked: For Good experience close at 2am AEST on Thursday, November 14, while booking requests for the overnight stay remain open until 2am AEST on Friday, November 21. Head to the website for more information.
The new Palace Central is just the ticket for an entertaining drinking experience. The cocktail-style bar area offers views over Chippendale, where you can have a tasty tipple from their well-curated drinks list. If you think this is just a little bar in a cinema, think again – there's even a beer hall with over 40 brews! This 13 screen complex is licensed too, so you can take said drink into the flick with you once the sun goes down. If you're feeling peckish before or after the film, you can either duck into the Central Park food headquarters, take a trip down nearby Spice Alley, or nibble on a charcuterie or cheese board right where you sit.
From within the heritage-listed walls of a former Rose Bay church, aambra brings the fire, ritual and generosity of Levantine cooking to one of Sydney's most striking dining rooms. After sitting dormant for more than a decade, the 120-year-old landmark on Old South Head Road — whose foundation stone was laid in 1904 — has been reimagined as a 140-seat restaurant that leans into both history and spectacle. Behind the transformation is owner Cristian Gorgees, who spent more than three years working with DS17's Paul Papadopoulos to respectfully restore the building into a smart, contemporary dining space. Inside, sunlight filters through original stained-glass windows onto custom Italian marble floors in warm burgundy and peach tones, while Venetian plaster walls are adorned with custom lighting and a statement art deco mirror. Overhead, a sculptural brass-and-linen light installation draws the eye up to the 10-metre-high cathedral ceiling, with a glassed-in mezzanine private dining room floating above one half of the space. Out back, an alfresco garden space with olive trees, lounge chairs and a multi-level wraparound deck offers a relaxed counterpoint to the drama inside. [caption id="attachment_1053488" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Vincent Yeung[/caption] Running the length of the room, an open-plan bar and kitchen gives diners a front-row seat to the open-flame grill. The refined, share-style menu draws on centuries-old family recipes from Gorgees' Iraqi heritage alongside flavours from Lebanon, Jordan, Cyprus and Egypt, with Executive Chef Gianluca Lonati (Nour) at the helm. Start with snacks like smoked oyster taramasalata, raw beef with lupini and baharat, or a Moreton Bay bug borek with daggah ghazzawieh, before moving to small plates like a tuna kibbeh nayeh, tongue shawarma skewers and woodfired chicken manti with whey. Larger dishes include whole blue grouper masgouf with tamarind and tomato, a dry-aged carob duck crown, merguez-stuffed lamb saddle and an 800-gram wagyu rib eye cooked on the bone. Drinks are equally expressive, with sommelier Sasa Savic curating a 130-plus-bottle wine list alongside playful signatures like a watermelon martini, arak elderflower spritz and jaffa margarita — all just as suited to slow afternoons in the garden as they are to lingering dinners inside. [caption id="attachment_1053489" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Vincent Yeung[/caption] Images: Vincent Yeung.
The Lord of the Rings is turning 25 in 2026 — and one of the many ways you can celebrate a quarter century since the destruction of the One Ring is by listening to a candlelit rendition of its legendary score. The soundtracks of the fantasy films to end all fantasy films will get a string quartet treatment in cities across Australia thanks to Candlelight®: The Lord of the Rings. Presented by Fever and Warner Bros. Discovery Global Experiences, the intimate concert series will recreate the iconic scores composed by Howard Shore in a smaller scale, but just as emotionally sweeping, format. From the humble tunes of the Shire to the stirring sounds of the plains of Rohan, and beyond, it's a trip to Middle-earth that you won't be forgetting any time soon. Tickets are limited, but you can join the waitlist now. "We are proud to be partnering with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Experiences to host this unforgettable Candlelight concert series celebrating such a significant milestone as the 25th anniversary of The Lord of the Rings," said Isabel Solano, Global Vice President of Original Experiences at Fever. "With Candlelight®: The Lord of the Rings, we're paying tribute to the epic music from the timeless classic that continues to inspire generations and reinforcing our mission to make classical music accessible to every audience while celebrating some of the world's greatest composers." Candlelight®: The Lord of the Rings will be coming to Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney throughout early 2026. Adelaide shows will take place across two nights in February at the Capri Theatre, with Perth to follow at shows in March and April at Perth Town Hall. Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane dates are yet to be confirmed, but will take place at the Sydney Masonic Centre, Collingwood Town Hall and Saint John's Anglican Cathedral, respectively. For more information, or to join the waitlist for 'Candlelight®: The Lord of the Rings', visit the Fever website.
It's almost that time again, Sydneysiders: time for movies to compete with Mrs Macquaries Point's stunning view of Sydney Harbour. Every summer, the scenic spot's vista over the water, city, Opera House and Harbour Bridge gets a 350-square-metre screen showing the latest and greatest flicks — and Westpac Openair Cinema has just revealed its complete 2024 program. Film lovers already knew that Sofia Coppola's Priscilla will open the outdoor picture palace's big summer return, and that Ferrari, Next Goal Wins and Poor Things are among the movies on Westpac Openair Cinema's lineup as well. They all have company, including the also previously unveiled Barbie and Amelie. Big-name titles abound, whether you're keen to see the Sydney premiere of The Dry sequel Force of Nature: The Dry 2 or can't wait for the new Mean Girls musical — or just think that Saltburn would look spectacular in the venue's surroundings. Running from Wednesday, January 10—Tuesday, February 20, Westpac Openair Cinema will also show May December, which stars Natalie Portman- (Thor: Love and Thunder) and Julianne Moore (Sharper); scandal-fuelled comedy Wicked Little Letters, as led by The Lost Daughter costars Olivia Colman (Heartstopper) and Jessie Buckley (Women Talking); and Nicolas Cage (Renfield) in Dream Scenario, where the inimitable actor plays an ordinary man who starts haunting the world's slumbers. Or, you can look forward to theatre and the screen combining via National Theatre Live: Dear England, featuring Joseph Fiennes (The Handmaid's Tale) — plus sublime Japan-set Oscar contender Perfect Days from iconic German filmmaker Wim Wenders (Submergence). Other highlights span wrestling drama The Iron Claw, with Zac Efron (The Greatest Beer Run Ever), Jeremy Allen White (Fingernails) and Harris Dickinson (A Murder at the End of the World) leading the cast; Paul Mescal (Foe) and Andrew Scott (His Dark Materials) getting swooning in All of Us Strangers; the new version of The Color Purple; the George Clooney-directed The Boys in the Boat; and war veteran tale The Great Escaper, which could be Michael Caine's (Best Sellers) last performance. Or, there's Bradley Cooper (Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3) both starring in and directing Leonard Bernstein biopic Maestro, Ridley Scott (House of Gucci) reteaming with Joaquin Phoenix (Beau Is Afraid) for Napoleon, and Paul Giamatti (Billions)-led and Alexander Payne (Downsizing)-helmed comedy The Holdovers. The list goes on, complete with the already-released Past Lives, Oppenheimer, Dumb Money and Mission: Impossible — Dead Reckoning Part One also set to screen. Among the classic picks, Pretty Woman and The Notebook will also score a whirl. As for the snacks — because Westpac Openair Cinema is also about the dining experiences — you'll be nabbing a bite at Summer House Dining, Chandon Garden and Mike & Friends at The Point. As happens every year, tickets are likely to go quickly when they go on sale on Monday, December 11. Across the summer of 2018–19, more than 40,000 tickets sold within the first two days of pre-sale, for instance — so put it in your diary ASAP. Westpac Openair 2024 runs from Wednesday, January 10—Tuesday, February 20, with Westpac pre sales from 9am AEDT on Monday, December 4 till 5pm AEDT on Wednesday, December 6, then general tickets on sale from 9am AEDT on Monday, December 11 — head to the cinema's website for further details. Images: Fiora Sacco, Chris Grundy, Andrew Maccoll and Nikki To.
Occupying the ground floor of the Terrigal Pavilion, The Tropic brings a polished, Mediterranean-leaning dining room to one of the Central Coast's most coveted waterfront addresses. The 280-seat restaurant boasts uninterrupted ocean views, with custom floor-to-ceiling windows and a mirrored back wall ensuring every seat gets a slice of the coastline. The sprawling space channels relaxed coastal glamour, from yellow terrazzo tabletops paired with linen directors' chairs to a striking, custom-glazed 12-metre bar finished in lemon-hued Spanish tiles and an oversized bullnose edge. Soft finishes and pared-back tones complete the timeless seaside feel, while a private dining room — kitted out with pink and yellow marble tables — offers set menus starting at $80. [caption id="attachment_1056652" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Megann Evans Photography[/caption] In the kitchen, a Modern Australian share menu takes cues from the Med. To start, expect shucked-to-order oysters with chardonnay mignonette, beef tartare with capers, quail egg yolk and a house dressing, alongside antipasto like burrata-crowned pesto and pickled white and brown anchovies. Larger plates include lightly seared goldband snapper, grilled wagyu flank and thyme-and-lemon roast chicken, all designed to be passed around the table. A celebration-ready drinks list rounds things out, spanning more than 90 bottles of champagne and wine — including magnums — alongside house cocktails like a bergamot-spiked margarita and a handful of crowd-pleasing beers on tap. [caption id="attachment_1056653" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Megann Evans Photography[/caption] Images: Megann Evans Photography.
Music is about more than just a great tune — it also has the power to inform and inspire action. That's the idea behind the Environmental Music Prize — a $20,000 prize launched in 2022 awarded to artists exploring ideas around sustainability and conservation in their music. With voting open until Sunday, December 14, the public is invited to have their say on the tracks that get them reflecting on the importance of nature. Just choose three choice tunes and share them with your pals to help spread the word about music that speaks to the kind of world we want to live in. [caption id="attachment_1052482" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Debbie Hickey/Getty Images[/caption] "Music reminds us of what's at stake, but it also gives us hope," says Prize Founder Edwina Floch. "These songs capture the beauty of nature, the spirit of Country and the resilience of communities rising to protect it. Together, they form a powerful soundtrack for now." With the 30 finalist songs now revealed, each is jam-packed with lyrical meaning and taken to even greater heights with evocative music videos. Think King Stingray's Through the Trees, Angie McMahon's Mother Nature or DOBBY's Dirrpi Yuin Patjulinya, alongside dozens more. "Music connects where other messages can't," explains Floch. "By voting and sharing these songs, fans can help amplify the voices of artists shaping a more sustainable culture, because change begins in the stories we tell and the songs we sing." With this year's prize announced on Wednesday, December 17, the highest voted artist will join much-loved past winners like King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard and Xavier Rudd. Both donated the money to grassroots conservation initiatives, giving even more meaning to their songwriting prowess. Voting for the 2025 Environmental Music Prize closes on Sunday, December 14. Head to the website for more information.
School's not only out for summer, it's actually out forever, with the latest Year 12 cohort receiving their final ATAR results over the next week or two. While that's pretty daunting, Nandos is here to put you in a celebratory mood, serving free chicken and chips meals to help students ring in their results. The idea comes courtesy of a Melbourne-based student named Kyla, who saw Nandos in the UK giving Year 12 students a free feed as an end-of-year favour. Asking whether the much-loved Portuguese chicken brand could do the same for her and her friends, the restaurant stepped up to shout students across Australia. Whether you're seeking a 99.95 or just happy that you'll never have to sit another exam, free chicken and chips is the great academic equaliser. Available to the first 100 students at each participating restaurant, just show your student card to score a free meal, featuring a quarter chicken, regular chips and a 600ml Coke Zero. Held on the ATAR release date in most states — Victoria is up first on Thursday, December 11 — there will be 30 locations around the country keen to take your order. So, grab your pals and celebrate (or commiserate) your score — just know that pretty much no one will speak of them again in a couple of years' time.
For the people who care deeply about beautiful things — the ones who know their glassware silhouettes, have opinions on timber grains or can spot a well-cut bag from across a room — design-forward gifts always land best. This year's edit brings together thoughtful pieces from Australian makers and independent studios, spanning sculptural homewares, tactile accessories, sustainable fashion and objects that balance form with function. Whether they're curating their space piece by piece or simply appreciate good design in the everyday, these polished picks offer style, utility and a little artistic flair. Shopping for someone who prefers edible design? Explore our guide to the best small-batch foodie gifts. Balance Vase, Fazeek A sculptural glass vase that plays with symmetry and scale, this two-tone design turns a simple stem into a full display moment. Shop now. The Baguette Bag, Fred Home A bag made purely for carrying a baguette? Equal parts outrageous and totally gorgeous. Shop now. Incense Holder Bundle, Gentle Habits A ceramic holder paired with the brand's signature coastal-inspired incense blends. Shop now. Merino Alpaca Throw in Cobalt, Hommey A luxe throw woven from merino wool and alpaca, in a punchy cobalt tone to instantly elevates any space. Shop now. Ulna Ring (Emerald), Kto Made in Castlemaine, this cuttlefish-cast silver ring is a sculptural addition to any design lover's collection. Shop now. Roman Pool Towel, Baina A premium organic cotton towel featuring Baina's signature checkerboard pattern. Shop now. Sculptural Lobster Candle, Milligram A candle shaped like a lobster — do we need to say more? Witty, sculptural and very giftable. Shop now. Pin Drop Vessel, Leisa Wharington A playful hand-blown glass vessel with mix-and-match stoppers. Make it a bottle, a vase, or simply an objet d'art. Shop now. The Bronzing Duet, Fluff Fluff's unmistakable silver pebble compact, paired with a matching kabuki brush and a refillable bronzing powder. Shop now. Plaid Bag, Pan After A durable, handmade statement bag in bold woven plaid — made from 100 percent recycled nylon. Shop now. MECCA x E Nolan SPF + Lip Balm Beauty Bag Set, MECCA Cosmetica A fashion-meets-beauty collab pairing everyday essentials with a limited-edition scrunchie and pouch. Shop now. Long Stone Servers, Dinosaur Designs Hand-poured in Australia, these resin servers showcase Dinosaur Designs' signature organic forms and rich marbled colour. Shop now. Sakura Outdoor Mat, Sunnup Made from around 100 recycled polypropylene bottles, this picnic mat is as durable as it is chic. Shop now. Organica Day Bag, Brie Leon Spacious enough for daily essentials but refined enough for after-dark plans — and crafted from buttery vegan leather. Shop now. Mother of Pearl Oyster Plate, Jardan Crafted in Melbourne and slipcast to highlight natural texture, this Nattier oyster plate offers a fun take on functional serveware. Shop now. Organic Cotton Bedding in Watson Stripe, Sheet Society Soft, stonewashed organic cotton and quiet ruched detailing give this percale bedding set a refined, lived-in feel. Shop now. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence our recommendations, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
Dog owners have to roll the dice one too many times when it comes to property. What if your furry companion doesn't take to the space? Is it pet-friendly by design or by legal requirement? It makes a big difference, and our pets deserve to be just as comfortable at home as we are. It's an ethos at the heart of HOME Parramatta — Sydney's first renter and pet-friendly apartments that are so dog-friendly, they can even come to the inspections. In Parramatta, 42 percent of households own a dog, but only one in six Sydney rental properties allow pets. This Parramatta property is HOME's first in NSW, but with 2500 residents and 300-plus pets in Victoria's Docklands, Southbank and Richmond developments, the brand is looking to bring its blend of comfort, wellness and elevated amenities to two and four-legged residents in Sydney's second CBD. [caption id="attachment_1054116" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Hugo Agency[/caption] The Doggy HOME Tours are the first taste of that, inviting prospective residents to explore the built-to-rent property with their dog in tow (or the other way around, if the dog is really enjoying it). Accompanying pooches will also get to visit the rooftop lawn, enjoy some pampering at the on-site pet spa, pick their own pet perfume, and sample some of the finest treats for the best boys and girls — joint supplement chews from Dog Years. HOME Parramatta is a 1932 square metre property, built of 435 residences, ranging from studios to three-bedroom apartments. You might have seen the 48-storey tower when passing through, and residents inside can see as far as the city to the east and the Blue Mountains in the west. Human amenities (because you're living there too) include an indoor pool, gym, spa, coworking space, and a landscaped lawn with an outdoor projector screen. [caption id="attachment_1054117" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Hugo Agency[/caption] Should you choose to join the community, there'll be more special offers to come for you and your dog. In FY25, HOME hosted over 250 events for residents, many of which were pet-friendly, along with a dedicated program of pet events — including pet obedience tips, a pet cartoonist, meet-ups at local parks, and pet treat sampling opportunities. HOME Parramatta is located at 116 Macquarie Street, Parramatta. For more information or to book a tour, visit the website.
Dread it, run from it, actively expect it or celebrate its arrival — Spotify Wrapped arrives all the same. It's the biggest day of the year for admitting to music tastes, when we crack open the statistics and see what we've been listening to by the numbers. Here's hoping we've moved on from the pink pilates princess era. For Wrapped Day 2025, Spotify is taking the fun out of your Instagram stories with a series of IRL activations. Celebrating some of the biggest bands in the game, Spotify is taking over four locations in Sydney today with events themed around specific artists, designed for their fans. First up is something anyone in the Eastern Suburbs or CBD won't miss. Australian listeners love their dance music — streams of dance songs went up by 409 million in Australia — so Sydneysiders best keep their eyes on the skies for CYRIL and the Spotify helicopter flying around from 6am to 9.30am. Next is for all the 5SOS fans. At World Square from 12–6pm, you'll find the 5SOS (Everyone's A) Star Walk, where you can add your handprints to the band's own in the 5SOS Walk of Fame. If 5SOS is in your top artists for Wrapped, you'll be able to walk away with a gift bag signed by the band, or you can snap a picture of the Walk of Fame to get it printed on a limited edition keyring. Once the Wrapped Day dust has settled on Saturday, December 6, in the Pitt Street Mall, you can flex your hours spent listening to any artist by showing your results to the staff at a Spotify pop-up. They'll then reward you with one of six unique keyrings with your hours engraved on it. That's one way to remember 2025. Over in Manly, Spotify is shining the light on the storied history of artists to come out of Sydney's Northern Beaches with a giant sand billboard dedicated to one of the latest stars of the area — Don West. West is one of Spotify's biggest rising artists of the year, whose music saw a 344% jump in listens throughout 2025. The billboard will be there from today through to Saturday, December 6. For more information on Spotify Wrapped, visit the website or app.
The iconic Sydney Fish Market is still gearing up for its grand reopening, but we know more and more about what to expect as every day goes by. The latest reveal? The market will be adding new guest tours to its offering come January, before the first cultural festival arrives with a celebration for the Lunar New Year. Visitors to the new Sydney Fish Market will have four new ways to explore it with a guide. The Behind the Scenes Tour will take you into the market's inner workings and see the famous auction in action, the Sydney Fish Market Discovery Tour will take you from wharf to newly renovated auction floor, the Tastes of the Sydney Fish Market tour will get you sampling the goods — and the Sunsets on the Wharf Tour focuses on the fishing aspect, and follows the fish from wharf to auction with drinks and canapès to finish by the water. Less than a month after opening, Sydney Fish Market will go all-out for the Lunar New Year, with celebrations and special offers to be found in every section of the market from Monday, February 16 to Sunday, February 22. Welcoming the Year of the Horse, Sydney Fish Market will be hosting cultural celebrations, including traditional lion dancers, while market retailers will be serving special LNY dishes like whole steamed fish, noodles, dumplings and other treats from Sydney's leading seafood chefs. Up in the Sydney Seafood School, there'll be guest appearances from Junda Khoo (Ho Jiak), Nat Thaipun (Vue de monde), Luke Bourke (Felons Seafood), and Somer Sivrioglu (Anason) alongside an expanded program of hands-on classes and specialty workshops for chefs of all experience levels. And as a part of the opening week celebrations, coinciding with LNY, the market will host a twilight Community Day on Friday, February 20, with free hosted tours, family-friendly activities, and more to be announced in the coming weeks. The Sydney Fish Market can be found on the corner of Pyrmont Bridge Road and Bank Street, Pyrmont. For more information, visit the website.
Launched in July, Bridge Street newcomer Ette Sydney has already captured the community with its fast fine-dining model. Now, the restaurant is bringing more excitement to Sydney's laneways with $10 happy hour specials and a $12 Ettespresso menu. Stop by on weekdays from 3.30–5.30pm to treat yourself to $10 limoncello spritz, house wine, prosecco or beer. Now, if that means clocking off work a little early, then so be it. Then, on Monday–Friday from 9–11pm, treat yourself to the espresso martini menu of your dreams. Choose from five bold twists on the classic espresso martini, including the mascarpone-infused Ettespresso, the spiced Double Black and the zesty chocolate orange. Headed up by acclaimed chef Adam Grimsley (ex-Icebergs, Jacksons on George), Ette's standout offering is its $9.50 snackEttes — punchy, rotating small plates like tuna tartare in a seaweed cone and charred lamb rib with baba ganoush. Heartier mains priced at $39 rotate daily under the Steak, Land, Sea and Grain menu, with current highlights including the yuzu beurre blanc-topped fish of the day and wild mushroom linguine finished with black truffle. The venue initially began as a weekday affair, but you can also now book in for Saturday dinner. Walk-ins are still welcome, but bookings are recommended. Open from Monday–Saturday until 2am, there's no excuse not to try the happy hour and espresso martini menu. Ette Sydney is open from Monday–Saturday from 11.30am-2pm. For more information, head to the website. Images: Steven Woodburn.
Hospitality workers are the backbone of our cities' night-time economies. After serving us behind the bar or recommending the chef's special that'll have you coming back for more, hospitality workers also keep the city open and thriving post-shift. From the quiet corners to the go-to bars and late-night venues that look after the people who look after everyone else, we tapped a couple of hospitality legends on the shoulder to learn where they head once the kitchen closes. After all, the night-time economy is a significant part of the Australian lifestyle. The Visa Vibe Economy report, commissioned by Visa and conducted by McCrindle, explores spending habits related to Australia's night-time economy, 32 percent of Australians consider going out "extremely" or "very important" to their lifestyle. It also found that nearly half of Australians go out after dark at least once a week, on average. Here's where the industry insiders in your city are heading. [caption id="attachment_810673" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Grana, Jiwon Kim[/caption] Alex Wong, Executive Chef at Hinchcliff House, Sydney: Lana, Grana, Apollonia, Bar Mammoni, Grana Privato CP: What do you love about the hospitality industry? Alex: I love this industry for the people and the lifestyle. I love being busy, being able to express myself through food, and working alongside like-minded people — there's a real sense of camaraderie and adrenaline that comes with it. You meet so many different people from all walks of life. It's given me confidence, taught me how to stand up for myself, and to grab every opportunity that comes my way. CP: Where do you head after a long shift? Alex: After a long shift or a big Saturday night, I love heading to Mamas on Pitt Street for some soju and supper — their fishcake soup hits perfectly in winter with a few bottles of soju. Super Bowl is another great late-night spot; their Hong Kong–style curry fish balls, noodles, and BBQ meats really slap. If there's time (and energy), a sneaky karaoke session after never hurts. CP: What's your favourite thing about your city after dark? Alex: I've always been a night owl. I love the calm that comes with night — and the little bit of chaos, too. Sydney after dark has so much to offer: great bars for a drink or nightcap, incredible restaurants and wine bars, or just soaking up the city lights. The Friday night Chinatown markets are a classic foodie stop, and walking across the Harbour Bridge at night never gets old. [caption id="attachment_1006447" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Baptist Street, Alana Dimou[/caption] Mahbub Hasan, CBD Precinct Bars Leader for House Made Hospitality, Sydney CP: What do you love about the hospitality industry? Mahbub: The chance to create moments that actually mean something to people. It's noticing small details, picking up on what someone needs without them having to ask, and making them feel looked after. I love that a bit of genuine care can turn a random interaction into a memory. There's something special about watching someone walk in tired and stressed from their day, and leave softer, lighter, and happier. That little shift, that connection, is the reason I keep showing up. CP: Where do you head after a long shift? Mahbub: After a late shift in the city, I love decompressing somewhere with soul. Often, that means making my way to Baptist Street Rec. Club in Redfern — great energy, familiar faces, and the perfect spot to shake off work mode. If I'm in the mood for a proper vibe shift, Disco Pantera hits the spot. It has music loud enough to reset your brain and cocktails good enough to make you forget how tired you are. When I want to stay closer to home, I keep it local. Sometimes it's The Vic on the Park, nothing fancy, just comfort and that Inner West feeling. Other nights I'll drift down Enmore Road. And there are nights where I just want to be home-adjacent, so I'll end up in Newtown. Bar Planet for a martini, or Silvers Motel for something slower. Those places remind me that there's a world outside of work. Real people, real community. CP: What's your favourite thing about your city after dark? Mahbub: Sydney at night feels like a different city. No suits, chaos drops away, and everything slows down. You start to notice things, little conversations, laughter spilling out of small bars, chefs and bartenders having their first breath of freedom outside the venue. It feels like a secret world that only exists after everyone else goes home, a world for the night people, hospitality people, and wanderers. [caption id="attachment_795639" align="alignleft" width="1920"] The Gresham, Millie Tang[/caption] Jaeden Ogston, Bartender, The Gresham, Brisbane CP: What do you love about the hospitality industry? Jaeden: I love hearing people's stories and enjoy the little moments of sonder. Hospitality, and especially working at The Gresham, allows me to meet and engage with such a diverse range of people that I would otherwise never meet. Whether they're regulars or just passing through, it's something really special to be able to connect and create memorable moments for people. CP: Where do you head after a long shift? Jaeden: Straight to Frogs Hollow. It's an authentic Country Saloon Bar that does good times perfectly. It's somewhere I know I can go to see familiar faces, and round out a long day with a 'hell yeah'. The bartenders provide some of the best hospitality in Brisbane and are among the most beautiful people I know. Frogs Hollow also has a rad bourbon selection and Brisbane's best XXXX Gold on tap. Other than that, it'd be Savile Row in Fortitude Valley (just look for the orange door). It's an awesome London-esque speakeasy-style bar that has a back-bar for days. It's cosy yet uptempo, and once again, the staff are not only legends of their trade but also wonderful people themselves. Whilst you're on that side of town, also check out Barry Parade Public House, which just celebrated its first anniversary. The owner, Dan, used to be my boss at The Gresham, and he's taken his love of vintage spirits, classic cocktails and soul food, and he and co-owner Brennan have made it into a beautiful, neighbourhood bar. [caption id="attachment_946892" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Frogs Hollow[/caption] CP: What's your favourite thing about your city after dark? Jaeden: Brisbane, in the grand scheme of things, is still a small city. What's beautiful about this is that if I ever just feel like going out and exploring and seeing where the night takes me, I know I'll bump into a familiar face on either side of the bar. Also, you can walk to almost everything... and whatever vibe you're looking for, whether it's a dive, speakeasy, jazz club or brewery, it's right at your fingertips. [caption id="attachment_932926" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Dear Saint Eloise[/caption] Frankie Stanley, Events and Marketing Manager at The London Hotel, Sydney CP: What do you love about the hospitality industry? Frankie: I love that hospitality is all about people! Meeting people, connecting with them, and being part of their day or night. It's fast, unpredictable and addictive in the best way. Unlike many office jobs, you might be running up 48 flights of stairs on a random Monday, but there is nothing more satisfying than the energy when a room is full of happy people and everything is running smoothly. CP: Where do you head after a long shift? Frankie: After a long shift, I love going to Potts Point or Darlinghurst to their many small wine bars. There's so much love in what they offer, and the vibes are always on point. Caravin and Dear Saint Eloise, both in Potts Point and The Waratah in Darlinghurst, are favourites! Gorgeous food, sexy drinks, and incredible staff. CP: What's your favourite thing about your city after dark? Frankie: I love Sydney after dark, especially as we move into summer. Longer days, warm nights, and everyone wanting to be out and about. With more councils approving outdoor seating, the city finally feels like it's leaning into that European, sit-out-and-soak-it-in vibe. The London just got its parklet approved after nine months and it has completely lifted the vibe. It's brought so much life to the street. I hope we see more of this across Sydney to keep nightlife thriving. Emma Sheahan, Front of House Manager, Lumen People, Melbourne CP: What do you love about the hospitality industry? Emma: Having guests sit at my table and connecting with them. I love meeting so many interesting people and working side by side with them. CP: Where do you head after a long shift? Emma: Brico or Lulie Tavern. Brico's food and wine are exceptional. What brings me back time and time again is their hospitality. I always walk in and feel immediate relief. I'm home. I'm cared for, no matter who I bring or why I'm there, they'll take care of us. Lulie is the champion of Melbourne music and community. It's been a huge part of my social life. Engagements, special birthdays, celebrations and sad times: Lulie always has a seat for you! The burgers are also really good. [caption id="attachment_868486" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Jake Roden[/caption] CP: What's your favourite thing about your city after dark? Emma: Melbourne's live music. I love living in a city big enough to support so many incredibly talented artists. Discover the vibe near you. Lead image credit: Bar Planet
When Ron's Upstairs opened on Redfern Street last year, the team left the space — which was previously occupied by longstanding Thai restaurant Pron Prohm — largely untouched. The panelled walls, the carpeted stairs and the (albeit altered) original sign out the front remain. The decision to keep these flourishes is a reminder that Redfern has changed rapidly in the last five years. Where dining options were limited to takeaway joints, there is now a rooftop bar, a corner wine bar and a ramen joint with a line snaking out the door. While some small bars like Arcadia Liquors and The Dock have been around for a while now, plenty of Redfern's restaurants and bars are brand spanking new. Here are the places worth checking out for dinner or a drink. Extra points to those that support the local arts community and erase the suburb's history altogether — even if it's just by keeping the sign out the front.
Sophomore albums can be notoriously tricky. They often arrive with built-in expectations: was the original a one-off, or has the talent evolved? Can the follow-up still command attention when the landscape has — inevitably — shifted, and new stars are vying for the spotlight? These questions loom even larger when the sequel lands more than two decades after a debut that's still considered a classic. Flaminia, the new harbourside restaurant from Giovanni Pilu and Marilyn Annecchini, answers these questions with quiet confidence. Perched above Circular Quay in the Pullman Quay Grand, it feels less like an attempt to outdo the pair's much-loved Pilu at Freshwater and more like a considered companion piece — a continuation of the same story rather than reinvention for its own sake. It also completes a trio of new venues from Accor's new in-house hospitality arm, Table For, following the launch of Bar Allora with The Maybe Group on Bond Street and, just upstairs from Flaminia, Acapulco El Vista, where The Maybe Group handles the drinks and Pilu oversees the food. [caption id="attachment_1051732" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nikki To[/caption] With a name taken from the ship that brought the Pilu family from Italy to Sydney in 1959, Flaminia is anchored in personal history and a sense of passage between shores. That idea carries through to the menu, which charts its way across Italy's great port cities as it presents start-to-finish culinary journeys through Caligari, Naples, Venice, Genoa and Palermo. It's a playful — and refreshingly transparent — structure that also puts local produce front and centre: the crudo selection, for example, features Spencer Gulf kingfish and Bermagui yellowfin, while mains include a Venitian-style murray cod, gently cooked with spinach, lemon and white wine, and an order-ahead maialetto arrosto— a slow-roasted Western Plains half suckling pig served with roast potatoes for groups of up to five. Drinks follow the same shoreline sensibility, tracing Italy's coast from Liguria down to Sicily with a focus on Sardinian varieties and the occasional antipodean label in the mix. Cocktails — like a lavender and Cynar spritz, a pesto-spiked bloody mary and a Mirto Rosso sour — are built for long lunches and sun-soaked aperitivo sessions. [caption id="attachment_1051756" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nikki To[/caption] It all takes place in a cleverly designed dining room by Studio Gram, where soft timber, textured stone and sculptural curves subtly reference a ship's interior without ever lapsing into theme, and creating an atmosphere that feels relaxed but polished. There's an ease to it all — the kind that comes from a team no longer trying to prove anything. If Pilu at Freshwater was the breakout debut, Flaminia feels like the confident follow-up. [caption id="attachment_1051728" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nikki To[/caption] Images: Nikki To.
Sydney Theatre Company has lifted the curtain on Folio, an appropriately dramatic bar and supper club set inside the Roslyn Packer Theatre. Inspired by the great theatre bars and speakeasies of New York, the sleek Walsh Bay venue is designed to be far more than a pre-show pitstop, welcoming anyone in search of an elegant hideaway for cocktails, bar snacks and late-night conversation. Designers Like Minds Studio have wrapped the room in a rich palette of plums, reds and golds, creating an atmosphere that evokes sitting inside a negroni. Plush velvet banquettes, chrome-edged tables and an ornate walnut-and-marble bar form a warm, enveloping backdrop, while deep-plum leather drapery reimagines the classic stage curtain as a central motif. Soft lighting and an amphitheatre-like seating arrangement set the tone for lively pre-show drinks and intimate nightcaps alike, backed by modern jazz and the occasional DJ or live set. The sense of theatre extends to a cocktail menu by award-winning bar consultant Charlie Ainsbury. Reimagined classics anchor the offer: the House Bellini, for example, sees seasonal fruit sorbet and prosecco whisked to order at the bar, while the ice-cold Flame of Love martini is poured tableside and finished with a flamed orange zest. The Infinity Old Fashioned presents a tempting proposition for whisky fans — a build-your-own old fashioned in which your chosen whisky is mixed with a mother blend of every whisky on the back bar, ensuring no two pours are ever the same. The food offering takes its cues from late-night supper clubs — like the cocktails, the menu is built around familiar dishes given a contemporary spin. Start with cold cuts from LP's Quality Meats or Yamba prawns roasted with curry mayo, before moving to heartier fare like David Blackmore wagyu lasagna crowned with truffle pecorino, the hefty Folio Burger stacked with Pino's smoked bacon and served with a fried pickle, or playful late-night classics like poutine, buttermilk fried chicken and confit garlic bread. Dessert keeps the drama going, led by a chocolate mousse with whisky miso caramel served tableside from a big bowl. Open Wednesday to Saturday (and whenever performances run), Folio sits in the heart of the Walsh Bay Arts Precinct, adding an elegant and quietly theatrical new layer to one of Sydney's most beloved cultural neighbourhoods. [caption id="attachment_1053282" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Trent van der Jagt[/caption] Images: Trent van der Jagt.
The Coogee Bay Hotel has taken pride of place on the suburb's spectacular beachfront for over 150 years. It's a proper local drinking and dining institution that has, for decades, played a big part in Coogee's community — whether via its never-ending lineup of events (David Bowie, INXS, and the Foo Fighters are just some of the acts who have graced its stage over the years) or sponsoring local swim clubs and charities. But on most days of the week, locals and visitors alike flock to this oceanfront watering hole to spend long days and nights out with mates in one of the many drinking and dining spaces. Arguably, the sprawling openair Garden is the most highly coveted spot of Coogee Bay Hotel. Nab a sun-soaked table and order rounds of drinks alongside pizzas, burgers and share plates — think oysters, buffalo wings and antipasto plates — as you take in the ocean view just steps away and live acoustic sets on weekends. For more intimate gatherings, groups of up to 15 can hire a cabana overlooking Coogee Beach, which comes with dedicated waitstaff. Head inside to escape the heat (or hide from the rain) at Arden Lounge — and enjoy all the same food and drinks that are available outside. Open on Friday and Saturday nights, the space is great for spontaneous hangs, but it's tailor-made for hosting parties: the whole room (with its own private bar) can be transformed to fit just about any event you're keen to host. As of November 2025, the Coogee Bay Hotel is also home to Beach Bar & Dining, a breezy Mod Oz diner helmed by ex-Mimi's Executive Chef Justin Schott (who also worked alongside the legendary Heinz Beck at Michelin-starred London venue Aspleys). With bookings available for lunch and dinner seven days a week, the airy, sun-washed space overlooking the beach serves up a seasonal menu of produce-driven share plates like crab and mussel rigatoni, pan-roasted salmon with Russian beet salad and dill butter and a ceviche of the day. A bright drinks list includes signatures like a coconut and yuzu margarita and a pineapple old fashioned, alongside a globetrotting wine list. Beyond all this, you can also hit up the late-night sports bar (complete with 15 big screens and two mega-screens) or spend a few nights in one of the venue's stylish hotel rooms. Make sure to stay across The Bay's website and Insta feed for up-to-date info on live music and special events too, including at on-site concert venue Selina's. Coogee Bay Hotel is a one-stop-shop kind of hospitality venue, with the breezy beachfront setting Sydney is renowned for.
Nestled into the sleepy suburb of south Sydney's Grays Point, Jack Gray is a cafe by day and a wine bar by night. Open for coffee seven days a week and drinks on Fridays and Sundays, the venue is an exciting opening for The Shire, with top-notch eats, an exciting wine list and live music all in one place. Jack Gray is the passion project of owner Ben Coombes who wanted to turn his neighbourhood cafe into a community hub for Grays Point. "Our focus is to bring people together, whether it be with coffee or wine," says Coombes. Located on the edge of the Royal National Park, the cafe is an ideal stop for breakfast for anyone heading towards local parks, hikes or the nearby Pork Hacking River, as well as a reliable pitstop for locals on the hunt for their morning coffee. The all-day menu features breakfast classics done well. There are scrambled eggs with caramelised leek, vintage cheddar and sourdough; bacon and egg rolls made with Ironbark bacon and house-made apple and tomato relish; or banana crepes with vanilla bean ricotta, maple toasted almonds and dulce de leche. There's also a selection of loaded deli rolls that won't set you back CBD prices. Pick up a takeaway ricotta, caramelised onion, manchego cheese and mushroom breaky roll or a smoked salmon bagel. Come wine bar afternoons every Friday and Sunday, the baristas transform into bartenders and the focus becomes cocktails. There's, of course, a wine list that balances crowd-pleasers and interesting varieties including regional NSW pét-nats and "funky" South Australian reds. Accompanying the drinks are share plates of bar snacks like hummus or a peach and burrata salad, and soft-shell tacos. Crafted on locally made corn torillas, the tacos feature toppings like barbecue chorizo with tomatillo chimi churi, and irresistible vegetarian option that combines roast pumpkin, spiced cauliflower, avocado, salsa and pickles. Appears in: The Best Cafes in Sydney
The beer festival scene will look a little different in 2026, as one of the country's premier events, GABS, or the Great Australasian Beer SpecTAPular, is being paused for the year. But don't fear, the announcement comes with the assurance that it will return in 2027 with a reimagined format that does the event's legacy justice. The news was revealed by Dr Jerry Schwartz, owner of Sydney Brewery, whose Schwartz Family Company (SFC) recently followed up on a 2023 investment in GABS with a full takeover. While events in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane are being restructured over the next 12 months, regional events in Canberra and the Hunter Valley are moving ahead unchanged. "The craft beer landscape has never been more challenging, but we are confident that with fresh new ideas and the support and expertise of our extensive craft beer and hospitality network, GABS will remain the benchmark for craft beer promotion in Australia," said Dr Schwartz in a statement. Founded in 2011, GABS has built a stellar reputation for showcasing the best of Australia's boundary-pushing independent brewers. Yet in recent years, some regulars have felt that the festival has lost the atmosphere that once made the event so special, not helped by numerous smaller brewers turning away due to the high cost of attending. "We have plenty of great plans, but we always listen and learn from our partners involved in our festivals. We plan to reassess the venues, timings of festivals, even the number of sessions, and possibly add cider and spirits to the events, so that we can grow the customer base and provide a memorable experience," said Dr Schwartz. As for the ever-popular GABS Hottest 100, the poll is going ahead as usual, with beer-lovers invited to vote for their favourite five breweries until Sunday, January 11, 2026. With Mountain Culture Status Quo completing the three-peak in 2024, becoming just the second brewery to do so, only time will tell if a new champion claims boozy bragging rights. GABS Festival is expected to return to Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane in 2027. Head to the website for more information.
The way we see it, there are two types of people in the world. First, there are the early risers: those who spring out of bed, salute the rising sun, and throw themselves into the new day with all the gusto and impatience of those raring to get things done. The second group are the nocturnal creatures. Eyes bleary, hair a mess, they arise with a guttural grumble that dissipates only post-double espresso and undisturbed review of the morning paper. In our experience, the one thing that truly unites the early birds and the night owls, regardless of the time of morning, is a deep and enduring love for a hearty breakfast spread. So far, Concrete Playground has brought you Sydney's best brunches, her most delicious a la carte breakfasts and her winning hangover breakfasts. Today, we continue our love letter to the most important meal of the day with a round-up of Sydney's unbeatable breakfast buffets. GRANDMA'S LITTLE BAKERY Best for: A relaxed Saturday morning breakfast with family or friends. If all the Jewish grandmas got together to make one phenomenal breakfast spread, this would be it. Fluffy, homemade spinach and cheese bourekas compete for space on your plate with oven-fresh rolls, fleshy and colourful heirloom tomatoes, creamy pumpkin and zucchini frittatas and four different types of shakshouka. Fresh fruits and vegetables abound; they are sourced from the owners' farm in Collector, NSW and taste like they were picked the very same morning. You can also choose your own Mediterranean adventure, with a selection of hearty dips in tiny tasting plates, which include olive tapenade, hummus, feta sprinkled with za'atar and smoky baba ganoush. Be sure to leave enough space for a round of baked delicacies, like warm scones with farm-made jam and cream, tangy lemon tarts and flourless cakes that your gran would want the recipe for. Wrap it all up in quaint garden-party decor, Di Lorenzo coffee that packs a punch and a cost of only $20 per head (plus drinks) for all-you-can-eat goodness, and your perfect Saturday morning is sorted. 42 O'Riordan Street, Alexandria, Sat 8.30am – noon, www.grandmasbakery.com.au. CAFE OPERA Best for: Foodies who love quality and quantity in equal measures. Cafe Opera turns the breakfast buffet into an art form, with a la carte-quality dishes that showcase the unique talents of local producers. Take a crusty slice of Neu's handmade German bread and smear it generously with locally cultured Pepe Saya butter or honey off the comb, before moving onto a bowl of crunchy Barossa Valley muesli with a generous serve of organic yoghurt. Cafe Opera's executive chef Tamas Pamer takes breakfast seriously, and it shows. The sausages are fashioned from Tasmanian lamb and they burst with Moroccan-inspired flavours; the eggs are cooked to perfection no matter how you order them; and the impressive array of spiced, poached fruits, including pears, peaches and rhubarb, will warm even the frostiest of mornings. Set within the gorgeous sandstone Treasury Building that dates back to 1851, Cafe Opera is a classy location for a breakfast made from only the finest local ingredients. And the best bit? All of the leftover food gets whisked off by OzHarvest at the end of the morning to feed people in need. Intercontinental Sydney, 117 Macquarie Street, Sydney, Mon – Sun 6.30am – 10.30am, www.interconsydney.com.au/cafeopera. GLASS BRASSERIE Best for: A healthy, customisable breakfast buffet in a stunning CBD location When Luke Mangan is serving breakfast, we know to expect a lot, and Glass Brasserie at the Sydney Hilton doesn't disappoint. Fluffy hash browns, melt-in-your-mouth croissants and eggs whichever way you like them are highlights among a solid spread. Even better are the nifty design-it-yourself options that allow careful customisation of your breakfast experience. At the fresh juice bar, mountains of gorgeous seasonal fruits compete to be liquefied into your glass; the golden kiwi fruit and juicy rockmelon pieces had us at hello. The muesli stand offers another opportunity to create your own masterpiece, offering bowls heaped with grains, hazelnuts, dried apples, banana chips, almond slivers and raisins. Nestle in by the windows and watch the corporate types hurry past on George Street below, or marvel at the architectural beauty of the Queen Victoria Building across the street. Either way, you’ll leave feeling nourished, refreshed and ready to tackle the day. Hilton Sydney, 448 George Street, Sydney, Mon – Fri 6 – 10am, Sat – Sun 7 – 11am, www.glassbrasserie.com.au. THE WOODS Best for: A romantic breakfast date or a luxurious splurge with friends. The Woods is where you go when you want to feel pampered. Walk through the stunning marble entryway and into a forest-themed open restaurant where lush, mismatched pot plants and whimsical floral lights create an understated sylvan feel. Sip your morning roast to the sound of veteran pianist Michael's angelic melodies, and take a moment to review and appreciate the dainty and impeccably presented breakfast display. One countertop hosts a range of scrumptious home-style muffins, cakes and pastries; another offers plump sausages, herbed flat mushrooms and tender bacon. Or go bespoke and order a fluffy omelette, made while you watch and presented with an optional chilli kick. Look closely, and you'll find every condiment under the sun scattered throughout the buffet, from raspberry coulis to Nutella to chilli sauce. This attention to even the smallest of details sets The Woods apart as an especially lavish breakfast experience. Four Seasons Sydney, 199 George Street, Sydney, Mon – Fri 6:30 – 10am, Sat – Sun 6:30am – 11am, www.thewoodsrestaurant.com.au CAFE MIX Best for: A variety of bite-sized treats. What we love most about Cafe Mix is its dedication to all things miniature. From tiny tropical smoothies to mini muesli bars, fluffy corn fritters to baby chocolate croissants, if it's a cute and bite-sized breakfast treat, it's on the menu. Mini yoghurt tubs are accompanied by little fishbowls of compotes and coulis, tiny banana and carrot muffins are set out alongside a tray of pint-sized muesli bars, and little gourmet jam jars are presented beautifully at your table, offering interesting options like rose and apricot, Seville bitter orange, and garden strawberry. Many of the baked goods are prepared on-site and arrive on your plate warm and soft from the oven. Of course, breakfast is best accompanied by a suitably diminutive but punchy piccolo latte. Shangri-La Hotel Sydney, 176 Cumberland Street, The Rocks, Mon – Sun 6 – 10.30am, www.shangri-la.com BLUE Cafe Best for: A business breakfast in a chic location BLUE Sydney is an indisputably chic hotel and offers a breakfast buffet to match. Breakfast is laid out under the high gabled ceilings of the iconic Finger Wharf warehouse, with sleek standing heaters dispersed throughout the tables to bring cosiness to the enormous space. Highlights of the spread include hearty house-made baked beans and a delicious 'crunch pot' featuring layers of organic toasted granola, sweet yoghurt, mango puree and passionfruit coulis. Sleek, silver surfaces and stylish black and grey decor are lifted by bursts of colour: a bright bunch of flowers here, a dispenser of freshly squeezed 'detox' juice (watermelon, grape, orange and mint) there. BLUE Sydney gets down to business with breakfast, and is an ideal location for others to do the same. Blue Sydney, 6 Cowper Wharf Road, Woolloomooloo, Mon – Fri 6.30 – 11am, Sat – Sun 7am – 12pm, www.tajhotels.com. FEAST Best for: A holiday at home in Sydney. Feast, the recently refurbished restaurant at the Sheraton on the Park, offers a grand, traditional hotel breakfast. All the usual favourites are there, like herbed chicken sausages, sauteed mushrooms and eggs cooked to order by a cheerful chef named Alf. Every other day, Feast gets feisty with innovative interpretations of the morning meal. Most exciting is the breakfast pizza, served steaming from the stone hearth oven, heaped with crispy bacon, slices of sausage, eggs, mushrooms and cheese, and drizzled with a tangy barbecue sauce. Request a table by the storybook windows that overlook Hyde Park and watch the morning sun stream through the grand old fig trees and the twinkling water of the Archibald Fountain. You'll want nothing other than to head straight upstairs, change into a fuzzy bathrobe and spend the rest of the day lazing about in one of the hotel's stylish rooms. Sheraton on the Park, 161 Elizabeth Street Sydney, Mon – Sun 6.30 – 10.30am, www.feastsydney.com.au.
Voila! The Four Horsemen are hitting Australia, in magical news if you like illusionists and the Now You See Me film franchise. Back in 2018, it was announced that the Jesse Eisenberg (A Real Pain)-, Woody Harrelson (Last Breath)-, Dave Franco (Together)- and Isla Fisher (Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy)-starring cinema saga was making its way to the stage — and while that's proven the case elsewhere since, the IRL production will make its first trip to Australia before 2025 is out. Now You See Me Live doesn't feature the cast of the films, but gets real-life illusionists demonstrating their skills instead. Their Aussie stop: the Sydney Opera House Concert Hall across Friday, December 19, 2025–Saturday, January 3, 2026. Audiences will be able to see Adam Trent from the US, Enzo Weyne from France, Andrew Basso from Italy and Gabriella Lester from South Africa step into the Four Horsemen's shoes. From Trent, expect plenty of sleight of hand, while Weyne specialises in large-scale magic. Basso prefers death-defying acts and Lester is a master of Houdini's upside down straight-jacket escape. The ensemble have taken to the stage for residencies on Broadway and in Las Vegas, and also in hundreds of other cities. Now, it's Australia's turn. "Hosting an Australian-premiere season at the Opera House is always a thrill, and this show is a spectacle — perfect for anyone with an appetite to be wowed this summer. Now You See Me Live takes movie magic to a whole new level of drama in this high-stakes live experience," said Brenna Hobson, Sydney Opera House Director, Programming, announcing the shows. Added Simon Painter, the production's Creative Producer, "Now You See Me Live pushes the boundaries of stage magic to the absolute edge, making the impossible possible in front of your very eyes. Together we've created a show with truly mindblowing artistry at epic scale and we can't wait for Sydney audiences to experience the magic — live!" 2025 is a big Now You See Me year: a new movie in the franchise is on its way to cinemas, too, with Now You See Me: Now You Don't releasing in Aussie picture palaces on Thursday, November 13, 2025. Check out the trailer for Now You See Me Live below: Now You See Me Live is playing the Sydney Opera House Concert Hall across Friday, December 19, 2025–Saturday, January 3, 2026. Head to the venue website for more information — with presale tickets from 9am on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 and general tickets from 9am on Wednesday, August 27, 2025.
Felons Brewing Co.'s impressive Manly craft brewery has just celebrated its first birthday. Yet the team is about to honour an even more important milestone — the reveal of Felons Barrel Room, a fully fledged live music venue complemented by Vietnamese-inspired cuisine and barrel-aged beers. Described as the final chapter in bringing the venue to life, you're invited to a three-day launch weekend stacked with free gigs alongside top-notch food and drink. To kick things off, neo-soul band Winston Surfshirt will take to the stage on Friday, December 5, from 7pm, bringing their trademark funk to the wharf. On Saturday, December 6, legendary Australian new wave band Mental As Anything will perform their hits for party-goers. Then, on Sunday, December 7, round out the party with a family-friendly afternoon that evolves into a takeover by Australian dance label Club Sweat. Catch the likes of James Pepper, Yolanda Be Cool, Bella Backe, and Joel Cantone as they bring plenty of heat to the dance floor. [caption id="attachment_1050833" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Winston Surfshirt[/caption] For those keen to experience this new era of Felons, they'll quickly discover the band room is no half-measure. Featuring a purpose-built audio and lighting system, the 700-person capacity venue will focus on showcasing local and emerging musical talent, instantly making the Barrel Room one of the premier live music venues on the Northern Beaches. Meanwhile, the space will host themed events throughout the week, from trivia nights to comedy shows and jazz evenings. The culinary offering also rises above, with a brand-new Vietnamese menu featuring dishes that complement Felons' barrel-aged beers. The menu by chefs Bao La and Ty Bellingham builds on the success of Vietnamese canteen Saigon Supper Inn, serving vibrant Vietnamese dishes full of bold flavours and fresh ingredients. [caption id="attachment_1050996" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Felons Manly[/caption] Head along to the opening weekend to be among the first to sip brews in Felons' Barrel Room. "With Felons Barrel Room, we're pairing great beer with vibrant Vietnamese food and live music to create a place alive with energy and possibility. It's our way of celebrating Manly, a destination that's as much about people as it is about place," says Dean Romeo, brand director of Felons Brewing Co. All of the gigs across the weekend are live and totally free; all you have to do is RSVP. Be sure to get in quick to nab your spot by the Manly Wharf and get ready to toast to summer and the Barrel Room's big debut. Register for Winston Surfshirt here. Register for Mental As Anything here. Register for Club Sweat here. Lead image: Supplied
Brunch cafes aren't typically the domain of fine-dining chefs, but Manteiga — from Bentley, Est. and Dinner by Heston alum Justin Martins — is rewriting that script. This Portuguese-inspired spot brings elevated daytime fare to a sunny Darlinghurst corner, framed by large arched windows and an inviting, timber-accented fitout that sets the stage for Martins' playful menu. On it, you'll find signatures like the Manteiga Muffin — daily stone-baked bolo lêvedo made to Martins' grandfather's recipe, served with fluffy eggs, American cheese, house sauce and your choice of double-smoked bacon or a sausage beef patty. Other highlights include the Iberian baked eggs, with Portuguese-style chorizo, salsa verde, golden capsicum and a fresh herb salad; and the signature ricotta pancakes, a cloud-like stack topped with strawberry gum compote, tonka bean and puffed grains. Come midday, you can tuck into the likes of a tempura fish burger on a soft milk bun, or the Summer Manteiga Bowl, a fresh soba noodle salad loaded with a veritable rainbow of veg, finished with pistachio dukkah and a zesty nam jim dressing. Wash it all down with Single O coffee or a house-made iced tea, poured in a room that's as bright and breezy as the menu. And while Manteiga is a purely daytime affair for now, Martins has plans for special pop-ups and intimate degustation dinners that'll showcase even more of his fine-dining pedigree.
Lunar New Year is famously a food-focused holiday. With celebrations traditionally stretching over about a two-week period, Lunar New Year dinner is one of the holiday's highlights. The dinner, which typically happens on the eve of Lunar New Year, is more accurately described as a feast — one where families gather, and the table teems with mouth-watering, home-cooked dishes. [caption id="attachment_987282" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Josh Mullins[/caption] We love a celebration at home centred around good food, so, in partnership with Oriental Merchant, we sought out expert advice from chef Jason Chan on what essentials to stock our pantries with for Lunar New Year and beyond. Not only is Chan the owner of Rice Kid, a newly opened pan-Asian restaurant inspired by the flavours of Southeast Asian cuisine, but he's also clocked up well over a decade as a chef in leading Chinese restaurants in Sydney. He snuck us into his pantry to show us exactly what he'll be cooking with come this Lunar New Year. Our best discovery? His go-to essentials aren't reserved exclusively for Lunar New Year — they're versatile ingredients that are just as invaluable for special celebrations as they are for midweek meals. [caption id="attachment_987274" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Josh Mullins[/caption] Surprisingly, Chan reveals that despite going all out on premium ingredients for Lunar New Year, he'll season them during the cooking process with everyday pantry staples. "Lunar New Year is more about the family gathering. You'll splurge and have things you don't normally have everyday, I think that's what makes it special. For our Lunar New Year feast, we usually have e-fu noodles, mudcrab, pipis — we go all out." On Capturing the Essence of Asian Cuisine The flavours of Asian cuisine though, are achieved with familiar products like "soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, Shaoxing [wine]." "Asian — Chinese — flavours [are] bold. I wouldn't use the word heavy, but it's flavoursome. It's every bite that you take. There's sweet, sour, bitter, salty, umami, you get the taste of all that." "I think that's what Asian cooking is all about, especially Chinese cooking, where there are so many different ingredients and so much variety [to choose between]. It's just packed with flavour." "In my pantry at the moment, I've got the Lee Kum Kee Panda Brand Oyster Sauce, the Lee Kum Kee Dark Soy Sauce, the Lee Kum Kee Premium Soy Sauce." [caption id="attachment_987275" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Josh Mullins[/caption] He also showed us his stash of Hakubaku noodles and Lee Kum Kee Chiu Chow Chilli Oil. "It's about what you can do with the ingredients out of the pantry to create something amazing," explains Chan. Some staples are genuine must-haves for Chan. "You can't cook without soy sauce, that's what I say. I think every household should have [it]." Meanwhile, others he believes are slept on. "I think oyster sauce is amazing ... it gives more body and more depth [to dishes]." [caption id="attachment_987280" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Josh Mullins[/caption] Ultimately though, it's not about a single ingredient. "It's more about how you incorporate everything together. I think every dish has a different element to it and every ingredient in our pantry, I think, works with a certain dish to enhance its flavour." On Making the Most of Pantry Essentials Chan says the special dishes of Lunar New Year can easily be translated into everyday dishes too." Let's say we did a lobster, for example, for Lunar New Year. How do you tone it down and still use all the pantry ingredients that you have? You choose a different protein. You might use fish, you might use prawns." The same applies to the e-fu Lunar New Year noodles he calls out. [caption id="attachment_987276" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Josh Mullins[/caption] "[You could substitute] egg noodles — thin egg noodles, thick egg noodles. If you're [feeling] brave, you can use ramen noodles, soba noodles, udon noodles. It's how far you want to explore, but they're all good." Experience the flavours of Lunar New Year everyday with Oriental Merchant authentic Asian ingredients.
Each of Sydney's best Italian restaurants is different in its own way. Many of the old-school institutions have been serving the same tried-and-trusted dishes for decades — after all, there's no need to reinvent food that's already been perfected. The service at these classic diners can either be laidback and homey or refined and romantic — simply choose your preferred vibe. And then you have the new wave of Italian eateries in Sydney. Treat yourself to fine dining degustations in converted lofts. Sip on negroni sbagliatos while your basil pesto is freshly made at your table. Or sample some innovative fusions as Italian fare is blended with cuisines from around the world. Whether you're craving tiramisu served by the scoop, pasta dishes swimming in rich sauce or fresh-baked focaccia still warm from the oven, these are the Sydney Italians that can give you your fix. Recommended reads: The Best Pizza in Sydney The Best French Restaurants in Sydney The Best Restaurants in Sydney The Best Wine Bars in Sydney
Get with the times: Salomons no longer belong to the back trails. And to prove that point even further, the French sports brand has teamed up with much-loved indie pop duo Royal Otis for a free surprise gig in the heart of Bondi. Held on Friday, December 19, in a soon-to-be-revealed location, this brand-new partnership is all about living in the moment. With that in mind, the gig is phone-free, giving the band's biggest fans the chance to tune out from their devices and into the experience. However, the moment won't just live on in your memory. Salomon has also assembled a team of photographers to capture the event, with every attendee receiving the full photo album the following day to relive their encounter with this homegrown Sydney band. Ready to score tickets? Head to the Salomon website to enter the draw — 400 lucky winners will be selected on Wednesday, December 17, receiving the inside word on the gig's secret location. Performing one last show in their hometown for 2025, be present in more ways than one for this Royal Otis send-off.
An expansive venue open from breakfast until late has taken over the former digs of Jet Cafe inside Sydney's century-old Queen Victoria Building. The historic George Street building constructed in 1898 is a popular thoroughfare for commuters travelling to and from Town Hall Station and is home to boutique retail tenants and a wide range of food and drink offerings ranging from cheap and cheerful takeaway to fine dining. Manon, an all-day European brasserie, comes from Marco Ambrosino (Fratelli Paradiso) and Manny Spinola, the team behind Bondi's new 94-seat Mediterranean restaurant and bar, Lola's Level 1. "I have walked past the site for 24 years, dreaming of opening a grand cafe," Spinola says. "I am so thrilled to be in partnership with Marco to bring a French brasserie to the QVB. Manon will be a place to sit and people-watch while enjoying French cuisine, giving customers a taste of the European lifestyle whether it's at breakfast before work, a long lunch or an ambient dinner." Starting with breakfast, takeaway coffee and pastries are available from 6am. Visitors can also nab a table and enjoy a seated breakfast full of a mix between French and Australian morning favourites. [caption id="attachment_858437" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Queen Victoria Building[/caption] There's a range of viennoiseries and baguettes, including pain au chocolat croissants ($5.50) and a goat's cheese toastie made with croissant dough ($12) — plus breakfast hits like avocado and feta toast ($19), bloody marys (known as Bloody Marie Antoinettes here — $14), buckwheat crepes ($19) or crab on toast with remoulade, avocado and a poached egg ($28). Come lunchtime, you can choose from The Classics range that includes highlights from the breakfast menu and French bistro standouts like steak frites ($39). There's also a raw bar with oysters ($6.50), kingfish tartare ($28) and scallop carpaccio ($29); and extravagant mains ranging from pan-fried coral trout ($39) to one-kilogram rib-on-bone côte de boeuf ($190 for two people). From 5pm dinner follows a similar trajectory. The array of entrées includes bone marrow tartine ($18), snail meurette ($27) and grilled split prawns ($26). And the mains add canard a l'orange duck ($58) and cheesy crab souffle ($33) to highlights from lunch. Each Friday and Saturday, Manon offers up its services to those looking for a late-night feed, with weekend supper on offer following dinner. As expected for a luxe European brasserie in one of the city's most glitzy buildings, the fit-out is a sleek French-inspired design. The interior was a return to collaborator Chris Grinham who also worked on Lola's. "Marco and Manny's vision coupled with this site is a dream for us to work with and create something," Grinham said. "There's an alluring romanticism set within this design — so too a heady dollop of unique 'French' appeal." [caption id="attachment_858433" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Monon team, Nikki To[/caption] Images: Nikki To
Nestled in the sleepy suburb of south Sydney's Grays Point, Jack Gray is a cafe by day and a wine bar by night. Open for coffee seven days a week and drinks on Fridays and Sundays, the venue is an exciting opening for The Shire, with top-notch eats, an exciting wine list and live music all in one place. The venue is the passion project of owner Ben Coombes who wanted to turn his neighbourhood cafe into a community hub for Grays Point. "Our focus is to bring people together, and whether it be with coffee or wine," says Coombes. Located on the edge of the Royal National Park, the cafe is an ideal stop for breakfast for anyone heading towards local parks, hikes or the nearby Pork Hacking River, as well as a reliable pitstop for locals on the hunt for their morning coffee. The all-day menu features breakfast classics done well. There are scrambled eggs with caramelised leek, vintage cheddar and sourdough; bacon and egg rolls made with Ironbark bacon and house-made apple and tomato relish; or banana crepes with vanilla bean ricotta, maple toasted almonds and dulce de leche. There's also a selection of loaded deli rolls that won't set you back CBD prices. Pick up a takeaway ricotta, caramelised onion, manchego cheese and mushroom breaky roll or a smoked salmon bagel. Come wine bar afternoons every Friday and Sunday, the baristas transform into bartenders and the focus shifts to cocktails. The wine list balances crowd-pleasers and interesting varieties including regional NSW pét-nats and "funky" South Australian reds. Accompanying the drinks are share plates of bar snacks like hummus or a peach and burrata salad, and soft-shell tacos. Served on locally made corn torillas, the tacos feature toppings like barbecue chorizo with tomatillo chimi churi, and an irresistible vegetarian option that combines roast pumpkin, spiced cauliflower, avocado, salsa and pickles. Jack Gray is located at 110 Grays Point Road, Grays Point. It's open for 6am–2pm Monday–Friday, 7am–2pm Saturdays and 7am–1pm Sundays. Wine bar afternoons are held from 6pm Fridays and 4pm Sundays.
Instantly recognisable in its freeform design and luminescent colours, Dinosaur Designs has become somewhat of a household name when it comes to homewares and jewellery. The Redfern store, Extinct, is the outlet and sample store, where you'll find discontinued designs. It is one of nine outposts for the brand, which also has stores in London and New York. The designs, spearheaded by creative directors Louise Olsen and Stephen Ormandy, have received acclaim via designer collaborations from the likes of Jac + Jack and Louis Vuitton. Resin remains its core material, with products — necklaces, bangles, bowls, jars, vases — meticulously handcrafted so not one object is ever the same as another.
Once, watching a movie in bed meant getting cosy indoors with whatever you choose to view on a small screen. Then Mov'In Bed came along. It takes the idea that catching a flick and lazing around on a mattress can go hand in hand, embraces it, and moves it outdoors. The crew behind it have delivered variations, too — on boats in Darling Harbour, in cars on Entertainment Quarter's rooftop and on sand at Barangaroo. Mov'In Bed initially debuted its outdoor beach cinema in January 2024. Unsurprisingly, it proved popular. Accordingly, Mov'In Bed Outdoor Cinema is returning to Harbour Park for another summer — this time for a hefty four-month run between Friday, November 28, 2025 through to April 2026. The concept behind Mov'In Bed has always answered a question: can't choose between hitting up an outdoor cinema or watching a film in bed? Here, you don't have to. The outdoor beach setup stacks on another layer to that equation like it's building a sandcastle. Can't pick between flicks under the stars, going to the beach or being cosy? Again, this is the solution. Here's how it works: you can park up on a king or queen-size mattress, or you can bring a towel to recline on on the sand. Whatever sits between you and all of those white grains beneath your feet, you'll be getting comfortable on top while peering at the 15-metre 4K screen silver screen and listening in via noise-cancelling headphones. The movie lineup features big names from 2025's cinema releases, including Regretting You, Tron: Ares, Twinless, One Battle After Another, A Big Bold Beautiful Journey, Wicked: For Good, Kiss of the Spider Woman, Now You See Me: Now You Don't and The Fantastic Four: First Steps. Given that the season runs over Christmas, yes, Elf and Love Actually, Home Alone, The Nightmare Before Christmas and Die Hard (yes, it's a Christmas movie) are on the bill as well. More movies will be announced for the beach club-style cinema, sticking to the above mix — so recent favourites and classics. This time around, there'll be 150 queen- and king-sized beds, all with pillows and blankets. Prices start at $12 if you're happy sitting on your own towel — and go up to $75 for a VIP package that includes sparkling wine, butler service, unlimited gourmet popcorn and a premium view of the screen.
Double Bay has welcomed an exciting new corner restaurant and bar to the former Cafe Perons space on Bay Street. Bartiga comes from co-owners Charlie Kelly and Head Chef Faheem Noor, arriving in Sydney's east with a menu inspired by Southeast Asian cuisine that the team describes as "modern yet not defined". The Kelly family have operated out of the site for more than four decades, with Charlie taking over the reins from his mum Vicky, who was in charge of the beloved cafe before him. With its latest iteration, the kitchen has shifted to focus on flavour-packed eats from an accomplished Sydney chef paired with an impressive list of wines and cocktails. "Double Bay has had its ups and downs, but the current atmosphere is the most exciting it's ever been," says Charlie Kelly on the ambitions for the venue and neighbourhood. "With visionaries like Charles Melic, Double Bay is poised to compete with the likes of James Street and Rodeo Drive." Noor brings experience from the bustling kitchens of Tetsuya's, Empire Lounge and Gordon Ramsay's Maze, unveiling a slate of dishes that nod to classic flavours as well as more trendy modern menu staples. The tried and tested Moreton Bay bug roll is given a makeover with the addition of red curry pesto, and comfort foods from across the globe collide with the barbecued prawn tom yum spaghetti. Other signature menu items to keep an eye out for when venturing to Bartiga include the MB4 scotch fillet topped with an Asian herb chimichurri and crispy onions, beef rendang sausage rolls, XO pipi linguine, prawn toast sandos, and spiced chicken wrapped in pandan leaves. Accompanying the dining options is a crowd-pleasing drinks menu. Alex Cameron (Franca) has curated the wine list, with 80 different drops listed under both 'Classics' and 'Future Classics'. Rounding out the offerings is a playful cocktail menu that's been created with some help from Vincent Valliere, owner of Byron Bay's Casa Luna. Sweet tooths should look no further than the banana and vanilla espresso martini, while those that like their drink a little more stiff can opt for the Skyfall — a combination of whisky, amaretto, macadamia liqueur and bitters. Double Bay residents who used to frequent Cafe Perons can also still drop in for their daily caffeine fix. Branded Bartiga Express, the restaurant is open from 7am for takeaway cappuccinos and flat whites, using beans from specialty roasters ONA Coffee. For now Bartiga is just open for dinners from 5pm, but as things ramp up you can expect lunch to be added to the fold from 12pm each day. Bartiga is found at the corner of Short and Bay Street, Double Bay. Head to the restaurant's website to make a booking. Images: Jude Cohen and James Pellegrino
You work hard, you play hard and gosh you should get to relax hard too —and what better way to do that than with a healthy dose of luxury down at one of the best day spas in Sydney? Kicking around in a comfy robe, being pampered like a boss and having all the time in the world to enjoy yourself, stress-free. Well, that idyllic image is an easy one to tap into, since the city is home to a vast array of top-notch spa destinations — often found in some of Sydney's best hotels. Whatever your budget, skin type, or go-to massage style, there's a luxurious Sydney spa treatment for you right near the CBD. Go get your glow on and thank us after you've found your inner peace. Recommended reads: The Best Natural Hot Springs to Visit in New South Wales The Best Luxury Getaways from Sydney The Best Sydney Date Ideas The Best Heated Pools in Sydney CROWN SPA AT CROWN TOWER, BARANGAROO Head into the huge Crown Tower in Barangaroo, bypass the lavish dining options a'Mare and Nobu, and head up the elevator to discover one of the best spas in Sydney. Whether you're looking for a facial, nail service, wellness service or a massage, you'll find it here with a heavy dose of luxury. What really elevates the Crown Spa experience is the attention to detail and the wellness journey each guest is taken on. If you're after a massage, you'll be treated to access to the sauna, 360-degree shower and spa bath. This also means you can squeeze a massage into a workday and freshen up afterwards. Your boss will be none the wiser. THE DAY SPA AT THE LANGHAM, SYDNEY CBD There's a whole stack of reasons why you should treat yourself to a stay at The Langham. First off, the indoor pool looks like it's straight out of a Roman cinematic epic and The Day Spa is no less impressive. Embracing the motto of 'detox, renew, relax and rejuvenate', this luxe Sydney spa offers the full range of luxurious treatments, which, as expected, come at a very luxurious price. Choose from a variety of standalone facials and massages, or really settle in with a multi-treatment package — like the Velvet Experience, an all-inclusive three-hour session that includes a body exfoliation, full-body massage and tailored facial treatment. If you're keen to go all out, it's priced at $490 from Monday–Thursday (or $510 from Friday–Sunday). It's the ultimate way to enjoy one of the best spas in Sydney. SOL SPA, VAUCLUSE A plant-filled Sydney restaurant serving up locally sourced health food and dotted with millennial pink armchairs is nothing unusual — but the fact that The Botanica Vaucluse also has one of the best day spas in Sydney really takes these trends to a new level. The Sol Spa, that sits adjacent to its sister restaurant, is up there among Sydney's more opulent experiences. Therapists at the Sydney spa use aromatic oils and herbs to revitalise guests, while facials and massages are accompanied by holistic treatments, plus detoxifying and antioxidant therapies. You might re-energise that skin with a 45-minute natural mineral body scrub ($95), destress with a spot of facial acupressure ($95), or treat weary muscles to a full-body nourishing treatment ($180). For some full-blown indulgence, look no further than the menu of blissful spa packages, starting from $225. When you're done with your luxury spa experience in Sydney, pop over to the restaurant for a fab feed. GILLIAN ADAMS SALON & SPA, TURRAMURRA Gillian Adams services the high-end pampering needs of the lower north shore with its unique aquamedic pool, steam room, treatment rooms, restaurant, and cutting-edge hair and beauty salon. The luxury Sydney spa's classic facial — that includes a tailored skin consultation and a series of rejuvenating treatments — will set you back $170. At the other end of the spectrum, a truly luxe L'Escape Voyage package features a pool, steam and vichy shower session, aromatherapy massage, facial, manicure, pedicure, scalp ritual, blow wave and gourmet lunch, all spread out over more than seven hours ($950). Or you can simply mix and match your way to total relaxation, picking from a broad selection of bathing rituals, massages, body treatments and more. Choose your own lavish adventure at one of the best spas in Sydney. [caption id="attachment_847463" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] DARLING SPA, PYRMONT Boasting a raft of awards, it's not hard to see why The Darling Spa is considered one of the best spas in Sydney. Not only is it home to 11 treatment rooms, a steam room, Moroccan Hammam chamber and two opulent couples' suites, but the Pyrmont venue also offers an extensive range of therapies that prove well worth the splurge. The entry-level facial costs $220 and the treatments quickly go north from there — but so too does the quality. Treat yourself to a balancing full-body massage (from $215), or perhaps surrender to an indulgent three-hour package that includes a full-body exfoliation, body wrap, scalp massage, hand and foot treatment and facial for $600. SOFITEL SPA, DARLING HARBOUR In 2023, the Darling Harbour outpost of global hotel chain Sofitel unveiled its lavish new two-storey spa, delivering a fresh dose of relaxation high among the Sydney skyline. Joining the ranks of some of Sydney's best spas, and pairing its relaxation experiences with sweeping water views, the Sofitel SPA Darling Harbour offers an array of facilities and wellness journeys — all housed within a "quintessentially Sydney" space. Soft timbers, sandstone and marble finishes welcome guests into the latest addition to the Harbour City's wellness scene, which boasts seven roomy treatment spaces. Also on offer: a bespoke standalone bathtub with harbour views, an infrared sauna, a meditation zone and a contemplation deck sitting on level four of the hotel. This is where you really, really treat yourself in Sydney. NATURE'S ENERGY BALMAIN BATHHOUSE, BALMAIN Nature's Energy's Balmain bathhouse is your destination for a complete head-to-toe pamper session. At this Sydney spa, you can melt into a therapeutic massage, try an alternative healing treatment and soak away your cares in a hot bath — all under one roof. And you can preface any treatment with an indulgent bathhouse experience, enjoying a 39-degree bubble spa, toxin-releasing sauna and the eucalyptus-infused heat of the steam room. Then it's onto the likes of a deep tissue massage (from $90 for 30 minutes) or a blissful spa package — like the aptly named Journey of Tranquility, which features an energising body scrub and back massage, followed by a 45-minute organic facial and calming quartz eye treatment ($350). KARPATI MEDISPA, DOUBLE BAY Located in Double Bay in Sydney's east, Karpati Medispa has been winning over locals with its private, luxury Sydney spa experiences for more than 30 years. Beyond the full catalogue of soothing body treatments, spa massages and reshaping therapies, Karpati's signature services run to a range of restorative and clinical rituals that are both environmentally friendly and free from nasty chemicals. A classic stress-relieving, 30-minute back, neck and shoulder massage comes in at $95, while the hour-long therapeutic medical massage with personalised consultation will melt away your tension for $225. Or you might fancy whiling away a few hours with one of the treatment combos, that start at $155. SPAQ AT QT SYDNEY, CBD QT Sydney is known for its decadent hotel rooms and bold aesthetics, and it's safe to say its day spa is no different. The signature SpaQ within the Market Street hotel is a dark, moody oasis that's the perfect spot to escape reality for an afternoon — perhaps with an energising body peel ($195) or one of four 90-minute Femme Fatale facial treatments (from $205). At this Sydney day spa, there's a range of de-stressing massages, a swag of different facial therapies and plenty of multi-treatment packages for those wanting to really settle in for a day of relaxation. And afterward, you can continue your withdrawal from the real world with champagne and oysters in the hotel bar. Because, why not? VENUSTUS BEAUTY AND BODY LAB, PADDINGTON Walking along Oxford Street, it's hard to miss the stunning sanctuary that is Venustus Beauty and Body Lab. The renowned Paddington spa boasts a serene, nurturing space, and a treatment menu that pulls inspiration and wellbeing techniques from across the globe. Venustus offers a hefty range of therapies, running from the likes of the personalised hour-long Intuitive Facial ($353) to a lymphatic-boosting full body massage ($444). And if you want to truly indulge, you can opt for the ultimate personalised treatment, dubbed the Sacred Priestess Healing ($888) — a two and a half hour-long session involving a highly personalised massage and facial. The Sydney spa experience also involves calling in our ancestors – the sacred wise women, healers and priestesses of the past – to help you connect with the source of goddess energy. All this positive energy helps it get on the list of best day spa experiences in Sydney. Top image: Sofitel SPA Darling Harbour
3D printing technology is a lot to get your head around, especially in regards to the science fiction-esque breakthroughs of the medical world. But in regards to improving your herb garden, 3D printing can lend a hand here as well. Like a family tree for plants, the new 3D Printed Aqueduct Planters have a built in trickle down irrigation system so you only need to soak the top plant in water and the rest will follow. The planter utilizes the connections between each planter as a method of transferring water and saturating the soil from the top planter to the lower plants. This is especially useful for air plants or plants that don’t need a lot of soil. The planter system can be set up in an array of configurations so you can construct your living wall to complement your living space. [via inhabit]
BWS is hosting a day-to-night Mediterranean-inspired discoteca in Sydney this December to welcome the summer season. The second iteration of the BWS Cool Room series is taking place on Sunday, December 7, with a secret Sydney location that will be transformed into a sun-drenched day-to-night party paired with Aperol Spritzes and an abundance of summery beats, delicious food, and immersive experiences. Tickets are free; you just need to register before they get snapped up. In partnership with the spirit of Euro summer itself, Aperol, BWS Cool Room will host a stacked summery lineup curated by local tastemakers Astral People, featuring artists that specialise in club and disco-house music. UK-based brother duo Chaos In The CBD are headlining the party with their jazz-infused house music and warm disco tracks. Festival favourites, Wax'o Paradiso, are high up on the bill while fellow Melbourne artist Adriana is sharing her Mediterranean-inspired dance floor chaos. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Adriana (@goodlucktoyourdad) Milanese DJ duo Eternal Love is also stopping by to share their soulful Italian sets, which have been heating up dancefloors across Europe this summer. There are several other acts on the lineup (with more to be announced), including the Italo alter ego of Sydney DJ Vibe Positive, Vibe Positano (Bobbe and Marco Vella), as well as local Sydney tastemaker and radio presenter, Bria. The event will also highlight several creative communities. Melbourne-based Skylab Radio will be on site to livestream all of the sets, Pizza Oltra will serve its famous slices, cult upcycling label Unwanted FC will be selling vintage European football jerseys, reworked football kits and accessories, as well as running live printing of sustainable merch. [caption id="attachment_1045286" align="alignleft" width="1920"] BWS Cool Room[/caption] Tickets are free but strictly limited, with the secret Sydney location dropping on the week of the event. Additionally, two lucky partygoers (based outside of Greater Sydney) can enter into a draw to win 2x VIP tickets to the party, including flights and accommodation. Sydney locals can also go in the running to score 2x VIP tickets plus one night of luxury accommodation. Keep your eyes on your inbox for the ticketing link on Thursday, November 27. Celebrate the spirit of music, movement and the Mediterranean mindset at Sydney's surprise day-to-night party. Register for your free tickets here. Image Credit: BWS Cool Room
Auckland is a city built on stories. Some are told in theatres that once hosted Bette Davis and Bob Dylan. Some on the slopes of former volcanoes. The rest, you'll have to find for yourself in the city's cobbled streets and galleries. Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland's) charm blooms beyond the tourist stops. Past the Sky Tower and steeple of St Patrick's Cathedral, you'll spot an unassuming vintage facade. Here, at 53 St Patrick's Square, The Motor House forms the foundation of Hotel Indigo Auckland. Once a showroom for Cadillacs and motorcycles, it now acts as your key to the city. Inside midtown's tallest building, warm wood panels, Māori art, and leather touches make an unexpected home out of the building's industrial bones. [caption id="attachment_1037197" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Hotel Indigo Auckland[/caption] But the best part? The hotel's position puts you at the heart of the city. Here, your neighbours are indie bookstores, laneway bars and suburban swimming spots. Here's how to plan a weekend getting lost in the hills, islands and laneways of Tāmaki Makaurau. [caption id="attachment_1037201" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Maungakiekie[/caption] Wide Open Spaces Auckland was built around the valleys and ridgelines of 53 ancient volcanoes. You can see it in the sprawling, green knolls of Maungakiekie. Also known as One Tree Hill. These Teletubbyland-esque hills act as Auckland's best viewing platform. Back in the city's heart, find Khartoum Place. Shady trees and a fountain's trickle make it a pocket of calm that locals retreat to. Check out the tile artwork in honour of the Women's Suffrage Movement in New Zealand and have a break to caffeinate. Take a short stroll and you'll find yourself at the wharf. Catch a ferry 40 minutes off the coast and you'll land a world away on Waiheke Island. Sundrenched vineyards, shaded olive groves and your footprints on white sand beaches await. Or, dive right into the harbour at the Karanga Plaza Tidal Steps: a totally free swimming area on the shores of the city. Take Notes on the Culture Follow any street in Auckland, and you'll find yourself at a crossroads of culture. Here, Māori culture threads through so much of the city, linking with European history in the wharves, cafes and museums. Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki is home to the world's largest collection of New Zealand art. Enter through majestic kauri tree columns to spend a day working through four levels of exhibitions. Plan your visit to Aotearoa in November, and you'll catch the Elam School of Fine Arts annual graduate show. Take a stroll through midtown and you'll find a slew of independent bookshops like Unity Books, Time Out Bookstore, and Hard To Find Books. Read local stories spun into poems or get lost in the whodunnits of local crime author legend Ngaio Marsh. [caption id="attachment_1039738" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Hotel Indigo Auckland[/caption] Dine Like the Locals Vulcan Lane was once an unnamed and muddy track. Today, it's a meeting point of some of Auckland's best bars, cafes, restaurants and boutique shopping. The Queensferry Hotel was one of the first to move in over 200 years ago. It's Auckland's oldest pub, but its menu is modern and best enjoyed al fresco while people-watching. Each Thursday, the laneway comes alive with free jazz performances from local music schools and seasoned pros. Follow the warm cathedral light down St Patrick's Square and you'll find Bistro Saine. Here, beyond the art-filled lobby of Hotel Indigo, you'll find this modern take on the classic European bistro is a destination in its own right. Leather banquette seating, antique tableware and perfectly cooked steak makes it easily to forget you're not in Paris. [caption id="attachment_1037203" align="alignleft" width="1920"] The Civic Theatre[/caption] Read the Stars The 1930s were Auckland's golden age. Theatres, cinemas and music halls were soundtracked by Māori soprano Ana Hato and The Beatles. Legendary spots like Everybody's, The Roxy, and Peter Pan Cabaret may be gone, but their legends live on in the feel of the streets. The Civic Theatre is perhaps the magnum opus of Auckland's golden age. Inside, giant, golden elephants and carvings of Buddha line the walls alongside gaudy chandeliers. Above it all—for no reason other than opulence—is a replica of the Auckland night sky at 10pm on Saturday, April 20, 1929. Bette Davis, The Rolling Stones, Nick Cave, Bob Dylan, and even the Dalai Lama have visited. Nowadays, you can catch a musical or comedy show there. [caption id="attachment_1037204" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Hotel Indigo Auckland[/caption] The Perfect Base When your step count is nearing new heights, Hotel Indigo Auckland makes for the perfect place to rest your tired feet. The hotel's historic home, The Motor House, plays the role of muse. In each corner, you'll find nods to the past. From the scaffold-inspired wardrobes and vintage fixtures to the factory facade still bearing the names of its former owners, you can feel the stories of Auckland past in each inch of the hotel. Step out from the lobby and you'll be met with a view of the Sky Tower and Auckland at your feet. Want to stay in the thick of it? Find out more about Hotel Indigo Auckland here. Lead image: Hotel Indigo Auckland
The turn of the century was a helluva time. Excitement and a nervous anticipation of a potential apocalypse filled the air. If you, like me, weren't around to see it firsthand, there was concern that computing systems worldwide would flatline at the turn of the century as the dates became impossible to compute. Obviously, that didn't happen. We're still here and, for better or worse, so are the computers. The entire situation left quite a mark on our culture. Now, 23 years later, the notion of Y2K is on the rise once more. As our world once again gets a little bit scary, we need to make every day count and just be ourselves. These are the brands that are bringing Y2K back for... Y23K? We'll workshop the name. PIT VIPER If Y2K is about being unapologetically yourself, Pit Viper gets top marks. There's no piece of eyewear on the market quite as flashy as these beauties. In Pit Viper's own words: "Sunrise to sunset, reef breaks to ridgelines, holeshots to holy sh*t, we build the functional, fun-loving gear that is serious about taking things less seriously". It's hard for an Aussie not to recognise these flashy fluorescent designs, and when you take a spin on the website, you'll be teleported straight back to the 2000s. Once you've adjusted, take a tour through the product range; from the iconic polarised range of 'The Originals' (The 1993 or The Miami Nights) sunnies to the rounded, heavier-duty range of 'The Slammers', there's eyewear of every shape and colour on offer. Pit Viper extends its identity through goggles suitable for dirt and snow, clothes for your head, top and 'power bottom', and even rigs to help keep the glasses on your face. [caption id="attachment_924540" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Oleg Shatilov via Unsplash[/caption] CHAOTIC THREADS While the cultural concept of Gen Z has really only grown in recent years, the generation was quite literally born in the Y2K era, between 1997 and 2012. We might not be able to remember it all physically, but thanks to the internet, its memory is well preserved. The style of Y2K is growing in popularity among Gen Z, and that harmony is plain to see with brands like Chaotic Threads. Chaotic Threads was founded in Melbourne and prides itself on sustainability and style in equal parts. Each piece is created from a single inspiration, meaning every design is limited-run. The upside is every bit of scrap fabric will be reused to create more accessorie. The product range is always shifting, so check the website or Instagram to see what's currently available. [caption id="attachment_924503" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Lilli via iStock[/caption] ACTUAL ANGEL A similarly Gen Z-charged brand (which also happens to be based in Melbourne) is Actual Angel. You might take a shine to these pieces if you have ever had a goth phase. Every design is handmade, ranging from heavy gothic designs to mystical pieces that tread closer to the modern fairy core. Actual Angel's range spans gorgeous stellar earring designs, chokers of all textures and colours and even tote bags made from the likes of velour satin and lace designs. It's all whimsical, comfortable and, most importantly, it's handmade independently. Actual Angel can be found on Instagram, but you can find the entire product range on Depop. [caption id="attachment_924511" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Ivan Martynov via iStock[/caption] THREADHEADS A marker of Y2K fashion is graphic design — as technology and pop culture evolved, the option to print customised designs onto clothing became more accessible. One of the most popular graphic tee brands right now is Threadheads. Quickly achieving viral status thanks to a satirical but stylish approach to designs, this is the ideal brand for anyone with a sense of humour. Design themes cover pop culture, gaming, 80s and 90s, parody, retro, anime and more. Threadheads also loves a collab, with official collections made with Rick and Morty, DC Comics, NASA, Seinfeld, Cobra Kai and others. A new addition to the catalogue is custom tees, a great gift for any lovers of bootleg designs. [caption id="attachment_924502" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] IC Productions via iStock[/caption] DIESEL Diesel predates Y2K, going back to the vintage days of 1978. But as many fashion labels move to the next new and exciting thing, Diesel reflects on all the wonder of the Y2K era with a product range that will take you back to the finest pop videos of the noughties. How so? Diesel's specialty denim line still reigns supreme, but a closer look through the catalogue will reveal the likes of tie-dyed belt bags, futuristic metallic tops, baby tees, frayed high tops and other icons of the era. Ranging across men and women, clothes, accessories, homewares and more, there has to be something for everyone in there. [caption id="attachment_922788" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Millie Savage[/caption] MILLIE SAVAGE The final cornerstone of Y2K fashion for us to discuss is the statement jewellery pieces. Big and bright — there was nothing minimalist about these pieces. A brand that keeps that trend alive is Millie Savage. Yet another fashion label based in Melbourne (though now also boasting a Bali studio), Millie Savage is run by an all-female team of designers that specialises in precious gems, all ethically sourced. Millie Savage has a particular love of opals, mainly sourced from South Australia. Every product has the Millie Savage touch: namely, a lack of playing by the rules. It's especially visible in the one-off beauties collection, where no two pieces are alike in the slightest. Check out the designs across rings, necklaces, earrings, bracelets and more. For more information on Pit Viper or its products, visit the website.
Every two years, Sydney turns into one big art trail as the Biennale of Sydney rolls out exhibitions at major museums across the city, tied together by a thoughtful theme. Heading into its 25th edition, the 2026 biennale will spotlight the stories that have slipped through the cracks — either erased, overlooked or untold. In the 2024 edition, the biennale turned its gaze to the sun for the Ten Thousand Suns program. For its 2026 run, it's taken inspiration from a literary idol: in Toni Morrison's novel Beloved, the idea of 'rememory' describes how the past persists to be experienced again and again. The program will explore what it means to remember – and what it means when certain stories are forgotten— by bringing marginalised and diasporic narratives to the surface. [caption id="attachment_1049218" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image supplied[/caption] Barbara Moore, CEO of the Biennale of Sydney, says, "The Biennale of Sydney is a platform for art and ideas that inspire, challenge and connect us. In this moment, more than ever, we need opportunities that invite us to step beyond our own perspectives [and] encounter experiences different from our own, to reflect on what binds us together, and to celebrate what makes us human." International names on the lineup include Nikesha Breeze, Dread Scott, Nahom Teklehaimanot, Tuấn Andrew Nguyễn, Joe Namy and Sandra Monterroso. Closer to home, the program features local talent such as Abdul Abdullah, Dennis Golding, Helen Grace, Wendy Hubert, Richard Bell, Merilyn Fairskye and Michiel Dolk. [caption id="attachment_1053037" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image by Daniel Boud[/caption] The biennale has also partnered with Cartier's Paris-based art arm, Fondation Cartier pour l'art contemporain. The foundation has commissioned 15 First Nations artists to create new works of art in collaboration with its First Nations Curatorial Fellow Bruce Johnson McLean, who is also a Wierdi person of the Birri Gubba Nation. Indigenous artists globally have hopped onto the initiative, including: Native American interdisciplinary artist Cannupa Hanska Luger; sculptor Rose B. Simpson from the Santa Clara Pueblo tribe in New Mexico; acclaimed Yolngu artist Gunybi Ganambarr; and Tongan artist Benjamin Work, who is slated to present a sculptural tribute to the fusion of traditional Tongan dress with Western clothing. Exhibitions will dominate five arts institutions around Sydney, spanning the Arts Gallery of New South Wales, Campbelltown Arts Centre, Penrith Regional Gallery, Chau Chak Wing Museum, and White Bay Power Station (the once-sleepy industrial site that was turned into an arts hub by the 2024 Biennale of Sydney). Space out your art crawls with a jam-packed public program of evening gigs, crafty workshops and talks. We've compiled a handy guide of exhibitions and events to help you plan your route through the Biennale of Sydney 2026. White Bay Power Station [caption id="attachment_996125" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image supplied[/caption] The biennale kicks off on March 13 with an opening party at White Bay Power Station, soundtracked to beats from local DJ INBRAZA Baile, First Nations-fronted Hand to Earth and Baltimore-born Nourished by Time. Keep an eye out for the car blasting music — it's part of 'Automobile', an elaborate sound installation by Lebanese artist and musician Joe Namy where he gathers local cars outfitted with tricked-out stereo systems that double up as instruments. Two landmark exhibitions will span the venue. One is Nikesha Breeza's 'Living Histories', an archive of stories from enslaved African Americans in the Antebellum South, set in a maze of floor-to-ceiling fabric columns that mimic the African Baobab tree. Another is a striking mural by Garrwa-Yanyuwa painter Nancy Yukuwal McDinny, capturing the post-colonial voices of the traditional custodians of the Gulf of Carpentaria. [caption id="attachment_1049220" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image supplied[/caption] On Friday evenings, White Bay Power Station lights up with Arts After Dark. Three music lineups are locked in so far: March 20 brings ethereal melodies from celebrated Japanese experimental pop artist and composer Tujiko Noriko and a viola-meets-electronic-music set by Sydney-based composer Mara Schwerdtfeger; an electronic commentary by Kashmiri sound artist Ruhail Qaisar and local genre-defying musician Marcus Whale on March 27; and a strings-leaning night with Gomeroi guitarist Liam Keenan and Yorta Yorta bassist Allara Briggs-Pattison on April 3. The heritage-listed site will host a slate of Inner West Council events during the biennale. Attend talks curated by local storyteller Lillian Ahenkan, known by her stage name FlexMami, on March 28. Then on 11 and 12 April, a collection of six performance artworks by Amrita Hepi, Charlotte Farrell, Emma Maye Gibson, Jacqui O'Reilly, Lauren Brincat, Lulu Barkell, Theodore Carroll and Red Rey will take the venue by storm. Redfern [caption id="attachment_638226" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image supplied[/caption] Redfern locals are in for something special. The Block has long been the beating heart of Indigenous communities in Sydney, and artist Dennis Golding will translate his memories of growing up there into a mini festival. Expect a beaded jewellery making workshop on May 10, where some of the beads are 3D printed from the bricks of the iconic Aboriginal Flag mural that once stood over The Block. Then, on April 9, enter a First Nations-led bingo night inspired by community games that used to be held regularly in one of the vacant Eveleigh Street terraces. Plus, there will be three monthly strolls around Redfern with long-time resident Aunty Donna Ingram, who will dive into the area's Aboriginal history. Art Gallery of New South Wales [caption id="attachment_1049224" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image by Iwan Baan[/caption] Known for his collage-style canvases, internationally reowned Eritrean artist Nahom Teklehaimanot presents a trio of new large-scale canvases at the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Encapsulated by its title, This is My Silence You Name the Sound, the collection reflects on the complexities of refugees' lives. The 15-year-old Kulata Tjuta Project is also making a stop at the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Kulata Tjuta means 'many spears', a literal nod to the thousands of hand-carved spears (and counting) that make up the contemporary work. Anangu artist Frank Young started the project within the Amata community in the remote regions of South Australia in 2010 — it's since expanded to involve over 100 Aṉangu men spanning over three generations of spear-makers. Penrith Regional Gallery [caption id="attachment_1049221" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image by Lyndal Irons[/caption] Just an hour from the city, Penrith Regional Gallery is an intimate homestead with a charming heritage garden. Settle in for a yarn on the grounds, now a sprawling native plant sanctuary nurtured by Yindjibarndi Elder Wendy Hubert. The living showcase of ancestral knowledge features native plants that are used for food, healing, and ceremony. Inside the home-studio-turned-gallery, Monica Rani-Rudhar draws on her lineage to stage a poignant multi-channel video installation that explores how two traces of colonialism — trauma and resistance — are inherited through generations. Campbelltown Arts Centre [caption id="attachment_1049223" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image by Nikki To[/caption] Located in the creative hub of Campbelltown, the Campbelltown Arts Centre is shaping up to be an unmissable stop for film lovers during the Sydney Biennale. When riots erupt in youth detention centres, it's officially labelled a Code Black/Riot. It's also the name of a large-scale collaborative project that aims to amplify the voices of incarcerated Indigenous youths, spearheaded by documentary filmmaker Hoda Afshar. The collective bagged the 2025 National Photographic Prize, and is now making an appearance at the Biennale of Sydney 2026, with Behrouz Boochani, Hoda Afshar and Vernon Ah Kee presenting a multi-channel video exhibition at Campbelltown Arts Centre. Another highlight is the multimedia work of Lebanese filmmakers Joana Hadjithomas and Khalil Joreige, which follows a circle of friends who are setting off to Christmas Island. Their journey unfolds alongside the annual red crab migration, where a mass of crabs swarm from the forest to the ocean. The result? An immersive installation that interlaces movement, migration and imagined utopias. Chau Chak Wing Museum [caption id="attachment_1049222" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image by David James[/caption] The much-loved museum at the University of Sydney will be home to two contrasting sculptures. One of them hails from Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland, where artist Benjamin Work has created a celebratory tribute to the endurance of Indigenous culture, sparked by the 19th century fusion of Western influence with traditional Tongan attire. The other takes a critical approach, examining how Australian arts institutions have preserved Indigenous cultural material. Visit the Biennale of Sydney website for more information.
As 2025 races to a close, there's one trend that's well and truly left its mark on the year. The humble run club has proven its longevity — hi, Labubus and Dubai chocolate — with one for just about everything and everyone. But, have you ever joined a run club where the sole purpose is to get you not from A to B, but from A to a free sandwich, iced coffee and a DJ set? Didn't think so. Allow us to introduce The Morning Circuit, a run club event hosted by Abbott's Bakery, Concrete Playground, Rolling Stone AU/NZ, and Refinery29, taking place Saturday, December 6, from 7am until 10am. Then, from 8am–10am at the finish line, the morning afterparty kicks off. Registrations have now closed. The roughly seven-kilometre route will loop through Circular Quay's landmarks for a view of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge bathed in morning light. There will be three groups to suit all levels of pace with five-minute, six-minute, and seven-minute kilometre splits. The run is being delivered in partnership with Sydney Harbour Runners and China Town Run Club. Of course, it all culminates in your arrival at Kosta's Takeaway Circular Quay location for free sandwiches, free iced coffees and a Saturday morning DJ set. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kosta's Takeaway (@kostastakeaway) If you've visited Kosta's Takeaway before, you'll know its sandwiches are all about simple flavours done to an exceptional standard. Think classic, but not basic. On the totally free menu, you'll find two one-off sandwiches made with Abbott's Bakery's latest bread flavour combinations and the sandwich flavour profiles of the Kosta's Takeaway crew. The Green Machine is the first option. Expect a punch of freshness and colour with avocado, tomato, beetroot, pickled carrots, provolone, rocket, furikake (a Japanese mix of seaweed and sesame seeds), salad cream, and hummus served between two slices of Abbott's Bakery High Protein Loaf. Then we have the aptly named The Shred Sandwich. Perfectly seasoned poached chicken, avocado, crunchy slaw, and lashings of pickled mayo spread over Abbott's Bakery Lower Carb Loaf. Abbott's Bakery's High Protein Soy, Chickpea & Quinoa and Lower Carb White Bread are to thank for the pop-up. So, what better way to sample the new flavours than with an early morning DJ set and free sandwich from one of Sydney's best? Abbott's Bakery High Protein comes with 24 percent of your recommended protein daily intake in two slices — aka, a sandwich — while Abbott's Bakery Lower Carb White has 50 percent fewer carbs per serve*, so you can dig in knowing your macros are well on track. A nice bit of closure after a run like that. Register for your free place on the website, and keep an eye out for more details closer to the event. *Abbott's Bakery® Lower Carb White has 50 percent less carbohydrate (16.6 g per serve) than Abbott's Bakery® Rustic White (36.3 g per serve) Image credit: via Kosta's Takeaway Instagram.
His hotel concierges are charismatic and committed, while his lobby boys are devoted and delightful. His foxes are nothing short of fantastic, and his dogs are as resourceful as they are adorable. Every time that he turns his attention to a family dynamic — be it siblings, strained parent-child relationships or friendships so close that they feel like bonds of blood — dysfunction always reigns supreme. And, when all of the above occurs, it does so within immaculately symmetrical yet immensely eccentric frames. Yes, we're talking about Wes Anderson, and the distinctive body of work that the American filmmaker has splashed across cinema screens over the past three decades. Usually chronicling some kind of caper, often featuring a retro 60s and 70s soundtrack, and styled so meticulously that each image could happily hang on anyone's wall (in fact, he's even curated museum exhibitions), his films are like no one else's. Often brought to life by a familiar cast of faces — Owen Wilson, Luke Wilson, Jason Schwartzman, Bill Murray, Jeff Goldblum, Anjelica Huston, Tilda Swinton, Willem Dafoe, Adrien Brody, Bob Balaban, Edward Norton, Scarlett Johansson and Benicio del Toro, to name a few — they firmly resonate on their own frequency. And, understandably so, they've amassed quite a following. But, from a filmography to-date that spans from Bottle Rocket to The Phoenician Scheme, which is the best? As always, that's a subjective question. Like ranking Studio Ghibli movies, it's also a task made all the more difficult by a simple fact: Wes Anderson has never made a bad film, not once. That said, while some are flatout masterpieces that will always stand the test of time, others are entertaining but don't necessarily demand multiple rewatches. That's what we found when we revisited the 13 features (well, 12 and four shorts packaged as an anthology film, which we're counting) currently on his resume, and soaked in his inimitable cinematic creations. And, here are the results: our rundown of Anderson's films from worst — again, not that there's any such thing as a terrible Anderson flick — to best. 13. Moonrise Kingdom By virtue of their format, a ranked list always requires something to come in last place. Moonrise Kingdom earns that honour on Wes Anderson's filmography — not because it isn't great, which it is, but because it's the movie on his resume that can stick in the mind the least. A bittersweet story about first love and finding a home, it's also the rare Anderson film that feels as much a part of its genre as part of the director's oeuvre. In other words, it's definitely an Anderson flick, but it also charts rather recognisable coming-of-age territory. Still, watching 12-year-olds Suzy Bishop (Kara Hayward, Slayers) and Sam Shakusky (Jared Gilman, Angry Neighbours) set the New England island of New Penzance aflutter when they run off in the name of romance is typically charming. Moonrise Kingdom streams via YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. 12. The Darjeeling Limited In Anderson's fifth film, three brothers take a train across India in the eponymous locomotive. During their trip, Francis (Owen Wilson, Loki), Jack (Jason Schwartzman, The Last Showgirl) and Peter (Adrien Brody, The Brutalist) work through their sibling baggage while literally carting around matching orange-hued, monogrammed baggage. It's been a year since they last crossed paths at their father's funeral, and life isn't treating any of them kindly — with Anderson and co-writers Schwartzman and Roman Coppola (Mozart in the Jungle) balancing the brothers' existential malaise with episodic antics both on the train and off. As stylish as any Anderson-directed feature, The Darjeeling Limited is served best by its performances, as well as its touching blend of sadness and humour. The Darjeeling Limited streams via Disney+, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. 11. Bottle Rocket When Anderson made his feature directorial debut back in 1996, he did so with this crime-comedy caper about three friends planning a series of heists in the absence of any other direction in their lives. Based on a short film of the same name that he helmed two years prior, and co-written with Owen Wilson, who also stars, Bottle Rocket establishes many of the filmmaker's trademarks from the outset — including his penchant for witty interactions, as well as his love of dressing his characters in coordinated outfits. Owen Wilson plays Dignan, the driving force; however, as his recently voluntarily institutionalised best friend Anthony, this is Luke Wilson's (No Good Deed) time to shine. A third Wilson, their elder brother Andrew (Father Figures), also pops up, because of course he does. Bottle Rocket streams via YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. 10. The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar and Three More It might've originally been released as four separate short films, led by Best Live-Action Short Oscar-winner The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, but this 2023 addition to Anderson's resume always made sense as an anthology. In its 39-minute namesake chapter, Ralph Fiennes (Conclave) plays Roald Dahl, who did indeed pen the tale that gives this suitably symmetrically shot affair its name — the book it's in, too. The account that the author spills to start is about a man who has learned to see without his eyes (Ben Kingsley, The King of Kings), the doctor (Dev Patel, Monkey Man) fascinated with him and the gambler (Benedict Cumberbatch, Eric) who wants to master the trick, and is one of several in a movie that enthusiastically makes Anderson's love of layers known in its playful structure as much as its faux set. The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar and Three More streams via Netflix. Read our full review. 9. Isle of Dogs A literal underdog tale about scrappy canines, a plucky orphan and a pooch-hating politician with an evil scheme, Isle of Dogs is one of the most Wes Anderson-esque movies the filmmaker has ever made. Filled with heart, humour and witty dialogue, this doggone delight is constructed with the tail-wagging enthusiasm of man's best friend — and, as well as sporting all of the beloved Anderson traits (quirky quests, spirited characters, symmetrical compositions, a distinctive colour palette and a huge cast among them), it tells a stellar story. The setup: when his uncle, Megasaki City's mayor, bans all dogs to Trash Island, 12-year-old Atari (Koyu Rankin, Dead Boy Detectives) risks his life to follow his four-legged companion. At every moment, the director fills his narrative to the brim like an overflowing bowl of dog treats, spoiling viewers like he'd spoil his own animal companion. Isle of Dogs streams via Disney+, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. 8. The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou will always be Anderson's undersung gem. It's so quintessentially Anderson and, with its length, it's guilty of sprawling — but every absurdist moment is a marvel. The premise, casting Bill Murray (Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire) as a Jacques Cousteau-style oceanographer intent on getting revenge on the just-discovered jaguar shark that killed his best friend, is instantly amusing. Trapping a crew of offbeat folks at sea while Zissou pursues his quest provides plenty of comic as well as thoughtful moments, too. The soundtrack of David Bowie songs, including Portuguese-language covers by The Life Aquatic co-star Seu Jorge, sets the pitch-perfect mood. And, visually, Anderson's pans through a cross-section of the ship are always striking. Also, no one has ever watched this film and not immediately wanted a pair of Team Zissou sneakers. The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou streams via Disney+, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. 7. Rushmore In Anderson's 1998 breakout film, there's nothing that Max Fischer (Jason Schwartzman) loves more than Rushmore Academy. As the director conveys so engagingly, his 15-year-old protagonist has spent the bulk of his life at the exclusive private school — mainly starting extra-curricular clubs, as well as annoying both the headmaster (Brian Cox, The Parenting) and his classmates with his enthusiasm, all while barely caring about his grades. Then, just as he befriends a wealthy company owner (Bill Murray), Max falls for the new first-grade teacher (Olivia Williams, Dune: Prophecy). One of the best of Anderson's coming-of-age films, Rushmore deploys both Schwartzman and Murray to perfection, while weaving a smart yet also often dark comedy about learning to adjust your dreams. Rushmore streams via Disney+, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. 6. Fantastic Mr Fox Combine Anderson, a magnificent Roald Dahl-penned all-ages story and stunning stop-motion animation, and you get a match made in cinematic heaven. Dahl wrote the acclaimed 1970 children's novel about the canny and cunning titular fox, of course, while Anderson brings it to vibrant life with a voice cast that includes George Clooney (Wolfs), Meryl Streep (Only Murders in the Building), Jason Schwartzman, Bill Murray, Willem Dafoe (Nosferatu) and Owen Wilson (and via a script co-written with Frances Ha, Marriage Story and White Noise's Noah Baumbach, too). While Fantastic Mr Fox marked Anderson's first animated feature, he's a natural when it comes to witty comedy paired with playfulness and a whole lot of sight gags. As for the story, it follows Mr Fox's (Clooney) efforts to outsmart a trio of mean farmers — and it's told here with energy, personality and Anderson's usual flair. Fantastic Mr Fox streams via Disney+, Stan, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. 5. The French Dispatch Editors fictional and real may disagree — The French Dispatch of the Liberty, Kansas Evening Sun's Arthur Howitzer Jr (Bill Murray) among them — but it's easy to use Wes Anderson's name as both an adjective and a verb. In a sentence that'd never get printed in this film's titular tome (and mightn't in The New Yorker, its inspiration, either), The French Dispatch is another one of the most Wes Anderson movies Wes Anderson has ever Wes Andersoned. It spins three main stories and a couple of delightful interludes like it's laying out pieces from its titular magazine, and it's as symmetrical, idiosyncratic and thoughtful as the writer/director's work has even been. Plus, the cast is packed, as well as glorious in offbeat performances as always, with Tilda Swinton (The Room Next Door), Timothée Chalamet (A Complete Unknown), Benicio del Toro (Reptile) and Jeffrey Wright (The Last of Us) among the standouts. The French Dispatch streams via Disney+, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. 4. The Phoenician Scheme It'll always be a glaring oversight that Ralph Fiennes didn't win every award that he could for The Grand Budapest Hotel. Here's hoping that Benicio del Toro's efforts in The Phoenician Scheme aren't similarly overlooked. After the actor's sublime work for Anderson in one of The French Dispatch's segments, the Traffic Oscar-winner is again exceptional as Anatole 'Zsa-zsa' Korda, who starts this film in a plane crash, then trying to appoint his sole daughter Liesl (Mia Threapleton, The Buccaneers), a trainee nun, to agree to be his heir. They give each other a trial period — as a father, and as the person who'll carry on Zsa-zsa's legacy. Their other key focus: attempting to enact the titular scheme. Both del Toro and Michael Cera, as a Norwegian tutor, couldn't be more at home in front of Anderson's lens. This is also one of his movies that cuts deep emotionally, and seamlessly shows how he's a master at his usual touches while also venturing into new territory. The Phoenician Scheme released in Australian cinemas on Thursday, May 29, 2025. Read our interview with Benicio del Toro and Michael Cera. 3. Asteroid City Asteroid City is Anderson's 11th movie, also a desert spot known for a hefty crater caused 5000 years ago and a play about said locale. As the film itself tells viewers direct to-camera, however, the latter two — the setting and the theatre show — definitely aren't real, even within the world of the feature itself. Anderson gets especially playful in this film about a Junior Stargazer convention, the motley crew of folks that it brings to town in September 1955 and the otherworldly interloper who causes chaos. Staging a play within a TV show within a movie, he gets as smart and moving as his work has ever been to contemplate art, authenticity, and the emotions found in and processed through works of creativity, too. As the closest thing that the ensemble piece has to leads, Jason Schwartzman and Scarlett Johansson (Fly Me to the Moon) are astronomically spectacular, as are the film's look, feel, insightful musings, sense of humour and crater-sized impact. Asteroid City streams via Paramount+, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. 2. The Grand Budapest Hotel Many a well-known actor has graced Anderson's frames. Most have done so multiple times, with Bill Murray appearing in ten of his 13 films thus far. But no one has put in a performance quite like Ralph Fiennes as M. Gustave in The Grand Budapest Hotel. As the dedicated concierge at the titular holiday spot in the Republic of Zubrowka, he's a powerhouse — as amusing as he is charming, vibrant, confident, soulful, wily and determined. Indeed, it's no wonder that Anderson lets this layered tale of friendship, war, fascism and tragedy hang off his leading man. The rest of his ensemble cast works a treat, including Saoirse Ronan (Blitz) and then-newcomer Tony Revolori (Servant), and this is one of Anderson's most aesthetically stunning creations. Still, without Fiennes, it would've lacked quite a bit of its ample magic. The Grand Budapest Hotel streams via Disney+, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video. Read our full review. 1. The Royal Tenenbaums In his first two films, Anderson focused on characters striving for greatness, be it through pulling off heists in Bottle Rocket or tying their identity to their school in Rushmore. In The Royal Tenenbaums, the titular family's three children were all once great. In fact, they were child prodigies. But as adults, their lives have seen more disappointment and joy, a truth that stern widower and finance whiz Chas (Ben Stiller, Nutcrackers), fiercely private playwright Margot (Gwyneth Paltrow, The Politician) and ex-tennis star Richie (Luke Wilson) are forced to face just as their father (the now-late, great Gene Hackman, Welcome to Mooseport) resurfaces and their mother (Anjelica Huston, Towards Zero) prepares to get remarried. Although undeniably whimsical, it's the most melancholy, poignant and deeply felt of the director's features. And, in its visuals and its performances, it's also oh-so-rich with affecting detail. The Royal Tenenbaums streams via Disney+, YouTube Movies, iTunes and Prime Video.
You get the best of both worlds with fan favourites LANEIGE and Frank Green joining forces to redefine self-care on the go. The beauty and hydration powerhouses are officially launching a one-of-a-kind innovation: a glossy 34oz Frank Green ceramic reusable bottle with a detachable lip gloss holder — complete with a full-size LANEIGE Glaze Craze Tinted Lip Serum. This limited-edition release marks the next evolution of water bottles, and is available in three shades inspired by LANEIGE's viral lip serums. Each bottle mirrors the same high-shine finish of the raved gloss. The launch also debuts Frank Green's brand-new accessory, a sleek clip-on lip gloss holder, designed to keep hydration and beauty essentials in one place. The drop caters to the rise of luxury drinkware and the craze for lip oils. "We saw the perfect opportunity to create a bespoke product that ensures our community stays hydrated and glowing all day long — inside and out," says Frank Green founder and CEO, Ben Young. The limited-edition set includes a glossy 34oz Frank Green ceramic reusable bottle paired with a matching detachable lip gloss holder, designed for both function and style. Each bottle comes with a full-size LANEIGE' Glaze Craze Tinted Lip Serum in the coordinating shade, creating a cohesive beauty-and-hydration essential that celebrates the viral lip gloss finish fans love. Launching on October 28, 2025, the collection will be available in three shades — Sugar Glaze, Peach Glaze, and Cinnamon Sugar — and will be sold exclusively through Frank Green and LANEIGE's official websites, as well as select retail partners. This is hydration with main character energy, and it's guaranteed to sell out fast. Shop the LANEIGE x Frank Green collab. Images: Supplied.
On a future visit to Hoyts cinema in Australia, you might be catching your movie of choice not just on the big screen, but in IMAX. The two companies — Hoyts and IMAX — announced a partnership in July with the goal of launching up to five state-of-the-art IMAX with Laser systems around the country. First stop was Hoyts Melbourne Central, now we know the next four locations to follow. Before 2025 comes to an end, timed before Avatar: Fire and Ash arrives, Hoyts Chadstone will add IMAX to its offering in mid-November, before Hoyts Carousel in Perth, Hoyts Melbourne Central and Hoyts Blacktown in western Sydney open in mid-December — hopefully before the third Avatar film releases on Thursday, December 18, 2025. This isn't the first time that Hoyts and IMAX have joined forces, but they haven't worked together on an IMAX site since 2019. There could still be more additions to come, since the chain operates in New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia and the Australian Capital Territory, too. So, if you live in those states, start crossing your fingers. Wherever else Hoyts rolls out its new IMAX with Laser systems, viewers will enjoy 4K images displayed via an optical engine with custom-designed lenses — and showing the widest range of colours in IMAX yet — plus precision audio. "Hoyts is delighted to partner with IMAX to introduce four new screens across Australia, giving movie lovers even more ways to enjoy blockbusters on the big screen," said Hoyts Group CEO and President Damien Keogh. "The release of Avatar: Fire and Ash in December — and a tremendous 2026 slate behind it — represent a golden opportunity for IMAX and its exhibition partners around the world," added IMAX CEO Rich Gelfond. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ma1x7ikpid8[/embed] Fittingly, Australia is currently embracing IMAX in a big way. From just four locations earlier in 2025 — in Carlton in Melbourne, in Sydney, and also on the Gold Coast and in Canberra since late 2024 — the country is the tenth market box-office wise for the format around the globe. Expanding the country's super-sized cinema options, this is the third round of new IMAX locations announced in the last year. Another new Melbourne venue has been confirmed as well, launching at Village Cinemas Fountain Gate the end of 2025. Plus, EVT, the hospitality company behind Event Cinemas, has a quartet of IMAX screens on the way at venues yet to be revealed. Three will welcome in movie lovers in 2026, with the fourth arriving before 2027 is out. Hoyts' new IMAX locations are set to start rolling out in November and December of 2025. Keep an eye on the Hoyts website for more details in the interim.
Circular Quay has a new spot for golden-hour escapism, with Acapulco El Vista bringing a dose of 1960s Latin glamour to the harbourfront. And much like the golden age the venue channels, there's some serious star power on display here: El Vista marks the second collaboration between The Maybe Group (Maybe Sammy) and Accor's new in-house hospitality arm Table For — landing hot on the heels of their all-day Bond Street spot Bar Allora — and also Table For's second project with chef Giovanni Pilu (Pilu at Freshwater), who has just opened Flaminia in the same hotel. Together, they've created a relaxed yet polished harbourside hangout that leans into bright coastal flavours and sunset sessions. Set on level three of the Pullman Quay Grand, El Vista is pitched as a lounge-bar made for lingering, thanks to Pilu's share-style menu and a soundtrack that moves from Latin jazz to global grooves as the night unfolds. Interiors nod to the resorts of Acapulco's golden age — when the Mexican Riviera drew Hollywood starlets and international glitterati — while keeping the focus firmly on those sweeping harbour views. The cocktail program commits to the bit, led by margaritas, daiquiris and reimagined classics — including a mango paloma and a peach-and-coconut mojito — plus a dedicated colada section. Inventive signatures add even more personality, from a dulce de leche espresso martini to a chilled, milky rum sour. Pilu's menu keeps things lively and shareable. Expect seafood-forward plates like a yellowtail kingfish aguachile, crispy yellowfin tuna tacos and a spanner crab and corn tortita, alongside crowd-pleasing bites like cheese empanadas and a pineapple- and pickled onion-topped choripán. Settle in during the day for a breezy lounge vibe backed by Latin jazz, or drop by later as DJ sets take over from Thursday through Saturday. Sundays start with acoustic brunches before sliding into sultry Latin evenings — a weekly rhythm that mirrors the venue's coastal nightlife feel.
