Having built loyal followings at their Darlinghurst and St Leonards locations, brothers Josh and Jamesray Khoury have brought their signature brand of brunch with bite to the Inner West with The Rusty Rabbit Concord. The sunny 100-square-metre corner spot delivers everything rusted-on fans know about the brand — playful personality, hearty brunch fare and warm service — plus a few new tricks. Out the back, a pop-up space hosts rotating collaborations with local brands and small businesses, adding to the sense of community the brothers have built at each of their cafes. You'll also spot the familiar rabbit motif throughout the venue, including the cafe's merch line. The menu takes a similar crowd-pleasing approach. It's a broad selection that spans everything from pancake stacks, two-hander brekkie burgers and even steak and eggs to house-pressed juices and the inevitable açai bowl. Middle Eastern flavours are cleverly threaded throughout — the Lamb Eggs feature labneh, ground lamb kafta, mint, pomegranate and za'atar-poached eggs on sourdough, the Champ Bowl is a colourful combination of harissa hummus with avocado, poached eggs, grilled chicken, kale, cherry tomatoes, dukkah and pickled cabbage, while the smoked salmon and avo on toast is rounded out with a wasabi labneh. The brothers' Concord opening is personal. In 2017, they opened a Rusty Rabbit in Burwood, but closed it quietly during the pandemic before it could truly take off. "Concord is our second shot," says Josh. "It's a redemption story and a homecoming all in one." With its village-like feel, well-executed fare and just the right amount of bustle, Concord reminds the Khourys of Darlinghurst in the early days. Only now, they've got a decade's worth of experience to make this one a success — and plenty of energy to keep it going.
Sydney lost a long-time legend of the Kings Cross nightclub scene when Hugos closed its doors back in 2015. But when locals banded together to revitalise the area's nightlife, the space was reborn as Flamingo Lounge, courtesy of the team behind Double Bay's now-closed Casablanca Bar and Restaurant. And yes, Sneaky Sundays are back. Flashing a brand new Miami-inspired fit-out along with a 3am license and late-night pizza offering, the venue was initially intended to be a pop-up. But the team — who closed Casablanca earlier this month — has decided to go full steam ahead and make it permanent. "We knew we'd have to close Casablanca [due to commercial development] and this was the best venue to buy because of its position and history in Kings Cross," managing partner Poata Okeroa told Concrete Playground back in June. "The space is a progression from Casablanca for us." The new digs are decidedly different from Hugos, going for a 1980s vibe that combines Miami glamour with art. Think pink neon lights, a retractable DJ stage, plush lounges and mixed-media wall collages. "The artwork and ceiling details pays homage to the art walls of downtown Miami," explained designer Josh Clapp. "The lighting has a bit of Las Vegas and Caribbean flare, but we're moving away from that 'New York speakeasy' vibe you see everywhere." The space has been designed to be much moodier and darker than Hugos, with deep shades of burgundy acting as the main colour scheme. The entire venue has also been expertly soundproofed to make the internal sound quality top-notch — plus it has the added benefit of keeping the peace with neighbours. As a small homage to the venue's past, the leather from the existing lounges of Hugos has been repurposed as ceiling and wall panels. While the main club is meant to focus on the DJ booth, the adjoining terrace bar offers a more sophisticated cocktail lounge with table service and secluded booth. In all, the Flamingo Lounge will house four bars, and host three distinct nightly offerings. Flamingo Fridays will be lead by former Backroom and House of Luis Tans owner Raul Gonzales, and feature house music inspired by 1980s classic Miami disco glamour. Flamingo Saturdays will take their cues from Casablanca, with a bottle service-driven offering accompanied by hip hop and R&B. Finally, Sneaky Sundays — complete with Connie Mitchell and Black Angus — will make a triumphant return to Bayswater Road on the last night of the week, from 8pm till late. This will launch on October 1, which is on the Labour Day weekend. "We are extremely excited to be the ones pioneering the area post lockouts," said co-owner Sid Pierucci on the eve of Flamingo Lounge's launch. "Potts Point has always been a hotspot — arguably the epicentre — of Sydney's nightlife. Since the lockouts back in February 2014 the area's overall demographic has significantly altered the character of the area which is now needy of an upper class late night venue. We ultimately hope to add vibrancy to a city that currently needs it." Flamingo Lounge will soon be joined by Chula, a new Mexican restaurant from the Barrio Chino team, that will open next door before the end of the year. Words: Marissa Ciampi and Tom Clift. Images: Letícia Almeida.
In 2026, Flickerfest Short Film Festival will celebrate its 35th year as a highlight in the cultural calendar. The curated programme, which takes place from Friday, January 23 until Sunday, February 1, showcases around 200 short films, including 42 world premieres and 41 Australian premieres, giving Sydney audiences a first look at the industry's creative talents. Alongside Flickerfest's outstanding lineup, the festival has also partnered with Specsavers for the third year running to support emerging filmmakers. The competition invites filmmakers to create a 30-second short film in the spirit of the brand's recognisable "Should've Gone To Specsavers" ad, which has been gracing Australian screens for over 15 years. "The partnership is about getting people to think creatively and giving opportunities for emerging filmmakers," says Flickerfest director, Bronwyn Kidd. "It has evolved from a script competition to people producing their own 30-second ideas. It encourages people to get a team together and make something." From all of the entries, five finalists have now been selected, with each short film set to be showcased at Flickerfest and awarded $20k in prize money. One entrant, however, will win a major prize — $50k cash to help launch and support their creative career. While the finalists have been handpicked by a judging panel, the winner will be chosen by the general public. Voters are also in with a chance at some prize money. Voters are also in with a chance at some prize money. Tell us, in 25 words or less, why your favourite 30-second short film deserves to win. You'll then go in the draw to score a $1000 Digital Visa Gift Card. Perhaps the winner will be Edvard Christie's wine blunder with The Expert? Hannah Dougherty's hilarious crime mystery, Sketch Artist? Or the unique animated short, Garbologist? Justin Villar's The Chase makes for a thrilling TVC, while Muraya Moore's Fishtank nails the creative brief. Watch and vote for the five Flickerfest finalists at the Specsavers hub and go into the running to win $1000 — all while supporting the Australian film industry. See the full Flickerfest programme and find more information here. Lead image credit: Flickerfest
Boasting boutique accommodation, a poolside bar and an all-day bistro, Paddington's Oxford House added Bubsy's Wine and Record Bar to its offerings in 2023. It landed on Oxford Street with a P&V-curated wine list, Maybe Sammy leading the charge with the cocktails, Automata's Clayton Wells in charge of the food and a rotating list of special guests taking charge of the soundtrack. Soft lamp-lit ambience and velvety red carpets set the mood at the Paddington haunt, acting as a counterpoint to the venue's upbeat next-door neighbours, the bustling El Primo Sanchez, as well as the summer-ready Oxford House pool bar. With an intimate atmosphere and exciting drinks list, we're predicting Busby's will be an ongoing hit on Valentine's Day. Known for making eccentric drops more approachable, P&V's Mike Bennie has helped create an expansive wine list spanning bottles from Australia, France and Italy. [caption id="attachment_924013" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Parker Blain[/caption] Maybe Sammy's Paolo Maffietti has similarly ensured the cocktail list isn't too intimidating, sticking to just five signature drinks that are designed to complement the minimal-intervention vino. Sip on an Abbey Road — a combination of citrus gin, vermouth blanco, Davidson plum and champagne — or opt for the tequila, grappa and ginger wine mix of the Megatone. Public Hospitality's Group Creative Culinary Director Clayton Wells rounds out the offerings at Busby's with a snack menu you'll find difficult to turn down. Sydney rock oysters are topped with blackberry vinegar and roasted kelp oil, while the chicken liver parfait is partnered with spiced pineapple and liquorice. Then, there's the other key component of this wine and record bar: the music. Inspired by tuned-filled haunts around the world, Busby's is known to host residencies from beloved figures of Sydney's music scene. Go there with high expectations and be delighted to have them met. [caption id="attachment_924014" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Parker Blain[/caption] Images: Parker Blain and Jonny Valiant.
Over the past year and a half, A.P Bakery has built a cult following among Sydneysiders through its renowned bake sales. Initially popping up across Sydney before finding a home on the rooftop of Paramount House Hotel with A.P House, the team has been winning over locals for 18 months with its bread, pastries, pies and egg rolls. Now, A.P. has arrived in Newtown with its inaugural standalone venue, A.P Town. The bakery and cafe is tucked away behind north King Street on Bucknell Street in a quaint red-brick inner west building. Open 8am–2.30pm Wednesday–Sunday, the new outpost is sure to be a hit with inner west residents heading down for their morning coffee, a mid-week baked treat or weekend breakfast. The response has already been huge, with A.P Town selling out before midday on its first day of operation. The menu is simple. There are pies filled with pastrami, pork belly or native Warrigal greens. There are two toasties, too, a tuna melt and a next-level cheese toastie filled with onion, tomato, mustard, gruyere, asiago and cheddar. And there's an Aleppo and chickpea soup served with a buttered A.P. baguette. [caption id="attachment_858741" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Chimichurri Choripán[/caption] Then there's the Baked Today section of the menu, featuring pastries like buttermilk croissants or Aleppo pepper and asiago cheese scrolls; cakes including a chocolate and liquorice tart; and bread ranging from seeded rye loaf and baguettes through to chimichurri choripán and hazelnut, fig and apricot fruit loaf. As for the drinks, you'll find coffee supplied by Reuben Hills, tea is by Teacraft, Strange Love sodas and West End's juices and smoothies. With lines out the door expected, it's best to keep up to date with how things are selling and what new creations the A.P team is cooking up over at the A.P Bread Instagram. View this post on Instagram A post shared by A.P Bakery (@a.p.bread) A.P Town is located at 1a Bucknell Street, Newtown. It's open 8am–2.30pm Wednesday–Sunday.
The Harbord Hotel, a coastal mainstay in Freshwater, returned to the northern beaches back in 2021 following a mega makeover. Occupying the new-look ground floor is a sprawling main bar, summery terrace and Balsa — a seafood restaurant and bar serves up a menu starring foraged coastal herbs and sustainably sourced produce with salt, wood and smoke at the forefront. The drinks menu follows a similar theme with margaritas rimmed with smoked chilli salt, volcanic coastal wines and crisp Australian beers on the docket. A dedicated list of non-alcoholic drops are also be on offer for those looking to be stay away from the booze. At the Harbord Hotel's main bar, patrons will find a menu that delivers coastal twists on the classic pub feed. From your classic steak and chips done right to the green bowl with broccolini, avocado, kale, quinoa, green goddess dressing and woodfired salmon, the menu celebrates the close relationship between the pub and the surf. Located just steps from the beach, the venue plays into its suburb's claim as the official birthplace of surfing in Australia. The sport was popularised in Freshwater back in 1915 by Duke Kahanamoku, a native Hawaiian who famously carved a surfboard from Aussie timber and hypnotised crowds at the beach. Designed by architects Alexander & Co, the fit-out includes a mural by Sydney artist Ash Holmes and a new "sun-bleached" exterior. The refurb has also unveiled sections of the pub that have been covered for decades including a heritage staircase and arches. And patrons are encouraged to rock up straight from the ocean, with spots to leave surfboards while you wine and dine. Live music is a major focus at the Harbord Hotel, too, with a full calendar of free events showcasing local northern beaches talent booked in throughout the summer. It even has its own drive through bottleshop, for those keen to take the good times home after a day at the beach. Appears in: The Best Pubs in Sydney
Here at Concrete Playground, we've made no secret of our deep infatuation with this spectacular city. From Sydney's best picnic spots to her most beckoning harbourside bars, the city offers limitless hidden corners from which to appreciate and adore her. Today, we bring you ten vantage points that show off Sydney at her finest, and boast the added bonus of delectable feasts to engage your other senses while your eyes are fixed firmly on the horizon. Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel, Watsons Bay With summer peeping just around the corner, it’s hard to imagine a more pleasant place to while away a Sunday afternoon than the new waterfront deck at the Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel. Featuring cheeky beach club decor and creative pub food with lots of sociable sharing options, the recently refurbished beer garden is an ideal setting for a long, liquid lunch with friends. Menu favourites include DIY fish tacos with just the right hidden chilli kick ($21) and a colossal serving of fried market fish with house-made tartar and chips that are crunchy and smooth in all the right places ($24). The bar hops happily from boutique beers to Marlborough sav blancs to the finest French champagnes, ensuring a tipple for every taste. The picnic-style tables tend to be jam packed with merry beach-goers, so you'll need to wait patiently for your jug of pale ale or bucket of marinated prawns. But with a killer view that unfolds from the sandy shore over the frolicking sailboats and into the city skyline, you'll be more than content to do so. Mon - Sat 10am – midnight, Sun 10am – 10pm; 1 Military Road, Watsons Bay; (02) 9337 5444; www.watsonsbayhotel.com.au Botanic Gardens Restaurant, Royal Botanic Gardens Tucked away within the picturesque Royal Botanic Gardens, the Botanic Gardens Restaurant is a hidden sanctuary you need to know to look for, as you would never guess it could exist so close to the bustling CBD. Head chef Todd Hunt recreates the garden on the plate, with efflorescent dishes that draw inspiration from their magical surroundings. Plump seared scallops rest atop a pool of smooth celeriac puree ($22), a delicate zucchini flower salad pairs velvety goat’s cheese with rich baby beetroots ($18) and a rustic house-made spaghettini is layered with earthy Swiss mushrooms, cavolo nero, duxelle and dill ($24). Zesty spring ingredients like peeled mandarin segments, seared kiwi fruit, liquorice sorbet and candied apples make for fresh, light desserts, which are accompanied by an impressive selection of teas and aperitifs. Quiet birdsong and the trickling of a nearby stream provide the perfect soundtrack to complete this whimsical garden dining experience. Breakfast Sat - Sun 9.30am - 11.30am, Lunch Mon - Sun noon - 3pm; Mrs Macquarie’s Road, Sydney; (02) 9241 2419; www.trippaswhitegroup.com.au/our-venues/Botanic-Gardens-Restaurant/3 Altitude, Sydney CBD Altitude is no ordinary restaurant. Commanding a regal view over the historic buildings of The Rocks, the gleaming sails of the Opera House and right across the bustling Bridge to the sparkling lights of Sydney’s northern suburbs, the setting is romantic and impressive and promises an extraordinary dining experience from the moment you take your seat. Momentum builds with impeccable service and your choice from an assortment of soft house-baked rolls with creamy ricotta, sea salt and honey butter. Starters include a carefully balanced cauliflower veloute ($28), poured at the table over a garden of delicate mushrooms and chopped hazelnuts and drizzled with truffle oil. The mains feature unexpected combinations that dazzle the tastebuds, like Wagyu beef with an oxtail croquette, liquorice, potato and onion ash ($47). Desserts are multi-textured and bursting with flavour, with our pick being a deconstructed cheesecake that you need to taste to believe ($19). With an encyclopaedically knowledgeable sommelier, scrumptious little palate cleansers between courses and floor-to-ceiling windows looking out over the city, Altitude is special occasion dining epitomised. Mon - Sat 6.30pm - 10.30pm; Level 36, Shangri-La Hotel, 176 Cumberland Street, The Rocks; (02) 9250 6123; www.shangri-la.com/sydney/shangrila/dining/restaurants/altitude-restaurant/ Sydney Fish Market, Blackwattle Bay The largest market of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, the Sydney Fish Market offers an outing and a meal in one, all set against the gorgeous backdrop of Blackwattle Bay and the twin spires of the Anzac Bridge. Wander through the various shops that make up the market and gawk at the dazzling variety of fresh fish and other sea creatures on display. When the time comes for lunch, you’ll be hard pressed to choose between the immaculate sliced sashimi, crispy fish and chips, the overflowing fisherman’s baskets and what are likely to be Sydney’s most reasonably priced lobsters. Devour your piscine feast at a picnic table by the harbour or stake out a spot on the astroturf just nearby. Either way, you’ll need to be able to hold your own against the circling seagulls; with seafood this fresh, it’s no wonder they too want a piece of the action. Sun - Mon 7am - 4pm; Pyrmont Bridge Road, Pyrmont; (02) 9004 1100; www.sydneyfishmarket.com.au Ormeggio, The Spit Don’t be fooled by the clean, simple lines of Ormeggio’s rustic wharf-end decor: this is anything but a normal dining experience. With an explosively innovative menu that harnesses creative techniques and unique combinations to reinvent Italian cuisine, you’ll be surprised and delighted by Alessandro Pavoni’s challenging, interesting take on food that is as much art as gastronomy. Begin with an intriguing wallaby battuta, Pavoni’s answer to steak tartare, peppered with pickled watermelon rind and amaranth and sprinkled with fine chorizo powder. Follow this with luscious burnt eggplant tortellini with spicy pistachio and Pyengana cheddar foam, ideally matched with a 2012 Mazzolino Pinot Nero, from Pavoni’s own home region of Lombardy. The dessert that is simply labelled as “carrot” is served with fennel seed ice cream, farro cream and vinegar caramel and will leave you scraping your plate in search of just one more morsel of its complex and enchanting flavours. Nestled into the outrageously gorgeous Spit marina and offering a range of special packages that make Pavoni’s two-hatted cuisine accessible (like two courses and a glass of wine for $49, Wednesday – Saturday), Ormeggio is an exciting offering for the curious foodie. Lunch Wed - Sun noon - 3pm, Dinner Wed - Sat 6pm - 11pm, Sun 6pm - 10pm; D’Albora Marinas, The Spit, Mosman; (02) 9969 4088; www.ormeggio.com.au Harbourside Indian, North Sydney On an unassuming street corner in North Sydney you’ll find Harbourside Indian, a treat of a night out overlooking Sydney’s sweetheart, the Harbour Bridge. The friendly staff will guide you toward the mixed entree platter, a mouth-watering assortment of aromatic chicken tikka, lamb seekh kebab and samosas ($10.90). A comprehensive array of delicious curries makes decision-making difficult; we particularly enjoyed the tangy mango chicken with mustard seeds ($18.90) and a traditional Rogan Josh, slow-cooked in Kashmiri spices and fresh coriander ($19.90). Soak it all up with one of seven types of naan, our favourite of which was the Peshwari version ($4), jam-packed with dried fruit, coconut and ground nuts. Ask for a table by the windows and while away an evening admiring the harbour and ordering round after round of the addictive pappadums with mint chutney ($2.90). Mon - Sun Lunch noon - 3pm and Dinner 5pm - 10.30pm; 5 Walker Street, North Sydney; (02) 9922 2787; www.harboursideindian.com.au Ripples, Chowder Bay From any table on the breezy waterside deck at Ripples Chowder Bay, spectacular views extend as far as the eye can see. Watsons Bay and Nielsen Park decorate one horizon, the northern headlands cradle the harbour on the other, while the foreground boasts the pretty greenery of Clifton Gardens. The food is simple, traditional and entirely delectable. Begin with a wild mushroom bruschetta with sous vide egg ($18) and continue your feast with house-made pappardelle with braised duck ragu ($28) or perfectly cooked beef tenderloins with marrow butter, potatoes, truffle cream, cherry tomatoes and jus ($32). Complete your meal with a wickedly rich flourless chocolate cake drenched in salted caramel sauce ($15) or a punchy espresso with petit fours. Seamlessly executed food, friendly service and astonishingly gorgeous surroundings make Ripples an inimitable location for a long weekend lunch. Breakfast Sat - Sun 8am - 10.30am, Lunch Mon - Sun from noon, Dinner Fri - Sat 6pm - late; Building 7, Deck C, Chowder Bay Road, Mosman; (02) 9964 9998; www.rippleschowderbay.com.au The Bathers' Pavilion Gazing out over the rim of your perfect cappuccino and across Balmoral Beach to the ocean's calm, outstretched horizon is the definition of relaxation. Add to that a breakfast spread that explodes with creativity and flavour and there are few places you'd rather spend a sunny Sunday morning than at the Bathers' Pavilion Cafe. Poached rhubarb with orange and mandarin, sheep's milk yoghurt and pistachio ($18) sets the scene for Serge Dansereau's innovative approach to the most important meal of the day. From this Middle Eastern-inspired beginning, Dansereau roams to other culinary hubs around the world: a twice cooked manchego souffle is served with sauteed Swiss brown mushrooms ($22), while Filipino-style breakfast chicken is served with rice, poached egg, shallots and chilli ($23). Wash it down with a cranberry juice laced with crushed watermelon and pineapple ($7) and you'll be set for an afternoon exploring the dramatic headlands and jumping into the waves that have been tempting you endlessly while you eat. Daily noon - 5pm and 6.30 - midnight; 4 The Esplanade, Balmoral; (02) 9969 5050; www.batherspavilion.com.au Little Manly Beach Kiosk A tiny kiosk not too far from Manly's main stretch, Little Manly Beach Kiosk is one of those secret powerhouses guaranteed to induce a 'where have you been all my life' moment upon discovery by any Sydneysider. With a handful of tables scattered through a tiny deck that seems like it must literally be in the water, the kiosk offers a spectacular vista over the bay, a sparkling sheltered swimming area, and an unbeatable place to unfold a broadsheet newspaper and enjoy an espresso and a bacon and egg roll. The staff are laidback and friendly, characterised perfectly by their opening hours policy: "We are open most days from about 9am-ish, occasionally earlier, or sometimes later, we close around 3-ish in winter and are open as late as 10-ish in daylight savings ... but lately we’ve been here just about all the time.” Arrive close to 9am-ish or expect a well-worthwhile wait for your table, and bring plenty of sunscreen because, once you’re here, you’re unlikely to be leaving gorgeous Little Manly Beach in a hurry. 42 Stuart Street, Manly; (02) 9977 7104; www.littlemanlybeach.com.au Bondi Icebergs Bar food has never been more decadent, nor a view more iconic, than what's on offer at the bar at Icebergs. Whet your appetite with a frittata of black truffle, taleggio cheese and chives ($12), creamy, thick-cut polenta chips ($14) or a plate of delicate wagyu bresaola with pickled mushrooms and truffle aioli ($17). The drinks list will satisfy you irrespective of your particular poison: an elegant, international wine list hits all the right notes, the boutique beers play hopscotch across the globe from Bangkok to Piedmont, and an impressive suite of spirits has you covered from Ardbeg to Zubrowka. The vista over the saltwater pool, through the Bondi sand and out to the sprawling Pacific is a synonym for Sydney. Not just for tourists, the Icebergs Bar is the place to take a break from the grind and fall back in love with the enchantress we call home. Tue - Sat noon - midnight; Sun noon - 10pm; Level 3/1 Notts Ave, Bondi Beach; (02) 9365 9000; icebergs.com.au
Stanmore's Brighter Coffee may lay claim to the best toastie in Sydney. The menu at this quaint but beloved corner cafe is kept simple with just a few items that change between months and seasons — but one item always stays consistent, and that's the Kimcheezey toastie. The sandwich has built quite a cult following in the Inner West, pressing a healthy serving of kimchi with tomato passata and a blend of gruyere and gouda cheese between two slices of sourdough before it's toasted until perfectly golden and crunchy. It's a true delight. Depending on when you head in, you might also find a truffle and mushroom toastie, slow-roasted pumpkin or cold soba noodles joining the Kimcheezey on the menu. Plus, there will always be a selection of pretzels and pastries out the front for anyone looking for something a little lighter. The cafe was opened by the team behind the coffee roaster Made of Many, so all the beans are made in-house. No matter the variety that the baristas are working with that day, you can expect rich, drinkable coffee in the form of your classic cappuccino or latte, as well as batch and cold brew options. If you're after takeaway, you can nab a sunny patch of concrete on the corner of Northumberland Avenue and Salisbury Road to wait for your order surrounded by many of the neighbourhood dogs. Or, if you're eating in, you'll find a casual dining room filled with couches and houseplants that feels more akin to a welcoming friend's living room than your usual cafe seating area. Appears in: The Best Cafes in Sydney
Bold plaids, dramatic silhouettes — Katharina Lou certainly knows how to make a moodboard come to life with her cult namesake label. The slow fashion icon doesn't disappoint with her dinner parties either. [caption id="attachment_1083319" align="alignnone" width="2560"] Image supplied[/caption] Chic and convivial, Girl Dinners are a prompt to, as the brand's tagline goes, dress the fuck up. This March, its third edition will be held over a three-course dinner at the cosy Arms Length in Potts Point. Raise a glass or two with other like-minded guests as wines (and non-alcoholic bevvies) flow all night long. Got your eye on a Katharina Lou piece? You might just get lucky with the loot in a complimentary gift bag. Otherwise, each ticket also comes with a $40 Katharina Lou voucher. All dietaries are welcome — simply leave a note at checkout and you'll be taken care of. Girl Dinner with Katharina Lou will run from 6–9pm on Thursday, March 26. For more information, visit the website. Like what you see? Subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter to get stories just like these straight to your inbox.
Sydneysiders don't let a little cold or rain stop them from heading to the pub to catch up with mates. If you ask us, the biggest factor that'll make or break a drinking sesh is the food — whether it's a pre-game feast or some cheeky snacks to keep the good vibes going. From locally sourced produce to Mediterranean-inspired bites and juicy burgers, the menus at these beloved pubs cater to all palates. With the help of Solotel, we've rounded up five Inner West mainstays that offer impressive dishes to pair with your drinks, so your next get-together can continue well into the night.
Every Wednesday, live jazz takes over the Cricketers Arms in Surry Hills when guitarist Arthur Washington storms with his Sexytet. That's Arthur and two other guitarists — his brother, Jerry, and mate, Jack Ray — along with bassist Matt Lamb, plus saxophonists Ross Harrington and Chris O'Dea. They bust out jazz classics, like George Gershwin's 'Our Love Is Here To Stay', Frank Perkins' 'Stars Fell On Alabama' and Carl Sigman's 'Crazy He Calls Me', and transform them into long, hard-swinging jams. Special guests join in most nights. The free gigs starts at 7.30pm and kicks on for three sets. That gives you plenty of time to work your way through the Crix's craft beer on tap selection and tuck into some solid pub grub.
Taylor Swift has already played Australia in 2024, as the entire country knows. Billie Eilish will hit the country's stages in 2025. Arriving in-between: Olivia Rodrigo, with the former Disney talent — see: Bizaardvark and High School Musical: The Musical: The Series — bringing her huge GUTS world tour Down Under in October 2024. When we say huge, we mean it. With the addition of four Aussie dates alongside new gigs in Bangkok, Thailand, Seoul, Hong Kong, Tokyo and Singapore, the tour now spans 82 concerts around the globe. In Australia, Rodrigo has a two-night date with Melbourne and then another two with Sydney. Fans elsewhere, you'll be needing to travel. Touring in support of her second studio album that's also called GUTS, three-time Grammy-winner Rodrigo is hitting Rod Laver Arena Wednesday, October 9–Thursday, October 10 to start her Aussie visit. The next week, from Thursday, October 17–Friday, October 18, she'll play Qudos Bank Arena. In both Sydney and Melbourne, New Zealand singer-songwriter Benee will also take to the stage in support This is 'Drivers License', 'Good 4 U' and 'Vampire' singer Rodrigo's first arena tour, as well as her first tour Down Under — and she'll have her debut album SOUR to work through as well. The GUTS tour started in Palm Springs in February, saw Rodrigo do four shows at Madison Square Garden in April, and is currently making its way around the UK before heading to Europe, back to the US, then to Asia and Australia. Olivia Rodrigo GUTS World Tour 2024 Australian Dates: Wednesday, October 9–Thursday, October 10 — Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne Thursday, October 17–Friday, October 18 – Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney Olivia Rodrigo is touring Australia in October 2024. Ticket presales start at 1pm on Wednesday, May 15, and general sales at 1pm on Thursday, May 16 — head to the tour website for further details. Images: Chris Polk, Polk Imaging.
There are plenty of ways to pretend that it's the 80s, you live in Hawkins, Indiana and vanquishing a demogorgon is your life's mission. Listening solely to eerie synth tunes, devouring pop culture from the era, playing Dungeons & Dragons — they all fit, and so does binging Stranger Things, of course. But for one morning only, if you happen to be in the vicinity of Bondi Beach, you can go a step further. Always wanted to have an encounter with the Upside Down (well, since 2016, when the hit Netflix series first appeared)? Until 12pm today, Friday, May 27 — aka right now — you can. An IRL Upside Down rift (not to be confused with a Fast and Furious drift) has taken over the famed stretch of sand in front of the skate park, but only for a few hours. Of course, when we say real, we all know that it's a Netflix promotional stunt and not really an opening to a terrifying, monster-filled alternate dimension — but hey, if you've been counting down the years between Stranger Things' third and fourth seasons, you'll be happy to go along with it. Glowing red in its centre — naturally — and filled with branch-like vines that stick out from that luminous void, this rift isn't small. It measures 20 metres by 16 metres in size, in fact. So, again, if you're in the area, you really can't miss it. And if you're a Sydneysider who now wants to take a detour to work, or a mid-morning trip, that's understandable. If you follow the Netflix Australia and New Zealand Twitter account, you might've already made the journey — yesterday, on Thursday, May 26, it teased that something spooky was coming between 7am–12pm today, complete with coordinates (written upside down, of course). That means you may have already seen the scientists patrolling the area in hazmat suits, too, and lifeguards setting up a perimeter. The reason for the Upside Down arriving Down Under: the return of Stranger Things after a three-year gap, with the first seven episodes in the show's fourth and penultimate season hitting Netflix today, at 5pm AEST, as well. Bondi is one of 15 sites in 14 countries getting a taste of the Upside Down — alongside the Empire State Building in New York City, Duomo Square in Milan, Malecon Barranquilla in Colombia, the Gateway of India in Mumbai, Menara Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, Al-'Ula National Monument in Saudi Arabia, Cologne Media Park in Germany, XBox Plaza in Downtown Los Angeles, Wawel Castle in Krakow, Medborgarplatsen in Stockholm, the Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao; and the Telefónica building and Plaza del Callao in Madrid. London and Tokyo are also on the list. It's been a big few years for pop culture-themed pop-ups in Australia, with the Upside Down following in Borat, Nicole Kidman, Homer Simpson and the creepy Red Light, Green Light doll from Squid Game 's footsteps in Sydney. Homer Simpson's huge head made its way to Queensland, too, while Melbourne scored an Everything Everywhere All At Once-style multidimensional laundromat and a massive Timothée Chalamet mural to promote Dune. Find the Stranger Things Upside Down rift at Bondi Beach until 12pm on Friday, May 27. You can also watch the first seven episodes of Stranger Things season four via Netflix from 5pm AEST on Friday, May 27 — and read our full review. Images: courtesy of Netflix and Aquabumps.
From Etymon Projects, the team behind the north shore's popular Loulou Bistro, Boulangerie & Traiteur, comes an elegant venue in an art deco building within Sydney's CBD. Much like its counterpart north of the bridge, The Charles Grand Brasserie & Bar folds many different types of establishments into one multi-faceted one-stop shop. This time, the King Street spot is part-European brasserie, part-laidback café and part-bar. "The Charles celebrates the charm of old-school hospitality without the stuffiness," says The Charles Grand's Director of Culinary Sebastien Lutaud. "The grand brasserie experience is elegant and decadent, but with ambience too. A busy, open kitchen; duck press on the pass; tableside saucing and carving; and roving dessert trolleys create a wonderful sense of theatre that's reminiscent of the warm and welcoming brasseries of Europe." Taking from the tradition of many of Europe's longstanding brasseries, the restaurant boasts two must-try house specialities. The first is a MBS9+ black oak wagyu rump cap ($82), while the other is the classic French Canard à la Presse ($170), both of which are designed to be shared. The whole dry-aged Maremma roasted and dressed duck used in the Canard à la Presse is prepared in a dedicated duck and poultry room which allows The Charles' chefs to dry-age 100 birds at a time, for ten days each. From there, they're roasted until they have a perfectly crispy skin. Marinated octopus ($24) and steak and anchovy tartare ($34) are highlights from the entree menu, alongside a must for any luxurious French spot — caviar service ($140–420). As for the mains, you can opt for a grand schnitzel topped with salted roe ($55), crayfish vol-au-vent ($62), or an aged rack of lamb ribs ($58) just to name a few. "Refined, elegant food created using predominantly French techniques is how I've approached this menu. We hero the superb produce by serving it simply with a delicious sauce or consommé poured tableside, for example, rather than with overly complex or fussy garnishes," says executive Chef Billy Hannigan who will be flexing his classic French culinary training in the kitchen. There's a collection of more than 600 both French and Australian wines to sort through, with up to 50 available by the glass for those that like to sample throughout the night. Over at the bar, things are a bit more casual. Opening from 7am each day, city-dwellers and CBD workers can come in for an espresso and a freshly baked croissant ($6), crumpet ($6) or pastry. From 11am, the menu shifts to approachable French and European-inspired dining, ranging from pork crackling ($9) and chicken liver parfait ($22) through to flat-iron steak ($68) and butter lettuce salads ($14). Etymon Projects enlisted to H&E Architects, in collaboration with COX to create a venue that celebrates its building's historic art deco design with flourishes of black nero marble and brass. The venue will provide Sydneysiders with the opportunity to set into a decedent European holiday, any time of day, with both venues to remain open until midnight. Top image: Steven Woodburn
If clothes make the man, the beard defines the attitude. Whether it's a sharp stubble, a neat fade or a bold statement moustache, the right grooming routine can elevate your whole look. That's where the Philips OneBlade 360 comes in. This all-in-one tool is built to trim, edge and shave any length of hair with precision and ease, thanks to a flexible 360-degree blade that follows the contours of your face, a five-in-one adjustable comb and a fast-moving cutter that can deal with hair of any length. To show what it can do, we've teamed up with Joe Kurdyla from Melbourne barbershop Kings Domain to walk us through four trending facial hair styles that you can nail at home with the Philips OneBlade 360. Short stubble Effortless and universally flattering, a tidy five o'clock shadow is an easy way to look put-together without appearing as though you've tried too hard. Keep it sharp by using the adjustable guard to maintain your preferred length, and let the 360-degree blade do the heavy lifting. Neat beard A short-to-medium beard with faded sides and defined edges is a low-maintenance way to enhance your face shape and jawline while still looking professional. No fuzz, no fuss. The OneBlade's precision trimmer lets you clean up the neckline and cheeks in seconds, keeping things fresh between barber visits. Full beard Bold, rugged and full of character, a full-length beard is a surefire way to make a statement. Use the OneBlade to shape and edge around the beard, especially around the cheeks and neckline, so it stays strong rather than scruffy. Retro moustache Throwback alert: whether you're going for the retro Tom Selleck look or prefer a neater, cleaner look (think: Nathan Cleary), the OneBlade's dual-sided blade helps you define edges with total control. Ditch the guard, tidy the stubble around your mo and let the whiskers take centre stage. For more information on the Philips OneBlade 360, head to the brand's website.
Inimitable frozen dessert guru Nick Palumbo is responsible for making gelato the hottest thing in Sydney served below 0°C. His revered Gelato Messina sets the benchmark for gelato in Australia, taking a traditional Sicilian craft (everything is made from scratch using raw, natural ingredients) and carefully folding in an avant-garde approach towards flavours (there are six to seven specials released each week, with even the most deceptively unassuming beige ones accumulating Facebook likes in the hundreds). Now he's been tasked with the duty of finding one Australian craftsman blending tradition with inspiration. Ketel One has snagged Nick to sit on the judging panel of their Modern Craft Project, which you might remember us talking about here and which you should probably enter if you have a traditional craft, an entrepreneurial spirit and a partiality towards $100,000 cash prizes. Before the competition kicks off we stole a few minutes out of Nick's busy schedule to get the scoop on his idiosyncratic approach to artisan gelati. Concrete Playground (CP): Why gelato? Nick Palumbo (NP): In Messina, Sicily (where we are from) there is a huge culture of gelato and I wanted to create a brand that used traditional craftsmanship but was flexible in the sense that there is no limit to how creative you want to be. CP: What flavours did you launch Gelato Messina with back in 2002? NP: We only had 20 basic flavours back then but there was always a focus on quality. The innovation started to come in about two years later once we gained the trust of our customers. Coconut lychee, which sounds boring now, was our first "experimental flavour" back then. CP: Why did you decide to do the Gelato Messina Lab? NP: Because in the gelateria, we thought we had taken the quality side of things to quite a high level and all we had now was innovation of flavours. We wanted to push the boundaries a bit and marry in the world of high end patisserie with gelato, and saw it as a huge challenge and something that, to our knowledge, no one had done before. CP: The cakes are incredibly intricate — which one is the most satisfying to assemble? NP: The Black Forest, there are lots of components and the end result looks amazing. CP: They also incorporate many ingredients that aren't normally found in frozen desserts. Which ingredient poses the most problems? NP: All the jellies, they are hard to make soft at -18°C! CP: How do you come up with new flavours? NP: Basically we look for inspiration everywhere, especially from the world of patisserie, but it's also about continually finding flavours that work together. CP: What flavour has been the biggest surprise for you in terms of popularity? NP: Salted Caramel and White Choc Chip. It's now our best seller yet but when it first came out I actually heard a few people saying they didn't like it. Now those same people love it. CP: Obviously coming up with flavours must involve a lot of trial and error. What have been some of the errors? NP: Tomato sorbet. CP: I read a story about the frontman of Amy Meredith turning to his Facebook fans to demand the return of this favourite flavour (Elvis the Fat Years, which was then reborn as Christian Skinny Jeans). Is there anyone else you would like to reincarnate as gelato? NP: My three-month-old boy! The Milky Bar Kid. CP: Why did you want to become involved with the Ketel One Modern Craft Project? NP: Because Ketel One is an amazing brand full of history, which is my dream for Messina, and because there is not much in the way of support in this country for young people with a passion to do good things so anything that will help support artisans is something I'd like to be a part of. CP: What is next for Gelato Messina? NP: We open in Bondi in the middle of next year and we open in China (Hangzhou) in April next year. CP: And finally, cup or cone? NP: Silly question, CONE!
That age-old act of verbalising frustration, anger or in some instances passion, in the form of a swear word is generally seen as a crass act. But artist Theo Olesen has turned this everyday language into illustrations that prove even the most profane words can be beautified with good design. When Olesen was in kindergarten learning four-letter words, he recalls suggesting 'fuck' as a four-letter word beginning with 'F'. Since then, his fascination with profanity has evolved into finely illustrated graphics that he posts on his online blog, Beautiful Swear Words. Barely two months old, his blog has already attracted over 2,000 followers. Not bad for a 17-year-old who cites "fun" as his motivation for illustrating profanities. Olesen updates his blog daily with hand drawn illustrations of swear words ranging from 'boobs' to 'gonads' and has begun making his illustrations available for purchase on t-shirts. Why say it when you can wear it?
Plan a trip to South Australia, and spending time surrounded by grapes is probably on your agenda. This year, you can pair all those winery visits with plenty of pumpkins, too, because Yayoi Kusama's pumpkin-focused infinity room The Spirits of the Pumpkins Descended into the Heavens will display at the Art Gallery of South Australia from Friday, April 1. Australia just keeps going dotty for Kusama. Brisbane's Gallery of Modern Art's hosted a kaleidoscopic exhibition dedicated to the Japanese artist back in 2017, her Obliteration Room has proven a hit in the Sunshine State several times and, going one better, Canberra's National Gallery of Australia acquired The Spirits of the Pumpkins Descended into the Heavens back in 2018. While the latter is a permanent addition to the NGA's collection, it's also going on the road on — which is why Adelaide is your next place to see oh-so-many dots. The piece was first exhibited in 2015. Comprised of a mirrored cube filled with yellow, dot-covered pumpkins, it's a quintessential Kusama work. Whether you're a devoted fan who considers visiting the artist's own Tokyo museum a bucket-list moment, or someone who has simply placed stickers around one of her obliteration rooms, you would've noticed that dots and the concept of infinity are crucial to her art — "our earth is only one polka dot among a million stars in the cosmos," she says. Inside the cube, the bulbous vegetables appear to create an endless field thanks to the shiny surface. On the outside of the cube, the structure's mirrored exterior reflects the yellow-and-black walls in the surrounding installation room — again, making it appear as though the pattern stretches on forever. The NGA's acquisition was made possible via a gift from Andrew and Hiroko Gwinnett, which is also supporting the infinity room's tour. AGSA hasn't revealed how long it'll be on display, but entry will be free — and it's obviously a must-visit addition to any Adelaide itinerary. Images: Installation view, THE SPIRITS OF THE PUMPKINS DESCENDED INTO THE HEAVENS by Yayoi Kusama, 2017, National Gallery of Australia, Canberra. © Yayoi Kusama, courtesy of Ota Fine Arts, Tokyo/Singapore/Shanghai.
For more than two decades, every Australian kid was familiar with Aerobics Oz Style. It's the show that kept TV-loving children from their early-morning cartoon fix — airing each day before Cheez TV and its predecessors started. Back then, between 1982–2005, the sight of leotards, tights and leg warmers probably brought a frown to your face. Now, while we're all trying to keep active in isolation, it's reason to smile. Bust out your best retro workout outfit and get ready to stretch, bend, step and tone — because Network Ten has just dropped a heap of old-school episodes on its free streaming platform. Over at 10Play, 15 90s-era instalments of Aerobics Oz Style are now available to watch (complete with 90s-era soundtracks). The bulk were first aired in February 1995; however you can also get sweaty to episodes from April and October 1996, December 1997 and February 1998 as well. Most of the available episodes were filmed in a studio, so prepare not only for some thoroughly 90s activewear fashions, but also for pastel-heavy set design from the period. If you're eager to get a glimpse of Sydney from more than 20 years ago, though, three of the episodes were shot at various outdoor locations around town — so you can get fit and check out the scenery. Need an amusing reminder of what you're in for? In 1998, TISM satirised the show in the music video for their single 'Whatareya?', which you can watch below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GiHdpAVIHgo To sweat your way through 15 retro episodes of Aerobics Oz Style, head to 10Play.
Heading down vaguely eerie Sydenham Road, you may fear you've missed a turn somewhere along the way as airplanes swoop directly overhead. Just when you're sure the street is a tad too quiet, around the bend — marked with a giant painting of a lumberjack-like brewer in overalls — you'll find Batch Brewing Co inside one of Marrickville's roller-doored spaces. The warmth of the space, lit by strings of fairy lights, radiates onto the footpath as locals catch up over a few fresh glasses from the brewing team — American expats Andrew Fineran and Chris Sidwa. Long, high tables lined with bar stools fill the front of the ex-industrial building, making plenty of room for their usual bustling crowds, eager to get a pint from this week's offerings. Father back into the venue, Batch makes little attempt to hide the giant steel fermenting tanks, with plush leather booths lining the walls directly facing stacks of canned brews and machinery. And should they have to? Sydneysiders today are keen to know exactly where their products come from — and these boys aren't hiding a thing. Batch was the first of the now numerous craft breweries to open in the area, paving the way for Marrickville to become — as Fineran puts it — "the craft beer capital of Australia." Since opening in 2013, the pair have faced legal difficulties, treading a path no one had walked before, but with City Council support Batch Brewing Co. opened, and Marrickville is all the better for it, gaining a vibrant and diverse community built from the ground up. And with the addition of the new Sydney Metro at the Sydenham train station just a five-minute walk away, traveling to this suburb staple has never been easier. With a consistently stellar core range — a standout being their nitrogenated Milk Stout — these Marrickville veterans would already be worth a visit. However, on average the brewers produce a brand new beer every five days, meaning taps rotate out consistently. "For us, it's really just about just keep the variety coming in, making something that we're interested in," says Fineran. "That way, people know they're most likely going to get something different every time they come in... there's a good chance there's a beer they've never tried." Be sure to check their website regularly for what's on tap that week, and stop in Tuesday through Sunday for a bite from local food trucks — best enjoyed with a cold glass. "Our thing is to live our name Batch," Fineran says. "Do new and different beers all the time." Appears in: The Best Sydney Brewery Bars for 2023
With its rolling hills, picturesque vineyards, and delicious food scene, the Orange region has everything you need for a relaxing and rejuvenating vacation away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Whether you're planning a quick weekend trip, a longer four-day stay, or an extended winter break, our guide — curated with the local legends Orange360 — will help you make the most of your time in the area. Pack your bags, grab your coat and get ready for an unforgettable winter adventure in this charming New South Wales region. WEEKEND If you only have a couple of days to explore this foodie's paradise this winter, it's best to focus on the region's highlights: wine, food and views. These can, of course, be combined in whatever accommodation option you choose. If you're keen on tasting wines, why not stay at a winery with glamping options? Or if food is more your thing, then you've got studio cabins over a cherry orchard. Check out our round-up of cosy accommodation options in the region if you're keen to stay a while. Since you've only two days, it's best to stick close to the centre to ensure you get as much as possible packed into your weekend. Either arrive in the morning or save the early commute and drive up the night before and stay in one of the aforementioned snug stays. First off, we're going to get our blood pumping and our tasting tested. Grab breakfast at the iconic Agrestic Grocer. This humble grocer in the heart of Orange sells some of the region's finest produce — everything from beer soap to local wines. There's also a cafe attached that has an all-day breakfast and lunch menu with items like the classic brekkie roll, grilled focaccia with season veg and pesto, okonomiyaki and 'Recovery Feast' — a full breakfast to ensure you have the calories needed to continue on your adventure. Once fed and watered, grab a few bits to make a picnic out of the sensational local bread, cheese and produce available in the store. The next stop is your workout for the weekend. You've got the supplies, so it's fitting you should find a picnic spot. A short 12-minute drive away, you will find Lake Canobolas Reserve, located at the base of Mount Canobolas. The lake and its surroundings are home to an abundance of native flora and fauna. At the northern end of the reserve, you'll find a walking and cycling trail that leads to a suspension bridge over Molong Creek. You can stop there or continue back on to the town — the total track is about 8.5-kilometres and takes approximately two hours, whereas it takes 30–60 minutes to get to the bridge. At the southern end, there is another walking trail that circumnavigates the lake — it's a 2.4-kilometre easy loop and takes about 30–60 minutes depending on how long you spend looking for echidnas by the water and has plenty of areas suitable for your picnic overlooking the gorgeous scenes in the reserve. If you need a pick-me-up after your trek, you can grab a flat white at the Lakeside Kiosk & Cafe. Now, it's time to test your palate and indulge in some of the region's finest wines. Canobolas is the centre for many of the region's best-known wineries — and there are many to choose from. You could head over to Printhie Wines, just a short drive from the reserve. Owned by the Swift family, it's a five-star Halliday-rated winery. It's also relatively young for the region as the first vineyard was planted in 1996. Experience the stunning vistas over the hills to the landscape below as you enjoy a wine tasting. Or have an early dinner (or second lunch) with the four-course degustation, described as a "destination dining experience" — with the option to upgrade to wine pairings for each dish. On day two, it's time to focus on the city centre. After breakfast, get in some retail therapy along the high street, and check out Hawkes General Store for a browse and coffee. Have lunch at Groundstone, one of Orange's most popular cafes serving up seasonal dishes that highlight the fresh produce of the region. It is attached to The Orange Regional Gallery, where you should spend your afternoon exploring the current exhibitions before heading back on the road home. FOUR-DAY STAY Four days in the region allow for a bit more breathing room in your plans to explore the region, especially if you are there to enjoy the Winter Fire Festival when wineries wine and dine their guests with unique events around the theme of crackling fire. Enjoy a delicious meal and rich red wines — all locally produced — under a starry night sky throughout the course of the festival. You can follow the itinerary for the weekend but a longer stay means you can perhaps explore further afield. Save one day for a jaunt out to Carcoar, a charming heritage town about 30 minutes from Orange. You'll find quaint homeware stores, historic buildings and delicious dishes. Speaking of which, instead of just visiting one winery, make sure you set aside at least a day in your four-day sojourn to visit some of the region's finest winemakers. Near Mount Canobolas, you'll find Swinging Bridge Winery, a family-owned estate with commanding views of the mountain. In addition to the standard cool-climate wines you will find at most wineries in the region — think pinot noir, shiraz, riesling and chardonnay — you will also find some interesting drops here at Swinging Bridge. The hashtag (#) range features fun experimental wines that showcase the exceptional fruit of the region in a new way. As this range is experimental, you never know what will be available. One standout is the Tempinot, a luscious combination of the bold tempranillo grape and the softer pinot noir. LONGER Lucky you, you get to experience this region for even longer. And there is still oodles left to explore. A leisurely 25-minute drive from Orange, Molong is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With its captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality. Stop in at Molong Stores, offering a curated range of local and international brands — specialising in hats and gifts for men. Pop across the road to Lime and Stone for coffee and a bite to eat. And a must-visit in the area is Yuranigh's Grave, the only known site in Australia where Aboriginal and European burial practices coexist. If you haven't been overindulging at the winter festival or while enjoying a tipple at one of the cosy cabins in the region, pull yourself out of bed in the morning in time to hike up to the Pinnacle Lookout. The view from Towac Pinnacle lookout at sunrise is well worth the effort — although it is equally as stunning at sunset, too. Set amongst the tall shady gum trees, the reserve features picnic shelters for you to enjoy your morning brew from a local cafe while you watch the Orange region wake up to a new day and uninterrupted views across Towac Valley. On your way back to the city, stop in for a taste of Asia in the heart of Orange CBD at Mr Lim. The menu is a celebration of the restaurant's owner and namesake's life experiences. You will find Korean, Japanese and Chinese items on the menu created using the bountiful produce of the region. Standouts are the drunken duck — made with marinated local and Chinese shaoshing wine and seasonal citrus — and the 'Let Sammy Feed You' banquet menu, with fried Korean curry bun, dumplings, sashimi, bossam, Korean-fried chicken and much more. Continue to discover unique wineries west of the city. First stop, the family-owned estate that's sure to get wine lovers' taste buds tingling: Patina. Here, owner and winemaker, Gerald Naef, blends age-old traditions with cutting-edge methods to create his boutique range of wines. Sip on the fruits of his labour while rugged up and exploring the garden — you may even spot a nibbling wallaby exploring the conifers, lavender and heritage roses. If you haven't had your fill of wine from the region — honestly, how could you? — ChaLou Wines in Emu Swamp is a must-visit if you have longer to stay. Owners Nadja and Steve are self-professed "farm kids" and are passionate about leaving the land better than they found it. Vines and winemaking aren't the only activities happening on the 65-hectare property. Their farm is home to sheep, horses and a flock of chooks. The winery has three ranges, each with its own unique style: Dreaded Friend (fun, vibrant and creative vinos), The Somm and the Winemaker — the result of a partnership between Nadja and Sydney sommelier Louella Matthews — and, of course, the ChaLou Estate range with classic varieties from the Orange region: chardonnay, pinot noir and riesling. Book a tour and a tasting while there to see what's happening in winter. For your final night in the region, head down to the heart of Orange to The Union Bank where you'll find locals and visitors sitting down to have a chat and a drink with one another. As the name suggests, the pub was originally a bank but is now a thriving local food and hospitality precinct. The seasonal menu highlights the rich food and wine culture of the region and is designed to celebrate the social aspect of dining — in other words, it's meant to be shared. There are small and large share plates and an option for the chef's choice degustation with paired local wines on offer as well. It's an ideal locale to celebrate your last wintry night in this charming region. It won't be long until you are dreaming of returning to see how the region evolves in spring. Plan your excursion to wine country for when the Orange Winter Fire Festival takes place each August — showcasing the best of an authentic country winter through a series of events. Images: Orange360
Rounding up your mates to celebrate a birthday in Sydney is meant to be something to look forward to all year, not an unnecessary source of stress and drama. But between conflicting schedules, dietary restrictions and different budgets, trying to pick the perfect restaurant or bar can be such a nightmare, that you'd be forgiven for just giving up and spending your birthday eating pizza on the couch. As understandable as this approach may be, it's also far from ideal. To make sure it doesn't happen, we've found some of the best places to celebrate your birthday in Sydney. Each of these eight spots has stellar food and drink offerings, enough space for larger groups and great atmosphere that doesn't translate into a budget-breaking bill, letting you tick off all the boxes with glorious ease. Picking any of these people-pleasers is a foolproof way to make sure that everyone — including yourself — will be heading home happy. Cheers to that. Recommended reads: The Best Sydney Restaurants with Private Dining Rooms The Best Restaurants in Sydney The Best Bars in Sydney
If you thought eating out meant leaving man's best friend behind, think again. More and more eateries are allowing diners to feast with Fido by their side — and sometimes you won’t even be banished outdoors. Whether you’re looking for a casual cafe, a place to pamper your pooch or simply want to enjoy a pint with a pup at your feet, the harbour city has tables aplenty for you and your hound. Here are our picks of five of the best spots in Sydney where you can dine with your dog. DUCK INN PUB AND KITCHEN A dog in a pub is a fine tradition and all credit to the Duck Inn for allowing this custom to live on. When so many dog-friendly venues are outdoors-only, it’s handy to have a place to retire to in rough weather. The Duck Inn is a homely hideaway where you can snuggle into a soft sofa, tuck into a Sunday roast or chill out with a burger and beer. There are light, bright interiors inside or a spacious beer garden if you want a breath of fresh air. 74 Rose Street, Chippendale; (02) 9319 4415; www.theduckinnpubandkitchen.com THE WINERY The intimate laneway atmosphere of The Winery, one of Surry Hills’ hotspots, is ideal for dogs. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Crown Street, a wall of pot plants creates a leafy barrier from the city. Dogs are allowed in the outdoor courtyard and, as long as the weather’s fine, there’s no better place to be. If you can bear to share, meaty treat starters like sausage roll, ox heart or even bone marrow with toast are sure to go down well with your four-legged friend. It’s the perfect place for date night... with the dog. 285a Crown St, Surry Hills; (02) 9331 0833; www.thewinerysurryhills.com.au CAFE BONES An institution among city canines, Cafe Bones is destination dining for dogs. Next to the off-leash Hawthorne Canal Reserve, it’s outdoor seating only but worth braving even inclement weather so you can treat your mutt to a Pupaccino and maybe some of Cafe Bones’ own dog biscuits. It's the place to socialise with other dogs and their owners, or simply see and be seen with your pup. Cafe Bones, Hawthorne Canal Reserve, Leichhardt; (02) 8086 2433; www.cafebones.com.au QUEENS PARK SHED The colourful striped deck chairs outside The Shed are simply made for crashing out in after some off-leash action in Queens Park. Adjacent to the children’s playground, the old pavilion building has been transformed into a shabby chic new eatery, where gardening tools as decor and reclaimed wooden furniture create the perfect rustic retreat. Wide open doors make for a relaxed indoor/outdoor vibe and there are plenty of outdoor seats for you and your dog. The menu is a cut above usual cafe fare — the wagyu burger is so good it’s a struggle to share with your beef-loving best mate. Queens Park (Darley Road side); (02) 9380 9350; www.queensparkshed.com.au CHEW CHEW A cafe where only your dog will get served — now that has to be refreshing for those disgruntled dog-owners who’ve been denied admission with their mutt. The gourmet banquet (organic, thank you very much) includes sausage with sauerkraut, bolognaise, chicken risotto and salmon. Diners are able to perch at their own miniature table, although less distinguished dogs (or simply those who have been taught more conventional table manners) can eat from a dish on the floor. At $9 for a 200g serving, doggie degustation doesn’t come cheap, but there’s no arguing with the quality. Without a doubt, Chew Chew is the ultimate place to pamper your pooch. Chew Chew, Shop 3, Railway Walk, Wollstonecraft Station, Wollstonecraft; (02) 9460 7111; www.chewchew.com.au Emma Shaw (with pup Harry) blogs at Sydney Dog's Life. Check it out for more restaurant and doggie destination reviews.
Bringing more than a little adventurous spirit to all things cakes and pastries, much-loved bakery Black Star Pastry is up to its usual tricks again for Easter. More evolution than revolution this time around, they're replacing the traditional raisins and currents in hot cross buns with juicy dried blueberries. Combined with the signature spiced dough Black Star Pastry is known and loved for, this sweet and tangy burst brings a whole new element to this treasured holiday treat. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or toasted with a spread of salted butter, it promises to elevate your Easter experience. Delving a little deeper into what makes this Easter creation extra special, these blueberry hot cross buns are crafted using 100% natural ingredients. Plus, a touch of lemon zest will increase the depth of flavour and create an even more fragrant, irresistible experience that makes this treat one to remember. Yet there's still one more detail that sets this beloved sweet aside from your usual hot cross bun. Each bun is topped with a crunchy biscuit crumb topping made with dairy-free butter, flour and blueberry puree, adding just the right amount of sweetness. Shaped like the traditional cross, the purple flair gives this timeless favourite a modern appeal. "Our new blueberry hot cross bun is all about bringing a fresh twist to an iconic favourite," says Black Star Pastry Executive Chef, Arnaud Vodounou. "The blend of sweet blueberries and our signature spiced dough is sure to surprise and delight our fans. We can't wait to share it with the community and make this Easter even sweeter." Available online and in-store until Monday, April 21, you're welcome to grab a single blueberry hot cross bun or stock up with a box of six or 12, depending on how many you anticipate wolfing down over the long weekend. You should also take note that Black Star Pastry is bringing back their classic frankincense glazed hot cross buns and chocolate hot cross buns for a limited run over Easter. Black Star Pastry's blueberry hot cross bun is available until Monday, April 21 at Sydney CBD, Rosebery, Newtown, Chatswood, Parramatta and Burwood locations. Head to the website for more information.
With apologies to the many worthy winners at the 2024 Oscars, this year's ceremony will always be known for one thing. When the lights went pink, Ryan Gosling started singing from his seat in the crowd (with Margot Robbie and Billie Eilish giggling around him) and the words "doesn't seem to matter what I do…" rang out, the world began to witness Academy Awards history. His rendition of 'I'm Just Ken' from Barbie was a musical number for the ages. When he made it up to the stage to keep crooning about Kenergy, the man behind the tan and blonde fragility, it wasn't the only time that Gosling stepped up onto the platform that night. He also delivered a tribute to stunts with Oppenheimer's Emily Blunt — and the two couldn't have been better candidates to make the presentation, which doubled as a reminder that their new film was on the way. In The Fall Guy, Gosling blends his action and comedy modes to play a seasoned stunt performer. Blunt co-stars as the director of the latest flick he's working on, and also his ex-girlfriend. The picture is helmed by David Leitch, who famously was in the stunt game himself, including doubling for Brad Pitt on movies such as Fight Club and Ocean's Eleven, and also for Matt Damon, then jumping behind the camera on John Wick, Atomic Blonde, Deadpool 2, Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs and Shaw, Bullet Train and now this. Gosling and Blunt's shared portion of the Oscars ceremony was also a call to arms: stunts, despite being so crucial to the film industry, are not currently recognised by the Academy Awards. They absolutely should be. Ask Leitch if he sees The Fall Guy as helping to advance the case to recognise the field at Hollywood's night of nights and he tells Concrete Playground "that's the hope". He continues: "I think it is definitely a celebration of the stunt industry, and hopefully it continues to shine a light on how much these unsung heroes contribute to the films you guys love and we all love. You just can't separate the history of action from the history of cinema, and stunt performers have been there since the beginning." Loosely based on the 80s TV series of the same name, The Fall Guy tasks Gosling with playing Colt Seavers, who has spent much of his career making actor Tom Ryder (Aaron Taylor-Johnson, reteaming with Leitch after Bullet Train) look good. He's been out of the business after a workplace accident when he's enlisted to help out on a big-budget sci-fi blockbuster — not just to double for Tom, but to work out why the flick's star has gone missing in Sydney. Making the gig even more chaotic: plenty of nefarious folks on his tail, complete with a chase across the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Plus, there's the fact that his ex Jody Moreno (Blunt) is directing, and it's her first stint in the role. Cue an action-comedy from Leitch, plus Kelly McCormick as his regular producer, that doesn't just showcase stunts but is firmly about stunts as well. [caption id="attachment_952101" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Caroline McCredie[/caption] When The Fall Guy's shoot shut down one of Sydney's most-famous landmarks, everyone in Australia knew. It isn't every day that Gosling brings the Harbour City to a halt, after all. The bridge isn't the only part of the New South Wales capital that can be spotted in the movie, however, because this is a film that takes place in Sydney and makes the most of it. The Fall Guy is a love letter to stunts, of course, but McCormick — who also co-founded production and action design company 87North with Leitch — also considers it a love letter to its setting. Using the Sydney Opera House as the backdrop for a sci-fi shoot also isn't forgotten quickly. ("It's still so sci-fi. It's still beyond its time. It's an amazing, amazing building," says McCormick.) Leitch and McCormick returned to Sydney in early April to give The Fall Guy a big local premiere at the State Theatre. While they were in Australia, the pair also chatted with us. Leitch living the dream as a former stunt performer-turned-filmmaker now making a movie about stunts, the challenges on such a stunt-heavy film, ensuring that the movie is a mix not just of action and comedy but also mystery and romance, casting Gosling and Blunt, shooting in Sydney: we asked the duo about all of the above and more. On Living the Dream by Being a Former Stunt Performer Now Directing a Movie About Stunt Performers David: "Absolutely — I mean, the 80s TV show was one of those shows that lit the fuse of me wanting to be a stunt performer. There's a lot of wish-fulfilment in that show as a teenage kid. So it was exciting that this property would come [my way] — and obviously having 20-plus years as a stunt performer and the anecdotes and the real life experiences to go with it, I had a lot to be able to put into it. And I felt I could really talk with the authentic voice and actually give Ryan some notes from a real place." On Whether Making a Movie Like The Fall Guy Was the Plan when Leitch Was Still Doubling David: "I don't know if that was the actual aim, although I did early on get the film bug and really want to tell stories beyond the stories I was telling in the action. So, I really did lean into spending my time on set observing and learning everything I could about filmmaking process so I could move to the director chair. I was excited about directing." On the Challenges of Making a Movie That Isn't Just Stunt-Heavy, But Is Constantly Calling Attention to Stunts Because It's About Stunts Kelly: "I think every movie has its own challenges, action or otherwise. I think safety is obviously something that comes to mind that we are particularly sensitive to. When we're doing an action sequence, bringing a team together that is top of class is essential to make sure that it's as safe as possible and as creative as possible at the same time. That's always the goal. I think that's maybe a bit of extra pressure, but it's exciting in the sense that stunt performers get into the business to do stunts — so the last thing we want to do is not do stuff. It's making their dreams come true and making them viable in the film business. So it's this tricky balance of just trying to make sure that you know you're as safe as possible and you've got excellence around them, and in them, to make sure that you can give them the opportunities." David: "I think it was fun to be on the other side of it. I was a stunt coordinator for so many years that it was fun to challenge the team to do these things. I knew what they were going to have to go through to achieve them. But to be like 'good luck, guys' and just run in there and throw down the gauntlet — 'I need you to recreate some of these classic stunts from history, but just make them bigger' — that was fun for me. So I didn't feel the pressure. I made the stunt team feel the pressure and, again, I felt that for many years as a coordinator, when I've been asked to deliver things. And I certainly didn't have to feel the producorial pressures like Kelly had to feel as well. So I was just telling people what to do." On Making It an Aim to Create a Fun Vibe on Leitch and McCormick's Sets Kelly: "I have this theory that the set atmosphere flows through the film to the audience. And we actively try to keep a happy, congenial family environment on our sets, as big as they are. That's what we're always striving for and hopefully achieving. We work with a lot of our heads of departments again and again and again, and part of that is because we like their energy, we like their creativity and we like to have a family kind of atmosphere around our films." On Balancing the Mix of Action, Comedy, Romance and Mystery in The Fall Guy Kelly: It was like problem-opportunity in a sense. I consider David an atonal director — and that used to be such a dirty word, but I actually think it's such a positive thing because you never know what energy you're feeling or you're going to be having in a David Leitch film. You may be crying one moment and laughing the next, and feeling the stakes in one moment and thinking it's ridiculous another moment later. When you have three movies in the one movie, that is the bigger challenge — to strike that tone and to get all of that right. And so it was a way to challenge David in his filmmaking." David: "I loved it. I loved taking the audience on a ride. I liked what Kelly just said, laughing at one moment, being awed by spectacle the next, then pulling at the heartstrings few minutes later. And to have an a property, an IP, where we could do that and have two actors that can pull it off with you is was really, really fun to do." On Casting Ryan Gosling — and Only Approaching Ryan Gosling for the Part David: "Ryan is obviously an incredible actor. He's great at comedy. He's great at romance. And our early conversations — he was the only person we went to, and we were crossing our fingers and toes that we would get him. It was even before we had a script. But I think he saw the potential in the property and the potential in this underdog hero, and that we could create an action, hopefully, franchise where he could use all those skill sets. I think that's what he was excited about — where he could use romance and comedy, and his new action chops that he had on The Gray Man. So a lot of the DNA of the tone stems from also what Ryan was excited about doing and we all leaned in as well, and it was fun." On Casting Emily Blunt — and Shaping the Role to Suit Her Kelly: "To be honest, we just feel so lucky that we got her. Right before we went to her, we switched the role from a makeup artist to a first-time director, thinking that it raised the stakes for that character and allowed for her to be in a place where she was dealing with some really serious stuff, like the weight of her dream on her shoulders and getting that to take over directing for the first time — and then this person who basically broke her heart and she thought she was over coming in, and the last thing she ever wanted to see, and the one thing that could probably disrupt this big opportunity for her. We went to Emily right after we had come up with that idea with a very, very rough draft and felt so lucky that she saw her way into it, so that she could add so many layers. And so, in a sense, it was really tailored to her as well to like Colt was to Ryan." On Shooting in Sydney, Including on the Sydney Harbour Bridge and at Sydney Opera House Kelly: "It was really exciting, actually, to get the access to both of those two super-iconic locations. I was amazed at how much time we got at the Opera House. And we chose a scene that we could really exhibit the Opera House as something other than the Opera House — Jody Moreno is using it as the sci-fi backdrop of her epic sci-fi love story. That they allowed for us to put a bunch of sand on the beautiful stairs, and bring in waterworks so that we could make it rain, even though the sun was shining that day — and let us yank and pull and show the beauty of what a ratchet looks like in an action sequence — that stuff you don't get to see when you're normally looking at just the film, instead of the movie being made. It was really, really exciting and we just kept pinching ourselves. 'Can you believe we're just at the stairs with the Opera House here and they're letting us do this? This is a thing.' It was amazing. The whole city just really opened their arms, and wanted to solve the problems and give us access and show the town. And we just hope that everyone's really as happy with it as we are in showcasing Sydney. We really consider it a love letter to to this town." The Fall Guy releases in cinemas Down Under on Wednesday, April 24, 2024. Read our review.
Bluesfest has officially cancelled its 2026 event. In a statement on Friday, organisers attributed the decision to "rising production, logistics, insurance and touring costs, combined with softer ticket demand and international uncertainties." "For more than three decades, Bluesfest has brought extraordinary artists and audiences together in Byron Bay while also driving significant tourism and economic activity for the Northern Rivers and New South Wales," Festival Director Peter Noble said. "This makes the decision incredibly difficult. After careful consideration, we concluded we could not proceed in a way that would meet the standard our audiences, artists and partners expect." The festival had a stacked lineup planned for 2026. Headliners included Parkway Drive, Erykah Badu, The Wailers, Earth, Wind & Fire, Sublime, Counting Crows, The Black Crowes, Buddy Guy, and more. Bluesfest director Peter Noble announced last year that 2025 would be the final year, however, shortly after, he said that declaration was as much a call to action as a resignation to fate. "Do we have to say it's the last Bluesfest to get people to focus on us?" he asked at the time. Confirmation of Bluesfest 2026 then came on the same day that the Australian Greens unveiled a $20 million-a-year rescue plan to keep the country's festival scene alive and kicking. With 109,000 punters through its gates in 2025, the announcement comes as a major shock to the music community. Head to the website for more information. This article first appeared in Rolling Stone Australia. Subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter to get more stories straight to your inbox.
Parties, art, music, performances, food, stripping bare for a swim to celebrate the winter solstice: that's the Dark Mofo way, and so is weaving its anything-can-happen vibe, its beloved regular highlights, and its array of expectation-exploding shows and events into a ritual as much as a festival. The Tasmanian winter arts fest is a place to commune, with attendees and with its boundary-pushing program alike. Challenge, confrontation, evoking a strong response: Dark Mofo is a place for that, too. The festival sat out 2024, spending the time to regroup for the future ahead instead. Late that year, it announced its return for 2025, however. The full program will be unveiled at the beginning of April, but organisers have already announced the first new work. When attendees look at Nathan Maynard's We threw them down the rocks where they had thrown the sheep, they won't forget it. Set to premiere at Dark Mofo 2025 — which runs from Thursday, June 5–Sunday, June 15, 2025, except for the Nude Solstice Swim on Saturday, June 21 — the new commission by the multidisciplinary Trawlwoolway artist will take over a Hobart CBD basement. Inside, expect a commentary on cultural theft and erasure via Maynard's mass installation, using sheep heads to make a statement. "Languishing in museums and their storerooms are the remains of ancestors of First Nations people from all around our globe. They have been stripped of identity and, without consent, treated like specimens for study and scientific inquiry," explains the artist. "We threw them down the rocks where they had thrown the sheep speaks to the sadistic power white institutions flex when they deny First Nations people the humanity of putting our ancestor's remains to rest in the physical and the spiritual." When Dark Mofo's 2025 comeback was first revealed, so were the returns of a number of its beloved festivities: the aforementioned Nude Solstice Swim; Night Mass, which fills downtown Hobart with art and music; culinary highlight Winter Feast, which popped up in 2024 despite the festival around it taking a break; and the Ogoh-Ogoh. If you're wondering if the world missed Dark Mofo, the response to Night Mass alone so far says it all. When 6000 pre-release tickets were made available late in 2024, they were snapped up in less than four hours. "Taking the year off in 2024 was a difficult decision, but Dark Mofo is back with renewed energy and focus, ready to deliver an enormous program spanning two packed weeks this June," notes Dark Mofo's new Artistic Director Chris Twite. "It was encouraging to sell over 6000 Night Mass tickets in less than four hours during our pre-release late last year, indicating that demand for the festival remains strong. We are hoping for a similar response when we release the full program on the 4th April." Back in November, Twite gave a few more hints at what's in store this year. "Dark Mofo is back. For our 11th chapter, once more we'll bathe the city in red and deliver two weeks of inspiring art, music and ritual," he advised when announcing the event's 2025 dates. "Night Mass is a beast, and this year it will evolve once more — worming its way through the city with new spaces, performances and experiences to dance, explore or crawl your way through." Dark Mofo returns from Thursday, June 5–Sunday, June 15, 2025 and for the Nude Solstice Swim on Saturday, June 21. Head to the festival's website for further details — and check back here on Friday, April 4, 2025 for the full lineup. We threw them down the rocks where they had thrown the sheep images: Jesse Hunniford, 2025. Image courtesy of Dark Mofo 2025. Night Mass images: Jesse Hunniford and Andy Hatton, 2023, courtesy of Dark Mofo 2023. Winter Feast images: Jesse Hunniford, 2023, courtesy of Dark Mofo 2023. Nude Solstice Swim images: Rémi Chauvin, 2023, courtesy of Dark Mofo 2023.
Shanghai Night on Liverpool Road is one of Sydney's oldest Shanghainese restaurants. The brightly lit, loud eatery remains one of the best spots to eat in Ashfield — a suburb known for its top-notch Chinese cuisine. So, that's saying something. Just don't confuse it for New Shanghai Nights, located a mere two doors down. Settle in for piled-high plates of pan-fried pork dumplings ($8.80), steamed chicken and shiitake mushroom dumplings (from $9.80), and Shanghai-style mini pork and crab buns ($10.80). If you're in need of a heartwarming bowl of wonton soups, it's got plenty of those, too, plus a heap of mains, including king prawns with eggplant ($29.80), shredded pork in Sichuan sauce ($18.80), and crispy skin duck ($18.80).
UPDATE: MARCH 31, 2020 — The Rio is currently offering bottled cocktails and food deliveries for locals. It's got a range of specialty cocktails for $20 each, longnecks of 'hipster draught' for $15, bottles of vino from $30 and Mediterranean-style dishes should you get hungry. Check out the full menu here and call 0406 219 355 to order. For decades, The Rio was the coolest spot in Summer Hill, doling out sweets and soft drinks to cinemagoers and late-night drifters. It fell out of fashion more recently, but owner George Poulos (known as 'The General' to locals), never deviated from the old-school formula and kept dishing up the finest milkshakes in town, always immaculately dressed in a suit and tie. His shop was a labour of love, and he literally worked in the store until the day he died. Now, everything old is new again and a new team including owner Tess Robens (Newtown's Corridor) has re-opened the gem of a site as a small bar, retaining the name and paying loving homage to the venue's past life. There are, of course, some milkshakes on the drinks list and a few nods to the Greek heritage of Poulos' shop with zucchini keftedes and mini spanikopita on the menu and a mural of Dionysus, the Greek god of winemaking, on one wall upstairs. Even the cocktail menu celebrates the retro humble milk bar menu, with a cloudy concoction called the Spider Aperitif ($18). Every milk bar worth its salt has (had?) a range of soda spiders on hand, and this modern twist combines lime, agave, vermouth and a dollop of vanilla bean ice cream, complete with a small silver spoon to ensure you can scoop up every last bit of sweetness. Other cocktails on the list place an emphasis on sourcing ingredients from Australian boutiques and applying slight twists to old classics. The Aussie Negroni ($18), for instance, brings together Melbourne gin from the Yarra Valley, Maidenii sweet vermouth from central Victoria and subs out Campari for the excellent, aromatic Applewood Red Økar from the Adelaide Hills. In combination, they make for the kind of cocktail you simultaneously want to devour and savour. The food list makes a good fist of modern bar food, with small plates like grilled flatbread with that ideal thin crust and three dips ($16). The flatbread also comes as part of sharing food platters ($36 for two people, $52 for four), which arrive on a plank piled appealingly with creamy blue cheese, cornichons, salami, prosciutto and crackers. The décor is fairly modern, with familiar touches from the Sydney small bar playbook, like exposed brick, scruffy floorboards, industrial bulb lights, hanging plants and the kind of cushioned grandma chairs. Some of the wonky charm of the original 1950s signage has been thankfully retained, including the hand-painted lettering spruiking cigarettes, chocolate and more on the street windows and awnings. It's a stylish reminder of the spirit of the old milk bar which lives on in this cosy yet contemporary reboot. Images: Katje Ford.
From big pineapples to big melons to big lobsters, Australia is rather fond of a giant-sized statue. We're also the home of the big banana, big avocado, big bench and big guitar, as well as the big merino, big prawn and big potato. The big list of Big Things not only keeps going on, but has just scored a new addition, too — the Big Lollipop. To answer the obvious question: no, it isn't edible. Sorry to dash your Willy Wonka-style dreams. You will be able to stand beneath the new towering sweet and lick the real thing, however, because it happens to be located outside — where else? — a candy store. Just unveiled on Sunday, September 8 in Ravensthorpe in Western Australia — around 530 kilometres southeast of Perth, if you're planning your next road trip — the Big Lollipop stands next to the pink-hued Yummylicious Candy Shack. Owner Belinda McHarg came up with the idea two years back, as a way to help boost tourism when the local nickel mine closed down for the second time, and now this oversized candy has become a reality. Sure, everyone has seen a hefty edible lollipop before. When you were a kid, you probably convinced your parents to buy you one, couldn't get through it all, hid the rest under the couch and raced around the house in a sugar-fuelled high. We've all been there. This giant version definitely can't be eaten, and it really is giant, standing over seven metres tall (7.4 to be exact) and measuring four metres wide. It's also the world's largest freestanding lollipop, because if you're going to go big, you may as well go all the way. Painted a rainbow of colours, as plenty of smaller-sized lollipops tend to be, the Big Lollipop was launched to mark Yummylicious' third anniversary. The Big Lollipop is located outside the Yummylicious Candy Shack, 89 Morgans Street, Ravensthorpe, Western Australia. The store is open from 10am–5pm daily — for more information, visit the shop's Facebook page. Images: Dana Fairhead.
Sydney drinks and dines divinely well and it now has a sparkly new summer spot. The beach boys behind Bondi Hardware have established a balmy bar and restaurant on the lower north shore. The Botanist, sown in the central street of Kirribilli, is the small bar come grazing ground the area desired. Laden with luscious plants, lots of wood and the occasional nautical knick knack, The Botanist feels foliaceous and fanciful. Named after the English botanist who ran a bookshop on the site during the turn of the century, the place oozes Victorian apothecary-style charm; the menu is marked with botany illustrations and water is served in scientific-looking bottles. It pulls a cheery mix of locals and North Sydney workers, but with a breezy vibe you'll find more boat shoes than Blahniks. Forget a plum in the mouth, here you get the whole fruit bowl with a drinks list focusing on herbs, fruit and exotically spiced liquors. Open up The Botanist's elegant green menu and you'll see a charming Ralph Waldo Emerson quote, "What is a weed? A plant whose virtues have not yet been discovered." The subsequent cocktails, in the interests of discovering the most virtuous of verdures, feature herb flavours and curious combinations. The Green Grass ($16) has cinnamon-spiced vodka, apple syrup, fresh green apple juice and a little lime and is soul-soothing and festive. Lulu Warriors ($18) has pirate-like spiced rum, amaretto liqueur and pine-lime juice; improbably, it works. The Botanist's food is the kind of casual and slightly eccentric fare suited to sharing over drinks; with hints of British India, the elements are a modern mishmash of the spice trade. The lamb salad is robust and satisfying, with slow roasted spiced lamb shoulder with roasted capsicum, tomato, hummus, minted yoghurt, rocket and marinated fetta ($19). The sliders (4 for $20) are a big hit; these babies running the gourmet gamut from India (butter chicken with cucumber and lime relish) to Lebanon (lamb kofta, tabouli and hummus). The quesadillas, with chorizo, spiced beans, potato and cheese, are hearty and limey with tomato salsa and guacamole ($18). Sprightly and whimsical, The Botanist is abloom with good food, great drinks and a fun, furzy mood.
Pour one out, cheeseburger spring roll lovers, as long-running Sydney restaurant Ms. G's has just announced its closure. After 15 years in Potts Point, the pan-Asian eatery will shut its doors for the last time on Sunday, December 21. Launched by executive chefs Dan Hong (Mr Wong) and Jowett Yu in 2010, the Merivale-owned restaurant quickly earned a reputation for its bold, playful approach that spanned a host of Asian cuisines. Drawing inspiration from street food across the continent, locals gravitated towards the rule-breaking Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean combinations. The aforementioned cheeseburger spring rolls were a fave, but dishes like the 'Strange Flavour' burrata kept guests coming back. "Ms. G's has been a beloved part of our Merivale family and local community, and an influential component of Sydney's dining scene," posted Merivale on Instagram. With the hospo group looking ahead to "several new venues and development projects underway," Hong and Yu are also focusing more attention on their recently expanded portfolios. In the former's case, he just took over Good Luck Eating House on November 12. "We've loved every memory, meal and moment you've shared with us, and we'd love to see you before 21 December so we can send you off properly...with one last plate of our cheeseburger spring rolls," concluded the Merivale statement. Ms. G's will close its doors on Sunday, December 21, at 155 Victoria St, Potts Point. Head to the website for more information.
Situated on Kent Street alongside the likes of Papa Gede's and PS40 is Vinabar — a cosy microbar hidden behind a door disguised as a banh mi cart. If you're simply walking by, it could easily be mistaken as a spot for a quick bite as you venture through the city. Each detail throughout the moody yet sophisticated fitout tells a story. The space is adorned with vibrant silk lanterns hanging from its ceiling — which have been imported from Hoi An — a replica of the Golden Hand Bridge from Da Nang, and photographs of pre- and post-opening memories along its walls. Take a seat on either the comfortable lounge seating or at the sleek bar, and you'll be in for a treat. The brainchild of Ashwin Arumugam and Reymark Tesalona takes cues from Vietnam's lively nightlife and hospitality scene, with the intimate cocktail bar serving up stellar, Asian-inspired sips until 2am every night. Vinabar's food offering simply consists of a baby pork banh mi accompanied by a shot of Vietnamese coffee, which serves as a small bite to sustain casual drinking, or the perfect snack to satiate those hankering for a treat. The cocktail menu, however, focuses on inventive drinks with a creative Asian twist, with a new special launched every fortnight. Vinabar's main menu has four signature cocktails and one signature shot, alongside a short selection of beers, wines and mocktails. Highlights include the lychee-forward Rumble in the Jungle; a Vietnamese spin on the espresso martini known as the Cã-Phê martini; an martini inspired by banh mi; and the ginger, calamansi and tequila-starring Gaslighter — which appears similar to water but is made up almost entirely of alcohol. Plus, all of the classics are available upon request. Whether you're out on the town bar-hopping through Kent Street, enjoying an intimate night with a mate or a date, or keen for a small celebration, Vinabar is the spot for you, with space for up to 32 people. Vinabar is located at 332 Kent St, Sydney, open from 5pm–2am daily. Find out more at the venue's website. Image credit: James Scevola
The way we work out is changing. Where cookie-cutter chain gyms once dominated the playing field, the past decade has seen a steady rise in smaller, more considered operations that cater to more specific needs and wellness goals – evidenced by the continuing proliferation of bathhouses dotted around town. At the forefront of this wellness revolution in Sydney is homegrown brand One Playground, which bills itself as a 'superboutique' studio that blends cutting-edge training, boutique-style classes and next-level recovery, all under one roof. And it's this model that One Playground has now debuted in Sydney's west with the opening of One Playground Merrylands, a sprawling two-level facility spread across 3000 square metres. Located within the architecturally striking Mason & Main mixed-use precinct, the new gym — the group's largest to date — boasts a massive 1500-square-metre training floor fitted with over 100 state-of-the-art machines, from Technogym cardio equipment to custom Gym80 strength machines and sleek, stainless steel Watson dumbbells. Plus, 11 squat racks, 24 benches and four leg press machines means less chance of awkwardly standing around waiting for equipment to free up. There's also a quieter Comfort Zone catering to those seeking a more relaxed training environment, whether warming up or cooling down. Beyond the weights room, six purpose-built studios offer over 300 classes every week. Whether you're punching it out in the boxing-focused Legacy room, flowing through a yoga class in Space or pushing your limits in high-intensity Force classes, there's a variety and volume of programming that you'll be hard pressed to find at any other gym. Add in reformer pilates and semi-private studios, and there's something for every fitness level and personality. It's not all pumping and grinding, though, as One Playground Merrylands also has a big focus on recovery. The expansive studio features a dedicated tranquil zone featuring private infrared saunas and communal traditional saunas, ideal for post-workout resets or mindful solo sessions. Think of it as a one-stop shop for both performance and restoration, all under one beautifully designed roof. And it's in its design that the gym truly sets itself apart. Inspired by the opulence of Dubai and Morocco, the interiors channel desert resort vibes, from its soaring 5.5-metre-high ceilings framed with elegant arched windows, to the terracotta-rendered walls, natural stone accents and micro-cement floors. A custom pink marble water fountain anchors the wellness lounge, setting the tone in the tranquil space. "One Playground Merrylands is our most exciting project to date — it's an ambitious design on an enormous scale, unlike anything else in the world," says Justin Ashley, One Playground CEO and Co-Founder. "When we started this project three years ago, it was always more than 'just another gym'. Our goal was to bring a world-class health and wellness destination to Western Sydney." It's fair to say the brief has been nailed. One Playground Merrylands is now open at 233 Merrylands Road, Merrylands. It's open to members 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For more information, head to the studio's website.
John Malkovich took time off from being John Malkovich to be Everyone Else for a change. Shot by Sandro Miller in Los Angeles, a new series of photographs dubbed Malkovich, Malkovich, Malkovich recreate some of the most iconic portraits in recent history — from John and Yoko to Che Guevara, Dorothea Lange's Migrant Woman to Andres Serrano's Piss Christ. According to the exhibition statement, Miller decided to undertake the project in 2013, wanting to honour the photographers whose work had inspired him and shaped his career. After selecting thirty five images to recreate, Miller got in touch with his ol' mate Malkovich — who apparently immediately agreed. "John is the most brilliant, prolific person I know," says Miller. "His genius is unparalleled. I can suggest a mood or an idea and within moments, he literally morphs into the character right in front of my eyes. He is so trusting of my work and our process… I'm truly blessed to have him as my friend and collaborator." All at once creepy and genius with Malkovich rocking an excellent Marilyn and a spot-on Dali, the series is actually less about Malkovich than it is an homage to the photographers responsible for the portraits themselves: Dianne Arbus, Annie Leibovitz, Art Shay, Dorothea Lange, Alberto Korda. That being said, it's supremely satisfying to see Malkovich in dress-up like this — his Jack Nicholson and Albert Einstein are top notch. Sandro Miller, Albert Watson / Alfred Hitchcock with Goose (1973), 2014 Sandro Miller, Philippe Halsman / Salvador Dalí (1954), 2014 Sandro Miller, Alberto Korda / Che Guevara (1960), 2014 Sandro Miller, Andy Warhol / Green Marilyn (1962), 2014 Sandro Miller, Andy Warhol / Self Portrait (Fright Wig) (1986), 2014 Sandro Miller, Annie Leibovitz / John Lennon and Yoko Ono (1980), 2014 Sandro Miller, Arthur Sasse / Albert Einstein Sticking Out His Tongue (1951), 2014 Sandro Miller, David Bailey / Mick Jagger "Fur Hood" (1964), 2014 Sandro Miller, Herb Ritts / Jack Nicholson, London (1988) (A), 2014 Sandro Miller, Andres Serrano / Piss Christ (1987), 2014
Longstanding Parramatta Road stalwart The Lady Hampshire has been saved. Dating back to the 1800s, the Camperdown pub has entered a new chapter in its storied history. Originally called the Old Hampshire Hotel, the Camperdown venue sat vacant for years before being given a makeover and reopening as The Lady Hampshire in 2016 under the guidance of Sydney publican Paddy Coughlan. This new-look iteration lasted about five years before closing during the pandemic without reopening. But now, in 2023, it's back in a big way, with Public Hospitality Group (Oxford House, The Strand Hotel, El Primo Sanchez) coming to the table to revive it with a new Head Chef and a massive live music program. Aesthetically, things have been kept relatively the same. You'll still find the memorable Scott Marsh mural of Australian icons like Steve Irwin and Kath and Kim on the wall as you head out to the beer garden. And said beer garden remains a no-frills al fresco area calling out for sun-soaked beers and afternoon feeds. In the kitchen, you'll find Brendan King (ex-Baba's Place, FISH SHOP) whipping up top-notch pub feeds that highlight locally sourced produce. The chicken schnitzel ($24) is sizeable and comes with your choice of mash or chips. There are plenty of burger options (all $21), from the house-special smashed cheeseburger to the simple crumbed barramundi burger topped with American cheese, iceberg lettuce, tartare sauce and pickles. And snacks are also plenftiful on King's new menu, including salt and pepper wings ($14), salted cod croquettes ($13) and kofta served with hummus and chilli ($14). Beer does the heavy lifting on the drinks menu, with affordable tinnies, the refreshing house Lady Hampshire larger and a hefty happy hour making the Hampshire a home run for after-work drinks. But hops aside, you'll find a considered wine list and plenty of house cocktails to appease non-beer drinkers. Give the Elizabeth ($19) a try, which combines Hayman's Sloe Gin, lychee liqueur, lemon and aquafaba. Then there's the big drawcard of the venue. At the end of the narrow dining room, you'll find the live music area, locked and loaded to host a genre-spanning program of acts. On the opening lineup, you'll find pop, punk, reggae, indie rock and electronica all gracing the Hampshire stage, signposting things to come as the historic venue ramps back up under its new owners.
Dust of your black-hued and gothic-looking outfits: what else do you wear to Wednesday Island, a fan festival dedicated to the creepy, kooky, mysterious and spooky Netflix series, that'll have Jenna Ortega (Death of a Unicorn), Emma Myers (A Minecraft Movie) and Tim Burton (Beetlejuice Beetlejuice) in attendance? On Saturday, August 16, 2025, one Australian spot — Cockatoo Island / Wareamah in Sydney Harbour — will embrace the macabre with the Wednesday crew themselves. Netflix has been teasing Wednesday Island for a few weeks now, including officially announcing the event when the platform dropped the full trailer for Wednesday's second season, then opening entries for VIP attendance to feel like you're at Nevermore Academy. Now, the streamer has confirmed that Ortega, Myers and Burton will be there, and also Alfred Gough and Miles Millar, who created the show in the spotlight (and wrote the screenplay to 2024's Burton-helmed, Ortega-starring Beetlejuice Beetlejuice). All five key Wednesday folks will make appearances at Wednesday Island as part of their global Doom tour to promote the series. Peach PRC and ŪLA are also on the lineup at Cockatoo Island's temporary makeover, providing the tunes. Netflix is calling the pop-up takeover a "Nevermore playground" and promising a "most grave surprise", too — and there'll be a walk-in doll's house and a cocktail spot as well. If you've always had a fondness for anything Addams Family-related, this probably sounds like a dream. Whether you first discovered pop culture's eeriest family via the 90s films, through old episodes of the 60s TV show, in various animated guises over the years — including on the big screen — or thanks to Wednesday, that fantasy can now become an IRL reality if you score admission to Wednesday Island. Applications for VIP double passes have closed, but you'll be able to enter for regular passes between Wednesday, July 23–Sunday, August 3 via the pop-up's website. To do so, you'll need to provide your details, and give an original and creative answer to this question: "in 25 words or less, confess your most delightfully deviant Outcast trait — the kind that would make Wednesday smirk with approval". You'll find out if you've scored a ticket on Monday, August 4. Only those aged over 16 can go in the running, and you'll then need to dress in attire to suit the Wednesday celebration. Boat transport to the island, plus one food and one beverage token, will be included if you're selected. As for watching the series when it returns for its second season, you'll be doing that in two batches. Part one arrives on Wednesday, August 6, then part two on Wednesday, September 3. Check out the full trailer for Wednesday season two below: Wednesday Island is taking over Cockatoo Island in Sydney on Saturday, August 16. Head to the pop-up's website to enter for general admission tickets between Wednesday, July 23–Sunday, August 3, 2025 — or just for further information. Wednesday season two arrives in two parts, with part one dropping on Wednesday, August 6, 2025 and part two on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, both via Netflix. Read our full review of Wednesday season one. Images: Bernard Walsh, Helen Sloan and Jonathan Hession/Netflix © 2025.
A new designer cupcakery has quietly opened up in the backstreets of Darlinghurst. It’s impossible to walk past Black Velvet Sydney without stopping to stare at the extravagant window display — tier upon tier of cupcakes, lavish wedding cakes, prettily bowed boxes, and pots of crisp, white orchids. BV Sydney isn’t a mere cupcake shop; it’s a 'concept store' that offers a luxe bakery and cafe experience. The voguish veneer of the store is no surprise, as the owner Orlando Sanpo has a background in interior design. The Chanel-inspired interiors have a tasteful black-and-white colour scheme, elegant wall-mounted lampshades, Parisian-style marble and intricate wrought iron tables and simple Bentwood chairs. Cupcakes are gracefully arranged on tiered stands, and a range of sophisticated products are presented in a way you might expect from an upmarket perfumery. The assortment of frou-frou includes scented soy candles, reed diffusers, soaps and bath salts, jars of chocolate hazelnut or salted caramel spreads, cocoa-dusted sundried cherries, boutique coffee beans and a cabinet neatly ornamented with fancy chocolates. Black Velvet Sydney is the result of two years dedicated to understanding the art of cupcakes. After trialling copious recipes from renowned international bakers (such as the acclaimed Magnolia in New York and Hummingbird in London), in addition to French patisserie techniques for the buttercream frosting, Orlando eventually created what he considered a flawless cupcake. His endeavour was rewarded when pastry wunderkind Adriano Zumbo endowed BV Sydney the top three prizes at the Annual Bake Off awards this year. In case you’re wondering: the Lemon Vodka, the Italiano (coffee and chocolate) and the Black Velvet (double chocolate), respectively. The cupcakes are baked daily on site and we’d have to agree with Zumbo; the cake is wonderfully moist and fluffy, while the buttercream frosting is smooth, sweet and melts in your mouth. Orlando has created more than 100 flavours to rotate, so there will always be a new flavour to discover. The readily available signature flavours include the Lemon Vodka, Salted Caramel, Black Velvet and Passionfruit Velvet ($3.50/cupcake). Specialty seasonal flavours are introduced regularly, and be prepared for curious savoury combinations such as Bacon, Egg and Cheese; Smoked Salmon Cream Cheese; and Hot Dog. For those watching their waistline, Orlando’s cupcake recipe has is 40 percent less sugar than most. There is a cupcake to suit everybody’s needs, even sugar-free, vegan and gluten-free options. Despite the impeccable interior, there’s still a playfulness in the form of the mismatched crockery. They have a range of organic teas and also make a decent flat white ($3.5), which is quaintly served in an old-fashioned teacup. BV Sydney take their coffee seriously, collaborating with Melbourne-based roaster Single Estate to craft boutique batches of The Designer Blend coffee beans. For something more decadent, the rich 70 percent dark cocoa Madagascar blend (small $3.5) is one of our favourite hot chocolates in Sydney. For sunny days, top picks include the ice-blended drinks ($5.95) such as the cafe mocha made with silky Java chocolate ($5.95) or the bestselling salted caramel. Sydney's days of cupcakes aren't over yet; Black Velvet shows the bijou dessert trend is just hitting its stride. Words and images by Eddie Hart.
As you might know, The Lansdowne and its sky-high outdoor area have a storied history. The rooftop spanned a few different iterations while the Mary's team was at the helm. Now, under the guidance of the crew behind the Oxford Art Factory, The Lansdowne has brought back sun-soaked sips two days a week — as of March 2023. Head upstairs on a Friday or Saturday and you'll find a bright-blue oasis high above City Road that's perfect for a weekend catch-up with mates. The open-air bar was given a quick-fire revamp during the summer and now boasts retro beach umbrellas to shade you from the sun's rays, as well as the full suite of food and drinks from the pub downstairs. Sweetening the deal is a new deli menu that The Lansdowne has introduced in conjunction with its new Head Chef Eugene Novikov. The accomplished hospitality veteran takes the reins of the beloved pub's kitchen after previously working at three-hatted Queenstown restaurant Amisfield and Hamilton Island's Qualia. [caption id="attachment_903435" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Dougal Gorman[/caption] Sandwiches are the heroes of this new culinary offering, with options including a wagyu meatball sambo, a chicken schnitzel sanga, a classic reuben and a cajun-spiced prawn po boy. Accompanying the sandwich selection, you'll find a Chicago-style hot dog, beef and vegan burgers, chicken wings, wedges and waffle fries. "The Lansdowne was an exciting opportunity to demonstrate how food, music and culture can all come together as the city comes back to life with activity," says Novikov. Rounding out the fresh additions to the venue is the return of its weekly music series, Graveyard Shift. The late-night sessions run free gigs in the downstairs bar every Friday from 10.30pm, serving as the ultimate kick-on spot for Sydneysiders looking to start their weekend right. Top images: Alana Dimou Appears in: The Best Pubs in Sydney
We could all use a bit of a mood boost and if there's one surefire way to up those dopamine levels, it's a weekend spent lazing by the harbour, soaking up a taste of that luxe waterfront lifestyle. A holiday from reality, featuring sunshine, water vistas and maybe even a private pool. Well, dotted all around Sydney, you'll find chic harbourside retreats and beachfront villas you can call your own for a couple of nights, offering exclusive addresses and hard-to-match views. We've done the hard work for you and rounded up Sydney's most exclusive harbourside stays you can book right now. Choose a favourite, pack those bags and get ready to live your best-ever holiday life. Stylish Apartment, Pyrmont Taste the high life with a stay at this next-level apartment, kitted out with luxury features and boasting sweeping harbour views. From $1410 a night, sleeps six. Cloudbreak, Mosman This sprawling hillside home makes for one luxurious group getaway, complete with smart styling, an infinity pool and absolute water frontage. From $385 a night, sleeps two. The Boathouse, Kurraba Point Set right on the shoreline of Kurraba Point, this roomy retreat features both a sunny waterfront lawn and a boat shed-turned-entertaining space. From $1833 a night, sleeps six. Harbour Hideaway, Clontarf A bright, breezy coastal escape for two, set right on the shores of Clontarf. Enjoy barbecues on the spacious balcony, overlooking the beach. From $499 a night, sleeps two. Camp Cove Tropical Retreat, Watsons Bay Your own tropical oasis, set just metres from Camp Cove Beach, featuring modern styling, a pool and leafy private garden. From $300 a night, sleeps three. Postcard View, Kirribilli A spectacular apartment on the water edge with direct view of the iconic Opera house and Sydney Harbour Bridge. With ideal views and luxe furnishings, this is the perfect stay for immersing yourself in the Harbour city. From $491 a night, sleeps four. Manly Beach Views, Manly Centrally located with a two minute walk from Manly Beach and Corso shopping strip, you'll have easy access to everything Manly has to offer - stunning views included. From $260 a night, sleeps two. Luxury Yacht Overnight Stay, Rose Bay Indulge yourself in a night of romance on board your own private French built Beneteau yacht moored in Rose Bay. On the waterfront with the Harbour Bridge and Opera House in the background, it will be a stay to remember. From $517 a night, sleeps two. Balmoral Beach Beauty, Mosman This stunning absolute beachfront apartment offers magnificent views of Middle Harbour and Balmoral Beach. From $330 a night, sleeps two. Magnificent Waterfront Living, Double Bay Step into your own peaceful harbourside sanctuary complete with it's own private ten metre marina berth, when you stay in this chic Double Bay apartment. From $1008 a night, sleeps five. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy. Images: courtesy of Airbnb
Sydney is set to double for 1920s Long Island and New York — again. When Baz Luhrmann (Elvis) decided to bring The Great Gatsby to the screen, he did so by filming in the Harbour City. Then, a decade after the Australian director's Oscar-winning movie hit cinemas, a The Great Gatsby-themed club popped up in town host a The Great Gatsby-inspired cabaret variety show. Cut to 2025 and that event, aka GATSBY at The Green Light, has a return to the New South Wales capital locked in, kicking off in December. Once more, Sydney Opera House is following in Luhrmann's footsteps, with GATSBY at The Green Light making its Harbour City comeback between between Saturday, December 13, 2025–Sunday, March 15, 2026. The production will take over the venue with an array of excuses to pretend that it's a century ago — and that you're on the other side of the globe. The GATSBY part of the big event's moniker refers to the entertainment, while The Green Light is the temporarily rebadged locale where this party-esque experience will occur. First, the show: taking its cues from F Scott Fitzgerald's book, which is marking its 100th anniversary in 2025, GATSBY gives the classic text the aerial, burlesque, dance and circus treatment. As performers show off their skills, live contemporary music accompanies their efforts. Odette will be crooning, Oscar Kaufmann is set to do hat stands, Miranda Menzies will play with fire and show off her hair-hang skills, Bayley Graham will tap dance, Florian Brooks will juggle and Bettie Bombshell is part of the fun, too. Spencer Craig is playing Gatsby, as is Jacob McPherson in the character's younger guise, while Mariia Borysiak is Daisy. Then, the club: The Green Light gleans inspiration from prohibition-era speakeasies. Yes, drinks are involved. Indeed, while you watch, you'll be able to say cheers to the entertainment with a beverage in hand. When it initially hit the stage at the Sydney Opera House — which hosted a sellout season — GATSBY at The Green Light hailed from director Craig Ilott, who added the event to his resume alongside Smoke & Mirrors, La Clique Royale at Edinburgh Festival's The Famous Spiegeltent, and also American Idiot, Amadeus and Velvet Rewired. With GATSBY co-producer Stuart Couzens, he was also involved in L'Hôtel, the dinner theatre experience which turned the exact same Sydney space into a French hotel with cabaret, circus and burlesque. "GATSBY at The Green Light is an experience we hope to be more than the sum of its parts — extraordinary aerial displays, awe-inspiring vocals, contemporary music and terrific choreography melded together into a party designed to reunite a great love story," says Ilott. "The allure of the world of GATSBY, combined with that of the Sydney Opera House, ensured its premiere season was a smash hit and we can't wait for this evocative experience to return with an even stronger version of the show." Added Sydney Opera House Head of Contemporary Performance Ebony Bott, "GATSBY at The Green Light draws you into a world of intrigue and refined decadence — and is a truly spectacular night out! The sell-out success of its premiere season proves audiences remain captivated by Gatsby's glamour, and we're delighted to once again extend the most coveted invitation of the season." GATSBY at The Green Light will take over Sydney Opera House's Studio, between Saturday, December 13, 2025–Sunday, March 15, 2026. Head to the venue's website for tickets and further details. Images: Daniel Boud / Prudence Upton / Anna Kucera.
We know it's nothing revelatory, but we've spent far more time staring at our own four walls these past 18 months. Our homes have become our havens (and our hells), meaning it's high time to spruce up our pads. And one surefire way to give your living room a lift or brighten up your bedroom — even if you rent — is with some brand-new homewares. But this is your sanctuary, so any old couch won't do. Instead, pick up some wares that'll spark serious joy, and save yourself from the less-than-joyful activity of assembling flat-pack furniture while you're at it. In partnership with Great Southern Bank, we're helping you skip the flat-pack struggle — and still stick to your savings goals. In fact, with Great Southern Bank, you can actually top up your savings account with The Boost, which lets you add small amounts (between $0.01 and $5) to your savings as you spend on stunning new wares. So, if you're after colourful handmade ceramics, plush sofas, linen sheets and quirky chairs, check out these eight stores with homewares that won't break the bank. CASTLERY If you'd describe your taste in homewares as 'modern minimalist' then check out Castlery. There's something decidedly homey and comfortable about its affordable furniture range, though it still has a sleek edge. This 100-percent online store also makes it dead easy to browse from the comfort of your couch. Want a new dining room set? Take your pick of retro-style sideboards, mango wood tables and sleek dining benches. Or, maybe it's time to finally get rid of your nan's hand-me-down sofa and replace it with a luxe sectional. Whatever you're looking for, Castlery probably has it — and at a competitive price — so jump online stat. Be sure to sign up to its mailing list for a cheeky $50 off your first order, too. BED THREADS The clue is in the name here, so if you're looking to level up your bedding, look no further. Bed Threads is your go-to for linens and will set you up with the snoozing ensemble of your dreams. You can mix and match its 100-percent flax linen sheets, with more than 20 colours to pick from. Plus, you can currently score 20 percent off its 'build your own bundle' sets. The great news, though, is that Bed Threads services other rooms, offering a great selection of bath and table accessories to bring some pep into every space, including waffle towels, vibrantly hued table linens and quirky serveware. It's got a concise-but-killer collection of cookbooks, too. [caption id="attachment_798511" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cassandra Hannagan[/caption] OPUS DESIGN Fun and functional, Opus Design's homewares range from subtle and understated to ostentatious and fun. Whether you're after a new set of knives or big-ticket items like coffee tables and chairs, everything here looks and feels high-end — but without the hefty price tag. A great shout if you're looking to pick up a few pieces to breathe new life into your living room, it also offers free delivery across Australia on orders over $100. Result. THIRD DRAWER DOWN Melbourne-based shop Third Drawer Down is a top homewares contender (which thankfully has a comprehensive online store, too). Stocking bold (and sometimes tongue-in-cheek) designs from an impressive list of local and international artists, Third Drawer Down celebrates individualism and playfulness with its carefully curated selection of wares. Everything here is as much a work of art as it is a functional piece of furniture, so expect a heap of bright colours, out-there drawings, crude knick-knacks and pop-culture influences. This is a great store if you're after a fun statement piece (or a few) without wanting to fork out a fortune. GOODSPACE Goodspace is a humble Instagram page dedicated to redeveloping and repurposing preloved furniture. Not only will you score something unique for your pad, but you'll also be doing the earth a solid with these sustainable pieces. The social media store sells all manner of small and large storage units, tables, chairs, sofas and lamps, to name but a few. The price on these beauties varies greatly, so be sure to check its swag regularly. It also recently launched its own line of bright-hued checkerboard rugs that'll add a splash of colour and help spiff up any room. MUD Founded in 1994, Mud has been going strong for 27 years with its minimalist ceramic designs. Perhaps best known for its handmade porcelain range brought to life by designer Shelley Simpson, Mud is all about clean, colourful pieces that are as much about the artistic process as they are functionality. So, if you're in the market for a statement salad bowl, a new mug or some unique hanging lights, check out its online store. SUNDAY SOCIETY This Brisbane-based store delivers across Australia, which is the first bit of great news you need to hear. The second? Sunday Society embraces individualism and creativity while remaining approachable in aesthetic and, perhaps more importantly, price. It has a diverse range of lounge and bedroom furniture as well as a timeless selection of outdoor wares. Style and sophistication go hand in hand every step of the way here, so no matter what you're looking for, you're bound to find something that suits your taste. LOUNGE LOVERS Whether it's the comfortable, stylish sofas or rustic, asymmetrical tables stocked at Lounge Lovers, you may find yourself being surprised at the price tag on these slick pieces. Lounge Lovers keeps things simple by offering concise variations on a number of easily workable themes. Classic and contemporary designs are brought to life via chic colour palettes that range from neutral to jewel tones, allowing you to add your personal flair to any of these accessible pieces. Great Southern Bank is empowering Aussies to get clever with their banking. Whether you want to stick to your savings goals with The Boost or hide your house deposit fund from yourself with The Vault, Great Southern Bank helps you get there. For more information on savings tools and home loan options, head to the Great Southern Bank website. Top image: Opus, Cassandra Hannagan
Hotel Ravesis, the legendary Bondi establishment where locals and tourists alike have had many a memorable night out, enters a new chapter with the opening of Spanish restaurant Alzado on the first floor. With Bondi Beach as a backdrop and lively energy from its customers seeking good times, Ravesis is a prime location for Alzado's vibrant, easy-going holiday vibes. The new Spanish coastal diner arrives by way of collaboration between Ravesis owner Aya Larkin, executive consultant chef Pablo Tordesillas, and head chef MJ Olguera. Larkin says, "There's always been a rhythm between the beach, the Bondi village, and its end-of-day sunset dining culture. We wanted Alzado to capture that — creating a space where people can wander up straight from the sand and find themselves staying all afternoon. It's elevated, yes, but not formal — it's about a shared table full of great food and ice-cold drinks, and those moments where lunch effortlessly rolls into the evening. We're excited about this new chapter for Hotel Ravesis and to give this magnificent dining space its time in the sun once again." Spanish-born Todesillas (ex Merivale executive chef) and Olguera's menu is designed for long, boozy lunches, apertivo afternoons, and bustling dinners that stretch long into the evening. There are plenty of easy-eating snacky options that pair perfectly with a glass of featured dry sherry or vermouth on ice. Spain's deceptively simple favourite pan con tomate is served with a tin of anchovies or Jamón Ibérico. There's whitebait with aioli, patatas bravas with salsa brava, and grilled sardines with saffron. The sun-soaked wrap-around balcony is primed for another round of oyster martinis — made with oyster shell-infused vodka, and served with a Sydney Rock oyster — with a selection of small plates such as preserved tuna with the pickled goodness of onions, chilis and olives, and potato crisps piled high and layered with Jamón Ibérico and pickled peppers. For mains, opt for seafood rice, lamb belly ribs, fresh grilled market fish, or a hefty one-kilogram ribeye. Todesillas says, "Alzado is about distilling the essence of coastal regional Spain into a Bondi setting. When you eat in Spain, the best meals are often the simplest — a piece of fish grilled on the plancha, a plate of peppers with nothing more than olive oil and sea salt, a glass of something cold alongside. That approach — letting produce speak, cooking with heart, and keeping flavours true — is what we've brought to Alzado. It's food designed to be shared, to linger over, and to always feel generous." Images: Parker Blain.
You've finished work. It's not quite time for dinner but a bite of something salty and a sip of something carbonated (and alcoholic) would go down a treat. Luckily, the Italians have a solution for that — the aperitivo hour. And it has made its way to Sydney. Restaurants and bars around the city are offering up Italian-style spritzes and cocktails, with bite-sized snacks to keep you going until dinner (and to reward you for completing another hard day of work). The kicker? They're offering the food and drink at heavily discounted prices — think $10 negronis, $5 wines and complimentary snacks. An Italian happy hour, if you will. And here we've rounded up our favourites, so you can kick back with an Aperol spritz any night of the week.
Drinking sessions with your mates are a cornerstone of the weekend. But, for those fur baby parents out there, there's nothing worse than getting stuck in and then realising you have to rush out to take care of your pup. For you, the best session is one when your best two-legged and four-legged mates are all there. We've teamed up with American Express to show Sydney dog owners that you don't need to choose between seeing your friends or hanging out with your pup. These American Express-accepting spots offer some of the best food and bevs in the city, all while catering to your doggo with special menus, play areas and outdoor seating. Looking for a spot where your dog is welcomed as much as your, er, human friends? These venues are here for you. Got yourself in another dining situation and need some guidance? Whatever it is, we know a place. Visit The Shortlist and we'll sort you out.
Airports are a necessary part of the international travel experience. They're hardly most people's favourite place or anyone's ultimate destination, but you can't fly overseas without visiting them. Next time you're jetting abroad, however, you might want to add a visit to Singapore's Changi Airport to your trip. Nothing breaks up a long-haul journey like a 40-metre tall indoor waterfall, after all. After hosting a short-term immersive Harry Potter-themed world over the Christmas period, the Asian transit point has now launched a new permanent addition — the 137,000-square-metre Jewel Changi complex, under a glass-and-steel dome, that's jam-packed with shops, dining options, greenery, activities and one massive water feature. Designed by Safdie Architects, it takes over ten storeys, including five above the ground and five below, as part of the airport's terminal one expansion project. If it's the cascading attraction that you're most interested in, it's called the Rain Vortex. As the name suggests, it uses water collected from above. Running from 8am–12.30am, it's also the world's tallest indoor waterfall, and also provides the backdrop for a light show. Surrounding the Rain Vortex is the Shiseido Forest Valley, which is home to over 2000 trees and palms, as well as more than 100,000 shrubs, all across five storeys. To allow visitors to really soak in the natural splendour, the manicured garden features a number of walking trails that take around half an hour each to complete — and they're open 24/7. Although the waterfall and garden have been welcoming travellers since Wednesday, April 17 — as has Jewel Changi in general, its new onsite IMAX theatre and YOTELAIR Hotel, plus Nike, Marks & Spencer, Muji, Zara and Uniqlo stores as part of 280 retailers and eateries overall — there's also more to come. From June 10, the site will mark the opening of its fifth-level Canopy Park, which'll bring with it a heap more adventurous activities. Specifically, visitors will be able to walk along a bridge suspended 23 metres above the ground, and even see through the glass floor to the garden below. You'll also be able to bounce along a 250-metre span of sky nets, wander through both a hedge maze and a mirror maze, and slip down the slide-filled sculptural playground. Forget just killing time on a layover, searching for a phone charger or suffering in uncomfortable chairs while you're waiting for your flight home. Here, you might have to remind yourself that you're actually at an airport. For further details, visit the Jewel Changi Airport website.
This year's best food-lover gifts are all about small-batch craftsmanship and flavour with personality. Whether you're shopping for a dinner party host, a coffee obsessive or that friend who has opinions about olive oil, we've rounded up thoughtful presents that celebrate local makers and independent producers. Think edible luxuries, clever kitchen tools and design-led homewares that make every meal feel special — plus a few foodie-friendly experiences for good measure. Also have an avid arts lover in your life? Check out our guide to the best gifts for culture seekers. The Fish Weight, Mr Niland Equally nailing the brief of form and function, this stainless steel fish weight from celebrated chef Josh Niland helps you achieve a restaurant-quality cook on anything your heart desires to sear — while doubling as a sleek bench-side sculpture. Shop now. Apéritif Gift Set, Maison Balzac Handblown in the brand's signature sculptural style, this colourful glassware set will elevate any afternoon spritz session. A dreamy choice for design-minded entertainers. Shop now. Butter Blue Seersucker Apron, Mosey Me A cheerful, design-forward kitchen essential from Melbourne's Mosey Me. The seersucker fabric gives it a retro edge — perfect for the friend who loves to cook and coordinate. Shop now. Food For Everyone Art Prints, Food For Everyone These limited-edition prints turn iconic recipes into gallery-worthy art, with a portion of proceeds going to food security initiatives. It's the gift that looks good and does good. Shop now. Messina Make-at-Home Gingerbread Cookie Pie, Two Good Co x Gelato Messina Two Good Co has teamed up with Messina to create a rich, gooey cookie pie you can bake at home. Sweet, festive and socially conscious — every purchase helps support women in need. Shop now. The Madrusan Cocktail Companion, Michael and Zara Madrusan This beautifully bound cocktail bible from Heartbreaker's Michael and Zara Madrusan dives into the history and craft of modern classics. Ideal for the person who always insists on stirring, not shaking. Shop now. Lowe Rehoned Kitchen Knife 40, The Hub General Store A limited-edition knife handcrafted by Melbourne maker Andrew Lowe using a repurposed Japanese blade and a Curly Blackwood handle. Exclusive to The Hub General Store, it's a precision tool with heirloom-level craftsmanship. Shop now. Extra Virgin Olive Oil with Basil, Yiayia and Friends Greek heritage meets playful packaging in this small-batch olive oil infused with basil. Perfect for drizzling, gifting or just admiring on the benchtop. Shop now. Lemon Squeezer Fish, Mesa Collections Whimsical yet functional, this fish-shaped lemon squeezer adds charm to cocktail hours and seafood dinners alike. Because even citrus deserves good design. Shop now. Bubblegum Chopping Board, CHOPIT Boards Made from 100 percent recycled plastic, this bubblegum pink board is naturally odourless and non-absorbent, and turns everyday chopping into a moment of joy. Shop now. Full Set of Hot Sauces, Thousand Apologies A complete lineup of this female-owned Australian hot sauce brand's creations — from mild to blow-your-head-off. For the mate who measures love in Scovilles. Shop now. Balthazar Oyster Dish, Aretae Gifting Lovingly handcrafted, these sculptural dishes take cues from oyster shells — ideal for serving, styling, or simply admiring. A luxe, coastal-inspired addition to any table. Shop now. Moccamaster Select, Alternative Brewing Precision-engineered and endlessly reliable, the Moccamaster is a design icon in the coffee world. For serious caffeine lovers who like their brew as beautiful as it is consistent. Shop now. Meat Masterclass, Victor Churchill Give the gift of experience with a hands-on masterclass at Sydney's legendary Victor Churchill. Learn from expert butchers and chefs how to prepare and cook premium cuts to perfection. Shop now. Panettone Negroni, Never Never Distilling Co. This festive twist on a classic negroni blends Never Never's Triple Juniper Gin with bitter citrus aperitif, sweet vermouth and the warming flavours of aged muscat, orange liqueur and vanilla bean. It's rich, bright and unmistakably Christmas. Shop now. Pick-Your-Own-Label Wine, Good Reason Co If you're looking for a way to make gifting personal this Christmas, head to Good Reason Co for a bespoke wine bottle label. Depending on the gift-receiver, say anything from "Happiness looks good on you" to "Good riddance". Shop now. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
Whether you're a wine novice or an armchair expert, it's always a joy to expand your beverage-based horizons. Newtown's tiny wine bar and bottle shop Famelia is here to help — offering guests plenty of ways to sample wines from some of Australia's most interesting and inventive producers. The brainchild of Amelia Birch, Famelia is located in an Enmore Road building (the former home of Cittavino) directly across the road from another beloved purveyor of booze, P&V Liquor + Wine Merchants. The list here is kept short and simple, with a rotating list of 12 wines by the glass that changes weekly. Or, if you're looking to share a bottle, you can also browse the full selection from the bottle shop and enjoy it at retail price (plus corkage). Birch and the team are effortlessly approachable, so if you find yourself lost for what to drink, just ask for a recommendation — that's what they're there for. If you're looking beyond wine, Famelia's cocktail list is far from thrown together, with yuzushu and pét-nat spritzes plus mandarin margaritas. And if you're feeling snacky, there are plenty of dips, cheeses and deli meats to taste your way through, weekly desserts and Birch's secret family egg dip. Open Wednesday–Sunday, the bar can host 25 wine lovers inside and an additional eight to ten out on Enmore Road. You can also try before you buy at the bottle shop, with a range of wines open to taste if you're on the hunt for that perfect thing to bring to your dinner party or to pair with tonight's spag bol. Images: Philippa Enid.
