Frank Mac's co-owners Ciara Doran and Eoin Daniels are no strangers to The Rocks, having opened whisky bar The Doss House on the same street back in March 2018. Now, they've shifted their focus to another beloved spirit — gin. Enter from George Street and make your way through the two-story heritage building (plus a hidden courtyard), before pulling up a seat at the five-metre-long bar. The stools provide the perfect vantage point to take in a show of cocktail mixology or have a gander at the shelves brimming with bottles. Sample more than 100 juniper blends sourced from all corners of the globe as you sip your way through a carefully curated cocktail menu that features an impressive variety of house-made ingredients. "The silver lining from the last three months of lockdown is that we've been able to use the time to really refine our cocktails," said Frank Mac's Beverage Manager Daniel Strahand (The Doss House, Mary's, Spice Temple). "I've spent days perfecting syrups, cordials and bitters." Highlights of the extensive drink menu includes the Shillings ($20), perfect for fans of an apple and lychee martini. The concoction is a mixture of JJ Whitley gin, salted caramel, and surprise surprise, apple and lychee. The Mac Martini ($25) is another stand-out — the vesper-style martini is made with dry gin and an infusion of lemon myrtle, kaffir lime and bay leaves. It's their signature cocktail for a reason. Since it's never a good idea to drink on an empty stomach, the venue also offers a food menu that's short but sweet. It features various plates that are ideal for sharing, like oozy burrata with crusty sourdough ($24) and cheese boards paired with chunks of organic dark chocolate and seasonal market fruit ($40). For something more substantial, guests can order a panini packed to the brim with truffle-infused sopressa ($15) or a roasted vegetable pie ($15) made by Infinity Bakery especially for the venue. The dish is paired with a traditional Irish curry sauce, a nod to Ciara's great uncle Frank Mac who was always to be found at the centre of his local village bar. With its endless gin list, crafted cocktails and heritage charm, you'd be hard-pressed to find a better place for a cheeky tipple than Frank Mac's. [caption id="attachment_834046" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: Steven Woodburn.[/caption] Images: Steven Woodburn
Since the late 1990s, Jackies Cafe has been serving Paddington's locals from its sun-drenched courtyard amid the area's designer shopping hub. Led by head chef Josh Booker, the cafe dishes up simple breakfasts and lunches made with locally sourced ingredients — regular trips to the market or the farms themselves are on Booker's schedule to make sure he is cooking with the freshest produce. The breakfast menu is mostly Australian brunch classics, with some Japanese twists — try vanilla ricotta pancakes ($19.50), lobster scrambled eggs with lime and coriander dressing ($22) or the raw seasonal green bowl with poached egg, avocado, enoki mushrooms and miso dressing ($21.60). At lunch, longstanding chefs Tatsuo Ito and Masayuki Takegawa man the sushi bar, providing fresh Japanese delicacies. A number of other dishes are available, including a tuna poke bowl ($26), Balmain bug linguine ($28) and a classic beef burger ($23.50). Drinks include caffeine from the Australian-made Mothersky Coffee, Simon Says juices and smoothies, and a small 'summers in the courtyard'-friendly selection of alcoholic tipples (think Aperol spritz, mojitos, King Valley prosecco and French rosé). And, just this month, the Paddington institution has launched dinner three nights a week, welcoming patrons hungry from a day of shopping for a late-afternoon bite and a glass of wine, or a full al fresco dining experience. Alongside its usual breakfast hours, Jackies will open from 5.30–11pm, Thursday to Saturday with a full dinner menu of sushi, sashimi, sharing plates and main meals. Tuck into steamed shiitake mushroom and eggplant gyoza ($16.50), salmon caviar boats ($22.60), pork and prawn ramen ($32) and braised beef rib with wasabi mash ($48). Save room for dessert, because the dark chocolate mousse with miso caramel and espresso foam ($12) and the matcha ice cream with seasonal berries and black sesame praline ($12) look like just the right amount of decadence to cap off a meal of this calibre. Images: Kitti Gould.
An Aussie riff on the izakayas of Japan and bars of Korea, Surry Hills' Tokki is a fun, relaxed spot primed for dinner, drinks and everything in between. As you'd expect, Japanese and Korean flavours star throughout the food and drink menus. A raw bar is plating options like salmon sashimi and a kingfish ceviche teamed with white soy-infused vinaigrette, while the small plates might see you tucking into the likes of Korean-style pork or miso butter-glazed roasted cauliflower. There are fluffy bao and a trio of Korean fried chicken (KFC) options, including one lathered in spicy Korean chilli paste. Or, you can go large with plates like the wagyu short rib with wild berry umeshu and miso butter prawns. A couple of feed me menus will save you the decisions. As Tokki is run by David Bae of Market City's Kogi Korean BBQ, you'd assume the Surry Hills restaurant would have some barbecued meets on the menu. And it does. We suggest you order the Tokki BBQ tray — a hefty mix of beef rib, pork belly, gochujang chicken and baby pork ribs. The matching drinks lineup spans a strong selection of Japanese whisky and sake, Korean soju and a concise wine list that focuses on minimal-intervention Aussie drops. You'll also find a mix of imported brews and local craft beers, and you can have a bit of fun with cocktails like the Merry Soju — a fresh blend of yuzu, soju, Suze, St. Germain and lavender — and a smoky bourbon number dubber Oboolau. Located on the corner of Foveaux and Belmore streets in Surry Hills — you'll spot the four bright light boxes through the large front windows — Tokki's isn't the only izakaya in the area. It's a two-minute walk from the long-standing Tokyo Bird and three minutes from the raucous Goros, so we suggest you hit them all up and make a bar crawl out of it.
CBD bike shop Clarence Street Cyclery has been a go-to bike shop for 45 years. The family-operated store has more than 150 pedal bikes on display in its Victorian-era shop, and you're guaranteed to receive good advice from its team whether you need a new lock, some lights or a whole new set of wheels. [caption id="attachment_777009" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cassandra Hannagan[/caption] It stocks Trek Bicycles, as well as Electra cruisers, and if you're unsure which model will suit you best, the staff here will help you make the best decision. It also has a broad range of lifestyle and mountain bike helmets to booties and arm warmers for the more serious cyclist. Images: Cassandra Hannagan
Located in Sydney's food capital of Haymarket, Porkfat stands out as an elegant alternative to Sydney's often hectic and dressed-down Thai dining scene. The food here is served in delicately hand-painted ceramics from Wiang Galon, an ancient city famous for its religious history and artistic legacy. The flavours come from the owner's hometown of Saraburi in central Thailand, and the dishes are traditional but at the same time unique, with some surprising offerings hidden amongst the classics. The papaya salad with salted duck egg, dried prawn, fish sauce and lime is the perfect light dish to kick off your dining experience, while the baked Queensland tiger prawn with vermicelli, pork fat, oyster sauce, Chinese wine, ginger and celery is a unique mix of flavours you won't find elsewhere. There's the option to add extra prawns to this and we highly recommend you do. The Porkfat specials include a deepfried whole barramundi with three flavour sauce, crispy garlic, deep fried makrut leaves and Thai basil — it is the perfect dish to share. The grilled pork chop is a signature dish and comes with smoked chilli nam jim, roasted rice, fish sauce and tamarind. Cap off your experience with its homemade coconut ice cream served with roasted peanuts and candied pumpkin. There is also a set menu for groups of six or more which includes all the favourites as well as Porkfat's popular lamb with smoked chilli, sawtooth, mint and iceberg lettuce. Images: Leigh Griffiths
When Donato Salomone opened Salumerie in Potts Point in 2024, his mission was straightforward: bring the energy and flavours of the delis in his native Naples to Sydney. Two years on — and with additional outposts in the CBD and Manly under his belt — Salomone has unveiled his fourth Salumerie in Bondi, bringing his pillowy house-made focaccias and sliced-to-order deli meats to Hall Street lifestyle precinct The Hub. Rather than a carbon copy of its siblings, Salumerie Bondi leans into crowd favourites while also offering a few exclusives. Expect signatures like mortadella with buffalo ricotta and pistachio pesto; seasonal combinations such as peach with stracciatella and hot honey; and an unapologetically saucy, Bondi-only vodka lasagne sandwich. As always, you can build your own focaccia from the deli selection, piled high with antipasti, fresh salumi and cheeses. There's also house-made lasagne and tiramisu on rotation — you can also try the tiramisu with the $2 espresso al banco, another Bondi exclusive served with a generous spoonful of the dessert. While daytime is devoted to the focaccias and deli staples, things take a turn from 4pm. Wednesdays bring lasagne and wine nights, while Thursdays to Sundays see the laneway shift to aperitivo mode, with DJs, antipasti and spritzes setting the tone.
Since opening its original store in Granville in 1998, El Jannah has earned cult status for its Lebanese-style charcoal chicken and finger lickin'-good garlic sauce. Now, the legendary chicken joint has an impressive seven outlets under its belt — and counting. El Jannah has won plenty of fans for its charcoal chicken — you can order a whole bird, a half or a quarter, all of which come with pickles and bread. Oh, and that garlic sauce — so irresistible that it's almost single-handedly responsible for El Jannah's rise to Sydney stardom. Elsewhere on the menu, you'll find Middle Eastern skewers and shawarma plates, plus chicken burgers and rolls. Sides include bowls of hummus, baba ghanoush, tabouli and fattoush. You'll find EL Jannah Granville in our list of the best fried chicken in Sydney. Check out the full list here. Appears in: The Best Fried Chicken in Sydney for 2023
When it comes to first dates (or any social gatherings, for that matter) it's hard to beat Sydney's inner west. There's an array of restaurants that serve multicultural cuisine, plenty of dog-friendly courtyards and quintessential Aussie pubs to choose from, plus loads of lively venues to hit up as the sun sets and the night picks up the pace. Whether you're a music lover, a cocktail connoisseur or simply after an intimate spot for a late-night pash, we've teamed up with Inner West Council to compile the best of the west — especially when you're trying to impress. Wow your date with your local bar knowledge and keep the sparks flying well into the evening.
Taking over a beloved corner of Llewellyn Street, White Rabbit has brought a commitment to high-quality artisan goods to the former home of West Juliett. The longstanding Marrickville favourite closed down without warning in mid-2022 — but when one door closes, another opens. This is the fourth outpost for White Rabbit, with its Marrickville iteration joining spots in Drummoyne, Double Bay and Kiaora Lane. The group of cafes looks to bring together top-quality local suppliers, helping to expand their reach. That's exactly what you'll find at the Marrickville venue, with Sonoma Bakery's bread and baked goods, Goose Bakery's pastries, Pepe Saya butter and The Little Marionette coffee all featured on the menu. Outside of Sonoma's loaves, plus Goose's dark chocolate and sea salt cookies, there's a menu of hefty cafe classics. Highlights from the all-day breakfast menu include XO chilli scrambled eggs with mushrooms, fried shallots and sourdough; sweet corn and zucchini fritters topped with avocado salsa, halloumi, chickpea hummus and chilli oil; and a classic bangers and beans big brekkie, featuring braised cannellini beans, 'nduja, pork and fennel sausages, pork belly, potato, fried eggs and toast. Later in the day, you can turn your attention to the lunch menu, which is headlined by a fresh tuna ceviche bowl packed with zucchini and carrot noodles, brown rice, avocado, edamame, wakame, oxheart tomato, white miso and ginger; and a loaded parmesan and herb-crumbed chicken sandwich on toasted Sonoma sourdough. The White Rabbit team has made the most of the building, keeping the bright white aesthetic of West Juliett while shaping the space into a takeaway bakery and 100-seat cafe with both indoor and al fresco dining.
Over the past month, Arnott's has been unveiling a new recipe for one of its famed bikkies every week. As part of the snack expert's Big Recipe Release, it has unveiled its Monte Carlo, four-ingredient Scotch Finger and Iced VoVo recipes, as well as a twist on its Tim Tam: a salted almond Tim Tam brownie. This week, it's thrown us another curveball. The recipe isn't for one of its sweet snacks; instead, like the Tim Tam brownie, it uses one of its sweet snacks. The key ingredient this time is Nice biscuits, which you'll use as a sugar-dusted base for a silky but classic cheesecake. Obviously, the new recipe still ticks another very important box: giving everyone currently working from home — or just spending more time indoors than usual — something different to bake. Australia's oldest baker will continue to release a new recipe for one of its famous biscuits every week until social distancing regulations are lifted. Next up, will it be the Mint Slice? Pizza Shapes? We'll have to wait and see. In the meantime, though, here's the classic Nice cheesecake recipe: https://www.instagram.com/p/CAeYW1GgwSs/ CLASSIC NICE CHEESECAKE 1 250 gram packet of Arnott's Nice biscuits 125 grams melted butter 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 2 250 gram packets of cream cheese, at room temperature 3 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 cup caster sugar Method BASE: Preheat the oven to 150°C. Grease a 20 centimetre (base measurement) springform tin. Place Arnott's Nice biscuits and cinnamon in the bowl of a food processor, then process until biscuits are finely crushed. Add melted butter, then process until combined. Transfer mixture to the prepared tin — and, using the back of a spoon, press over the base and up the sides of the tin until it is spread evenly. Refrigerate for 30 minutes, or until needed, to ensure a firm crust. FILLING: Combine cream cheese, sugar and vanilla extract in a medium bowl, then beat until well mixed. Add eggs one by one, beating well after each addition. Pour mixture over the biscuit base. Bake for 50 minutes, or until set. Turn the oven off, but leave the cheesecake in the oven with door ajar until it has completely cooled — as this will help prevent the cheesecake from cracking. TIPS: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to your cream cheese mixture for extra flavour. Replace the cinnamon with mixed spice for a twist. Serve with your favourite berries and double cream. If you don't have a food processor, you can crush the biscuits it the old-fashioned way — by placing them in a zip lock bag and crushing with a rolling pin. Top image: Arnott's
Surrounded by towering mountain vistas, Ayrburn is the brand-new must-visit destination in New Zealand's Arrowtown, just 20 minutes from Queenstown. The ambitious precinct already features six venues plus its own vineyard — and it's expanding. Still to come is a flagship fine-diner, a butcher, a bakehouse, luxury housing and a hotel right by a waterfall. The mind behind the project, Chris Meehan of Winton Property Group, hopes the destination can become the top most visited attraction in Queenstown, with the precinct designed to be a year-round hub for holidays. Snow-capped mountains in the winter, mild summers that never tip past 30 degrees, and Arrowtown's famous changing of the leaves in autumn provide the backdrop for a genuinely impressive food and drink program. As you wander through the precinct, the smell of a fire and the sound of a trickling creek are never too far away. This idyllic atmosphere persists across the six distinct venues that are already open at Ayrburn, each of which serves its own purpose. The Menure Room (named after its previous occupation) serves as a hybrid wine bar, pub and cellar door. The menu here provides pieces of advice like "drink some wine, talk some sh*t", with Central Otago vino at the centre of its offerings — particularly Ayrburn's own already award-winning range. You can taste your way through these outstanding drops with the wine flight of your choice, pairing the samples with moreish share plates of gildas, chicken liver parfait on brioche, and caramelised cauliflower croquettes. The Woolshed has more of a focus on homely cooking and sizeable cuts of meat, functioning as a sleek yet approachable bistro for long lunches and celebratory dinners. Must-try menu highlights here include the Southland venison tataki paired with nashi pair, spring onion, togarashi and coriander; and the grilled octopus with a chilli sesame dressing. There's three more venues comprising The Burr Bar, a breezy spot up on the hill serving inventive takes on margaritas and gin sours; The Dairy, where you'll find scoops of black forest or salted caramel ice cream; and The Dell, an outdoor meeting area built to facilitate events and live entertainment. The latest space to open at Ayrburn is the Barrel Room — a moody private bar and diner lined with wine barrels and sporting a lavish fitout complete with a baby grand piano. Shut out from the outside world with low lighting and an expansive dining room, this hidden adult playground will have you whiling away the hours over great food and wine, losing track as time passes by. Yet to arrive is the flagship venue Billy's which will open towards the end of 2024. Set in a huge homestead-style building, the 170-capacity pièce de résistance of the Ayrburn dining precinct has been billed as an experiential dining experience with each room consisting of its own unique theme. Open 12 months of the year, Ayrburn is another reason to spend a ski season hitting the slopes in Queenstown, but it's also a reminder that New Zealand's show-stoppingly stunning South Island should be at the top of your travel hit list all year round, especially for any foodies and all of the wine aficionados out there. You'll find Ayrburn at 1 Ayr Avenue, Arrowtown. Head to the precinct's website for more information on each of its venues.
Good news, CBD goers: Frango is dishing up its iconic Portuguese fare from its Kent Street spot. If you're in the mood for charcoal-grilled chicken, this little laneway will have you sorted. This CBD spot was previously home to a popular Nandos joint but has since scored a vibrant, green, red, and yellow-hued revamp in true Frango fashion. Frangos has been serving up delicious eats since 1989 across the city. This CBD spot marks the family-owned business's 12th location and the first-ever inner-city location. The cult-favourite institution prides itself on offering a Portuguese-inspired menu that goes beyond the familiar classics. At this inner-city outpost, you'll find all of the affordable Frango favourites you know and love, from its renowned chicken burgers paired with crispy chips and juicy grilled chicken coated in a Portuguese spice blend to Frangos' iconic chilli sauce that's earned an 'unspoken staple' status. Plus, there are even handmade creamy Portuguese tarts and a decadent chocolate mousse to satiate those post-feed sweet cravings. And to top things off, you're guaranteed to enjoy that beloved signature taste in every flavour-packed bite, as the brand's director, Luis Fernandes, keeps a close eye on its crowd-pleasing eats. Whether you're after some succulent chook before or after knocking back some cocktails, looking to level up your sad desk lunch or a convenient feed for the family, you can rely on this eatery's prime location to sort you out. If you're in the mood for some drinks post-chicken-feed, Frangos Kent Street is just across from stellar cocktail bars, including PS40, Vinabar, Papa Gede's and Since I Left You.
With the sale of Marrickville's iconic Vic On The Park to hotel powerhouse Merivale, the ardent hipsters of Enmore Road are on the lookout for a traditional, independent boozer to call their local. The "Wazza" is the inner west pub of yesteryear — a simple, reasonably priced menu, sport on the telly and cheap beer alongside a couple of local craft taps. This unpretentious pub might look to be another old man's watering hole, yet the unassuming decor of the main bar gives way to a secluded, shady and spacious outdoor garden courtyard full of hipsters, tradies and families alike. The bamboo-panelled walls of the garden, coupled with multiple umbrellas all centred around the shade thrown from the large tree in the middle of the garden make for a great place to hide from the traffic outside and forget how close you are to the city. A great neighbourhood pub with one of the best kept secret gardens in the area.
The Whitsundays are a tropical paradise. Travellers generally head to these islands to spend days roaming along the white sandy beaches, snorkelling around the Great Barrier Reef and escaping their hectic lives...until screaming kids ruin the peace. That's why so many people book themselves into adults-only resorts — especially for parents who just need a well-deserved break — when seeking the ultimate Whitsundays holiday. And you don't even need an entire hotel or resort to yourself — many places have large sections dedicated to adults, leaving the kids to hide away on the other side of the property. Here are our favourites in The Whitsundays. QUALIA It doesn't get much more luxurious than Qualia — and the world certainly knows it, with the five-star resort scooping up dozens of tourism awards since it opened in 2008. Qualia is based on Hamilton Island's northernmost tip and boasts world-class dining, a spa and 60 pavilions filled with top-notch amenities — including some with their very own plunge pool and outdoor shower. The resort offers a number of unforgettable experiences, like private charters around The Whitsundays, helicopter flights over the Great Barrier Reef and guided food and wine tastings at the Long Pavilion fine diner. Every aspect of Qualia, from its design to its services, is shaped to encourage relaxation. As such, the entire resort is not only 18-plus but is also only accessible to guests. We've teamed up with Qualia to offer readers an exclusive package via Concrete Playground Trips. Enjoy four nights in an ocean-view pavilion, daily breakfast, a gourmet dinner, VIP transfers and chauffeur service around Hamilton Island, a full-day helicopter tour and more. Book now from $8795 for two. BEACH CLUB HAMILTON ISLAND This luxury beachfront hotel is entirely adults-only. That means no children in the hallways, infinity pool or restaurant, so you can holiday peacefully. But, the kid-free aspect of Beach Club Hamilton Island isn't the only drawcard of this accommodation. Each of the 57 modern rooms also faces Catseye Beach and has its own private balcony. There's plenty to see and do on Hamilton Island, but if you want to stay in your adults-only oasis, then feel free to order from the club's restaurant and eat and drink by the pool all day long. You also have access to catamarans, paddleboards, windsurfing gear and tennis courts — included in the price of your room. INTERCONTINENTAL HAYMAN ISLAND RESORT This is not strictly adults-only accommodation, but InterContinental's Hayman Island Resort boasts a huge new section of the island, entirely free of children. To access this part of the resort, you'll have to book into one of the impressive beachfront pavilions (which overlook a beach where kids aren't allowed). Each standalone room has a generous living area, a plush king bed and a private deck that leads right to the beach — take a few steps across the lawn, and you're right there. When you're looking to go further afield and see the rest of what The Whitsundays offer — think flights over the Great Barrier Reef, island wildlife tours, snorkelling, diving and fishing trips — the world-class team here will organise it all for you. ELYSIAN RETREAT Looking for somewhere to really get away from it all? Make tracks to Long Island's Elysian Retreat. Not only is this resort full of luxe amenities and experiences, but it also puts sustainability at its core as the Whitsunday's first 100-percent solar-powered resort — all the while being exclusively adults only. Seclusion is guaranteed at this expansive resort. It's located in its private cove and only hosts a maximum of 20 guests. That's a rarity in The Whitsundays, where enormous accommodation complexes tend to dominate the luxury scene. But there's still a full range of experiences here — you can join a yoga class, snorkelling and kayaking tour or indulge in a spa treatment. Elysian also works with several local touring companies, organising special trips to nearby islands and the Great Barrier Reef. The fact that the only way to get to this island is via a short helicopter ride from Hamilton Island is undoubtedly one more thing to add to the list of reasons to visit. WATERFRONT WHITSUNDAYS RETREAT It's not just the islands of The Whitsundays that are home to private, adults-only digs — the mainland also has some great options. Our pick: Waterfront Whitsundays Retreat. This Airlie Beach spot only has five rooms available, making for a far more low-key stay. There's no need to get up early to shotgun a poolside lounge chair, nor do you need to worry about crowds of people getting to the retreat's barbecue area and private garden before you do. Here, you can relax and take advantage of the on-site offerings at your own pace, all while you soak up the impressive views of the Coral Sea. Feeling inspired to book a getaway unlike anything else out there? Only through Concrete Playground Trips, our new travel booking platform, can you now purchase holidays specially curated by our writers and editors. We've teamed up with all the best providers of flights, stays and experiences to bring you a series of unforgettable trips at destinations all over the world. Top images: Elysian Retreat
For six years, Porteño owners Ben Milgate and Elvis Abrahanowicz had been grilling up a storm in their legendary home on Cleveland Street, Surry Hills. It had been over half a decade of succulent Argentine-style grilled meats, great tunes and Brussels sprouts, all wrapped up in the stunning décor that feels like the dining room of a mildly hedonistic aristocrat. However, the doors closed long ago to a la carte diners at the Cleveland Street restaurant and Porteño started it new chapter in a new home: 50 Holt Street, Surry Hills. The team that brought us Bodega, Gardel's Bar and a million and one incredible pop-ups has shifted its lauded dining skills to the space that used to house the Sydney branch of Melbourne's tapas king, MoVida. After acquiring the space, Milgate and Abrahanowicz, along with co-owner and sommelier Joe Valore, finally opened their doors to diners back in 2011. The joint continued along the same theme of good food and great vibes that punters came to love from Porteño. The overall theme of white walls, checkered tiling and exposed timber made the jump over to the newer shop, and the faultless playlists showing off the greatest rock and roll acts you've never heard of stayed as well. "On the whole, at Holt Street, it is the same Porteño, in a new space and a few exciting additions," the crew told Concrete Playground. Porteño's menu saw a slight change, opting towards full dishes and a tweaked flavour. It is still largely fuelled by Argentinian cooking, but with a slightly more of a Mediterranean flavour than the last menu. The restaurant is a touch smaller, seating about 30 fewer people than the Cleveland Street location. The menu includes small plates such as wagyu carpaccio, Sydney rock oysters, Spanish style olives, potato croquette, woodfired scallop and tallow-fried empanada. For a main, there's a smoked chicken with lemon and black pepper gravy, a seven-day dry-aged pork tomahawk as well as a steak menu to whet your tastebuds. All up, Porteño's maintains the charm it's always had, no matter where it's located. Images: Steven Woodburn.
Hungry? Or need a new pair of sneakers? Solve one or both of these dilemmas at Butter, Sydney's utterly ridiculous palace of fried chicken, Champagne and sneakers. Located on Hunt Street in Surry Hills, Butter gets its vibe from New York City's hip hop culture. Think fried chicken with punk names — I'll have a hot AF 3PAC, thx — and a fancy-ass champagne menu, served in a totally packed club-like environment. Doubting its street cred? Don't. This place is the real deal. Chicken is the name of the game at Butter and the first thing you'll notice is the lack of bones — just buttery soft chicken flesh all the way through. This is achieved by brining the chicken in buttermilk then dipping it in a cayenne and cumin-spiced batter to seal in all those precious juices. Another pat with a paper towel wouldn't have gone astray, but instead those oils went towards nourishing my hands and cuticles. Thanks for that. A worthy alternative to the fried chicken packs is the chicken sandwich, a delightfully oversized portion of fried chicken served between a dashi butter-soaked milk bun. All chicken can be ordered naked (aka sans sauce) or, if you're not a big wimp, choose from the hot sauces; fire or reaper hot sauce. Don't choose the reaper if you're not a hundred per cent you can handle it. If you're craving something fresh to balance out all the butter, bypass the slaw, which is drowning in its own creamy dressing. Get a serve of crunchy, lip-puckering seasoned greens, which are guaranteed to sober you up and keep you feeling fresh — like a good ol' slap to the face. A side of laces — that is, the super crispy French fries — is non-negotiable. Liberally sprinkled with homemade shiitake seasoning, you'll never look at chicken salt the same way again. When it comes down to the champagne, maybe skip on the Ruinart Blanc de Blanc. Your mouth can become quite overpowered with the hot and spicy flavours, and you won't be able to distinguish it from a bottle of Yellowglen. Instead, go for one of their boozy slushies topped with soft serve (yes, really) or a beer, such as the cheap and cheerful Philter XPA. Oh, and don't forget that you can get your kicks at Butter, too — quite literally. The front of the shop displays 70 handpicked collector's edition sneakers. We strongly suggest buying a pair after your meal and going for one hell of a run. You'll find Butter in our list of the best fried chicken in Sydney. Check out the full list here. Appears in: Where to Find the Best Burgers in Sydney for 2023 The Best Fried Chicken in Sydney for 2023
If you're in search of top-notch cheese, quality deli goods and a cosy spot to connect with your local neighbours, this inviting specialty grocer in Newtown is the place for you. Marani Deli's warm interiors provide a local community hub reminiscent of the small providores and cheese shops of Europe. On display is an alluring showcase of local, Italian, French and Georgian cheese. You'll also find shelves filled with all of your charcuterie necessities, from grab-and-go items like freshly baked baguettes and panini to cold cuts and artisanal chocolates. An abundance of riches. Alex Grenouiller (ex-Cafe Paci, ex-Penny's Cheese Shop), Marani Deli's founder, conceived the store by taking inspiration from three core sources: the neighbourhood shops of his childhood hometown of Lyon, France, his partner's Sicilian heritage, and their shared experiences in Georgia. As a result, the deli aims to provide Newtown goers a space to meet with their fellow locals. And if you swing by during the evenings, you'll discover curated food events known as 'supra nights', similar to that of a Parisian caves à manger. These evenings aim to celebrate the work of makers and importers. The lovely space includes photographs, gorgeous wooden cupboards and vibrant recipe books, as well as work by local artists, including prints and illustrations from Rose Colbeck, ceramics made by the Marrickville-based chef-turned-potter Daniel J Mulligan — known for his Chef VS Clay series — and handmade wooden boards from Ripple Boards. A true neighbourhood treat.
Winter isn't coming — it's here. And the best way to stave off those icy winds of the city? A delicious, steaming pot of tea (with accompanying snacks, of course). Pots of tea last considerably longer than cups of coffee so they're perfect for an extended catch-up with a mate — they also have a comfort factor that can help soothe sniffles or the flu. You can go for something familiar like an Earl Grey or English Breakfast, or branch out into something more floral or herby. Sydney is having something of a tea renaissance at the moment, so it's the perfect time to stock up on loose leaf, break out the knitted tea cosy and get cosy with some homebrew. You just have to know where to get the good stuff. THE RABBIT HOLE ORGANIC TEA BAR, REDFERN The owners of this place settled on the perfect name, because a visit truly is like being flung down the rabbit hole and into Wonderland. Flavour combinations you would never have considered (peppermint and pineapple? Black tea with a dollop of raspberry jam?) somehow just totally make sense. The food menu often features tea stashed away somehow — our visit featured Earl Grey jam and black tea chutney, both were mindbogglingly good. We're coming back for the dessert degustation — four courses of treats matched with teas. Ridiculous right? And we haven't even mentioned the tea mocktails or tea hot chocolates or... If you're in the CBD, Rabbit Hole have also just opened at Barangaroo. THE TEA COSY, THE ROCKS If a traditional, British-style afternoon tea experience is what you're after, this gem nestled into the back of a heritage-listed building in The Rocks should fit the bill. Pots of tea here are incredibly good value at $5 a pop — try the caramel whiskey or apple pie varieties to feel like you're being hugged from the inside. For $14 you can get two giant fluffy scones, your pick of jam, double cream and a pot of tea of your choice — they come served with a fluffy tea cosy and with delicate patterned porcelain to up the quaint factor. The owners here are like tea sommeliers and will expertly talk you through their wares — we tried gunpowder green on their recommendation and may have a new favourite herbal tipple. WHITE RABBIT TEAHOUSE, CHIPPENDALE Instead of 'dinner and a show,' how about 'tea and an exhibition'? After spending a few hours wandering through the ever-changing and always fascinating Asian art on display at White Rabbit, settle in for homemade dumplings and tea at the Teahouse. Herbal teas are the go here — Chinese and Taiwanese styles that you may never have heard of are listed alongside white teas, iced teas and matcha products. Ask one of the staff if you need a recommendation — our pick is the chrysanthemum and goji berry which comes served in a glass pot so you can watch the leaves unfurl as your delicate brew infuses. T TOTALER, NEWTOWN So you like tea, but don't know much about it? Or maybe you're just looking to fall in love with a new blend — or maybe even create one of your own? This inner west shopfront holds tea lending workshops on the fourth Sunday of each month. After a lesson on the history of tea and the different types and properties of tea leaves you'll be let loose to create your very own varietal. Expert tasters are there to guide you towards something that will taste inevitably amazing, but you're also free to go wild and create something unique. The shop also sells a wide range of delicious products, all that are 100 percent Australian made. T Totaler is also now open at The Galeries. ZENSATION TEA HOUSE, REDFERN Yum cha literally translates to 'drink tea,' though for many Australians who are smashing yum cha while feeling a little dusty on a Saturday morning, the tea is secondary to the delicious dumplings. If you want to do yum cha right however, book in for a tea appreciation workshop at Zensation. It comes with a full yum cha meal, but here the focus is on the five or six different Chinese teas that are matched to your food — sort of like a tea degustation. The space is small and intimate and the staff are just totally delightful. If you ask nicely, they might also do a calligraphy demonstration for you. GATEHOUSE TEA ROOMS, PARRAMATTA We're not 100 percent sure but this might be the oldest place to settle in for high tea in Australia. The Gatehouse Tea Rooms is a UNESCO heritage-listed building from 1887 set in the picturesque surrounds of Parramatta Park — and with an excellent menu to boot. Choose from over a dozen tea varietals — the punjabi chai and goji acai were both excellent — and settle in with scones, pastries and finger sandwiches. You can also just pop in for a pot of tea on its own, it will be served with no less pomp and ceremony and can be matched with a damn fine melting moment biscuit for an excellent afternoon treat. THE TEA CENTRE, CBD If you want or need anything even vaguely connected to tea there's a pretty strong chance this place will have it. From tea leaves and tea cups to strainers and vintage-style tea storage tins, it's all here. After starting as a small shop in Paddington in Sydney's east over 20 years ago, The Tea Centre brand has grown to have 12 stores across Australia's eastern states, however staff here have remained attentive, knowledgeable and super friendly. All tea is ethically sourced and once you've found the blend you like, their online store is a dream to use to buy more from the comfort of home. The Tea Centre also have another shop in Hornsby. TEA JOURNAL, CHATSWOOD Away from the hustle and bustle of Chatswood's main shopping strip, this little tea nirvana is trying to teach people about the lost art of relaxation. The owners source all their Chinese herbal teas from two family-owned plantations in China, and offer tea appreciation classes on Wednesday evenings. Stop by for a cuppa in-store and staff will try to match you to a blend that not only tastes good, but has medicinal benefits matched to your needs. Still not enough? Try one of the tea-scented snacks on offer — the rose and black tea chiffon cake is incredible. DRAGON WELL CHINESE TEA HOUSE, PYRMONT There's a strong old Shanghai vibe going on at Dragon Well — the wooden furniture, dim lighting and incredibly fragrant tea all combine to make you feel like you've somehow stepped back in time and onto another continent. You can ask to try any products that are available for sale — the green teas are especially good, very clean and fresh tasting. You can book in for a tea appreciation class or just wander around the old terrace that's packed full of things to touch and sniff. T2 Before you start on a chain rant, hear us out. These very distinctive tea shops seem to be in every shopping centre and suburban mall these days, but with good reason. Their range of teas is unparalleled in Australia, and if you're looking for a gift for a tea lover this place is the business — a brightly coloured teapot or cannister of something interesting will go down a treat. As well as loose tea leaves and tea bags, T2 shops sell excellent flavoured tisanes that can be brewed both hot and cold. Staff can usually give you recipe ideas to take your hot or iced tea-game to the next level. Best of all? There's always a few pots steeping away, so you can sample something new. Everywhere. No really — everywhere.
Good Fella Coffee is The Hills' hidden gem. It's serving up specialty coffee brews and tasty bagels in Bella Vista. If you like a seat with a view, you've come to the right place. Every table has uninterrupted views of the bar, letting you watch the baristas work their magic. Grab a spot on one of the lower level's wrap-around wooden tables or head upstairs to the sleek mezzanine loft for bar-style seating. Peruse the menu and you'll find your coffee classics, cold pressed juices and the house ice tea ($6). Beer by The Grifter is also on offer. Bagels are the star of this menu selection, with options including cream cheese ($10), smoked salmon ($20) and the vegan-friendly sweet boy ($13). There is also spring salad ($18) and muesli ($17) on offer if you're in the mood for a fresher option. For something snazzy, opt for pizza, toasties or the house-made pies. Appears in: The Best Cafes in Sydney Where to Find the Best Bagels in Sydney for 2023
Even when your boss keeps you chained to the desk till sundown, the day needn't be filed as a write-off. Sydney isn't only good for clandestine beaches, idiosyncratic water holes and splashing about under falls, it has night swimming on tap, too. Here are five spots where you can take a dip after dark, with enough light to see, while protected from nocturnal sea life. Before we dive in, though, a word of warning. While night swimming can be all sorts of fun, it can also prove dangerous. It's definitely not recommended for the intoxicated or for those lacking in swim-confidence. We've swum frequently at each of the following locations at night, but conditions can change: lights go out, surf reaches scary heights, shark nets are only nets — not concrete walls. Take people with you and keep your judgement handy. BRONTE POOL It might be a tangle of action during the day, but, after 11pm, Bronte is as tranquil as a mountaintop monastery. There's no pub or hostel to attract raucous types, so, once the eateries wind down, it's all empty streets and quiet parks. The pool, however, never closes. It makes for fantastic night swimming because you have the reassurance of four walls, yet you're close enough to the surf to experience a sense of wildness. Even better when the moon's full. Bronte Pool lies at the southern end of Bronte Beach. ROSS JONES MEMORIAL POOL, COOGEE Like Bronte, Ross Jones combines the security of solid enclosure with an absolute oceanfront position. Your swim comes with panoramic views across Coogee Bay and out to the horizon, through walls that mimic the battlements you might find on expert sandcastles. The pool was built back in 1947 and has since been photographed extensively by the likes of Ian Lever and Ken Duncan. Find Ross Jones Memorial Pool at the southern end of Coogee Beach, just next door to the SLSC. MAHON POOL, MAROUBRA For even more wildness, head further south to Maroubra's Mahon. It's one of Sydney most invigorating ocean pools – when the tide's high and the swell's raging, waves come crashing over the walls. Plus, being hidden away at the bottom of a headland and occupying an especially exposed position, it really does feel a long way from the city. Flood lighting provides visibility at night. Take care when walking around — wet rocks are slippery rocks. To reach Mahon Pool, descend the staircase on the coast side of Marine Parade car park. SHARK BEACH, NIELSEN PARK For a spangled city skyline, Sydney Harbour's Shark Beach is hard to top. The view extends all the way from the titanium glow of Sydney Tower to the Bridge, foregrounded by national park. Don't let the name frighten you off – the swimmable part of the beach is hemmed in by floor-to-surface netting in summer. Floating about freely in the deep, inky water – where I definitely wouldn't be hanging around in the absence of anti-shark protection – is kind of exhilarating. Beg your boss for an early mark, so you can catch the sunset. Shark Beach is off Nielsen Park, Greycliffe Avenue, Vaucluse. WATSONS BAY BATHS When the Watsons Bay Baths were revamped in 2010, they gained Olympic proportions. So, if you're the next Ian Thorpe, pop down here for some mean midnight lap training. Alternatively, float about at your leisure, taking in the city views, or sprawl out on a pontoon. They're intended for sunbathing but are equally effective for stargazing. Once you're done, the Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel is just a warming trot across the grass. Let it be emphasised that pub sojourns should take place after — and not before — swimming. You'll find the Watsons Bay Baths on Marine Parade, just opposite Tea Gardens Cafe.
Nothing says winter like a hearty Sunday roast. Whether you're after the whole hog or a contemporary take on the traditional feast, the perfect hot meal is being served up weekly at some of the best venues in Sydney. Here are 11 to tick off your list, from a giant Yorkshire pudding packed with meat and veggies at Forrester's to a ten-course degustation at Nel Restaurant. Wherever you go, you can count on a belly full — and that fancy feeling you're a million miles from Monday. WATSON'S BAY BOUTIQUE HOTEL, WATSON'S BAY You might think of Watson's Bay Boutique Hotel as a classic summer destination, but it's now embracing winter just as wholeheartedly. Swing by from midday on a Sunday, and you can swap 35 bucks for a plate loaded in the traditional style. That means the meat of the day, plus Yorkshire pudding, potatoes, greens and, most importantly, lashings of gravy. If you can, nab a table in the sunset room upstairs. Floor-to-ceiling windows afford views of the harbour while roaring fires keep things warm and cosy. It's extra special at sunset. FORRESTER'S, SURRY HILLS Every year since 2021, The Big Yorkie at Forrester's in Surry Hills has been one of Sydney's most popular winter dishes. The key to its success is simple yet ingenious: everyone knows that Yorkshire pudding is the best part of the roast, so Head Chef Patrick Friesen made it the main event. That's right, The Big Yorkie is a massive Yorkshire pudding. And it's filled to the brim with roasted meat, crispy spuds, seasonal veggies and loads of gravy. Even better, it's available every single day of the week, from midday till sold out. THE CUT BAR & GRILL, THE ROCKS For an especially indulgent Sunday afternoon, book a table at The Cut Bar & Grill in The Rocks. For $49, you'll be feasting on a smoky, slow-cooked Cape Grim prime rib, alongside Yorkshire pudding, hassleback potatoes, roasted onions, sautéed baby carrots and crushed baby peas. They all come bathed in a rich, red wine-infused gravy, with horseradish cream on the side. Do be tempted to follow up with a hot fudge sundae at $21. The roast is available every Saturday and Sunday from midday–3pm. BISTRO MONCUR, WOOLLAHRA Winter in Woollahra has become unimaginable without Sunday roast at Bistro Moncur. And, now that the chilly weather has set in, it's back for another round — with a menu that changes every six weeks. This season kicked off with Dewsbury pork belly, before moving onto Riverina lamb rump. It arrives at your table with Yorkshire pudding, duck fat potatoes, pumpkin puree, petits pois à la francaise and rosemary jus, at 45 bucks a plate. Every dish is the creation of London-born chef Tom Deadman, who took over the 30-year-old kitchen in 2022 after working at Read's in the UK (which had a Michelin star at the time) and Becasse in Surry Hills. WOOLLAHRA HOTEL, WOOLLAHRA In the same building as Bistro Moncur, you'll find the Woollahra Hotel. And it has a Sunday roast all of its own. For $32, you'll get a plate loaded with slow-roasted pork belly, alongside braised red cabbage, glazed carrots and crispy potatoes — all lathered in house-made gravy. Red wine is always a good idea on a cold day, and you'll find plenty of drops to choose from on sommelier Mark Blake's list, including many that are organic, vegan and preservative-free. Grab a seat in the shiny public bar, which was polished within an inch of its life during a major reno in 2023, or head for the neon-lit, greenery-splashed courtyard. NEL RESTAURANT, SURRY HILLS The traditional roast is such a good formula, it's hard to mess with it without, well, messing it up. But one chef who challenges convention every year — and seriously pulls it off — is Nelly Robinson, owner and Head Chef at NEL Restaurant. In his cosy bunker near Central Station, he's transformed the roast into a ten-course degustation. Every mouthful brings you those familiar, comforting, centuries-old flavours, but with a fun twist. Look out for dark ale-and-treacle crumpets, cauliflower mac and cheese, and at the heart of it all, a superb piece of lamb. It's on every Sunday throughout June and July. RED LION HOTEL, ROZELLE Sometimes, there's nothing better than keeping your Sunday roast simple at a neighbourhood pub. If that sounds like you, factor the Red Lion Hotel in Rozelle into your weekend plans. Every Sunday, you can kick back with a hearty feast for just $27. Chilly day? Grab a seat by the fire, where you'll warm up in no time. There's nothing quite like dining in front of roaring flames while the wind's howling outside. Alternatively, rug up and head out to the balcony, where you'll catch lovely sunset views. CASA ESQUINA, BALMAIN Another spot that's taken a new approach to tradition is Casa Esquina, an Argentinian restaurant in Balmain. Here, you can eat your roast in your hands — because it fits into a tortilla. As you settle in, your table will be covered in share plates of flame-roasted chicken, succulent porchetta, Old Bay fries with chipotle aioli, and mixed leaf salad dressed in black pepper-garlic vinaigrette. Spoon a little (or a lot) of each into a warm tortilla, top it with house-made salsa espanola — and voila, you'll have a roast keeping your fingers warm. The pleasure will set you back 60 bucks a pop, and is made for sharing. THE GOLDEN SHEAF, DOUBLE BAY In the Golden Sheaf's pretty, warmly lit, greenery-filled beer garden, you can tuck into a roast for $30. Your plate will arrive loaded with roast beef, Yorkshire pudding, golden potatoes, honey-and-mustard parsnips, carrots and rainbow chard — all doused in gravy. Add an entree in the form of charred Tassie octopus or crispy calamari, along with a glass of Untitled pinot noir from Victoria or a Right Bank shiraz from the Barossa Valley, and you'll be all set for a long and cosy afternoon. The beer garden is well heated — but if you're still cold, it's even warmer inside. THE GIDLEY, SYDNEY Like NEL Restaurant, The Gidley takes humble Sunday tradition to the next level. On the first Sunday of the month, the decadent underground steakhouse is dishing up four roast-inspired courses alongside matching fine wines — for $160 per person. Start with posh bites like confit duck cigars and tuna tartare, before moving on to charred red emperor grapes with mint and garlic butter beans. The main is a rib roast served with red wine jus and sides of potato gratin, creamed spinach and iceberg salad. And for dessert? Warm apple crumble with Grand Mariner custard and buttermilk ice cream. If you want to get even fancier, add caviar or a cheese plate featuring local and imported cuts.
One word: laksa. Ho Jiak's laksa is one of the absolute best in Sydney. But if you're in the mood for other Malay favourites like chilli crab, mie goreng (try it with lobster and you'll never look back) or Ipoh hor fun, then you're in luck because Ho Jiak does it all flawlessly. For the most part, the eatery makes you feel as though you're in Penang, devouring street eats — but with a few modern twists here and there (and sturdier chairs). So, if you're craving that essential street food travel experience, a visit to Ho Jiak to eat traditional recipes handed down within the family of chef Junda Khoo is worth your time. Just be sure to make a reservation because this spot has a line out the door most days. [caption id="attachment_731636" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Trent Van Der Jagt[/caption] Highlights include the Ichi Kabin for a starter, a delicious serving of deep fried chicken wings, or the stir fried crispy fish skins with salted duck egg yolk, butter and curry leaves. From the sea try the steamed barramundi with soy sauce and shallots, while the paddock provides succulent wagyu with black pepper and oyster sauce or braised slow cooked pork in soy sauce. There's an entire menu for vegetarians to pick from too, as well as gluten free. Images: Trent van der Jagt You'll find Ho Jiak in our list of the best degustations in Sydney. Check out the full list here.
The wooden walls and dim lighting inside of Yulli's lends a cosy atmosphere to the eccentric and haphazard collection of furniture. Made of recycled materials, the tables perch on Astroturf which covers the floors and runs up the back walls. Quirky, definitely. But not uncomfortably so; there is something that feels familiar about the place. Located opposite the Clock on Crown Street, Yulli's is easy to miss. We would recommend that you don't do that, however. Whether you are in search of excellent food or a tall glass of beer, Yulli's won't disappoint. While many vegan restaurants can intimidate meat-eaters, Yulli's is accessible. This is essential for vegos, who often have trouble sifting through a menu for something that complements their diet, and for non-vegos who want to give vegan fare a try. This bar-and-restaurant combo is a little like your favourite aunt - loveable and approachable, even if a little 'out-there'. The food at Yulli's is served in the tapas tradition, small plates of food meant to be shared. To start, there is the mini Vietnamese pancakes with chilli radish, crispy tofu skin and succulent king mushrooms. This is topped with fresh herbs and a plum sauce which deliciously drizzles down. Equally as tasty, is the baked brussells sprouts in filo parcels with Tom Yum sauce and a succulent black olive mousse. As a main, we sampled the smoked eggplant with sweet pepper Romesco sauce. It was topped with pomegranate and a chervil salad on a bed of puffed wild rice. The smokiness and the sweetness challenged one another on the palate while the pomegranate gave it a hint of bitterness. To complement the fabulous food, there is an equally tempting dessert menu and an astonishingly thorough beer list. Featuring over 30 hand crafted microbrewery beers, all from independent NSW breweries, this beer list can and will satisfy any beer enthusiast. Yulli's wine list is impressive as well, including a nice range of local, again independent, wineries' products. With limited room, don't be surprised if Yulli's is chock-full when you arrive. Call ahead for a group; they have a room that can hold an event for up to 12 guests, as well. Alternatively, head to it's larger sister venue, Yulli's Brews, for more vegan eats and drinks. Images: Hannah Scott-Stevenson.
Close your eyes and imagine French cooking. For many of us, our minds will wander to tartare de boeuf, duck à l'orange, croissants, frog legs and snails. Unfortunately, this doesn't cover the full scope of French cuisine. Much of the modern French cuisine, served outside of France, is a hollow caricature of the true nature of its national gastronomy. At Frenchies, however, it's veered away from the dishes that haunt the tourist traps along the Champs-Élysées, and instead, offers a broader adventure into the tradition of French culinary arts. The beers brewed upstairs at Frenchies deserve a review unto themselves and, luckily, there's enough time here to wax lyrically about the raspberry saison. It delicately traipses the fine line between traditional and left of field. Dishes like steak frites served on a broad, white plate, drizzled in red wine jus, with a symphony of hand-cut fries on the side, convey that food must not only be cooked to perfection (it invariably is), but it's got to look great, too. The beef casserole is served with creamy potato gratin dauphinois and is an absolute must-order in the colder months. The wine list, too, is varied to please every palate, and features a host of Australian wines that show off characteristics inherent in French winemaking. Head chef and co-owner of Frenchies Thomas Cauquil trained at Michelin-starred restaurants across Europe. Together with Vincent de Soyres, business partner, fellow French expat and beer expat, he's helping to revitalise the French bistronomy scene in Sydney. But the team didn't stop there. After beer, they set their sights on buttery pastries and cafe fare with their new Frenchies Bakery & Pâtisserie just two doors down. Start your day at the bakery and then, when the sun goes down, hit up the brewery. The Frenchies team has your whole day covered. [caption id="attachment_705409" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Frenchies Bistro and Brewery.[/caption] Appears in: The Best Sydney Brewery Bars for 2023
The fact Ormeggio at The Spit in Mosman's D'Albora Marina has a ten-metre-long marble cocktail and gelato bar (staples at restaurants in southern Italy) should give you some idea of its authenticity. Everything here is legit, from the stucco walls and aforementioned bar to the menu: meat-free as of June 2020 (southern Italians don't eat much meat), featuring instead seafood caught by fisherman who sell it right at the wharf, as well as focaccia made in-house and taking no less than 22 hours. Finish with one of six flavours of gelato, each inspired by a different Italian dessert. To start with, the a la carte menu includes handpicked North Queensland mud crabs with a polenta tartlet and sweet corn, as well as daily market oysters with chardonnay vinegar. To share, try the Fremantle octopus cooked over charcoal or the house-made tagliolni with scallops crudo and turnip tops. Chef's selections at Ormeggio include lightly smoked Western Australian scampi with salted brioche and pistachio, or the daily catch with ocean trout roe, orange and dill. Finish off with the buttermilk gelato with cacao crumble and mint. The venue is making the most of its epic waterfront views with a sunset happy hour for the month of September 2023 from 5–6pm. Guests can enjoy classic cocktails, reduced BYO wine corkage and a Quick Picks menu with special items, not on the standard menu. Book your spot on the website now. Appears in: The Best Italian Restaurants in Sydney for 2023
Cheese isn't just a topping or a charcuterie pairing — it's a whole food group, and should be treated as such. If we had our way, the food pyramid would have a gooey, cheesy base, and probably a bite out of the top because it would also be made out of cheese. If you structure your day correctly, it's possible to have cheese for breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert — and, frankly, it would be remiss not to sneak a cheese plate in somewhere between courses. To help you set off on the road toward your personal cheese nirvana, here are ten tried, tested and truly transcendent cheese experiences you can have in Sydney, on any day of the week (plus, an additional fondue special that's just here for winter). [caption id="attachment_721671" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Daniel Boud[/caption] RACLETTE AT LOLUK BISTRO, SURRY HILLS An amazing feature of French cuisine is that pouring melted cheese over your food is considered a meal — and not just one you make at home when your housemates are out of town. The raclette craze in Sydney shows no sign of slowing, with heaps of venues offering their version of this semi-hard cheese, melted under a grill and poured on top of potatoes, meat and pickles. Bourke Street's LoLuk Bistro whips out the raclette every Tuesday and Wednesday night — and for $49 per person, you can eat as much of it as you want. MR CRISPY SANDWICH AT THE STINKING BISHOPS, ENMORE Where else to start but at the inner west's temple of cheese? We're talking about The Stinking Bishops. It's home to one of the greatest vegetarian sandwiches in Sydney, dubbed the Mushroom Mr Crispy ($11). Comprised of field and enoki mushrooms, this toastie oozes taleggio and thyme mayo. If you're a meat lover, there's also a wagyu smoked beef version, topped with horseradish mayo. And there are plenty of other cheese options if you need them. The ploughman's lunch ($27) is a plank of wood covered with incredibly hearty nibbles, while the cauliflower mac 'n' grueyere ($27) is nothing short of an otherworldly experience. [caption id="attachment_622140" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kimberley Low.[/caption] CACIO E PEPE PASTA AT BUFFALO DINING CLUB, DARLINGHURST Pasta tossed in a wheel of cheese has become a Sydney trend that doesn't seem to be slowing. You can find it at markets around town, and, this winter, Handpicked Cellar Door is even doing a flaming truffle version this winter. But a time-honoured version can be had a Darlinghurst's Buffalo Dining Club any day of the year. The restaurant mixes a traditional Roman-style cacio e pepe pasta inside a hollowed-out wheel of pecorino cheese ($24), along with freshly cracked pepper and plenty of olive oil. It all goes down tableside — we know you'll be filming the action to post on your feed later. SEASONAL CHEESECAKE AT LITTLE LORD, CAMPERDOWN Cheese doesn't always have to mean savoury. Camperdown cafe Little Lord gives you good reason to have cheese any time of the day with its seasonal and regularly changing cheesecake of the moment. Co-owner Jax Alexander makes her cheesecake the Italian way with ricotta, natural yoghurt and whichever seasonal fruit is on offer. Recent flavours include passionfruit, raspberry, and lemon and coconut. But no matter what flavour it is, it's invariably fluffy, creamy and impossible to share — the good news is, at $5 a slice, you won't have to. [caption id="attachment_711918" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kimberley Low[/caption] KIMCHI TOASTIE AT PENNY'S CHEESE SHOP, POTTS POINT Walk into Penny's Cheese Shop, and you'd think you'd died and gone to cheese heaven. With two fridges stocked to the brim with creamy, stinky, funky and hard cheeses this little unassuming fromagerie is one of the best in Sydney. Aside from the service and the cheese, Penny Lawson's golden toasties, which quickly achieved cult status, are another reason you'll return to the shop again and again and again. With cheese both on the inside and the outside of the Pioik bread, as well as a rotating range of fillings — from kimchi to smoked wagyu and jalapeños — we think they might just be the best in the city. TRUFFLE MAC AND CHEESE AT THE HENSON, MARRICKVILLE We've got to hand it to them — Americans do a few things really, really well. Free-poured drinks are one, barbecued meats are another. But top of the list for us is their ability to slather carbs with cheese in a variety of pleasing ways. At Marrickville stalwart The Henson, the kitchen has created a fancier version of the classic mac and cheese by melting tasty cheese together with heaps of parmesan and truffle oil, then adding in a 'healthy' twist with cauliflower and silverbeet greens aplenty. It's incredibly rich and cheesy, and will completely fill you up for $16 a serve. CHEESE MAKING COURSE AT CORNERSMITH, MARRICKVILLE You might know Cornersmith for its pickles and preserves — and for its courses that teach Sydneysiders the skills to it themselves. But the Cornersmith Picklery also offers a semi-regular cheesemaking course run by local supplier Kristen Allan. The half-day workshop will teach all you need to know about how to make delectable soft cheeses like ricotta and labne at home — and you'll get plenty to take home, too. The next one is coming up on August 11, and places are still available here for $170. CHEESE PLATE AT THE GPO CHEESE AND WINE ROOM, CBD The GPO Cheese and Wine Room is a fine dining cheese establishment like no other. Open since 1999, it boasts one helluva cheese list, offering over 100 varieties — which you can choose from to create your ultimate cheese board. The seasonal selection ranges from local Australian producers to options from Europe, the States and the UK. We recommend letting the in-house cheese-masters curate a platter of their favourites, which you can pair with one of over 200 wines — or opt for a cheese and wine flight while you're at it. BURRATA AT PAESANELLA, MARRICKVILLE Paesanella should be a go-to for every Sydney cheese lover. This factory has been producing a variety of handmade Italian cheeses since the 1950s, and you can peruse its many varieties at the food emporium, day or night. Of the boundless cheeses available, it's the burrata you're after: a fist-sized pouch of mozzarella filled with rich cream that oozes out when pierced. You can sit down at the downstairs pizza restaurant and enjoy it in the antipasto platter ($35), which also comes with fried dough, mixed grilled veggies and cherry tomatoes. Or take one home and serve it at room temperature. Add a few fat ribbons of prosciutto, maybe a scattering of basil leaves and some fresh bread, and you have a legendary antipasto of your own. BURRATA PIZZA AT DONNY'S PIZZA, ABBOTSFORD If you haven't spotted it already, Abbotsford has a new authentic Italian pizza joint: Donny's Pizza. The rustic 60-seater is offering quality ingredients, alongside a self-professed Big Poppa's-inspired hip-hop backdrop. While so many of the pizzas are worthy of your attention, the burrata pizza ($19) is hard to beat — as burrata atop a pizza tends to be. The dough is heavily layered with a bruschetta-like mix of fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil and olive oil, then finished off with an entire ball of gooey burrata. It'll make you wonder why every pizza isn't made the same way. Top image: Penny's Cheese Shop by Kimberley Low.
Merivale is expanding faster than our belts can handle. Justin Hemmes' heaving hospitality empire has announced the opening date and details of the newest member of the Merivale family: the Newport Arms Hotel. Or rather, The Newport. A Northern move for the city-dominant group after opening J&M's whisky bar, the revamped Ivy Pool and The Paddington in the last months, alongside renovations for the Queen Vic Hotel, Merivale's acquisition of the Pittwater hotel is a bold decision for Hemmes — and one that explains why he didn't jump on the sale of the Manly Pavilion. A landmark property of the Northern Beaches since 1880, the Newport Arms will be officially reopened as The Newport by Merivale in on Good Friday, March 25 — and we actually can't wait to see what Merivale do with the place. Good Friday will see the unveiling of the backyard wizardry and hectic landscaping that's been done on Australia's largest outdoor waterfront beer garden — all by landscaper Daniel Baffsky. According to Merivale, the grounds will be "a sprawling estate that evokes a sense of nostalgia" with flowering shrubs, jacarandas, wild cacti, succulents, Chinese elms, plane trees, crape myrtles and date palms. The actual Newport building will be the next to be revealed, drawing on influences from Montauk, The Hamptons and Mediterranean and designed by Kelvin Ho and Emilie Delalande (Akin Creative), stylist Amanda Talbot and Justin and Bettina Hemmes. In classic Merivale-style, there'll be multiple, eclectic, themed spaces to drink and dine in (and take in that view), with natural stone paving, locally-made furniture and plenty of marble. The Newport will also feature a 'vintage gymnasium' with badminton, exercise bikes that can charge mobile phones (!) ping pong tables, a giant magnetic scrabble board, outdoor petanque and concrete table tennis courts. Food-wise, expect a range of different unique noshing experiences, with executive chef Sebastien Lutaud behind the wheel. There'll be 'The Burger Shack', serving up grass-fed beef burgers and classic fish and chips, alongside a cafe filled with Australian meats like smoked brisket, barbeque chicken and hot-smoked salmon, seasonal salads, smoothies, gelato and coffee by Merivale's favourite Sydney roasters, Will & Co. Best of all, Merivale pizza guru Vincenzo Biondini will be running Vinnie's Pizzeria, featuring those insane woodfired pizzas and a huge selection of wine, beer and Sydney-centric cocktails. Live music is also a huge focus at The Newport, with an expansive alfresco deck custom built to showcase local talent, seven days a week. Sunday Sundown, Merivale's free live music series, will kick things off, with Melbourne's nine-piece soul outfit Saskwatch on Easter Sunday, followed by indie duo Gypsy & The Cat on April 3, Tasmanian singer songwriter Asta on April 10 and Sydney synth-pop trio Mansionair on April 17. The Newport is a major steal for Merivale. Following the undeniable success of the Coogee Pavilion and its Rooftop, it's likely Merivale will capitalise on the beachbound nature of the site and find a new summery theme for the hotel, overlooking Bayview, Church Point, Scotland Island and Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Perhaps Hemmes will dive into the history of the place; the Arms saw boatloads of day-trippers in the 1890s (including drunken pushes — or gangs), was a tidal swimming pool in '32, had the largest beer quota of any hotel in Sydney in '54, had weekly jazz nights in the saloon bar in the '70s, was a regular shoot location forHome and Away in the '90s and has had its fair share of looting and fires over the years. There's something to be said for the Newport, it sure stands the test of time. The Newport will open at 2 Kalinya Street, Newport on March 25, 2016.
They say people in glass houses shouldn't throw stones, which is excellent practical advice for when visiting a glass greenhouse, but they never really mention what people in glass houses should do, or even where to find glasshouses. They're pretty common in Europe, where harsh winters prevent many southern hemisphere plants from thriving, nearly every botanical garden boasts a glasshouse full of exotic species. But Australia doesn't get too many chances at glass glory. If you're in the market for a round the world trip full of steamy glass greenhouses, or if you're looking for inspiration for your indoor garden, check out ten of the best and biggest greenhouses from around the world. [caption id="attachment_574059" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Kew Conservatory.[/caption] KEW CONSERVATORY The Kew Conservatory is one of the most well known greenhouses in the world. Established in 1987 by Princess Diana and housing over 30,000 plant species, the conservatory is designed to be energy efficient and uses some passive heating and cooling design techniques to moderate each climatic area. In one of the glasshouses, you'll find giant water lilies that span over two metres and a basement level that gives you a view of the underbelly of the pond. However, you can only visit the glasshouse by purchasing a ticket for the Kew Gardens at large, so we recommend heading over in the spring or summer to soak up as much quaint English garden as you can possibly stand. [caption id="attachment_574285" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Flickr.[/caption] PALMENHAUS AT SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE The Palmenhaus Schonbrunn in Vienna is a glasshouse built in the garden of the royal palace of Schonbrunn. It bucked the dainty white trend to be built with a dusky green steel and, like many glasshouses built before WWII, it's had a long and colourful history. Palmenhaus was partially destroyed in 1945 when the palace was heavily firebombed, but has since rebuilt — and has grown its herbarium to one of the most prestigious in the world. Among the planned chaos of the overgrown garden, you'll find oldest plant in the world, an olive tree donated by Spain in 1974, is estimated to be roughly 350 years old. KAISANIEMI BOTANIC GARDENS GREENHOUSES In the Kaisaniemi Botanic Gardens in Helsinki sit three plump glasshouses laced with white. They're laid out in a more rambling fashion than traditional greenhouses, with quaint benches and tables scattered throughout, and are used as much as an education facility as a peaceful retreat from chilly Helsinki. The rooms are organised by plant variety and the most striking include the Asian waterlily rooms (think water lilies the size of a picnic rug), the desert room and atmospheric rainforest room. [caption id="attachment_574280" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Flickr.[/caption] ROYAL GREENHOUSES OF LAEKEN In the 1800s, advancements in construction techniques made the greenhouse, a building that's pretty much just a stack of delicate glass panes, possible. Many greenhouses that were built around that time followed the popular art nouveau style of looking like a glorious wedding cake — and those built on the grounds of Laeken, the Belgium royal castle, were no exception. The greenhouses were untouched during WWII and retain most of their original collections, however they're only open to the public for three weeks during the spring, which makes them all the more mysterious. [caption id="attachment_574286" align="alignnone" width="1280"] NYBG.[/caption] ENID A. HAUPT CONSERVATORY New York Botanical Garden's pretty greenhouse is named after Enid Anneberg Haupt, who donated US$10 million in 1978 to save and restore the old conservatory. The conservatory (which is just a fancy way of saying greenhouse, don't be fooled) specialises in unique exhibitions for gardeners who really know what they're doing, including orchid shows (with vertical walls lush with orchids), the flora of the Japanese garden, recreations of Monet's gardens, wild medicine gardens and edible gardens. You'll also find greenhouse mainstays, such as a hot desert room and a steamy tropical rainforest room to get lost in. THE EDEN PROJECT The Eden Project is technically not made of glass, but it's definitely earned a place on this list for its sustainable (and stunning) design and eco-friendly initiatives. It was built in 2000 on a disused kaolinite pit, near the town of St Blazey in Cornwall, after the pit reached the end of its life. The structure consists of multiple linked geodesic biomes that house the largest rainforest in captivity and a rambling garden that cascades down the edges of the pit. An education centre was built in 2005 that includes classrooms and exhibitions to educate visitors about sustainability — the central message of the Eden Project. And in winter, the tropical biome is probably the warmest place in the UK and stuffed full of rare carnivorous plants. [caption id="attachment_574288" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Wiki.[/caption] JARDIN DES PLANTES It's fitting that some of the oldest and prettiest greenhouses are found in Paris. The three greenhouses in the Jardin des Plantes are almost as lovely as the plants they house and are but one element that make up the rich and rambling garden. They were built in the art deco style (similar to the Paris metro stations) and house exotic plants from around the world, including desert plants, tropical plants from New Caledonia, and a greenhouse that tracks the evolution and history of plant life across the planet. [caption id="attachment_574289" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Flickr.[/caption] COPENHAGEN BOTANICAL GARDEN GREENHOUSES If you want to get immersed in greenhouse culture, the Botanical Garden in Copenhagen is your best value for money. Entry to the gardens is free and they have 27 greenhouses (although some aren't open to the public) scattered throughout the gardens that cover every type of plant you could imagine. Put Greenhouse #12 on your list, as it's dedicated to rare and endangered species of plants from idiosyncratic climates, such as Madagascar, the Galapagos Islands and the Mascarenes (which you will likely never see in the wild). Also Greenhouse #10, the succulent and cacti room, to get inspiration for your own succulent garden back home. THE TROPICARIUM IN FRANKFURT'S BOTANICAL GARDEN Germany experiences some achingly cold winters, so it's no wonder the vast majority of their gardens are safely cultivated inside greenhouses. Some of the most glorious of these can be found in the Palmengarten Botanical Gardens in Frankfurt. The Palmengarten is a 22 hectare botanical garden (the largest in the country) that's been open for over 140 years. The Tropicarium and the Palmenhaus (two weird names you won't forget in a hurry) both house tropical plants and cacti from warmer parts of the world inside beautiful architectural halls designed by Friedrich Von Thiersch in 1868. Like all the greenhouses built in the 1800s, it's a visual smorgasbord of greenery punctuated by delicate lattice work and flowery sconces. [caption id="attachment_574290" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Flickr.[/caption] MT COOTHA TROPICAL DOME The Tropical Dome in Brisbane's Mt Cootha Botanical gardens may not be as large or as fancy as the greenhouses of the northern hemisphere. Hell, it might not even be necessary for a sub-tropical city that is constantly humid to build a tropical dome that's even more humid. But people do love it. The bold geodesic dome pattern encloses a lush, if small, forest and pond and makes the perfect photo op. On the rolling landscape around the dome, you'll find a wide array of cacti and succulents (no greenhouse necessary to keep them alive, thank you very much) that look and feel like a tacky Western movie set. It's plant heaven and entry to the gardens is free all year.
Portraits aren't all regal furs and awkward "Oh, didn't see you there," poses. Instead the genre now sees a bold, abstract lack of convention, a rebellion that runs through the Art Gallery of New South Wales' prestigious annual Archibald Prize exhibition, currently showing. Capturing a realistic, unrelentingly vulnerable likeness of your own reflection, someone you've just met or one of your oldest buds takes a fair few stories, maybe a few beers and a willingness to tackle the intimidating notion of thinking up something new after decades of Archie winners. At the risk of sounding like an HSC essay opener, the final image isn't the whole story. Here's eight of the Archibald finalists making us wake up and pay attention (whether for great or WTF reasons) to Australia's big ol' faces — as told to the Gallery in their own words. PAUL RYAN — THIRTEEN NOAHS Paul Ryan raided quite a few junk shops — and his own early work collection — to paint over these existing curiosities with Australian actor Noah Taylor's face. "I grew up watching Noah on the big and small screen. He is a similar age to me and it has been interesting to see him age and his acting skills develop, as I have also aged and developed as an artist," says Ryan. ‘With these works, I am painting Noah as a fictional character in fictional films. There is Noah the mysterious figure in Murders at the lake, Noah as a black American pimp in Hawaiian hustle, Noah in the Australian classic Death on the Murray, and Noah in Outback wanderer. "I met him through Olsen Irwin gallery who represent us both. Our relationship was born of a mutual respect for each other’s work. As I did successive studies and hung them at random on the studio wall, the idea of what to do for this year’s Archibald was born. Noah’s face is so interesting it practically paints itself. I painted more than the 13 studies that make up this piece, and spent a few days playing with different combinations." SOPHIA HEWSON — DELIVERED Paying tribute to different methods of pornography, Sophia Hewson's confronting self portrait came from one of her Melbourne public performance works. "I was using my body in this work to try to open up a dialogue on female self-objectification (when a woman intentionally sexually objectifies herself). Sometimes I think self-objectification can be constructive. It can be used to claim back ownership of the body or to assert: "I can exhibit my sexuality without it amounting to my sexual availability"." "Other times I think it can reflect the way the patriarchal value system has been internalised. But I don’t feel you can expect a woman, who has unconsciously internalised 'male' values, to see herself as a space where something has been lost. A new identity needs to be forged. I’m interested in this because I’m struggling with it myself. I have difficulty navigating the contradictions and differentiating between internal and external influences, but I see self-portraiture as a potent site for negotiating identity." JUAN FORD — A BUNGLED CLAIRVOYANCE The full title of Juan Ford’s self-portrait is: A bungled clairvoyance of William Buckley or Ludwig Leichhardt’s most intense moments (I can’t decide which, you choose). Attempted while atop a mountain. Phew. "Making straightforward portraits is something that bores me a bit," says Ford. "Sometimes boring is fine, but right now I feel adventurous. Take Ludwig Leichhardt, the Prussian explorer who disappeared mysteriously in the Australian interior. Idealistic and adventurous, he wandered off, never to be seen again. By all reports he went quite unprepared. Or William Buckley. An escaped convict, he lived for over 30 years with the Wathaurong people on the Bellarine Peninsula. He later married a woman so short she couldn’t loop her arm through his when they went for an evening stroll. What a character. "When I try to imagine such mythic men, I make a mess of it, applying my own conventions, thus misunderstanding them utterly. To do so on a mountaintop compounds the problem. But I like to get out into wilderness; it’s where many of my ideas come from. It helps me feel I’m insignificant in the grand scheme. I can’t hope to understand Australia: it’s too vast and unknowable. Buckley and Leichhardt signify this unknowability." MITCH CAIRNS — PETER POWDITCH The runner-up for the 2015 Archibald Prize, Mitch Cairn's portrait of renowned painter Peter Powditch takes the whole thing full circle — Powditch was the winner of the 1972 Sulman Prize. "I was drawn to the idea of painting Peter after attending the recent Pop to popism exhibition at the Art Gallery of New South Wales. The inclusion of Powditch’s Seascape II 1969 to my mind reaffirmed the significance of his work,’ says Cairns. ‘In general, Peter’s work is characterised by a directness of purpose, exemplary draftsmanship and an incisive approach to painting problems. He is an unapologetic image-maker. "On accepting my invitation to sit, I spent a couple of days with Peter making drawings at his home and studio on the NSW North Coast. For this portrait, I chose to paint him in his studio. It had been raining heavily during my visit so the room was quite dark. We had a great conversation about his most recent assemblages. The beauty found and pleasure taken in the discovery of shape, here in the assemblages and also reminiscent of Seascape II, were the starting point of this painting." JASON PHU — LISA HAS A MUCH MORE PLEASANT FACE THAN GLENN... With Carriageworks director Lisa Havilah the subject of this strange portrait, the full title of Jason Phu’s painting is: Lisa has a much more pleasant face than Glenn. She also doesn’t sing horribly while playing a guitar or try to put a cat up a tree while I’m painting her. "I wanted to paint Noel but he hates doing that stuff," says Phu. "Lin was too busy with his footy schedule. Guan wasn’t in the country. So I had to settle for painting [curator] Glenn Barkley. Luckily while Glenn was distracted with showing me how much his cat loved climbing trees (which it definitely didn’t), Lisa was there so I painted her instead. Anyway, Lisa is much more prestigious in the arts and is also a lovely person. "I never really wanted to become an artist. I’ve always wanted to be a cartoonist, doing the Sunday comic strips, but I’ve been too scared to pursue it. In high school I decided I’d like to do engineering. I’ve always had a penchant for building little mechanical toys, but I didn’t have the marks to do engineering. So I had to do fine arts. It’s been all right and I’ve enjoyed it but I see myself becoming a chef in the not-too-distant future." SALLY ROSS — EVA This gorgeous portrait of Academy and Emmy Award-winning documentary filmmaker Eva Orner (Taxi to the Dark Side) wouldn't be out of place on the cover of Frankie. But there's nothing twee about this kickass human rights crusader, whose upcoming Australian-focused doco Asylum is sure to ruffle a few feathers. "I met Eva Orner through our mutual association with HAGAR Australia, an organisation working with survivors of trafficking and abuse in Afghanistan, Vietnam and Cambodia. I instinctively knew I wanted to paint her — I was struck by Eva’s sheer unselfconscious drive and her large black spectacles,’ says Ross. "In our image-saturated world I would love to see less selfies, gourmet meals, renovations and lingerie models blowing kisses, and more pictures of women, humans like Eva Orner," she says. "After an art-binge in Holland earlier this year, my head was filled with mysterious early Flemish portraiture. I wanted to work within a flat, almost dull palette and contrast a certain restraint with decorative motifs in Eva’s distinctive robe made by Afghan architect/designer Rahim Walizada.’ TIM GREGORY — SELF PORTRAIT AS ANCESTORS Putting Australia's muddled national identity on show, Tim Gregory describes this self-portrait as ‘a response to the confused, prosaic and performed nature of white Australia’. "European painting in Australia was founded by convicts who were themselves forgers, producing replicas of a landscape and life, which were facsimiles of European fantasies. In the main, this tradition continues," he says. "The combination of the redcoat and the convict is not about my own personal heritage, but more broadly about how many Australians still view themselves – as both larrikin/underdog and defender. The costumes I wear are eroticised reconstitutions of colonial history from a sexy costume store. They are in no way authentic, but held together by velcro and tassels, ready to be ripped off after the obligatory role-play of identity. "The painting is deliberately superficial: shiny, saturated, decontextualised. White painters (particularly male painters) in Australia, and the white Australian population more broadly, cannot contribute in any significant way to cultural, political or social evolution until we acknowledge that we are still a colonial country, absurdly and violently layered on top of the world’s oldest, continuous culture." PRUDENCE FLINT — BABY Writer Urszula Dawkins, who is not a mother, has been Prudence Flint's closest friend for 30 years. "When we first met she was a singer in a band. She began writing fiction in the nineties and has become a frequent lone traveller to Arctic Europe. We have supported each other in our unconventional life choices, balancing the demands of our creative lives and questioning social expectations. "The idea for the work came after seeing the late Gothic paintings of the Madonna and child in the Musée de Petit Palais, Avignon. I related to the ambivalence and the unnerving fierceness in the gestures between the mother and child," says Flint. "I wanted to paint Urszula with baby to show how the presence of motherhood is in our lives, whatever choices we make, like a parallel world. The painting began as a tiny sketch and I tried to keep it true to the tension between the monstrous and the tender. It felt like a delicate radiation area between beauty and repulsion that was tricky to paint." See the Archibald Prize at the Art Gallery of New South Wales until September 27. For more info or to book tickets, head over here.
Maydanoz on Carrington Street comes from award-winning Turkish chef Somer Sivrioğlu (Efendy). With Maydanoz, Sivrioğlu is pushing towards vegetarian and plant-based cuisine in a 100-seat venue with his business partner Tarik Köni that takes inspiration from the Turkish coast and its veggie-loving meze bars. The menu at the expansive venue is predominantly vegetarian with a smattering of meat dishes found on the menu. "So often, people equate Turkish cuisine to kebab or lamb, but in fact, the meat is often secondary to the incredible array of vegetable-driven dishes available in Turkish cuisine, particularly in the West," Sivrioğlu said. Sivrioğlu and Köni have created a series of distinct menus, based on dishes cooked in olive oil zeytinyagli style. If you are heading to Maydanoz for dinner, you'll be greeted with an extensive a la carte menu with highlights like lentil kofte; beetroot, with falafel on a spinach pita; and cabbage kebabs with harissa labna and coriander. A smattering of meat options are also on the menu, including kingfish collar kebab with sumac onion and ezme salsa. If you want to sample your way through the menu, you can opt for the feast menu. This includes aforementioned highlights like the lentil kofte alongside a wood fired oyster mushroom with macadamia and artichoke cream puree. Plus, head to Maydanoz between 3-6pm Monday to Friday for their happy hour, with discounts on beer, wine and cocktails and a limited food menu. Images: Steven Woodburn
Music, as with any art form, can serve as a means to escape; therapeutic and magical, infectious and addictive. For Adit Gauchan of Horrorshow, making music is a labour of love — actually, it's his every waking moment. "I love and breathe music so heavily that it's all I can do," he says. Horrorshow is an Australian hip hop duo from Sydney's inner west. The band is made up of producer, Adit Gauchan, and Nick Bryant-Smith (or MC Solo) on vocals. The two met at high school and released their first album in 2008 through Sydney label, Elefant Traks. Adit explains, "we started out making music in our dad's houses. We'd write and record in our bedrooms and I guess that way of working has never really stopped for us". In partnership with Sonos, we've been delving into some of our favourite artist's home studios – here is where the Horrorshow magic happens. THE MAGIC HAPPENS IN A CONVERTED BEDROOM Three years ago, Adit moved in with Sarah Corry, his partner in life, love and music (she's one half of Sydney electronica duo, Left). They soon converted the second bedroom of their Newtown house into a studio space. "One of the best things about having a home studio is the creative people that come through regularly", he says. "Every couple of months we'll have a party, and what happens when you get a bunch of musicians in the same room, dancing and drinking? They want to record some demos in the studio". His second-bedroom home studio serves as a safe, creative space for many of the other musicians the pair work with (Left and the One Day project, to name just two). "This is where we write a lot of the music". 'Sleep', a song by Hau (the solo project of Hau Latukefu, formerly of Koolism) was worked out at one of Adit's parties. "Capturing that kind of energy, it's a real positive for me". Of course, music is played at parties and music gets heard at parties. If you create the right environment, music can be created at parties. He continues, "Luckily we have some very lovely neighbours who support us and don't mind the noise". THEIR HOUSE IS NEVER, EVER SILENT I ask him what's it's like living with another creative - after all, Sarah is a successful vocalist and musician herself. "It brings an interesting dynamic. Creatively, there's an understanding", he says. Music pulsates through their house almost constantly, through his Sonos speakers. Good sound is important to him. Especially, Adit says, when the pair (or anyone that happens to visit their house) are recording. Our conversation continues and he voices a well-humoured frustration with Bluetooth. "Like most people, I don't have the best relationship with Bluetooth. It's just so unreliable, which is why I'm so pumped that Sonos speakers connect with Wi-Fi". FIGURE OUT WHAT WORKS FOR YOU AND RUN WITH IT After almost a decade, Horrorshow's method of writing and recording hasn't really changed. Adit's home studio functions as a writing space where he crafts and layers beats, usually on his own. Once he feels he's onto something good, Solo will come over and the two will jam out the direction the song will take. "We'll work on songs together, but Solo might go and chill in the back yard and work on raps and melodies for beats I've already laid down". Like many musicians, Horrorshow started out with home recording and stresses how important it is to figure out what works for you. "I would love to have a studio at my place of residence, but not necessarily inside the house. If one day, I had a bigger back yard and there was a bit more space, I'd love to house a recording space in a different building", he says. Everyone works differently and there are certainly challenges to working from home - concentration, motivation, loneliness. WORK EVERY DAY, UNTIL YOU LOSE YOUR FLOW. THEN GO TO THE BEACH There are few things more frustrating than a creative block, when the pace slows and your fingers are giving you nothing. For Adit, his creativity suffers when he loses momentum. "When I've been writing a lot, the ideas will flow. Shooting videos, going on tour - these things get in the way. I really find routine is the most important thing when it comes to creativity", he says. "Create a space that you want to spend time in and work on something everyday. That's how you'll make great stuff and get better". What about when the dreaded creative block hits? "Just stop. Go outside, have a meal, go to the beach, enjoy the sunshine". Yes, sir. SWITCH OFF, AND LOVE WHAT YOU DO When it comes to switching off, Adit doesn't struggle too much. "Being in the studio is never work to me. Sure, there is work relating to what I do — meetings, tour rehearsals, that sort of stuff — but when I'm in the studio, that's a whole different thing. It's important to have a space that encourages your creativity, that you're happy to use regularly". Naturally, when you spend every waking minute practicing your art, it can be difficult to switch off. "Even when I'm doing my tax, it's related to music in some way. Switching off can definitely be a problem, but it's not insurmountable. It doesn't make me want to change the way I do things, it's something I'm happy to put up with", Adit continues. "With music, it's fun and all that, but if you want to make a living out of it, you have to live and breathe it. But, if you love what you do, it's worth it right?" Get studio-level sound in your home with Sonos. Walk from one room to another and hear the same song in perfect quality – speakers are powered by wifi and tune automatically. Horrowshow are pumped for their thirteen date national tour. It's their first time on the road in nearly a year, and they're promising new tracks alongside old favourites.
Modern Australian restaurant Jensen's is where southern Sydneysiders go for a celebratory feed. The menu begins with entrees such as chicken and cabbage dumplings with 'Bang Bang' sauce and Sichuan oil; tuna sashimi with salt caramel and chilli aioli; BBQ king prawns with curry butter and fried curry leaves; or fried gnocchi with goats cheese cream and crispy basil. For something more substantial it offers a pork fillet with roast apple puree verjus and raisins; a crispy skin barramundi with roast chicken butter and rosemary dust; Jerusalem artichoke agnolotti with truffle cream emulsion; and a black Angus eye fillet 250g served with chips, roast tomato emulsion, tomato salt and jus. Restaurateur Carl Jensen also operates Summer Salt in Cronulla, and Jensen's is a return to a restaurant name he held 30 years ago. The restaurant space is light and airy, with casual seating arrangements. It takes bookings and, for those wanting to pop their own cork, Jensen's offers BYO wine and champagne on select days (Thursday to Sunday for lunch, while Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday for dinner), for not much per bottle. Images: Alexander Hoy
There's a relatively new doughnut queen in town, and she's doing things decidedly differently. After developing a gluten and dairy allergy back in 2017, Yu Ozone refused to give up on her love of food. Instead, she created Comeco, which is serving up gluten (and dairy) free sourdough doughnuts and vegan sushi to the Newtown masses. "One thing I could not give up was eating delicious food [with my husband]," Ozone told Concrete Playground. "We love eating, and we used to go out together to have delicious meals, or cook for ourselves...and we treasured these moments. However, since my allergy developed, we could not eat the same meals together. Since then, our life work became to cook delicious foods." And Comeco really does take gluten free and vegan eating to the next level. While many gluten free alternatives are packed with additives, Comeco's products are made using organic everything — and no processed or unpronounceable ingredients. Starting off in the market circuit, Comeco finally opened its brick-and-mortar storefront down the southside of King Street in July 2020. "King Street is also known as Vegan Street," says Ozone, who took a survey from her Instagram followers and found Newtown was the place to be. "There are many vegan stores but there is only one vegan dessert store, so we thought our doughnuts would be in demand." [caption id="attachment_791043" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cassandra Hannagan[/caption] And boy, was she right. Since opening, Comeco has steadily garnered a cult following. All doughies are made using an organic brown rice sourdough starter, which gives the doughnuts a crisp exterior and a wonderfully chewy inside. Ozone's favourite is the sweet-and-sour passionfruit custard, drizzled with fresh passionfruit pulp. You'll see plenty of Japanese influence on the menu too, including flavours like red bean, black sesame custard (made with house-roasted seeds) and matcha custard, which uses high-grade organic matcha imported from Japan. The organic strawberry jam sourdough is our pick. Once the weekend rolls around, the cafe serves up platters of vegan sushi, with varieties including chilli shiitake tempura, seven-spice tofu and aburi eggplant teriyaki rolls — that last one convincingly replicates grilled eel sushi. Comeco is also slinging Single O coffees and Japanese specialties like organic matcha and black sesame lattes. While it's primarily a takeaway joint, there are seats for up to ten. Either way, be sure to have a look behind the open kitchen — a design choice which Ozone says was necessary to make sure the ingredients and cooking processes remain as transparent as possible. No need to wait in the inevitable queue, either — just order online and your doughies will be ready for pick up in 40 minutes. Images: Cassandra Hannagan
Merivale is expanding faster than our belts can handle. On Good Friday, Justin Hemmes' heaving hospitality empire cut the red ribbon on the newest member of the Merivale family: the Newport Arms Hotel. Or rather, The Newport. A Northern move for the city-dominant group after opening J&M's whisky bar, the revamped Ivy Pool and The Paddington in the last few months, alongside renovations for the Queen Vic Hotel, Merivale's acquisition of the Pittwater hotel is a bold decision for Hemmes. A landmark property of the Northern Beaches since 1880, the Newport Arms has now officially reopened as The Newport. Design-wise, there's been some hectic landscaping that's been done on Australia's largest outdoor waterfront beer garden — all by landscaper Daniel Baffsky. According to Merivale, the grounds are "a sprawling estate that evokes a sense of nostalgia" with flowering shrubs, jacarandas, wild cacti, succulents, Chinese elms, plane trees, crape myrtles and date palms. The actual Newport building draws on influences from Montauk, The Hamptons and Mediterranean and has been designed by Kelvin Ho and Emilie Delalande (Akin Creative), stylist Amanda Talbot and Justin and Bettina Hemmes. In classic Merivale-style, there's multiple, eclectic, themed spaces to drink and dine in (and take in that view), with natural stone paving, locally-made furniture and plenty of marble. The Newport also features a 'vintage gymnasium' with badminton, exercise bikes that can charge mobile phones (!) ping pong tables, a giant magnetic scrabble board, outdoor petanque and concrete table tennis courts. Food-wise, expect a range of different unique noshing experiences, with executive chef Sebastien Lutaud behind the wheel. Lutaud has fried escargot alongside France's Oliver Elzer, prepared sashimi with Tetsuya Wakuda and headed up Felix Bar and Bistro. Now, he's bringing his 25 years of gun hospitality experience to Sydney's northern beaches. "From the minute The Newport was described to me, I thought it was going to be an amazing project," says Lutaud. "It's a one-of-a-kind in Sydney, if not Australia — an amazing venue in an amazing spot." The Newport has a strong focus on food. But don't expect a single service counter or a straightforward menu at this renovated pub. Instead, expect to feel a bit like you're walking through a permanent food festival. Lutaud designed the menu with input from some of Merivale's other key chefs, so you'll notice some familiar imports — and a similar stall-type layout to the Coogee Pavilion's foreshore fest. "There are little stalls and outlets, selling different types of food," says Lutaud. "So, for example, we've got Vinnie's [Merivale pizza guru Vincenzo Biondini] pizzas, from Coogee. We've got a burger shack, where we do six different burgers and five different salads." There's also a cafe filled with Australian meats like smoked brisket, barbeque chicken and hot-smoked salmon, seasonal salads, smoothies, gelato and coffee by Merivale's favourite Sydney roasters, Will & Co. Given The Newport's Pittwater location, there's also a spot dedicated to fish and chips. "But I wouldn't call it your classic fish and chips, where everything's deep-fried," says Lutaud. "We do have the classic version, but we've also dishes like grilled Clarence River octopus and pan-fried snapper with simple salad." If you're travelling with mates or family and want to share, you'll be heading to The Kiosk, for small and large platters. "We have a French rotisserie, where we're doing chicken and Rangers Valley brisket and hot-smoked whole salmon, which we'll serve with rolls, salads and nice sauces. There's also a seafood section, with fresh oysters, cooked prawns and a crab omelette, with Vietnamese herbs and dressing." As for ordering, you'll have two options. The first is the old-fashioned method of heading to the stall, putting in your request and grabbing a buzzer. The second is downloading an app and doing it all from the comfort of your bar stool. The only catch is that the app is still in development – at this stage, it's good for pizzas, and other stalls will be added with time. Live music is also a huge focus at The Newport, with an expansive alfresco deck custom built to showcase local talent, seven days a week. Sunday Sundown, Merivale's free live music series, will kick things off, with indie duo Gypsy & The Cat on April 3, Tasmanian singer songwriter Asta on April 10 and Sydney synth-pop trio Mansionair on April 17. The Newport is now open at 2 Kalinya Street, Newport. Find more information on Merivale's website. By Shannon Connellan and Jasmine Crittenden. Images: Bodhi Liggett.
Forget everything you thought you knew about a steakhouse, and go and try Chophouse in the Sydney CBD. Described as a tribute to the New York-style steakhouse, Chophouse removes itself from the regular gimmicks of steakhouses and instead exudes a level of class through its service, food and contemporary setting. Inside the Sydney restaurant, the lighting is fairly dim, projecting a calm ambience throughout. Wood is featured throughout the décor, with beautiful wooden tables, high ceilings and faded walls. Chophouse has a capacity of more than 200, with tables and booths spread across two levels, plus a bar area and outdoor seating. To start, the steak tartare with waffle chips was one of the highlights of the evening. The steak collapses under the fork and is a delight with the crunchy chips. There's a casual spin on decadence with the crab toast, served with crème fraîche and lemon, or the exceedingly rich bone marrow with cornichons, pickled eshallot and sourdough. Although there's plenty of variety on the menu, Chophouse prides itself on its 'meat and chops'. It's not so much for meat lovers, but more for those who appreciate quality produce. The MB7+ wagyu striploin is 300g of the finest beef from Rangers Valley, NSW. Chophouse's chefs have treated the cut, five on the marble score, with the upmost respect. If you're hankering for some meat but don't feel like beef, the pan-roasted John Dory filet with spinach and raisin burnt butter is a delicious alternative, while the cheeseburger is more than just a crowd pleaser, with pickles, chutney and mustard. Make it a double if you're feeling brave. With the desserts, give the rhubarb and custard brulee a go or a delicious pineapple fritter with rum caramel and coconut sorbet. Having heard about Chophouse as being a premier steakhouse in Sydney, it's really not just a one-trick pony. Impeccable service, the finest produce and meals you will keep coming back for. You'll never look at a steak the same way again. Appears in: Where to Find the Best Steaks in Sydney
Located on Woolloomooloo Finger Wharf, Kingsleys specialises in classic Australian dining — using premium, locally sourced steak, seafood and wine. With a charcoal oven in the kitchen, dry-aged ribeye on the bone, WA octopus and MB9+ wagyu bavette are cooked faster, juicier and with a smoky charcoal flavour. The menu also champions seafood fresh from the market. There is mud crab and Moreton Bay bugs grilled with house chilli XO sauce, wood-fried rock lobster and Humpty Doo barramundi. Bibs are provided to keep you looking fresh. The banquet menu will get groups of ten or more dining on three courses, letting you sample entrees like locally caught fried calamari, a tasting board of steak, humpty doo barramundi, sides and a cheeky dessert—think dark chocolate custard and a duo of Australian cheese. The food is complemented by an extensive list of local and international wines, and a selection of signature cocktails. Appears in: Where to Find the Best Steak in Sydney
Mexican cuisine has been flourishing in the spotlight lately, with the likes of MAIZ, El Primo Sanchez and Ricos Tacos cementing their status as Sydney staples and new openings such as Gitano, The Happy Mexican and Cancun Boat Club fuelling further excitement. Joining the ranks of newbies slinging quality south-of-the-border fare is Comedor, Australia Street's new restaurant, which celebrates community through food. This modern diner in a converted warehouse spotlights modernised Mexican dishes, with Head Chef Alejandro Huerta (ex-El Primo Sanchez, Chica Bonita, No.92) and Venue Manager Kieran Took (ex-Tio's Cerveceria, Big Poppa's) at the helm. "I want to make sure Comedor is seen as a place where you go to have a great time and experience new flavours," Huerta explains. "I'm looking forward to being able to really show who I am and what I'm passionate about." [caption id="attachment_965179" align="alignnone" width="1920"] (L–R) Kieran Took and Alejandro Huerta[/caption] The 100-year-old building where the restaurant is housed is owned by Newtown local Walter Shellshear, who shares a mutual appreciation for the culture and food of Mexico with the duo behind the venue. The vision to create a sense of connection and community through food is one that's been realised by all three, whose collaborative efforts have created an inviting and relaxed dining space for guests to enjoy. "I love my culture and Mexican food, but I don't like doing the same thing everyone else is doing," said Huerta. Huerta's ethos shapes the menu, which showcases the modern techniques he picked up working at some of the very best restaurants in the world, Noma in Copenhagen and Pujol in Mexico City, blended with traditional elements that pay homage to his heritage and carry the comfort of a home-cooked meal. The share-focused set menu includes smaller plates like a kingfish tostada with nduja, pineapple and spring onion and scallops coated in a corn miso vinaigrette and notes of wattleseed and saltbush. For heftier options, you can dig into a mushroom-glazed steak served with enoki and XO sauce, Murray cod in a honey-infused fermented black bean sauce or a pipis-starring linguine finished with chilpachole butter and nasturtium. Rounding out the menu are desserts like a persimmon and manchego tart or chocoflan topped with dulce de leche. The dinner tasting menu will set you back a quite reasonable $79 — you can also add on an agave or wine pairing for an additional $65 — but lunch is just as good a deal, with a weekly-rotating three-course chef's choice for $35. For drinks, expect an agave-forward selection. Took takes charge of the beverage offering, with hopes to encourage guests to explore spirits such as tequila, mezcal, sotol and raicilla. The cocktail menu stars a fresh and fruity raicilla-spiked strawberry spritz, a Tommy's-style marg with a rose almond and cardamon twist and a mezcal colada with honeycomb, coconut and pineapple for a sweet sip. You'll also be able to pair curated cocktails with each dish if you're feeling adventurous, while non-alc options include house-made sodas in a range of flavours. As for the fitout, the airy, natural light-filled space encourages casual dining by day while summoning a more sophisticated feel by night. Welsh + Major have led the charge on Comedor's design, drawing on artist Josef Albers' Mexico-inspired works to create an ambient earth-toned venue awash with vibrant reds, buttery yellows and deep blues. You'll also spot a 16-foot stone bar, as well as timber banquette seating lining the walls and a huge communal dining table, perfect for a slice of community paired with overlapping conversations and thought-provoking cuisine. Images: Dexter Kim
Having run The Newport since March 2016, Merivale decided it was about time to add something new to the sprawling northern beaches venue. And so, in early 2018, it opened Bert's, a brasserie and bar brimming with oysters and lobster. As we've come to expect from Merivale, Bert's hasn't done anything by halves. Getting its inspiration from the 1930s — when hotel dining rooms were grand destinations — the restaurant is an extravaganza of colour and elaborate furnishings, with an open kitchen as its centrepiece. The menu aims to transport you to a fancy European seaside resort. Look out for a dedicated raw bar crowded with oysters, mud crab and brioche fingers, and a larder loaded with charcuterie and salads. Among the decadent mains are lobster (straight from the tank, mind you), a few steaks and delicious king prawns in brown butter and smoked chilli. [caption id="attachment_890315" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Steven Woodburn[/caption] Walking in, you won't be able to miss the cellar of several hundred wines. Its contents include a selection of European drops, an array of rose, plenty of Aussie classics and a bunch of left-field bottles from creative labels. Meanwhile, the cocktail team is hard at work mixing new versions of old classics using seasonal produce. Needless to say, Bert's comes with gob-smacking views, of both The Newport's expansive outdoor area and stunning sparkling Pittwater.
This beautiful piece by Aboriginal playwright Nathan Maynard — his first full-length play— will move you to both tears and laughter. Performed by an all-Indigenous cast, the play takes us into the lives of the Duncan family on Dog Island in the Bass Strait. Set during the six-week muttonbird harvest season, the play deftly explores the enduring themes of family and belonging. The Season will be performed seven times at the Sydney Opera House, taking place from January 10 to 15. This is a world premiere show at Sydney Festival 2017. Check out more world firsts coming to the festival over here.
With the launch of a brand new Japanese-style menu, The Rook Rooftop is transforming into a cherry blossom garden for the season. Inspired by the Japanese tradition of hanami, which translates to 'seeing flowers,' The Rook has launched a dining experience that is aesthetically pleasing all around. As you walk through its doors, you'll be immersed in a world of pastel pink, artful cocktails and funky dishes — all while being surrounded by wonderful views of Sydney's CBD. Some must-try bites include its loaded gyoza, served with furikake, tonkatsu sauce, kewpie and bonito flakes ($17), and the fried chicken burger, which comes with golden curry mayo and lettuce ($22). The Rook is also offering a bottomless dumpling special on Saturdays from June 6. For $30 (or $59 with bottomless tap beers and wine), you can eat as many dumplings as your heart desires for two hours. Sittings are at 11.30am and 2pm on Saturday and 12pm and 2pm on Sunday. Images: Jasper Ave
Young Henrys is the household name of Sydney craft breweries, an impressive feat for the staunchly independent brew house that has been operating for over a decade. These guys went from being one of Sydney's first in craft to a nationally celebrated company — and they've somehow managed this feat without selling out. The YH brews aren't only well-represented across Sydney's craft brew pubs but are a regular facet of the beer scene across the country — including heaps of unassuming pubs that otherwise only have the likes of Tooheys and Carlton on draught. From launching their very own festival to their endless artistic collaborations to sponsoring events like NourishTalks, Young Henrys just seems to be everywhere these days. The story has worked out well for the Newtowners, who almost set up shop in Surry Hills. Luckily, the space in Newtown saved Young Henrys from the lockout laws and put them smack dab in the middle of an incredibly creative community. Part brewery, part gallery space, the tasting bar is a super laidback (but always busy) hangout where music blares and beer's a-flowing. Young Henrys' collaboration game also remains strong — think chef-inspired beers, restaurant collaborations, promoting band tours and community contests and events. A lot has changed over the years — from going solar-powered to successfully trying its hand at distilling. Young Henrys has now expanded to ten brewers and is launching a dedicated brewer's tank that will allow the team to try out their own recipes. The Newtonian masterminds haven't just limited themselves to beer — their cider and spirits game is strong as well, with their Noble Cut Gin awarded the Gold Medal from the World Spirit Awards. Now both brewery and distillery, YH plans to continue to develop in the spirits direction. Young Henrys has been a driving force across the craft beer scene and opened the gates for many of the newer guys. It may be local craft, but YH is a big player in the Australian beer industry as a whole and we can't wait to see what's next. Images: Marissa Ciampi. Appears in: The Best Sydney Brewery Bars for 2023
How good at Pictionary would Grimes be? Would Mac Demarco's sketches found in an art gallery? How would Future Islands go in a life drawing class? Sydney's FBi Radio intended to find out, by inviting a list of over 30 musicians to try their hand at a handdrawn masterpiece. Bringing back their wildly successful 'Brush With Fame' art auction, FBi asked a serious banquet of bands, rappers, ARIA-nominees, folksters, singers and beatmakers to create drawings on canvas especially for the station, ready for auction from Thursday 10 March (9pm AEDT) until Sunday 20 March (9pm AEDT). All proceeds raise funds for the independent, not-for-profit, top notch station. Kudos to FBi for one of the best group show lineups around, y'ready? You (YOU) can own a handdrawn work by these guys. FULL ARTIST LIST: Alabama Shakes Albert Hammond Jr (The Strokes) Alison Wonderland Benjamin Booker Best Coast Cosmo’s Midnight Courtney Barnett DIIV Django Django Dune Rats Elliphant & MØ Future Islands Grimes Hot Chip The Internet Little Simz Mac Demarco Matt Huynh Metz Neneh Cherry Parquet Courts Perfect Pussy Perfume Genius Peter Bibby Purity Ring The Rubens Run The Jewels* Rustie Thundercat Total Giovanni TV On The Radio Tycho Vic Mensa * Two individual canvases by Killer Mike and El-P respectively, sold together All works are on display over here. The auction will run on eBay from Thursday 10 March (9pm AEDT) until Sunday 20 March (9pm AEDT). Each piece comes complete with a Certificate of Authenticity from FBi. Here's a couple of our favourites in the bunch, that you'll have to furiously outbid us on.
We're accustomed to the idea that every slice of pizza worth its weight in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles requires decent lashings of mozzarella. Which is why the fact that famed Newtown pizzeria Gigi is vegan might come as a shock to Sydney pizza fans. According to owner Marco Matino, the tradition of the Neapolitan woodfired pizza "is an art form which will always be relevant no matter how times change". That said, they decided to kick their double smoked ham and stringy mozzarella to the curb years ago in favour of a new plant-based menu that is both sustainable and ethical, with fresh, locally grown produce and key ingredients imported from Italy. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] "Marinara pizzas [with just tomato, garlic and oil] were the first served in Naples for over forty years before the Margherita was introduced," says Marco. Though that may be the case, we can safely say that, ever since some genius put some cheese on one of those saucy bases, we've never looked back. The pizza pros at Gigi Pizzeria have maintained the integrity of their quality woodfired dough with its slightly crispy, slightly chewy bite. It's the perfect pizza base. Toppings are mostly simple — like the aforementioned Marinara pizza — but there are a few more creative options too. The Melanzane sports tomatoes with tree nut ricotta, frilled eggplant, basil salsa and olive oil while classic numbers like the Patate — with thinly sliced potato seasoned with garlic and rosemary — work really well, especially with the additional black truffle pate. Since becoming a vegan-only joint, Gigi's popularity has soared, and it's not uncommon to see a massive line snaking along King Street on a Friday or Saturday night. Top image: Destination NSW Appears in: Where to Find the Best Pizza in Sydney for 2023
Sydney's first vegan fritterie and chai bar, its culinary spread will be familiar to fans of the subcontinent's cuisine, obviously. But the cafe's name and setup also nods to Delhi — specifically, to the city's street stalls dotted beneath underpasses. Flyover Fritterie & Chai Bar co-founder Gunjan Aylawadi grew up in Delhi, so you can expect authenticity, especially where its dishes are concerned. The tiny spot boasts a sizeable menu of vegan dishes, best washed down with some of the banging cocktails, beer and wine on offer. Traditional pakora fritters are the main attraction atFlyover Fritterie, not only made with a crunch — and available gluten-free — but served with homemade tamarind chutney using Aylawadi's grandmother's recipe. Just what vegetables are involved changes according to what's in season; however they're always combined with chickpea flour, spices and herbs, then placed in a cone. If you'd like your fritters in other dishes, you can tuck into an Indian lime daal khichri with lentils, basmati rive, quinoa, black chickpeas and optional peanut chutney or a aloo tikki burger with beetroot, mint and seasonal fritters. There's also a sweets menu with a cake of the week and a sea salt besan ladoo. Vegans are very well taken care of at this Sydney restaurant.
Were it not for a fearless, feisty adventurer by the name of Marie Byles, Bouddi National Park wouldn't exist. As a kid growing up in Palm Beach in the 1900s, she spent hours and hours gazing across the Hawkesbury River towards the Central Coast. As an adult, she ventured across the water whenever she could, to walk, camp, swim and write. By 1930 (shortly after becoming New South Wales's first practising female solicitor), she'd decided the area should belong to the public forever. And, after five years of fierce, relentless campaigning, she made it happen. Thanks to Byles, Bouddi looks pretty similar to us to the way it did to her. Its 3790 glorious acres still stretch along the Central Coast's southeast corner. Among them are more than 100 important Aboriginal sites, secret sandy beaches, dizzying cliffs, waterfalls, patches of rainforest, walks and mountain bike trails. At either end lie the ultra-relaxed, tree-filled villages of Copacabana in the north and Killcare in the south. SEE AND DO For a thorough exploration, slap on some sunscreen and take on the Bouddi Coastal Trail. This 8km hike runs the length of the park, sticking to the coast most of the time. You'll pass lookouts and beaches and, if you're not too raucous, meet wildlife of all kinds. Don't have the time — or inclination — for such an enormous journey? You can always squeeze in a briefer stroll. One of Bouddi's most popular short walks is the Maitland Bay Track, which begins at Maitland Bay Information Centre (cnr, Maitland Bay Drive and The Scenic Rd, Killcare Heights; (02) 4320 4200). It's a 1.5km wind through sandstone and rainforest to beautiful Maitland Bay. Take your snorkelling gear — Bouddi has a 300-hectare marine extension, so you'll catch plenty of underwater action — and if the tide's low, tiptoe around the PS Maitland, shipwrecked in 1898 in the bay's eastern corner. On your return journey, there's every chance you'll notice the trail seeming steeper than it did on your way down. If you're not in top form, travel slow or take the gentler, 3km route to Putty Beach — another excellent beach for swimming. Just don't forget to organise a ride back to your car. Some of Bouddi's indigenous history can be explored at Daley's Point. It's reached by an easy, 1.7km-long stroll along a ridge. The views over Brisbane Water are brilliant and inside Milligans — also known as Fish Hook Shelter — you'll find a series of ancient sandstone engravings. Alternatively, go day tripping with your mountain bike and conquer the Bouddi Ridge Explorer, a 10 km loop around the park's north-western section. Count on cracking views and keep an eye out for swamp wallabies and echidnas. Inexperienced riders might want to limit themselves to one or two easy sections, like the 5km Strom Loop. If you're keen to stay the night, there are three campgrounds in Bouddi National Park. The biggest is Putty Beach, with 20 spots, while Tallow Beach and Little Beach have six each. It's definitely a good idea to book in advance. EAT AND DRINK When you're ready to refuel between outdoor escapades, drop by Copacabana or Killcare. Copacabana is a 2,700-person settlement on mighty Allagai Bay. For breakfast or lunch right on the beach, there's Bar Copa. It's a casual kiosk operating out of the northern end of the Copacabana SLSC (220 Delmonte Place, Copacabana; Wed-Mon, 8am-3pm). The coffee comes from the Byron Bay Coffee Company and the menu specialises in tasty, wholesome, goodness, covering both classics and surprises, from salted caramel hot chocolate to vegan burgers filled with homemade patties, featuring exotic flavours like carrot and coconut. Just across the road, sheltered by a Norfolk Island pine, is Allagai Bay Cafe (2/204 Delmonte Place, Copacabana; Sun-Thu, 7am-3pm; Fri-Sat, 7am-3pm and from 6pm;(02) 4382 6120), serving up inventive dishes, which change according to the availability of quality produce. Current examples include scallops with chorizo and pea puree; salt and pepper soft shell crab; and deconstructed cheesecake with nutella, berries and marshmallow. Visit on a Sunday afternoon to score some live acoustic sessions with your meal. For beachside dining in Killcare, drop into Horizons, a cafe and tapas bar occupying the first floor of the SLSC. The focus is on simple, hearty fare done well. Lunch dishes are big on fresh seafood — think prawn risotto with tarragon, peas and parmesan; and grilled barramundi with French beans, crispy prosciutto, almonds, mint and lemon. If you're treating yourself to a fancy, schmancy day out, make a booking at Manfredi at Bells Restaurant (Fri-Sun, lunch and dinner; Mon-Thu, dinner only; 107 The Scenic Road, Killcare Heights; (02) 4349 7000). Manfredi's hung onto its chef's hat since 2008, so you're pretty much guaranteed a top-shelf feast. Plus there's a strong commitment to sustainability and ethical farming: the 500-square metre kitchen garden supplies more than 15 percent of produce, roaming hens provide free-range eggs and there are hives onsite. And, if you're feeling worn out after a day's adventuring, this is the perfect place for a luxurious overnighter. GETTING THERE AND AWAY Copacabana and Bouddi National Park are both a 1.5-hour drive north of the Sydney CBD. You can also catch a ferry from Palm Beach to Wagstaffe (near the park's southern end), but your adventures will be limited to what you can cover comfortably on foot. Image: Dollar Photo Club, FotoSleuth (Flickr), Allagai Bay Cafe.
