The last bastion of the phone-free two hours, the theatre, might be about to crumble. Melbourne's Malthouse Theatre this week announced that they'll be trialling special seating for social media users, internationally dubbed 'tweet seats', at select shows. Carlton indie theatre La Mama is already all over it, having set aside four tweet seats per show for their upcoming work RAT, and they're even free. Considering we've been live tweeting everything else — from films to talks, concerts and dinners — is the distinction around theatre an artificial one that's been destined to fall away? And is there any benefit to be gained from allowing us to whip out our phones mid-show? The Malthouse announcement has met with some backlash, even on Twitter. Popular opinion is, if you're live tweeting a performance, you're living the kind of hollowed-out half-life that means you may as well stay home and plug into the Matrix. But this is a personal value judgement and not a reason, practically or conceptually, against allowing others to make Twitter a part of their theatre experience. I struggle to express coherent thoughts for half an hour after a film or movie, let alone have any desire to do so while it unfolds and trade away the sense of immersion that comes with live performance. But that's just me, and that's just the shows I've seen. How about a small show built to feed off real-time responses? How about a big, bombastic opera that can't count on the nosebleed section being highly engaged? The LA Times technology blog attributes the first instance of live theatre tweeting to a 2009 staging of Gilbert and Sullivan's HMS Pinafore in Kansas — and it was a more constructive affair than you might assume. Audience members in the 100 special seats of the final performance could access tweets from the show's artistic director about the production, scenery and story unfurling on stage while tweeting their own questions and comments. It was an aid to their enjoyment of the piece, not unlike an audio tour of an art exhibit. Or the special features on a DVD. Or a post-show Q&A, during the show. It's since become common in the US and UK, mainly for ballets, operas and symphony concerts. With conditions tightly controlled — you don't want to distract the real-life cast and crew who need darkness to do their jobs properly — and the agreement of the individual creative team, theatre might continue to become a road more tweeted. But then there's this argument from Alex Roe, artistic director of New York's Metropolitan Playhouse, perhaps the most focused takedown of how your tweeting might affect other people's enjoyment: "Part of the whole theatrical experience is the thought of being present in the company of the rest of the audience and the actors," Roe said to NPR. "To me, the thought of encouraging people to tweet during a performance is necessarily a violation of that agreement." That might just be the tweet-seat deal-breaker.
Embedding sustainable practices in the hospitality industry is a quest many a bar, cafe, eatery and associated organisation has taken up, spanning bans on straws, an attempt to recycle takeaway coffee cups, rewards for carpooling customers and more. One Japanese watering hole has taken the concept and not only run with it, but built their entire establishment out of it. Yes, the Kamikatz Public House is made out of 100% recycled rubbish. From the windows and walls to the furniture found inside, everything in this pub, brewery and sundries store would probably be considered trash in any other town. You'll find the environmentally conscious structure in the town of Kamikatsu, which is committed to not only reducing their wastage, but eliminating it — attaining an 80% recycling rate, and sorting their waste into 34 categories, for starters. Of course, when you fashion a dwelling with in such an eco-friendly manner, you want everyone to know about it, which is why Kamikatz Public House features an eight-metre-high wall of windows, all sourced from abandoned homes. You'll also find discarded tiles used as flooring, a chandelier made out of bottles, and newspapers doubling as wallpaper. Other design elements, such as an elevated ceiling and double-layered window fittings, are designed to increase ventilation and insulation respectively. No wonder the building won World Architecture News' Sustainable Buildings Award for 2016. As well as a cute pub to put on your must-visit list if you're ever in the vicinity of Tokushima prefecture on Japan's Shikoku Island, it's also great motivation to think about more creative ways to recycle. Images: Hiroshi Nakamura & NAP. Via: Inhabitat.
As sunny days get longer and more frequent, our minds are turning to refreshing drinks, rooftop bars and watery vistas. Over the past few months, Sydney has scored quite a few new sky-facing spaces, including the foliage-heavy Manly Greenhouse, Erskineville's pink frilly umbrella-dotted Slims Rooftop and Erskineville's art deco Imperial Up. Now, Westfield Sydney is joining the shenanigans, with the announcement of not one, but two new rooftop venues. In 2019, inner-city workers and shoppers will be able to slip upstairs to feast on Middle Eastern and Cantonese fare, while soaking up panoramic views. The first of the two is Babylon, a Middle Eastern-inspired venue with a whopping 800 capacity. Among its spaces are a 200-seater restaurant, two expansive bars and a woodfired kitchen. The second is Duck & Rice, a 400-seater contemporary Cantonese restaurant specialising in dishes from regional China, with an atmosphere reminiscent of 1920s Shanghai. Both restaurants will have big outdoor dining spaces. Behind the multi-faceted design is Brisbane-based architect firm Hogg and Lamb. The Mantle Group Hospitality (MGH), has leased the rooftop and owns both Babylon and Duck & Rice. Having been busy in Brisbane for nearly 40 years, it moved into Sydney in May 2018 with the opening of The Squire's Landing at the Overseas Passenger Terminal in The Rocks. Babylon and Duck & Rice are both slated for completion in early 2019.
If you're thirty-plus (either chronologically, or in terms of your musical tastes) and finding triple j increasingly unsuitable to your aural palette, then you're probably going to love the ABC's latest move. Yesterday afternoon, the broadcaster announced that, as of 5pm, digital music channel Dig had come under triple j's management. Essentially, the plan is to revamp Dig as a 'triple j for over-thirties'. In other words, the program will be shaped by the types of artists that originally informed the triple j ethos. Think Tex Perkins, Eskimo Joe, Nick Cave and their musical progeny. About 75 percent of the playlist will be comprised of new music (triple j's is about 90 percent that way) and the other 25 percent will be made up of classics familiar to '70s and '80s babies. Each week, there'll be a minimum of four pre-recorded, guest-programmed segments. Anticipated curators include Billy Bragg, Sarah Blasko, Adalita, Missy Higgins, Bernard Fanning, Tex Perkins, David Bridie, Eskimo Joe, Clare Bowditch and Moby. During the next six months, Dig is asking listeners to let the station know exactly what they want to hear, and how they want it presented. The channel will be officially launched in its new format in April 2014. "Over the last few years, there have been many voices calling out for a station like this," commented Dig Music's content director Meagan Loader, "and the input of those voices during this initial stage is hugely valuable. We are so excited to be able to evolve with our listeners and create something truly unique." Dig Music is available online at www.digmusic.net.au, on mobile phones via the ABC Radio App, and through both digital radio and television.
Whether you're a seasoned green thumb with a blooming garden or a gardening novice with only a balcony to work with, get all your gardening needs met at That Plant Shop in Rozelle. Operated by plant whisperer Edwina, affectionately known as 'That Plant Lady', the shop stocks an extensive collection of rare and common indoor and outdoor plants — hand-selected by Edwina. Whether you're looking for something specific or just looking for advice, like which soil works best for each plant or watering dos and don'ts =, That Plant Shop is the place to be. Check out the Saturday workshops held in-store for potting and terrarium building. Not limited to plants, this plant nursery also has a range of homewares, pots and products to ensure your plants thrive. If you can't make it into the store, you can also shop online on the website.
If eating your way through plenty of creative and tasty desserts is your current pandemic coping strategy, Gelato Messina has been more than willing to help over the past few months. This year alone, it has released cookie pies in choc chip, red velvet, choc-hazelnut, and peanut butter and jelly varieties; 40 of its best flavours; and full tubs of Iced VoVo gelato. Messina's own take on the classic Viennetta ice cream cake and a gelato based on Italy's famed cremino dessert. Oh, and it even whipped up a batch of sticky lamington-scroll hybrids as well. For Messina's next tastebud-tempter, it's doing what it has always done best: turning one of your favourite non-ice cream foods into gelato, then giving it a twist. This time around, that means a new take on its beloved cereal-inspired 'Just Like a Chocolate Milkshake' flavour. It still features Coco Pops, obviously, but this batch is all about white chocolate. Naturally, it's called 'Just Like a White Chocolate Milkshake'. It's made with Messina jersey milk and white chocolate Coco Pops, with the latter soaked in the former to get things rolling. From there, the cereal and milk are churned into fresh gelato, which is then layered with clusters of more white chocolate Coco Pops. As well as milk, cereal and white chocolate, you can expect to taste caramel and marshmallow notes, too. Messina's special desserts and flavours are always a limited affair, with this one on offer for a week from Tuesday, September 1. You can pick it up in-store or get it delivered via Deliveroo. [caption id="attachment_741473" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Katrina James[/caption] If you're in Melbourne, remember that you can only venture to shops within five kilometres of your house — and only once a day — to get essentials, including food. Gelato Messina's 'Just Like a White Chocolate Milkshake' flavour will be available for a week from Tuesday, September 1, in-store and via Deliveroo — keep an eye on the Messina website for further details.
Visiting the Louvre art gallery in Paris is an exciting experience. Battling the crowds to get a glance of Venus de Milo is exciting. Copping an elbow to the face as you attempt to take a selfie with the Mona Lisa is even kinda exciting. But, imagine, if you could spend an entire night inside the Louvre, exploring the halls — and taking many many selfies with Mona Lisa — without any other tourists around. A total dream. And one that could become a reality, thanks to Airbnb. Yep, the company that lets you stay for cheap in other people's homes is giving away a night at the Louvre for you and a mate (date, mum, whoever). As well as spending the night under the iconic glass pyramid, you'll be given a Renaissance-inspired cocktail to toast with Mona — while relaxing on a luxe Parisian lounge and listening to French vinyl records, of course — enjoy an extravagant feast in a pop-up dining room next to Venus de Milo, and watch an acoustic concert inside Napoleon III's lavish apartment. Pick your jaw up off the ground and enter the competition, now. Well, before April 12. This crazy once-in-a-lifetime experience is part of AirBnB's Night At series, where it gifts sleepovers at really over-the-top spots. Previous sleepovers have been held on the Chicago Bulls basketball court, at the top of an Olympic ski jump, in a shark aquarium and on the Great Wall — the list goes on. To enter the competition, you need to answer the question "Why would you be the Mona Lisa's perfect guest?" in 800 characters or less before midnight on Friday, April 12 French time, which the morning of Saturday, April 13 AEDT. The sleepover will take place between April 28 and May 2 (the winner will win a total of three nights in Paris). To win a night at the Louvre head to the Airbnb website. Images: Julian Abrams.
The first Collector Store in Surry Hills has been drawing in curious weekend browsers for years thanks to its ever changing collection of fashion, accessories and homewares. The Sydney store now has three locations, including its largest space in Paddington. The Oxford Street boutique has an eclectic mix of clothing, candles and cushion covers like the other locations, but with more room to show off its furniture, kitchen and dining products than at the Barangaroo or Crown Street stores. You'll find BORNN's marble-effect enamel plates, Tom Dixon candles and decanters, and HK Living serving trays. There's also terrazzo coffee tables, woven light shades, and weaved outdoor dining chairs. And at the front of the store, there are rails of menswear by Mr Simple (think linen shorts and Hawaiian-inspired shirts) and women's printed dresses by Coster Copenhagen. Though most of the clothing sits above the $100 mark, there are gifts within the $40–60 bracket, too, like Missoni towels, Leif hand wash and Scotch & Soda leather wallets, as well as a locally made range of Gascoigne & King candles and diffusers. Images: Cassandra Hannagan
Never fear: the bones of this grungy pub are still the same. From the outside, it looks like the good ol' Abercrombie. Inside, there's still plenty of character but the tartan carpet is clean, the tiled walls have been nicely restored and there are quirky little touches everywhere. Homely pictures cover the walls, knick knacks that you might find in a crazy hip granny’s house hang above the bar, and there's disco lights all over the place. It’s clearly designed for the uni crowd, with prices to match, and it’s a lot of fun in here. The fun continues with the food and a crazy drinks list - look out for Camel Toe and MacGyver. As is the trend, Abercrombie specialises in comfort food meets greasy hangover, with a touch of Mexican. And there's plenty of good matches to be made, particularly with the designed-for-drinking grits menu. Try the Scotch Egg Slider ($6) with a Coopers Lagerita ($13), Chorizo and Jalapeno Tacos ($5.50) with a Berocca Colada ($13) and/or a Mac N Cheese Ball ($12) with Rave Juice ($13). Rave Juice, you say? That's Red Bull and Agwa in a glad bag, with glow stick and straw. Yes, really. The uni theme also extends into the mains. Pick from a Philly Cheese Steak ($17) or Schnitzel with Bolognaise ($16) and, for dessert, it's hard to go past a Deep Fried Golden Gaytime ($7). The Abercrombie is the uni bar we all wanted - it might even tempt you to re-enrol. Click here for full review and details
Joining beloved venues XOPP and Chase Kojima's Simulation Senpai on the top floor of Darling Exchange, Haidilao Hotpot has opened an expansive new restaurant, throwing its hat in the ring of Darling Square's dining precinct. The 200-seat venue offers traditional hotpot from midday seven days a week. Guests choose up to four soup bases for their hotpot with bases like spicy oil, mushroom, tomato and chicken all on offer. From there, diners can mix-and-match from the menu which is divided into meat, seafood, beans and noodles, vegetables and snacks. Highlights of the meat menu include wagyu beef M8, XO tongue, pork kidneys and marbled pork belly. Be sure to order the 'dancing noodles' at some point in the meal, where staff will hand-stretch them in front of you before dropping them into your hotpot. Pre-meal fruit and self-serve condiment bars featuring house-made sesame paste and a variety of oils and sauces are on hand to complete your meal, while added comforts like complimentary hair ties and plush toys to accompany solo diners are all provided to ensure you have the perfect hotpot experience. Those waiting for a table can also be treated to a complimentary manicure, subject to availability, so waiting has never been easier. Originating in China, Haidilao is an international restaurant group with venues across Sydney, Australia and the world. Walk-ins are available but if you want to ensure your spot, you can book by calling the restaurant on 02 7252 3500. Haidilao Hotpot is located at Level 5, The Exchange Darling Square, 1 Little Pier Street, Haymarket. It's open from midday with last orders at 8.30pm.
If the date of January 26 finds you looking for a thoughtful way to reflect on the impact of Australia's colonisation on its First Nations people, you should join the folks from Sydney Festival the evening prior. For the sixth year in a row, the festival will be running a vigil at Barangaroo Reserve. Unlike previous years, the 2024 iteration will span 45 minutes from 8.30pm, in place of the overnight ceremony that's taken place in years gone by. This year, the event is titled Vigil: The Future and will be all about hope and empowering young voices, giving them a platform to share their stories and art. The ceremony will feature a large-scale public installation and a performance from a choir of young First Nations singers. The event is free and registration is not required this year. If you can't make it in person, the festival is also streaming Vigil: The Future online as part of Sydney Festival's AT HOME digital program.
Imagine sitting under the gentle glow of candlelight, enjoying a live performance of Coldplay's "Sky Full of Stars." Thanks to The Concert by Candlelight series, this could soon be true. Returning for its fourth year, the series will host The Music of Coldplay by Candlelight across three locations, Sydney, Perth and the Gold Coast. While it may not be the band itself, world-class vocalists and a live band from London's West End will honour legends Chris Martin, Jonny Buckland, Guy Berryman, and Will Champion with powerful performances. The performers will kick things off at 7.30pm Darling Harbour Theatre at ICC Sydney on Saturday, September 13. The show will take over The Star Theatre on the Gold Coast on Friday, September 19, before making the journey west to Perth's Convention and Exhibition Centre on Saturday, September 27. Given that Coldplay visited fans down under relatively recently in 2024, it's unlikely they'll be gracing us with their presence anytime soon. So, The Music of Coldplay by Candelight may be the closest thing to the real deal Aussies can get, at least for a while. Each concert is a one-night-only event, and they're coming up faster than you think. So get in quick; tickets are likely to sell out fast. The Music of Coldplay by Candlelight will be held in September in Sydney, Perth, and the Gold Coast. Performances start at 7.30pm. For more information or to book tickets, visit the website. Images: Supplied.
Greater Western Sydney has a lot of stuff going on, but, unfortunately for more western-anchored Sydneysiders, a smorgasbord of new fancy burger pop-ups is not one of them. Well, until now. Hashtag Burgers are swooping in to the rescue and bringing Dee Why Hotel's renowned burgers to Campbelltown's Orangeville Meat Co. on Friday, March 18. For one night triumphant night you won’t have to trek your weary bones into the city just to feel the sweet caress of a succulent burg betwixt your chompers. Huzzah! Brad Johnson is the evil genius and head chef behind the epic Dee Why burgers that are so good the only appropriate response is an awed Cheesus Christ. He's designed a burger especially for the event featuring an Orangeville Meat Co. wagyu patty, premium Bolognese sauce, double American cheddar, jalapeños, iceberg lettuce, a twice-fried hash brown, Wild West sauce, pickles and a Japanese milk bun with a side of fries. Insert emoji that represents crying with happiness and food anticipation. And that’s not even the end of it. The event will be DJed and Sydney Brewery will be there with a mobile bar packed full with beers and ciders. Orangeville Meat Co. are even planning on serving up a bourbon, maple and vanilla milkshake topped with cream, bacon salt, crisp pancetta and a mini maple bacon donut. Prepare your bibs, friends, it’s about to get messy up in here. The event is ticketed, and you'll have to shell out $22.60 for the Westside Burger and a side of fries in advance. The 7pm and and 8pm sessions are already sold out, so we suggest getting in quick if you want to nab a ticket for the 6pm sitting. The Dee Why Hotel Hashtag Burgers pop-up will be at Orangeville Meat Co., 2/11 Rodeo Road, Gregory Hills, Narellan on Friday, March 18. For more info, visit the Facebook event.
In the initial two episodes of Scenes From a Marriage, Mira (Jessica Chastain, IT: Chapter Two) and Jonathan (Oscar Isaac, Star Wars: Episode IX — The Rise of Skywalker) brush their teeth in front of their ensuite mirror. It's an everyday task in a familiar place, spanning something we all do in a space we all use, but this powerful five-part HBO miniseries turns these two scenes into a complex snapshot of its central couple. It takes not just skill but feeling and understanding to turn such a mundane activity into a must-see; however, that's this weighty show's remit. Scenes From a Marriage gets viewers engrossed in cleaning teeth because it's ordinary, and because everything within its frames fits the same description. Its central relationship careens from happy to heartbroken, comfortable to distraught, and assured to messy, but it also charts a path that countless others have before it. When they first pick up their toothbrushes, Mira and Jonathan attend to their dental hygiene side by side. They chat between foamy mouthfuls. They're relaxed. They've had an unusual day, after talking to a researcher about their nuptials and then hosting a tumultuous dinner with friends, but they're settled in their usual regime. Seconds afterwards, they'll discuss significant news, but they approach that, too, with a sense of unthinking security. But just one episode later, when they brush again, everything has changed. Mira returns from a work trip to share a bombshell revelation, Jonathan doesn't take it well, and he stands back and stares at they each clean. She can't meet his eyes. He won't look away. Their tension, pain and sorrow fills the entire room, as does their uncertainty — and it's a case of two moments, two people, two vastly different pictures of their relationship. Dedicating each episode to a significant day over the course of several years — hairstyles change, and the couple's daughter ages (primarily off-screen) — Scenes From a Marriage is filled with these routine moments. It's a show about patterns, cycles and echoes, how they ripple through relationships and, when broken or changed, how their absence is felt. Much of the series takes place in the same domestic space, too, as the pair rove around the house they've made their home. So, viewers see the duo walk through the same rooms, sit in the same chairs and recline in the same bed. They have variations of the same discussion over and over as well. Every romance is an ongoing conversation that loops, sprawls and repeats, but Scenes From a Marriage pushes this notion to the fore. Mira and Jonathan are always talking, in some way, even when they're not. Their dialogue continues whether it seems like it's just another evening in the bathroom, or it's a terse morning after everything has disintegrated — and as a whirlwind of love, sex, heartbreak and chaos whips through their relationship again and again. It shouldn't be easy, peering into a romance as its bliss fades, and stepping into its ongoing conversation. That idea isn't Scenes From a Marriage's alone, and it wasn't new in 1973, when iconic film director Ingmar Bergman ran with it in his Swedish TV miniseries of the same name. But as penned and helmed here by The Affair's Hagai Levi, HBO's take on the concept turns the familiar and complex into the raw and the riveting. It breaks a relationship down into pivotal moments to strip away the blissful front that couples build for themselves, and the image they project to the world, and it refuses to look away as things turn difficult. Sketching out anything this complicated via just a few scenes is a gimmick, obviously, as the series even nods to in opening scenes that follow Chastain and Isaac getting into character. Still, in the right hands, and with the right tale of a marriage's minutiae, it's also devastating and powerful. Scenes From a Marriage circa 2021 is shot and scored to ramp up that intensity, that simmering uncertainty, that seesawing between two extremes. Cinematographer Andrij Parekh, a veteran of Blue Valentine and its similarly haunting exploration of a romance in decline, prowls carefully and patiently around comfortable spaces adorned in neutral tones — places The White Lotus' characters might've gone home to post-Hawaii — but lets both light and darkness visually clash and compete for attention. Composers Evgueni Galperine and Sacha Galperine craft a score that also rides an emotional rollercoaster, setting the tone as precisely as they previously did with fellow HBO miniseries The Undoing. Each element of Scenes From a Marriage is fine-tuned to amplify the highs, the lows, and the constant to-and-fro between them. That said, this tale of an ambitious tech industry executive, her ex-Orthodox Jewish philosophy professor husband and their fraying nuptials was always going to live and thrive via its two lead performances. Chastain and Isaac, welcome additions to any on-screen project, have played a married couple before. In fact, 2014's A Most Violent Year also saw them navigate a stormy union — and it, like its main duo, was exceptional. The pair certainly know how to project intimacy on the red carpet, as they did at the Venice Film Festival premiere of Scenes From a Marriage. They don't falter in the series itself, even with a concept that could've played like an acting exercise. Again, the conceit is highlighted in those opening seconds of the duo as themselves; however, as Chastain and Isaac walk across the set that swiftly becomes their Mira and Jonathan's home — doing so with masks and distancing, because this was shot during the pandemic — they also help viewers step into their characters with them. When the camera is rolling rather than flashing, Chastain and Isaac are both experts at unpacking someone's entire emotional journey in just their gaze and stance. Accordingly, when the series flickers from the pair as actors to the duo as Mira and Jonathan, it feels seamless even though the artifice is being called out. They take the plunge, the audience does with them, and we all explore what's happened after Scenes From a Marriage's protagonists did just that. On-screen, opposites attracted, then this pair combined their lives and marched forward towards the future, and now everyone weathers the fallout. Chastain and Isaac are also masterful at responding to each other, and at letting those reactions tell as much of the story as the dialogue they're speaking. It's been done before, and will be again — officially and in everything else that's taken cues from the original Swedish series — but here and now, this series works as grippingly and movingly as it does because of its stars. No one can look away as they brush their teeth, share long looks and fling all manner of words at each other. They don't want to themselves, and neither do we. Check out the trailer below: The first two episodes of Scenes From a Marriage are available to stream via Binge, with new instalments dropping weekly. Images: Jojo Whilden/HBO.
Need a way to keep cool over summer? Swap the beach for epic waterslides and huge inflatable pools at Australia's first mobile waterpark, Waterworld Central Sydney. The family-friendly affair will be taking over Moore Park's Entertainment Quarter for two months, so, as the mercury rises, you and your kids can get your thrills — and stay chilled. Race your mates on the multilane Epic Racer slide, go on an 80-metre water tubing ride or test your courage on the brand new Wave Slide. You can also splash about in one of the many enormous inflatable pools and see what it's like to walk on water by taking a spin on the giant zorb cylinder. Open daily from December 28 right through till January 26 (except New Year's Day), Waterworld Central will ensure you have plenty of outdoor aqua adventures this summer — no matter your age. Of course, there's the global pandemic to be mindful of, so pre-booking tickets is encouraged. Waterworld Central will be open daily from 10am–4pm from December 28–January 26, but will be closed New Year's Day. To pre-book your tickets, head here.
As social distancing has become our new way of life, Aussies are preparing to spend a solid chunk of the coming weeks at home, which means you're probably already busy scouting out bulk entertainment options to see you through. Well now, you can add a few audiobooks to that hit-list, thanks to the good folk at Audible. The online retailer is offering a bunch of its recorded books to download for free. And that's without locking you into its usual free trial period. The newly launched free collection of stories is primarily aimed at kids stuck at home during the outbreak (and of course, their parents), though it's also got a few literary classics tucked away in there as well. Among the books translated into six different languages, you'll find gems like Jane Eyre — narrated by UK actress Thandie Newton — Oscar Wilde's The Picture of Dorian Gray, Persuasion and Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, and Aldous Huxley's novel Brave New World. You might fancy diving into The Call of The Wild by Jack London, or even settling in with Mary Shelley's Frankenstein. Whatever your style, there's plenty of hours of entertainment amongst this lot. The stories are free to stream on your phone, tablet, desktop or laptop, and with no sign-up required, you can jump on and start listening straight away. The free Audible Stories are available now via the website.
Dinner and a show: it's a date night classic for a reason. But, sometimes, if it's last-minute or your wallet is feeling a little light, the 'and show' part of the equation can be a bit tricky to arrange. Thankfully, living in Sydney means you have around-the-clock access to one of the best free shows on earth: the beach. Whether it's a warm and sunny day or blisteringly cold, Sydney's beaches make for a great spot to get cosy with your special someone and watch the waves, surfers and sea life as the sun rises or sets. And, if you choose the latter time, you have the bonus of being able to include some takeaway food in the equation, too. So, we've ploughed through DoorDash's extensive list of restaurants, cafes and bars to determine the ideal eats for a cheeky beachside sesh with your date — or best mates.
For all of you who've been obsessing over the case of Steven Avery, you might now have the chance to get the answers you crave. Laura Ricciardi and Moira Demos, the filmmakers behind the addictive and highly frustrating Netflix true crime series Making a Murderer, have just been announced as a last minute addition to the Spectrum Now Festival talks program. The pair, whose ten-part series has become a cultural phenomenon since premiering on Netflix in December, will travel to Sydney for an hour-long interview and audience Q&A session with festival ambassador and The Weekly host Charlie Pickering. Set to take place at 7pm on Thursday, March 10, tickets for the event will cost $49.90 and go on sale on Wednesday, February 24 (or you can sign up to their newsletter to access the pre-sale one day earlier). If you've been living a nomadic lifestyle out in the bush for the past few months and thus haven't heard, Making a Murderer follows the infuriating case of Wisconsin native Steven Avery, who served 18 years in prison for a crime he did not commit, only to be arrested and tried for murder shortly after he was released. If you've got a spare ten hours, you can binge watch it on Netflix right now. Just don't expect to finish with your faith in humanity intact. "We always wanted Making a Murderer to start a dialogue around important issues in our criminal justice system," say directors Ricciardi and Demos. "We are thrilled that so many people all over the world are responding to the concept of fairness and equality, and we can’t wait to come to Australia to continue this discussion." Making a Murderer: In Conversation with Charlie Pickering will take place at 7pm on Thursday, March 10 at The Star Event Centre as part of Spectrum Now Festival 2016. For more information and to buy tickets, visit their website.
Both Bret McKenzie and Jemaine Clement will be present when Flight of the Conchords make a long-awaited, eagerly anticipated return to television — as part of a one-off live special filmed during the duo's recent sold-out tour. Announced earlier in 2018, Flight of the Conchords: Live at the London Apollo now not only has a US airdate but also an Australian one. The special will screen on HBO in America on Saturday, October 6, and on The Comedy Channel in Australia on Tuesday, October 9 at 8.30pm. As the name really does makes plain, it was recorded in the UK, where Flight of Conchords took their show on the road in March and then returned in late June and early July, following a forced break after McKenzie broke his hand. Yes, it'll be business time, Bowie will be in space and no one will have hurt feelings. Fans can expect to hear the classic tracks that everyone has had stuck in their heads since the folk parody pair's TV series aired between 2007 and 2009, of course, as well as a few new songs. It's also a case of Conchords almost coming full circle, with nabbing a spot on HBO's One Night Stand in the mid-00s one of their big breaks. Foxtel Now subscribers can stream the special live when it airs, but whether it'll be available on demand afterwards has yet to be revealed. In the interim, check out the trailer, as well as the initial HBO date announcement video featuring McKenzie and Clement: https://www.youtube.com/watch?list=PLZQfnFyelTBOQ15kmHSgEbdjzLMWzZpL7&v=xz_-9PlcouE
There isn't a trace of the unwashed artist, student or dole bludger in Surry Hills anymore. I say this from my vantage point at a table in Rosie Campbell's on a Thursday night (on the corner of Crown and Campbell street, in case you hadn't figured it out). The idea of Rosie's is to bring a bit of Jamaica via New York to 2010, but despite the cute fit-out, what you notice at Rosie's is that the clientele comprises solely of Surry Hills' new white collar residents, the types who aren't complaining too much about the current real estate prices. Instead, they're sipping on cocktails that seriously nudge a lobster, cooling out to good reggae and hip hop, and getting stuck into some excellent jerk chicken, made with the venue's amply used signature jerk sauce. The venue is the latest from Graham Cordery and The Experience Group, who's other Surry Hills venue, The Soda Factory, has become a solid staple with a passionate following that come for more than just the famous Tuesday Dollar Dawgs. Following a rather life-changing trip to Jamaica, Cordery was inspired to bring home what he loved about the country: "the contrasting bright colours [and] the vibrancy that really makes you feel alive". The dishes on offer centre around three main flavour groupings, all of which are executed nicely. Deceptively smooth cocktails, like the Montego Bay Punch (of Pampero white and dark rums, Don Julio Plata tequila, pineapple, papaya, rockmelon, sugarcane and almond, $19), as well as a moorish Bowl of Corn with jerk mayo ($8), highlight the sweet and coconutty. A beautifully bright snapper ceviche ($20) and a mango-studded Island Jerk Salad ($16) are fresh and herbal, while the ribs ($19), sweet potato fries ($8) and that wondrous jerk chicken ($18) fill the gap with plenty of warmth and spice. Holding onto your crowd for dessert on Crown Street will always be a challenge with you-know-who just a few steps down the road, but Rosie's presents a good case for staying in with the offer of a warm caramel rum cake ($14). You might be in Surry Hills, but as the final sip of that rum-spiked punch hits you while you have a spoonful of caramel-soaked cake in your mouth, you could, maybe, just be soaking up the rays someplace warmer.
Sydney's ever booming craft beer scene is welcoming a new kid on the block — run by one of the original innovators in Australian craft beer. Samara (Sam) Füss boasts a 16-year career in the industry and is among the country's first female brewers, giving Sydney's newest brewery, Philter Brewing, a seriously experienced head start. Starting out at Sydney Brewing — back when it was still Schwarz Brewing — and more recently holding the heavyweight title of head brewer and production manager of Young Henrys, Füss's rap sheet also includes founding member of Pink Boots Society and The Women in Beer Collective, as well as beer judge for the Australian International Beer Awards (AIBA) and Sydney Royal Show Beer and Cider Awards. There's no doubt this is a woman who knows her beer. Philter Brewing is a distinct departure from the modern, graphically designed, trendoid beer logos that have become the norm in the wild world of craft. Instead, Philter is going for a "classic 1980s Australian aesthetic", which materialises in their first release, an extra pale ale — the simple white can highlights the brewery's name above a diagonal blue and gold streak. It's a pretty Fosters-like design, to be honest. There's no catchy brew name and no artsy description. Their slogan, "seductively beer" essentially gives the impression that the can contains, well, just beer. The unfiltered brew is naturally cloudy and overall easy drinking. It is meant to appeal to both craft beer lovers and those at the beginning of their beer journey, and, it would seem, also aims at steering away from the pretension the craft beer industry is often accused of. The brand raises a good question of what exactly qualifies as craft beer — is it the ingredients, the brewing process, the size and scope of the brewery? Or is it the innovative brew recipes, the 'damn the man' attitude and pushing the boundaries of what a beer can be? Punters can decide on the craftiness for themselves, as the Philter Brewing XPA is currently available at pubs and bottle shops around Sydney, including the bars at The Henson, The Lord Raglan, Bloodwood and The Cricketers Arms and the fridges at Bucket Boys, Beer Cartel and Camperdown Cellars. The team is also hoping to open their own brewery in the inner west come spring and will continue to contract brew in the meantime.
Some events are worth locking into your diary regardless of who's playing and what's brightening up the place, and Parrtjima — A Festival In Light is one of them. An annual favourite in Alice Springs, the Indigenous arts, culture and storytelling festival just might be Australia's most luminous event, as attendees will learn when it returns from Friday, April 7–Sunday, April 16. Parrtjima announced its 2023 dates last year, and also outlined its theme — 'Listening with Heart' — plus some of the light-heavy artworks that folks can look forward to. Now, it has dropped two further details: the list of musicians taking to its stages, as well as a sneak peek at what this year's installations will look like. The music bill overflows with First Nations talent, including Docker River Band, Eastern Reggae Band, Emily Wurramara, JK-47, KAIIT, Karnage and Paul Ah Chee. They'll be joined by Radical Son, Richard J Frankland, Discovering Leerpeen Mara, Rowdy Birds, The Andrew Gurruwiwi Band and The Merindas across the ten days — and with a range of dazzling backdrops. "Parrtjima is a unique experience of large-scale light installations combined with a fascinating program of not just music but also talks, workshops and film," said Northern Territory Major Events Company CEO Suzana Bishop, with the organisation delivering the event on behalf of the Northern Territory Government. "As well as being visually stunning, Parrtjima offers so many other experiences, and the chance to see some of Australia's leading Indigenous artists perform. Combined with the unique tourism offerings available in the Red Centre, Parrtjima is not to be missed." Parrtjima's 2023 theme is inspired by the artwork surrounding the Statement from the Heart. That piece depicts Uluru-Ku Tjukurrpa, the Uluru story of connection, and was created by a group of artists from Multijulu as led by Maruku artist Rene Kulitja. So, Kulitja will work with other of artists for Parrtjima to turn the Statement from the Heart artwork into a large-scale immersive light and sound installation. That means that Parrtjima attendees will find themselves plunged in the world of the Aṉangu people of the Aṉangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands surrounding Uluru. The idea is to feature ancient songlines, plus Indigenous viewpoints on Country, as well as connecting to First Peoples' strong links with the land, water and sky. Two things that'll also be on the bill: two of the festival's regular annual attraction, aka a huge artwork that transforms a 2.5-kilometre stretch of the majestic, 300-million-year-old MacDonnell Ranges, showering it with light each night of the festival; and Grounded, the installation projected over the red dirt at tourism and conservation facility Alice Springs Desert Park. Free to attend, Parrtjima is just one of Northern Territory's two glowing attractions in 2023, with Australia's Red Centre lighting up in multiple ways. The festival is a nice supplement to Bruce Munro's Field of Light installation, which — after multiple extensions — is now on display indefinitely. PARRTJIMA — A FESTIVAL IN LIGHT 2023 MUSIC LINEUP: Docker River Band Eastern Reggae Band, Emily Wurramara JK-47 KAIIT Karnage (DJ) Karnage n Darknis Paul Ah Chee Radical Son Richard J Frankland Discovering Leerpeen Mara Rowdy Birds (DJ) The Andrew Gurruwiwi Band The Merindas Parrtjima – A Festival in Light will run from Friday, April 7–Sunday, April 16, 2023 around Alice Springs in the Northern Territory. For more information, visit the festival website. Feeling inspired to book a getaway? You can now book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations all around the world.
A beloved staple of the meeting point between Marrickville, Enmore and St Peters in Sydney's Inner West, West Juliett shut its doors earlier in 2023. Luckily for all of the fans of this corner cafe, the original founders have opened Agnes just a five-minute drive away. John and Kathryn Stavropoulos have remained in Marrickville, swinging open the doors to their latest venture on Meeks Road just off Marrickville Road. The duo has enlisted an all-star team for their new opening, with Agnes team members boasting experience from across Flour and Stone, Black Star Pastry and Cross Eatery. Housed in a classic graffiti-laden red-brick terrace that had been left dormant, the cafe offers White Horse coffee, plenty of baked treats, and a hefty breakfast and lunch menu which can be taken away, enjoyed inside or paired with some Vitamin D out on the pair of al fresco tables. Pastry chef Etta Napier's focaccia features heavily throughout the menu. For breakfast, you can order it with a simple spread, stacked with avocado and feta, or as the basis for a loaded breakfast sandwich. Come 11am, there are five sandwiches on offer, all piled high atop the focaccia. Veggie lovers can opt for charred miso eggplant with crunchy slaw and pickled red onion, or you can keep it classic with a classic crumbed chicken sambo partnered with nori and fermented chilli mayo. Following your savoury selection, it's only right to treat yourself to a little something sweet. Expect blueberry, lime and cheesecake tarts, plus West Juliett's famous pink salt chocolate-chip cookies. The Agnes team is also committed to keeping things local and in-house, with the honey, jams, pickles and milkshake syrups all made right there at the cafe, or at John and Kathryn's apiary. Even the bacon is smoked locally. "Agnes is more than just a cafe — it's a place where people can come together, enjoy delicious food, connect with friends and create lasting memories," says Kathryn Stavropoulos. Find Agnes at 69 Meeks Road, Marrickville. It's currently open 7am–3pm Monday–Friday and is considering expanding its opening hours to Saturdays.
There are many ways to do Vivid. But not many combine gazing at the epic views and escaping the crowds while sipping premium wines — until now. Premium wine producer Grant Burge Wines is packing up some of its best stock and bringing it up from the Barossa Valley to host a pop-up cellar door at The Squire's Landing during the festival. You'll have just five nights to join chief winemaker Craig Stansborough for a wine tasting backdropped by incredible views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge swathed in light. You'll start your evening with sparkling wine and canapés before Stansborough guides you through a flight. The list features premium drops from Grant Burges Wines' most coveted ranges. And to celebrate this special wine tasting series, we're giving away three double passes, worth $100 each, to the final session at 7.30pm on Sunday, June 2. Enter your details below for a chance to win. [competition]717195[/competition]
What microwaves did for heating, UK company Enviro-Cool is promising to do for cooling. They've created a drink cooler that takes bottles and cans from room temperature to 5 degrees celsius in just 45 seconds. There's every possibility that the invention, which uses 80 percent less energy than commercial refrigeration, could soon become commonplace in homes, shops and eateries all over the world. Envriro-Cool created the technology, which they've patented 'V-Tex', back in 2007. It's based on a sophisticated application of the 'Rankine Vortex'. A European Commission grant of 930,000 Euros enabled its development into a commercial product. According to the promo video, the EC "recognised that the energy used to constantly chill pre-packed beverages was enormous and an unsustainable strain on our depleting energy resources." Three types of coolers have been developed. There's one suitable to commercial use, powerful enough to replace high-energy use equipment, such as multi-deck open refrigerator, and two domestic-friendly units — one stand-alone and one that can be added to existing refrigerators. It's estimated that, for every fridge replaced, over $1000 in electricity will be saved annually. Trials begin in Holland next month. Via PSFK.
Sydney hospitality legends Kenny Graham and Jake Smyth (of Mary's, The Lansdowne, The Unicorn, P&V Wine and Liquor, Mary's Pizzeria) have taken over the historic jazz venue The Basement and begun transforming it into a live gig space, a wine bar and a new harbourside Mary's. And the first of those three has just opened. Yep, you can now stroll on down to Circular Quay and dig into a juicy Mary's burger and fried cauliflower. Wait, what? Yep, this new Mary's has, for the first time ever, a vegan menu. Plant-based peeps, rejoice — you can now get your fill of the famed burgers and fried 'chicken'. The 'chicken' is fried cauliflower and the burgers are made with vegan patty, cheese, bun and a vegan take on Mary's sauce. As an added bonus, there's also no chance of contamination with the kitchen having its own vegan-only cool room, grills and fryers. If you were lucky enough to head along to Mary's Newtown's one-off all-vegan collab with Shannon Martinez (of Melbourne's Smith & Daughters and Smith & Deli), you'll know that the boys do vegan well. Very well. As co-owner Smyth said in a statement, "it's fucking delicious plant based food, designed to make your carnivorous mates jealous." Those carnivorous mates who do prefer their burgers and fried chicken the traditional Mary's way — made with juicy beef and poultry — fear not, you'll find all the meat-filled classic here, too. As well as Mary's classic loud tunes, natural wines, local beers and raucous service. In a change of direction for the duo, though, you can also eat your burgers outdoors (in the sun) at the 30-seat Mary's Alfresco.
Abode Bistro and Bar may be a hotel restaurant, but it's has an impressive high tea that has none of the stuffy vibes you'd expect from an upscale hotel. Think bottomless sparkling wine accompanied by a seasonal menu, and at a very reasonable $65 per person to boot. On offer from Friday through Saturday, the sparkling high tea gets you two full hours of unlimited pours, plus your choice of tea from their Dilmah selection and an ever-changing menu of savoury and sweet bites. The latest menu includes mushroom and goat's curd quiche, smoked salmon and cream cheese roulade and chicken, radicchio and apple slaw sandwiches. Pastries, of which there are six, feature caramel and passion fruit tarts, rhubarb jam and burnt mandarin macarons, as well as lemon meringue pie. Abode Bistro and Bar's high tea runs every Friday from 2pm to 4pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 11.30am to 1.30pm and 2pm to 4pm.
Darlinghurst is known for its vibrant LGBTQI presence, shown in the abundance of rainbow-clad convenience stores, bars and shops. Stonewall is at the forefront of these uber proud establishments, with its status as a heritage-listed building and a history of encouraging people to celebrate their identities. Named after the original Stonewall Bar in Manhattan — home to the historic Stonewall riots of 1969 — the three-story property consists of three different bars that are offering a menu packed with booze-charged concoctions. Dick's Diner is supplying the nightly refuel when you need to replenish your energy. Indulge in a menu of classic bar fares, including a wagyu beef burger and salt and pepper squid. For 17 years, Stonewall has the been the peak place for queer-supportive fun from nightly drag shows and karaoke to parties led by some of Sydney's up and coming DJs. You'll be dancing the days away in the same venue that Jean Paul Gaultier boogied in once upon a time. Images: Katje Ford.
What is more real and more hilarious than life experience? Nothing. Which is why Sydney should brace itself for The Horse's Mouth. For the second time ever, Tamarama Rock Surfers Theatre Company has secured a killer group of local, interstate and international artists for the return of Sydney's only festival of autobiographical performance. Packed full of weird and wonderful tales, the festival will showcase the (sometimes) deeply personal and (usually) hilarious genre, at the Rock Surfers' home, The Bondi Pavilion. Perhaps the most anticipated performance of the festival will be Nassim Soleimanpour's White Rabbit Red Rabbit: a show performed cold, by a different actor each night. That's right, each ballsy actor will open the script for the very first time in front of an audience, with talent such as Alan Flower, Zoe Norton Lodge and Sopa Enari set to take on the challenge. A fascinating concept? Or a disaster waiting to happen? "I actually have no idea what this play is about. Absolutely no idea," says Norton Lodge, who'll be performing on Saturday 7th. "I have an intense child in me who wants to Google the shit out of it, but I haven't." Preparing for the play you're not allowed to prepare for can be pretty absurd. "I don't even know what I should wear," she says. "My method so far has been to have a protracted panic attack. But that's pretty stupid. It’s very pointless to worry about something you cannot control or prepare for in anyway. So that brings me to phase two. Sweep it under the rug and pretend it's not there." And really, what's the worst that could happen? "I come from a comedy background, so I'm a bit worried about having to get mega in touch with some serious feelings. But who knows, it could be racist. That would be worse. Why am I doing this...?" And with The Horse's Mouth marking its Sydney premiere, White Rabbit Red Rabbit is sure to deliver, having already received rave reviews worldwide. But it certainly won't be the only work exploding onto the Bondi stage. Award-winning comic David Quirk presents his part-tribute, part-confessional Shaking Hands with Danger, and The Wild Finish is a mesmerising work from New York theatre-maker Monica Hunken. Ado Saves the Gay World is an intimate musical comedy by Adriano Cappelletta, while Jimmy Dalton delivers All Made Up, an unusual show performed backstage in the Pavilion dressing room. "I am really looking forward to seeing Bron Batten's Sweet Child of Mine," says Norton Lodge. "It's amazing. It's got everything. Dancing. Extreme Braveness. Actual Parents. Actual Butt. I am really excited to see it again." Batten's play — which sees the artist's 60-year-old father appear on the stage with her — is among the six fresh and highly unique pieces on offer over the two-week period. In Norton's words, "There is only really one story you can tell better than anyone else. It's yours, baby ... All the crippling feelings, mangled memories and intricate detail are all there in your brain, waiting to blossom out of the caterpillar of your mind into the butterfly of your play." And who doesn't want to watch that happen?
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.
Riparide is a new online venture which aims to provide surfers from around the globe with an easier means of coordinating holidays and trips. The brainchild of Australians Marion Law and Dane O’Shanassy, Riparide allows surfers to seek accomodation and equipment from locals at their destination. Conversely, surfers who would rather catch waves than go to work can offer their own services in return for cash. O’Shanassy stated that “we’ve gone to places where we know the people with boards and places to stay, but not everyone’s lucky enough to know people in, say, Hawaii.” This is a great service which will only tighten the global surfing community. Staying with other locals will also give you a greater insight into the area and a more authentic experience. Who knows, you might find yourself staying on the couch of the next Kelly Slater. [via PSFK]
Having earned cult status (and TikTok stardom) among the seafood lovers of the USA and Melbourne, Cajun-style restaurant The Boiling Crab is coming to Sydney, bringing its famed signature crab boil offering to Haymarket. Monday, August 13 will see the chain open an expansive restaurant on Harbour Street, a couple of years on from making its first Australian splash in Victoria. Just like its siblings in the south, the new Sydney outpost invites you to don a bib and gloves, turf your inhibitions, and get messy digging into saucy piles of seafood and accompaniments. The menu delivers a sumptuous choose-your-own-adventure scenario. First, select your hero seafood — perhaps some Aussie lobster, Moreton Bay bugs, king crab legs, clams or baby octopus — which is priced by weight, then steamed or boiled in your choice of seasonings, sauces and spices. The latter ranges from 'non-spicy' up to 'XXX (I Can't Feel My Mouth!)', and you can round it all out with extras like gumbo, corn on the cob, whole baby potatoes and cajun-spiced fries. It's delivered to you in the bag, ready to be spilled onto your paper-topped table and devoured with abandon. Fans of the fried stuff can supplement their feast with a hefty lineup of crispy things served by the basket. You'll find hot wings in a variety of coatings, soft shell crab served atop a pile of chips, fried calamari and the crunchy Sha-Bang Bang Shrimp, available in three levels of heat. You'll be quenching your thirst throughout with a crisp imported brew, margarita or michelada — or you can BYO drinks for $3 per person. The Boiling Crab will open at the Ground Floor, 68 Harbour Street, Haymarket on Monday, August 13 — open 12–10pm Monday–Sunday.
When you have the golden beaches of Avoca, the famed pelicans of Woy Woy, lakes, waterfalls and historic landmarks all in one easy drive from Sydney, it's easy to see the appeal of spending the weekend in the Central Coast. Only an hour's drive, or a 90-minute train ride away, the Central Coast is renowned for its natural beauty — and with an ever developing food and drink scene, too, the area has all the escapism you could ask for in a brief getaway without having to forgo the comforts of a city lifestyle. Though you shouldn't pass up the opportunity to dive into the surf at Tallow Beach, picnic at Lobster Beach, or trek through Bouddi National Park, we think there are some unexpected gems you should add to your weekend hit list next time you cruise up the Pacific Highway. Take a look at these seven lesser known things to do on the Central Coast, from cruising for pearls to devouring epic s'mores. While regional holidays within NSW are now allowed, some of the places mentioned below may be operating differently due to COVID-19 restrictions. Please check websites before making any plans.
You've heard the old adage that it's the little things in life that make us happy, right? Well, something as simple as a cheap but damn fine coffee certainly fits that bill — and given that new cafe Little Evie Redfern roasts theirs in house and charges an affordable $3 per cup, they must agree. Setting up shop on Bourke Street, the inner west's latest boutique coffee spot will satisfy your daytime caffeine cravings every day or the week. They'll also serve up homemade cakes to go with it, because taking care of business on the premises is what this new eatery is all about. Fancy a just-baked peanut butter cookie with your fresh-roasted cuppa, anyone? If you're after something more substantial food-wise, expect banana bread with ricotta and strawberry, breakfast bruschetta with horizon and haloumi, and lemon myrtle-cured salmon with scrambled eggs on Little Evie's all-day brekkie menu. Lunchtime options include sandwiches, salads, burgers and soups, aka the perfect kind of homemade fare. And if you're not a coffee fiend — because they do exist — then jugs of house-made soda, six types of cold-pressed juices, a range of shakes and smoothies, a sizeable wine and choice of four Aussie beers should satisfy your thirst.
Sydney is set for a new dose of traditional Cantonese cooking next month when Canton! Canton! opens in the CBD. The restaurant is by the Jewel Pantry Group, a dining group focusing on cuisines from the Asia-Pacific, which launched just last October. And it has taken over the old Tim Ho Wan Sydney outposts (and nabbed its chef) on George Street and Pitt Street Mall. Tim Ho Wan — the world's cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant — launched in Sydney in late-2015, before suddenly closing last year. While the Jewel Pantry Group has taken over the chain's former CBD outposts, there's no word yet on what will happen to Tim Ho Wan's Chatswood's store, which is also closed. The first of the dining group's venues to launch will be Canton! Canton!, which will take over the George Street site in mid-February. The 68-seater will have Executive Chef Jacky Chan at the helm, who used to run the kitchen at Sydney's Tim Ho Wans. He boasts 28 years' experience cooking Chinese fare, with a special career focus on dim sum — he's trained with top Hong Kong chefs and held the title of head dim sum chef at Shangri-La Hotel, Singapore, too. Patrons can expect yum cha, barbecue pork buns and Chinese teas from 11am, followed by barbecued duck, pork and chicken, roasted in-house daily. For dinner, there'll be mains like braised pork belly with preserved veggies, alongside an extensive wine list and a signature Hong Kong-style caramelised Malay cake for dessert. Three banquet menus will also be on offer. [caption id="attachment_518017" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Shumai at Tim Ho Wan.[/caption] The fit-out is courtesy of interior designer Dorian McCartney (Hydra Design) and architect Raymond Teo. The design is inspired by the street markets of Canton, with 'opium bed' booths and antique tea crates previously used by Chinese shipping merchants. The hospitality group's second venue, Mr. Fatt, will open in the Pitt Street Mall site later this year as a 12-seat takeaway joint. While Canton! Canton! leans towards tradition, Mr. Fatt will instead offer a modern fusion of Singaporean and Malaysian fare. And you can expect more restaurants to join The Jewel Pantry Group's portfolio in coming months, with a Hainan rice specialty on the menu. Canton! Canton! will open mid-February at Shop GD004, 580 George Street, Sydney, with Pitt Street Mall's Mr. Fatt to follow later this year. Keep an eye on this space for opening date and hours. Image: Executive Chef Jacky Chan.
Australians, if you like your burgers cruelty-free, then you've probably been keen to introduce your tastebuds to Impossible Foods. One of the big names in plant-based meat, the brand has built up quite the following in the US — and, from today, Thursday, November 4, it's finally available Down Under. Known for making not just meat alternatives but also dairy substitutes out of plants, Impossible has launched in Australia with two big collaborations: with burger chain Grill'd and Sydney fried chicken joint-meets-sneaker shop Butter. Nationwide, you can now tuck into four Impossible burgs made with the brand's beef alternative. If you're a Sydneysider, you have a couple more options at Butter's Chatswood and Parramatta outposts, and you'll also be able to try a broader menu at Butter's upcoming Impossible pop-up in The Rocks. For burger fiends, those four new additions at Grill'd Australia-wide include a cheeseburger (complete with vegan cheese and vegan mayonnaise), the 'Simply Grill'd' which recreates the chain's standard burg, a vegetable-heavy option that comes with beetroot and avocado, and an Aussie spin on the concept that also adds beetroot and barbecue burger sauce. In Sydney, Butter is doing an Impossible cheeseburger and an Impossible classic burger, marking the first time it's ever had plant-based meat alternatives on its menu. Butter will also be adding a new Impossible burger to its lineup every fortnight, and slinging Impossible lasagnes and meatball subs via its home-delivery brand Mumma Julian's. And, at a yet-to-be-revealed date sometime later in November, Butter's Impossible pop-up in The Rocks will only serve items made with Impossible beef. Think: meat-free katsu, cheeseburgers and chilli cheese fries, plus whatever else Butter co-owner and executive chef Julian Cincotta comes up with. In total, Impossible's meat-less 'beef' is now available in more than 150 restaurants around the country — and you can expect more places to join the list. And if you're wondering what makes the brand's plant-based options stand out, it was named the best plant-based burger by The New York Times. Grill'd's Impossible menu is available in stores from Thursday, November 4. Butter is serving two Impossible burgers at its Chatswood and Parramatta outposts, and will set up an Impossible pop-up in The Rocks later in November. For further details about Impossible, head to the brand's website.
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
Of all of Earth's natural ecosystems, there's nothing quite like rainforests. An incredibly important part of our global climate, these verdant kingdoms make up only three percent of our planet's surface but are home to more than half of terrestrial animals. They absorb pollutants, are crucial to the livelihoods of one in every four people and effectively act as the 'lungs' of planet Earth. We might not have a rainforest here in Sydney, but the next best thing in town is the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney and its dedicated greenhouse space, The Calyx. This indoor space is home to thousands of plants year-round, and it also hosts regular exhibitions like Alchemy of a Rainforest. Having opened on Sunday, September 15, this latest exhibition is all about the rainforest. It showcases the variety and beauty of the biomes with recreations of plants, flowers, trees and animals made with recycled materials by environmental artist Jane Gillings. From humble seeds and busy butterflies to an oversized satin bowerbird bower you can walk through, the exhibition is built to immerse you in and educate you about the mysteries of nature and the little living things that make our rainforests and world go around. Before leaving, be sure to swing by The Leaf Department Cafe, the on-site eatery within The Calyx, for a cup of coffee and a hearty sandwich to enjoy indoors or on the grass outside. Have you got any events coming up? This quiet oasis is sticking around in The Calyx until well into 2025, and will be available as a function space for hire for any special occasion you can fit inside a rainforest. Alchemy of a Rainforest runs from Sunday, September 15. Entry is available with a donation. Visit the website for more information.
Summer is gone and the CBD might seem as though it's in a season-long shadow — but there's at least one place where the holiday vibes are in full swing. The old Verandah Bar on Elizabeth Street — which sold for over $9 million last year — has relaunched its dining room Social at Verandah. The restaurant sees the property's restaurant transformed into a urban garden oasis, complete with sprawling balcony, tropical prints throughout and about a greenhouse's worth of lush foliage. Here, interiors feature a vacation-inspired mix of warm tones, dark timber and rattan, while a bold mural by artist Chris Nixon brings the dining room's main wall to life. To match, Executive Chef Brad Sloane has put together a sharing menu centred around ethically sourced native Australian produce. It's approachable, yet smart, featuring classic chargrilled steaks, alongside dishes like a yabby tail and roast pumpkin tortellini, kangaroo tartare topped with quail egg yolk, and a whole suckling pig that's carved at the table. That's backed by a global-reaching wine list, extensive selections of gin and whisky, and a crop of signature cocktails. And that's just phase one of Simon Tilley and Nick Wills' reinvention of the CBD haunt — the adjoining Verandah Bar has also enjoyed an overhaul, and is slated to open its doors in the coming weeks. Social at Verandah is now open at 55–65 Elizabeth Street, Sydney. For more info, visit the Facebook page.
Back when streaming platforms and digital television were just a futuristic dream, and when every Australian TV network only had one channel, SBS was an Aussie cinephile's go-to source for free international cinema. The public broadcaster has continued to uphold that role over the past decade or so, especially via its online service SBS On Demand. But now it's giving movie buffs what we've always wanted: a new, free-to-air, 24-hour world movies channel. SBS World Movies will launch on Monday, July 1 on channel 32, playing flicks from around the globe all day, every day. Prepare for quite the movie marathon, as more than 700 films will be broadcast each year. The channel will also become the network's third in HD — a far cry from the days when folks at home would record the station's international movies on grainy VHS tapes to watch again later. While the full launch slate hasn't been revealed, a selection of recent high-profile titles will be heading SBS World Movies' way, including Yorgos Lanthimos' dark and twisty The Killing of a Sacred Deer with Colin Farrell and Nicole Kidman; moving French drama Amanda, which just screened at this year's Alliance Française French Film Festival; and applauded 2018 festival hit Ash is the Purest White, the latest film by acclaimed auteur Jia Zhangke. Norwegian historical drama The 12th Man, French thriller Just A Breath Away and Belgian Cannes winner Girl round out the just-announced first movies. https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=1&v=QT3KlMWHfzw The channel will also showcase women in film via a weekly double focusing on female filmmakers and lead actors, highlight favourites from the international film festival circuit, delve into up-and-coming cinema from far-flung corners of the world, and curate seasons around events like Diwali, Lunar New Year, International Women's Day and Mardi Gras. Along with programming world movies on its existing channels, as well as on SBS On Demand, SBS is no stranger to the dedicated film channel game. For nearly a quarter of a century up until January 2018, World Movies was available via subscription TV services such as Foxtel. When SBS World Movies joins the network's lineup, it'll sit alongside existing channels SBS, SBS VICELAND, SBS Food and NITV. SBS World Movies launches on Monday, July 1 on channel 32.
Almost one year after their break-up, a film documenting the final chapters of alternative powerhouse LCD Soundsystem will premiere on January 22 at the Sundance Film Festival. Shut Up and Play the Hits, directed by Dylan Southern and William Lovelace, shows frontman James Murphy in the hours prior to the band's farewell show at Madison Square Garden. This will be combined with unbeatable footage from their epic ultimate performance, as well as Murphy's reactions and reflections on what has been an illustrious career. With a devotion to both the personal and performance aspects of Murphy's character, Shut Up and Play the Hits gives fans an intimate insight into the brains behind one of this generation's most innovative and critically acclaimed bands. The anticipation before the LCD's grand farewell is balanced with the sense of loss the morning after, giving viewers a complete experience on this emotional and artistic rollercoaster. On top of three studio albums and numerous Grammy nominations, LCD Soundsystem were able to forge a cult following which reflected their diverse sound combining disco and punk rock with a distinct indie tinge. Murphy was also the co-founder of DFA Records, home of fellow alternative favourites Holy Ghost! and The Rapture.
The Christmas decorations are up and All I Want For Christmas Is You has crawled its way back to the top of Mariah Carey's most popular songs on Spotify. That can only mean one thing – the most wonderful time of the year is almost here. And though it may be daunting to start thinking of the holiday already in November, the fact that you are thinking about it means you can be prepared this year. Every year you promise yourself you'll start your Chrissy shopping earlier, and this year the gift-giving gurus at hardtofind are going to help you finally follow through. Curated marketplace hardtofind offers genuinely different gifts, homewares and fashion online, but now they're bringing their market to the real world. Teaming up with EQ Moore Park, hardtofind is kicking off a new monthly market just in time for Christmas, bringing their wares for Sydneysiders to peruse in real life. Think artworks, jewellery, home and garden accessories, clothing, knick-knacks and do-dads — you name it, they've probably got it. And the best part is, heaps of the gifts can be personalised with a name, monogram, message or date for that extra-special touch. With two pre-Christmas markets and a return in early 2018, the hardtofind market will run on Sunday, November 26 and Sunday, December 17. So, whether you're a super-organised elf or a last-minute Scrooge, you have plenty of chances to get your Chrissy shopping wrapped up.
In the two decades that Gelato Messina has been in dessert business, more than 4000 special flavours have made their way through the chain's gelato cabinets around the country. Each year, it releases 260 specials, in fact. Yes, that's a lot of frosty and creamy scoops. To celebrate some of these oldies but goodies, the chain brings a selection of these flavours back every now and then — and, sometimes, it busts out its entire top 40 greatest hits. That's happening again this winter, based on the past year's top flavours, so you'd best make room in your freezer. Lucky Sydneysiders, Melburnians and Brisbanites will be able to treat themselves to a treasure trove of limited-edition gelato varieties. While, in the past, the greatest hits specials have been a buy-in-shop-only deal, the chain went with preordered tubs in 2020 — so no one had to worry about long queues and empty cabinets — and it's doing the same thing again in 2023. Gelato fiends can preorder 500-millilitre tubs of the 40 flavours from Monday, July 10. You'll then need to pick them up from Sydney's Marrickville, Tramsheds, Bondi, Darlinghurst, Norwest, Brighton Le Sands stores; Fitzroy and East Brunswick in Melbourne; South Brisbane in Brisbane; and Braddon in Canberra — all between Friday, July 21–Sunday, July 23. Individual tubs are filled with just one flavour and will set you back $19, or you can get three for $54, five for $75, ten for $140 or — if you have the freezer space — 20 for $250. Wondering which flavours are available? Messina has dropped the full list of faves making a comeback — and it's stacked with deliciousness (just like your freezer will be). Fairy Bread (toast and butter gelato with 100s & 1000s) and Robert Blondie Jnr (white chocolate gelato, blondie and white chocolate fudge sauce) will all return in tub form. So will Balls Deep (chocolate gelato with chocolate mud cake and salted caramel fudge) and You Cannoli Live Twice (chocolate crème patisserie gelato with chocolate hazelnut fudge, candied hazelnuts, and crushed cannoli shells), too. Love Messina's takes on other beloved desserts? The Malteaser, Eton Mess, Baked Mango Cheesecake, Have a Gay Old Time, Pavlova, Red Velvet — those Messina flavours are all on the list as well. Good luck trying to choose just one, or even a mere few. Gelato Messina's Greatest Hits will be available to preorder on Monday, July 10 with pick up between Friday, July 21–Sunday, July 23 from Sydney's Marrickville, Tramsheds, Bondi, Darlinghurst, Norwest, Brighton Le Sands stores (orders from 12.15pm); Fitzroy and East Brunswick in Melbourne; South Brisbane in Brisbane; and Braddon in Canberra (orders from 12pm).
Hip hop goes kid friendly at Graphic Festival this year when Elefant Traks pays tribute to the whimsical spirit and imagery of Dr. Seuss. The innovative Sydney collective and label will be maintaining their motto to make “challenging yet adventurous music”, rounding up 25 artists to turn 60 years of children’s classics into a 90-minute performance of enormous enormance drenching the Opera House Theatre in a surrealist fusion of modern sound and visual whimsy. Among the acts are The Herd, Hermitude, Urthboy, Horrorshow, Jimblah and Unkle Ho, who will be spitting fresh new rhymes to trippy Seuss visuals projected onto a Hortonesque screen. But since this is, at its heart, a meeting, you can expect there to be a few familiar jams thrown in too. Dr. Seuss Meets Elefant Traks is a specially commissioned show for Graphic 2012. To commemorate it Graphic will be giving away a framed limited edition artwork by Dr. Seuss, so buy two or tickets for a chance at winning.
If you've been dreaming of that perfect European summer, or have had your feed flooded with uber-popular and super-trendy French pastries, then this brand-new boutique bakery-slash-cafe is calling your name. Frenchies Bakery & Pâtisserie is the new venture from the team at Frenchies Bistro & Brewery, arriving with handcrafted French delights to the streets of Rosebery. Following the success of the team's original brewery and its attached dining room, the Frenchies team has traded craft beers for flaky croissants at its new venture — located just two doors down from the OG venue in the suburb's The Cannery building. "We developed a reputation for our bakery items during the lockdowns, so much so that even after they ended, we were often asked when these products were coming back," said Thomas Cauquil, co-owner of the new locale. "So, it's this demand for French-style bakery products in the area, paired with our passion for baking, that ultimately inspired the launch of Frenchies Bakery & Pâtisserie." The stylish newcomer is serving up freshly baked treats daily from an inviting cafe-style bakery space. Take your pick from the sweet and savoury selections on offer, which are created utilising classic French baking techniques with a modern flare and using only the best of fresh, local produce. At Frenchies Bakery & Pâtisserie, you can expect to find an array of classic French viennoiseries (baked goods) like crispy kouign-amann and warm, buttery pain au chocolates — so you can have your very own Emily in Paris moment — alongside gorgeous pâtisseries including the pistachio and raspberry religieuse, and chocolate, hazelnut and vanilla entremet. Plus, there is sourdough aplenty and some hefty lunch options. Think baguette sandwiches featuring house-made pork rillettes, hearty pies and specialty coffee from The Little Marionette. To top off the offerings, there is a selection of handcrafted cakes designed specifically for events. If you've wanted a millefeuille for your birthday, a croquembouche for a christening or a fruit-forward pavlova fit for any occasion, you'll find them all here. You'll find Frenchies Bakery & Pâtisserie at 4/61–71 Mentmore Ave, Rosebery. It's open 7am–3pm Wednesday–Sunday.
Here's your chance to meet the man who burned a million pounds. Back in 1994, as one-half of the K Foundation, Bill Drummond met with co-performer Jimmy Cauty in an abandoned boathouse on the Isle of Jura, Scotland, where the two of them set fire to most of the money they'd earned as The KLF, an acid house band that ruled the early '90s. These days, Drummond makes art under the name Penkiln Burn. His recent escapades have involved making and giving away flowers, beds and cakes. Right now, though, he's on a world tour, which began with daffodils beneath Spaghetti Junction in Birmingham in March 2014 and will finish there — but not until April 2025. Along the way, he's exhibiting his show The 25 Paintings in 12 cities in 12 various nations. The University of Northampton is so impressed they've given him an honorary Master of Arts degree. As part of Modulations, Drummond will make an exclusive appearance at Carriageworks on Saturday, June 6, at 6pm to discuss his art.
Calling all sleuths of Australia — again. If you haven't fulfilled your murder-mystery fix on the big and small screens over the past few years, and if you missed a whodunnit play hailing from the one and only Agatha Christie in both 2022 and 2023, then you'd best make a new date with The Mousetrap. Here are two questions for you to solve first: why is this play coming your way once more a big deal, and when is it doing the rounds again? The answers: as well as being penned by Christie, it's the world's longest-running play; and, because its past Aussie seasons have proven such a hit, it's returning to a heap of cities from May–September 2024. As well as heading to Hobart and Darwin, this tour is favouring regional and smaller spots. That means seeing The Mousetrap in Newcastle, Wollongong, the Gold Coast, Toowoomba, Geelong and Frankston — among other stops — for audiences in New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria. Initially premiering in London's West End in 1952, The Mousetrap has been treading the boards in the UK ever since, only pausing during to pandemic venue closures. When theatres reopened in Britain, so did the show. Indeed, when it arrived in Australia in 2022, The Mousetrap did so 70 years to the month that it first debuted. Unsurprisingly, that hefty run means that the show has enjoyed the longest stint for any West End production, and for any play anywhere in the world. So far, there's been more than 28,500 London performances. To answer the other obvious question, yes, it's all about an unexpected body. The murder-mystery starts with news of a killing in London — and with seven people snowed in at a guest house in the country. They're strangers, which is classic Christie. When a police sergeant arrives on skis, they're told that the murderer is among them (which, again, is vintage Christie). They all have wild pasts, too, and all those details are spilled as they're interrogated, and also try to work out who among them is the killer. Those guests at Monkswell Manor include a pair of newlyweds who run the house, a spinster, an architect who is handy in the kitchen, a retired Army major, a man who says his car has overturned in a drift, and a jurist. Naturally, there's another death as they're all puzzling it over — and a twist conclusion, which audiences have been requested not to reveal after leaving the theatre for seven decades now. Again, it's all Christie all over, which'll be evident if you've seen the recent film versions of Murder on the Orient Express and Death on the Nile — or the original cinema adaptations, or read the books, or devoured anything else that Christie ever wrote. And, if you caught 2022's See How They Run, you'll be more than a little familiar with The Mousetrap as well. This theatre work started as a short radio play, which was written as a birthday present for Queen Mary. It aired in 1947 under the name Three Blind Mice, after which Christie rewrote it as a short story, then adapted it again for the stage as The Mousetrap. And no, there isn't a movie of it — because Christie stipulated that it can't leap to the screen until at least six months after the West End production closes. Clearly, that hasn't happened yet. In Australia, the play boasts Robyn Nevin directing and John Frost for Crossroads Live Australia producing. AGATHA CHRISTIE'S THE MOUSETRAP 2024 AUSTRALIAN TOUR: Saturday, May 11–Saturday, May 25: Newcastle Civic Theatre, Newcastle Thursday, May 29–Sunday, June 2 — HOTA, Home of the Arts, Gold Coast Tuesday, June 11–Monday, June 24 — Theatre Royal, Hobart Thursday, June 27–Sunday, June 30 — Civic Theatre, Orange Thursday, July 4–Sunday, July 7 — Geelong Arts Centre, Geelong Thursday, July 11–Saturday, July 13 — Darwin Entertainment Centre, Darwin Wednesday, July 17–Friday, July 19 — Glasshouse, Port Macquarie Tuesday, July 23–Wednesday, July 24 — Empire Theatre, Toowoomba Wednesday, July 31–Saturday, August 3 — Frankston Arts Centre, Frankston Thursday, August 8–Sunday, August 11 — Albury Entertainment Centre, Albury Thursday, August 15–Sunday, August 25 — Glen St Theatre, Frenchs Forest Thursday, August 29–Sunday, September 1 — Entertainment Convention Centre, Mackay Thursday, September 5–Monday, September 16 — Illawarra Performing Arts Centre, Wollongong Agatha Christie's The Mousetrap will tour Australia in 2024. For further details and tickets, head to the play's website. Images: Brian Gleach.
Good news, Sydneysiders — for the first time ever, you can enjoy The Happy Mexican's vibrant dishes without having to book a flight to Melbourne. Julian Romero's Melbourne-based restaurant is now taking up residence inside the iconic Lansdowne Hotel, slinging its coveted Mexican cuisine from Harbour City digs. To celebrate its launch, the Sydney restaurant is doing a bunch of exciting giveaways, including slinging 500 free tacos and tequila shots across three huge days until Saturday, April 13, and dishing out $2 tacos for the entire month of April. The eatery's Sydney home fits up to 500 guests and features dark, moody interiors with emerald green splashed across its walls. The historic charm of The Lansdowne, paired with live gigs and now vibrant Mexican fare, creates an inviting spot to hit up for great food and tunes. The Happy Mexican's Head Chef, Jesus Rios, says he will be "serving up a spectrum of unique, authentic flavours straight from the heart of Mexico to Chippendale." If you're wondering what'll be on offer at the first-ever Sydney spot, look no further. Keep an eye out for tacos galore, with the menu starring roasted chicken breast, marinated pork, beer-battered fish and its signature slow-cooked beef birria tacos, as well as excellent Mexican dishes like chilaquiles, calabacitas and nopales. Rounding out the menu — which runs across both lunch and dinner service — is its famed Jalisco Birria-style quesabirrias with Oaxaca cheese. As for drinks, the plethora of cocktails available spans from piña coladas and palomas to variations of margaritas and mezcalitos, as well as beers on tap. You'll find The Happy Mexican Sydney at 2-6 City Road inside The Lansdowne Hotel at Chippendale, open from 12—10pm from Wednesday–Saturday.
Summer calls for margaritas, and this February, Patrón is hooking Sydney up. For the entire month, the premium handcrafted tequila brand will bring laidback Mexican luxury to Bondi's The Bucket List, featuring a specialty menu curated around top-shelf summer cocktails — and we're giving away VIP access to the opening night. The party will start on Thursday, February 1, with DJ sets by No Qualms and Andy Bird from 7pm. There'll be Tommy's Margaritas served from your own special Patrón bottle to order alongside some chipotle fish tacos. Next up, go for a grapefruit Paloma cocktail, and top off the evening with Patrón's Perfect Espresso Martini — their twist on the classic espresso martini using their Silver and XO Café tequilas. Along with serving Patrón's exclusive cocktails, The Bucket List's outdoor bar will be transformed into a Mexican oasis with whitewashed timber and woven seating, all embellished with blue agave plants and other Latin American native flora. Continue your journey into the luxe world of Patrón by way of a dedicated virtual reality experience that guides you through the Hacienda Patrón in Guadalajara, Mexico through the eyes of a voyeuristic bee. The event is open to all from 7pm, but if you want exclusive access to the launch, go in the running for one of our passes that'll get you and three friends a reserved booth and two free cocktails each. And because two parties are better than one, another lush Mexican-themed experience will also start at Mrs Sippy on February 1 and will run for the full month as well. If that still isn't enough tequila goodness for you, The Tilbury Hotel will host their own Patrón fiesta from February 8. Each venue will have its own exclusive food and drink pairings, but luckily you'll have the entire month to try them all. [competition]654850[/competition]
