2023 marks a mere five years since Netflix released its first-ever Australian original series, with Tidelands hitting the streaming service three years after it officially launched Down Under. That supernatural drama didn't usher in a non-stop influx of new Aussie content. While older local titles sit among the platform's catalogue, freshly commissioned fare such as Heartbreak High and Wellmania is still fairly rare. But Netflix's small pool of homegrown Australian projects has locked in a few more additions, with four just-announced newcomers on their way. The novel-to-screen adaptation of Boy Swallows Universe is also in the works, but that was initially revealed almost 18 months back. Following it to your queue will be another book-to-TV effort, an outback family-feud tale and two movies — one starring Delta Goodrem and the other a documentary about ONEFOUR. First, your future binges: The Survivors and Desert King (although they're just working titles, so those monikers might change). The first is heading to Netflix from the pages of Jane Harper's text of the same name, while the second sounds like it wants to give Succession-meets-Yellowstone a Top End spin. Neither have casts as yet, or release dates. [caption id="attachment_905971" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Force of Nature, Narelle Portanier[/caption] Yes, Australia's screen industry currently loves bringing Harper's works to the screen. The Dry proved a massive smash, after all, and that flick's sequel Force of Nature will hit cinemas when Hollywood's actors' strike is over. The Survivors isn't linked to either movie by anything but author, so there's no Aaron Falk this time. Instead, the Tasmanian-set story follows families still coping with the loss caused by a massive storm in their seaside town 15 years earlier, then faced with a new murder. As for Desert King, it will be set on the world's largest cattle station, which the Lawson family runs. When the property is left without a firm successor, the fights start — and everyone from billionaire miners and desert gangsters to Indigenous elders and other cattle barons get involved. Netflix will get bonus points from audiences if they manage to get Sarah Snook to star. [caption id="attachment_914014" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Courtesy of Netflix © 2023[/caption] With the streamer's upcoming Aussie movies, Goodrem has been born to give her acting chops another try, this time in a romance called Love Is in the Air. There's no word on whether the film will feature Delta singing John Paul Young's Aussie song of the same name, which first released in the 70s and became a hit again in the 90s thanks to Strictly Ballroom. What is known, however, is that the flick is about a seaplane pilot who falls for the man who's meant to be tanking her business — and that it'll be filmed in the Whitsundays. ONEFOUR: Against All Odds will tell its namesake's story, including the drill rap group's huge popularity and the police taskforce attempting to stop them performing. "The story of ONEFOUR is one of the most significant cultural moments in recent Australian history. It's about the changing face of this country and who gets to have a voice in it," said writer/director Gabriel Gasparinatos. "Australia markets this sunkissed image of itself and it's so important to show it's not all like that, and that there is another side to this country the world is only just starting to see. I'm so grateful to ONEFOUR for trusting us with their story and to Netflix for bringing it to the global audience it deserves." Announced previously, Netflix is also making a second season of its Heartbreak High revival, as well as Surviving Summer. The former is due in 2024 and the latter this September. And, for kids, Eddie's Lil Homies is on its way, based on childrens' books by former AFL superstar Eddie Betts, and following an eight-year-old Eddie and his friends. Netflix's just-announced new Australian projects don't yet have release dates — we'll update you when more information is announced. Top image: The Dry.
Tough love is hard to take, but for two uneasily cohabiting brothers, fraternal love is the toughest. The brothers Ogun and Oshoosi Size take their names from the guiding spirits of the Yoruba pantheon and elements of Yoruban myth, music and movement blend into this contemporary fable about inchoate feelings, fate and consequence. The story of the two black Louisiana brothers may, at first, seem cliche: Ogun is the responsible car mechanic; his feckless younger brother is the ex-con who is happily aimless in life. Ogun's well-intentioned nagging about jobs makes Oshoosi feel like he's back in prison, and Elgeba, who looked after Oshoosi while they were both serving time, proves to be the catalyst for the inevitable rift between the brothers. It is testament to the dynamic interaction between ritual and realism, as well as the raw emotional power and resonance of the script, that The Brothers Size is neither predictable nor prosaic. African drumming propels the action on the wide, bare stage and the actors integrate their own stage directions into the dialogue to provide an oddly metronomic effect. The Brothers Size is a kind of inquest into the darker side of human experience, made accessible though the incantatory script. The intensity of the characters' struggles to make sense of their feelings for each other is offset by the exuberant theatricality of their spontaneous song and dance routines. The Brothers Size is a powerful feat of physicality and emotionality that was a highlight of New York's 2007 Under the Radar Festival. It explores the limits of family, but also the potential of the individual spirit and the startling idea that, no matter what, we are all responsible for each others' lives.
Located on the ground floor of the Four Seasons Hotel, Mode Kitchen & Bar has been a success since it opened in July. It's easy to believe. With a menu created and executed by Francesco Mannelli (ex-est., Balla and Bistrode CBD), the restaurant achieves a delicate balance between casual, bistro and fine dining. To celebrate the launch of this exciting space, we've managed to secure an exclusive giveaway for one of our lucky readers. You could win a four-course dining experience — with matched wines, of course — for you and three friends. That's right, four lucky ducks will have the chance to sample some of Sydney's best food and wine in a delectable feast at Mode Kitchen & Bar. Enjoy a selection of simple dishes, heavily influenced by Mannelli's love of fresh produce. We're talking kingfish sashimi with macadamias, sweet and sour onion, a risotto with asparagus and morel mushrooms and tenderloin medallions with cauliflower and anchovies. Are your tastebuds tingling yet? Perhaps you're more enticed by dessert offerings, like a dark chocolate delice with strawberry sorbet or mango meringue with hazelnut, lime and coconut. Whether it's the sweet or the savoury you're into, Mannelli's menu has something for all. Coeliacs will also be pleased to discover the menu is almost entirely gluten-free. As for the drinks, did we mention each course will be complemented with a matched wine from the venue's list of over 200 drops? Celebrate with a sparkling, savour a crisp white and enjoy a sultry red, each of which will be expertly paired with the dish on offer. As you work your way through the courses, soak up the restaurant's art-deco interior — 1920s glam is the order of the day here. Encircled in fluted glass, Mode Kitchen & Bar is decked out in velvet with hints of brass, marble and leather throughout. To be in the running to win this exclusive dining experience, enter your details below. [competition]639380[/competition]
Staying at QT Gold Coast is a luxe experience, with the hotel chain serving up its characteristically distinctive version of beachy chic. That's one of the accommodation brand's key traits, matching each of its sites to its surroundings. QT Sydney's glorious gothic look and QT Melbourne's impeccably polished vibe wouldn't suit Surfers Paradise, after all, and the latter's coastal cool wouldn't match anywhere else either. Here's something else that mightn't quite fit at any other QT: the Gold Coast venue's new qtQT rooftop cabins. The chain has converted an otherwise unused lower-level rooftop into an urban oasis, complete with tropical gardens, firepits and six laidback spots for guests to stay — and get away from it all in the middle of the Glitter Strip. Designed by Nic Graham, a regular at working with EVT — QT's parent company — each cabin can welcome in two guests. So, you and your bestie / other half can book one for a blissful vacation, or you can gather the gang and reserve all six at once. Fancy heading along solo? This is the place for that as well. And, QT sees it as a drawcard for retreats and weddings, too. Whoever you're visiting with — or not — you'll find a stay that's designed to help you unplug, with each cabin featuring its own private balcony. They all come equipped with I Love Linen robes, a bed decked out with I Love Linen sheets and Drift candles for ambience, plus board games and coffee table books. That said, you can switch off as much or little as you like. If you still want to use the qtQT cabins as a base to explore the Goldie, the hotel's newest addition has its own 'curator of sunshine' to organise activities for you. Other onsite options include stargazing by those aforementioned firepits, enjoying an aperitivo in the same place, meditating and tucking into a meal al fresco dining area The Terrace — which'll host both bespoke feasts and communal dining experiences. There's also a lawn called The Landing which looks out over the ocean, and is touted as an ideal picnic spot, place to salute the sun with an early-morning yoga session or a breakfast hangout. And, during your stay — with rates starting at $359 per night — you'll also have access to the hotel's pool precinct. QT is launching qtQT on the first day of summer, after all, with bookings open now for trips from Thursday, December 1. Or, you can head to the onsite SpaQ, or eat cooking, eating and drinking at either sushi-making or whisky-tasting sessions at onsite Japanese restaurant Yamagen. The new qtQT concept is also QT's way of testing out a big travel trend, given how popular tiny homes and cabins have proven over the past few years. "When designing the overall QT Gold Coast upgrade, we identified a previously unused lower-level rooftop. We had been exploring the world of tiny accommodation and standing there as the sun set, we knew this would be the perfect location to trial our interpretation of this experience, the QT way," said EVT CEO Jane Hasting, announcing qtQT. Find qtQT at QT Gold Coast, 7 Staghorn Ave, Surfers Paradise. qtQT is open for bookings for stays from Thursday, December 1. 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.
Love the fact or not, as far as top-notch tipples and world-class watering holes go, Melbourne just kicked a serious goal. Here to add a little more fuel to the 'which city does it best?' debate, the Victorian capital has outranked all other Australian counterparts to nab a spot in Punch's 2023 guide to the world's most travel-worthy drinking destinations. The international drinks publication has revealed its Where to Drink in 2023 wrap-up, naming Melbourne as one of just five cities worldwide. Also making the unranked list were Buenos Aires in Argentina, Portugal's capital Lisbon, Osaka in Japan and, flying the flag for the United States, Madison in Wisconsin. [caption id="attachment_787570" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nick & Nora's by Brook James[/caption] Punch's drinks connoisseurs selected their top five locations based on their ability to deftly balance long-held traditions and old-school sensibilities with fresh, forward-thinking philosophies. "The results are often surprising, sometimes frenetic, tense, even bewildering, but never boring," Punch explains. As for what specifically earned Melbourne a spot in this year's lineup, the publication cited its penchant for the unpretentious, its new-school take on casual service and the cultural diversity that continues to shape its drinks scene. That broad assortment of genres proved a wining formula, too — whether you're into divey rock 'n roll joints like Heartbreaker, sophisticated cocktail haunts like Nick & Nora's, intimate wine bars such as The Moon, or something in between, Melbourne's got a drinking den to suit. The city's commitment to sustainability and innovation also scored a shoutout, as did its famed pub culture — according to Punch, "rivalled only by the U.'s, with a diversity and familiarity that feels particularly Australian." [caption id="attachment_835092" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Pearl Diver Cocktail & Oysters[/caption] The publication also shared its top three picks for Melbourne's must-drink cocktails, naming the espresso martini (no shocks there), the New York-style sazerac and the Melbourne-born Japanese Slipper. This boozy new badge of honour comes after Melbourne scored a slew of drinks-related accolades in 2022. CBD bar Caretaker's Cottage nabbed a spot in latest's edition of The World's 50 Best Bars extended 51–100 list, Pearl Diver's Alex Boon was crowned 2022 winner of the Patrón Perfectionists Australian Cocktail Competition and Nick Tesar of Bar Liberty took out the title of Australia's Best Bartender. [caption id="attachment_623310" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Bar Liberty by Brook James[/caption] Check out Punch's full Where to Drink in 2023 list over at its website. Top image: The Moon.
With Sydney WorldPride and Mardi Gras enlivening the city this February, Sydney is truly decked out in colour right now. But for a dose of fabulous feelings and dazzling colours that doesn't require standing parade-side or lining up for a buzzing watering hole, head to the Capitol Theatre for Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. That's right, Joseph is back, bringing all the colours of the rainbow (plus all the makings of a standout night of song) to the Haymarket stage until April. If you're not familiar with this iconic musical, it was originally written way back in the late '60s by the now-legendary duo of Andrew Lloyd Webber (Phantom of the Opera, Cats) and Tim Rice (Jesus Christ Superstar), and it's spent the last 50-plus years taking to stages all over the world. This dazzling new production stars Paulini (Australian Idol, The Bodyguard) as The Narrator, Euan Fistrovic Doidge (Kinky Boots, Priscilla Queen of the Desert) as Joseph, and Trevor Ashley (Hairspray, Les Misérables) as Pharaoh. They'll be performing all the favourite tunes that the show is known for, so 'Any Dream Will Do', 'Close Every Door To Me', 'Jacob and Sons', 'There's One More Angel in Heaven' and 'Go Go Go Joseph' will all be gracing your eardrums. To get the latest look at that delightfully dreamy coat – and a theatre experience like no other – get your tickets now. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is playing now at Sydney's Capitol Theatre and wraps up its run in April. For more information and to get your tickets, visit the website.
If you've been hoping to dance like Christopher Walken, pretend you're in Cruel Intentions, or just get transported back to the late 90s and early 00s when Fatboy Slim returns to Australia in 2025, and you're in Sydney, you might've been making out-of-town plans. When he dropped his latest tour dates, the British dance-music legend's only New South Wales appearance was in Bowral. Thanks to a just-announced new addition to his Australian itinerary, however, you can now hit up Roundhouse in the Harbour City for one night only as well. For the third time in the 2020s, Fatboy Slim is heading to Australia to break out 'Right Here, Right Now', 'The Rockafeller Skank', 'Praise You' and plenty more dance-floor fillers. After touring the country in 2020 and 2023, he's returning in March 2025 on what's now a six-stop trip, four of which will get him spinning tunes in wineries — with his Sydney gig his only indoor show. [caption id="attachment_975624" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Selbymay via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] For the NSW capital, he's slotted in Tuesday, March 18, a few days after he'll play Centennial Vineyards in Bowral. The tour kicks off in Perth, at the only other show that isn't at a vineyard, on Friday, March 14. After Bowral and Sydney, Fatboy Slim is then off to Peter Lehmann Wines in the Barossa Valley, Mt Duneed Estate in Geelong and Sirromet Wines in Mount Cotton. While DJ Seinfeld, CC:DISCO! and Jennifer Loveless are supporting the UK legend at his other five gigs, special guests for his exclusive headline Sydney show haven't yet been revealed. [caption id="attachment_975623" align="alignnone" width="1920"] neal whitehouse piper via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] Norman Cook has been making music since the 80s, but took on the name Fatboy Slim in the mid-90s, starting with 1996 record Better Living Through Chemistry. His 1998 album You've Come a Long Way, Baby was the club soundtrack to end the 20th century — a staple of every 90s teen's CD collection, too. As for 2000's Halfway Between the Gutter and the Stars, it gave the world 'Weapon of Choice' and its iconic Walken-starring (and Spike Jonze-directed) video. Fatboy Slim's discography also spans 2004 album Palookaville and 2013 single 'Eat, Sleep, Rave, Repeat'. [caption id="attachment_878696" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Carlos Luna / Secretaría de Cultura CDMX via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] You might not be able to dance along the walls when Cook hits the decks — but you'll want to thanks to his big beat sound. Indeed, alongside the Chemical Brothers, The Prodigy, Basement Jaxx, The Propellerheads and Crystal Method, he helped bring the style to mainstream fame.If you've seen Cook live before — or the epic live video from his 2020 Melbourne gig at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl that's notched up more than 3.2-million views — then you'll know that any Fatboy Slim tour is always news to get excited about right about now. Fatboy Slim 2025 Australian Tour Friday, March 14 — Langley Park, Perth Saturday, March 15 — Centennial Vineyards, Bowral Tuesday, March 18 — Roundhouse, Sydney Friday, March 21 — Peter Lehmann Wines, Barossa Valley Saturday, March 22 — Mt Duneed Estate, Geelong Sunday, March 23 — Sirromet Wines, Mount Cotton [caption id="attachment_878697" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Secretaría de Cultura de la Ciudad de México via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] Fatboy Slim is touring Australia in March 2025. Ticket presales for his Roundhouse show in Sydney start from 10am AEDT on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, with general sales from 10am AEDT on Friday, February 15, 2025. Head to the tour website for more details. Top image: Selbymay via Wikimedia Commons.
No one spent a winter weekend dancing in a North Byron Bay Parklands field at Splendour in the Grass in 2024. No one will do that in 2025, either. After 2024's festival was cancelled just weeks after unveiling its Kylie Minogue-, Future- and Arcade Fire-led lineup, the Splendour crew has advised that there'll also be no fest this year. "Hey gang, sorry it's been so quiet, but we had a little holiday ... finally. The rest of the festival team have still been busy cooking up some awesome new things for music lovers in Australia, but Splendour needs a little more time to recharge and we won't be back this year," said organisers in a statement on social media. "Think of it as a breather so we can come back even bigger and better when the time is right. Lots of other huge events on the horizon so keep an ear to the ground in the coming months — we can't wait to share what we've been working on!" View this post on Instagram A post shared by Splendour in the Grass (@splendourinthegrass) Notably, the statement about 2025's event doesn't confirm that the festival will return in 2026, but rather says that it'll be back "when the time is right". For now, put those glittery gumboots away for at least this year, in what proves another heartbreaking piece of news for Australia's live music industry. When Splendour scrapped its 2024 plans, it did so after revealing its roster of acts, and also followed on from a heap of other cancellations across the Aussie festival scene. Groovin the Moo ditched its 2024 events just a fortnight after announcing its lineup. Also, Falls Festival took summer 2023–24 off, Summergrounds Music Festival at Sydney Festival was cancelled and This That hasn't gone ahead for a couple of years. Since Splendour cancelled, Yours and Owls ditched its 2024 fest, as did Spilt Milk and Adelaide's Harvest Rock. Dark Mofo took a breather, too, while Mona Foma called time forever after its 2024 event. Bluesfest also revealed that it would say farewell after its 2025 fest, but it has been reported that that might no longer be the case. "With a heavy heart, we're announcing the cancellation of Splendour in the Grass 2024," said the Splendour team in a statement last year. "We know there were many fans excited for this year's lineup and all the great artists planning to join us, but due to unexpected events we'll be taking the year off. Ticketholders will be refunded automatically by Moshtix. We thank you for your understanding and will be working hard to be back in future years." "We're heartbroken to be missing a year, especially after more than two decades in operation. This festival has always been a huge community effort, and we'd like to thank everyone for their support and overall faith. We hope to be back in the future," added Jessica Ducrou and Paul Piticco, co-CEOs of Secret Sounds. 2024's event would've marked the festival's 22nd birthday — and its third COVID-19-era fest, following the supremely muddy 2022 iteration (which was delayed for the two years due to the pandemic's early days) and 2023's go-around. Splendour in the Grass won't take place in 2025. For more information, head to the festival website. Images: Charlie Hardy, Bianca Holderness and Claudia Ciapocha.
If you're a sucker for craft beers and hinterland views, we have some excellent news for you. Wandana Brewing Co in Mullumbimby is hosting a beer- and food-fuelled event as part of the North Coast Festival of Flavour. Make tracks to Mullumbimby on Saturday, June 4 for an introduction to matching craft beer with artisanal food at Bites and Brews. Throughout the 1.5-hour session you'll learn how each beer is uniquely fermented to the vibrations of music and discover which foods complement the flavours of each brew. Plus, produce from regional, small-scale producers will be curated by Table Under A Tree, providing everything from fine cheeses to aged charcuterie to snack on as you sample the tasty tipples from Wandana Brewing Co. The location itself is spectacular and features sweeping views of the hinterland and beyond. And, being a short drive from Byron Bay and its neighbouring beachside towns, this is the perfect excuse to plan an escape to this picturesque region. Bites and Brews will take place on Saturday, June 4, as part of the North Coast Festival of Flavour. For more information and to book your ticket, visit the website.
UPDATE, August 23: By popular demand, Menzies are extending their Hits series for another eight weeks. Week one of The Hits round two, from August 26–31, will star the Naples classic paccheri alla Genovese, followed by a victory lap for spaghetti vongole from September 2–7. Rigatoni alla vermouth returns September 9–14, before the Roman crowd-pleaser linguini carbonara enters the kitchen September 16–21. The second half of the series begins with the rustic gem spaghetti alla puttanesca from September 23–28, followed by a rich yet elegant pork ziti alla gricia from September 30–October 5. The final fortnight spotlights pappardelle with Italian sausage, from October 7–12 before the ever-popular risotto nero returns to close out the series from October 14–19. Back by popular demand, the refined street-level diner at Shell House, Menzies Bar and Bistro, is serving weekly revivals of its most beloved pasta dishes. From July 1, a different Italian crowd-pleaser will take the spotlight each week for eight weeks. Not only are these dishes proven favourites with Menzies' diners, but they're also a way to indulge in a fine-dining experience without breaking the bank — an all-too-important consideration in these times of tightened belts and spiralling living costs. Each pasta dish costs just $25 and diners can add a glass of wine to help wash it down for just $10 more. The series launches on Monday, July 1, with thick ribbons of pappardelle served with a rich traditional bolognese. From Monday, July 8, herby and hearty Italian sausage stars in the baked pasta dish, salsiccia conchiglioni. The classic drunken pasta recipe rigatoni alla vermouth is next up from Monday, July 15, followed by Venice's famous white clam dish, spaghetti vongole, from Monday, July 22. Closing out the first month of pasta hits on Monday, July 29, is a rustic braised pork maccheroni. Rome's cheesiest export, bucatini cacio e pepe, prepared in a wheel of pecorino romano, kicks off month two of the series on Monday, August 5, before the kitchen heads to Naples with the quintessential meatball dish, spaghetti con polpette, from Monday, August 12. To close out the eight-week celebration of Italian fare, from Monday, August 19, diners can enjoy a slight deviation from the pasta theme, with a rich and glossy risotto of squid ink and clams. This deliciously affordable offer will be available during both lunch and dinner services, Monday–Saturday. Buon appetito, Sydney.
It's great to walk into somewhere that knows exactly what kind of place it is and doesn't pretend to be anything else. Welcome to Fourth Village, the boisterous and bustling Italian providore, delicatessen and restaurant nestled on the lower north shore. The burrata, marinated octopus, fresh pasta, gelato bar and entirely Italian staff make you feel like you've stepped off the cobblestone streets of Milan into Italian manna heaven. The pearl necklaces and polo shirts of the Fourth Village customers however, remind you that you've stepped off Military road and into one of Mosman's most popular eateries. Fourth Village is a family business, with Peter Quattroville, (whose last name literally translates to four villages) and sons distributing olives, preserves and produce from their family farm in NSW to the generously-laden shelves. They all roam the floor serving, greeting and directing the hoards who might be picking up some oxheart tomatoes, wood roasted olives or fresh loaves of ciabatta. This is a beautiful, bountiful providore with fresh fruit and veg, handmade antipasti, cured meats, a fully stocked cheese room and quality Italian pantry staples. It's open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. After the cashiers close up for the day the shop's floor is partially cleared and tables are set in amongst the shelves. This transition not only imparts the ethos of this place, but exudes the family's passion for food, while also accommodating the overflowing main seating area. The main attraction here is the wood fired pizzas which are some of the best on the north shore. Soft and floppy in the middle, crisp and slightly singed on the crust, sparsely topped with quality ingredients. They tick all the right boxes. A Romeo e Guliana ($24) has Italian fontina and a few dots of gorgonzola, with sweet roasted capsicum balancing hot salami. Freshly made tagliatelle with shellfish, garlic and chilli ($28) is generous and beautiful in its simplicity of flavour. There's a decent mix of Italian beer and wine on offer, like everything here, it's not too expensive and family friendly. Don't expect table linens or whispered voices here. Fourth Village, like going to any Italian home means you're dragged into a fun, loud place where good food is never far away.
A mainstay in the Sydney live music scene, The Metro Theatre is an independent venue that has hosted some of the world's best rock n' roll acts — both local and international. The grungy space has been rocking for decades now and has seen the likes of Muse, Placebo, The Eels, Alex Lloyd and The Dandy Warhols take the stage. More often than not, the theatre focuses on emerging talent, but you can catch bigger acts there from time to time, too. If you're looking to impress for your next gathering, you can even hire out The Metro for all of your nearest and dearest mates.
Eating at Mother Chu's Vegetarian Kitchen is like sitting down to a plate of mum's best nutritious yet delicious comfort food. That is, if your mother is a 90-something Taiwanese woman with a passion for vegan cooking. Specialising in MSG-free vegan dishes, Mother Chu's has developed somewhat of a cult vego following in Sydney. Meals here, I was told before arriving, are consistently delicious; they promise to leave you feeling full and happy. Located in an unassuming spot at 367 Pitt Street, Mother Chu's is a haven for hungry vegetarians. Though its tables are often full, I'm lucky enough to find a place to sit. Perusing the menu is a little daunting; what exactly is a soya bean slice? And how does one concoct crispy gluten? I decide to go out on a limb and (bolstered by a recommendation from a roommate) order the glazed honey gluten with walnuts. The gluten (which turns out to be little crispy chunks of goodness) is perfectly sweetened by the honey. The sugary touch is enough to lend it flavour, but not make it overwhelmingly dessert-like. The walnuts add a satisfying crunch. As a second option, I order the crispy bean curd (which is essentially lightly fried tofu) with shiitake mushrooms, broccoli, and carrots. The veggies are insanely fresh and colourful, and the addition of the mushroom-and-pepper sauce adds complexity and savoury flavour. Simple, yet delectable, much like the whole of the restaurant itself. Minimal décor and a no-alcohol policy at Mother Chu's allows the food to take centre stage. Fresh, vegan, and healthy, all at a low price, these dishes deserve attention. Non-vegos: don't be put off by the lack of meat at this little place. I can guarantee you'll find something to enjoy, and plenty of reason to return.
Embracing the supposedly most romantic day of the year doesn't have to mean breaking the bank. To the delight of budget-conscious paramours everywhere, it truly is the thought that counts on Valentine's Day. But you can want to woo your boo with your loving gestures and still be keen to give them roses — and a bottle of rosé for you to share together — without being horrified at how much you've spent, especially in these inflation-heavy times. Enter ALDI, favourite of discount lovers not just Australia-wide but overseas, and the source of quite the Valentine's Day bargain. To mark the rose-filled occasion in 2023, the supermarket chain is doing a dozen roses for $25 today, Tuesday, February 14 itself, in case you've left everything to the last minute. Say cheers to those blooms and your significant other with a bottle of $4.99 South Point Estate rosé to go with it — but only if you don't live in Queensland or South Australia, because ALDI's supermarkets in those states don't sell alcohol. Fancy just a single rose? That'll cost you $8, and the chain is also doing other seasonal bouquets for various prices. Who said scoring a bargain at ALDI wasn't romantic? No one. ALDI's Valentine's Day special is available at the chain's stores, with a dozen roses for $25 on offer Australia-wide, and a dozen roses with a bottle of rosé on offer everywhere except Queensland and South Australia.
The best of recent Japanese cinema is making the long trip south. With more than 45 films across a bunch of cities including Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and now, for the first time, Auckland, the Japanese Film Festival is the single largest event of its kind outside of Japan itself. This year's program is as diverse as ever, showcasing comedies, dramas, horror films, anime, and a rap-battle Yakuza musical showdown. Unfortunately for film buffs in Brisbane and Auckland, that last title, Sion Sono's utterly bonkers Tokyo Tribe, will only screen in Sydney and Melbourne. But there's plenty on the program for everyone to enjoy, including last year's smash hit time travel comedy Thermae Romae, along with its recently released sequel, Thermae Romae II. J-horror fans can check out Ju-On: The Beginning of the End, the seventh entry in the hair-raising franchise better known in English as The Grudge. A live-action adaptation of Kiki's Delivery Service, meanwhile, is the hot tip for lovers of Studio Ghibli's animated original. For the full JFF program, visit their website.
Bondi's fun-loving beachside spot The Bucket List is teaming up with French vodka distiller Grey Goose to bring a bit of French Riviera to Sydney's coastline. Running from Thursday, January 9 until Monday, February 10, the pop-up is the perfect way for you to embrace summer. The outdoor space will be decked out with Riviera-inspired decor, creating a chic Euro-summer feel — think beach umbrellas, leafy plants in blue and white ceramic pots and and a pop-up beach shack-like bar in the venue's outdoor area. Plus, you'll have top-notch views of Bondi Beach — so be sure to head here for a sunset cocktail (and a photo with Australia's most famous beach as your backdrop). Drinks-wise, you'll be sipping a range of speciality vodka cocktails. And, as Grey Goose is such a versatile spirit, you can bet the bartenders will be mixing up a range of drinks. So, whether you're into the classic vodka, lime and soda, watermelon or grapefruit spritz, a salted caramel frappe cocktail or a coconut cooler, the pop-up will be sure to quench your thirst. Head down on Tuesday, January 14 at 6pm for the launch party, which will see espresso martini gelato being handed out and DJ Dolso playing dance-worthy tunes. You'll also catch a slew of DJs on the upcoming long weekend, with the likes of Jack Toohey, Geo and The Aston Shuffle helping you celebrate your extra day off. Or you can hit up the beachside pop-up on any Saturday for The Bucket List Beach Club, where you can dance from 2pm well into the night. For any other summer events, check out The Bucket List's Instagram.
Run clubs are all the rage these days, with thousands of people coming together each week for a dopamine-boosting combo of movement and social encounters. However, this weekend welcomes the launch of a new kind of run club — one that encourages Aussies to get active in support of rescue pets. Lacing up for the cause is Young Australian of the Year and run club final boss, Nedd Brockmann. But it's not just his inspirational feats pounding pavement that make Nedd the ideal event ambassador; his own pup, Dougie, was a rescue. Although 66 percent of Aussies think rescue dogs are 'tricky,' the truth is these good boys and girls have so much love to give. "Dougie came into my life as a rescue, and he's been my best running partner ever since. There are so many dogs like him who just need someone to give them a chance — and maybe a good run too. Rescue dogs aren't broken or hard work; they just need the right mate to match their energy," says Brockmann. The campaign kicks off on Friday, February 20, with runners of all stripes invited to eat up a couple of k's in support of rescue pets. Then, share your run using #PetbarnFoundationRescueRunClub and tag @NeddBrockmann and @Petbarn to help spread the word. Alternatively, rescue pet owners can attend the launch at Rushcutters Bay Park from 6.30am to see Nedd in action and chat with like-minded adopters.
Breaking TV viewing records, progressing further into the World Cup than any Australian soccer team before, smashing their way into the 2024 Paris Olympics: the Matildas are having a helluva 12 months. They're also getting a Brisbane statue, and inspired 'Matilda' to be chosen as 2023's word of the year. Add featuring in their second documentary in a year to the squad's achievements, too, with Trailblazers headed to Stan. In 2023, docuseries Matildas: The World at Our Feet chronicled the current team's path to the 2023 Women's World Cup. In 2024, Trailblazers will take a broader look at the Tillies' story, and also at women's football in Australia. Sam Kerr, Steph Catley, Mary Fowler, Ellie Carpenter, Katrina Gorry and Teagan Micah all feature as interviewees — but chronicling the Matildas' journey before their current success is also the doco's aim. If your obsession with the Tillies started in July 2023, this is your chance to dive into the first FIFA-recognised game in 1979, the team's 2015 strike for equal pay and its fortunes at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics — and to reflect upon the the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 in Australia and New Zealand, and the squad's qualification for Paris. So, you'll hear from and about earlier players, such as first-ever Matildas captain Julie Dolan, alongside Kerr and company. The Matildas' first Indigenous female player Karen Menzies also features among the discussions, as do fellow past players Melissa Barbieri, Kate Gill and Moya Dodd. Tommy Sermanni, who coached the Tillies from 1994–97 and 2005–12, also gets chatting. And, so does ex-Socceroos captain-turned-commentator Craig Foster. Stan will stream Trailblazers sometime in the lead up to the Paris Olympics, with an exact release date not yet announced. Behind the scenes, Maggie Miles (Dare to Be Different) and Maggie Eudes produce, write and direct the documentary — aka your next chance to revel in all things Tillies. If you want to wear green and gold while watching, or the newly released (and soldout) purple Mackenzie Arnold goalkeeper kit if you got your hands on one, that's up to you. Trailblazers is set to stream via Stan before the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, which take place from Friday, July 16–Sunday, August 11. We'll update you when an exact release date for the documentary is announced.
Just ten short years ago, few people cared about Westerosi power struggles, how many times Sean Bean dies on-screen, if Jon Snow really does know nothing and whether winter is coming. Game of Thrones has existed on the page since 1991, but it was the first season of HBO's huge fantasy-drama series in 2011 that made that three-word title a household term, got everyone hooked on the fight to assume the Iron Throne and had us all watching along for seven more action-packed seasons. Over the past decade, no TV series was bigger — not only in popularity and pop culture impact, but when it comes to small-screen battles and bloodshed, plus labyrinthine plots filled with cunning plotting and double-crossing. Oh, and dragons, too. Whether you loved or hated how it ended, Game of Thrones is always going to sit high on everyone's rewatch list (because, let's face it, everyone has watched it once already).
Going into Scream VI, viewers know who the killer definitely isn't: the horror franchise's OG final girl Sidney Prescott. Neve Campbell's (The Lincoln Lawyer) character has been a pivotal part of every Ghostface-stalked flick from 1996's initial Scream through to 2022's fifth entry Scream, but famously isn't in the stab-happy saga's latest chapter due to a pay dispute. That's one big change for returning filmmakers Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett to grapple with in their second slice of the blood-splattering, scary movie-loving action. À la Friday the 13th Part VIII: Jason Takes Manhattan — which gets an early nod, naturally — they also move said action to New York. But even if you take Ghostface and the murderer's targets out of Woodsboro, and shake up who the masked maniac swings a knife at, Scream is going to Scream in a screamingly familiar fashion. It has before in Ohio in Scream 2 and Hollywood in Scream 3, and the series knows it. New movie, new city, same setup, same gravelly Roger L Jackson voice, same 'Red Right Hand' needle drop, same overall formula: throw in the same winking, nodding, self-referential attitude, plus the same penchant for mentioning horror movies, their tropes and cliches, and general film theory, and that's Scream VI's easy cut. Once again, someone dons Ghostface's ghost face, of course, and uses whichever blade happens to be in the vicinity (and a shotgun) to terrorise teens and long-victimised targets. Murder Mystery's James Vanderbilt and Ready or Not's Guy Busick haven't taxed themselves with the screenplay — their second Scream effort, after the previous flick — but the franchise's pattern keeps making a comeback for a reason. While intrepid reporter Gale Weathers (Courteney Cox, Shining Vale) notes the world's current "true-crime limited series" obsession, whodunnits and murder-mysteries date back further, and that's where every Scream instalment has also carved a niche since the late, great Wes Craven and Dawson's Creek creator Kevin Williamson started things off. With Sidney happily explained away, Sam Carpenter (Melissa Barrera, In the Heights) is Ghostface's present obsession. She was last time, too, which didn't end well for some of her friends and acquaintances. A year later, she's in the Big Apple because that's where younger sister Tara (Jenna Ortega, Wednesday) goes to college, and Sam isn't keen to let her out of her sight. Horror movie fanatic Mindy Meeks-Martin (Jasmin Savoy Brown, Yellowjackets) and her twin Chad (Mason Gooding, Love, Victor) are also new-ish ex-Woodsboro kids on campus. And, when bodies start piling up, starting with the saga's obligatory and engagingly effective cold open — with Samara Weaving (Babylon) reuniting with her Ready or Not directors to follow in Drew Barrymore (Santa Clarita Diet), Jada Pinkett Smith (The Matrix Resurrections) and the like's footsteps — Scream VI's core four have another date with a psychopath. Sam, Tara, Mindy and Chad also have fresh-faced NYC company, adding to the suspect pool. Sam and Tara are bunking with sex-positive roommate Quinn Bailey (Liana Liberato, A Million Little Things), who has a police detective (Dermot Mulroney, Umma) for an overprotective father. Chad does the same with the studious Ethan Landry (Jack Champion, Avatar: The Way of Water), while Mindy is dating Anika Kayoko (Devyn Nekoda, Sneakerella). Plus, Sam is enjoying a secret fling with neighbour Danny Brackett (Josh Segarra, She-Hulk: Attorney at Law). Because they're all well and truly in a franchise — when Mindy gives her obligatory lecture about what movie conventions dictate should happen next, she expands beyond just horror films to ever-sprawling sagas — Gale hightails it to campus when murders start occurring, and Scream 4's Kirby Reed (Hayden Panettiere, Nashville) also finds reason to drop by. Sadly, when Mindy does get a-babbling about "the rules", she mentions a word that no one who saw 2022's Scream should ever want to hear again: requel. At least that term for do-overs that stick with an established timeline, bring back legacy characters, but pump in new blood to also give the original a remake doesn't then get splashed around as frenetically as Ghostface splashes gore in this followup. Scream VI doesn't get to insufferable levels of geeking out, either — that its predecessor did even for the most adoring horror-movie fans, aka the series' main audience, was an unwanted feat but a feat nonetheless — instead satirising itself by literally asking "who gives a fuck about movies?". Still, Mindy's whole speech, surveying her pals, assessing who is likely to kill or be killed, and waxing irreverent about scary film and franchise lore, shows how beholden Scream VI is to the saga's standard formula. Accordingly, don't believe Mindy when she says this isn't a requel sequel: it is. Also don't believe her when she states that old rules no longer apply: they patently do. Don't believe Mindy when she starts talking about subverting expectations as well, claiming that franchises will only keep on keeping on if they do just that. The horror genre gushes with ongoing series — some namechecked in Scream VI — that've proven the exact opposite because viewers showed up anyway, and little in this Scream entry upends the saga's basics. In fact, the big reveal is dispiritingly by-the-numbers, lacking the smart and savage commentary that helped improve the last Scream's choice of culprit in the process. Noting the wearing nature of living with trauma is a meaningful touch, but never deeply explored. The shoutout to franchise fatigue is also far more superficial than any Ghostface-caused gash. Plus, though focusing on Sam's inner turmoil has the potential to get the inevitable seventh flick to truly try something different, the callback that comes with the storyline is already clunky and played out. Scream VI is still fun enough as a slasher-comedy-slash-whodunnit; staging that slashing, plus the suspense and sleuthing around it, remains Bettinelli-Olpin and Gillett's best Scream-relevant skill. That was never in doubt after Ready or Not, and their aforementioned cold open here is entertaining, playful and expertly executed. The New York setting sparks stabbings in alleyways, subways and bodegas, all impressively and tensely shot — although Montreal makes a particularly unconvincing Big Apple. And if you're going to stick with business as usual no matter what the sassy dialogue promises, Barrera, Savoy Brown, stalwart Cox, eagerly anticipated returnee Panettiere, and especially growing scream queen (see also: X and Studio 666) Ortega and always-welcome The Other Two star Segarra, are killer company.
Lovers of fresh flavours rejoice because the latest project from the Plate It Forward venue group (the team behind Colombo Social, Kyiv Social and Kabul Social) has arrived on King Street. Kolkata Social, helmed by chef Ahana Dutt (Firedoor, Raja), is dishing up recipes from Kolkata, India, with a focus on fresh and seasonal ingredients and good karma by the plate. Over the past six months, Dutt has spent nearly 900 hours in Plate It Forward's training and mentorship program, working with 19 refugee and asylum-seeker women. Eight of these women have since taken up leadership roles within the company. But the partnership between the chef and the hospo group has truly blossomed now, with Kolkata Social marking Plate it Forward's fourth venue and giving Dutt the opportunity to showcase a seasonal, produce-driven menu sourced mostly from the Kolkata-born chef's own family kitchen. It's a new step forward in diversifying Sydney's familiarity with wider Indian cuisine, encouraging diners to steer clear of Westernised favourites they'd find at their local Indian joint in favour of bold Bengali flavours. On that, Dutt notes: "I wanted the menu to represent me. It was a way for me to introduce people to Bengali food through recipes that I've grown up with. I wanted to show people that Bengali food is Indian food, as well as the corollary that Indian food is more than butter chicken and naan. The food at Kolkata Social is a way for me to not only hold on to but celebrate my heritage in a different country." Said menu is home to highlights like paturi — spiced ricotta wrapped in a banana leaf and lightly caramelised — radhabollobhi — fried flatbread with a spiced lentil filling — and smoked barramundi, fried in mustard oil and served with a sauce of yoghurt, cardamom and green chillies. For dessert, a family specialty: vanilla pound cake served with saffron yoghurt cream and seasonal fruit. The cocktails offer equally colourful originals and spins on classic serves. Like the Mini Mustard Martini, a Kolkata-inspired take on a gibson, or the Southside 700029, a riff on the mojito-esque classic that references the postcode of one of Kolkata's buzziest neighbourhoods. If you need a lassi to fight the heat of the dishes, go for the Spiked Lassi: a spiked yoghurt slushy with saffron. Brew lovers can try the house Kolkata Lager, made exclusively for the restaurant by multi award-winning Blue Mountains brewery Mountain Culture. It's not just the menu that Dutt has overseen at Kolkata Social — she also lent her vision to the restaurant's look and feel. Each room is colour-blocked and monochromatic, featuring hues inspired by the architecture of Kolkata. Vibrant artworks adorn the walls, some of which were painted by Dutt's uncle, Somnath Basu Thakur. And like other Plate it Forward venues, there's a mural celebrating wisdom, love and community created by and bestowed on others by the amazing women, mothers and grandmothers of the world. Kolkata's piece, painted by artist Marlon Dalton, depicts Dutt's mother, Sharmila Basu Thaur. Like its siblings in the Plate it Forward family, Kolkata Social employs women in need of their first jobs in Australia and works with overseas charities to provide meals to those who need them most. Any diner who purchases the set menu will be responsible for two meals donated to those in need, one in Sydney and one in Kolkata. So, in a certain sense, every booking brings both good food and a bit of good into the world. Find Kolkata Social at 528-528A King Street, Newtown. For more information and opening hours, visit the venue's website. Images: Serhat Karakas.
Yes, 2020 has felt like the longest year ever. But October and November are almost here, which means that it's almost Halloween and Dias de los Muertos time. So, at El Camino Cantina's Sydney locations, it's marking the occasion with a Day of the Dead and Halloween Fiesta. From Tuesday, October 20–Saturday, November 7, El Camino's The Rocks, Manly, Miranda and Entertainment Quarter eateries will be getting in the celebratory mood in a number of ways. The tastiest: a two-hour food and drink package, which'll see you eat your way through tortilla chips and salsa, buffalo wings with blue cheese mayo and guacamole, chargrilled chicken fajitas, and churros with chocolate and caramel sauce. Costing $89 per person, it also includes margaritas both frozen and on the rocks, plus house beer and wine, and soft drinks. And, you'll get a gift bag, too. If you're more interested in inventive margarita flavours, a heap of new varieties will be on offer — in 15-ounce glasses for $20 and in 24-ounce glasses for $24. Sip your way through Devil Chilli (watermelon, chilli and chilli salt), Walking Dead (passionfruit), Ghost Drop (blueberry) and Poison Apple (sour apple) types at all stores, or grab a tasting paddle of four for $30. At The Rocks, there'll also be six other kinds on offer: Skittle Bomb, Mad Scientist (grape), Sour Strap (strawberry), Snake Bite (raspberry), Whizz Fizz (orange) and Potion of Love (lychee). Also, depending on the day of the week, there'll be something else on the bill as well — new taco flavours on Tuesdays, super-spicy buffalo wings with limited-edition habanero and teriyaki sauces on Wednesdays, and $20 fajita and marg combos on Thursdays, for instance. On Saturdays at The Rocks, DJs will also spin tunes — including on Saturday, October 31, when you're encouraged to dress up, obviously. [caption id="attachment_784643" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Michael Gribbin[/caption] El Camino Cantina's Day of the Dead and Halloween Fiesta takes place from Tuesday, October 20–Saturday, November 7 at its The Rocks, Manly, Miranda and Entertainment Quarter stores. Images: Michael Gribbin.
Acclaimed London and Miami bar Sexy Fish is sparing no expense in launching its new cocktail menu. The renowned international venue is taking to six continents (sorry Antarctica) to unveil its latest creations, enlisting the help of four host bars across the globe to join in. Luckily for us, one of those bars is right here in Sydney, with South Eveleigh's Re- the representative from Australia. The menu launch will take place on Monday, March 6, with Sexy Fish's two venues premiering the boundary-pushing displays of mixology alongside Cape Town's Cause Effect, EL BARON in Cartagena, Zest in Seoul, and Re-. Arriving from Matt Whiley and Maurice Terzini in 2021 with a focus on sustainability and an exciting drinks list, Re- will showcase 20 cocktail creations, including 16 alcoholic combos and four non-alcoholic variations. "Re- is thrilled to have been chosen as the Australian counterpart for the launch of Sexy Fish's new cocktail menu, Trinity," says Whiley. "We've loved working with Sexy Fish to create their Trinity menu Down Under, ensuring our sharp focus on local ingredients and sustainability continue to lead the way with drinks, preferencing innovation and taste while minimising waste." Highlights from the menu include a coconut and lemongrass cocktail featuring Absolut Elyx vodka and sake; a playful creation made with marshmallow-infused gin and fortified wines; and the Coffee and Toast, which combines brown butter-infused mezcal, coffee, caramel, Campari and manzanilla. "This is such an exciting project and the first time we have launched a brand-new menu across six continents on the same day with our full Sexy Fish menu and original glassware," Director of Bars at Caprice Holdings Xavier Landais said. "Incredibly, guests visiting our host bars will be able to enjoy the full Sexy Fish experience for one night only, whether they are in Australia, Colombia, South Africa or South Korea." Re- will open especially for this world-spanning cocktail showcase on the Monday, with no bookings available — walk-ins only. If you want to taste what Sexy Fish has been whipping up, just venture down to South Eveleigh early and nab a spot at the bar. You can try the new cocktail menu from Maimi and London's Sexy Fish at Re- for one night only on Monday, March 6.
The terrace garden atop the Paramount Recreation Club is seeing out March in style, with a sunset session featuring DJs, natural wine, refreshing cocktails, craft beer and fun snacks. On Saturday, March 27, a slew of both up-and-coming and established DJs represented by booking agency Fruit Bowl will hit the decks from 3–8pm — all while you get sipping. On the bill: Ben Fester, Bobby Vibe Positive, Casey, Champain Lyf and Cousin, plus Deepa, Eureka, Freda, Freda and Jackson, Honey Point, IV Drip and Niku. There'll be market-style food to snack on as well, so expect to slurp down oysters, tuck into Japanese-inspired skewers from the hibachi grill and and enjoy The Rec Club signature salads as you watch day turn to night. Entry is free, but it's a first come, first in kind of deal, so arriving early is highly recommended. Images: Declan Blackall Photography / PRC Media.
New Year's Eve means different things to different people — but if celebrating it in the biggest way possible is your approach each year, then you've likely either made a date with Beyond The Valley before or wanted to. Need some motivation to head to the festival at Barunah Plains in Victoria to celebrate 2025 turning into 2026? Dom Dolla, Addison Rae, Kid Cudi and Turnstile should be plenty. That's who is headlining across the Sunday, December 28, 2025–Thursday, January 1, 2026 event — and yes, if you fancy spending the New Year's Eve countdown with Dom Dolla, you can. This lineup is also a helluva way for Beyond The Valley to mark a milestone, given that it's the fest's tenth anniversary. Dom Dolla will cap off a year that's already spanned soldout Madison Square Garden gigs, plus stints at Lollapalooza, Bonnaroo, EDC Las Vegas and Ultra Miami — and will see him play his biggest-ever Aussie headline show at Allianz Stadium in Sydney in December. For Addison Rae, this is her Australian festival debut. Kid Cudi heads Down Under for the first time in a decade, too. The lineup also spans Spacey Jane, I Hate Models, KETTAMA, Chris Stussy, Ben Böhmer, The Temper Trap and Luude, plus JoJo doing an Australian-exclusive show, as well as 070 Shake, DJ HEARTSTRING, VTSS, SWIM, Pegassi, Channel Tres, Balu Brigada, Fcukers, Jane Remover, Miss Kaninna and a heap more. New for 2025 is The Lounge Room, with Kat Sasso hosting podcasters and other folks getting chatting — such as Undiagnosed Anthony; AFL footballer Tom Mitchell with the Ball Magnets podcast; more Aussie Rules stars thanks to Sam Draper, Nick Butler and Charlie Comben; Dr Esmé Louise James; Sez; Ash McGregor; and David The Medium. Plus, stage-wise, the Valley Stage is getting a new look and the Dance Dome is scoring a revamp. You'll also be able to enjoy a wellness program featuring meditation, saunas and cold plunges, for relaxing between sets. Beyond the Valley 2025 Lineup Dom Dolla Addison Rae Kid Cudi Turnstile Spacey Jane I Hate Models KETTAMA Chris Stussy Ben Böhmer The Temper Trap Luude JoJo 070 Shake DJ HEARTSTRING VTSS Patrick Mason SWIM Prospa Josh Baker NOTION Pegassi Cassian Channel Tres Mallrat Balu Brigada Fcukers glaive Jazzy ZULAN sim0ne TEED Bad Boombox b2b mischluft Clouds bullet tooth KILIMANJARO Narciss not without friends Juicy Romance Ollie Lishman Chromeo (DJ set) RONA. Bella Claxton DICE Jane Remover Julia Wolf Young Franco Kaiit Miss Kaninna 49th & Main Dombresky BL3SS Torren Foot B2B Airwolf Paradise ATRIP Linska CYRIL HoneyLuv Larissa Lambert Inside Kru Tyson O'Brien SYREETA TV Rock Willo Sex Mask BOY SODA The Tullamarines EGOISM Chloe Parché Brent Honey Emma Moon Morphena MAD.DAY Mell Hall Tina Disco Séarlait House Mum B2B Haus of Ralph Loosie Grind Afrodisiac B2B Baby G Cooper Smith Mon Franco Bertie Shanti The Lounge Room hosted by Kat Sasso 200 Plus Ash McGregor Ball Magnets Club Elevate David The Medium Esmé Louise James Sez Undiagnosed Anthony Teach Us Consent Beyond The Valley images: Lady Drewniak, Ashlea Caygill, Kelsey Zafiridies.
It took 30 years, plus a warp pipe from live-action to animation, but Super Mario Bros finally gained a cinematic mushroom. While these are peak product-to-screen times — see also: The Last of Us, Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves, Tetris and Air, plus the upcoming Barbie, BlackBerry and latest Transformers flick — Nintendo's plumber siblings were long flushed out of movies thanks to their underperforming first outing. 1993's Bob Hoskins (Snow White and the Huntsman) and John Leguizamo (Violent Night)-starring film, the first-ever live-action video game film, isn't terrible. It followed its own dark path and hit its own wild blocks, something that stands out even more now that slavish obsession to intellectual property and franchise-building is king. If 2023's The Super Mario Bros Movie is a response to its predecessor, it's a happily dutiful one, doing its utmost to copy the video game. The strongest feeling it inspires: making viewers want to bust out their old NES or SNES or Game Boy, or emulators of any of them, or Nintendo's current Switch, and mash buttons as the red-capped, moustachioed, overalls-wearing Mario. These are also peak product-to-screen-to-purchase times; selling more Super Mario Bros, Mario Kart and Super Smash Bros games is a clear and obvious aim of The Super Mario Bros Movie. To do that, the film truly is as enthusiastic about recreating its various source materials as Mario has been about collecting coins, completing levels and saving Princess Peach since way back in his 8-bit days. Under directors Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic, creators of Teen Titans Go!, the animation looks like it's been ported straight from the console — a feat that's hardly unexpected given that it's all shiny pixels. It's also unsurprising due to Nintendo's recent success in mirroring the games IRL in Universal's Osaka and Hollywood theme parks. The Super Mario Bros Movie will help sell more tickets to those, too. In those impressive images, Italian Americans Mario (voiced by Chris Pratt, Thor: Love and Thunder) and Luigi (Charlie Day, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia) essentially find themselves in the Super Mario Bros version of The Wizard of Oz. Like the 90s flick, they're also transported to another realm where a villainous creature lusts for power— Bowser (Jack Black, Apollo 10 1/2: A Space Age Childhood) here, with an army of the turtle-like koopas doing his bidding. A sewer flood whisks Mario and Luigi out of their own world, after they try to fix it to drum up customers for their plumbing business. On the other side of the tunnel, Mario lands in the Mushroom Kingdom and Luigi ends up Bowser's prisoner. Cue a quest, including along the rainbow road, to reunite the brothers, stop Bowser and keep him away from Peach (Anya Taylor-Joy, The Menu) — who definitely isn't a damsel in distress, but the target of Bowser's obsessive affections. Screenwriter Matthew Fogel (Minions: The Rise of Gru) has kept The Super Mario Bros Movie's story slight, just as Horvath and Jelenic ensure that the tone stays light. Still, while it might star Pratt, there's no The Lego Movie-level smarts, satire and hilarity on offer. Instead, the fun-enough picture is packed with as many nods to the games as it can possibly fit in — and to as many games as it can manage. It's been four decades since Mario Bros initially hit arcades, spinning off from Mario's 1981 introduction in the first Donkey Kong, so there's much to reference. The film brings in the big gorilla (Seth Rogen, The Fabelmans) and his simian pals (Wednesday's Fred Armisen voices Cranky Kong). It gets speeding along that beloved rainbow road, with shells flying and Mad Max: Fury Road coming to mind. The list goes on and cuts far deeper than the obvious; it isn't accurate to say it's full of Easter eggs, though, because it's simply a Super Mario Bros movie stacked with attention to Super Mario Bros detail. Released beforehand, but still a sight to see within the complete flick, Mario's arrival in the Mushroom Kingdom and his introductory tour by the mushroom-headed Toad (Keegan-Michael Key, Schmigadoon!) is a visual treasure trove. When Peach has him prove he's up to the Bowser-battling mission by hopping through an obstacle course that mirrors Super Mario Bros' levels, it's also spot on. Before that in Brooklyn, rushing to a job gets the side-scrolling treatment — and it's an entertainingly playful touch. Nintendo composer Koji Kondo's famous tunes are worked and interpreted by composer Brian Tyler (Scream VI), too, and well. Of course, a game-to-movie effort can't just splash around familiar sights and sounds, actively court nostalgia, and call it all a film. This one doesn't, but the plot remains noticeably thin, including in its siblings-stick-together theme. It's also indebted to the Minions franchise in much of Bowser and the Koopas' storyline. That's animation house Illumination cribbing from itself, given it's behind Despicable Me and its sequels and continues, and now this. If the bright, bouncy, vivid and immersive imagery is The Super Mario Bros Movie's main power-up, which it is, it's still no invincibility star. Neither is the fast pace, aka the default mode for most family-friendly animated fare that isn't made by Pixar, Studio Ghibli or Wolfwalkers' Cartoon Saloon, and where the key focus is on throwing constant chaos at kids so that they don't get distracted. And when the stock-standard needle-drops start, because every all-ages-friendly movie has to jam in recognisable songs like 'Holding Out for a Hero' and 'Take on Me' like it's a jukebox musical — a lazy and grating genre staple that won't go away — there's basic Spotify playlist vibes. It might've sparked the Gentleminions fad among cinemagoers who grew up watching yellow babbling critters, but Minions: The Rise of Gru did the same. Cosplaying in red or green outfits to The Super Mario Bros Movie, which'll happen seeing that all things Mario are that adored, won't patch over the template at work here either. Although it doesn't seem like it when the picture presses start, Horvath and Jelenic are well-aware that they can't have Pratt let's-a-going his way through the film with a stereotypical accent, and don't. They're also comically knowing about it. That said, his casting is neither a coin box nor a banana peel — but his co-stars are winningly chosen. The expressive and energetic Day helps make the case for a big-screen Luigi's Mansion outing to come next. Taylor-Joy gives Peach pluck and determination, on par with the script's commitment to make the character anything but someone who needs rescuing. Key is lively and squeaky, Black growls and pines for Peach with Tenacious D-style glee and Rogan is audibly having a ball. And, while this can't be said about the bulk of this endearingly loving but supremely by-the-numbers film, that's something that The Super Mario Bros Movie delivers but the games can't.
Filling in time before boarding will prove delicious, as Sydney Airport has revealed the new-look T3 domestic terminal's suite of food and beverage brands. With the completion date for the terminal expected by the end of the year, travellers will find a diverse range of cuisines enchanting their pre-flight check. Joining previously announced brands Maggio's, Slim's Quality Burgers and Loulou, 11 more tasty destinations round out your options. Perhaps the biggest name of all is Icebergs, a modern Italian fine diner brimming on Bondi Beach for the past 20 years. The T3 menu will feature mains like spaghetti vongole with Goolwa pipis and Pilu bottarga alongside brekkie feeds such as folded eggs with pesto on sourdough. Those familiar with chef Frank Camorra's work on Melbourne's iconic MoVida restaurants will undoubtedly head straight for Tres Tacos, a new concept based on Mexican-inspired street food. Think vibrant tacos, burritos and street market bites served with flair and fresh ingredients. Meanwhile, RaRa Ramen will be the go-to slurping spot, where classic ramen dishes are elevated with house-made noodles. "With this announcement, we're bringing our vision for a reimagined T3 dining experience to life," says Mark Zaouk, Group Executive Commercial at Sydney Airport. "From contemporary coastal dining by the iconic Icebergs team, to Frank Camorra's new concept Tres Tacos, premium pastries at Loulou, and cult-favourite ramen at RaRa Ramen, the lineup has been carefully curated to enhance the passenger experience." Opening progressively from late 2025, the 14 restaurants and eateries landing at T3 aren't the only new arrivals breathing life into the terminal redesign. Travellers will also encounter a revitalised retail offering, enhanced seating and greenery and improved wayfinding, making chilling out before your flight and finding your gate even easier. "We're proud to introduce this new mix of homegrown favourites alongside our existing global names — from Stone & Wood to Luke Mangan's Bistro & Bar — combining the best of local dining with a truly world-class terminal experience," says Zaouk. Sydney Airport's T3 dining brands will open progressively from late 2025. Head to the website for more information.
When the 2020 Emmy Awards handed out its gongs, a big upset hit the Lead Actress in a Drama category. Zendaya got the nod, and became its youngest-ever winner in the process. Of course, anyone who has watched Euphoria wasn't shocked at all. Playing Rue Bennett, a high schooler who has long tried to self-medicate her way out of her struggles, she's fantastic. She's also a major reason that the show's eight-episode first season quickly proved such a hit — and that the series will not only return for a second season, but is also dropping two specials in the interim. A sex-, drug-, lust- and love-fuelled teen drama mightn't sound like HBO's usual wheelhouse; however, fans of the US network already know one key truth: that it rarely puts a foot wrong. Not only is Euphoria vivid, energetic and dazzling to look at, but it's unflinchingly honest, raw and authentic as it follows Rue and her friends as they navigate their turbulence of being teenagers.
You may have caught Lenny Briskets serving up loaded sambos around town since the food truck first hit our streets in 2021. Bringing a taste of New York to Sydney, the roaming kitchen has built a cult following with its tender meats and generous serving sizes. Now, the Briskets team has swapped wheels for bricks with its first permanent diner, joining the likes of Mrs Palmer, South Dowling Sandwiches, Sandoitchi and The Sandwich Stop in Sydney's sandwich hub, Darlinghurst. All of the charm of the food truck's meaty menu is here, but with a solid list of craft beers and wine by the glass for those dining in. At the heart of the restaurant are the deli meats, which can be ordered on a sandwich or on their own for you to take home and get creative with yourself. There are a few signature sangas to choose from. Your instinct may be to opt for a well-worn classic like a pastrami on rye, French dipped or reuben — and you'd be right — but don't discount some of the more playful combos like the New Amsterdam, which loads up two slices of bread with barbecue brisket, American cheese, fire-roasted capsicum and Russian dressing. Each sandwich can be ordered with 150 or 300 grams of meat, depending on how ravenous you're feeling. There's also the Double El Grande — a take on the pastrami sandwich for those that like a challenge. This $38 monster is piled high with half a kilogram of Lenny Briskets' fan-favourite smoked pastrami. Venture past the sandwiches and you'll find plenty of fun options including winter soups, house-made pickles, mac 'n' cheese, onion rings, and fries loaded with queso, pastrami and jalapenos. As for the drinks, Batch and Wayward are the two breweries in charge of the beers, with their respective rosters of craft brews on offer alongside W seltzers and an eight-glass wine list featuring a little something for everyone. Each Thursday–Sunday, Lenny Briskets keeps things rolling until 9pm, turning the venue's energy from a charming lunch spot to a neighbourhood bar with top-notch eats. Head in for Batch West Coast IPA or a glass of Spanish tempranillo with a side of pickles or loaded fries.
We all follow that one Instagrammer who seems to share everything they eat — from decently presented but poorly lit cafe brunches to the monochromatic mac and cheese they're scoffing at home on a Wednesday night while watching Offspring with their poodle. So you may be pleased to know Virgin Mobile Australia is launching a new initiative that will put those somewhat annoying, always frivolous and only occasionally applause-worthy food 'grams to actual good use. Every time foodstagrammers take a photo of a meal, share it on social media and use the hashtag #mealforameal, Virgin will donate to food rescue organisation OzHarvest — absolute legends who collect surplus food from commercial outlets and deliver real meals to people who need them. The company is jumping on the 'foodporn' bandwagon but using it to give back to vulnerable people around the country. And now you and your compulsion for food snapping can get involved. To help launch the project in Sydney, Gelato Messina is serving up a new flavour made of food scraps. Really. Head to a Messina store on July 19 and try out the flavoursome experiment (which is only made from food scraps and apparently doesn't taste like food scraps). This is one situation in which you're practically required to take a photo of your food (just don't forget to tag it #mealforameal). With public opinion on foodstagramming being that it is serious business — when it's good it's highly celebrated, and when it's bad it's lambasted (even when you're Martha Stewart) — the trend isn't predicted to die out any time soon. For those who thought they'd rather never see someone else's cronut or shakshuka eggs on their feed again? Well, now there's good reason to get off your high horse and get your lens on your ceviche.
Sydney's made headlines as one of the world's most liveable cities, but it's also one of the world's most expensive cities, and it's battling a homelessness crisis. Rough sleeping rose by 24 percent in 2025, and according to the ABS, almost half of Australia's homeless are aged 24 or under. Enter Sleep Under the Stars, the annual initiative by Stepping Stone House to raise awareness and funds to help fight youth homelessness across the country. In 2025, Sydneysiders can register to spend a night sleeping rough in Barangaroo's Stargazer lawn with the goal of raising $1 million for Stepping Stone House, money that will in turn go towards safe homes, education and life-changing support to young people at risk of or experiencing homelessness. Participants are encouraged to raise money on their team ahead of the night, but come 4pm on Friday, October 24, all registrants will head to the lawn for the night. There'll be a welcome to country, live music, games, food, drinks, stargazing, and all the supplies you and your crew will need to build a shelter for the night. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Stepping Stone House (@stepping_stone_house) In 2023-24, almost half (49 percent) of everyone supported by NSW Specialist Homelessness Services was under 24. Nearly two-thirds (65 percent) of those seeking help in NSW were female, and more than 13,000 young people in Sydney presented alone at homelessness services last year. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people account for around one in three young people seeking homelessness support, with more than half of all Aboriginal clients accessing Specialist Homelessness Services (SHS) aged under 25. Jason Juretic, CEO, Stepping Stone House, says, "We often think of youth homelessness as something that only happens in big global cities like London or New York, but the reality is it's unfolding right here in our own backyard. And it's not just happening to strangers, it's touching people we all know. It could be a mate, a colleague, or even the kids your children go to school with, forced to find shelter wherever they can." "People don't always associate couch surfing with homelessness, but that's exactly what it is. Just because it isn't happening on the street doesn't make it any less devastating, and the ramifications on a young person's health, education and future are huge." If you'd like to sign up, visit the website, but if you can't attend, you can still make a donation online.
Talbingo Dam is one of the largest bodies of water that make up the Snowy Mountains Scheme, and one of the enduring drawcards of this part of the world is its popularity as a recreational fishing destination. The deep waters of the dam are home to a variety of species including rainbow trout, golden perch, redfin and more. It's also one of the few places that allows catch-and-release sportfishing for the elusive trout cod. If you're planning on dropping a line here, a small recreational fishing fee must be paid. It goes towards the ample restocking of the dams with sustainable species as well as helping to fund research and maintenance about sustainable recreational fishing. [caption id="attachment_841377" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Lumi1023 (Flickr)[/caption] The sheer size of Talbingo Dam means that there's plenty of space for aquatic activities in the pristine water. There's a cordoned-off area for swimming and plenty of signage so you can't miss it. Or, if you're more of a thrillseeker, there are long stretches of deep flat water perfect for jet skiing — and the calm nature of the water makes this spot a great place to learn. If jet skis aren't your jam, then perhaps hire a canoe and set your own pace to blissfully take in the breathtaking mountain scenery that surrounds the dam. Whichever you choose, there are plenty of ways to experience this impressive body of water. Top image: Brendan J Murphy (Flickr)
He's the horror and thriller author responsible for bloody proms, haunted hotels, possessed cars, sewer-dwelling clowns and spooky animal resting grounds, not to mention literary stalkers, depression-era death row prisoners, a town plagued by unexplained fogginess and another trapped under a dome. Indeed, since coming to fame with Carrie back in the 70s, Stephen King has never proven unpopular — but the world sure loves the writer's work right now. The viewing world in particular seems to adore King at the moment, with page-to-screen adaptations of his books popping up thick and fast. In 2019 alone, a new version of Pet Sematary hit cinemas, as did IT: Chapter Two, and The Shining sequel Doctor Sleep is dropping next month — while In the Tall Grass recently arrived on Netflix. On the small screen, Mr Mercedes is up to its third season, Castle Rock is just about to start unfurling its second and Creepshow's first recently landed. Next year will see three more TV shows join them, too, all based on King's books — and if you like the author in murder-mystery mode, you might want to add The Outsider to your viewing list. HBO's addition to the fold is a ten-part mini-series taking inspiration from King's 2018 novel of the same name, which focuses on the gruesome death of an 11-year-boy. Little League coach Terry Maitland (Jason Bateman) is suspected of the shocking murder, with his fingerprints all over the scene; however, video footage places him 60 miles across town at the time the crime went down. Unravelling just what happened is a task for police detective Ralph Anderson (Ben Mendelsohn), who's also mourning the death of his own son. When nothing seems to add up, he brings in unconventional private investigator Holly Gibney (Widows and Bad Times at the El Royale's Cynthia Erivo) to help, despite him professing to have "no tolerance for the unexplainable". In case you're thinking that this all sounds like one of King's more straightforward tales, "an insidious supernatural force" is also involved according to the official HBO synopsis — it is called The Outsider, after all. Mendo, Australia's favourite current acting export, also produces the show, as well as seemingly getting a rare chance to play something other than a blockbuster baddie of late (see Rogue One, Ready Player One and Robin Hood, for example). As for recent Emmy directing winner Bateman, he executive produces and jumps behind the lens on the series' first two episodes. Check out the first teaser below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I03MAkQ_OyM The Outsider starts airing on Sunday, January 12 in America — we'll update you once viewing details for Down Under have been announced.
Ken Whisson’s connection to the world may well be ever-changing. And the world, too, is changing its connection with him. The As If collection — titled in reference to Immanuel Kant: ‘to live as if’, and the Paris surrealists' ‘let us live as if the world really exists’ — depicts the chaos, perversity and human spirit of a transient world. Here is an Australian artist who, though practising for sixty years, is decidedly underrated and obscure — although one gets the impression he may prefer it this way. Growing up and studying in Victoria, but based in Italy since the 1970s, Whisson’s paintings can be seen as a carefully curated amalgamation of journeys. This expansive retrospective is stuffed with a glut of glorious paintings, drawings, studies and books he has been inspired by. And for all that the artist himself is somewhat enigmatic, within his work there is a sense of the man behind them. Be it in the tobacco stains breathed into the oil paints over time, or the frequently rude humour of the figurative work. Here, Whisson’s figures levitate within the picture’s peripherals, and their bodies contort dreamily. Objects — vehicles, animals, humans, sheds — are crammed into the canvas; their relationships with each other created through their proximity. It is at once methodical and messy, and speaks of the world’s improbability. Landscapes are fragmented into snapshots, like the view from a car window, and this frenetic movement denotes the journey motif Whisson does so well. His earlier work is painted on board, and the paint, unabsorbed, sits richly on the surface. It is floating, superficial, incomplete. Here you will find ships, cars, aeroplanes and plains — dissected, deconstructed and floating. And in their lack of grounding they speak of a reluctance to commit to, or an inability to find, home. There are dream-like qualities to the exhibition: primary colours are grafted together; people are delicious assemblages of limbs, lips and bulbous heads; and a delightfully theatrical sense of humour. Whisson said that perhaps “we might need to relate together by entertaining each other.” Come, be entertained, and think about the world as if you know it. Image: Books and Landscapes, 1987-94, courtesy of MCA © of artist.
Has it been three years already? We were too busy scoffing burgers and knocking back schooners to notice. On Thursday April 16, The Forresters celebrating three years under the banner of Drink 'n' Dine with a birthday bash starring Sydney’s food mascot: the burger. The Surry Hills haunt has gained a loyal following. They’ve been rewarding carnivores with Black Betty BBQ and Queenies for some time now. Backed by cold beer and killer cocktails, The Forresters is basically your swashbuckling Texan uncle. Party highlights include a free drink on entry, door and 'burger wheel' prizes all night, and a croquemburger birthday cake. You heard right: the crew will be taking a delicate French dessert and turning it into a towering stack of greasy goodness. It’s about time the burger had its own food pyramid anyway, right? Plus, make sure you wear your fat pants for the burger eating competition. The winner will be rewarded with... more burgers. These come in the form of a year's worth of burger specials, to be enjoyed well after your competition meal is digested. To enter the comp, email matt@forresters.com.au and secure your spot.
Darlinghurst's much-loved ramen joint Chaco Bar had been serving up authentic Japanese fare to Sydneysiders for over five years when it decided to expand into Potts Point. The new space is a dedicated yakitori joint based in the old Jimmy Liks space. Owner Keita Abe had been hoping to focus more on both his ramen and yakitori offerings — so chose to split the concepts altogether. Abe snatched up the Victoria Street space because it was already approved to have a charcoal grill, which can be a feat to obtain as it requires specific ventilation. At the new Potts Point Chaco Bar, you can expect a similar Fukuoka-inspired yakitori offering to what was on offer in Darlo. Think skewers of organic pork belly, wagyu tongue, and miso eggplant; plus, all parts of the chicken, including thigh, wing, heart, tail and gizzards. An omakase menu is also up for grabs. Expect big things from the new restaurant's fit-out, too, which was looked after by designer Matt Darwon — his work can also be seen inside Crown Street's Toko and at Clayton Wells' Automata. It' all, of course, centres on a robata grill and a woodfired stove, with all of the fiery cooking on display from an open kitchen. As far as the existing Darlinghurst location is concerned, it's now dubbed Chaco Ramen and only focuses on the namesake dish. Images: Cassandra Hannagan You'll find Chaco Bar in our list of the best degustations in Sydney. Check out the full list here.
The year is 1987. One way or another, the residents of Hawkins, Indiana that viewers know and love will have their last experience with the eeriness that's been plaguing their town for years. That's the promise of Stranger Things' long-awaited fifth and final season, even if the hit Netflix show saying goodbye won't be the end of the franchise's universe. Audiences, start looking forward to 2025. More than two years after season four's arrival — a wait extended due to 2023's Hollywood strikes — the streaming platform has confirmed that Stranger Things will be back in 2025. More than that, it has revealed a few key details. The first: that the new season will be set in the fall of 1987, which means a jump from the fourth season's spring 1986 timing. The second: the titles of the eight upcoming episodes. [caption id="attachment_978610" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Atsushi Nishijima/Netflix © 2024[/caption] There's no specific release date yet, other than 2025 — and nothing more in terms of a storyline, either. But if you feel like obsessing over the episode monikers for clues, you've now got eight hints. The season will kick off with 'The Crawl', then deliver 'The Vanishing of ...', 'The Turnbow Trap' and 'Sorcerer'. Next comes 'Shock Jock', 'Escape From Camazotz' and 'The Bridge', before it all ends with the enticingly named 'The Rightside Up'. Netflix unveiled the titles with a teaser video that's just text on-screen, plus the familiar — and always-welcome — sounds of the Stranger Things theme. Wondering who or what vanishes? The details are also part of the episode name, but the spoiler part has been blurred out to keep everyone guessing. Fans already know, however, that this season features Terminator franchise icon Linda Hamilton, jumping from one sci-fi hit to another. That said, there's no news yet on who she'll play, where she'll fit in, what relationship that she'll have with the usual Hawkins crew, how many episodes that she'll feature in or if she'll be visiting the Upside Down — or how pivotal she'll be to the show's big farewell. And as for more Stranger Things-related antics after season five, when creators Matt and Ross Duffer revealed that their sci-fi show was working towards its endgame back in 2022, they also said that they had more stories to tell in this fictional realm. Instantly, we all knew what that meant. Netflix doesn't like letting go of its hits easily, after all, so the quest to find a way to keep wandering through this franchise was about as surprising as Jim Hopper's (David Harbour, Gran Turismo: Based on a True Story) usual gruff mood. Check out the title tease video for season five below: Stranger Things season five will arrive some time in 2025 — we'll update you when an exact release date is announced. You can stream the first four seasons now via Netflix — and read our review of season four. Images: Netflix.
Something chilly is headed Sydney's way on Monday, September 12: House of the Dragon-themed gelato, and for free. Two new limited-edition varieties are being whipped by up Gelato Messina, and they'll only be available for a single day at the chain's Newtown store — 3000 scoops in total, and with no wallets needed. If your tastebuds are as eager as a Targaryen about sitting on the Iron Throne, House Vanillaryon combines burnt vanilla gelato, smoked chocolate brownie and burnt honey caramel, while Heir to the Cone will feature red velvet cheesecake gelato with dragonfruit puree. (Yes, something dragon-related was always bound to pop up.) Just for the day from 12–9pm, Messina's King Street spot is also transforming into Westeros, which is set to involve appropriate decor. Given that House of the Dragon is all about the Targaryens, expect to feel like you're stepping into their world. Dragons will likely feature heavily here, we suspect — and if want to wear your best (or worst) blonde wig while you're there, that's up to you. A key caveat: Messina's collaboration with Australian streaming service Binge, which airs House of the Dragon, is a first-come-first-served event. So, while the one-day-only affair will kick off at 12pm and could indeed run till 9pm, those free gelato flavours are just available while stocks last. Also, you do need to go in-store to get your freebies, as it isn't on offer via delivery. Go on, try not to say "winter is coming" while you're there.
Going sailing with your dad is like going to IKEA with your partner — it will either bring you closer together and, at the end of the day, you'll be back-clapping and high fiving all over the joint, or it will drive you sorely apart. If you think you and your dad fall into the former camp, take you're assuredness to the seas of Sydney Harbour for Father's Day 2016. Don't have your own yacht? Not many people do. That's where Red Balloon come in. Purveyors of fine experiences as they are, they've sourced the yacht for you (the America's Cup) and will get you and your pop out on the seas with minimal action required on your behalf (like maybe you'll have to pull a rope or something, but that's it). For $65 per person, you'll get a two and a half-hour round trip journey on the 24-metre vessel, which will pick you up and return you to Darling Harbour.
Luke Nguyen is diving into the spring season with an exclusive lunch and dinner at the stunning Botanic House in partnership with Roku Gin and Grandiflora for one day only, Thursday, September 26. When thinking about Japan and springtime, the first thing that will pop into your mind's eye is undoubtedly cherry blossoms — or sakura. The sakura season is one of the most popular times of the year in Japan, as the pink petals blanket the country. Roku, which translates to 'six' in English, is made with six distinctly Japanese botanicals. Each of these botanicals is plucked at the peak of its seasonality — as is the Japanese practice of Shun. Roku Gin is celebrating seasonality with the launch of Roku Gin Sakura Bloom Edition, the first in Roku Gin's Seasonal Festive Collection. The menu on the day is inspired by the special edition gin and Japanese cuisine: "The flavour profile of Roku Gin Sakura Bloom Edition really marries well with my style of cooking," says Luke Nguyen. "I love cooking lovely, fresh, vibrant flavours. My cooking philosophy is very simple. Keep it simple. Don't complicate it, but always source the best ingredients. And when you use the most premium and fresh ingredients, the cooking is so much easier." A philosophy shared by Roku Gin. Guests will enjoy a Roku Gin Sakura Bloom Edition cocktail on arrival — a G&T naturally — at neighbouring Palm House, where House of Suntory ambassador and host James Buntin will be waiting — read our chat with Buntin about Roku Gin and Shun. Following welcome drinks, guests will be ushered through the stunning Royal Botanic Garden to the Botanic House restaurant, There, guests will enjoy a three-course Japanese-inspired menu with paired cocktails for each course — Roku Gin Spritz for the entree, Roku Hanami Fizz for the main, and Spring Bramble for dessert. In addition to the delectable Japanese-inspired menu, guests will also go home with a delightfully floral full-size fragrance from Grandiflora. It was crafted by florist-turned-perfumier Saskia Havekes, founder of Grandiflora (50ml, valued at $220), who used the limited edition gin as the inspiration and template for the bespoke fragrance. This fragrance will only be available at exclusive Roku Gin and Grandiflora events happening throughout spring in Sydney. Join Luke Nguyen at Botanic House for lunch at 12.30pm or dinner at 6.30pm on Thursday, September 26. Tickets are available on the Botanic House website. Roku Gin Sakura Bloom Edition is available at Dan Murphy's stores nationwide. Find out more info and purchase on the website. Image Credit: Mark Sherborne
Omakase can be associated with out-of-reach luxury, conjuring up images of hard-to-find venues with dark interiors and pricey slices of top-shelf sashimi. Like any great culinary offering, omakase doesn't have to be a stiff, expensive affair — there are a few different ways to do it. One of the more relaxed and approachable takes is the Kappo Yakiniku Omakase experience at Paddington's Izy.Aki. Quick definition: kappo is a culinary experience defined by an intimate space and chef-diner interaction, while omakase is a dining experience where the menu is left up to the chef. The final result? Kappo omakase is a relaxed, informal take on your typical omakase experience, packed full of honest interactions with the chef as they take you through your meal. Izy.Aki opened in late 2024 and is a breath of fresh air for Sydney's omakase scene. Having taken over the Oxford Street space of Saint Peter, chef Darren Templeman (Atelier, O Bar and Dining) crafts a seasonal approach to a six or ten-course set menu for all diners. Just inform him of your dietary preferences when you arrive, and you're off to the races. While this is still omakase, some in-house specialties may be included in your meal if your interests align. Chief among the specialties is The Egg: a hen egg filled with white onion puree, foie gras, smoked eel and a topping of trout roe. But this is no seafood-led omakase — instead, you'll find a wide range of grilled offerings, including yakiniku-style meats and 9+ Australian wagyu. No matter the meal, you'll be enjoying it up close with Head Chef Bonnie Yu and bartender Aurelian Jeffredo. Pull up a seat along the 18-seat counter for an intimate experience that Templeman describes as "a journey of surprises". He adds, "It's not just about the food; it's about the experience. I want guests to feel like they're part of the team, not just sitting and watching." Find Izy.Aki at 362 Oxford Street, Paddington, open from 5–10pm from Tuesday through Saturday. Visit the website for more information or to make a booking.
Throughout much of Ms Marvel, the 2022 TV series' namesake (debutant Iman Vellani) and massive Marvel Cinematic Universe superfan was thrilled and surprised at everything happening to her. Loving the MCU, going to MCU fan conventions, obsessing over Captain Marvel (Brie Larson, Just Mercy), then learning that you have superpowers just like your heroes: that's enough to leave you perpetually astonished and overjoyed in tandem, an emotional state that Kamala Khan isn't done with in The Marvels. Ms Marvel was always leading up to this big-screen release, with Vellani returning as Kamala, and teaming up not only with Larson as Carol Danvers, but with WandaVision's Teyonah Parris as Monica Rambeau as well. The 33rd movie in the MCU, arriving in November following fellow 2023 cinema release Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 in May, it's also a sequel to 2019's Captain Marvel — and, as the just-dropped first teaser trailer shows, it's making the most of having three caped crusaders in its frames. Meet the MCU's new superhero team, although this all-female trio have a bit of trickiness to overcome before they can work together. The first look starts with Captain Rambeau at Saber Space Station — well, outside it — while working with the upcoming Secret Invasion's Nick Fury (Samuel L Jackson, The Last Days of Ptolemy Grey). Then she crosses through the space continuum, becomes Ms Marvel, and a whole lot of trading places keeps occurring. From there, when Ms Marvel uses her powers, too, Captain Marvel switches into her spot. The Marvels' first trailer leans into the chaos that causes — plus Kamala's ongoing exuberance about the whole situation. Importantly, Goose the Flerken also shows up. If you're wondering, Carol has her identity back from the Kree and she's taken revenge on the Supreme Intelligence; however, that has consequences, and the universe has become destabilised. So, The Marvels need to team up to do the usual MCU thing: save everyone and everything. As well as Larson, Parris, Vellani and Jackson, The Marvels features Zawe Ashton (The Handmaid's Tale) and Park Seo-joon (Parasite). Behind the lens, Candyman's Nia DaCosta directs, and co-wrote the screenplay with Megan McDonnell (WandaVision), Elissa Karasik (Loki) and Zeb Wells (She-Hulk: Attorney at Law). Check out the first trailer for The Marvels below: The Marvels releases in cinemas Down Under on November 9, 2023. Images: Photo courtesy of Marvel Studios. © 2023 MARVEL.
Australia's local equivalent of NPR's Tiny Desk concerts has arrived. Store Sessions, hosted and released by Melbourne streetwear brand HoMie, are a new series of recorded gigs starring artists performing inside HoMie's flagship store in Fitzroy. The first-ever store session has already been released, and stars Australia's own Tash Sultana. It marks a return to Australian performances for the multi-instrumentalist, who is the first act in a series that is planned to run indefinitely, as part of HoMie's ongoing mission to support youth in Melbourne and combat issues in housing and employment for young people. [embed]https://youtu.be/-wGQKDE7TOU?feature=shared[/embed] It's a cause that comes with a calling. Sultana said: "I've been following HoMie's journey for a while now and I really love what they stand for, so getting to be involved from a music standpoint makes perfect sense. These store sessions are a really cool concept and I'm happy to be a part of it." That sentiment also runs true for the next artists to follow in the series. Soon to be released, in three-week intervals, will be recorded gigs from Bad//Dreems and local band Big Words. Alex Cameron of Bad//Dreems shared: "We've been admirers of the work HoMie have been doing for some time and are super excited to come in and play!" It's a bold initiative for HoMie, with its store presented as part performance venue, part streetwear store and part creative launchpad — all for an excellent cause. [caption id="attachment_1016400" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Melissa Cowan[/caption] HoMie Co-Founder Marcus Crook has plans for Store Sessions to become a staple series, with the store hosting everything from one-off shows to headline artists touring in Australia. Explaining the vision for the initiative, he said, "Store Sessions is about creating a space where artists from emerging talent to global names can get creative and connect with people in a different way. It's live, it's stripped back, and it's all tied back to our mission at HoMie. Every session supports the work we do at HoMie and brings our community closer through music." You can watch Tash Sultana perform their Store Sessions gig on YouTube now. Follow the HoMie Streetwear channels to catch the next gig when it releases.
The Anchorage Port Stephens is as waterfront as it gets. Many suites come with their own north-facing balcony or terrace, giving you dreamy views of the bay, foregrounded by the Anchorage Marina and backdropped by Corrie Island. The spacious interiors take inspiration from The Hamptons. Think crisp, white linen and pale timber furnishings, splashed with blues and oranges. There's a variety of rooms on offer, from anchorage rooms to one- and two-bedroom loft suites to self-contained villas. The pool's right on the water, too, and comes with a dedicated bar, letting you sip between dips. But, for a serious wind-down, book yourself a signature massage in the day spa. Get there an hour early to kick back in the jacuzzi and sauna. Breakfast is served in the form of an Olympian-sized buffet in the Anchorage's poolside Kitchen Galley. Say yes to eggs-cooked-to-order. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, too. But you may opt to check out the other onsite restaurant, The Wild Herring, instead, which specialises in locally sourced seafood with expertly paired wine. [caption id="attachment_774059" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption]
If you've got a pile of gold coins burning a hole in your wallet, pockets or that void down the back of your couch — or just a spare $1 in your bank account because you haven't handled physical cash for years — BrewDog might just have the best way to put it to good use. Like beer? Keen to sample it? Always wanted to learn more about the amber liquid you're so fond of drinking? Meet BrewDog's $1 Beer School. No, there's no typo in that figure. A digit or two isn't missing, either. The Scottish brewery wants you to head by its Sydney location at South Eveleigh and go to class. Beer class, that is, aka the best kind of learning there is. All throughout May, for less than the price of a coffee (or just about anything for that matter), you'll taste four BrewDog sips and boost your beer knowledge via a self-guided online tour. The two caveats: you do need to book in advance, meaning that you can't just walk in and decide it's time to go to beer school; and you can only have a maximum of eight people per booking. Happy learning — and drinking. Images: Anna Kucera.
Dom Dolla just keeps making history. Back in December 2023, the Australian DJ and producer notched up a hefty achievement, playing his biggest-ever hometown show in Melbourne at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl. Then, come 2024, his national tour became the largest ever by an Australian electronic artist, selling 170,000-plus tickets in four cities. What does 2025 hold, then? Oh, only the Grammy-nominee doing his first-ever Aussie stadium show and biggest headline gig ever. He's played Coachella, Lollapalooza, Wildlands, Spilt Milk and more — including soldout Madison Square Garden gigs with over 30,000 attendees, plus Ultra Miami and EDC Las Vegas. When Europe's summer hits, he's doing a ten-week residency at Hï Ibiza. Then, on Saturday, December 20, 2025, Dom Dolla is heading home in a massive way, headlining Sydney's Allianz Stadium. The three-time ARIA-winner (and 16-time ARIA-nominee) also has something else sizeable to add to his resume in 2025: with 'No Room for a Saint' featuring Nathan Nicholson, he's making his film soundtrack debut. The movie: the Brad Pitt (F1)-starring F1. Also this year, Dom Dolla has released two other tracks: 'Dreamin' featuring Daya and 'Forever' with Kid Cudi. On his 2024 Aussie tour, the venues weren't small, given that he played Melbourne's Flemington Racecourse, Sydney's Domain, Brisbane's Riverstage and Perth's Wellington Square. But making the leap to a headline stadium gig is no minor feat. Images: shevindphoto.
Melbourne art collective Fast Fashun is heading up to Sydney for a two-day pop-up in Tumbalong Park for Sydney Festival. Hitting the Harbour City for the weekend of January 20–21, the free activation will shine a light on how we can reduce the waste created by the clothes we wear. Attendees will be encouraged to make one-of-a-kind fashion creations from recycled clothes, with members of the Fast Fashun team on hand to run workshops in repurposing clothing using sewing machines, safety pins or just some good old-fashioned creativity. Every hour between 1–4pm, there will be a runway show where the participants can show off their creations. You'll be able to flex your visual eye before hitting the catwalk in front of a cheering crowd to shine a spotlight on how imaginative you can be with pre-loved garms. If you want to get around the Fast Fashun mission of saving clothes from landfill and reducing the amount of single-wear and throw-it-out fashion being produced, follow the collective on Instagram and check out the latest edition of the Fast Fashun zine. Images: Theresa Harrison
Australia's east coast is cooling down. Winter has arrived. But Western Australia is just sitting over there, still bathed in sunlight (especially the north). Its coastal waters remain warm, the rolling vineyards are pumping out great vinos and the vast national parks and deserts are ripe for exploring. Now is the time to travel to WA. And we have joined forces with an assortment of local tour operators in Broome, Perth, Ningaloo Reef, the Kimberley and Rottnest Island to help you get the most out of your trip out west. Check out these ten exclusive deals that can only be booked through Concrete Playground Trips. MARGARET RIVER GLAMPING ESCAPE This four-day wellness escape kicks off in Perth, where you get picked up by your guide and driven up to the Margaret River glamping site, stopping off for a swim, morning tea, beachside picnic and chocolate tasting along the way. The rest of your holiday consists of hikes led by holistic healers, meditation workshops, yoga classes and a cheeky wine tour. All your meals are also included. Throughout all of this, you'll stay in Fair Harvest Permaculture Farm's comfy glamping tents and mingle with fellow wellness enthusiasts. If you are in great need of a total mind and body refresh, seriously consider this unique Western Australian glamping holiday deal. BOOK IT NOW. [caption id="attachment_893739" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Western Australia[/caption] THE ULTIMATE PERTH AND ROTTNEST ISLAND GETAWAY To get the most out of a trip to the southern end of Western Australia, we curated this special getaway with the region's top tour operators. First off, we'll put you up in the Duxton Hotel Perth for three nights (where you'll find a complimentary bottle of vino on arrival), located right in the centre of the city. We've then organised a full day of adventuring around Rottnest Island and Perth. You'll go on a Swan River cruise, get return ferry ride tickets to the island and have the option to hire a bike to explore the area at your own pace. We've even added a HALO Rooftop Climbing Tour and zipline experience across Swan River for a little adrenaline rush. BOOK IT NOW. A KICK-ASS KIMBERLEY ADVENTURE This ten-day tour takes you through Australia's Top End. You'll cover a vast distance, travelling from Darwin to Broome, without simply living in a car. So much time is dedicated to swimming within clifftop watering holes, hiking around scenic trails and relaxing at glam accommodation — all the while learning about the millennia-strong First Nations culture that guides any tour through the region. If you've ever wanted to visit this part of Western Australia and the Northern Territory, then check out the full itinerary and nab your spot via the link below. BOOK IT NOW. [caption id="attachment_887073" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ben Careless (Unsplash)[/caption] WEST COAST AND NINGALOO REEF TOUR Road-tripping along Western Australia's long coastline is a bucket list travel experience for so many people. We all want to visit the Pink Lake, snorkel around wild turtles and colourful coral in Ningaloo Reef and feed dolphins in Monkey Mia. Some of Australia's best bits are on show up here. And this six-day tour takes you to a bunch of them. Stay in motels, resorts, cabins and lodges to experience some proper rural Australian culture and be taken to all the above Western Australia travel destinations as well as The Pinnacles and Kalbarri National Park. It's the ultimate coral coaster. BOOK IT NOW. [caption id="attachment_895290" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Western Australia[/caption] EXPERIENCE THE BEST OF BROOME This trip around Broome will have you staying at the four-star resort Seashells in a one-bedroom apartment for three nights. You can easily spend an entire day dipping in and out of the luxe pool, but you really should check out the local sites in your own time. Moreover, for one of your days in Broome, you'll join a Horizontal Falls adventure, which includes a return seaplane flight, a fast boat ride through the falls, a swim and snorkel afternoon and a scenic cruise around the area. We've sorted it all for you — even the return transfers from the airport — making your Broome holiday totally stress-free. BOOK IT NOW. [caption id="attachment_890742" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cape Mentelle Winery by Russell Ord[/caption] MARGARET RIVER BEACHSIDE ESCAPE This is a four-day food- and wine-filled holiday in the lush Margaret River region. Spend your mornings and evenings at Margarets Beach Resort in a studio apartment overlooking the crashing waves of Gas Bay. Then go exploring the region at your own pace. To make that easier, we've also thrown in a five-day car hire. You'll get a suggested itinerary as well as a special one-hour Passel Estate Experience. This includes a special wine tasting that's paired with a series of locally produced craft foods — think chocolates and cheeses. This is great for those who want some things organised ahead of time, but still like the freedom to do their own thing when holidaying. BOOK IT NOW. ESPERANCE WELLNESS AND YOGA RETREAT It's hitting that time of the year when many of us start feeling burnout creeping up. That's when we really need to go on a three-night wellness retreat. For this one, you'll spend a few days at Esperance Island View Apartments enjoying small-group yoga sessions and wellness experiences with sea views. The rest of your time will be spent leisurely exploring this gorgeous part of WA — or simply reading a book on a nearby beach. Throughout this Esperance holiday, all your meals will be included as well as transfers from Perth and extra activities. We've curated this trip so you can just fly in and immediately relax. BOOK IT NOW. [caption id="attachment_891479" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tobias Keller (Unsplash)[/caption] THE PERTH TO MONKEY MIA EXPLORER This Western Australia tour between Perth and Monkey Mia may be short (in distance), but it's big on natural attractions — the kind you expect to see on postcards (or all over Insta). See the limestone pillars of The Pinnacles, the oh-so-blue waters of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Shark Bay, the wild dolphins of Monkey Mia and the ancient gorges of Kalbarri National Park all within five days. That gives you plenty of time to also relax at your premium accommodation, spend days swimming at pristine beaches and discover small rural towns full of charm. BOOK IT NOW. [caption id="attachment_895302" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism Western Australia[/caption] SWIM WITH WHALE SHARKS ON THIS NINGALOO REEF ADVENTURE Swimming with whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef should be at the top of every bucket list when visiting Western Australia's Coral Coast. Exmouth is the gateway to the world's largest fringing reef — the Ningaloo — and that's exactly where you're headed on this exclusive three-day adventure. You'll enjoy a full day diving head-first into this pristine aquatic wonderland, which is home to dolphins, manta rays, turtles, Humpback whales and, of course, the much-loved whale sharks. Spend the rest of your days at your own leisure, but we highly recommend hitting up the iconic Cape Range National Park, home to native wildlife and epic walking trails. BOOK IT NOW. Feeling inspired to book a truly unique getaway? Head to Concrete Playground Trips to explore a range of holidays curated by our editorial team. We've teamed up with all the best providers of flights, stays and experiences to bring you a series of unforgettable trips in destinations all over the world. Top image: Scenic Eclipse II
