We don't mean to be dramatic, but you haven't lived until you've had your first ButterBoy cookie. Everyone has their own taste in cookies, sure, but these are some of Sydney's best. And now, the brand is opening its first permanent store outside of Sydney, the first step in a plan for national cookie domination. First there was Manly, then followed Chatswood, Broadway and Brookvale. Where to next? Start packing the car for a road trip, because ButterBoy is setting up shop in Byron Bay. The brand may have started humble, but after a series of wildly popular pop-ups in Sydney and Melbourne, they've seen that Australians are hungry for more ButterBoy, more frequently. "We're bringing everything Butterboy has to offer to Byron," says ButterBoy founder James Sideris. Including new and signature cookie flavours, soft-serves and the viral cookie milk to the holiday hot spot just in time for peak summer season". That's right. It's more than just cookies. ButterBoy takes the typical pairing of cookies and milk to the next level, with both soft serve and cookie milk available. Yes, cookie milk. ButterBoy cookies blasted into fine crumbs, then soaked and strained into a creamy glass of milk that tastes like it came out of the oven with the cookies themselves. Sideris started ButterBoy in his uni days, selling muffins and cookies to nearby cafes out of his home kitchen, before jumping on the chunky cookie trend with a bakery in the Manly arcade, just next door to two other Manly icons that Sidaris co-owns, Rollers Bakery and Norma's Deli, before expanding into a flagship store on the Corso in 2022. Now, ButterBoy produces thousands of kilograms of cookie dough to be sold both in its stores and distributed to wholesale partners across the country. The new Byron Bay store will be opening later this month, right in the heart of the action on Jonson Street. ButterBoy will open in late December at 17-21 Jonson Street, Byron Bay. Head to the website for more information.
Activewear fans, we've got some big news: P.E. Nation is bringing back its warehouse sample sale for one weekend this March. The athleisure experts hosted their first ever sample sale in 2016 — and everything sold out in the first day. Luckily, that won't be the case this year as they'll be stocking the warehouse with fresh threads each morning. Whether you're packing your own gym-going wardrobe or doing a solid for sporty loved ones, you'll find an extensive array of swim, activewear, accessories, sweaters and jackets at 55 Doody Street, Alexandria, between March 28 and 30. One-off samples plus past-season styles in all sizes — for both men and women — will be available. Remember the age-old advice of when it comes to sample sales, you need to get in quick. Given the following the label has amassed since General Pants Co. design director Pip Edwards and former senior Sass & Bide designer Claire Tregoning joined forces, their functional, fashionable bits and pieces are bound to be popular. Throw on your favourite pieces for an energy boost, and hop along. P.E. Nation Warehouse Sale will be open 10am–7pm Thursday, 9am–6pm Friday and 9am–4pm Saturday.
Fifty years, oh-so-many epic campaigns, and everything from movies to video games, too: that's the Dungeons & Dragons story. 2024 marks half a century since the tabletop roleplaying game first had its players rolling the dice and spinning fantasy tales, a milestone that's being celebrated Down Under with the Australasian premiere of Dungeons & Dragons' leap to the stage. Get excited about DUNGEONS & DRAGONS The Twenty-Sided Tavern. Normally a trip to the theatre means engaging via watching, not by playing a part; however, that fittingly isn't the DUNGEONS & DRAGONS The Twenty-Sided Tavern experience. Audience members don't simply view this version of the game — they also play along, choosing the characters and helping shape the story. Here's how it works, as Australians have been able to discover at the Sydney Opera House Studio since Sunday, December 15, 2024: when you take your seat, you're a key aspect of the show. Entering the Forgotten Realms, you also pick the experiences and other elements of the performance using Gamiotics software, with more than 30 playable characters, 34 backgrounds and 28 combat effects involved. Still on numbers, the production also features 40-plus custom character illustrations, 40 item cards and over 300 individual pieces of content. Five actors take to the stage to bring all of the above to life, including via games, combat, puzzles and riddles — and, because of DUNGEONS & DRAGONS The Twenty-Sided Tavern's interactive nature, they're not just performing the same roles each time. Shaking things up for the audience and the cast alike, this experience is never the same twice. Images: Daniel Boud.
This natural skyscraper towers over 460 meters above sea level and is the perfect vantage point for a bird's eye view of the city of Wollongong and the waters beyond. Mount Keira is a significant cultural heritage site and is part of the Dreamtime story of the Wadi Wadi people — the traditional custodians of the land where Mount Keira sits. The story tells the creation of the five islands off Port Kembla, including Mount Keira, or Geera as it was known by the Wadi Wadi. The 'Six Daughters of the West Wind' sculpture on the south-facing lookout commemorates its creation story. There are moves afoot to rename the summit park to Djeera or Geera to reflect this heritage. And a short walk from the lookout will bring you to the edge of the stunning Illawarra escarpment, more than 200 million years in the making. Image: Andrew Harvey, Flickr
If you're a fan of Michael Mu Sung and his work with Potts Point icons, Farmhouse and Jeremy & Sons, get very, very excited. He's adding a new restaurant to the collection: a slick 20-seater ramen bar called Bones Ramen. You'll find this one across the road from Farmhouse, decked out in red brick, ocean blue tiles and parquet wood floors courtesy of design firm, Guru Projects. Ten of the seats will be overlooking the ramen action in the kitchen, and the other ten will be outside, ready for any density limit shenanigans. "Bones is our chance to serve something that we love and in our own style. The ramen dishes themselves are high-quality, something we felt was missing from the Elizabeth Bay/Potts Point dining precinct," explains Mu Sung. And the ramen? It's a tight, spicy menu, stuffed with seasonal ingredients and headed up by Jacob Riwaka — whose previous culinary experience spans years at Newtown favourite Rising Sun and Cornersmith restaurants. So let's talk food. Bones will start with four specialty ramen bowls, including a pork broth with chashu, soy egg, watercress and menma, chicken paitan with whole chicken chashu and shallots, a seafood bowl with scallops, ebi shinjo and nori, and a veggo ramen with Jerusalem artichoke and celeriac chashu, punched up with shiitake and oyster mushrooms. There's a little something for everyone. You can also top things off with lacto-fermented nuka pickles, or maybe a smoked chilli and egg yolk potato salad. "Unique to Bones will be our in-house production, barrelling and storage of taré, which is the soy seasoning for the broths. Controlling this from the restaurant means we're able to ensure continuity across our bowls at the highest possible standard," Riwaka says. In terms of nearby competition, Bones should have the strip pretty much covered. Mu Sung will be the only one slinging a dedicated ramen menu every night, backed up by Aussie craft beers like Sailor's Grave, Retches and Yulli's. So plonk yourself outside with a big bowl in the fading sunshine and prepare for meat sweats: this one's gonna be delicious. Bones Ramen can be found at Shop 4, 51 Bayswater Road, Potts Point. It's opening on Friday, January 21 from 12pm.
Featuring more than 200 wineries, Margaret River is an instantly recognisable name for those who pay attention to their vino. Having developed as a winemaking region since the 1960s, today it's considered one of Australia's top wine destinations. A massive percentage of Australia's premium wine is produced here, luring thousands of visitors through the region's many stunning cellar doors. With so many wineries to choose from, we've teamed up with Virgin Australia to put together a handy guide of the absolute must-visit Margaret River winemakers. Take a trip to Australia's southwest and go in search of the perfect glass of wine. VASSE FELIX Perhaps the most acclaimed winery in the entire Margaret River region, Vasse Felix has earned its reputation. It was the first winery to open in Margaret River in 1967 and, these days, the striking estate offers thirsty travellers a chic tasting room, a wine lounge and an art gallery, not to mention an award-winning fine dining restaurant that has an elegant yet rustic appeal, with its stone, steel and timber finishings. The rolling grounds make for a relaxing, scenic wander. There's a small creek that cuts through the middle of the estate as well as a series of sculptures hidden amongst the fields. If you're looking to have one blowout on your Margaret River escape, then Vasse Felix is without a doubt the place you should do it. Whether it's the world-class bottles of wine or the striking restaurant setting, it's one of the most delightful gastronomic experiences you'll find in Western Australia. CAPE MENTELLE Established back in 1970, Cape Mentelle is part of the so-called 'founding five' wineries that kickstarted the industry in Margaret River. Over the years, Cape Mentelle has contributed greatly to the local winemaking tradition, with the estate's 200 hectares of grapes producing bottles of wine that are acclaimed both at home and abroad. Located just outside the Margaret River township, the vast grounds welcome visitors and into its rammed-earth cellar to sample the goods, plus learn a few lessons with almost 40 years of viticultural experience on offer. Take part in the food and wine pairing (at $85 a person), which leads you on a journey through the estate before arriving in the original cabernet cellar to enjoy a selection of six canapés and six current release wines. If you happen to be there in summer, you'll have a lively wine-sipping experience as Cape Mentelle's lush lawns are transformed into a bustling outdoor cinema. VOYAGER ESTATE Surrounded by blooming rose gardens, Voyager Estate might just be the most serene winery on this list. And once you begin to drink down its award-winning chardonnay and cab sauv, you'll be completely at peace too — its drops are considered to be some of the best in the country. That's not to say you should pass on Voyager Estate's restaurant while you're there. Led by head chef Santiago Fernandez, get the most out of this fine-dining experience and try the seven-course degustation (at $120 per person), with each plate inspired by (and matched to) one of the vineyard's high-quality wines. To put the cherry on top, Voyager Estate successfully reached carbon neutral status back in 2017 — so feel good knowing that your feast is ecologically guilt-free. BURNSIDE ORGANIC FARM Over the last two decades, the McCall family has been organically farming an incredible variety of produce, including avocados, honey, capers and grapes. Specialising in the Italian styles of primitivo and vermentino, the Burnside Organic Farm is a distinctly family-run affair — and it give the property a homey vibe. Owners Jamie and Lara still manage the entire property and are more than happy to take you on a tour of the fruit orchard, the vineyard and eventually the tasting room, where you can enjoy their efforts as you overlook the surrounding farmland. The couple's three kids also help keep this place producing spectacular vino. Burnside Organic Farm also features some charming on-site luxury bungalows that provide the ideal place to spend a night after enjoying a bottle (or two). Combining modern amenities with natural and organic materials, the bungalows provide a private outdoor spa bath and roaring potbelly wood fire, which should make your countryside stay pretty perfect. FLOWSTONE WINES Flowstone Wines might not have the same massive scale as some wineries on this list, but that doesn't mean it doesn't produce some delicious wine. You can be certain that founder Stuart Pym has the pedigree to match with the best producers in the Margaret River region, having spent years perfecting his craft at some esteemed wineries and breweries, including Voyager Estate, Devil's Lair, Stella Bella, and the Matilda Bay Brewing Company. Having teamed up with fellow wine-lover Phil Giglia some 15 years ago, together the duo planted Flowstone's first vines that have since delivered some remarkable results. The small vineyard might only cover two-and-a-bit hectares, but the chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon grapes are considered some of the greatest in Margaret River. The operation remains a relatively tight-knit one so you should keep an eye out for a bottle of Flowstone's finest around town. If you're thinking about popping down, make sure you organise your trip in advance as cellar door visits are by appointment only. While you're at it, check out Virgin Australia's holiday packages, which will put you in good stead to explore Margaret River in total comfort.
Daytime raves are taking over our feeds this year. Aotearoa-born Morning People have been riding this wave long before it hit the mainstream — founders Vanessa Scott and Jamie Newman have been on alcohol-free morning parties across New Zealand for almost a decade. Partiers get the full rave experience, except they swap out hangovers and food deliveries for a shot of euphoria before a full day ahead. In November, Morning People is landing in Sydney for the first time. Head to Oxford Art Factory at the crack of dawn, where DJ powerhouse and drag diva Jimi the Kween will be on the decks. Jimi has pumped up crowds at major party cities like New York, Berlin, Ibiza and Tokyo — if anything can jolt you awake, it's her signature blend of house and high-energy dance anthems. If the lights and bass don't wake you up, the complimentary fresh-plunged coffee will. Help yourself to some fruit and non-alcoholic drinks on the way out, so you'll be glowing (and smugly energised) once you hit your desk. Images: Supplied
It only takes one run for an event to establish itself as a much-loved addition to its city. The River Pride Parade achieved that feat in 2024. Last year, for the first time ever, boats went floating through Brisbane to give the Queensland capital a LGBTQIA+ celebration cruising down the city's main waterway. Held as part of Melt Festival, the flotilla's debut was such a success that the event is also locked in for a 2025 return. Sydney has the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade, which takes over Oxford Street for a night of celebration. Melbourne has the Midsumma Pride March, its equivalent in Fitzroy Street, St Kilda. Brisbane's show of pride is the only one that requires a watercraft, but that fits the River City. In 2025, River Pride Parade will help close out Melt on Saturday, November 8. This time, colourful, sparkles-adorned and flag-waving vessels will venture from West End to Brisbane Powerhouse, again embracing everything that a pride parade should be — just on the water. More than 50 boats and other watercraft are expected to take part, accompanied by daytime fireworks and a mood-setting playlist. You can register now to hit the river, or you can mark your calendar and make plans to score a prime viewing spot at South Bank, Howard Smith Wharves, Brisbane Powerhouse and New Farm Park. 2025's Melt Festival runs from Wednesday, October 22–Sunday, November 9. So far, River Pride Parade isn't the only event on the lineup, after Brisbane Powerhouse announced that Broadway icon Bernadette Peters is coming to the fest for an Australian-exclusive show. "River Pride Parade is fast becoming a cornerstone event of Melt Festival — a much-loved community celebration of LGBTQ+ visibility and unity that floats through the heart of our city. After making waves in 2024, this year's parade will be bigger and bolder, with some fun surprises along the way," said Emmie Paranthoiene, Melt's Executive Producer. "We're thrilled to open Melt Festival with Broadway royalty Bernadette Peters and close it with a river-wide celebration of pride. It's the perfect way to bookend three extraordinary weeks of queer art and culture." Melt returns in 2025 after being reborn in 2024 as a fringe-style celebration of queer arts and culture that not only fills Brisbane Powerhouse, but spreads across the city — and onto the river, clearly. Last year, more than 120 events popped up in 70-plus venues across southeast Queensland, complete with a Wicked-themed Halloween ball, a pool party and plenty more. Melt Open 2024 will run from Wednesday, October 23–Sunday, November 10, with the River Pride Parade taking place on Saturday, November 9. Head to the festival website for additional information, and to register for the parade. Melt Festival 2025 runs from Wednesday, October 22–Sunday, November 9. Hit up the festival website for more details. Images: Markus Ravik.
Bill & Toni's is one of Sydney's longest-running eateries. Other places come and go, but this classic has stayed in the game since 1965. Its trick is to keep things simple, unpretentious and affordable. Think Italian family-sized portions of pasta, complimentary cordial, down-to-earth waiters and red-and-white gingham table cloths. The restaurant on East Sydney's Stanley Street — home to Little Italy back in the '50s and '60s — started out as a cafe, run by Guglielmo "Bill" Chiappini, before mates Toni and Adolfo added a second floor — and a restaurant — in the 1970s. Take the whole family on a Monday night and dig in without obliterating your bank account. Image: Kimberly Low.
Mode is an oasis in the sweeping Four Seasons hotel atrium. Designed by Luchetti Krelle (ACME, Banksii), the restaurant's design aims for a muted, tasteful take on jazz-age glamour. There are fluted glass screens curling around tables, decadent touches of velvet, brass and marble and curves as far as the eye can see. There's a classical cocktail list to go with the classical space, too. Including a Mode and Gin Tonic ($15), which makes good use of StrangeLove's dirty tonic, a boutique bitter that draws on raw cinchona bark to impart a distinctive taste. Other cocktails are twists on favourites, like old fashioneds and mojitos. Or you could try something off the wine list — a 2016 See Saw Pinot Noir ($16), for example, is earthy and rich red with plum and cherry notes. The menu, by Italian-born chef Francesco Mannelli (ex-.est, Balla), embraces simplicity, emphasising quality ingredients in a refined, upmarket bistro style. A starter of kingfish sashimi ($23) shows his visual flair; twists of raw meat are entwined with wine-coloured sweet-and-sour onions, halved macadamias and flecks of green from lettuce leaves. For mains, dishes come charred, smoked and roasted from the grill and woodfire oven, such as the whole fish of the day ($38). This may be an immaculately cooked John Dory, with crackling skin giving way to plenty of succulent white flesh, served with a small jug of thick, flavoursome tarragon butter sauce. Similarly stripped back are the tenderloin medallions ($43). Two velvety soft pieces of meat come with florets of woody, char-roasted pieces of cauliflower hidden underneath. The time-honoured chocolate delice ($15) will help you round out the meal. A dense, glossy disc of rich chocolate comes paired with fresh strawberry gelato. As a perfectly simple old-school dish, it's a good snapshot of Mode's approach. But if you'd rather not end on a sweet note, look to the cheese boards (1 for $12, 2 for $18). You might have a milky white, sheep's milk Ossau-Iraty with a splash of chilli jam, or a creamy La Luna goat's milk cheese from an organic farm in Sutton Grange, Victoria. Hotel restaurants (particularly in Australia) don't have the best reputation, but Mode has broken that mould. With a sleek design, classic drinks list and refined, tasty food, it ticks all the boxes.
Every January, the city comes alive with circus, cabaret, thought-provoking theatre and music — and next year will be no exception. Sydney Festival 2020 (running from January 8–26) features more than 70 new and diverse works from homegrown and international artists and performers. We've already picked out our 12 highlights from the program, including Joan Didion's seminal essay brought to life on stage and a reboot of an influential 70s cabaret. Now we're adding to that hit list with nine artworks and shows that you can see and do for less than $40. In fact, four of these are absolutely free! Take a look at our penny-pinching picks of Sydney Festival 2020 that won't cost you more than a couple of lobsters.
Spritzn' in piazzas under sunny skies trumps being in the office, but it can still be a tad overwhelming. Europe in summer is a melting pot of experiences and adventures, but sometimes these aren't as effortless as they seem on Instagram. Seemingly spontaneous trips perhaps require a bit more planning. Whether you're in a capital city or a charming regional town, it can be hard not to fall into the same obvious touristy routine, especially when it comes to food. To help you get that authentic European experience, we've rounded up some culinary adventures that leave it to the locals and pros to show you the ropes. From truffle hunting in regional France to oyster farming on the Croatian peninsula, we've got you covered. You'll eat well and have a fine old time if you're lucky enough to be trotting around Europe this summer. FOOD AND WINE TOUR WITH A SOMMELIER — BARCELONA, SPAIN Home to architectural marvels, beautiful beaches, and energetic nightlife, Barcelona also has an incredible food and wine scene to explore. If you want to dig a bit deeper and dine like a local, then embark on a Food and Wine Tour. A certified sommelier will take you around the city's coolest hidden gems, from cosy restaurants to hip wine bars. The expert will talk you through a range of delicious local tapas paired perfectly with an assortment of excellent wines from different Spanish regions. This tour will take you away from the city crowds into charming local neighbourhoods where the modern Spanish hospitality scene is thriving. You'll also be taken through the historical Sant Antoni Market, where the locals come to buy their produce. BOOK IT NOW. DISCOVER THE WORLD OF TRUFFLES AND TASTING — MAREY-LÈS-FUSSEY, FRANCE Burgundy isn't known only for its succulent wines. Another delicacy awaits your discovery: the Burgundy truffle. In the charming village of Marey-lès-Fussey, you'll find Mille Truffes House, run by the father-son duo Thierry and Yan. Let the human and canine experts take you through a specialty truffle experience, where you'll experience a truffle hunt with the ultimate pro, Julio the dog. After digging up your treasures, it's time to sample their delicate flavours with a tasting. There's no better way to embrace that old-school regional French charm while learning about a truly fascinating delicacy. Plus, it's a great way to break up all that wine-tasting and give your palate a bit of time to replenish. BOOK IT NOW. SEAFOOD TOUR — STON, CROATIA Ston and Mali Ston are charming coastal towns linked by one of the longest city walls in the world. The area is known for its blue waters and picturesque fishing villages. But most of all it's known for having some of the best oysters in Europe (and the world). Dive into the best Croatian cuisine has to offer by booking a Ston Gastro Tour on the Pelješac Peninsula. Discover the peninsula by boat and sail through the bay to see oyster farms up close. Be sure to try your fresh oysters paired with local wine. Back on land, walk through the historical town and discover local gems — choose fresh mussels or fish risotto for an authentic Croatian lunch. BOOK IT NOW. EXERCISE YOUR CHEESE GEEK — PARIS, FRANCE Whether you know your brie from your camembert or don't normally venture beyond the classic block of cheddar, a trip to Paris is not complete without a deep dive into the wonderful world of French cheese. The Become a Cheese Geek Tasting is highly rated, so we know you'll leave geekier than ever. Discover a plethora of flavours at La Cheese Room in Belleville, where you will warm up the senses with some blind tastings. Then, move on to a tasting of six farmhouse cheeses from around France, accompanied by paired beverages. Let the experts tell you all about the cheesemaking process and serving tips so you can impress while entertaining back home. You will walk out full of cheese and knowledge. BOOK IT NOW. FOOD AND WINE TOUR WITH A LOCAL CHEF — BOLOGNA, ITALY Bologna is known as the food capital of Italy, and for very good reason. This medieval city in the Emilia-Romagna region is the birthplace of balsamic vinegar and parmigiano reggiano cheese (among many other delicacies). With endless trattorias, markets and wares, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. Luckily, Chef Fred's Bologna Food & Wine Tour will help you make the most of your culinary journey. Avoid the tourist spots and embrace the experience of eating like a true Bolognese local at hidden downtown venues. Venture to the oldest markets, savour a traditional tigella sandwich, relish a slice of bolognese pizza or indulge in local cake. Then wash it all down with a wine tasting and finish with some gelato. Fred has a treasure trove of local secrets to share, guiding you to the very best the city has to offer. Just make sure you arrive hungry. BOOK IT NOW. VESTERBRO CULTURAL TOUR AND BEER TASTING — COPENHAGEN, DENMARK Copenhagen has been a pioneer in the hospitality and culinary scene for quite some time now. The city boasts trendy cafe spots, Michelin-starred dining, natural wine bars, and, of course, beer. Danish beer and pubs stand out as the most approachable and time-honoured expressions of Copenhagen's hospo-scene, reflecting the city's cultural landscape. At the heart of this captivating culture lies the Vesterbro neighbourhood. Once a red-light district, it is currently acknowledged by Lonely Planet as one of the coolest in the world. To truly grasp the essence of this vibrant area, embark on a Cultural Tour with Beer Tasting. You'll spend an afternoon exploring the town with locals, delving into its distinctive history and indulging in some golden Vesterbro brews at locally adored pubs and bars. BOOK IT NOW. BOGOVE WATERFALL AND WINE TASTING — BERAT, ALBANIA We've been seeing Albania, with its ridiculously beautiful scenery, pop up more and more on our feeds. This small country is gaining popularity with tourists, and rightly so. Along with its stunning nature, rich history and warm hospitality, Albania's rich terrains also make it any wine lover's dream. So, if you find yourself in Albanian paradise, be sure to experience the best of both nature and wine with a Bogove Waterfall and Wine Tasting Tour. Located in the stunning seaside city of Berat, you will find the Bogovë National Park, where the iconic Sleeping Pearl waterfall practically begs you to jump into its crystal-clear waters. The tour takes you through the idyllic park with a scenic hike and swim, plus a visit to the historical Poliçan (the 'city of weapons'). After a healthy dose of nature and history, end the day at Pupa winery. It's the perfect place to taste wine made with local grapes alongside traditional Albanian snacks. BOOK IT NOW. WINE AND TAPAS TASTING — LISBON, PORTUGAL Portugal's largest city is a global favourite, and overflowing with charm and culinary delights. If you are lucky enough to travel to Lisbon, make the most of it by embracing the rich wine and tapas culture. Let the local pros guide you with a premium two-hour wine and tapas tasting. Discover the diversity of Portuguese wine with glasses from small producers. Your drops will be accompanied by local cheeses, meats and more. The legendary Pata Negra ham will be sure to make an appearance (the most awarded ham in the world) and a selection of Portuguese extra-virgin olive oil. Your guide will tell you all the ins and outs of the local wine and produce, so you will end the day filled with delicious delicacies and knowledge to flex back at home. BOOK IT NOW. SAILING AND GASTRONOMY AROUND ATHENS — ATHENS, GREECE Greece is a must for Euro-summer travellers for a reason. Not only does it offer insane views, beautiful beaches, great nightlife and a fascinating ancient history, it also has some seriously good food on offer. And if you're stopping off in Athens on your holiday, you can taste all of it with a Sailing & Gastronomy Tour. Pick from a number of packages and enjoy a day on the sea. Gaze at turquoise blue waters and a unique view of the city while enjoying a feast prepared by a private chef. Expect a traditional menu with a variety of Greek delicacies, plus a well-chosen selection of Greek wine, beer and liquor to wash it all down. There is nothing quite like enjoying fresh Greek food under blue skies with the sea breeze ruffling your hair. 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 to destinations all over the world.
One won't stop cracking wise. The other prefers to say as little as possible. Naturally, they're about to become the Marvel Cinematic Universe's favourite big-screen odd couple. The former: Deadpool, as played by Ryan Reynolds since 2009's X-Men Origins: Wolverine. The latter: Wolverine, the X-Men hero that's been synonymous with Hugh Jackman for almost a quarter-century. The movie: Deadpool 3, which'll hit cinemas in 2024. Jackman has already busted out the adamantium claws in nine movies, starting with 2000's X-Men and running through to 2017's Logan, which was poised as his swan song in the role. But when you've been playing a part for that long, in that many flicks, what's one more go-around? After a non-Wolverine gap spent starring in The Greatest Showman, The Front Runner, Bad Education and Reminiscence, Jackman is clearly ready to get hairy again. [caption id="attachment_611846" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Logan[/caption] The news came via a social media video hosted by Reynolds, who notes that Deadpool 3 has been in the works for a while now. "I've had to really search my soul on this one. His first appearance in the MCU obviously needs to feel special," said Reynolds. "We need to stay true to the character, find new depth, motivation, meaning. Every Deadpool needs to stand out and stand apart. It's been an incredible challenge that has forced me to reach down deep inside. And I... I have nothing. Yeah, just completely empty up here. And terrifying. But we did have one idea," he continues. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hugh Jackman (@thehughjackman) "Hey, Hugh, you want to play Wolverine one more time?" Reynolds then asks, with Jackman strolling past in the background. "Yeah, sure, Ryan," Jackman replies. (And to answer a question you really should have instantly: yes, this announcement came with a throwback soundtrack, because that's the Deadpool way.) [caption id="attachment_611105" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Deadpool[/caption] The other huge news is that Deadpool 3 will form part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, bringing both Deadpool and Wolverine into the ever-sprawling comic-to-screen realm that's been going since the first Iron Man flick and will likely never ever end. The two characters have always been Marvel characters, but because of rights issues behind the scenes, they've stayed in their own on-screen sagas. But when Disney (which owns Marvel) bought 20th Century Fox (which brought the X-Men and Deadpool movies to cinemas so far), those business issues disappeared. Deadpool 3 will arrive six years after 2018's Deadpool 2. It'll also mark a reunion in another way. Behind the lens: director Shawn Levy, reteaming with Reynolds after Free Guy and The Adam Project. It's clearly far too early for a trailer for Deadpool 3, but you can check out the Deadpool 2 and Logan trailers below in the interim: Deadpool 3 will release in cinemas Down Under on September 5, 2024.
Oh, 2023. You've been an interesting one. With the cost of living through the roof hitting during a time when we were desperate to head out and enjoy our post-lockdown lives, it's been a real rollercoaster. If you want to send off this year in style, you're in luck. There are plenty of places celebrating New Year's Eve in Sydney with events big and small. After all, Sydney loves NYE. Whether you're eager to see the back of 2023 with a few champagnes in hand, or looking to start 2024 on a boogie-filled high with DJ sets and a good ol' d-floor session, a slew of Harbour City bars, pubs and restaurants are happy to help. We've compiled a list of the best Sydney spots to ring in the New Year with style — no matter your budget. While lots of events have officially sold out, there are still plenty of memorable parties that you can score tickets to at the last minute. And, if you've still got some fight in you, there are some cheeky New Year's Day kick-ons included. [caption id="attachment_798924" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image: Cassandra Hannagan[/caption] FREE Cafe Freda's: The Oxford Street iteration of this Sydney institution opened on New Year's Eve 2019/20, so the day holds a special place in the Freda's team's heart. As such, the corner wine bar is one to throw an end-of-year celebration, and this year is no different with its free NYE/third birthday party. Going down from 5pm–2am, there will be DJ sets from a host of Freda's regulars. Entry is free, and it's walk-in only. Barangaroo House: DJ sets, cocktails, water views and tasty eats will be available across all three levels of Barangaroo House this New Year's Eve. House Bar, Smoke Bar and Rekodo will all be hosting parties, with each space celebrating a different era, including the 70s, 90s and noughties. Free entry to all three levels means you can move between spaces throughout the night. If you want to secure a spot, you can make a booking — plus, you can also pre-purchase a bottle of champagne for the midnight countdown. Parramatta Park: A family-friendly New Year's Eve celebration is popping up in Western Sydney's Parramatta Park. There will be food trucks, a 9pm fireworks display and a pop-up bar. You'll also be able to send off the year to hits like 'UFO' and 'Pictures' thanks to a headline set from Sneaky Sound System. The Bank: Put on your dancing shoes and get ready for a huge night of celebratory tunes at The Bank courtesy of a b2b set from Dom Alessio and Adam Lewis. The best part? Entry is free all night, and the party won't stop until 4am. Marly Bar: The Marly is going neon across all three levels this New Year's Eve. The beloved Newtown pub will be throwing a free UV NYE Party from 8pm–4am with DJs filling the dance floor on all three levels of the venue, including its underground rave cave Tokyo Sing Song. The Newport: Up north, you can spend NYE waterside with the Barney Cools DJs and two fireworks displays at The Newport. The venue's also offering $7 schooners of beer and $10 schooners of boozy pub squash. Get down early, entry is free all afternoon, with a $25 cover charge kicking in at 6pm. UNDER $50 The Abercrombie: After eight years in the wilderness, The Abercrombie reopened with its 24-hour license intact this time last year. One year on, it's throwing a huge first birthday party on Saturday, December 23, and backing it up with a New Year's Eve celebration on December 31. Catch Human Movement, Troy Beman, DJ Macaroni, Flexy Ferg and Raquel, among a huge lineup of DJs running over multiple levels of the club. Tickets are $34–42, which includes up to ten hours of partying, with the tunes continuing way past the countdown, all the way until 7am. The Lansdowne: The beloved City Road pub and live music venue is closing out the year with a party catered towards anyone who attended the recent Paramore tour or regularly attends Good Things. The Lansdowne's cleverly named NYEMO Heaven & Hell Emo Night will kick off from 8pm on December 31 with emo DJ sets, themed drinks and a prize for best dressed. Tickets are $30. Harbord Hotel: Local favourites Set Mo will be ringing in the new year at the Harbord Hotel to close out 2023. The party kicks off at the Northern Beaches favourite at 5pm, with sets continuing until 2am. Tickets are $35. Club 77: Sevs will be running its Sundays at 77 program for NYE with Berlin-based DJ Claire leading the lineup. You'll be able to spend your New Year's Eve in the heart of Sydney partying from 10pm–4am at the beloved underground rave cave. Tickets are just $10 if pre-purchased or $25 on the door. Crowbar: Sydney stalwart Crowbar is bringing two of the hottest rock bands out right now to Parramatta Road with duel headline sets by Dear Seattle and Teenage Joans. The Toothpicks and Great Job! will be in support, rounding out a New Year's Eve lineup primed for local pop-punk and indie-rock lovers. Tickets are $46. UNDER $200 Dear Sainte Eloise: Dear Sainte Éloise is hosting a special New Year's Eve party so you can bid adieu to 2023 in style. The Potts Point diner will be open from midday, serving a seafood-heavy menu and hard-to-find wines. The set menu, designed by DSE's new Head Chef Elias Selloum, kicks off with small bites like kangaroo tartare and oysters, before moving on to French Provençal-style bouillabaisse, stuffed with seafood galore. You'll also be sampling drops throughout your meal from DSE's well-curated wine cellar. Tickets are $130. Manning Bar: The party crew behind Cockatoo Islands' beloved MODE Festival will be taking over Manning Bar with an eight-hour openair rave. International DJs CCL, Maara and Objekt will be joined by local legends Moktar and Mazzacles for the Camperdown dance party. Tickets are available through Resident Advisory for $81. Ivy: Merivale's multi-storey mega club is hosting two NYE parties. Carl Cox is headlining Defected Sydney in the main space, while LF System will be bringing their global smash 'Afraid to Feel' to the Ivy Pool Bar for an NYE Pool Party. Tickets to Cox alongside Danny Howard and Riva Starr will set you back $153, while passes to the poolside shindig are on offer for $67. Lady Banks Rooftop: Bankstown's sky-high bar will be hosting dinner at 6.30pm featuring honey truffle focaccia, roasted chicken, cauliflower, salads, gelato and canapes. Before DJ sets kick off from 8pm, continuing the party until the early hours of the morning. If you're looking for a spot in Western Sydney with panoramic views stretching from the Blue Mountains to the CBD, this one's for you. You can secure a spot for $179. Odd Culture: The beloved King Street wine bar is hosting a moody candle-lit celebration in its mezzanine level. There will be a banquet dinner and a one-night-only menu of rare and vintage cuvees. A seat will set you back $150, which includes all of your food and a drink on arrival. The Old Fitz: Wooloomooloo mainstay The Old Fitz is hosting a jazzy end-of-year party with Coucou Zazous providing the soundtrack. For $120 you'll be treated to champagne on arrival; a set menu featuring oysters, raw tuna, wagyu bavette steak and chocolate mousse; and live music. BLOWOUT Dean & Nancy on 22: Maybe Group's sky-high hotel bar Dean & Nancy on 22 is hosting a New Year's Eve party tucked into the Sydney skyline. There are a few packages ranging from $200 per person to $2100 for a booth of six to seven. Each booking includes a signature cocktail on arrival, champagne at midnight and a curated menu featuring jamon iberico, kingfish ceviche, scallop ravioli and octopus. FBi Radio's Jack Shit and Liz Ham will be providing the entertainment for the night on the DJ decks. Make a booking at the Dean and Nancy website. Hickson House: The building housing The Rocks' Hickson House is no stranger to a celebration, with the working distillery and destination cocktail bar set in the former Saatchi & Saatchi garage – the location of many infamous warehouse parties. For $320, tickets to this extravagant Sydney New Year's Eve party include an array of canapes, DJs providing the music and a premium three-hour beverage package featuring the venue's own gin, as well as wine, craft beer and house spirits. Best of all, you'll also get access to The Rocks precinct with views of the Harbour Bridge fireworks from Hickson Road. Whalebridge: Waterfront French diner Whalebridge is making the most of its vantage point right by the Sydney Harbour Bridge with a huge NYE dinner. Guests will be treated to a shared four-course menu, champagne on arrival and a deluxe wine package. Steamed Murray cod, aged wagyu rib-eye, caviar and creme fraiche tars, lobster rock oysters and raspberry vacherin will all make appearances at the feast. Tickets to the harbourside celebration range between $600–1000, depending on where you're seated. View Sydney: When people think of prime viewing locations for the fireworks, their minds often go straight to the CBD, but there are plenty of panoramic views to be enjoyed on the other side of the bridge. View Sydney is making the most of its vantage point and throwing an end-of-year soiree. The no-hold-bar cocktail event features four food stations — seafood, Texas barbecue, Asian eats and dessert — plus a full beverage package including Manly Spirits cocktails, Australian wines and beers. This view-heavy party will set you back a pretty penny. Get set to drop $636 on your ticket if you want to secure your spot. Bennelong: Wondering what the most expensive New Year's Eve experience is in Sydney? From what we can tell, it's Bennelong, Peter Gilmore's iconic diner below the Sydney Opera House where a booking will set you back between $1600–2220. If you have that kind of money to splash on a single night, you'll enjoy a four-course menu from the Bennelong kitchen, a premium drinks package, a glass of champagne on arrival and at midnight, and live entertainment. W Sydney: Much-hyped wave-shaped hotel W Sydney is now open, and it's sending off 2023 in style at its rooftop bar. There are a few packages you can purchase here. $550 tickets will get you into Level 29 and include a four-hour beverage package, canapes, a live hibachi grill and oysters. If you want to celebrate one floor higher, entry to Level 30 will set you back $899, with an oyster and caviar bar and after-midnight snacks provided alongside free-flowing champagne. Browse all of the packages to determine how you want to spend NYE. NEW YEAR'S DAY Field Day: New Year's Day tradition Field Day is back with another genre-bending dance-ready lineup for the first day of 2024. RÜFÜS DU SOL, Central Cee, G Flip, Genesis Owusu, Sub Focus, Ross From Friends, Claptone and Destroy Lonely are all on the lineup alongside fast-rising local DJs like Logic1000 and Dameeeela, plus The xx's Romy bringing her Fred again..-backed dance project to Sydney. You can still nab tickets for $217. Club 77: After partying until 4am on New Year's Eve, Seventy Seven is backing it all up the next day with another late night. On January 1 the William Street club will be hosting Dave Stuart, Trinity and Magda Bytnerowicz, with music pumping until 4.30am. Tickets are $10 if pre-booked or $25 on the door. Greenwood Hotel: Noth Sydney fave Greenwood is welcoming in 2024 with four stages of dance music, including a headline set from none other than Basement Jaxx. NYD 2024 Day One: Reverence will see more than 30 electronic tastemakers behind the decks from 1–11pm. Tickets are $104. Manly Pavilion: If you want to start the year dancing by the water, head up to the Northern Beaches for a DJ set from Winston Surfshirt. Alongside the local funk and pop kings, there will be DJ sets all afternoon long, and your $60 ticket includes a complimentary drink on arrival. Woollahra Hotel: Anyone with a sore head on New Year's Day can head to the Woollahra Hotel for the pub's Monday meal deal. You'll be treated to $15 mixed-dozen dumplings, the perfect recovery brunch from a big night of celebrating.
The Argentinian barbecue masters at Surry Hills' Porteño are flame grilling for a serious cause this month. The group is hosting a big ol' fundraiser in the form of one massive four-hour feast. The charity dinner will be held at the OG Porteño venue on Cleveland Street (now Porteño Events) and honours the group's suppliers — many of whom have been affected by Australia's recent catastrophic bushfires. While the menu has not yet been revealed, you can expect a range of Porteño's signature charcoal-grilled meats, delivered directly from the open barbecue and custom-built woodfired oven by chefs Ben Milgate, Elvis Abrahanowicz and Elvis's dad Adan. Think morcilla, chorizo, suckling pig and wagyu steaks, all served alongside fresh salads and paired with wines aplenty. That drinks list, created by owner Joseph Valore, will include heaps of local producers — including Frankly Bob Wines, Jilly Wines and Mallaluka Wines, plus wine distributors Franc About Wine and Puncheon Bottles. And all drinks are included in the ticket price, too. It'll go down on Monday, January 13 from 6.30pm and cost $195 all up (including booking fee) — and every cent will be donated to the charities involved in the crisis. For those who are unable to attend but still want to donate, the Porteño group recommends Red Cross, Vinnies, Salvation Army, NSW Rural Fire Service or WIRES. For fans of the space, this degustation is also one of the last dinners being held at Porteño Events before the group gives up the digs for good. Just one more reason you should grab a ticket already.
If you're itching to head off on a long-awaited, well-deserved overseas getaway once Australia's borders reopen to international travel, then getting vaccinated is likely part of your pre-travel plans. And, once you get both of your jabs, you'll be eligible to receive an extra bonus to put towards your next holiday thanks to Australian airline Qantas. Via its newly launched 'Been vaccinated? Be rewarded' vaccination incentives initiative, the Aussie carrier is handing out flight discounts, frequent flyer points and status points to Australians who've been fully vaxxed. Everyone over the age of 18 who has received both jabs can score their choice of one of the three rewards — as long as you're a member of Qantas' frequent flyer program. You can pick between a $20 flight discount for a Qantas or Jetstar flight, 1000 Qantas points or 15 status credits (which you need to move up tiers in the airline's frequent flyer scheme). If you've already had both doses of a COVID-19 vaccine and you're a member of the carrier's frequent flyer program, you can hit up the Qantas app from 8am on Tuesday, August 24 to claim your reward. Otherwise, once you've had both jabs — with Australia's vaccination rollout opening up to Aussies aged between 16–39 from Monday, August 30 — you can then do the same. Qantas frequent flyer membership is free, too, if you're not yet onboard. Also up for grabs: a year of flights, accommodation and fuel, worth around $85,450, which'll be given to eight people — one from each state and territory. To have your travel covered for a year, you'll need to win the prize draw. But, as soon as you hop onto the Qantas app to claim your other reward, you'll automatically be put in the running for the big giveaway, which'll let you jet between any destination that Qantas and Jetstar fly to and from once borders begin to reopen. Keen to nab a flight voucher, some points or credits? And to give yourself the chance to win a year of free flights, accommodation and fuel? You can claim away until Friday, December 31 — with just one claim per person, obviously — and then the mega prize winners will be announced in January 2022. Also, if you're wondering how you'll verify that you've been vaxxed in order to nab your Qantas reward, you'll need to use the Medicare app to access and upload your COVID-19 digital vaccination certificate before you're able to select your chosen option. The airline will then delete the certificate information once you've been through that verification step. Announcing the scheme, Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce said that "getting vaccinated is an important step that every Australian can take that brings us that little bit closer to life as we knew it. As the national carrier, we want to recognise those who have made the effort to protect themselves and the community." Virgin Australia has also announced that it'll be launching a new competition called VA-X & Win, which will hand out millions of Velocity Frequent Flyer Points and dozens of free flights to Aussie who've had the jab — and make one person a Velocity Points millionaire, with the lucky winner then able to put those points to plenty of use. It hasn't opened the campaign yet, or announced how you'll prove you're eligible, how to enter and exactly what prizes will be on offer, as it has opted not to do so until COVID-19 vaccines are made available to all Australian adults. If you're eager to look for vaccination clinics — to get vaxxed now, or to plan ahead for when you can get the jab — you can check out a handy online map that collates vaccination hub, clinic and GP locations. It covers all Australian states and territories, including New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland. To redeem your reward from Qantas' 'Been vaccinated? Be rewarded' vaccination incentives campaign, head to the Qantas app from 8am on Tuesday, August 24. For further details about the initiative, head to the airline's website. Top image: Brent Winstone.
Kevin Smith fans have to put up with a lot. His films in recent years have been akin to cruel and unusual punishment, especially when compared to his work in the 1990s that was comparatively affectionate and funny. His modus operandi these days appears to be to come up with ideas that are ripe for the cinematic picking — two friends making a sex tape to pay the bills in Zack and Miri Make a Porno; horny teenagers finding themselves in a fanatical religious cult after using an app to hook up with strangers in Red State — and defusing them of all their potential. In Tusk, Wallace (Justin Long) is an incredibly rich (six figures a year!!) podcaster who ventures into the unknown to experience all the weird and wacky things that America has to offer before going back to the studio to spend an hour telling his travel-phobic co-host all about it. Their show is called The Not-See Party, and as if the joke wasn't bad enough, Smith finds the time to explain it over and over again like the idiot at a party who goes around telling all the guests the exact same risque joke under the belief that he's funny. On one of his missions north of the border (cue terrible Canada jokes), Wallace is abducted by a psychotic madman named Howard Howe (Michael Parks), who wants to — and I am not making this up — turn his young guest into a walrus. Tusks and all. It is The Human Centipede Goes to the Canadian Wilderness and it is quite easily the worst film I have seen all year. It's not even because of the bad acting — Parks goes for broke, but there's little to be said of the rest (Haley Joel Osment and Genesis Rodriguez), and Johnny Depp goes so far overboard he needs a paddle — or the way the film lacks any sense or logic or scares to make it a satisfying horror entry beyond the gruesomeness of its third act. No, where Smith and his screenplay go so completely wrong is the laziness that overcomes the film. The jokes that come thick and fast can barely even be described as jokes. These are lowest-common-denominator gags that go for cheap, easy laughs over genuine smarts and wit. The horror is underutilised, the tragic nature of this character undermined by a stoner childishness that renders the material unwatchable. Even stoners deserve better than this. This is a movie that filled me with such contempt for its filmmaker that I want to swear off ever seeing another one of his films ever again. Life is too short for whatever cheap, cynical nastiness he has in store next. https://youtube.com/watch?v=trTTjvPCLJQ
There was a row of empty chairs at the matinee performance of The Baulkham Hills African Ladies Troupe I attended. Right in the front row, they seemed to stand in for the thousands, millions of people who have turned away, intentionally or unintentionally, from the stories told in the play. In a powerful two-hour exploration of violence, war, survival and hope in Africa and Australia, the silence, the emptiness of those chairs seemed to cut viscerally. The Baulkham Hills African Ladies Troupe is not like any other play you'll see on a main stage (though it should be.) It's not even very like the other verbatim/community collaboration projects you might have seen recently. It's a bit rougher around the edges, a bit less slick. It doesn't fit so easily into Belvoir's tiny Downstairs space — though it would easily fill a village square. It's a little more naive, and that is absolutely intended to be a compliment. Director Ros Horin is less concerned with exploring theatrical strategies than she is in getting stories heard in the clearest, most fulfilling way, for both the teller and the told. To this end, she uses four African women, all migrants to Australia and attendees of a cultural group organised by one of the performers (Rosemary Kariuki-Fyfe), three actors, a singer and two dancers to explore what brought these women to Australia, what they left behind and how important it is for them to be heard. It is not possible to render in words the absolute horror and degradation these women have experienced, nor can I do justice to the transformative experience of sharing a tiny room, actual air-space and ability to touch flesh with a woman who has not only survived, for example, being a child soldier and sexual assault victim in Sierra Leone, migrated half way across the world, started a family, returned to Sierra Leone retrieve her daughter and bring her to Australia, but is capable of standing in front of a group of one hundred new strangers every night to relieve the experience. There are no flashing lights, no amazing transformations, no clever tricks. Just the truth. Which is absolutely galling. Horin and team navigate this obviously sensitive territory with beautiful sensitivity, laying clear for the audience when an actor is standing in for one of the women, replaying for us rehearsal discussions about boundaries, and perhaps most importantly injecting a healthy dose of humour and joie de vivre into the proceedings, which provides a surely necessary note of hope. You see, the important thing is that these women got out. They got here. And they thrived. And they obviously believe passionately in their right to be heard. Up until relatively recently, sexual abuse of women was not recognised as a war crime. Of the thousands of men who perpetuated sexual, physical and psychological violence against women as members of armies or rebel groups, only the most minute handful have ever been prosecuted. Rape is such a common occurrence that African women are told there is no point complaining about it, to get over it, move on. The Baulkham Hills African Ladies Troupe enact the deeply radical decision to ignore that advice. The Belvoir season is, according to the website, completely sold out — but that's what they said about my matinee. As we hurtle towards an election which has been pockmarked with shallow, personality-based sniping, factual evasions and a race to the subterranean on refugee policy on behalf of both major parties, it'd be well worth your while to spend a few hours camping out at Belvoir in the hope of scoring a ticket to something that might remind you what a real problem looks like. And that Australia — as a nation, and as individuals of conscience — has a role to play in fixing it. Don't let there be an empty seat in the house: these ladies, and the thousands they represent, deserve your witness.
Need to find your way from The House That Jack Built to Hotel California? Or maybe you got lost on the Highway to Hell trying to find Penny Lane? This is what the world would look like if you could build a city from your iTunes library. A map of song titles, made by the creative collective Dorothy, is more than worthy of hanging on your wall. Song Map
Dust off your sombreros, amigos. The latest international excuse for a good time to reach our shores is Cinco de Mayo — a celebration of all things Mexican (which, if we’re being nit-picky, is really more of an Americanisation than anything but shh, let us party). In celebration, the folks at Corona and Beach Burrito Company Fortitude Valley are putting together a fiesta, complete with face painting by local street artists and the first ever Taco Time Trials Eating Contest. For the less competitively inclined but equally taco-happy, Cinco de Mayo falls conveniently on a Tuesday, and Beach Burrito Co’s regular $3 taco deal applies, so your pesos’ll stretch further. With what you’ve got left, you can sip salt-rimmed margaritas, down trays of tequila shots (not recommended) or share a bucket of ice-cold Coronas. And, of course, come prepared to smash and whack your way to glory, because they wouldn’t be doing Mexico right without pinatas.
It's news that we knew was coming, even if we were dreading it: iconic Sydney venue Frankie's Pizza has officially announced when it'll be shutting its doors — and it's less than a month away. The underground CBD bar, pizza joint and concert venue's last night of service will be on Sunday, December 11 before it closes to make way for the Hunter Street metro station. This final night also coincides with Frankie's tenth birthday, and will follow a run of farewell shows kicking off on Thursday, December 1 with a night that's labelled The Beginning of the End. Following this, FreakFlag Events is hosting The Final Feast on Sunday, December 4; Frankie's World Famous House Band will play one last gig on Monday, December 5; TNT Trivia will come to a close on Tuesday, December 6, offering a grand prize of a year's worth of Young Henry's beer; and on Wednesday, December 7, 2000s Australian rock icons Wolfmother will be performing at the venue alongside Hard Rock Karaoke. Frankie's first announced it would be closing last year, confirming that it was to be demolished to make way for the new Metro Station alongside neighbouring Sydney stalwart Malay Chinese Takeaway. A favourite among laksa-lovers in Sydney, Malay Chinese Takeaway has also locked in its closing date — Friday, December 9. The longstanding Hunter Street spot has, however, announced that it will then be reopening in the new Sydney Place precinct on top of Central Station once it is complete. In a statement on Instagram, the Frankie's team announced: "Here it is folks, the Final Campaign. We thought this venue would outlive us. We've seen trends come and go and steadfastly stood for RocknRoll through it all." "With the unstoppable momentum of Sydney City's 'infrastructure evolution' set to demolish Hunter Street in early 2023, we have decided on a date to depart," the statement continues. With live entertainment every night of the week, visits from rock 'n' roll legends like Dave Grohl and Debbie Harry, and one of Sydney's best pizza slices, the bar has had a huge impact on Sydney's live music scene. Across its tenure at Hunter Street, Frankie's has played host to musicians of all sizes — from local rock bands cutting their teeth to international acts looking for an authentic Sydney venue to visit while touring the country. Head to the Frankie's Pizza Instagram for the full details on its farewell celebrations (or commiserations). [caption id="attachment_637648" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Frankies. Image: Katje Ford.[/caption] Frankie's Pizza is open 4pm–3.30am Monday–Sunday. Its last day of service will be on Sunday, December 11. Top image: Katje Ford.
It’s time to stop fishing behind couch cushions and shaking piggy banks; the boutique hotel-hunters at Mr & Mrs Smith have unearthed 10 budget-conscious escapes that won’t need a second mortgage. These ten wallet-friendly stays made the shortlist for ‘Best Budget Hotel’ in the inaugural Smith Hotel Awards, which just took place in London. Want to know the winner? You’ll have to keep reading. Best for bona fide bohemia: Brody House, Budapest, Hungary Smith’s ‘Best Budget Hotel’ is more like the private designer digs of a swish friend than a hotel. Brody House is bursting with creative inspiration and can add sometime-host to film and fashion shoots to its artistically inclined resume. Each room has its own unique style — some feature freestanding gold bath tubs — and is named after the artists whose works adorn the walls. The Brody House Bar is open to the public and keeps pouring as long as guests keep sipping; there’s also an honesty bar, so you can tap into your inner mixologist. An in-house chef prepares simple and seasonal Hungarian fare that changes daily and is best enjoyed in the picturesque courtyard. Best for pool-side hedonism: Ace Hotel & Swim Club, Palm Springs, United States Escape the desert heat and hop into the cool cocktail that is Ace Hotel & Swim Club: a reinvented hotel haven, luring in pleasure-seekers, bohemian-beauties and the hipster-chic. Designed with an organic, laidback ethos, some rooms have garden patios and fireplaces, record players and old vinyl. Brave the heat by renting a candy-coloured Vespa or booking a horse-riding lesson. Those reluctant to venture away from the cool comfort of air-conditioning may prefer languidly lying in a hammock and working through the bar’s cocktail menu. The King’s Highway restaurant (formerly a roadside Denny’s diner) dishes up classic American fare with dashes of the unexpected, such as kurobuta pork chops and roasted halibut cheeks. Best for culture vultures: Home Hotel, Buenos Aires, Argentina Click your heels and escape to Home Hotel, a green dream hidden away in an ivy-entwined structure in residential Buenos Aires. The eco-design and open-air pleasures – an outdoor passageway leads to the restaurant overlooking the gorgeous grounds – extend through to the rooms, which are tricked out with retro Scandinavian furnishings and vibrant vintage wallpaper in pretty florals. Take in an obligatory tango performance and a Lloyd Webber-inspired stroll to the grave of Eva Perón, before succumbing to the nimble-knuckles of Home’s in-house masseur, Luis. Don’t go back to your actual home without sampling delicious tapas and a Bloody Mary at the bar. Best for a romantic rendezvous: The Reading Rooms, Kent, United Kingdom Tucked behind a classic Georgian facade, The Reading Rooms is dotted with antique furnishings, preserved features and nooks for rekindling romance or igniting a new flame. Each of the three rooms occupies a floor of the restored townhouse and has antique wooden floors fit for a foxtrot, high ceilings and views over a peaceful tree-lined square. Begin days by dining on the in-room breakfast spread — bacon and sausage sandwiches, just-baked croissants and fresh fruits — before exploring Margate’s vintage boutiques and the picturesque Kent coast. Best for a rural romance: Borgo della Marmotta, Umbria, Italy Peer over the high stone walls at Borgo della Marmotta to find clusters of beautifully converted 17th-century farmhouses and stables, olive trees and views of Spoleto Valley. There’s no flash and pomp here; instead, expect a simple spin on luxury: rustic cobblestoned passaged leading to charming rooms and pockets of lush garden, pots of lemon trees casting shadows on the terrace and vibrant bunches of wisteria hanging from pergolas. Rise early to snag a table outside for a breakfast feast of sweet croissants, conserves, cheeses and cold cuts, before whiling away Umbrian sun-soaked days by the glittering blue pool. Best for artistic inspiration: The Cullen, Melbourne, Australia One for art aficionados and the creative coterie, The Cullen is inspired by the eye-catching and contemporary works of Adam Cullen — the hotel even has its own dedicated art curator, who has the lowdown on the top exhibitions around town. The gallery-worthy aesthetic continues to the rooms, where cartoonish prints adorn the walls and glass showers are engraved with Ned Kelly-esque horses and bushrangers — the views of Melbourne’s skyline aren’t half bad either. After a day of pedalling between Prahan’s fashionable boutiques — bespoke red Swedish Kronan two-wheelers are available to rent — don your newest designer duds and head downstairs to one of the eateries off the hotel’s ground floor. Gramercy Bistro brings a taste of New York to Melbourne, serving Reuben sandwiches, buttermilk pancakes and six cuts of steak to knock your oversized sunglasses off; Hutong dishes up dumplings and delectable duck. Best for a weekend wind-down: The Wheatsheaf Inn, the Cotswolds, United Kingdom Having played host to Kate Moss, The Wheatsheaf Inn has gone from traditional British coaching inn to bang-on designer den. Paintings of historic British tobacco barons keep a watchful eye over the Inn’s dining room, an inviting and lively eatery where seasonal produce is the star in a daily-changing menu and the all-day weekend brunch is best washed down with a Buck’s fizz. Between feasts, shooting — of the real and clay-pigeon variety — is up for grabs near this rustic retreat or, if you prefer something with fewer bangs, meander around the wallet-tempting boutiques of Northleach. Best for beach bliss: Mia Resort, Nha Trang, Vietnam A sojourn at Mia Resort — once a sugarcane plantation — will certainly leave a sweet taste in your mouth. This sandy getaway is neighboured by imposing mountains, lush greenery and beyond-blue waters, where days are spent moseying barefoot between the turquoise pool, sun loungers and Xanh Spa. Sea-frolicking is thirsty work and Mojitos bar serves at least eight varieties (if we miscounted, blame the rum); sip your way through ginger, whatijo (watermelon), lemon and lychee libations. Nab a spot on the sugar-sand beach for a sunset picnic, complete with a hamper groaning with sandwiches, cupcakes, a cheeseboard and carafe of fruit juice — just make sure to book ahead. Best for palatial paradise: Baudon de Mauny, Languedoc-Roussillon, France Walk through the heavy, centuries-old wooden front door at Baudon de Mauny and into the quiet cobbled courtyard to feel instantly at ease. Sprawling rooms are coupled with vintage-inspired furnishings and contemporary cool to create an escape with style so sophisticated, it could only be French. After exploring the local markets and brocantes, recline on the antique scarlet sofas in the first-floor salon, a glass of Faugeres in hand. Best for coastal calm: Chapman House, Nantucket, United States Forget ships in glass bottles and cliched beach-themed interiors: at Chapman House, nautical stripes have been replaced with pops of teal, coral and ikat prints. A kingly Continental breakfast is served each morning — fresh-baked breads and croissants, homemade muffins, fruits, cheese and granola parfaits — the perfect preface to a stroll around the harbour town or a series of aquatic adventures, including sailing lessons, whale watching, fishing excursions and sea kayaking. You don’t need a reason to return to boutique base-camp but Chapman House gives you one anyway: freshly baked cookies are your afternoon treat here. For more Mr & Mrs Smith boutique hotels, visit www.mrandmrssmith.com or call the expert Travel Team on 1300 896 627. Smith guests enjoy exclusive extras at all stays.
In one shot a man lays submerged, upside-down in a lake, ripples radiating outwards. The only hint of life held in his outstretched arms. In another we see a lonely northern hemisphere street corner where daily grinders hurry, briefcases in hand, to the warmth of their offices. The first has something eerie, lonesome and Ophelia-esque to it, while the second looks like the unhappy sequel to Hopper’s Nighthawks. Both distinct images make up part of Christopher Riggert’s eight-years-in-the-making exhibition The Chemistry of Sympathy at Challis Studios. Riggert says he shoots things just as he finds them, that "they are discovered moments of everyday people and places". But how then does he get such a strong narrative element in there? Well, he's been shooting film since his dad gave him a camera at age 11, so not only does he know his equipment, but his day job as a commercials director plays into it too. Setting the clock back on zero with this exhibition, Riggert can now embark on another eight years of documenting the everyday.
When news first broke of Sacha Baron Cohen's new film about a Middle Eastern dictator, it was difficult not to feel like the greatest idea for a comedy had been staring us all in the face and only he'd been clever enough to see it. Despots and madmen like Hussein, Kim Jong-Il and Gaddafi, wait … Kaddafi? Qadhaf- … like bin Laden were already so ripe for parody that the script would almost have written itself, not to mention the added benefit of not having to worry too much about allegations of slander. Add to that the phenomenal events of the Arab Spring and the overthrowing of both the above leaders and their contemporaries and The Dictator seemed poised to be the perfect film for the perfect time. Unfortunately, however, it instead feels like the kind of film a real dictator would have penned and put into production without anyone offering any sort of constructive criticism for fear of being executed. There are definitely some funny moments, and even a few brilliant ones, but on the whole it's a disappointingly infantile film lacking in so much of the subtlety that's underscored Baron Cohen's previous work. "Subtlety?" you say. Well yes — beneath the trademark political incorrectness and gross-out humour of a movie like Borat lurked Baron Cohen's artful capacity for revealing the ludicrous nature of his interviewees' prejudices. Perhaps it was the ambush nature of his earlier films — something no longer possible due to the notoriety they earned him — but exposing a person as a bigot is quite a different beast to simply creating a character and having him say the same sorts of derogatory things. In that sense, The Dictator is consistently offensive, and not in a way that should automatically be excused as 'edgy' or 'provocative'. If anything, it's just lazy. When it's not being so misogynist or homophobic, the jokes largely fall under the three broad areas of urination, defecation or masturbation, and one can only laugh so much at that kind of humour before it grows tiresome. Traditionally we call that period: 'puberty'. https://youtube.com/watch?v=cYplvwBvGA4
Do you remember the first time you complained, "I hate Christmas?" If you've never said it, can you pinpoint precisely when the build-up and family politics began to give you mild panic attacks? At the very least, carol fatigue syndrome? Chances are you weren't 10 years old. When you're 10, you're still in love with the Day itself (as well as counting down the days leading up to it). You've started to suspect that Santa Claus isn't really the red-suited sky ranger that you once thought, and realised that there are undeniable logistical problems with flying reindeer, pixies and elves. You may vaguely comprehend that the magic isn't in the man who drinks milk and eats cookies, it's in the spirit of togetherness. But you're still stubbornly clinging to the childish certainty that on the 25th of December, nobody fights, nothing goes wrong, and everyone is happy. For 10-year old Freya (an effervescent Holly Austin), her dad's casual announcement that he may spend Christmas working on an offshore oil rig is devastating. It steels her determination that the limited number of days they do have together be extra perfect. Freya's family is pretty fractured — her Mum is dead, her widowed Nan is sweet but totally out of tune with the needs of a young girl, and her best friend Poppy is just a tad unadventurous. Life gets pretty boring in the Tasmanian seaside town of Rainwood for Freya — it's no wonder Christmas is a big deal. She even feigns joy when her dad gives her a vintage air rifle. But then her Dad and Nan start fighting, and a body washes up on the shore. The set design of Boxing Day is simple and the stage is beautifully used. Co-presented by the Tamarama Rock Surfers, it is the first major work by Sydney-based Tin Shed Theatre Company, which writer Phil Spencer formed with the director, Scarlet McGlynn. It's hard to say too much about this coming-of-age story without giving away the ending. Suffice to say, there's a reason that it's called Boxing Day. Freya has a Christmas to remember — just not in the picture-perfect way she planned. This is a review of the September 2011 production at the Old Fitzroy Theatre. Boxing Day comes to the Bondi Pavilion for two nights only before going on a regional tour. https://youtube.com/watch?v=s2u0XDzL5ks
Want to get back to nature without actually having to rough it? Lucky for you, you can now take in the rolling hills of Mudgee in New South Wales, all thanks to the region's first ever luxury glamping service. First opening in 2017, Sierra Escape is located 20 minutes drive from Mudgee's town centre and some 260 kilometres north-west of Sydney. It boasts spectacular views, and is home to wildlife including kangaroos, deer and a variety of native birds — so yeah, basically it's paradise. Campers clearly agree, with its decadent accommodation unsurprisingly proving popular, and the 280-acre property adding two new tents to cater to demand. While the site's original tent — if you can even call something this opulent a tent — is still going strong, its two newcomers kick things up a few notches. One sleeps seven in a space that features two queen beds, a single trundle and a second bedroom with a double bed. The other is a secluded hilltop getaway for two that comes with a complimentary bottle of local bubbles and local chocolate, and a breakfast pack. For $450 per night, groups staying in Dulili will also enjoy their own designer kitchen, wood fireplace, floor-to-ceiling windows, glass sliding doors, large indoor and outdoor dining tables, plus a firepit area and a bathroom with a shower and flushing toilet. Or, those wanting a romantic jaunt away from the big smoke will spend $550 per night for all of the above, as well as a king bed — naturally — and indoor and outdoor freestanding bathtubs. All three of Sierra Escape's tents, including the $290-per-night Carinya, are insulated for all seasons, and include outdoor areas where you can kick back and watch the sunset. The new tents are available to book from June 1. For more information visit www.sierraescape.com.au.
If your experience with hats goes about as far as throwing on a beanie or cap, Strand Hatters will change all that. The unassuming hat shop located inside the CBD's historic Strand Arcade feels as though it's from another time. The dark oak and brass finishes ooze old-worldly charm, while the shelves are stacked with a specialised offering of Kangol, Akubra, and Brixton designs. Aside from hats, you'll find a small selection of other accessories to accompany your new look, including fancy picnic blankets, scarves, canes and umbrellas. Don't know where to start? Let the store's experienced hat aficionados work their magic to help you find your perfect fit.
Come 2026, almost a decade will have passed since Qantas proposed changing the way that Australians travel to two of the world's biggest cities — and most-popular holiday destinations — from the east coast. That plan: Project Sunrise, the initiative that's making non-stop flights from Sydney to London and New York a reality. It was first announced in 2017, ran trial flights in 2019 and has undergone delays since, including moving a 2025 start date to mid-2026. With its launch date now just two years away, Qantas is speeding ahead with the lengthy journeys, which'll join the Perth-to-London flights that began in 2018. (From Western Australia, the carrier also boasts straight-to-Rome routes, and just implemented Perth-to-Paris legs as well.) If spending all of that time on a plane sounds like it'll be an experience — the aircrafts are capable of staying in the air for up to 22 hours — the airline understands. Indeed, part of the Project Sunrise development process has been dedicated to ensuring that passenger wellbeing doesn't suffer, and also working out how to combat jetlag. Here's one solution, or at least a tactic to help: Qantas has revealed that its 238-person Project Sunrise A350-1000 planes will feature cabin lighting inspired by the Australian landscape, which will cycle through phases to help travellers adapt to the ultra long-haul voyage — and to the time zone when they disembark. The airline has been making the most of Hamburg's Airbus Customer Definition Centre, using a mockup of the A350 cabin to test lighting patterns and sequences, after the University of Sydney's Charles Perkins Centre conducted research during the Project Sunrise test runs on the inflight experience and reducing jetlag. Those learnings noted that some light spectrums work better to get circadian rhythms adapting. Cue plenty more testing, resulting in 12 lighting scenes for Project Sunrise's trips. Among them: using a broad-spectrum glow enriched with blue hues as an awake setting, which can also be softened; cycling through the tones of the sunset as it turns into a moonlit night, complete with clouds, to get travellers ready to go to sleep; and replicating an Aussie sunrise, starting at the front of the aircraft and rolling out to the back, when it's time to greet either London or NYC. Boarding, taxiing, take-off, sleep, landing and disembarking also have their own lighting modes. The planes will feature wellbeing zones that'll sport the colours of a daytime sky, clouds and all, when the flight is in its daytime setting. The same space will move to moonlight and water rippling during the journey's evening phase. And for those flush with cash, the enclosed first-class suites will let passengers fully customise their own lighting. As advised back in 2023, those wellbeing zones on the stopover-free hauls will sit between the 140-seat economy and 40-seat premium economy cabins. Inside, stretch handles and an exercise program guided via screens will get you active, while refreshments will be on offer at the hydration station. As for the cabins themselves, every seat will have free wifi, USB-C charging ports and also wireless charging and bluetooth connectivity so that you can use your own headphones — and, they'll feature in good news for your body, Qantas' most-generous seat pitches yet, plus ergonomic leg and foot rests. Qantas' direct flights from Sydney to London and Sydney to New York are set to take to the air in mid-2026. For more information, head to the Qantas website.
Northern Sydney is set to welcome an impressive new addition, with sprawling, multi-level pub The Governor slated to open its doors in Macquarie Park next month. If plans unveiled today are anything to go by, this one's got all the makings of a quintessential Aussie boozer, boasting a roomy front bar and bistro, a garden terrace for those al fresco sessions, and even its very own rooftop bar, complete with 360-degree views. From the same group behind large-scale watering holes like the Australian Hotel & Brewery and the Bella Vista Hotel, The Governor is angling to be a crowd-pleaser, offering a little something for every mood, occasion and time of the week. The main bar and bistro is decked out in dark timber, royal green and foliage aplenty, with cosy booths that take their design cues from old-school train carriages. Settle in by the open fire, or out under the festoon lighting of the leafy terrace. To match the variety of spaces, Head Chef Luke Lashford has put together a broad food offering — with everything from teriyaki chicken poké and a range of woodfired pizzas, to a slow-cooked Flinders Island lamb shoulder, best shared between two in one of those intimate booths. The drinks list is designed to complement, featuring old favourites alongside crafty seasonal creations. Upstairs, rooftop bar Ess boasts a bar and kitchen of its own, an Asian-inspired menu heroing the Japanese charcoal grill. Venture up for the likes of wagyu beef skewers, glazed yakitori wings or the torched-to-order atlantic salmon, teamed with gin-pickled shimeji mushrooms. The Governor is slated to open at 9-13 Waterloo Rd, Macquarie Park in early July. We'll keep you posted when we hear an exact opening date.
Know what's never not funny? Funny stuff. It's pretty hard to go wrong if your aim is to get people laughing. It's only robots and Bob Katter who don't like laughing at things. Working on this premise, the good people at the Standard are preparing to host their inaugural monthly alternative comedy night. And they've called it Never Not Funny, because who doesn't enjoy a double negative? Never Not Funny is the brainchild of Campfire Collective, who've organised comedy for Harvest and Peats Ridge Festivals as well as Late Night Library at Surry Hills Library. Promising to feature stand-up, theatre, sketch, music, performance art and anything else to make you giggle, the Standard is making an effort to muscle in as a serious contender on Sydney's comedy scene. And they swear never to stage bad impro, which is a blessed relief. The first people to take the comedic stage at the Standard include Applespiel, Cameron Knight, Dave Jory, Ben Ellwood, Nick Capper, Ben Jenkins and more. The lineup will be different every month, so check in with the Standard website.
Every Wednesday and Thursday night this autumn and winter, Handpicked Wines is hosting a series of Raclette Suppers at its cellar door in the Chippendale, bringing a taste of Europe's après-ski culture to Sydney. Melted cheese, served fresh from the wheel, is poured over plates of potatoes, confit mushrooms, heirloom tomatoes, cornichons and rocket. Cured meats such as Prosciutto di San Daniele and Jamón Ibérico de Bellota are optional extras. With the Handpicked Wine Maker's Flight, visitors can pair their cheese with wines from some of Australia's most renowned wine regions, including Margaret River, Coonawarra and Yarra Valley. According to Handpicked's Sydney Cellar Door Manager Andrew Robinson, the events "bring our team's passion for regionality onto your plate, with cheese and meat sourced from some of our favourite producers around the world. Combine it with our incredible wines from some of Australia's best-loved wine regions, and it's a match made in heaven." The dining event runs from 5.30–8.30pm every Wednesday and Thursday until the end of winter, and costs $20 per person without any additions. Walk-ins are welcome, but bookings are recommended at the website.
Following the lead of well-stocked, handpicked whisky bars like The Baxter Inn or the new Dram Club-curated back room of Jacksons on George, Surry Hills staple The Clock Hotel has opened a brand new single malt-happy room out the back. Decked out like an old-timey saloon out the back of the Crown Street pub, The Whisky Room has been a project a long time coming for owners Solotel, dropping over 100 whiskies, chesterfield booths and swinging half-doors into Crown Street's newest addition. Open Wednesday through to Saturday, The Whisky Room has been stocked to the rafters of whisky's usual suspects (Islay, the Highlands, US) alongside handpicked favourites from Australia, New Zealand, Taiwan and Japan. Whether you're a fan of a fresh Hakushu Distiller's Reserve or an all-out Sullivans Cove American Oak, there's a metric phucktonne of whiskies behind the bar — and bartenders who actually know their stuff. If you're a newcomer to the whisky world, bar manager Daniel Molnar will show you the ropes with a few cocktails. From the crispy Yamazaki-laden Japanese Highball to the mighty Penicillin (Money Shoulder, homemade honey-ginger syrup, fresh lemon, smoky Ardberg float), the paired down cocktail menu is tailored to suit the star spirit. Classic whisky-friendly staples are all on offer — Manhattan, Whisky Sour, Old Fashioned — and if you're a fan of the Shady Pines-popularised fresh pressed apple topper, there's a juicer at the end of the bar. Seasoned tasters might be more interested in the monthly whisky flights (focusing on one region, country or brand) and Boiler Maker specials — pairing a shot with a complementary bottle of craft beer. The team are also pairing food samples with their flights — Messina green tea gelato with Hakushu, ANZAC biscuits with a sadly discontinued South Island Single Malt 18YO, orange chocolate with a 15-year old Tobermorey. While the idea of a whisky room isn't new to Sydney, The Whisky Room is a welcome addition to Crown Street and a surprising little hidden gem out the back of a constantly refurbishing Surry Hills staple. Worth checking out if only for the Penicillins. Find The Whisky Room at the Clock Hotel, 470 Crown St, Surry Hills. Open Wednesday to Saturday. Images: Alana Dimou.
Every year, Japan comes to Australia — or, as far as movies are concerned, it does the next best thing. Since starting with three free film screenings back in 1997, the Japanese Film Festival has kept bringing the nation's many cinematic delights down under. Of course, they're going to do so again for their 20th birthday. Travelling around the country with a hefty lineup of movies so new, many are coming straight from the Tokyo International Film Festival this month, JFF embraces the vast array of big screen treats Japan's filmmakers have to offer. Sometimes, that means a poignant drama about a family banding together as a typhoon bears down. Sometimes, live-action adaptations of popular manga series are part of the equation. In fact, the 2016 lineup has both — and so does our list of the five must-see movies in the program. AFTER THE STORM Get the tissues out, Hirokazu Koreeda's new film is here. As previous efforts such as I Wish and Like Father, Like Son have proven, his dramas are tear-jerkers in the best kind of way, unpacking the ties that bind (or sometimes break) families, and understanding that the notions of love, loss, loyalty, sacrifice and struggling he depicts are absolutely universal. After the Storm promises all of the above as a separated husband and wife are thrown together during a typhoon. And yes, the filmmaker proves gifted at directing kids once again. Quite simply, he's in his own classic territory. CREEPY Everyone thinks of themselves as a good neighbour, however given the number of horror and thriller flicks that pop up on the subject, perhaps that's not quite accurate. There's something about exploring the very relatable scenario of trouble with the folks next door that keeps fascinating filmmakers and audiences alike, with Creepy the latest effort on the topic. Here, a just-quit detective moves to a new area after a traumatic incident, only to face a different kind of tension. As well as demonstrating society's collective obsession with neighbours, the film also plays with another staple: sometimes the quietest things can be the most unnerving. THE MAGNIFICENT NINE Not to one-up a certain iconic western that was only literally just remade with Denzel Washington and Chris Pratt, but a magnificent posse of nine folks is better than one with two fewer. Don't worry, there's not really already another take on the tale that actually first started with Japanese filmmaker Akira Kurosawa. Instead, The Magnificent Nine goes comedic in feudal samurai times as a group of merchants hatch a secret plan to outwit their lord's harsh tax regime, as based on historical accounts. KAMPAI! FOR THE LOVE OF SAKE Sit down for a meal in almost any restaurant in Japan, and you'll find sake on the menu. The traditional rice wine is the nation's favourite alcoholic beverage, and Kampai! For the Love of Sake attempts to explain why. No, the documentary doesn't just throw a title card saying "Hey, it's just really, really tasty," onto the screen and then roll the credits. Rather, it takes the personal approach by focusing on three specific people and their link to the drink. It's guaranteed to make you want to sip the stuff while you're watching. TERRAFORMARS You've gotta love Takashi Miike, who ranks as possibly the most prolific and eclectic of contemporary Japanese filmmakers. First, consider a few of his most recent directorial credits: a violent, unhinged yakuza vampire flick, a drama about a doctor volunteering to help child soldiers, a high school-set, game-playing horror/thriller, and an adaptation of a manga about cockroaches evolving on Mars later this century. It's the latter that's his latest, and like almost everything Miike makes, it's probably destined for cult status. Talk about not making the same thing twice, even when you've got 100 directorial credits on your resume across less than three decades. The Japanese Film Festival tours the country, screening at Brisbane's Event Cinemas Myer Centre from October 26 to 30, Sydney's Event Cinemas George Street Sydney and Art Gallery of New South Wales from November 17 to 27, and Melbourne's Australian Centre for the Moving Image and Hoyts Melbourne Central from November 24 to December4. For more information, visit the festival website.
Next time you sip a G&T, or whichever other gin cocktail takes your fancy, you could be drinking a new Australian label that puts homegrown ingredients to great use. That'd be Taka Gin, a brand that's just hit the market thanks to Melbourne's Niyoka Bundle — who has branched out into the world of spirits from her Indigenous-fusion catering company Pawa Catering. Like plenty of recent new businesses, the idea behind Taka Gin came about in lockdown, with Indigenous woman Bundle and her husband Vincent Manning inspired to take on a new project — and to continue to highlight First Nations people's native foods in the process. That's why their tipple heroes lemon-scented gum leaf and native lemongrass, two plants that the duo consider underutilised. They're paired with a base of seven other botanicals: juniper, coriander, angelica root, cassia chips, finger lime, orris root and desert lime. Taka Gin's key ingredients have been foraged from around Melbourne, and sourced from Indigenous wild harvesters, including via Natif Super Foods and Warndu. The gin is then distilled by Gypsy Hub at Collingwood's Craft & Co, and sold online via the brand's website, with a 700-millilitre bottle costing $90. In terms of taste, this is a smooth gin. Expect soft citrus flavours, as well as a fragrance that helps bring out the tipple's flavour. The brand takes its name from the Gunditjmara language, which hails from southwest Victoria, with 'taka' meaning taste. And, its eye-catching labels are designed by Bundle's mother and Gunditjmara Keerray Woorroong artist Vicki Couzens. Against a white background, the minimalistic images represent the phytochemical molecular components that comprise Taka Gin's flavours. Handily, Taka Gin is doing free shipping Australia-wide, too, if you need another reason to expand your gin shelf. For more information about Taka Gin, or to buy a bottle, head to the brand's website. Images: Marcie Raw Studio.
In 1931, Harold Bell Lasseter died in a desolate corner of the outback while searching for a fortune he claimed to have stumbled upon years before. Or at least, that's how one version of the story goes. The fantastical tale of a seven mile stretch of quartz reef filled with gold has lingered in Australian folklore, while its supposed discoverer has been alternately praised as a visionary and denounced and denigrated as a fraud. But more than eight decades later, one man still clings to Lasseter's legend: his 85-year-old son Bob, who has spent the bulk of his life searching for the reef in the hopes of clearing his father's name. A story of obsession and the allure of a tale well told, Lasseter's Bones is directed by British documentarian Luke Walker, a young man who, like so many others, heard murmurings of Lasseter's precious metal and came looking. Together, he and Bob follow the same track that Harold did, battling the same rough terrain and unflinching heat that slowly turned sceptical prospectors against the man who promised to make them rich. Bob and Luke prove a likeable if fairly unlikely duo — two men separated by generations but united by a single, common goal. But as the journey continues, Walker's faith seems to wane, especially after discovering evidence suggesting not only that Lasseter never found gold but that he may have faked his own death and escaped his investors to America. Ironically, while the theoretical purpose of a documentary is to expose or elucidate the truth, Lasseter's Bones demonstrates how difficult — not to mention, how undesirable — that task can sometimes be. Even as Walker presents multiple versions of Lasseter's story, it's obvious which one he and everyone else prefers. After all, who wouldn't want to believe that there really is gold out there, somewhere? That Lasseter never abandoned his family, but rather died trying to provide for them? That poor, kind, eccentric, optimistic Bob hasn't wasted his life, all on the word of a charlatan? Lasseter's Bones never gives us a solid answer. Rather, it suggests we might be better off believing the dream. https://youtube.com/watch?v=BC1vBos_kHo
Reviewing a Coen Brothers film is usually an exercise in inventively arranging superlatives, and True Grit definitely doesn't break from the mould. Following up their terrifyingly impressive neo-Western No Country for Old Men, Joel and Ethan Coen have gone toe-to-toe with the genre god himself — John Wayne — with their remake of his 1969 Oscar-winning film. Both are adaptations of Charles Portis' novel, which sees a tough nut spinster Mattie Ross recounting her adventure as a 14-year-old girl when she stoically set out to bring her father's murderer to justice. Teaming up with a dubious drunkard of a US Marshall Rooster Cogburn (Jeff Bridges), the straight-shooting teen (Hailee Steinfield) sets her sights firmly on finding the killer Tom Chaney (Josh Brolin). But as Chaney is already being hunted by proud Texas Ranger LaBoeuf (Matt Damon), a precarious and unwittingly comedic trio is formed out in dangerous Indian Territory. Adoring adjectives aside, let's just say that it's once again time to worship at the altar of the Coen Bros. Across the board, from casting to direction, to framing and editing, True Grit is master class filmmaking. Steinfield makes an astonishing film debut as the tenacious and dazzlingly litigious Mattie. It's a sight to see her diminutive figure in oversized clothes facing up to the likes of Bridges and Damon — themselves both in fighting fit form — and coming up trumps. But Bridges and Damon are similarly in their element on a production that exudes confidence, style and an infectious wit. As Rooster, Bridges can chalk up another winning character next to The Big Lebowski's Dude, while Damon is at his scene-stealing best, bringing his comedic chops and an incorrigible cowlick to his turn in spurs. True Grit is a sparse and simple story, whose delights derive from its wondrously affected dialogue dancing on the tongues of its pitch perfect cast. This humour and familiar storyline makes True Grit a refreshingly accessible, as well as a surprisingly sentimental, addition to the Coen Bros filmography. The Coens are often maligned for not caring about their characters (a charge that makes for vigorous debate), but their affection for Mattie and her plight is unequivocal. If anything, the film's coda — drawn from Portis' text — is a tad overstated and perhaps even unnecessary. Yet as homage as well as an impressive addition to the Western genre, True Grit is ultimately a testament to the filmmakers' true love of cinema.
Much has already been made of Peter Jackson's decision to turn the relatively short novel of The Hobbit (relative to, say, anything else by Tolkien or Peter Jackson) into three, three-hour movies. The first instalment of the 'wasn't-a-trilogy-but-now-is-a-trilogy' trilogy smacked of excess — a painfully slow and padded affair that looked and felt more like an in-store demo for big-screen TVs than a sprawling epic of men and monsters. The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug is, in that sense, a marked improvement. For one thing, it doesn't take an hour for something to happen. Instead, after a brief yet engaging flashback to the first encounter between Gandalf (Ian McKellen) and Thorin (Richard Armitage), the film explodes into life with a pursuit of the Dwarf Dozen et al, and remains — by and large — a pursuit to the end. In terms of the storyline, well, it's the same as the first film because, as you'll recall, it's still the same story. The dwarves, whose names are entirely forgettable (Boring, son of Boredom and heir to the Realm of Snore), are still on a quest to reclaim their mountain kingdom from Smaug, the gold-loving dragon. Standing between them are a ferocious pack of orcs (Windows Vista) and giant spiders (OSX). Fans of the book will be surprised to discover an Elven sub-plot has been inserted into the story, meaning fans of Orlando Bloom will be happy to discover Orlando Bloom. Jackson went even further, however, by inventing entirely new characters, most notably the she-Elf 'Tauriel', played by Evangeline Lilly. Fortunately, it's a gamble that paid off, because Tauriel's scenes are amongst the film's best, both in terms of action sequences and her quiet romantic attraction to the dwarf known as…I want to say 'Kili'? (Aidan Turner). Perhaps the biggest mystery, though, is why, in a film called The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, we see an impossibly small amount of Hobbit, and don't meet Smaug until well into the second hour. It's a giant misstep by Jackson in failing to capitalise on Freeman's outstanding performance, with the actor's every confused blink and chuffed nod of the head lighting up the screen. Similarly, Freeman's scenes with Smaug (voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch) are the undisputed standouts, reuniting the Sherlock duo in battles of wits and words that prove far more engaging than any of those involving swords. Languishing in his ocean of gold like a 747-sized Scrooge McDuck, Smaug is a delectably menacing villain deserving of far greater screen time, and Cumberbatch's mellifluous baritone voice is perfectly applied. This is a film with enough action to entertain and enough Tolkien to satisfy; however, it ultimately feels more 'distraction' than 'attraction'. As always, the world of Middle Earth looks exquisite on screen, ensuring Tourism New Zealand will remain in good currency for years to come, but it's also a powerful reminder that the unadulterated is almost always more compelling than CGI, and that no amount of special effects wizardry can compete with actual actors acting. https://youtube.com/watch?v=OPVWy1tFXuc
Melbourne has proved its love for fried chook will probably never die, with new chicken joints opening up all over town. But there's a new kid on the block you're going to want to take notice of and its name is Pelicana Chicken. A fresh face for Australia, but by no means a youngster, the brand is one of the original masters of Korean-style fried chicken, having launched in the country back in 1982. Currently, there are over 2000 Pelicana stores across South Korea, with another 1000 iterations taking the rest of the world by storm. And, now, the famed brand has landed Down Under, opening its flagship Aussie restaurant on Franklin Street in the CBD. Bringing some bold new flavours to the game, Pelicana's dishing up 11 different fried chicken varieties, from a wasabi and honey butter dusting to the signature sweet, savoury and spicy combination, called 'Pelicana Marinated'. All the chicken is marinated for 24 hours before it's cooked. You can grab a half or full chicken, in either boneless or bone-in pieces, slathered in your choice of coating. Adventurous diners might even be tempted to leave it all to fate, with the 'mystery sauce' option. Other menu favourites include fried chicken wraps, burgers, and a marinated chicken, chips and salad combo dubbed The Aussie Chop. A fiery kimchi soup and tteok-bokki — stir-fried Korean rice cakes — lean a little more traditional. Hold tight for Pelicana's booze list to launch (hopefully) in April and you'll be able to calm those spicier sauces with something a little stronger than kombucha and coconut grape juice. Think, buckets of imported Cass beer, Mountain Goat and Asahi on tap — and a tidy range of Korean soju, too. Find Pelicana Australia's flagship store at 163 Franklin Street, Melbourne. It's open from 11am–11pm daily.
First, the obvious news: in 2021, Falls Festival won't be unleashing a huge end-of-year music lineup. This'll mark the second year in a row that the event hasn't gone ahead, after skipping its usual December/January slot in the summer of 2020–21 due to the pandemic, too. But, come this time next year, Falls will be gearing up for its big comeback. Festival organisers have announced that Falls will return for the summer of 2022–23, so get circling in your diary now. That said, there'll be a few changes — including skipping its usual Tasmanian leg in Marion Bay, and also moving from Lorne in Victoria as well. Tassie is no longer on the agenda for Falls' next fests, while the Victorian event will move to Pennyroyal Plains in Murroon. The latter is only 30 minutes away from Lorne and less than two hours from Melbourne, handily. "It has been a privilege to operate Falls Festival in such beautiful locations and we're so thankful to the Surf Coast Shire, Sorell Council and supporting stakeholders of Lorne and Marion Bay who have shown Falls Festival such incredible support over the years. We hope that our Lorne and Tassie Falls fam will join us at Pennyroyal Plains," said festival promoters Jessica Ducrou and Paul Piticco in a statement. "Lorne is where Falls Festival started so we want to give a particularly special shout out to the locals there. You have been instrumental in making the festival all that it is today, and we'll always be grateful to the community for their long-time support," the pair continued. Falls spent 27 years in Lorne and 17 in Tasmania. The 2022–23 event will still head to North Byron Parklands in Yelgun and Fremantle Oval in Fremantle — and if you're wondering who'll be on the bill, it's clearly far too early for that kind of news. When Falls was planning to proceed last summer, it was going to champion an all-Australian lineup; however, with the international border situation changing, overseas headliners could be back on the cards. In addition to sitting out the 2020–21 and 2021–22 summers, Falls has had a chaotic few years all round. When it was held in 2019–20, the music festival was impacted by the bushfires, with the Lorne leg cancelled one day in because of extreme and hazardous weather. Falls Festival will return across December 2022–January 2023, taking place at Pennyroyal Plains in Murroon, North Byron Parklands in Yelgun and Fremantle Oval in Fremantle. Further details won't be announced until sometime in 2022 — we'll update you when more information comes to hand.
It's a yearly pattern: Halloween passes by, orange decorations are replaced with a sea of red and green, and suddenly we've all been hurtled into the throes of Christmas. To add its own taste of festive cheer, Krispy Kreme has announced that it's lighting up four of its stores with Christmas displays — and, to make the occasion even more jolly and merry, it's also giving away 4000 free doughnuts. The giveaway is running on Friday, November 29, which is when Krispy Kreme stores in Penrith in Sydney, Bulleen in Melbourne, Redbank Plains in Brisbane and Myaree in Perth will be hitting the switch on their seasonal lights. The chain calls these displays 'Krispymas', and they'll be lit up for nearly a month, shining bright until Friday, December 27. To snag yourself a signature glazed freebie (Original Glazed doughnuts are being given out), head to one of the aforementioned stores on Friday, November 29. In Brisbane and Perth, the activities start from 6.30pm, a choir will sing at 7pm, the lights turn on at 7.30pm and the free doughnuts will also be given out at 7.30pm. In Sydney and Melbourne, the fun will kick off at 7pm, carols will begin at 7.30pm, and the displays and free doughnuts will commence at 8.30pm. While 4000 doughnuts will be available nationally, that's 1000 at each of the four outlets. So, if you want to kick off your Friday night with a free sweet and doughy treat, you'll want to get in relatively early. They're on offer until close or until stocks last, whichever comes first, and there's only one available per person. Krispy Kreme's free doughnut giveaway is happening at the chain's stores in Penrith in Sydney, Bulleen in Melbourne, Redbank Plains in Brisbane and Myaree in Perth on Friday, November 29. For further information, head to the Krispy Kreme website.
International Women's Day is an opportunity to celebrate the remarkable women who've shaped our world. While there will no doubt be many thought-provoking talks, workshops and networking events focused on platforming powerful female voices happening this year, March 8 is also an opportunity for you to look inward, indulge in a little much-needed TLC and spend some time with the most important females in your life. In partnership with Revlon, we've rounded up some of the most empowering experiences that combine celebration with self-care, so you can honor the day while also prioritising your wellbeing. Start the Day with Stretches, Smoothies and Skincare Samples It's the girlhood holy trinity: yoga, brunch and free beauty products. That's what you can expect from our very own Get Up and Glow events happening in Sydney and Melbourne this International Women's Day. In collaboration with Revlon, we're hosting these early-morning events on Saturday, March 8 which will feature a 45-minute yoga flow, snacks and refreshments, and the opportunity to sample the goods from Revlon's Illuminance range. Spanning both skincare and make up, the Illuminance products are packed with skin-loving ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid and squalane, to hydrate and nourish the skin. A makeup artist will be there to help you find your perfect shades and provide help tips and tricks to achieve that coveted lit-from-within look. Our goal is to help you feel empowered and ready to tackle the rest of your weekend. To score passes for you and a mate to the event in your city, enter the giveaway here. [caption id="attachment_985808" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sense of Self[/caption] Zen Out With Your Pals in a Bathhouse If you and your pals just want to escape reality for a little while, visiting a bathhouse may be the answer. This age-old tradition is currently having a big moment with sleek wellness retreats redefining relaxation as a social activity. In Sydney, Capybara is our pick. Taking cues from wellness rituals from around the world, including Japanese onsens and Moroccan hammams, this Surry Hills spot offers a communal mineral bath, hot-stone sauna, steam room,cold-plunge pool and heated bench on which you can try an ice scrub. Melbourne's Sense of Self has many of the same facilities in addition to a Sud & Mud kit, which allows guests to try a self-led hammam-style ritual, and a massage studio. Treat Yourself... With a Tech Twist You've surely heard the many benefits of hot and cold therapy by now — it's said to improve circulation, muscle repair and joint mobility. But recovery science has come a long way and there are plenty more technology-driven services available to trial. With spaces in Coogee, Cronulla, Manly and Martin Place, RCVRI has Australia's first zero-gravity flotation bed, which is said to reduce stress and improve sleep and concentration through a 30 or 60-minute 'weightless' session in a stimulus-free room. RCVRI also has high-tech massage guns and pulsing leg compression therapy to soothe muscles after intense activity and hyperbaric chambers for increased oxygen. In Melbourne, Cure HQ Recovery also offers compression and hyperbaric oxygen therapy, plus IV vitamin drips. Venture into the Forest Truly immersing yourself in nature to relieve stress seems like a bit of a no-brainer. But how often do you actually do it? The Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, is the intentional act of going into nature and connecting with its sights, smells and sounds — no devices stealing your attention, no thinking about work. You can do this pretty much anywhere you please but if you are seeking some guidance, Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne hosts two-hour sessions every Sunday, while Forest Minds in Sydney runs private sessions in Lane Cove National Park, Bobbin Head and the Blue Mountains that end with a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. [caption id="attachment_785510" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Helena Dolby[/caption] Seek the Soothing Powers of Salt Water Whether your ailments are of a mental or physical nature, there's no denying salt water has some almost other-worldly effect on them. Of course, Sydney has no shortage of ocean pools to have a splash in but International Women's Day seems as good an excuse as any to visit the dreamy McIver's Ladies Baths in Coogee. This heritage-listed tidal pool is a little sanctuary open to "girls only" making it a safe space for many. In Melbourne? The iconic Brighton Sea Baths is the best place to swim about in the salty sea. If you are seeking a women-only swimming space, Collingwood Leisure Centre hosts a leisure program exclusively for women on Saturday nights (note: it's not saltwater). Make the most of International Women's Day by attending one of our Get Up and Glow events, held in partnership with Revlon. To be in the running to score double passes, click here enter the draw.
Fourth Village Providore has been a staple of the Mosman community since 2008, featuring a veritable medley of authentic Italian fine foods. Now the time has come to refresh its offering, with the relaunch of Fourth Village Panini Bar & Café. Serving as the latest chapter of this family business, diners can expect a welcoming communal experience where the simple pleasures of Italian cuisine ring through every dish. Bringing a new dynamic to the menu, panuozzo is set to be a standout favourite. Born on the outskirts of Naples decades ago, this classic Italian street food is where pizza meets panini. Made with woodfired pizza bread and stuffed with sumptuous ingredients, Fourth Village is offering delicious combinations like salami and mortadella with stracciatella alongside veggie options such as chargrilled Mediterranean vegetables. Drawing from the business' huge range of high-end goods, the menu extends into house-made focaccia, fresh burrata salads, pastries, woodfired pizzettes and Italian gelato. There's also a selection of tempting desserts, with Fourth Village renowned locally for its panettone french toast. Plus, it will undoubtedly be hard to resist a slice of tiramisu whenever you stop by for a coffee and panini. "While our restaurant has been a special place for many years, reopening as Fourth Village Panini Bar & Café has been a heartfelt evolution of our family's passion for sharing the authentic flavours of Italy with our community," says Dominic Quattroville, whose parents Peter and Annette founded the business. "The café brings a fresh and inviting space where everyone can enjoy our family recipes and traditions in a casual setting." The Quattroville family's culinary story dates back to 1997, when they purchased 100 acres of farmland in the Lower Hunter region. Now, the property's 3,500 olive trees are responsible for some of the finest table olives and handcrafted olive oils, whether you prefer Spanish Manzanillo, Greek Kalamata or Italian Frantoio. While olives were the initial focus, soon Fourth Village expanded into condiments, balsamic dressings, pickled vegetables and more. "Most importantly, this new chapter honours our family's commitment to genuine Italian hospitality, where every guest is treated like family. We're creating a space where people can drop in any time of day, whether it's for a morning coffee and pastry, a relaxed lunch with friends, or a quick afternoon gelato," says Quattroville. Fourth Village Panini Bar & Café is open Wednesday–Thursday and Sunday from 8am–2pm and Friday–Saturday from 8am-3pm at 5a Vista St, Mosman. Head to the website for more information.
UPDATE: SEPTEMBER 11, 2020 — Wonder Woman 1984 has moved its release date again, and will no longer release on Thursday, October 1. Instead, it will now hit cinemas on Saturday, December 26. This article has been updated to reflect that change. UPDATE: JULY 1, 2020 — Due to worldwide cinema closures and other concerns around COVID-19, Wonder Woman 1984 will no longer release on Thursday, August 13. Instead, it will now release on Thursday, October 1. This article has been updated to reflect that change. UPDATE: MARCH 25, 2020 — Due to cinema closures and other concerns around COVID-19, Wonder Woman 1984 will no longer release on its initially scheduled date of Thursday, June 4, 2020. Instead, it will now release on Thursday, August 13. To find out more about the status of COVID-19 in Australia and how to protect yourself, head to the Australian Government Department of Health's website. New Order's 'Blue Monday'. A giant mall. Women exercising in bright leotards and leg warmers. All of the above inspire instant visions of the 80s — which is where Wonder Woman is heading in her next big-screen outing. Yes, the fierce female superhero with the bullet-deflecting bracelets and Lasso of Truth is finally back, with Wonder Woman 1984 set to hit cinemas in 2020. Audiences have already explored Princess Diana of Themyscira's connection to Bruce Wayne in 2016's Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, stepped through her origin story and World War I antics in the original 2017 Wonder Woman, and seen how she works in a team in fellow 2017 release Justice League. Now, she's navigating the Cold War era and facing off against Kristen Wiig. The story this time around pits Gal Gadot's Amazon demigoddess against Wiig's Cheetah — also known as archaeologist Barbara Ann Minerva. While the franchise newcomer is looking rather meek and mild at the beginning of the just-dropped Wonder Woman 1984 trailer, she's not likely to stay that way for long in this eagerly awaited sequel. Game of Thrones, Narcos and The Mandalorian star Pedro Pascal also joins the cast as Maxwell Lord, a powerful businessman, and Chris Pine returns as American pilot Steve Trevor — despite the tragic events of the first film. Among the familiar faces, both Connie Nielsen and Robin Wright are set to pop up again, too, as Diana's mother and deceased sister respectively. And, behind the camera, writer/director Patty Jenkins is also back — as she should be given that Wonder Woman is currently the highest-grossing film ever directed solo by a woman. If you're a fan of huge action films based on comic books, you've probably noticed that 2020 is shaping up to be a big year for female-fronted stories, with Wonder Woman 1984 joining fellow DC Extended Universe effort Birds of Prey and the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn, as well as Marvel's Black Widow. The MCU has obviously been winning the cinematic battle in terms of size and scale over the past decade thanks to its 23-film saga to-date; however it doesn't escape notice that, when the latest Wonder Woman flick releases, three of the DCEU's nine films will have pushed women to the front. Check out the Wonder Woman 1984 trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sfM7_JLk-84&feature=emb_logo Wonder Woman 1984 was due to open in Australian cinemas on June 4, 2020, then on August 13, then October 1; however it'll now release on December 26 — we'll update you if any further changes are announced. Top image: Clay Enos/ ™ & © DC Comics. © 2018 WARNER BROS. ENTERTAINMENT INC.
This may not be a revelation worthy of a David Attenborough doco, but after years of hotel sleuthing, boutique travel experts Mr & Mrs Smith tell us they have the check-in patterns of men and women down pat: he sizes up the entertainment system while she susses out the bathroom situation. Then, after flicking on remotes and getting a whiff of Aesop toiletries, both gather to scope the contents of the minibar. When those half serves of wine and teeny bottles of gin won’t do, we suggest checking into one of these stylish wine region stays, all within cork-popping distance of world-class vineyards. 1. MONA Pavilions, Hobart Where: 655 Main Road, Berriedale, Tasmania What: Pinot noir and aromatic whites It may be the head-scratching artworks in the museum that draw crowds to MONA, but this multi-tasking maverick has much to keep you entertained once the gallery shuts its oversized doors. Situated on the edge of Hobart’s Derwent River, MONA Pavilions mixes a serene setting with ultra-contemporary pavilions and original art from luminaries such as Arthur Boyd and Brett Whiteley. There’s also lip-smacking restaurant Source and a cellar door that offers tastings of Moo Brew beers and elegant Moorilla Estate wines, made using cool-climate grapes from Huon and Tamar Valley. Book through Smith and you’ll get a private cellar door tasting and a bottle of Muse Series wine. More info 2. Spicers Vineyards Estate, Hunter Valley Where: 555 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin, New South Wales What: Semillon and shiraz Just a two-hour drive north of Sydney, the Hunter Valley is the ultimate wine-lovers getaway. Give yourself an early mark on Friday afternoon to beat the throngs on the F3, then check into Spicers Vineyards Estate, an adults-only sanctuary set among shiraz and merlot vines. Pop open a bottle of the estate-grown wine (free if you’ve booked through Smith), before slipping into the double spa bath. After a wow-worthy dinner in the hotel’s restaurant Botanica, a country-chic space mere metres from your suite, nab a spot by the fireplace in the cosy communal lounge. The next day, after a fortifying breakfast in the dining room, let Spicers staff arrange a bespoke tasting tour to standouts such as Keith Tulloch, Tyrrell’s and Andrew Thomas. More info 3. The Louise, Barossa Valley Where: Seppeltsfield Road, Marananga, South Australia What: Shiraz and grenache The Barossa may be best known for its big, ballsy reds and Teutonic tendencies, but there’s refinement to be found in the vale, too. Boutique hotel the Louise is a case in point: 15 sleekly styled suites with spa baths and private courtyards, plus one of Australia’s finest regional restaurants, Appellation. Reception can help arrange cellar door visits to Penfolds, Henschke and other regional heavyweights – bring a high tolerance level for intellectual wine-speak as you taste the best Barossa drops (expect to hear ‘toasty’, ‘berry’, ‘liquorice’ and ‘tobacco’ used at least thrice daily). Smith bookings score a bottle of sparkling wine on arrival, the perfect pre-dinner pep-up. More info 4. Empire Retreat & Spa, Margaret River Where: Margaret River region. 1958 Caves Road, Yallingup, Western Australia What: Sem-sauv blancs and cabernet Housed in an old stone farmhouse among rows of chardonnay and cabernet vines, Empire Retreat & Spa is a soul-soothing sanctuary in the heart of Margaret River. There are 10 modern-rustic rooms located in and around the central lodge, ranging from contemporary Lodge Suites to Luxury Villas, which feature a sunken lounge area, spa bath and courtyard shower. Hop between Margaret River’s surf beaches and cellar doors, such as Moss Wood and Vasse Felix, then head back to Empire. Here, fireside couches beckon for a grazing plate and a glass of wine (you’ll nab a bottle on arrival if you book through Smith), and the decadent day spa delivers sigh-inducing treatments including the three-hour Opulence session. More info 5. North Bundaleer, Clare Valley Where: RM Williams Way, Jamestown, South Australia What: Riesling all the way There’s more than a lilting hint of Victorian luxe to North Bundaleer, a lavishly decorated homestead on a 400-acre sweep of farmland. This is a decadent, all-inclusive affair, with meals and drinks included in the room rate, including evening canapés, killer Clare Valley wines and an open bar. Oh yes. Lord it up in the Red Room Suite, home to a canopied four-posted, sitting room with open fire and a bath and shower in what was once the conservatory (how very Cluedo). Nearby, notable locals include Sevenhill, Crabtree and O’Leary Walker for refined riesling and elegant reds. If you need to work off all of that indulgence, climb to the top of Maslin Lookout for sublime sunset views. More info
Like the sound of a power reformer strength class? Always wanted to try hot pilates? Absolutely pumped to sweat, smile, and soak up all the good vibes? Upstate's annual Open House Weekend is back, and you're invited. With free classes cranking across 17 studios in Melbourne (and regional Victoria), New South Wales and Queensland, this event — which takes place from Saturday, March 21–Sunday, March 22 — offers two days of electrifying workouts, as well as awesome prizes and offers. To celebrate, Upstate is giving you an exclusive 50 percent discount on its 30-day intro offer. Plus, you can score the first two weeks free, and two more weeks at 50 percent off by signing up for a new unlimited membership. What's more, there's a chance to win a 12-month membership — just share a photo or video during the weekend and tag @upstate_studios on Instagram. Whether it's yoga or heavy-hitting boxing that takes your fancy, Upstate's no-strings, no-catches classes are an excellent way to challenge yourself, have fun and meet new people. They'll take place across all Upstate locations, from Richmond and Oakleigh to Torquay, Ballarat, Five Dock and Palm Beach. Ready to go? Simply download the Upstate app and reserve your free classes. Saturday sessions run from 6am–4pm and Sunday sessions from 7am–7pm – but don't forget to check the schedule for exact times. Whatever your vibe, Upstate is ready for you.
Strong, simple and undeniably stylish, the martini is one of the world's most popular cocktails for good reason. Now you can sample a great version alongside a host of high-end bites, as Four Pillars returns for the third edition of its Martini Collective, running until Sunday, June 22. To do so, they've teamed up with some of the best bars and restaurants across Sydney, with each serving up a mini martini made with Four Pillars' Olive Leaf Gin. However, each venue has come up with its own snack pairing, giving you the chance to see which one couples best with your drink. Ten venues have joined the Martini Collective for its 2025 run in Sydney, including returning favourites like Shell House, The Charles, Le Foote and NOMAD. Meanwhile, newcomers include Bar Julius, Bistro Grenier, Bopp & Tone, Chophouse, The Grill at the International and NOUR. So, what snacks are up for grabs? Some of the most enchanting include Shell House's cruller topped with whipped fish roe and white anchovy, and Bar Julius' charred focaccia with macadamia and rosemary cream, green olive crumb and lemon myrtle. Don't forget, World Martini Day falls on Saturday, June 21, so get your pals together for a cocktail-driven celebration. Images: Declan Blackall.
We've hit peak 2017 — where virtual cocktails are a thing, there's a karaoke Ferris wheel and dogs have been invited to chow down on beautifully presented raw fish with chopsticks. A sushi bar for dogs is popping up in Auckland. Dog sushi has been a thing since the early 2000s as a way for owners to ensure their pup is enjoying a holistic, all raw, all natural, preservative-free diet. Auckland's version, the appropriately-titled Poochi Sushi, will take place at the December edition of Parnell's weekend market just for (very good) dogs. There will be three sittings of ten to 12 pups on the day. Small dogs have been recommended to register for the 11am sitting, and medium and large varieties for 11.30am and 12pm. The main course will be a platter of sushi, sashimi and Pawl Ale for $15. The way to any dog's heart is through food, so the platters will of course use premium king salmon direct from the Marlborough Sounds along with hoki from the Coromandel. None of that cabinet stuff. Seeing as Sydney has a bakery just for dogs and Melbourne has a cafe that exclusively serves up dog treats, we're sure that pooch sushi isn't far away.
More than 80 designer labels make up the Tuchuzy collection, which is dedicated to garments and accessories for trendy Bondi babes. On one hand, you'll find the latest and greatest creations from Aussie brands, like Bassike, Bec & Bridge and Dion Lee. On the other, you can try on a bunch of imports from the likes of Alexander Wang, Rag & Bone and Helmut Lang. New arrivals land every week or two, so there's always a reason to drop by — be it an Orly tote from WANT Les Essentiels de La Vie, a pair of Celine sunnies or a wrap top from SIR the label. [caption id="attachment_779687" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cassandra Hannagan[/caption] When Daria Sakic opened Tuchuzy back in 1995 — in a much smaller shop down the street — it was one of Bondi's only clothing boutiques. Supportive of home-grown designers from the get-go, she was one of the first retailers to put sass & bide on her shelves. These days, the large, well-lit store is on the ground floor of an upmarket apartment block known as The Beach House, just opposite Sonoma's Bondi Beach cafe. Images: Cassandra Hannagan
No drink gets the party started quite like an espresso martini. So, next time you want to kick on past 10pm, put that vodka Red Bull down and get yourself this cocktail stat. Not many know a lot about this boozy beverage — even those who love it. That's why we've partnered with super-popular coffee liqueur label Kahlúa, founded in Mexico back in the mid-30s, to dive into the history of the dance-inducing drink, to bring you fun facts to impress your mates with, and to give you an easy recipe for the classic cocktail to make at home. Because, like any good cocktail, the key to a moreish espresso 'tini is using top-quality ingredients. A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE ESPRESSO MARTINI While some drinks have been around for centuries, the fun-lovin' espresso martini is fairly new to the bar scene. First created by revolutionary London bartender Dick Bradsell back in the early 80s, the cocktail's birth is attributed to a soon-to-be supermodel asking for a booze-fuelled drink that would simultaneously wake them up. As vodka back then was the spirit a la mode, Bradsell threw a generous shot of it in with a shot of coffee pulled from the barside espresso machine, plus some coffee liqueur (our money's on Kahlúa) and sugar syrup, then shook away before pouring it into a martini glass. That day, Bradsell made history. Now, the espresso martini is one of the best-known contemporary cocktails. Walk into any bar and chances are you'll see someone sipping one or a bartender furtively shaking one up. While the drink features on cocktail lists the world over, Aussies can't get enough of them. Why? Perhaps it's due to our obsession for good coffee — or because we want to relive the good ol' dancing days of the 80s. Either way, you can get it at pretty much any bar, with some even having the super-popular drop on tap these days. FUN FACTS It's rumoured that Kate Moss or Naomi Campbell could be the model behind the birth of the espresso martini. Initially, the drink was simply called a vodka espresso, before coming the Pharmaceutical Stimulant in the late 90s. Now, it's widely known as the espresso martini. While the proper spelling — and pronunciation — is espresso, many dictionaries now cite expresso as a variant. So, if you're guilty of ordering the latter, you're technically off the hook. It's not actually a martini, which consists of gin and vermouth, but rather got its name from being served in a martini glass. Now, the drink is often served in coups and even tumblers. HOW TO SHAKE UP THE PERFECT ESPRESSO MARTINI AT HOME The Classic Espresso Martini serves one This easy, three-ingredient cocktail is one you can master without needing to be a whiz behind the bar. Plus, it's bound to get any at-home party started — whether it's just you or with your crew. Ingredients 1 shot Kahlúa coffee liqueur 1 shot vodka 1 shot coffee espresso 3 whole coffee beans Ice Method Pour Kahlúa, vodka and espresso into shaker. Add lots of ice. Shake it (like a polaroid picture) for about 30 seconds. With a strainer, pour concoction into a martini glass, coup or whatever vessel pleases you. Garnish with three coffee beans. If you're whipping up drinks for a group, you can shake up to three at a time, depending on the size of the cocktail shaker. Just be sure to stick to the ratios. Or, you can save yourself the hassle and get your hands on Kahlúa's Espresso Style Martini ready-to-drink cans, which are perfect for picnics if you ask us. Prefer to hit up a bar than be at home? There are numerous bars across Sydney that have espresso martini on tap, with a bunch offering a half-price happy hour every Friday in October. To see where you can get a cheap — and quick — espresso 'tini, head here. For more Kahlúa cocktail recipes to try shaking up at home, head here. Images: Kitti Gould
