Don't get stuck in the Bondi and Coogee bubbles this summer. Instead, branch out further down the coast to The Boatshed La Perouse. This coastal cafe, located just south of Maroubra, overlooks Frenchmans Bay and offers beachside dining, panoramic ocean views and a seafood-focused menu to boot. The venue is open for breakfast and lunch seven days. For summer mornings, grab a table on the expansive deck and tuck into the likes of passionfruit ricotta hotcakes ($18.5) and knafeh french toast with almond chocolate crumb, strawberry curd and rose syrup ($17). Or go for staples like eggs benny ($19.50), bacon and egg rolls ($10.5) and English-style big brekkies ($23). At lunchtime, the seafood-heavy menu features oysters, buckets of tiger prawns and pots of spicy tomato mussels. Enjoy a bit of everything with the loaded seafood platter ($80) — in addition to oysters and prawns, it comes with blue swimmer crab, salt and pepper calamari, seared scallops, barbecue baby octopus, crispy battered fish and chips, and an optional addition of half-or-whole lobster for good measure ($25–40). If this is little too much, you can also indulge with the half-lobster linguine for a more reasonable $28.5. Diners can also take in the views with drink in hand. Sidle over to the outdoor bar where you can sip summertime favourites like passionfruit mojitos ($16) or the vodka and watermelon Santorini Sunset ($17). And, to help battle those Monday blues, The Boatshed is now offering $2 oysters and $5 glasses of bubbles each week over lunch.
With a decade of degustations under his belt, British-born chef Nelly Robinson needs no introduction to Sydney diners. At his flagship restaurant NEL, Robinson's carefully crafted and often theatrical multi-course cuisine has earned him a reputation as a culinary showman, and at first glance, the menu of his latest venture shares the same show-stopping hallmarks of this signature mode of cooking. However, a closer look reveals Winstons — a tasting menu restaurant dedicated to championing British fare — as a departure for this trailblazing restaurateur. Rather than leaning into whimsy and wow factor, Robinson's first new venue since opening NEL in 2015 channels a more intimate, nostalgic spirit with a seven-plate meal (priced at $85 per person) that is as much a memoir tracing Robinson's personal and professional history as it is an homage to the flavours and culture of the UK. This venue within a venue is the fine-dining concept at the Nags Head Hotel in Glebe — a classic corner pub that has been pulling pints in Sydney's Inner West since 1836. While there are plenty of boozers in Sydney that can claim to have an excellent food offering, Robinson insists Winstons is the first true gastropub in Australia. While this might raise an eyebrow or two, Robinson's definition follows in the lauded footsteps of the chef-led pub ventures that have thrived in the UK, including Heston Blumenthal's Michelin-starred The Hind's Head in Bray, Jason Atherton's pioneering nose-to-tail diner The Blind Pig and The Three Fishes, helmed by Robinson's former mentor Nigel Haworth. "I was training with Nigel [Haworth] when I was 17 and that's when he decided to open the first gastropub in the UK. I was fortunate enough to be part of that opening team, so seeing that you can take restaurant-level food and do it like that, in that setting, that's been in my brain ever since," Robinson shares. However, it wasn't until the owners of The Nags Head, Momento Hospitality, approached Robinson about a collaboration that this decades-old dream was finally realised. The fitout is traditional but refined, resisting the low-hanging fruit of pub trinkets and hokey trimmings that could make the space feel like a parody. Parquet flooring, polished wood finishes, forest green leather banquettes and a collection of antique prints set the scene without stealing it. The meal begins with three snacks honouring quintessential British flavours. A delicate tart of prawn dressed with caviar is a light, bright mouthful of the sea to awaken the palate followed by a rich twist on coronation chicken, featuring a gently spiced filling between two slices of fried bread. Finally, a scotch egg, with a perfectly fudgy quail's egg yoke at its centre, brings the first course to a close with perhaps the most faithfully produced dish of the evening. For better or worse, stodge is an unavoidable part of many British dishes, but Robinson proves that there is a place for dense, hearty textures when executed with finesse. A bread course of pillow-soft crumpets is transformed into one of the menu's best bites courtesy of whipped chicken-fat butter topped with a chook skin crisp. With his clever and inventive degustations at NEL, Robinson has shown time and again that he is as much a storyteller as he is a chef. This is also true at Winstons, where the menu is liberally seasoned with personal resonances and touching anecdotes. The most charming of these has inspired a verdant and delightfully sweet pea soup, topped with golden-brown crumbed leek fritters, in tribute to Robinson's grandfather, whose questionable attempts at the same recipe often turned out to be more sludgy than soupy. Given its stature as the world's second-best dish of 2023, according to the TatseHunters of The World's 50 Best Restaurants judging panel, it was all but inevitable that Robinson's beef cheek Wellington would be the main event of Winstons' debut offering. The meat is marinated in black, pink and pepperberry peppercorns, slow-cooked for 15 hours and pulled into succulent shreds before being wrapped in a mushroom duxelles and parsley pancake and finally encased in spelt pastry. While purists might wince at shredding the meat instead of using a solid loin, it's hard to fault a dish that delivers such depth and balance of flavour — a Wellington truly deserving of its world-leading status. Another story Robinson shares with his diners comes in the form of a melting ginger parkin — a humble slab cake from the chef's native Yorkshire. This sticky, slightly spiced treat was one of the first dishes Robinson ever attempted as a child, so it seems more than apt that at a restaurant that draws so essentially from his fondest food memories, the meal should end where this visionary chef began. Images: David Griffen
With slouchy off-shoulder tops ruling the streets, Drake's Views enjoying an unexpected chart renaissance, and a King Kylie cameo, it feels like we've stepped into the rose-tinted days of 2016 lately. As friends and celebrities alike flood the feed with decade-old throwbacks, look out for flower crowns and American Apparel tennis skirts. Pinkish Rio de Janeiro-esque overlays on grainy iPhone 7 selfies. Zara Larson's Lush Life. Safe to say, the millennials are nostalgic. Amid the never-ending summer vibes, the cult TWOOBS platforms emerged. Founded in Byron Bay by sisters Jess and Stef Dadon, the brand recently marked its 10th birthday with a nostalgic post revisiting its earlier days. A 2016 snap aptly captures the founders decked out in neoprene Triangl bikinis and early prototypes of the now-signature OG sandals. View this post on Instagram A post shared by TWOOBS (@twoobs) The Dadon sisters were part of the primordial wave of fashion bloggers who turned their outfit posts into full-time careers. Howtwolive (it's still up!) began in 2012 as a daily outfit diary documenting their shared wardrobe while one of them spent six months in Paris. They became known for their playful, slightly absurd style — think doll heads, wacky prints, and out-there sunglasses — and, above all, a devotion to platforms. "We hated heels. We hated being uncomfortable," Stef shares. "That was where the seeds for TWOOBS were planted. We were known as platform wearers." The Dadon sisters built a following the old-fashioned way: first on their blog, and then on Instagram six months later. The early posts were, as Jess puts it, "taken in very lo-fi ways that would not fly on Instagram today". A stark contrast to today's collective urge to log off, she shares that people were hungrier for content in the early 2010s — her lunch breaks were spent scrolling through iconic blogs like the Olsens Anonymous. While an Instagram following translates to cash today, influencer marketing wasn't as lucrative back then. In fact, it didn't exist. For the sisters' first big break, they were flown out to Sydney to style and model in a campaign for a major brand. Their earnings? $250 in total, plus $150 worth of clothing. In 2025, that's the rough cost of an Instagram story from a microinfluencer. "It was a very different era, and we were definitely doing it for the love of it rather than the money," Stef says. "We saw how people started to get paid for their work, which was awesome... but back then it was much more organic and fun and freeing. Everybody was just doing it as a side hustle because they loved fashion." At the height of the absurdly chunky shoe (Jeffery Campbell's Litas set the tone), Stef recalls the OG sandal being likened to orthopedic shoes. Its adjustable velcro straps and sensible flat soles exuded a utilitarian streak once reserved for the outdoors, if anywhere. It certainly stood out at New York Fashion Week in February 2016, where the Dadon sisters debuted the sandals with bikini-clad models braving the -4 degrees weather. The OG still toed the line, though — a triple-stack version was regrettably recalled when a customer almost broke an ankle in them. A decade later, the OG and its taller sister, the OG+, are performing better than before. "People still call them ugly to this day, but it's kind of like, you want ugly shoes now," Stef quips. Lately, the sisters are partial to the BFF, a chic summer thong born out of "looking at people's feet" at airports. "We noticed men, particularly, wearing these daggy flip flops a few years ago. I remember discussing that on the right person with the right outfit, they could actually be pretty cool," Jess laughs. Eight chic colour variations also amping up the summer appeal; Jess's pick is a playful red tone called Spaghetti Sauce, while Stef defaults to classic black. The BFF is constructed to feel as weightless as possible — the toe post was only perfected on the seventh try — and its cloud-like soles star carbon-soaking sugarcane and bouncy natural rubber. All TWOOBS feature 100% recycled materials — one of the sustainable initiatives introduced to the brand after the founders witnessed the volume of waste in the fashion. View this post on Instagram A post shared by TWOOBS (@twoobs) Subcultures began protesting fast fashion – a term coined by The New York Times in the '90s — as early as the 1970s, but the trend cycle was unstoppable. For decades, sustainability remained the niche domain of anti-sweatshop activists and environmental campaigners, while mainstream shoppers chased bargains bucked by supply chains that could turn runway looks into $20 tops at breakneck speed. "I think price was really what was driving the customer so heavily," Jess says. "It wasn't for another few years until the conversation started to become really environmentally-focused." Like many, TWOOBS initially introduced a cruelty-free ('vegan' was the buzzy shorthand) ethos before moving on to greener pastures. From zero-waste packaging to recyclable materials, she and Stef have inched forward until they realised that a 'sustainable fashion brand' doesn't exist. But a sustainble-r one does. TWOOBS' Byron Bay location is fitted out exclusively through Takesies Backsies — a fun recycling program where old TWOOBS are exchanged for a cash voucher, and broken down to produce office supplies — and the project saved approximately 150 kilograms of plastic from landfill. Today, the store accepts non-TWOOBS shoes too. As cozzie livs strikes again, Jess and Stef are observing an unsettling Temu and SHEIN resurgence. Consumer focus has shifted yet again and TWOOBS has repackaged itself, but that doesn't mean that sustainable-r practices go out the window. "If we can convince everyone to buy our shoes because they're so comfy and so cool, then we're convincing people to buy better for the planet." Find out more about TWOOBS story and shop the collection online. Images: supplied
Get ready to feel like a big kid again, because Luna Park is reopening this winter. Yep, after a few quiet months, the fun-filled harbourfront venue is switching the neon lights back on, so you can get your kidult thrills once again. Just in time for the school holidays, Luna Park will reopen from 10am on Friday, July 3. So, you'll be riding the ferris wheel, bumping your way around the dodgem rink and tearing your way down the Hair Raiser at 80 kilometres per hour in no time. Then, you can take a ride on the carousel, zoom around on the old-school rollercoaster, Wild Mouse, and hit up Coney Island to race down gigantic slides. For the relaunch, the fun park will be offering unlimited ride passes for a flat rate of $50, with two four-hour sessions available daily, from 10am–2pm and 3–7pm. To sweeten the deal, your ticket will include one sideshow game and a $10 voucher to spend on snacks. You can opt for burgers and hotdogs from Helter Kelter Cafe, buttermilk southern fried chook and pulled beed po' boy from The Hungry Horse, gelato cones from the Ice Cream Parlour and, of course, fairy floss. For passes, head here. Of course, there'll be more restrictions than usual due to COVID-19, so expect extra cleaning measures and entry requirements, such as temperature and identity checks. After that, let the fun begin. Luna Park is reopening from 10am on Friday, July 3. It will be open daily, with two sessions available, 10am–2pm and 3–7pm.
Anything can happen at Dark Mofo. One of two massive arts festivals run by Tasmania's Museum of Old and New Art, the winter event has always prided itself on being a fest where the dark, sinister, confronting and boundary-pushing come together, sometimes for better and sometimes for worse. So, for its first program announcement for 2023, a wild dance theatre performance inspired by Dante's The Divine Comedy sounds completely in the event's wheelhouse. That production is A Divine Comedy, hailing from Austrian choreographer and performance artist Florentina Holzinger, and hitting Dark Mofo as both an Australian premiere and an Aussie exclusive. Playing for three days throughout the festival's Thursday, June 8–Thursday, June 22 dates for 2023, it dives into the hell, purgatory and paradise of Dante's classic work, all to explore how humans negotiate life and death. "We are thrilled to present Florentina Holzinger's A Divine Comedy for Dark Mofo 2023. She is a super-talented artist who is brazenly contemporary and culturally relevant," Creative Director Leigh Carmichael said, announcing the news. "This is the most incredibly wild theatre performance that we have presented in the history of Dark Mofo. Its scale is unprecedented and bold, a fitting highlight for our tenth festival. We can safely say the audience will be anything but bored." Holzinger is known for making challenging and provocative theatre, and for exploring gender relations — including how women's bodies are represented in art and media. For A Divine Comedy, she's staging the whole show as a giant autopsy room, in fact, then unleashing choreography that dances with existence, mortality, the end that awaits us all, and our struggle to cope with what that all means. Dark Mofo attendees will watch a cast of all-female-identifying performers spanning all ages, as well as a variety of physical, musical and athletic disciplines, take to the stage for the work. And, they'll see nude performers, slapstick acts, bodily substances and references to slasher movies as well — plus a jam-packed selection of nods to art and dance's respective histories. A Divine Comedy will play Dark Mofo from Friday, June 16–Sunday, June 18, with the rest of the fest's program set to be revealed this autumn. Whatever else joins the bill to help the event officially hit ten years, it'll be part of Carmichael's last at the helm. He'll step down after Dark Mofo 2023, making way for a new Artistic Director from 2024 onwards. [caption id="attachment_846523" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Winter Feast, Dark Mofo 2021, Dark Mofo/Jesse Hunniford, 2021. Image Courtesy Dark Mofo, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia.[/caption] Wondering what else might be in store? Previous years' lineups have seen a fantastical combination of musical performances, performance art and large-scale installations come together. In 2019, the program featured the likes of artists Ai Weiwei and Mike Parr, American musician Sharon Van Etten and one of the world's largest glockenspiels, for instance. In 2022, patrons were treated to performances by The Kid LAROI, and the sounds of Chernobyl and Candyman — plus rainbow installations, and signature festivities such as the Nude Solstice Swim, the City of Hobart Winter Feast, Night Mass: Transcendence in the In The Hanging Garden precinct and the Reclamation Walk. Already keen to get booking? Fancy a Tasmania trip in the interim? Our Concrete Playground Trips Hobart getaway might also be of interest. [caption id="attachment_800592" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Lusy Productions[/caption] Dark Mofo 2023 will run from Thursday, June 8–Thursday, June 22 in Hobart, Tasmania. The 2023 program will be announced in autumn — check back here for further details. A Divine Comedy will play Dark Mofo from Friday, June 16–Sunday, June 18. A ticket ballot for the show is open until 12pm AEST on Friday, February 10. A Divine Comedy images: Nicole Marianna Wytyczak. Feeling inspired to book a getaway? You can now book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations all around the world.
For a month in 2026, The Phantom of the Opera will be there, on a floating stage on top of Sydney Harbour. Each year, Australia's most-stunning performance venue welcomes a big-name Opera Australia show to unleash its wonders with a spectacular backdrop. Just like in 2022, 2026's production involves the music of the night echoing over the ocean. The extremely popular Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour has repeated titles before, but there's a particular reason for Andrew Lloyd Webber's The Phantom of the Opera haunting its scenic setup again so soon. 2026 also marks the stage musical's global 40th anniversary. There's phenomenal ways to commemorate a milestone and the there's this. When it takes to Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour's picturesque waterfront digs at Mrs Macquaries Point for 2026 — across Friday, March 27–Sunday, April 26 — this run of The Phantom of the Opera will kick off a worldwide program of events planned for the year to celebrate four decades of the show. The production will also increase the huge audience numbers that've spent time with The Phantom and Christine, given that it has already been seen by 160-million-plus people in 205 cities across 58 territories across its lifespan so far. Simon Phillips, who recently helped bring Round the Twist from the screen to the stage, initially directed the 2022 Handa season — and is back for 2026, too. Also a highlight: the eye-catching production design that includes a giant chandelier. "We're honoured to be playing such a prominent role in the 40th-anniversary global celebrations for this iconic musical, in the same year that OA is marking its own significant milestone with its 70th anniversary," said Opera Australia Acting CEO Simon Militano. "Our spectacular staging of The Phantom of the Opera, with its magical setting on Sydney Harbour, and the sweeping gothic romance and unforgettable music, all combines to create a fantastic showcase of OA's artistic excellence, and an event not to be missed." As always, included in the new The Phantom of the Opera Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour experience is not just the show on the overwater stage, but also fireworks each evening, dazzling Sydney skyline views and hitting up pop-up dining spots that are constructed onsite each year. The Phantom of the Opera at Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour will run from Friday, March 27–Sunday, April 26, 2026 — with tickets via Opera Australia subscription packages available from Tuesday, August 5, 2025; single-performance presales on offer from Tuesday, August 26, 2025; and general tickets available from Tuesday, September 2, 2026. Images: Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour's 2022 production of The Phantom of the Opera © Prudence Upton / Hamilton Lund.
When the end of the week rolls around it's always worth a tiny celebration — heck even if there are 52 of them, you made it through another one! It's easy to fall back on going to the pub around the corner, or the closest bar to your office, but isn't it about time you did something a little different, and even a bit special? We've done the leg work for you and found seven great bars that will shake you a sublime cocktail, and add in something a little special — be it a rooftop, a tasty pop-up, great DJs, Instagram-worthy interiors or stunning views (or all of the above). Round up your mates and pick one of these from a hat — we can guarantee they will take your Friday night drinks to another level of decadence, deliciousness and double taps. Whether you've hit your targets at work, or been kicking goals at the gym, you deserve to treat yourself for the small wins and milestones. The world's finest French vodka, Grey Goose, celebrates its versatility and commitment to quality ingredients as it allows bartenders to create incredible cocktails that upgrade any summer occasion — starting with those Friday night drinks. Here's where we think you should go — and what you should order as your first, premium cocktail of the night.
Sydneysiders have spent two months in lockdown now — and if you've been putting all that extra time at home to good use by sprucing up the house and doing odd jobs, you're definitely not alone. Home renovation proved popular during 2020's lockdown, too. Obviously, it's hard to avoid finally painting that wall, putting up that shelf, making over your garden or fixing all the things around the place that you've been pushing back for far too long when you're spending all day (and every day) at home. Naturally, that means that Bunnings Warehouse hasn't been lacking in customers during this stay-at-home stint. But if you're eager to pick up DIY supplies during the rest of Sydney's lockdown — so, until the end of September — you'll need to stick with online orders. Due to changes in the city's restrictions, the hardware retailer has temporarily shut down all of its stores in Greater Sydney, other than to trade customers. Under new rules that came into effect at 12.01am today, Monday, August 23, more businesses in places considered Local Government Areas of concern by the New South Wales Government are required to move to click-and-collect shopping — including garden centres, plant nurseries, office supplies, hardware and building supplies, rural supplies and pet supplies. That includes Bunnings, but the chain is going one step further and applying the rule citywide. "With the new restrictions on retail spanning a large part of Sydney, Bunnings has made the decision to temporarily close all its stores across Greater Sydney to the general public," said Bunnings Manager Director Mike Schneider. "This is in support of the government and for the safety and security of team members, customers and the community. We know from experience that applying a consistent approach across a metropolitan area is easier for our team to manage and helps reduce travel by residents between LGAs." Last year, the hardware retailer implemented a drive-and-collect service, so that's one option for picking up your hardware goods. DIY enthusiasts just need to complete their purchase online, wait for notification that their order is ready, and select their preferred pickup date and time. Then, when you drive to the store, you'll park in a designated drive and collect bay, and text or call the store to let them know you've arrived. All you need to do next is wait for a staff member to bring out your goods and put them in your car boot. Sadly, drive-and-collect doesn't apply to Bunnings' sausage sizzles, so they're off the cards in Greater Sydney for now. And if you'd prefer not to leave the house at all, you can also use the chain's click-and-deliver service. For further information about Bunnings' drive-and-collect service — or to place an order — visit the chain's website.
The gin-making superstars at Four Pillars are at it again, this month unveiling their first new creation to hit shelves since 2016. The latest addition to the Yarra Valley distillery's much-lauded barrel-aged program is the Sherry Cask Gin, which has just spent over a year in former sherry barrels, to lend a rich, intense character to the final drop. It's rounded out with notes of crushed coriander, pine needles and star anise, and infused with a small amount of Amontillado sherry to give some length and sweetness. According to the experts who made it, this one works well neat, or with sherry and orange bitters in a classic Tuxedo cocktail. Also launching this month is the 2018 edition of Four Pillars' Chardonnay Barrel Gin, which used to go by the name of Barrel-Aged Gin. This time around, the spirit's enjoyed a full 12 months in chardonnay barrels, giving characters of ginger and spice, and an oak-driven sweetness. The Four Pillars team is recommending this one over ice, or with a sprig of rosemary and a drop of honey. Both gins are available online or at selected independent retailers.
Ready to hit the open road? If you're looking to add a dose of wacky charm to your next road trip, follow the lead of our readers who've shared some excellent suggestions for offbeat attractions that'll have you chuckling all the way to your destination. From oversized critters to weird sculptures, here's our guide to the lame (but legendary) stops you won't want to miss — as recommended by you — as well as the nearest The Bottle-O so you can stock up on bevs for a winner of a weekend. [caption id="attachment_697951" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Wikimedia Commons[/caption] The Big Merino, Goulburn NSW No surprise, one of Australia's best famed big things is first on our list: the Big Merino in Goulburn, NSW. This colossal concrete ram stands tall and proud, paying homage to Australia's wool industry and is a favourite for our reader Anita: "It's a baa-rilliant photo op you need for your Insta feed." If you're on a road trip from Sydney to Canberra over the long weekend, you've got no excuses not to pull over for a quick photo opp with this absolute unit. And before you park up at your accommodation in Canberra, swing by The Bottle-O to grab some tinnies and snacks to celebrate your arrival. Closest The Bottle-O: Mitchell [caption id="attachment_944023" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Australia Rock, David Burke[/caption] Australia Rock, Narooma NSW Are you planning a coastal road trip in NSW for an upcoming long weekend? Head to the coastal town of Narooma and you'll come across the iconic Australia Rock, a natural formation that looks a lot like the outline of this fair country. "Australia Rock in Narooma is an excellent road trip attraction," says reader Ned. "There's also loads of seals or seal lions on the rocks below. Perfect spot to stretch your legs when driving down to Bermagui, where I'll be heading this long weekend!" Stop in at The Bottle-O on the way down so you have ice cold brews to enjoy with your epic coastal views. Closest The Bottle-O: Ulladulla [caption id="attachment_944024" align="alignnone" width="1920"] SapiTerbang via Canva[/caption] Jacob's Ladder, Ben Lomond National Park TAS Feeling brave? Love a driving challenge? How about a seriously steep zig-zagging road that makes a dramatic ascent to a plateau? Make your way to Jacob's Ladder in Ben Lomond National Park for some serious adrenaline-pumping action. "Jacob's Ladder is iconic", says reader Greg. "It's well worth the trip from Launceston." Grab a few cold ones from The Bottle-O in Launceston to celebrate your driving victory after you return safely to your accommodation. Cheers to that. Closest The Bottle-O: Launceston Penguin, TAS No, we're not talking about the cute and cuddly kind – we're talking about the town of Penguin in Tasmania. Tassie has a fun habit of naming its towns and villages ridiculous names — we're looking at you Nowhere Else, Break-Me-Neck Hill, Doo Town, etc. But Penguin really takes the biscuit. "We always make a pit stop in Penguin to snap a pic with the giant penguin statue, and if it's late in the day, you could spot some local fairy penguins making their way to the water," says Penguin-town enthusiast and reader Laura. Grab a meat pie from the local bakery and enjoy a picnic by the beach with some beverages from The Bottle-O in town. Closest The Bottle-O: Penguin [caption id="attachment_944026" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Big Pineapple, Alpha via Flickr[/caption] The Big Pineapple, Woombye QLD Planning an escape to Noosa Heads or up to Rainbow Beach for the long weekend? Hop on the Bruce Highway and make a stop at the endearingly retro Big Pineapple in Woombye, not far from Nambour. This fruity landmark is a true Aussie icon, and our readers reckon it's worth the detour for the cheesy photo op alone. "Of the Big Things in Oz, it's definitely my top choice for a road trip detour," says reader Aidan. There's even a heritage-listed Pineapple Train through the sugar cane there, which might just be the most Queensland thing in existence. Closest The Bottle-O: Maroochydore [caption id="attachment_944027" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Pete Jones via Flickr[/caption] Tin Horse Highway, Kulin WA If the outback is calling you this long weekend, you'd be hard-pressed to find a more lame (with all due respect) but still legendary road trip detour than the Tin Horse Highway in Kulin, WA. This stretch of road is lined with homemade tin horses, each more ridiculous than the last. "The tin horses get more amazing the further your drive because the locals have been one-upping each other for decades," says reader Scott. "There's a slide made of tin horses, a horse riding a horse, and so much more." What started as a lark is now a fully-fledged competition with prize money, bragging rights and more tin horses. Now there are over 60 horses out there to discover. Take in a stretch, then you can debate your favourites when you pitch up at your campsite over a cold one from The Bottle-O. Closest The Bottle-O: Byford [caption id="attachment_944028" align="alignnone" width="1920"] David Burke[/caption] The Giant Koala, Dadswell's Bridge VIC If you're travelling around The Grampians for the long weekend, you'd be doing yourself a disservice if you didn't head south to Dadswell's Bridge and pay your respects to the Giant Koala. Towering over the surrounding countryside, this oversized marsupial is a legendary and ever so slightly cursed sight for any road tripper. "Nothing can prepare for looking into those wild red eyes," says reader Kate. "it reaches into your soul. Best Big Thing. No contest". Recover from the soul-piercing eyes as you relax as the sun sets over the mountains at your campsite with a much-needed bev from The Bottle-O. Closest The Bottle-O: Sebastopol [caption id="attachment_944029" align="alignnone" width="1920"] GrainCorp Silos at Sheep Hills, Artist Adnate, Credit Aaron Powell[/caption] Silo Art Trail, VIC We received a lot of recommendations for Silo Art, from the cockatoo-clad silo on Kangaroo Island to Newdegate in WA. But one state copped more recommendations than any other and that is Victoria. Whichever direction you head from Melbourne, you'll have plenty of silos to add to your roadside attraction list. "I love the Silo Art Movement. I've knocked off ten around Melbs and I'll be heading further into regional VIC to check off a few more this long weekend," says reader Michelle. And don't forget to pick up some drinks at The Bottle-O to enjoy while admiring your snaps when you reach your accommodation. Closest The Bottle-O: Doreen Wherever the road leads you on your weekend adventuring, find your nearest The Bottle-O and stock up on some standout bevs. Ready to start planning? Head to the website. Top image: David Burke
If there is one thing we can learn from the social network juggernaut that was Kony2012, it is that the pervasive power of Facebook provides internet activists or hacktivists with a unique capacity to transform public consciousness on a truly global scale. As such, a number of environmental activists are not only taking to the streets but taking to Facebook in an attempt to raise awareness about the pressing environmental issues that face society today. Here are six innovative groups and apps that have taken the fight for a greener future into the world of Facebook. Tree-Nation Tree-Nation is one of numerous Facebook groups committed to fighting deforestation and desertification through replanting trees. For every ten people who join the Tree-Nation Facebook page, the organisation will plant one tree. Even more ambitiously, Facebook group iChapter has promised to plant one tree for every new member, with the aim to eventually plant a total of 100,000 trees. For the more Facebook savvy of you, the Earthkeepers have created an app that allows users to plant a virtual tree, tend to it and share it with friends, with every fully matured virtual tree resulting in Earthkeepers planting a tree in the real world. Make Me Sustainable Make Me Sustainable allows users to measure their impact on the environment by tracking energy consumption and carbon footprint, allowing you to see how an action as simple as changing a light bulb can reduce your environmental impact. While there is a great range of software available for individuals and businesses that help in reducing your environmental footprint, Make Me Sustainable is unique as it provides a forum for sharing information and strategies for sustainable living and a virtual space to network with other environmentally-minded individuals on a national and even international scale. A Climate for Change Not simply a Facebook application, A Climate for Change is in fact a whole new social network built around the goal of tackling the issue of climate change. Users create profiles where they share anything and everything they have to say about global warming from rants about the Carbon Tax to interesting articles and videos about the effects of our warming planet. The We Campaign As the name suggests, The We Campaign hopes to shift our focus from what 'I' can do to make a difference but what 'we' as a global community, connected through our shared desires and the power of Facebook, can do together to protect and preserve the environment. The We Campaign app awards points to users for taking certain environmental actions, with donors giving $1 to fight global warming for every 10 points earnt. Trees Have Rights Too In the age of social networking environmental activists no longer have to chain themselves to giant oaks in order to fight for their right to exist. Trees Have Rights Too not only functions as an awareness group, describing how every Christmas season 6 million trees are killed and then disposed of, but also as a particularly vocal advocacy group for the rights of trees everywhere. The group is currently aiming to petition the United Nations to create a Bill of Planetary Rights that places guidelines and regulations on government deforestation. (Lil) Green Patch The now defunct Facebook app, (Lil) Green Patch was once the most used application on Facebook and well-and-truly silenced the doubters who believed that social media couldn't be used to create meaningful environmental change. The app allowed users to tend to a virtual garden, adding little munchkin-like people, plants and flowers and in the process users would raise money for "Nature Conservancy" to save the rainforest. According to one count (Lil) Green Patch raised more than $200,000 for Nature Conservancy over two years, which represented the conservation of rainforests across the globe with an area of 70 million square feet of Costa Rican saved in the first six months alone. (Lil) Green Patch is now the benchmark for every new environmentally-minded Facebook app.
Sydney's cookie titans have done it again. ButterBoy conquered Manly, Chatswood, Broadway and Brookvale with flagship stores, spread their oven-baked goodness across the city with stockist selections, dished out free mystery boxes and even pollinated Melbourne with a pop-up earlier this year. Now they're expanding their offering again for a limited time only. This time, Pitt Street is playing the lucky host, with a pop-up store in Westfield Pitt Street that's open now until Sunday, October 19. The pop-up will be slinging the usual mix of cookie flavours, sold individually or in boxes of six, alongside the more bite-sized collections of serves inside cookie tins. For refreshments, an evolution of cookies' natural pairing, cookie milk. This isn't your typical ice-cold glass of the good stuff, this is 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. As well as the usual selection of flavours, the pop-up will also debut two exclusive flavours — as is tradition for ButterBoy, where every store has a signature you can't find elsewhere. This time, the exclusive flavours are Matcha & White Chocolate, perfectly paired with your matcha run for the day, and Blueberry & Lemon for those who like something a little fruitier. ButterBoy can be found on Level 2 of Westfield Pitt Street, open 9.30-7am Monday to Wednesday, 9.30am-9pm Thursday, 9.30am-7pm Friday and Saturday and 10am-7pm on Sunday. Find ButterBoy on Instagram for more information.
Unless you're lucky enough to live close by, Watsons Bay isn't a stumble-there-by-accident kind of place. You've either made the journey by ferry, bus or car, or you powered here on two legs. However, it's worth the effort. This picturesque suburb is home to harbour beaches, legendary fish and chip shops, wedding venues and a family-friendly park. It's also where you'll find the one-kilometre South Head Heritage Trail, which snakes through national parkland and overlooks the ocean and city. Together with Adidas, we've picked out seven rewarding pit stops to enjoy next time you tackle the South Head Heritage Trail, starting and finishing at Robertson Park. Take a look, then launch the map below to plan your own adventure. [caption id="attachment_805547" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] GREEN POINT RESERVE From Robertson Park, stroll along Marine Parade looking out to the city beyond. Follow the path around to Camp Cove and you'll soon find Green Point Reserve. Looking out over Sydney Harbour's glistening blue waters, this small patch of grass is the perfect place to stretch your limbs and take in the view. Take a moment to snap a few photos and relax on the grass as you gaze across the water. In your swimmers? There are secluded swimming spots here if you prefer to take a dip away from the crowded beaches. [caption id="attachment_805549" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] CAMP COVE Barely a stone's throw away from Green Point Reserve is the harbour-facing Camp Cove Beach. This strip of golden sand is well known for its calm waters and you'll sometimes spot divers entering the water near the kiosk. Nab a spot by the shore for quick access in and out of the water, or set up a brolly for a picnic before tackling the rest of the walk. Rich in history, Camp Cove is believed to be an important fishing location for the Gadigal people before invasion. [caption id="attachment_805662" align="alignnone" width="1920"] John Yurasek/DPIE[/caption] HISTORICAL CANON After you've brushed off the sand from your swim, follow the trail up the stairs for just 100 metres. Here you'll find a canon. Originally placed to protect the headland from potential attacks, this historic monument has become somewhat of a photo op location for tourists. Take a rest on the sandstone and appreciate the magnificent backdrop. [caption id="attachment_805698" align="alignnone" width="1920"] John Yurasek/DPIE[/caption] LADY BAY BEACH Continue along the path and you'll soon find Lady Bay Beach, also know as Lady Jane Beach. This small, sheltered beach is a popular nudist spot for (mostly male) locals and tourists. If you didn't pack swimmers and you are open to a nudie swim, take the opportunity to plunge right in. While swimwear is accepted here, it's far from the norm. Be respectful and avoid taking photos. And, as always, slip, slop and slap. [caption id="attachment_805550" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] HORNBY KEEPER'S COTTAGE Next stop on the trail is Hornby Lighthouse — the third lighthouse to be built in NSW in 1858 — and the nearby Hornby Keeper's Cottage. Originally built for the lighthouse keeper, of course, this sandstone cottage is a key milestone in the walk. From here you can spend time whale watching in winter, or spotting yachts in the harbour in summer. Swot up on your local history, or use the opportunity to lay down and enjoy South Head's views. From here, turn back around and retrace your steps to Camp Cove. [caption id="attachment_805675" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Pexels; Min An[/caption] CAMP COVE KIOSK By the time you've made your way back to the beach, you're sure to have worked up an appetite. For a quick refreshment, head to Camp Cove Kiosk for an ice cream, juice or smoothie. Or, if you're feeling a bit more peckish, opt for one of its sandwiches (tuna, brisket, egg and chicken are usually on offer). Breakfast options include avocado and feta on sourdough and healthy brekkie bowls. Take your snacks to the sand as you refuel by the gentle waves. [caption id="attachment_805556" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Flickr; Marc Dalmulder[/caption] THE GAP After your feed, take the most direct route along Cliff Street for 650 metres to reach The Gap. The stunning ocean cliff has unique rock platforms and the pounding ocean below. Before colonisation, the area was home to the Birrabirragal people. Today it's a lookout point, but it also has a history of being a place where people have taken their own lives. Local man Don 'Angel of The Gap' Richie was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia for his prevention of more than 160 deaths at The Gap. Take a moment to remember Don and those who've walked here before us. Then, head back down the steps to Robertson Park to mark the end of your run or walk. Want to extend your day further? Enjoy an afternoon drink at Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel. In need of a new pair of runners? Take a look at the new Adidas Ultraboost 21 runners here. Launch the map below to start plotting your own running adventure in and around Sydney. Top image: Andrew Gregory; Destination NSW
Sydney Harbour's Pullman Quay Grand has opened a new bar — and it looks tremendously luxe. Located within the Circular Quay hotel, Hacienda is a brand new 'vista bar', taking inspiration from Cuba's grandiose, plantation-style architecture and the vintage hotels of 1950's Miami. Applejack Hospitality — whose venues include Bondi Hardware, The Butler and Della Hyde — have teamed up with AccorHotels to pull off this stylish throw-back "botanical oasis" of a space. And it's stunning. The harbourside space is filled with luxurious, pastel lounge furniture, brass details and lush roof greenery, all surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows which showcase panoramic views of the city, the bridge and Sydney Harbour. Plus, they can all open to create a terrace-like feel. The drink menus mimics the venue design by using Cuban flavours, slinging cocktails which include classic ingredients like banana, guava and custard apple. The Tropical Sour – banana-infused Encanto pisco, Tío Pepe sherry, lime and honey — sounds especially tasty, as is the Old Smoked Presidente: a concoction of aged rum, orange curacao, dry vermouth, house-spiced raspberry syrup and Angostura bitters. The bar also has an impressive stock of rum and American whiskey for those looking for something neat. The food offering, curated by Executive Chef Stefan Brademann, will complement the drinks and have a Cuban-American flare. Fusion dishes like the yuka fries, buttermilk fried chicken and a pork neck mojo will sit on the menu alongside a Cubano-Reuben hybrid and burgers galore. The menu will be balanced between bar snacks and more substantial dishes to accommodate for anything from nibbling patrons to hangry ones. This little slice of Cuban culture may play to cliches but we're not fussed — especially considering the iconic views that come with it.
Japan is having a moment right now, both as a holiday destination and as a trending cuisine, with all sorts of Japanese venues appearing all over Sydney. One of the most colourful and dynamic among this new wave of arrivals is Miji Bar and Grill — a neon-lit izakaya that's bringing a taste of Tokyo's laneway culture to the North Sydney CBD. If you're one of the lucky travellers who's given Japan a visit but are still yearning for the streets of Shibuya or Shinjuku, you'll feel right at home here. Miji's interior is fully decked with imported Japanese signage, neon lights and even a replica of Shinjuku's famous red archway. Match that with concrete tables, floor-to-ceiling windows and the fact that you're on the first floor of a North Sydney office building, and it feels like a unique combination of two different worlds. The tastes are all Tokyo, though. Chef Jacob Lee has Michelin-starred experience in kitchens the world over, and it shows with an air of inventiveness across the menu. Lunch diners can enjoy set menus, donburi bowls and a mix of cooked and raw bar snacks, but dinner is all about the humble skewer. These skewers are the real deal and a must-try on your first visit. There are six variants to choose from, but the chicken thigh and enoki wagyu roll are our picks of the lot. That's just part of the picture, though, as the dinner menu also treads in the realm of small plates (like the insanely moreish deep-fried whitebait with shichimi spice mix and honey sour cream), hotpots and share plates, like gloriously grilled king prawns or rainbow trout with yuzu butter sauce and salmon roe. When it comes to drinks, one of Miji's specialties is a help-yourself drinks service that's practically unheard of in Sydney: a self-serve sake bar. Just grab a pre-paid membership card to tap, pay and pour. Alternatively, bartenders behind the counter will happily take your order. A creative cocktail menu is especially alluring, with in-house versions of slippers, daiquiris, gimlets and more. Try the Doraemon to sip apple sake and vodka mixed with blue curaçao, coconut and marshmallow. Or, dive into the many pages of highballs, shochu, umeshu, beer, wine, sake, spirits and non-alcoholic options.
Drinking a few brews and accidentally getting beer splashed on your shoes is a problem we've all experienced, particularly if you've indulged in a few steins at Oktoberfest. When people amass for a big, boozy shindig, steins start dripping and so does your footwear — and, as often happens when folks enjoy a few too many cold beverages, a stray drop of beer or several isn't the only unpleasantness threatening your kicks. Enter Adidas' new Originals München 'Oktoberfest' sneakers, aka the brand's solution to errant alcohol, its after-effects and its potential for stained shoes during the annual celebration. Made in Germany and available for a limited time from retailer 43einhalb, they're designed to withstand brews and vomit thanks to "durable puke and beer repellent" coating over their leather surface. Just how that works hasn't been revealed, but we're guessing you still shouldn't try pouring a whole pint over them. Selling for almost AU$300 (€199.95), the shoes also cater for the less messy parts of Oktoberfest, because the yearly booze fest is all in the name of fun. Accordingly, they're decked out with embroidery designed to match your lederhosen, have "prost" (aka cheers in German) stitched into the side, and come with a custom beer mug. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qkMQyAEpyuk Via Munchies. Images:43einhalb/Adidas.
Sydney hospitality giant Merivale has unveiled the first phase of its 'Ivy 2.0' project, which will see four new venues open in the Sydney CBD this year. First up is Little Felix: a 60-seat cocktail bar and little sister to Ash Street's hatted French bistro Felix on George Street. The space itself — by lauded design firm Acme and stylist Amanda Talbot — is opulent and designed to transport guests back to 1920s Paris — or at least to the set of Midnight in Paris. Think Zelda and F Scott Fitzgerald parties at their grandest. In terms of drinks, Group Bar Manager Sam Egerton has created a succinct cocktail list featuring eight old-world classics made with premium French ingredients and liqueurs. Instead of a straightforward French 75 (gin, citrus and champagne), Little Felix serves up the Paris Meridian, which uses Chandon blanc de blancs and Farigoule de Forcalquier (a French thyme liqueur). Then there's the Le Ricain (the bar's take on a Sidecar), made with Hennessy VS, Cointreau and Armagnac. The wine list is impressive in its own right, too, curated by Merivale's Master Sommelier Franck Moreau and Head Sommelier Jean-Charles Mahe. Expect by-the-glass wines and champagnes to be poured from magnums — 1.5-litre bottles — and a custom-built wine fridge behind the bar. Guests can also order back vintages from the (impressively large) wine list next door at Felix. To eat, Head Chef Nathan Johnson has created a dedicated menu of simple French dishes for Little Felix, with the focus on charcuterie, cheese and tartines (temptingly spread out on the bar). Order a plate of jambon and melon, creamy duck liver parfait or one of the nine different cheeses. Also joining the group's Ivy Precinct this year is a casual Middle Eastern eatery by ex-Rockpool Chef Simon Zalloua, a sister to Bondi's Italian restaurant Totti's and a new Mexican joint. The precinct is already home to Bar Topa, Felix, Palings, Ash St Cellar, The Royal George and Ivy Pool Club, Den and Lounge. The openings coincide with the big Light Rail reveal and the soon-to-launch George Street pedestrian zone that comes along with it, as well as City of Sydney's newly approved late-night trading plan. This phase of Merivale's 'Ivy 2.0' project is the first step toward entirely redeveloping the site, but that won't come into play for many years to come. We'll keep you in the loop as we learn more about all of the new Merivale happenings. Images: Nikki To.
When an Australian actor makes it big, it can feel as if there's more than one of them. Joel Edgerton, who has been on local screens for almost three decades and made the leap to Hollywood with the Australian-shot Star Wars: Episode II — Attack of the Clones, is such a talent. He's usually everywhere and in almost everything (such as The Stranger, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Thirteen Lives, Master Gardener, I'm a Virgo, The Boys in the Boat and Bluey in just the past two years), and viewers would follow him anywhere. Dark Matter wasn't written to capitalise upon that idea. Rather, it hails from the page of Blake Crouch's 2016 novel, with the author also creating the new nine-part Apple TV+ sci-fi series that it's based on. But, streaming from Wednesday, May 8, 2024, the show's lead casting leans into the notion that you can never have too much Edgerton by multiplying him in the multiverse. For the characters in Dark Matter, however, the fact that there's more than a single Jason Dessen causes considerable issues. The series' protagonist is a former experimental physics genius-turned-professor in Chicago who's teaching disinterested students about Schrödinger's cat. He's married to artist-turned-gallerist Daniela (Jennifer Connelly, Bad Behaviour), a father to teenager Charlie (Oakes Fegley, The Fabelmans) and the best friend of award-winning college pal Ryan Holder (Jimmi Simpson, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia). And, he's been happy living the quiet family life, although pangs of envy quietly arise when he's celebrating Ryan's prestigious new accolade. Then, when another Jason pops up to pull off a kidnapping and doppelgänger plot, he's soon navigating a cross between Sliding Doors and Everything Everywhere All At Once. Everything is a multiverse tale of late; a mere few examples span superhero films and television shows Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, the Spider-Verse movies, Loki and The Flash; TV gems Fringe and Russian Doll; and the interdimensional animated chaos of Rick and Morty. Dark Matter is also a soul-searching "what if?" drama, exploring the human need to wonder what might've been if just one choice — sometimes big, sometimes small — had veered in a different direction. While a box is pivotal mode of transport like this is Doctor Who, as are all manner of worlds to visit, this is high-concept sci-fi at its most grounded. Neither version of Jason wants to hop through parallel worlds in the name of adventure or exploration — they're simply chasing their idea of everyday perfection. The first Jason chose Daniela and Charlie over devoting his existence to his career, round-the-clock work and only seeing the inside of a lab. Drugging and abducting him to reveal what could've eventuated if he didn't chart that path, the second Jason slides into his life to trade places. The everyman Jason unwillingly gets transported to a plane of reality where he's a famous billionaire — as well as the recipient of prizes and kudos, and also the creator of the technology that's allowing tumbling through the multiverse to happen — while the interloper Jason assumes his spot as a husband and dad. Dark Matter ties into the proverb "the grass is always greener", too, as both Jasons face the ups and downs of the road not taken, mostly for worse not better. For Jason One, if only verdant pastures were all that changed as he urgently attempts to return to his Daniela. With Jason Two's psychiatrist partner and colleague Amanda (Alice Braga, A Murder at the End of the World) for company, anything can await behind the infinite expanse of doors in a dimly light corridor that literalises the quantum state of superposition. Again, though, journeying to dystopias and paradises, and through disasters and futuristic havens while they're at it, isn't the point, even if each of the above makes an appearance. If you've ever felt as if you've been wading through copies of the life that you're meant to have, with nothing completely falling into place as it should, that's Jason One's experience as minor details morph from world to world. Edgerton's job, fittingly, contains multitudes. As the initial iteration of Jason, he plays thoughtful, considerate, dedicated to his loved ones and desperate to find his way back to them — all while tussling with the show's high-tech premise, often while stranded within that endless hallway. As Jason Two, he's a calculating imposter endeavouring not to get caught in the dream reality that he's ruthlessly stolen, but also arrogant in his confidence that he's pulled off his existential heist. A click on the soundtrack signals Dark Matter's jump between Jasons, but it needn't: Edgerton conveys their differences alongside their similarities like an artist painting the same portrait in dissimilar styles, and does so in one of the best performances of his career. Grappling with regrets, possibilities, the haunting knowledge that other futures are always possible and the distress of grasping that you mightn't have appreciated what you had until it was gone, Edgerton isn't the only actor excelling at doing double duty. For Connelly, in a show that spirits someone else off on a quest as another of her on-screen alter egos once was nearly four decades back in Labyrinth — a series where frosty climes and trains also play a part, bringing her last small-screen role on Snowpiercer to mind — shifts in body language say everything. And, they aren't the only cast members serving up layered performances. Braga, Fegley and Simpson are no slouches; in smaller but no less pivotal roles, neither are Dayo Okeniyi (Hypnotic) and Amanda Brugel (Parish). With Wayward Pines and Good Behaviour, Crouch's work has ventured from the page to episodes before — and with his involvement. His latest series has echoes within Apple TV+'s slate, too, because the platform's love of science fiction, twists and mysteries just keeps growing, including with Constellation already in 2024, Silo in 2023 and Severance in 2022. There might only be a lone idyllic realm for Jasons in Dark Matter, but that isn't the case for the streaming service's viewers. An absorbing and addictive trip that's also firmly anchored in relatable yearnings and musings, this Edgerton-led series is one to enthusiastically dive into. Check out the trailer for Dark Matter below: Dark Matter streams via Apple TV+ from Wednesday, May 8, 2024.
If you're just a hunk, a hunk of burning love for the one and only Elvis Presley, and you live in Australia, you've been having quite the few years. A massive exhibition dedicated to the king of rock 'n' roll came our way, Baz Luhrmann's AACTA-winning and Oscar-nominated biopic Elvis wowed fans, and Sofia Coppola's Priscilla is the headed to the big screen soon. Also on offer: a new Presley-focused stage musical that debuted in Sydney in August, is now playing Melbourne's Athenaeum Theatre, and has just locked in its 2024 dates and stops. Called Elvis: A Musical Revolution, this production features more than 40 of the singer's hits, because there's just that many songs to include. All of the expected favourites are worked into the biographical musical, which means everything from 'Jailhouse Rock', 'Hound Dog', 'That's All Right' and 'All Shook Up' through to 'Suspicious Minds', 'Heartbreak Hotel', 'Burning Love' and 'Blue Suede Shoes'. 'Good Rockin' Tonight', 'Earth Angel', 'Don't Be Cruel' and 'Are You Lonesome' get a whirl as well, as do 'Blue Moon of Kentucky', 'See See Rider', 'Can't Help Falling in Love' and 'A Little Less Conversation'. That's what the show's audience hears. As for what everyone sees — what makes the musical one for the money, naturally — the production's story tells Elvis' tale from his childhood in Tupelo, Mississippi through to his triumphant '68 Comeback Special. If you've seen the aforementioned Elvis, none of it will be new news, but Elvis: A Musical Revolution works its hip-swinging magic anyway. Sydney will get a return date with the musical from February 2024, with Elvis set to be in the building at the State Theatre again. After that, it's Her Majesty's Theatre's turn in Adelaide from April, Crown Theatre in Perth's time in the spotlight from May and HOTA, Home of the Arts on the Gold Coast's from June. Starring Rob Mallett (House Husbands, Singin' in the Rain), Elvis: A Musical Revolution hails from David Venn Enterprises, which has also been behind Cruel Intentions: The '90s Musical, The Wedding Singer and Bring It On: The Musical — and arrives via a partnership with Authentic Brands Group, the owner of Elvis Presley Enterprises. Also behind the scenes, the musical's book comes courtesy of David Abbinanti and Sean Cercone — who have Saturday Night Fever: The Musical and Ghost: The Musical on their resumes — with Abbinanti also composing the orchestrations, arrangements, and additional musical and lyrics. "We couldn't be happier about the response from audiences, and look forward to celebrating the life and music of Elvis Presley with even more Elvis fans and theatre lovers across the country," said producer David Venn. "It's a testament to our cast and creative team, as well as the enduring legacy of The King." ELVIS: A MUSICAL REVOLUTION 2024 AUSTRALIAN DATES: Until Sunday, December 24, 2023 — Athenaeum Theatre, Melbourne From February 2024 — State Theatre, Sydney From April 2024 — Her Majesty's Theatre, Adelaide From May 2024 — Crown Theatre, Perth From June 2024 — HOTA, Home of the Arts, the Gold Coast Elvis: A Musical Revolution is currently playing Melbourne, and will keep touring Australia until at least mid-2024. Head to the show's website for further details, tickets for Melbourne and to join the ticket waitlist elsewhere. Images: Ken Leanfore / Daniel Boud.
A beloved Redfern Street hideout for half a decade, Ron's Upstairs turned its fairy lights off for the last time in May 2022. Ron's called the space home for five years. When one door closes, however, another opens, and in place of Ron's is Fontana, an Italian diner that has revitalised the space above Itacate. The vibrant new venue arrived just two months after the closure of Ron's, bringing the warm hospitality of its predecessors. Gone are the playful plastic vines and colourful wallpaper, while the red carpet and parquetry flooring from Ron's remains. New leather-clad booths are complimented by warm mahogany tones and just the right level of mood lighting. And, most importantly, the charm and homeliness of the space's previous occupant are still here in spades. Fontana is the latest opening from Daniel Johnston, Harry Levy and Ivery Wawn, who have all worked together across Don Peppino's, Wilmer and Alfios. In the few years since Don Peppino's has closed, the trio were busy. Johnston and Wawn honed their craft at Alberto's and Cafe Paci respectively. Levy opened Porcine above P&V Paddington with Nick Hill and Matt Fitzgerald. While Fontana's menu is ever-changing, expect to choose from a selection of share plates, a few choice pasta dishes and a couple of mains. Possible highlights include prosciutto e pesca, the ricotta della casa and the pasta alla norma. Another win comes in the form of Fontana's delicately flavoured pappardelle osso buco. Accompanying food is the drinks menu that has been led by Wawn. There are a handful of classic cocktails and a range of interesting and eclectic wines showcasing organic and biodynamic farming principles, rounding out the trio of musts for a topnotch Italian diner — good wine, good pasta and good service. Appears in: The Best Italian Restaurants in Sydney for 2023
Since opening its doors in 2015, Flour Drum has established itself as a Newtown hub for great food and exceptional service. Victor Li, Christopher Heaps and Chef John Ageletos have focused their different restaurant skills to create a space that embodies what a neighbourhood cafe should be. Flour Drum doesn't attribute dishes to just one cuisine. Instead, fare showcases flavours from around the world, especially the Greek, Chinese, and New Zealand cuisines the owners grew up with. "Being my mother's son, I always cook to make everyone happy," says Ageletos on the source of his inspiration. He also recalls how his mother would whip up fusion dishes, like Indian curry fried rice that the three still make during Christmas. Surrounded by secondhand stores and street murals, Flour Drum stands apart from other eateries with a charming vintage decor and personable staff. From the front room — which is perfect for afternoon lamingtons — to a dining room for long lunches on weekends, its imaginative vision shines through via walls filled with quotes, art displays and a large Outback mural among other ornaments. There's also a garden area where Heaps has pulled together garden tables, an antique Buddha head, a collage of paintings and other treasures hidden by foliage. For breakfast, Flour Drum goes beyond the realm of typical toasties and morning pastries. Its South American-esque corn fritters topped with a poached egg, avocado, tomato jam and feta balances the sweet of the fritters with the spicy kick of the tomato jam. The must-try dish is the fluffy banoffee pancakes coated in dulce de leche and Anzac biscuit crumbles with a grilled banana and mountains of whipped cream. Flour Drum's fusion-focused menu continues through to lunch. Barbecue duck ravioli dumplings accompanied by egg noodles and a sweet shiitake broth craftily combines Asian flavours with the textures of Italian pasta. If you want a heartier meal, the eight-hour braised lamb shank ragu with house-made pappardelle is melt-in-your-mouth delicious. And, if you beat the eager crowds, indulge in the best-selling beef rendang. Whatever you eat, don't leave without a slice (or more) of the ever-changing assortment of lamingtons. Dive into the Black Forest covered in coconut shreds or go for something citrus — such as the gluten-free ricotta, raspberry and white chocolate cake. And trust me when I say you'll probably walk out with one of Flour Drum's massive cookies in hand, too. Flour Drum dances to its own beat and provides an interesting dining experience each time you visit. It'll soon become an all-day eatery, with dinner services starting in August featuring dishes like duck ragu and baked bombe alaska. Images: Jenna Manto
Not all that long ago, the idea of getting cosy on your couch, clicking a few buttons, and having thousands of films and television shows at your fingertips seemed like something out of science fiction. Now, it's just an ordinary night — whether you're virtually gathering the gang to text along, cuddling up to your significant other or shutting the world out for some much needed me-time. Of course, given the wealth of options to choose from, there's nothing ordinary about making a date with your chosen streaming platform. The question isn't "should I watch something?" — it's "what on earth should I choose?". Hundreds of titles are added to Australia's online viewing services each and every month, all vying for a spot on your must-see list. And, so you don't spend 45 minutes scrolling and then being too tired to actually commit to watching anything, we're here to help. From the latest and greatest to old favourites, here are our picks for your streaming queue from January's haul of newbies. BRAND NEW STUFF YOU CAN WATCH IN FULL RIGHT NOW https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-UQamk0b0k8 ONE NIGHT IN MIAMI Pondering the conversations that might've occurred between four pivotal historical figures on one very real evening they spent in each other's company, One Night in Miami boasts the kind of talk-heavy concept that'd clearly work well on the stage. That's where it first began back in 2013 — but adapting theatre pieces for the cinema doesn't always end in success, especially when they primarily involve large swathes of dialogue exchanged in one setting. If Beale Street Could Talk Oscar-winner and Watchmen Emmy-winner Regina King doesn't make a single wrong move here, however. The actor's feature directorial debut proves a film not only of exceptional power and feeling, but of abundant texture and detail as well. It's a movie about people and ideas, including the role the former can play in both bolstering and counteracting the latter, and the Florida-set picture takes as much care with its quartet of protagonists as it does with the matters of race, politics and oppression they talk about. Given the folks involved, there's much to discuss. The film takes place on February 25, 1964, which has become immortalised in history as the night that Cassius Clay (Eli Goree, Riverdale) won his first title fight. Before and after the bout, the future Muhammad Ali hangs out with his equally important pals — activist Malcolm X (Kingsley Ben-Adir, High Fidelity), footballer Jim Brown (Aldis Hodge, The Invisible Man) and musician Sam Cooke (Leslie Odom Jr, Hamilton) — with this equally meticulous and moving certain future Oscar-nominee ficitionalising their time together. One Night in Miami is available to stream via Amazon Prime Video. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ga0iTWXCGa0 LUPIN Few actors are as charming on-screen as Omar Sy. Ever since the French talent started making a big-screen splash in films such as Micmacs and The Intouchables, he has been a delight to watch. Consequently, the Mood Indigo, X-Men: Days of Future Past and Jurassic World star couldn't be better cast in Lupin — the Paris-set mystery-thriller series inspired by Maurice Leblanc's 1907–36 novels and novellas about the fictional gentleman thief of the same name. Sy plays Assane Diop, who is first introduced as a cleaner working at the Louvre. In flashbacks to recent events and to the character's childhood, viewers learn just why he's at the famous museum, and what has inspired his life of crime as well. The son of a Senegalese immigrant (Fargass Assandé, Eye of the Storm) who once worked for the wealthy Pellegrini family, Assane has a complicated history, plus a mystery to solve, Marie Antoinette's diamond necklace to steal and vengeance to exact. Each chapter of his on-screen tale is slick, engrossing and swiftly-paced, as all heist and espionage affairs should be. Based on his engaging performance, they should probably all star Sy, too. Also influential here, though, is filmmaker Louis Leterrier. His resume has more misses than hits, spanning the first two Transporter movies, The Incredible Hulk, Clash of the Titans, Now You See Me and Grimsby, but he brings a deft touch to this series — as he did to the vastly dissimilar The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance. Lupin's first five episodes — which comprise the first of the series' two parts — are available to stream via Netflix. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9uC7_PFQgCc THE QUEEN OF BLACK MAGIC Remaking the 1981 film of the same name, Indonesian horror movie The Queen of Black Magic takes three men back to the remote orphanage they grew up in. Naturally given the setup and the genre, more than just memories await. Friends Hanif (Ario Bayu, The Bridge), Anton (Tanta Ginting, Hit & Run) and Jefri (Miller Khan, Foxtrot Six) all return to pay their respects to the man who raised them, the ailing Mr Bani (Yayu AW Unru, Brata), and they've each brought their families and spouses along — but when they arrive at the facility, there's no mistaking the eerie feeling that permeates. Hanif, his wife Nadya (Hannah Al Rashid, The Night Comes for Us) and their three children are already a little rattled after an incident during their drive. Soon, the kids are exploring the property and unearthing secrets that have long haunted their father and his pals. Just as swiftly, filmmaker Kimo Stamboel demonstrates that he isn't going to hold back on the bumps, jumps or gore, although fans of his work as part of the Mo Brothers — including Macabre, Killers and Headshot — won't be surprised by his unflinching approach. The writer/director of Satan's Slaves and Impetigore, screenwriter Joko Anwar also helps shape a picture that leans on more than a few horror tropes, but never feels like a by-the-numbers haunted house movie. And, if you'd like to compare it to the original, that's joining this new version on Shudder as well (with the current flick available now, and the initial film arriving on the platform in February). The Queen of Black Magic is available to stream via Shudder. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kqT77bdfEaA HAPPY HAPPY JOY JOY: THE REN & STIMPY STORY When August 2021 rolls around, it'll mark 30 years since a psychotic chihuahua and a kindly cat first brought their chaos to the small screen and changed the way people think about Nickelodeon's animated shows. At the time, there was simply nothing like The Ren & Stimpy Show — and that applies to its dark humour, willingness to shock and often grotesquely detailed visuals, as well as its characters, storylines and jokes. The 52-episode show also proved immensely influential. Without it, SpongeBob SquarePants probably wouldn't exist, in fact. But the history of Ren & Stimpy is filled with both highs and lows, as documentary Happy Happy Joy Joy: The Ren & Stimpy Story explores. More than just a nostalgic look back, this chronicle by first-time directors Ron Cicero and Kimo Easterwood covers the series' origins, evolution and success, as well as its behind-the-scenes struggles and eventual demise. It chats with the folks who made it happen to examine why it struck such a chord, and to also make plain the reality of making such a hit. And, it doesn't shy away from the accusations levelled at John Kricfalusi, Ren & Stimpy's creator and the voice of Ren, including not only the difficult working environment that sprang under his watch, but the allegations of sexual abuse and grooming that came to light in 2018. Indeed, the latter could fuel its documentary, but here it adds another layer to the tale of a TV show unlike anything else, and the ego that both made it happen and caused its downfall. Happy Happy Joy Joy: The Ren & Stimpy Story is available to stream via Docplay. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XByiHpUvrj0 THE HISTORY OF SWEAR WORDS Listening to Nicolas Cage utter profanity is a beautiful thing. Witnessing him on-screen always earns that description, of course. Whether he's running maniacally through the streets because his character is convinced he's a vampire, or he's flirting with subtlety while also playing identical siblings, he's a pleasure to behold — which is why Netflix's decision to task cinema's undeniable king of the unhinged with hosting The History of Swear Words is a smart moves. He opens and closes each episode, and pops up intermittently as an array of comedians and language experts offer their thoughts. He doesn't appear as often everyone watching would like, but he's the comedy series' best feature. He screams "fuck" like no one else, makes jokes about his career, and paints in front of a picture of a peach that nods to Face/Off and one of the most outlandish scenes he's ever been in, too. Without him, The History of Swear Words would've been interesting, rather than entertaining. The fact that it sticks to a very brief exploration of its selected curse words (fuck, shit, bitch, dick, pussy and damn) would've been more obvious. But Cage makes the show as delightful as it can be in its chosen form, even as viewers are left wanting more not only from him, but from the series' examination of profane terms. Of course, deploying The Wire and Da 5 Bloods' Isiah Whitlock Jr. on one specific episode is a pitch-perfect move as well. The first season of The History of Swear Words is available to stream via Netflix. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yiTFFr5PTJk BUMP Thanks to The Secret Life of Us, Love My Way, Spirited, Puberty Blues and The Time of Our Lives, Australian TV hasn't lacked Claudia Karvan's presence over the past two decades. Bump joins them, with Karvan co-creating, co-producing and also co-starring as schoolteacher Angie Davis. The narrative focuses on Angie's teenage daughter Oly (Nathalie Morris, Black Christmas), though. An overachiever attacking Year 11 with gusto and dreaming of a career working for the United Nations, Oly isn't sure what's going on when she starts feeling pangs of pain one morning; however, after throwing up in the school toilets and being taken to hospital via ambulance, she's soon a mother to the baby she didn't even know she was expecting. That all happens in Bump's first episode, with the Stan series' ten-part first season then charting the aftermath — including the massive changes to Oly's life, to Angie and her estranged husband Dom's (Angus Sampson, No Activity), and to Oly's brooding classmate Santi Hernandez's (Carlos Sanson, Little Monsters) as well. Set in Sydney's inner west, filled with characters who actually act and talk like teens, and offering a refreshingly multicultural view of Australia, Bump finds time for both big and small moments. It doesn't shy away from melodramatic plot developments, but it's also filled with complex, well-written and excellently performed characters, Oly and Angie especially. And, it'll fill the Heartbreak High-sized hole in your life before the new version hits. Karvan did star in The Heartbreak Kid, the movie that series was spun off from, after all. The first season of Bump is available to stream via Stan. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MGdcTUMGxB0 THE RENTAL If you've ever felt a little unsettled upon checking into a holiday property, Dave Franco and Joe Swanberg understand. The Bad Neighbours, Nerve and The Disaster Artist actor turns filmmaker for the first time with The Rental, co-writing the script with Drinking Buddies, Win It All and Easy director Swanberg — and the horror-thriller that results preys upon the uneasy suspicion that we could be under surveillance when we pay to stay in someone else's house. Charlie (Dan Stevens, Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga), his wife Michelle (Alison Brie, Happiest Season), his brother Josh (Jeremy Allen White, Shameless), and his business parter and Josh's girlfriend Mina (Sheila Vand, Snowpiercer) all decide to head to a picturesque seaside spot for a weekend getaway. Searching online, they find what seems like the perfect place; however, upon arrival, Mina is quickly creeped out by Taylor (Toby Huss, Halloween), the house's caretaker. The vacation goes downhill from there, not only due to Mina's lingering anxiety about their remote abode, but because the two couples' underlying struggles are thrust out into the open. Unpacking the situation, Franco doesn't always find the best balance between the narrative's horror story and its relationship dramas, but he could've focused the film on either element and it still would've proven engaging. The excellent cast help immensely, and so does the commitment all-round to ensuring this isn't just a cookie-cutter cabin-in-the-woods effort. The Rental is available to stream via Amazon Prime Video. NEW AND RETURNING SHOWS TO CHECK OUT WEEK BY WEEK https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UBhlqe2OTt4&t=19s WANDAVISION From Iron Man to Spider-Man: Far From Home, the Marvel Cinematic Universe has notched up 23 big-screen instalments in its 13 years so far, firmly establishing a franchise template in the process. The characters in the spotlight change from film to film, but a clear formula is at work — which is why the mould-breaking goofiness of the Thor and Guardians of the Galaxy movies (Thor: Ragnarok especially) has stood out. New Disney+ series WandaVision also sits apart from the crowd. It's Marvel's biggest swing so far, in fact. It's also the company's first TV show from a hefty upcoming roster of series about characters already established in the MCU (including Loki, Falcon, the Winter Soldier and Hawkeye), and it relies upon viewers knowing Wanda Maximoff (Elizabeth Olsen, Sorry for Your Loss) and Vision's (Paul Bettany, Solo: A Star Wars Story) history; however, its eagerness to do something different is worth applauding. Set after the events of Avengers: Endgame, it follows its titular couple in their home life. Just how it's able to do that given details already established in the MCU is one of its mysteries. So is the reason behind its approach, with the show aping classic sitcoms such as Leave It to Beaver, Bewitched and The Brady Bunch, as well as the involvement of Monica Rambeau (Teyonah Parris, If Beale Street Could Talk), daughter of Captain Marvel's Air Force pilot Maria Rambeau. So far, WandaVision doesn't always hit its marks — in fact, despite Olsen, Bettany and Kathryn Hahn's (I Know This Much Is True) comic performances, it can be inescapably clunky — but it keeps its audience not only intrigued and invested, but guessing. The first four episodes of WandaVision's first season are available to stream via Disney+, with new episodes releasing each Friday. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3FGq5rZi1Pc SERVANT In its first season, which debuted in 2019, psychological horror series Servant introduced a distinctively disquieting scenario. Philadelphia newsreader Dorothy Turner (Lauren Ambrose, Six Feet Under) and her chef husband Sean (Toby Kebbell, Bloodshot) hire teenage nanny Leanne Grayson (Nell Tiger Free, Game of Thrones) to move in and care for their baby son Jericho — but she's really looking after a doll that Sean has been using to replace the infant, after the boy died at 13 weeks old and Dorothy couldn't cope. That's just Servant's setup, too. Initially, it gets its tension from the efforts by Sean, Leanne and Dorothy's brother Julian (Harry Potter's Rupert Grint) to maintain their ruse, and it makes ample use of the concept. Then Leanne's past comes into play, and the show shifts in different narrative directions while also maintaining its focus on grief, secrets, unhealthy family bonds and the way that darkness can fester in close quarters. M Night Shyamalan is the show's executive producer and has directed multiple episodes, but the series takes far more time to explore its creepy tale — and its sprawling claustrophobic brownstone setting — than Shyamalan's twist-heavy features. Servant's just-started second season picks up where it first left off and continues in the same engrossing fashion, all while investigating mysteries old and new. Its first two episodes also benefit from the work of Raw filmmaker Julia Ducournau behind the lens, while Ishana Night Shyamalan keeps things in the family by following her dad into the director's chair on a couple of episodes as well. The first three episodes of Servant's second season are available to stream via Apple TV+, with new episodes releasing each Friday. CULT CLASSICS TO REVISIT AND REDISCOVER https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PFHjOfgMstE DINOSAURS Sometimes, sitcoms about families unfurl their tales via animation, as seen in everything from The Flintstones and The Jetsons to The Simpsons and Bob's Burgers. More frequently, they fall into the live-action category, which the likes of Family Ties, Full House, Fresh Off the Boat and Modern Family can all attest. But only one family-focused TV sitcom in the television history has focused on animatronic dinosaurs. That'd be Dinosaurs, of course. The big early-90s hit is set 60,000,003 years BCE, when earth was home to the supercontinent Pangaea, and it follows the day-to-day lives of the Sinclair family. Patriarch Earl works as a tree pusher for the Wesayso Corporation, which gives you an idea of the show's satirical leanings. His youngest son Baby spouts catchphrases like "not the mama" and "I'm the baby, gotta love me", which is indicative of the series' broad humour and easy gags. The whole concept was conceived by Jim Henson, his company also produced it, and it was as kooky when it first hit screens as it now sounds. It's also a show that everyone who was a kid in the 90s has strong memories of, and it has quite the finale. And, although your much-younger self couldn't have known all that time ago, Dinosaurs also sees Jessica Walter voice one of her many TV matriarchs — before fellow family-focused sitcom Arrested Development and spy spoof Archer, that is. All four seasons of Dinosaurs are available to stream via Disney+. Images: The History of Swear Words, Adam Rose/Netflix; Lupin, Emmanuel Guimier/Netflix.
The world's most-famous enigmatic smile is beaming down on Australia in 2024, all thanks to the team at Grande Experiences. The Melbourne-based company is the mastermind behind the immersive walkthrough art experiences that've been sweeping the country, both touring them and opening the nation's first permanent digital-only art gallery The Lume — and Leonardo da Vinci and the Mona Lisa are its latest point of focus. The Lume in the Victorian capital is all-in on the artist and inventor. The site's major 2024 exhibition is Leonardo da Vinci: 500 Years of Genius, with the gallery is calling its "most ambitious, immersive and breathtaking yet". That's quite the claim for a collection that follows a van Gogh celebration, a focus on Monet and his contemporaries and the current First Nations-centric Connection. Leonardo da Vinci: 500 Years of Genius displays to art lovers from Saturday, March 16. The Last Supper also enjoys the spotlight in a big way, because Grande Experiences' whole setup is making iconic, important and stunning works larger than life, surrounding attendees like never before. The Mona Lisa links in with the segment of the exhibition that's all about French optical engineer Pascal Cotte, who invented a multispectral camera and has peeled back the artwork's layers using his research. So, get excited about Mona Lisa Revealed, which will include an exact 360-degree replica — the only one in the world — as created thanks to Cotte's 240,000,000-pixel multispectral camera. That said, Leonardo da Vinci: 500 Years of Genius isn't just about its namesake's well-known works, with the 3000-square-metre multi-sensory gallery also exploring his inspirations and contemporaries. So, you can also scope out Botticelli's The Birth of Venus, Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel ceiling and works by Caravaggio. Melbourne is home to an experience that steps through da Vinci's journey, too, including Florence's streets, Venice's canals and Milan — as brought to life via sight, sound, scent, touch and taste. Also among Leonardo da Vinci: 500 Years of Genius' highlights: 50 of da Vinci's "machine inventions", which are on loan the Museo Leonardo da Vinci in Rome. Alongside the Mona Lisa, The Last Supper and his anatomical drawings — and more — da Vinci is well-known for his flying machine concepts, with his 15th-century vision of human flight set to score The Lume's attention. This part of the exhibition heroes recreations made in Italy from the artist and inventor's sketches, and also using the materials and techniques he would've at the time. Updated Friday, October 25, 2024.
If you're on the hunt for a spot to watch the big game among other fans with the commentary coming through loud and clear, Sydney's got some top spots (see: our list of the best pubs and bars to watch sport). But the new pint-sized Inner West bar The Magpie has just thrown its hat in the ring, pairing viewings of The Matildas, The Eels, The Swans and the UFC with a retro fit-out and a crowd-pleasing roster of beers. Sporting a name that acts as both a piece of the Australiana tinge that permeates through the bar and a nod to the Western Suburbs Magpies rugby league team, The Magpie comes to Enmore from the team behind Earl's Juke Joint and Jacoby Tiki Bar. It's opened right next to The Trocadero Room, the intimate new 150-person live music venue that arrived late last year from the same team. Together, the two venues have taken over the space formerly occupied by HiWay Enmore, bolstering the bustling road's sizeable roster of small bars. The Magpie is designed to be a "local's local" — a place where you to drop in for a quick catch-up over a beer or a reliable spot that you know will be playing your favourite footy team's clash with their cross-town rivals. When there's no sport to be shown, you'll find a roster of classic films playing on the mounted televisions. The team has curated a slate of flicks that will transport you back to the days of walking through the aisles at your local Video Ezy (RIP). On tap, you'll find a few of your favourite Inner West breweries pouring, including a special Magpie Old brew that Grifter has whipped up, plus Guinness for good measure. Part sports bar, part small bar with a pub-like feel, The Magpie has opened its doors just in time for both the NRL and AFL seasons, as well as the upcoming Paris Olympics, set to kick off in July. Next door, The Trocadero Room offers a new stage where bands can cut their teeth and artistic communities can come together — plus a fun throwback drinks list featuring cosmos, Midori illusions and spicy margs. Since opening in November, it's already hosted Sydney favourites like Straight Arrows, exciting new up-and-comers like DoloRRes, and every kind of gig imaginable, from comedy nights and evenings dedicated to reggae, to scuzzy punk lineups and all sorts of dance parties. Both The Trocadero Room and The Magpie are located at 156 Enmore Road, Enmore. Head over to Instagram to find this week's gigs and which matches you can catch.
Opening in January 2020, Mrs Palmer didn't have much time to establish itself in Darlinghurst before the lockdown hit and cafes were forced to close to dine-in customers. As the sandwich shop and margarita bar was still allowed to offer takeaway, though, it did just that — with a helping hand from some of the city's best chefs. Mrs Palmer teams up with top chefs to create limited-edition sandwiches, with each one available for takeaway for just two weeks. Past contributors have included Josh Raine, executive chef at Japanese fine diner Tetsuya's, who whipped up a burnt burger cheese bechamel, smoked bacon and kombo fried chicken number, and Aria's executive chef Joel Bickford, with a fermented chilli, wombok, pickled mushroom and fried shallot sando. Each limited-edition sandwich costs between $13–25 depending on what is inside it and is usually unveiled on Mrs Palmer's Instagram in advance. If the fortnightly sandwich special doesn't quite tickle your fancy, the shop also has a falafel sanga with garlic sauce ($11), one with crispy pork belly ($14), The Cure ($13) with three different cured meats (wagyu pastrami, spicy salami and mortadella) and a riff on a parmigiana ($14). There are also two salads and four types of fries (including tater tots and haloumi fries). When you visit, be sure to take note of the door to the left of the counter. It doesn't lead to a stock room, as you may assume, but to a tiny, dimly lit margarita bar. La Farmacia's cocktail menu is split into four types of margarita: classic, spicy, fruity and botanical. All up, there are 16 to try — ranging from a mind-numbing Carolina reaper-infused tequila tipple to a mezcal and hibiscus tea option. To pair with your marg is a selection of Mexican-style snacks, including ceviche, cactus salad, flame-grilled corn and, on Tuesdays, $2.50 tacos. Images: Terence-Kent Ow
Who said you can't make friends with salad? The not-for-profit vegan chain Lentil as Anything has quickly become the dahling of King Street. No need to book, just turnip for amaizing food and an atmosphere that can't be beet. With four thriving stores in Melbourne, what better location for Sydney's first branch than Newtown, a colourful, alternative neighbourhood where even McDonalds couldn't hack the fresh vibe and ended up skipping town in the '90s. Vegans make up just one percent of Australians and it looks like they got the memo — it's a full house tonight with a queue waiting eagerly at the door. There's a live bongo session starting up, the waitstaff are super friendly (and working for free) and there's no alcohol, only chai — what is this place? As 30 percent of the ingredients are donated from food rescue operations, the menu changes often so you'll need to ask your waiter what's on offer. Today there's a creamy Sri Lankan curry made with potatoes and pumpkin, served over rice with dahl, beetroot, banana tossed in coconut, blanched greens, a salad and pappadums. That's just one meal by the way. Yes it's vegan and yes it's donated food, but no, it's not a bowl of flavourless gruel. It's exciting, colourful, healthy, delicious — and yes, it's a huge surprise. Our burrito comes out next, who would have thought you could make a burrito without meat, cheese and sour cream? Well you can and it works, our toasted tortilla is topped with spicy Mexican beans, salad, chilli salsa and a cashew-based cheese sauce (open your mind people) and once again, it's delicious. Who knew? For our third dish, we opt for the brown rice salad topped with eggplant, onions, green vegetables, tomatoes and chickpeas. It feels pretty good to be eating a week's worth of vegetables in one sitting. This is the kind of food that could convert an otherwise blood-loving, alcohol-swilling human being into making some serious lifestyle changes; Lentil as Anything proves being vegan isn't the ultimate sacrifice. The one minor food falter is the chocolate and banana cake which tastes a little claggy, but they did make it without chocolate, eggs, milk and butter, so the team still get a star for a top effort. If you swing by on a Friday or Saturday night, head upstairs for a tasty tonic in their new Lentil on the Rocks mocktail bar. It's a new initiative aimed at creating an inclusive ambience where non-alcoholic drinkers, especially teenagers and pregnant ladies can enjoy a friendly and social environment without booze. One of the most curious features of Lentil as Anything is its unique 'pay as you feel' financial model where there are no bills and no social pressure, just an honesty box as you walk out the door. The money you donate goes straight to the food, rent and utilities and not to anyone's pocket in particular. So, if you pay a little extra, your dosh goes to feeding someone who can't afford a meal, allowing that person to feel accepted and valued by their community. Lentil as Anything has been heartily welcomed by the Newtown fold and once you've bean, you'll olive it too. Don't forget to pay it forward.
Fancy a little Parisian charm without leaving Sydney? Pioneering hidden bar Door Knock launched their new concept earlier this year, pairing a French-inspired neighbourhood bar with the vibe of an underground speakeasy. Both the venue's decor and culinary offerings underwent a significant transformation — dark, sultry and subterranean, the glow-up certainly lives up to its European inspiration. Still hidden behind an unassuming entrance with nothing but a polished brass pineapple doorknocker to let you know you're in the right place, don't expect the Nordic decor that came before once you get inside. Now, the space has been adorned with vintage French mirrors, herringbone panelling, marble tables, leather seating and dimly lit lampshades. For those who've wandered Paris' streets, there's a good chance you've stumbled in somewhere similar. The menu is also rejuvenated to suit Door Knock's new mood. Led by Head Chef Joe Slakey, dishes are designed for sharing and are likely to change with the seasons. The wine offering has also been rejigged, with an expanded menu highlighting drops from France, Italy and Australia. Signature cocktails evolve based on the bartenders' "current obsessions" but may include the likes of the Bullfighter with tequila, mezcal, apricot, lime and coconut cream. "We're not trying to be a high-end restaurant, we've created an accessible and affordable menu, while not sacrificing on big, bold flavours," says owner John Grace. "It was important for us to pay homage to Door Knock's history, while also ushering in a new era, one which allows you to step off from Pitt St and into another world." Door Knock has introduced a new, invitingly affordable lunch special, commencing on Thursday, October 9. Once you've found the hidden bar, you'll be rewarded with one of Slakey's mains and a glass of wine for just $25. Rotating weekly, choose between scotch fillet, crispy pork belly, crab cakes and beef sliders. The lunch special is available from noon to 3pm on Thursday and Friday. Images: Trent van der Jagt.
Coachella's first 2023 weekend brought a heap of highs, including for folks livestreaming at home from around the world. Bad Bunny, BLACKPINK, the late addition of blink-182, a typically stunning set from electronic music legends The Chemical Brothers, none other than Blondie taking to the stage: they're just some of the week-one standouts. Now, it's time to do it all over again as week later, as the Indio, California music festival always does. This year, the event is streaming six stages across both weekends, and it has just dropped its set times after a tumultuous few days. First, the bad news: Frank Ocean is off the bill, dropping out after Coachella's first weekend. That said, everyone beaming in from their couches didn't see his week-one set either because it wasn't livestreamed. Neither was fellow high-profile star Björk's time in the desert. Now, the good news: blink-182 have moved to the Coachella stage to replace Ocean on Sunday, April 23's bill (which is Monday, April 24 Down Under), and there's a TBA slot after them. Variety is reporting that that time will be filled by Skrillex, Fred again.. and Four Tet, and the festival has also named the trio on Instagram — and noted they'll pop on the evening of Sunday, April 23 (again, Monday, 24 Down Under). View this post on Instagram A post shared by Coachella (@coachella) Whoever else ends up on the lineup as a late addition, you'll be able to make shapes at home while pretending you're at the real thing at the Empire Polo Club across Saturday, April 22–Monday, April 24 Australian and New Zealand time. Like last week, Bad Bunny is headlining the first night and BLACKPINK is doing the second, with The Chemical Brothers, Gorillaz, Blondie, Kaytranada, Pusha T and Idris Elba still on day one as well — and Calvin Harris, The Kid LAROI, ROSALÍA, Charlie XCX, boygenius, The Breeders and Underworld on day two. And on day three, there's Björk, Fisher, Porter Robinson, Gordo and Weyes Blood. Obviously, across the whole weekend there's more where they came from. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Coachella (@coachella) Coachella has been teaming up with YouTube for 11 years now. Earlier in 2023, the fest announced that it has locked in that arrangement till 2026. In-between this year's sets, YouTube will fill its feeds with more on-the-ground coverage, so you'll be able to scope out the art and installations around the fest, head behind the scenes, see how the acts get partying before the hit the stage and more. Bookmark Coachella's YouTube channel ASAP — or hit it up below: Coachella's second weekend runs across April 21–23 at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California. To watch the livestream, head to YouTube from 9am AEST on Saturday, April 22 Down Under.
If someone had told me years ago that the Old Clare Hotel would become the most sophisticated venue in Sydney, I would have laughed in their face. Today, however, I'm just hoping they let me inside. The first restaurant to open in the Old Clare complex is Automata, which marks the debut solo opening for ex-Momofuku Seiobo sous chef Clayton Wells. We're given a dining room that looks like a luxury spaceship, filled with sleek polished metals and machinery-styled fittings. I can't wait to see where this meal takes me. The decision-making process is fairly straightforward: there's one option, a five-course, frequently changing degustation ($88), which is pretty reasonably priced as far as degos go. If you can afford to, splash out and get the matching drinks ($55), which will have you sipping umami-based sakes and spirits alongside thoughtfully chosen boutique wines. The meal kicks off with a starter of storm clams swimming in a fishy seawater made from rosemary dashi and ground nori; it's a much more delicious mouthful than you'll find at the beach. It's followed with a clean and cleansing serve of blanched asparagus rolled in sesame leaf and topped with umeboshi plum stock, poured at the table. Dish number two takes a bolder step forward. A meltingly tender hapuka fish is served with creamy roe emulsion and little pops of sea succulents, draped in a melty sheet of dashi-dipped seaweed. The dish combines silky textures with umami punch to create an absolute knockout of a dish. It's about this time that the bread and butter arrive. I wouldn't bother mentioning it except it's pretty much the best butter in the entire world. This ambrosia of the gods is made by whipping butter with chicken jus (chicken jus), anchovies and sunflower seeds until it's as light and fluffy as Chantilly cream with just a hint of nutty crunch. Well done, Wells. Mid-way through the meal, they bring out a big steamed cabbage leaf. Thanks for that. Wait, there's more underneath! Phew. Talk about an Instagrammer's worst nightmare. Concealed beneath a head of braised purple witlof is a slow-roasted quail and creamy smear of burnt eggplant puree. The final savoury dish is a slab of Rangers Valley skirt steak served with morel, shiitake and wood ear mushrooms in a brown butter and tamari sauce. Skirt is the unlikely hero of the day; it's expertly flamed to create a rich, winey caramelisation on the crust while staying moist, pink and tender within. The meal concludes with a scoop of not-so-sweet pumpkin seed sorbet, served alongside freeze-dried mandarins and meringue with a hint of Angostura bitters. The flavours are quite savoury, but it makes perfect sense within the context of the meal. As we leave, we're given two green chartreuse petit fours. I warn you now: consume at your own risk. Chewing on one unleashed a burst of freshness not akin to chugging a bottle of Listerine; it completely wiped my body clean like a herbal nuclear explosion. With no trace of the meal left at all, I started to question whether the dinner even took place. The Old Clare Hotel, the most stylish restaurant in town? Couldn't be.
We've been waiting for this one — Barangaroo's first rooftop venue has officially opened. It makes sense, really; with a direct view over Darling Harbour, it feels like a small crime for all the bars and restaurants to be relegated to ground level. And so it's with open arms that we're sure the people of Sydney will welcome Untied, the latest opening in the waterside foodie precinct. With a location on level four of 400 Barangaroo Avenue, Untied opened on Wednesday, January 25. Channelling the tropical northern Queensland rainforest, the indoor-outdoor bar features lots of lush greenery, vivid colours and room for 260 people all up. The menu follows the Australian theme with a combination of Australian-inspired dishes, including bar snacks, a selection of BBQ share plates and even a raw bar with all the oysters you can handle. After you've shucked and sucked, chase it with one of their cocktails — preferably the Flamin' Galah (with gin, ginger syrup, watermelon and lime) or the Hills Hoist, a mixture of rum, fresh kiwi puree, bitters and egg white. Untied comes from Dixon Hospitality, the group that owns The Norfolk, The Forresters, and, just recently, six of the now-defunct Keystone Group venues. It joins the likes of Belles Hot Chicken, vermouth bar Banksii, sushi fave Zushi, Bentley-run restaurant Cirrus and the new Ume Burger, along with a whole heap of others. Exterior images: Alana Dimou.
The Flinders Hotel is officially back in business. The much-loved Sydney pub ceased operations in 2015, with management laying the blame squarely on the NSW lockout laws. The rebooted Flinders wants to get people through the doors early, an ambition that's set to be reflected by the décor. Describing the new features as "a little bit upmarket," Flinders' spokesperson says the new fitout includes a marble bar, new wallpaper and a greater emphasis on natural light. Alongside the brand-spanking new interior comes an updated menu with a focus on gourmet pizza, gourmet burgers, ribs and "a pretty decent wine list." Sounds like picklebacks are off the menu, folks. That said, the new owner hasn't ditched the old Flinders feel entirely. Hey, why squander a 3am license? "We still want to use it as a live music venue," the spokesperson assures us. "We're connected with a lot of Sydney bands and a lot of DJs."
There are few things more exciting for fellow foodies or experienced home-entertainers than walking into a delicatessen — a retail space designated for foods that are hard to come by and special in their own way. Foods that are delicacies, as the name implies. Whether you're after a grazing platter for your next dinner party or searching for some easy-to-pack goods to take down to the beach for a picnic, delis are an important go-to one-stop-shop. From tinned martinis made in Sydney to marinated octopus imported from Spain, read on for the best delis Sydney has to offer.
Growing up is hard to do, many a movie tells us, but often that glimpse at youthful perils comes with the male experience in mind. Girlhood's name gives away the fact that that's not the case here; however, what it doesn't clearly convey is how intimate and organic its look at its titular state is. A mere female-skewed take on Richard Linklater's Boyhood, this isn't. Sixteen-year-old Marieme (Karidja Touré) lives life on the outskirts of Paris, with her future looking as bleak as her present. Choice, control and agency are sorely lacking in days overseen by her hotheaded older brother (Cyril Mendy), so when she sees a chance at freedom through some newfound pals, she takes it. Soon, she's flirting with teenage trouble alongside fast friends Lady (Assa Sylla), Adiatou (Lindsay Karamoh) and Fily (Marietou Touré), including all the usual fun of partying, shoplifting and drinking, as well as dances with even darker territory. That the movie's French-language moniker actually translates as 'gang of girls' gives an indication of the kind of existence Marieme embraces. If such a coming-of-age tale sounds familiar, don't let the appearance of a well-worn plot temper your expectations. In her previous two films — Water Lilies and Tomboy — writer director Céline Sciamma came close to perfecting pictures of adolescence that not only felt genuine but also reached worlds away from the usual mainstream fare. In Girlhood, she achieves that feat. As Marieme attempts to carve out her identity and cope with the path she has chosen, Sciamma is more concerned about expressing her mindset and reflecting how she sees the world than documenting her actions. Accordingly, as the film tackles maturity on the margins by showing the harshness of the situation but never wallowing in it, Girlhood becomes as complex a look at a girl becoming a woman as cinema has seen, and as simultaneously energetic and patient too. It helps that newcomer Touré is the perfect vessel for the filmmaker to fill with age-appropriate angst, and then watch as the young actress paints a portrait of pubescent pain and problems on the screen. The remainder of the inexperienced cast also brings the same sense of authenticity, but the camera and the audience are always drawn to Touré as she works through Marieme's good and bad decisions. Consequently, prepare for a ride through the reality — not the cinema fiction — of coming to terms with the ups and downs of life from the perspective of a teenage girl. Prepare to get Rihanna's 'Diamonds' stuck in your head, too, with the track setting the tone for one of the film's most memorable scenes. For a few glorious minutes, Marieme and her friends shimmy away to the song in a blue-lit hotel room, blissfully escaping their troubles. In the midst of this moving film, that's what you'll want to do as well.
While there are ample sun-soaked venues around Sydney where a quick dip or a leisurely long lunch are top of the menu, you won't find another quite like this. Situated neatly beside the iconic Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool is this cheerful eatery offering poolside dining with waterfront views. Following a hefty makeover, Oh Boy Cafe has returned for the sunny season, complete with a crowd-pleasing menu and a modern coastal-inspired space. The eatery follows the ethos of "good food, good stories, good times, by the water" and provides a fitting accompaniment for a pre- or post-dip bite. Oh Boy has a modern casual feel with white and terracotta tones pairing beautifully with the crystal blue waters of the neighbouring pool and, beyond that, the harbour. The menu is stacked with breakfast classics, including a great egg and bacon roll, an accumulation of all the fry-up favourites called the Bear Breakfast, and a chickpea breakfast bowl among the vegetarian options. For lunch, have your fill of dishes like the spaghetti and cuttlefish ragu, or opt for familiar favourites like an Angus steak sando or a crumbed chicken schnitty. For summer spritzes in the sun, Oh Boy Café also offers a boozy bottomless brunch. Available Friday–Sunday, you can enjoy two hours of free-flowing mimosas, sparkling wine and rosé alongside a selection of choice dishes from the menu for $78 per person. Plus, the cafe can easily be transformed to host private events of up to 30 people, an option which is available from 7am til 11:30pm daily. Pair the scenes of Woolloomooloo Bay with Oh Boy Cafe's playful menu, and you've secured yourself the perfect summer spot.
Put on your best Hawaiian shirt because the folks from Earls Juke Joint in Newtown have opened up a sneaky tiki bar in Enmore dubbed Jacoby's Tiki Bar — and they are both within walking distance of each other. The new bar takes its inspiration from tiki-obsessed psychiatrist Dr Lawrence Jacoby from cult TV series Twin Peaks. Diehard David Lynch fans should be able to uncover a few other nods to the famous director scattered throughout the venue (at least, that's what my log tells me). The one rule of tiki bars is that you need to go all out. Subtlety be damned. The intimate 60-seater venue has been tastefully decked out in banana leaf wallpaper, a rattan thatched ceiling and carved wooden Tiki figures. It manages to look actually cool rather than too kooky or creepy. The drinks menu centres around ten tiki cocktails, which are mostly rum-heavy concoctions illuminated with bright, tropical flavours. From the list, you can't go past James and the Giant, made from Bulliet bourbon, spiced peach ice tea syrup, apricot brandy, and, to top it all off, absinthe. And then there's the Voodoo Grog — a drinking bowl filled with two types of rum, allspice, passion fruit syrup, honey and lime. However, it's the tiki mugs that really steal the show. These ones are served in beautiful glazed vessels depicting shrunken heads and conch shells, while silly straws, swizzle sticks, and flaming fruit make for a highly memorable experience. As for the wine selection, in true Lynchian style, they're divided by colour — perfect for those in the mood for a straw yellow or garnet red. The bottled beer range includes Hawaiian Kona Big Wave Golden Ale and Sierra Nevada Tropical IPA, while the taps include Jamaican Red Stripe Pale Lager and Grifter Serpent's Kiss. All drinks come with a free bowl of banana chips, and if you're looking for a real meal, the bar offers pizza delivery from Manoosh — just order at the bar. Oh, before you go, no trip to Jacoby's is complete without a trip to the bathroom, although be careful lest you stumble into another dimension. The back hallway has been kitted out in red velvet curtains and black and white chevron tiles to perfectly recreate niwt s'kaep suomaf der moor — ahem — Twin Peaks' famous red room. Images: Katje Ford.
What was once a CBD institution for late-night revellers as the final stop on a night out before you were forced to head home, has reopened as a flash multi-storey and multi-concept pub. Jacksons on George reemerged after years in the wilderness in September 2023 following a multimillion-dollar renovation under the guidance of Maurice Terzini (Icebergs, Re-) and his DTL Entertainment Group partner Michael Broome. There are three distinct spacews in the new Jacksons on George: the ground-floor public bar, a flash new French bistro and the sleek cocktail-fuelled rooftop bar. Leading the charge across all three levels is Head Chef Steven Sinclair, who arrives at the venue with a wealth of experience in world-renowned kitchens. Alongside time spent overlooking Bondi Beach at Icebergs, he's also cut his teeth at two of Ireland's top restaurants, The Old Schoolhouse Inn and The Potted Hen. Wander in from George Street and you'll find a classic pub sporting a fresh fit-out from Sydney-based studio Richards Stanisich. Both here and up on the rooftop, you can expect the tried-and-true combination of pub feeds done well, house twists on classic cocktails and perfectly poured local beers. The ground-floor public bar even has Hard Solo on tap. Some of the unexpected turns you'll discover on the Jacksons on George pub menu include slow-cooked duck sausage rolls, tempura prawn rolls and roast chook cooked over charcoal. Plus, there's a signature dessert on offer: the Jacksons banoffee sundae. There's also a happy hour in the Public Bar every weekday between 4–6pm offering $7 beers and wine. Changing things up above the public bar is the 120-seat Bistro George, a European-inspired diner that champions local produce. Framed by a sea of high rises, this first-floor restaurant offers an abundance of charm and is an ideal date-night or pre-theatre destination. If you're heading to the bistro, our tip is to order a bunch of starters for the table. The wood-fired potato bread, clams casino, beef tartare, chicken liver parfait and salmon gravlax on a sourdough crumpet are all supremely impressive. Throughout Jacksons on George, you'll also find an impressive art collection including a series of works from Archibald and Sulman Prize finalist and Yankunytjatjara artist Kaylene Whiskey, who injects her award-winning blend of traditional Anangu art and contemporary pop culture into the space. And, if you're on the hunt for an intimate spot to host your work Christmas party or a milestone birthday, Bistro George has a 30-guest private dining room, translating the luxury of the restaurant into a secluded corner of the venue.
UPDATE: MARCH 30, 2020 — When you're mostly living on pantry staples, a treat is more than deserved — and you can't go past this Clovelly patisserie's insane creations. You can order savoury pies, bread, eclairs and chocolate-dipped croissants to your doorstep via the Bopple app. It is currently closed to dine-in customers. When you're mostly living on pantry staples, a treat is more than deserved — and you can't go past this Clovelly patisserie's insane creations. You can order everything from savoury pies and bread to eclairs and chocolate-dipped croissants to your doorstep via the Bopple app — or takeaway from the store if you do want to venture outdoors.Sydneysiders with a sweet tooth should make tracks to Clovelly, where renowned pastry chef Yves Scherrer is now pumping out his goods at new patisserie and bakery Madame & Yves. Scherrer — who's opened the venue with partner Jennifer — has worked across several of Sydney's fine dining institutions, creating stunning desserts at the likes of Sokyo and now-closed restaurants Est. and Ananas Brasserie. He also recently coached the Australian World Pastry Cup team — which went on to win sixth place worldwide — and is the man responsible for Sake's much Instagrammed dragon egg dessert. While the dragon egg will not make an appearance at Madame & Yves, a few of Scherrer's other famed creations will grace the menu — including the salted caramel eclairs from Ananas and the white sesame gelato from Sake. The leaves room on the menu for a whole heap of new creations, like the matcha yuzu roll (matcha sponge, mascarpone yuzu cream, yuzu whipped ganache, shiso leaf gel and choux pastry) and the piña colada tart (coconut mousse, lime curd, rum-flambéed pineapple and sweet pastry). Expect cakes, tarts, fresh bread and pastries aplenty. There is a whole host of croissants, from the classic ham and cheese, to a Ferrero version filled with hazelnut and dipped in chocolate. There's also a sizeable list of handmade gelato and sorbet on offer, including vanilla bourbon, pineapple yoghurt and lemongrass varieties. You'll also notice a focus on native and seasonal Aussie ingredients here, with no artificial colours or additives to speak of. Patrons can see an environmental focus elsewhere in the shop, too — notably in the biodegradable plant-based packaging and the Green Caffeen swap-and-go cup cups. For those coffees, the patisserie has teamed up with social enterprise Madding Crowd Coffee, a small-batch Sydney roaster which donates a portion of profits back to charity (and whose beans come in reusable tins). The Clovelly Road shop is small, which means you can watch the team of pastry chefs in action from the open kitchen as you order at the counter. There are a few outdoor tables, too, made for morning coffees and croissants. Find Madame & Yves at 343–345 Clovelly Road, Clovelly. It's open daily from 7am–5pm.
Everyone should play tourist in their own town. For fans of horror movies in the Harbour City, everyone should see Sydney's historic spots in a whole new light while a frightening flick rolls and Haus of Horror throws a party. That's the immersive cinema outfit's setup, and it has both the winter solstice and the Old Darlinghurst Gaol in its sights next — plus getting eerie with the American remake of The Ring. In the past, for over a year, Haus of Horror has popped up everywhere from Parramatta Gaol and Camperdown Cemetery to Cockatoo Island, showing The Exorcist, the OG Scream, Beetlejuice, A Nightmare on Elm Street and more. Now, before you truly get into the winter spirit, you'll see The Ring inside a cellblock with a full moon in the sky outside. You have two sessions to choose from, both on Saturday, June 22 (technically a day after 2024's winter solstice, but this kind of event was always going to be more fun on a Saturday instead of a Friday). So, either head through the doors at 5pm for a 7pm screening, or mosey through at 7.15pm for a 9.15pm showing. Either way, a date with Samara is only a portion of the party. Prior to the movie flickering through the projector, you'll be given time to explore the site — a place that dates back to the 1820s, housed prisoners from 1841–1914, then became a technical college and later the National Art School. The old gaol has turned the former women's prisoner wing into a theatre, which is where you'll be watching. If you need to peel your eyes away from the screen, look out for remnants of the space's previous use etched onto the walls. Haus of Horror is also setting up scare zones, a photo booth, and markets selling handmade and vintage wares. A fortune teller will get clairvoyant with attendees, a DJ will be spinning tunes, good vendors will have bites to eat on offer and a bloody-themed cocktail will be available at the bar. The crew behind the event is calling this their inaugural winter solstice shindig, aiming to turn it into an annual tradition — meaning that 2024 is the only time that you can say that you were there when this party began. Haus of Horror's Winter Solstice Party featuring The Ring takes place on Saturday, June 22, 2024. Head to the Haus of Horror website for tickets and further details.
Eleven days of soccer action kick off in Darling Harbour this month. Held on a floating football pitch in Cockle Bay, the Big Issue Street Football Festival will bring together players and fans from across the country. The inaugural event in 2011 welcomed 600 participants in no less than 148 football matches, and this year's festival promises to be even bigger. Incorporating government, corporate and junior events, the festival spans a range of competitions, including the national championships of the Big Issue’s Community Street Soccer Program. The program supports disadvantaged people who are experiencing homelessness, disability and long-term unemployment. Check out the full event program for dates of and details on other matches.
The northern beaches has a bit of a reputation for being an area of Sydney that people never leave. But spend some time exploring this picturesque coastal strip, and you'll understand the appeal of the bubble. Avalon is the gem in the centre of Sydney's northside crown, filled with great local shops and a heartwarming community feel. A wander through these shops makes for the perfect end to a day on the beach, particularly when you have everyone guessing where you bought your new linen set or woven basket. Whether you are a local or a visitor, be sure to pack your swimmers and a towel, arm yourself with your American Express Card, and spend the afternoon exploring the unique clothing boutiques, handmade homewares stores, and artisanal food shops. In partnership with American Express, we've curated a selection of great local businesses to help you get the most out of a day of shopping small in this northern beaches suburb.
Cult skincare fave The Ordinary is touching down in Bondi for the drop of its latest product, just in time for sunny spring. The Soothing Barrier and Support Serum features a knockout combo of vitamin B12, niacinamide, ceramides and gallic acid derivatives and is designed to repair and protect the skin barrier in as little as two hours. And the fun part? It's naturally pink. Stop in at Campbell Parade opposite Hall Street between 11am–4pm from this Friday, September 1 to Sunday, September 3 to learn about the product and get treated to a free soft-serve. You could also win one of 350 products — look for the pink sticker.
Beyond the retail shopfront of the Balmain incarnation of Nature's Energy is a warm world of soaking, steaming and massaging magic. There are treatments to match your rejuvenation requirements, from deep tissue massages to restorative acupuncture and soothing facials. But it's the bathhouse that sets this spa apart. Get out of your comfort zone and get pruny, lounging beside bikini-clad strangers while you sweat it out in steam rooms and simmer in spa baths. Stay hydrated as you follow the wall-mounted instructions on when to jump between hot and cold pools, and you'll be rewarded with an airy feeling of ultimate freshness. You can combine this experience with other treatments, like a Turkish body scrub, or visit for a solo splash 'n' sweat starting at just $34 for 30 minutes.
In Stay of the Week, we explore some of the world's best and most unique accommodations — giving you a little inspiration for your next trip. In this instalment, we take you to the Woodland Cabin, one of three luxe lodgings at Logan Brae Retreats in the Blue Mountains. With room for only two, any one of the cabins is an ideal getaway for when you need space, solitude and something a little fancy. WHAT'S SO SPECIAL? The magical quality of this escape starts well before check in. If you're heading here from Sydney, you'll start your journey by winding your way through Hazelbrook, Wentworth Falls and Blackheath (stopping off for deli provisions and vino, so there's no need to interrupt your imminent immersion in nature) before you're welcomed by expansive views across Megalong Valley. Once you pull into the gravel driveway and make your way up to the Woodland Cabin, you'll immediately be consumed by calm. Warmly hued festoon lights, wildlife wandering freely, a round plunge pool perched alongside your deck, a vista to rival most: everything is special here. THE SPACE Although there's only room for a pair at the Woodland Cabin, the lofty open-plan design, towering windows and pared-back earthy palette delivers a space that's anything but small. You'll arrive to an already-built fire in the hearth with logs aplenty stacked alongside — all you need to do is strike the match. There's a deep stone tub to soak in, which when married with that view makes for a deliciously spent afternoon. And in the bathroom? A wide double shower, stone-topped vanity and gold fixtures, a lineup of lush products from Apotheke, plus style-heavy towels and robes adding a transportive touch of luxe. Outside, deck chairs beckon you for a morning coffee, as does a breakfast bar and outdoor dining set. While the deep plunge pool ensures you can beat any country heat. FOOD AND DRINK As a delightful touch to start your trip, a basket of snacks, vino, chocolate and light breakfast supplies waits on the dining table for you. Then, in the kitchen, you've got all the essentials. An oven, gas stove and nice wide sink join all the usual suspects (fridge, microwave, toaster, pots and pans); and you've covered for both olive oil and salt and pepper. Caffeine a pre-requisite? You've got a dedicated coffee bench, you lucky thing. Espresso machine? Tick. Plunger? Tick. Percolator? Tick. You can even make your own drip coffee. There's freshly ground beans, milk — cow only, so BYOM(ilk) if you're an almond or oat drinker — plus a 12-strong selection of teas. If you don't want to cook, you can get catering from Lavender Hill Graze. There's breakfast boxes, barbecue and salad packs and grazing platters ideal for by the pool. You can even have a picnic basket (complete with bubbles and rug) delivered to your doorstep. THE LOCAL AREA The Blue Mountains is a classic choice for a Sydneysider's weekender. And it's with good reason. There are hikes up to world-class views and secluded waterholes, buzzy breweries and cosy restaurants — all surrounded by that fresh clean country air. Nearby your lodging are farmers markets (in Blackheath on the second Sunday of the month), Euro-inspired saunas and the option to explore the area atop a horse. And if you want to stay close, stroll to the staggering cactus plant or stick to the private Woodlands Walk for a top-notch spot to take in the sunset. Got a book? Head to the tree hammock and while away your time suspended among the trees. THE EXTRAS Beyond the fact that this spot is clearly a winner, the family-run stay boasts delightfully personal touches too. Take the props adorning the walls: hats fit for seasoned bushmen and a whip. You two holidaymakers can stage a shoot, ensuring you have more than happy memories when you leave. There's a set of vintage binoculars for spotting faraway critters and all the deets for you to organise an in-room spa treatment. You can even organise flowers on arrival, from the locally loved micro flower farm Floral by Nature. It's just about time you booked a stay, dear reader. Feeling inspired to book a truly unique getaway? Head to Concrete Playground Trips to explore a range of holidays curated by our editorial team. We've teamed up with all the best providers of flights, stays and experiences to bring you a series of unforgettable trips in destinations all over the world.
Located directly across from the beach in Collaroy, Stay Grounded Café and Diner is the ideal place to stop by after a surf or if you're catching up with friends for brunch. There's tasty food, great coffee by Single O and a relaxed and welcoming vibe. For brekkie, try the poached eggs with roasted field mushrooms, caramelised onion and chilli, or the oats and chia bircher muesli with fresh berries and coconut yoghurt. For lunch, the grounded bowl with falafel, beetroot hummus, cauliflower, pumpkin, avocado and green goddess dressing will keep you going all day. Stay Grounded is now also open after dark. So, you can head in for a cocktail, a local beer and dishes such as barramundi tacos, chorizo and halloumi skewers and chicken wings with buttermilk dressing. Images: Mel Koutchavlis
What's huge, oval-shaped, usually confined to the realms of fiction, belongs to a creature that's played a key part in the biggest TV series of the past decade, and currently sitting in Melbourne this very instant? A dragon egg, of course. What can you mosey over to Federation Square to see for the next two days in all of its four-metre-tall glory? What's surrounded by dragon eyes and the flying, fire-breathing critters' silhouettes across buildings around the Victorian capital? That very egg — to the joy of wannabe Targaryens, naturally. Always felt like you belong in the Game of Thrones House with an affinity for scaly beasts? Keen to live out your George RR Martin fandom in any way you can? Need something to do before the Iron Throne visits Melbourne in September? Just so excited about GoT prequel House of the Dragon that you don't know how to cope until it starts airing on Monday, August 22?Here's your answer. If you live elsewhere in the country, though, you'll want to do one of two things: plan an impromptu trip this weekend, or get one of your mates to go along so you can live vicariously through their photos. Either way, the towering egg is only on display at Fed Square from 10am–7pm on Friday, August 19 and 8am–7pm on Saturday, August 20. And, as well as seeing it, taking snaps next to it and peering upwards to spy signs of dragons around Melbourne, you'll want to keep your ears pricked as well — there's a soundscape filled with the calls and noises of dragons echoing around the place, too. The reason for this ovoid pop-up? Promoting House of the Dragon, of course. The series is finally coming after years of speculation, development and announcements about various spinoffs are under consideration (including a Jon Snow-focused sequel) — and this egg is here to prove it. If you've somehow missed all the House of the Dragon news, the show is set 200 years before the events of GoT, and focuses on House Targaryen. Yes, that means that dragons are obviously part of the series — again, hence this giant egg. Also pivotal: a Succession-style battle over who should sit on the Iron Throne, because it wouldn't be a Game of Thrones prequel without it. Anyone in the vicinity of Fed Square can head over to see the egg for free, and get a taste of Australia's latest pop culture-themed installation — after a barber giving out The Gray Man-style goatees and moustaches also did the honours in Melbourne recently, and an Everything Everywhere All At Once-inspired multidimensional laundromat before that. Cinema Nova also decked itself out The French Dispatch-style last summer, while Sydney has seen the giant 'Red Light, Green Light' doll from Squid Game made an appearance by the harbour, and a Stranger Things rift open up on Bondi Beach. This isn't the dragon egg's first local stop, actually. It first arrived at Anglesea, on the beach, on Thursday, August 18 — which clearly would've made quite the sight. Then, it travelled along the Great Ocean Road to Melbourne, ready for two days of GoT devotees in Fed Square. Check out the full House of the Dragon trailer below: Find the House of the Dragon dragon egg at Federation Square, the corner of Swanston and Flinders streets, Melbourne, from 10am–7pm on Friday, August 19 and 8am–7pm on Saturday, August 20. House of the Dragon will start airing on Monday, August 22 Down Under via Foxtel and Binge. Images: Aaron Walker Photography.
There was a time (and not so long ago, either) when a Sydney restaurant serving seasonal, locally sourced produce and dotted with greenery and touches of millennial pink would barely cause us to bat an eyelid — but The Botanica Vaucluse takes these well-practised trends to a new level. And it's beautiful. The restaurant boasts one of Sydney's most eye-catching fit-outs, beginning with an entrance by landscape designer Charlie Albone (Selling Houses Australia), marked by a copper archway draped with hanging succulents. Inside, the airy, light-filled dining room — the vision of award-winning designer Evette Moran — lands somewhere between greenhouse and dreamhouse. Floor-to-ceiling windows open onto a lush garden, while custom floral wallpaper and cleverly placed greenery create a sense of natural abundance. Plush pink velvet armchairs and invitingly soft carpets complete the upscale tea party feel. And that's before we get to the luxe on-site spa next door (but more on that below). There's plenty of substance behind the style, though. The menu, from co-head chefs Abby James (Quay) and Thai Sams (Bentley Restaurant + Bar), is entirely gluten-free, built around farm-to-table ingredients like veggies from the restaurant's own kitchen garden, sustainably sourced seafood and free-range meats. Highlights include stracciatella with charred greens and leek oil, Glacier 51 toothfish with buttermilk and smoked hock and Margra lamb with kombu, buttermilk and pea blossom. Cocktails also speak to seasonality, with bright, fruit-forward cocktails and a dedicated spritz menu joined by a tight wine list of Australian and European varietals, plus a solid lineup of non-alc options. Next door is Sol Spa, a tranquil, lemongrass-scented retreat where therapists use botanical-infused products, minerals and active compounds to revitalise guests through a suite of old- and new-world treatments. So where exactly did they find the space for this opulent garden restaurant and spa? It's actually part of Mark Moran Vaucluse, a $115 million luxury aged care residence on Old South Head Road. Not that it feels like one — the restaurant and spa have their own entrances, while the vibe is more tropical resort than retirement retreat. [caption id="attachment_666632" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nikki To[/caption] Top images: Nikki To
Whether you're a fan of the season or can't wait for it to disappear, the time has come to give winter a stylish send-off. And what better way to do so than at The Governor Hotel's rooftop bar, where they've assembled an alpine-themed one-night-only bash. Taking over the space from 12pm–late on Saturday, August 30, this winter wonderland will feature wall-to-wall mountain-inspired fun. Think snow machines, giant igloos, fire pits and winter cocktails that rise above your average mulled wine. Of course, every good blowout needs the live entertainment to match. Apres DJs K-Time and Helena Ellis will light up the dance floor from 5pm, while drink specials like Aperol spritz snowcones and espresso martini slushies will be served throughout the night. Then, get ready to experience even more heat amid the winter fun. The crew from Fireball have put together an ice luge with spicy shots flowing down cinnamon slopes. Plus, there's a Fireball bubbler to face head-on. Don't worry, you'll protect yourself with a ski mask. Meanwhile, spin the wheel to see if you win sponsored merchandise. Bringing a flavour hit to the snowy madness, The Gov has also cooked up a selection of food specials for guests. You'll encounter hot pretzels paired with Fireball dipping sauce, Canadian-style loaded fries and freshly baked cinnamon cookies. Keen? This raucous event might be your last chance to don your favourite winter outfit and indulge in some winter escapism.
For the past 30 years, the Terminus Hotel, a 177-year-old pub in Pyrmont, has been an enigma to passersby, its facade overgrown with vines, its windows boarded up and its doors bolted. Yet, back in the 1840s, it was one of the city's most boisterous drinking spots. Situated at the very end of the tram line (hence the name), the pub was a favourite stop for workers keen for a beer — or several — after a hard day's yakka. In 2016, business partners David Mathlin and Binu Katari decided to bring the old girl back to life. Downstairs, drop an elbow on the marble-topped Tram Bar and order a craft beer, such as a signature Terminus Lager or a French sparkling wine. Alternatively, head into the cosy courtyard. Either way, you'll be able to watch the open glass-walled kitchen in full flight. Upstairs, there's a classy cocktail bar named after Vera Dempsey, a tough, buxom woman who ran the Terminus in the 1930s. The light-filled space spills out onto a roomy, sun-dappled terrace, with a retractable rooftop, for when those all-too-familiar Sydney downpours suddenly hit. And, should you just so happen to find yourself partying like it's the 1840s, you can stay the night in one of the Terminus's cute boutique budget rooms, bookable via Airbnb. Heading up the kitchen is Turkish-born chef Bektas Mustafa Ozcan, who's worked at Anason, Chiswick and Jamie's Italian. His menu features both fancied-up Aussie pub classics and moreish Mediterranean share plates. There are three ways to eat at the Terminus. If you're peckish, go for a bar snack, such as a rolled cigar 'borek' (pastry filled with mushroom and three cheeses) or grilled sumac-cured calamari with chickpeas and sorrel. If you're starving — but don't want to share — choose a poshed-up pub classic, like fried flathead with chips and aioli or the mighty Terminus burger. And, if you're ready to settle in with some friends, order share plates. The slow-roasted, oyster-cut lamb shoulder with smoky eggplant caviar and pickles is hard to go past. Meanwhile, the cocktail list is made up of creative takes on classics. The Terminus Sour, for example, is Chivas 12 Whisky and Pernod Absinthe, shaken with fresh lemon juice and house-made thyme syrup, then strained over ice. Then there's the Blood Orange Margarita: Altos Plata tequila, Solerno Blood orange liqueur and Campari shaken with fresh lime juice and a dash of agave syrup, then strained. You're welcome to drink your favourite cocktail wherever you like, but, if you're looking for the best spot to linger and chat, climb up the staircase to Vera's. Images: Kitti Smallbone
Buddy's in Newtown is the suburb's first-ever self-service bar, taking over the site formerly occupied by Lentil As Anything. The King Street spot will have your beer-pulling skills on display, with each beverage you consume — whether that's a hoppy craft brew or a sweet and sour cocktail — coming from one of the 30+ self-serve taps around the venue. This two-storey boozery is the brainchild of co-owners Jimmy Roe and Duncan McGeoch, who've kept the fit-out relatively simple with ample seating, polished brick, and a heap of natural light, as well as playful custom artwork by Newtown artist Paul Tooth. The considerable drinks lineup comes from a carefully curated selection of local craft beer, natural wine, house-made cocktails and non-alcoholic options, all of which are stored in kegs. And the storage choice is purposeful. Roe and McGeoch are committed to reducing their environmental impact, ensuring that lowering waste and minimising the business's carbon footprint is top of mind and steers their business practices. Roe told Concrete Playground: "We want to offer an experience without the wastage that can be traditionally generated at hospitality venues." If you're wondering how exactly the self-serve system works (and how it isn't an RSA minefield), here's the general gist. You start by procuring a Buddy's venue card upon entrance and pre-load it with your desired amount to spend. From there, you head to the beverage wall where you grab a glass and select your booze of choice, tap your card to activate the tap and pour to your heart's content. The system tracks volume limits and is responsible for card reactivation, so you'll be kept in check. It's not all booze, though. If you're feeling peckish, Buddy's has partnered with the local crew from Rub-A-Dub seasoning and has a snack-heavy sharing menu on offer. You'll find a bunch of beer-friendly options like nachos, flatbread Italian pizzas and Rub-A-Dub's famous chicken ribs, alongside Aussie classics like fairy bread. And if you're catering to a larger group — or just up for an insane personal challenge — opt for the one-metre long bruschetta.
Are you ready, Sydney? Madame Truffles is opening her pop-up shop for the fourth truffle season running, bringing city folk black truffles sourced from Tasmania, Victoria, NSW and Western Australia. These 'gourmet mushrooms' will be available from June 14 until September 2 at the Madame's pop-up shop — which is setting up at a new location at 28 Kensington Street, Chippendale. As well as straight-up truffles, the shop has an array of truffle-infused goods for you to fill your pantry with, this year using French black truffles. The 2018 store will be stocked with both ravioli of both the truffle and potato and truffle and porcini mushroom kinds, plus truffle salt, truffle ice cream, truffle butter and truffle honey. This is made with extra grade black truffle and pure Australian honey from Victoria that's good enough to eat straight out of the jar. If you live in a sharehouse, you might want to hide this from your housemates. Truffles sold in-store are harvested fresh each week, so you know you'll get that fresh truffle smell when you pull them out at dinner (or breakfast, for that matter). The Madame Truffles pop-up shop will open from 9am–5pm Thursday and Friday, and 9am–4pm Saturday and Sunday.
