Land of leafy streets, flowery parks and sparkling Harbour coves, the lower north shore could fool you into thinking that it's too quiet for any sort of nightlife. But among the greenery and gated manors, there are pubs and small bars aplenty. From Kirribilli to Cremorne, North Sydney to Neutral Bay, there's a drinking hole for whatever mood you're in, whether that's sampling fine wine and share plates in calm surrounds, or lingering over a Melbourne Bitter to a rock 'n' roll soundtrack. THE GREENS, NORTH SYDNEY The Greens isn't just a bar. It's also a lawn bowls hub and, depending on the day, a petting zoo, live music venue and outdoor yoga studio. Get as active as you like or kick back, do nothing and take in the Harbour views. On the drink side of things, you can settle in with a drink for one or grab one of the venue's share cocktails (which are designed for four people). The Watermelon Kegger (with vodka, watermelon and lychee juice) is always a hit, as is the Belvedere Spritz if you're looking for something bubbly SOCAL, NEUTRAL BAY You might not associate the lower north shore with California, but swing by SoCal and you may change your mind. SoCal is the brainchild of mates Ben Carroll and Hamish Watts, who travelled around the state together and fell for it hard. Upon returning, they decided to set up their own slice of Cali in Sydney. Settle into a burnt orange seat beneath colourful bunting, and order an cocktail smoked in-house, like the Hey Ron! with a smokey mezcal, Campari and sweet vermouth concoction. There are also a stack of Mexican-influenced snacks and feasts to match. FIREFLY, NEUTRAL BAY Firefly gets its name from Lucetta Sernia, an Italian rebel who dropped out of school as a teen to join a travelling cabaret. Years later, she swapped performing for running a small bar, which she never named to skip paying licensing fees. Locals came to call it 'La Lucetta/La Lucciola', meaning Little Light/The Firefly. Sydney's own Firefly is a sweet, laidback spot for sharing good bottles of wine and plates of sous vide hanger steak, wagyu cheeseburger sliders and Moroccan spiced chicken breast. THE BOTANIST, KIRRIBILLI The Botanist is a paean to Gerard Fothergill, the explorer and, well, botanist who studied plants and spices and their medicinal qualities. Born in England, he journeyed through India, Africa and the Middle East before spending his final years in Kirribilli. Herbs, spices and adventure are all part of The Botanist experience. Take the signature cocktail menu, for example, Purple Haze which features blueberry-infused Maker's Mark, peach liqueur and orange bitters, and the Birds of Paradise with spiced rum, Campari, mango and absinthe mist. THE OAKS, NEUTRAL BAY The Oaks has kept lower north shore drinkers fed, hydrated and merry since 1885. This Neutral Bay institution gives you a choice of five drinking dens. Nineteenthirtysix is a throwback to the 1940s with its zinc bar and leather couches, while the indoor-outdoor Garden Pavilion is all light, air and rambling vines. For pool, cards and chairs covered in blue flamingoes, check out the Cue and Cushion, and for drinks beneath their namesake oak tree wrapped in fairy lights, look to The Garden Bar. If you're hanging out in a group, get stuck into The Oaks' carafes, one being the Fijian Punch with spiced rum, lychees, mint, orange, lime and ginger. STUFFED BEAVER, CROWS NEST Complete with poutine fries, burgers, chicken wings and bric-a-brac, the second iteration of Bondi's much-loved Stuffed Beaver has opened in Crows Nest. Plus, there are new arcade games. We're talking stuff-of-gamer's-dreams machines that let you play every game created during the halcyon days of the 80s and 90s — from Double Dragon and Street Fighter to Golden Axe. Or grab a Philter brew fro Marrickville and settle in front of the enormous 120-inch screen, which will be screening a steady stream of local and international sport. On the menu you'll find the venue's much-lusted-after chicken wings, poutine fries, hot dogs, nachos and burgers — from the classic cheeseburger and the Beaver Fried Chicken Burger to the Make 'Americana' Great Again. Vegetarians are looked after, too, with a range of salads and a mushroom burger. THE CHEESE AND WINE CO, NEUTRAL BAY This aptly named cheese and wine bar sits on Grosvenor Lane, just around the corner from the institution that is The Oaks. The 50-strong wine list rotates every three months and spans from easy-to-drink vino to wines geared for a more complex palate, so both novice oenophiles and budding sommelier types can feel at home here. If you find a wine you really like, you'll eventually be able to take it home with you — all of the wines will make their way onto the online shop once they're rotated off the bar list. On the cheese side of things, the bar has 13 different types to choose from at the moment, with specialties like deep fried camembert and baked brie also making the menu. And like the wine, this list will change regularly as well. Cheese boards are served as share platters alongside charcuterie, salumi and other antipasti, so eating with your hands is encouraged. THE HAYBERRY, CROWS NEST If you like your bevs with a dose of good ol' blues, rock 'n' roll and photos of Ned Kelly, then get 'em at The Hayberry. The drinks list starts with the classics like XXXX Gold and Melbourne Bitter, swings by a bunch of bottled crafties from all over Australia and the US, and finishes up with some traditional cocktails. On tap, you'll find more craft beers, rotated seasonally and served by the pint. And make sure to match your drink choice with some beer-friendly fare, be it popcorn chicken or a Big Stack burger with waffle fries. And if you're there Thursday, don't miss the $1 wings. [caption id="attachment_666653" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Zoe May[/caption] THE FOXTROT, CROWS NEST Walking into The Foxtrot feels a bit like dropping by someone's lounge room — were that someone a bit obsessed with all things Gothic (and whiskey). Think dim lighting, cosy couches and an AstroTurf courtyard. DJs add to the atmosphere on Friday and Saturday nights, too. The drinks list specialises in refreshing seasonal concoctions, with autumn's list including the Disco Punch — with pisco, pineapple syrup and candied pineapple — and the Bison Grass Cooler with vodka, apple and lemongrass. Come Tuesday and Wednesday for $10 pizzas or Thursday for a $10 Jameson and apple juice. TONIC LANE, NEUTRAL BAY Since June 2016, Tonic Lane has been upping the spirits game on the lower north shore. By day, the venue is a cafe, but come 4pm, a bell rings and the mighty gin and tonic takes over, turning the venue into a full fledged 'ginoteria'. Holding one of Sydney's largest collection of Australian gins under one roof, the bar has over 100 Aussie gins in its arsenal, including locals such as Archie Rose, Poor Toms and Young Henrys Noble Cut, and from further afield, Four Pillars (Victoria) and Hobart No 4 (Tassie). On the cocktail list you'll find gin-based originals including the Papa Smurf — made with gin, mandarin liqueur, mint and lemon — or you can build-your-own custom cocktail. Top image: The Oaks
In the words of The Little Mermaid, "it's better, down where it's wetter". For a city that's oft-accused of being surface-heavy, Sydney has a lot going on beneath. More than 500 species roam the harbour and surrounds — from flamboyant weedy sea dragons to green turtles and (thankfully) blunt-headed Port Jackson sharks. So, when the hectic pace of life on top gets you down, don your flippers and head underwater at one of the best Sydney snorkelling spots, where time slows to a delightfully dreamy tempo. Here are 13 of the most lively, colourful and intricate snorkelling spots around Sydney, from the crystalline waters of Little Bay to the rocky outcrops of Manly's Cabbage Tree Bay and the surreal seagrass beds of The Basin, Pittwater. Recommended reads: The Best Ocean Pools in Sydney The Best Waterfalls to Swim Under Near Sydney The Best Beaches in Sydney The Best Rivers to Swim in Near Sydney [caption id="attachment_704431" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] LITTLE MANLY COVE Little Manly Cove is made for slow, gentle, relaxing snorkelling. Your best bet is to start on the outside of the swimming enclosure's western wall and follow it all the way around to the rocks on the eastern side. Stick alongside them until you hit the point before heading back. If you're keen for further adventure, Collins Flat and Store Beaches are short strolls away. This is also one of our favourite spots for kayaking near Sydney. [caption id="attachment_704433" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] CABBAGE TREE BAY Like the Bronte-Coogee stretch, Cabbage Tree Bay is in an aquatic reserve. It comprises 20 hectares, between Manly Beach's southern end and the northern tip of Shelly Beach Headland. Most of the time, visibility is extraordinarily good and the diversity of critters Great Barrier-level impressive. The most convenient place to begin is Shelly Beach. Follow the reef along the headland or jump in at the boat ramp and swim alongside the walkway. Prepare to meet flounder, flathead, goatfish, old wives, fiddler rays and sharks — namely Port Jacksons, wobbegongs and, between January and June, young dusky whalers. [caption id="attachment_704435" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] THE BASIN, KU-RING-GAI This escapade takes you into new territory. Safe within the shelter of Pittwater, you'll discover the alternative universe created by seagrass beds. The star attraction is sea horses, but you'll also cross paths with starfish, cuttlefish, bream, leather jackets and, during the warmer months, tropical species. If you want a helping hand, book a tour with Eco Treasures. To make a weekend of it, take your tent and stay overnight in The Basin campground. The Basin is only accessible by water (or via a 2.8-kilometre track from West Head Road car park) — catch a ferry from Palm Beach. [caption id="attachment_663537" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Paros Huckstepp[/caption] CLOVELLY Like Little Bay (below), Clovelly is a safe, reassuring place to start for inexperienced snorkellers. Unless a storm is brewing at sea, the waters are tranquil and it's easy to get in and out via concrete steps. The most renowned underwater resident(s) is Bluey, a 1.2-metre long blue groper, who was allegedly murdered in 2002 and 2005, but keeps making mysterious returns. The entire Bronte-Coogee coastline is an aquatic reserve, so, in addition to Bluey (and his offspring), there's a wealth of marine life. By the way, killing a groper — New South Wales's official fish — can provoke a fine of up to $22,000. [caption id="attachment_703766" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Taso Viglas via Flickr[/caption] KURNELL Famous for being the Captain Cook's 1770 landing space, Kurnell is also where you'll find one of the city's busiest underwater communities. For an easy entry point, try Silver Beach, from where you can swim east towards Kamay Botany Bay National Park, passing Cook's obelisk on the way. Keep your eyes peeled for giant cuttlefish, moray eels, sea horses, Port Jacksons and firetruck red weedy sea dragons, decorated with bright blue stripes and canary yellow spots. Fur seals make occasional visits, too. [caption id="attachment_704432" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] BARE ISLAND Just north of Kurnell, across the mouth of Botany Bay, lies Bare Island. Arrive on a weekend and you'll be sharing with lots of scuba divers; it's one of the most popular diving sites in not only Sydney but also New South Wales. If the island looks familiar despite your having not visited before, that's because you saw it in Mission Impossible II (remember the villain's lair?). The western side has good visibility and vibrant sponge gardens filled with life, including red Indian fish and gurnards, while the eastern coast is hugged by a rocky reef. A footbridge connects the island to the mainland. [caption id="attachment_703769" align="alignnone" width="1920"] TotyVox via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] LITTLE BAY For snorkelling newbies, Little Bay is a treat. Rocky headlands provide excellent protection from the behemoth Pacific, so the water is almost always calm and clear. Shy, delicate creatures thrive here, from sea anemones and black urchins to squid and tiny fish, travelling in large, brilliant schools. The beach has toilet and change rooms about half way down the steep timber staircase that leads to the beach. [caption id="attachment_703770" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Adam JWC via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] MALABAR BEACH Just north of Little Bay is Malabar Beach, which is home to not one but two shipwrecks. In 1931, the MV Malabar was travelling to Sydney from Singapore when it smashed into the headland. Everyone on board survived, but the ship (or bits of it, at least) are still in the sea. As are parts of the HMAS Goolgwai, which hit rocks and was wrecked here 24 years later in 1955. It's a hit with divers, and, when visibility's good, snorkellers can check them out, too. Meanwhile, an abundance of octopuses, sting rays and assorted fish will keep you company. [caption id="attachment_704430" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] GORDONS BAY Hidden between Clovelly and Coogee Beaches, Gordons Bay is one of the eastern suburbs' prettiest spots. And it's the only snorkelling destination on this list with a dedicated underwater nature trail. Like the MV Malabar wreck, it's gold for divers, but, thanks to the bay's incredibly clear waters, snorkellers can also enjoy it on most days. Simply follow the series of sunken drums, linked by chains, each of which gives you info about local submarine dwellers, from starfish, sponges, urchins and anemones to cuttlefish, spotted goatfish and garfish. FISHERMANS BEACH, LONG REEF This one's inside yet another aquatic reserve: Long Reef, which covers 76 hectares between Collaroy's rock pools and the Long Reef SLSC. Most of it features rocky shores and wild surf, but lovely, sandy, sheltered Fishermans Beach is an exception. Watch out for feather stars, sea stars, heart urchins and sea slugs (also known by the more elegant name nudibranchs). OAK PARK Oak Park is one of Sydney's largest marine sites with tons of diverse marine life to ogle in your goggles. It's also a perfect spot to start your journey if you're a bit green — you can just start in the tidal pools to warm up, then move into the sea. Divers say seahorses and turtles are frequently spotted here. And, if you've been around the underwater block a few times, Oak Park is phenomenal for scuba diving, too. SOUTH BONDI Ah, Bondi. Australia's most famous beach gets an honourable mention for being its iconic self — and because it has an aptly named spot on its south end: Flat Rock. Flat Rock is ideal for a wondrous day strapped into flippers. Though be careful, the sea must be fairly calm to snorkel here. You can check to see if it's diveable from Wilga Street, which is the best way to get down to the snorkel spot. And make sure you look for slight south-easterly swells, otherwise you want it almost dead calm. If not, you'll want to head somewhere else for your snorkeling adventure. WATTAMOLLA BEACH Wattamolla Beach is like something from your most picturesque, lagoon swimming, bushwalking, beach picnicking dreams. If the emerald-clear water isn't enough to get you jumping in the car and driving an hour south from Sydney, then the Royal National Park it lies in will. The water at this beach is so incredibly calm, it's a family favourite for snorkelling and liloing.
Lock in for summer, as Finely Tuned presents six high-end warehouse events at Carriageworks. Bringing together some of electronic music's biggest and brightest names, each event fuses industrial aesthetics, precision lighting and cutting-edge tunes. Held across multiple dates from Monday, December 29–Friday, January 16, 2026, Finely Tuned aspires to create a ritualised dance music fixture on Sydney's cultural calendar. Think London's Printworks, Manchester's The Warehouse Project or Berlin Atonal, where ambitious curation leads to larger-than-life club experiences. Headlining the opening event on December 29, British electronic icons Underworld serve up generation-defining anthems, while cult favourite Ross From Friends presents his club-pop project Bubble Love. Next, on January 2, French industrial artist I Hate Models brings frenetic energy, with support from Polish techno maximalist VTSS and emerging Scottish DJ Sim0ne. Meanwhile, on January 3, German house heavyweight Ben Böhmer will deliver his euphoric audiovisual show, joined by Melbourne's rising star Pretty Girl and a b2b set from PARIS and Juno Mamba. [caption id="attachment_1017760" align="alignnone" width="1920"] John Gorrigan[/caption] Looking ahead, essential Dutch DJ Chris Stussy hits Carriageworks on January 10, supported by a rousing b2b set from UK breakouts Josh Baker and Prospa. Then, January 16 sees Grammy-nominated house icon CamelPhat joined by melodic house star Samantha Loveridge and deep house selector OLIIV. Finally, rounding out THE WORKS' debut season on January 25, Ibiza mainstay Michael Bibi, performing on the back of huge shows at Glastonbury and Coachella. "We're very excited to bring this new curated event series to one of Eora's most exciting creative venues," says Finely Tuned founder Simon Beckingham. "THE WORKS takes inspiration from the globe's best electronic music spaces, combining a world-class lineup with an exceptional level of production to create a series of warehouse events unlike anything previously seen in Sydney."
If you're chronically online and/or partial to an Instagram photodump, you'll have noticed the quiet, yet decided, return of the vintage camera. Gen Z and millennials have been trawling Depop and eBay for point-and-shoots that bring back the joy (and chaos) of unfiltered photography, and those with more patience have rediscovered the magic of film. With the 24/7 convenience and technological sophistication of our pocket smartphones, this pull towards cumbersome (and often expensive) retro photography makes one thing clear — we're not looking for perfection, we want nostalgia, texture and fun. But as charming as those old cameras are, there's no avoiding the frustrations of outdated tech: short battery lives, low-resolution screens and the slow process of getting photos from an SD card to your library. Film, too, has its downsides — it's slower, pricier and less sustainable, and if you've ever experienced the heartbreak of a ruined roll, you'll know it's not always kind. Fujifilm's new X-T30 III promises the best of all worlds: the imperfection and spontaneity of early digital and film photography, paired with the reliability and ease of 2025 technology — and we got to test it out. [caption id="attachment_1037100" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The new Fujifilm X-T30 III in Silver.[/caption] Over the last few weeks, we swapped our phones for the X-T30 III — taking it to gigs, park hangs with friends and out for dinner — to see what it's like to shoot on a real camera again. The first thing we noticed was how different it feels to take photos without a phone. There's no rush to post, no automatic filters, no instant scroll. Just the act of noticing something, lifting the camera, and deciding what you want the photo to feel like. Learning simple things — such as how aperture affects depth and how exposure changes a mood — made us think more deliberately about what we were shooting. We started framing scenes with intention instead of snapping aimlessly. [caption id="attachment_1037071" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Shot on the Fujifilm X-T30 III.[/caption] And maybe best of all, we were more present. Without a phone in hand, we weren't bouncing between apps or notifications — we were actually in the moment, noticing the light, the colours, the details. Design-wise, the X-T30 III nails that balance between retro and modern. Compact but weighty, it feels like something from the early 00s — a brushed-metal body with tactile dials and a subtle vintage edge. It's intuitive enough for beginners but still gives you room to play. At just 378 grams, it's light enough to carry everywhere yet solid enough to feel serious. [caption id="attachment_1037070" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Shot on the Fujifilm X-T30 III.[/caption] Fujifilm has long been known for its colour science, and the X-T30 III feels like a love letter to that legacy. The new Film Simulation Dial, borrowed from Fujifilm's premium X Series models, makes it easy to switch between iconic looks — from the soft, creamy tones of 'Nostalgic Neg' to the crisp clarity of 'Reala Ace'. There are 20 film simulations in total, each with its own texture and tone, plus three customisable slots so you can save your own 'recipes' for different styles. It's like carrying a film lab in your pocket — but one that never runs out of rolls. With a 26.1-megapixel X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor and Fujifilm's latest X-Processor 5 engine, it's quick, sharp and reliable. Autofocus tracks everything from faces to fast-moving subjects, while the 6.2K video option and new 9:16 movie mode make it simple to capture both cinematic clips and vertical social content. It also features a built-in flash, tilting LCD screen and Wi-Fi connectivity for instant sharing or printing straight to Fujifilm's Instax Link printers. [caption id="attachment_1037072" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Shot on the Fujifilm X-T30 III.[/caption] And while shooting on the X-T30 III felt like a welcome break from our phones, it's still built for the world we live in. Through the Fujifilm Camera Remote app, photos transfer wirelessly to your phone in seconds — ready to post, send or edit on the go. You can even use your phone as a remote control, perfect for self-portraits or group shots when you want to be both in front of and behind the lens at once. We're no photography experts, and that's what made this camera such a pleasant surprise. It's genuinely beginner-friendly — from the one-touch Auto Mode lever that takes the guesswork out of exposure, to subject-detection autofocus that quietly does the heavy lifting. Once we started experimenting, we realised how much more intentional (and creative) our shooting became. Instead of solely focusing on the subject or landscape we were shooting, there was the ability to customise the feeling we were trying to capture — a little blur, deliberate overexposure, a hint of movement. [caption id="attachment_1037081" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Shot on the Fujifilm X-T30 III.[/caption] And maybe that's the real appeal of the X-T30 III: it makes you fall back in love with taking photos. It's not about chasing perfection — it's about slowing down and seeing everyday moments differently. Not unlike the deliberately B-roll shots peppered through an IG dump, shooting on a camera with this much versatility allows you to tell a whole story. We loved the Fujifilm X-T30 III for its ability to speak to the nostalgia of the film and digicam revival, but modern enough to keep up with today's tech and creative demands. It delivers film-style warmth and depth straight out of camera, while staying light, fast and intuitive enough for spontaneous shooting. [caption id="attachment_1037080" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Shot on the Fujifilm X-T30 III.[/caption] For casual photographers or creative explorers, it's the perfect in-between: accessible without being basic, aesthetic without being gimmicky, and compact enough to live in your tote or handbag. In short, it might just replace your digi cam, your film camera — and (hopefully) your phone. The brand new Fujifilm X-T30 III will be available from late November 2025. Find out more. Images: Supplied | Eliza Campbell, shot on the Fujifilm X-T30 III.
Aunty Donna have been busy over the past few years. Since 2020, they've brought both Aunty Donna's Big Ol' House of Fun and Aunty Donna's Coffee Cafe to the small screen. They've played corpses in Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves, and also dropped a $30 bottle of wine that's literally called $30 Bottle of Wine, too. The Australian comedy troupe embarked upon a world tour in 2023 as well, selling 90,000-plus tickets. If you're keen to see Mark Samual Bonanno, Broden Kelly and Zachary Ruane live, your next chance arrives in 2025. Aunty Donna have announced that they're hitting the stage again, not only in Australia and New Zealand, but also in the UK, Ireland, the USA and Canada. So far, only dates for the first four parts of the world have been locked in, kicking off in August in Hobart, then hopping to Brisbane, Sydney, Wellington, Christchurch, Auckland and Dublin before September is out. October brings gigs in the United Kingdom, while Adelaide, Perth and Melbourne get their turn in December. Audiences will enjoy the Drem experience, with Aunty Donna unveiling their brand-new live sketch show. Will everything be a drum again? Will morning brown get a tribute? How much room should you leave for Christmas pud? If you're instantly thinking about these questions, you're clearly already a fan. In the trailer for the tour, Bonanno, Kelly and Ruane are promising big things in their comedic usual way. "In 2025, Aunty Donna will be touring the greatest live comedy show ever seen by human beings," the trailer advises. "You have asked 'is it funny?'," it continues. "Leading experts in the field have made it perfectly clear that it is the best comedy show ever made." [caption id="attachment_866548" align="alignnone" width="1920"] ABC[/caption] In a statement announcing the tour, Kelly builds upon that sentiment. "We're very excited to show Drem to the world. Performing live is what we do best and we can't wait to bring this show out to everyone," he says. "It's the best thing we've ever made and it's the best thing that anyone in the world will see. It's better than anything anyone else has ever done or seen." Check out the trailer for Aunty Donna's Drem tour below — and the full Down Under tour dates, too: Aunty Donna's Drem Tour 2025 Dates Friday, August 22–Saturday, August 23 — Odeon Theatre, Hobart Monday, August 25–Thursday, August 28 — Fortitude Music Hall, Brisbane Monday, September 1–Thursday, September 4 — Enmore Theatre, Sydney Tuesday, September 9 — Opera House, Wellington Thursday, September 11 — James Hay Theatre, Christchurch Saturday, September 13 — Kiri Te Kanawa Theatre, Auckland Monday, December 1–Tuesday, December 2 — Thebarton Theatre, Adelaide Thursday, December 4–Friday, December 5 — Regal Theatre, Perth Friday, December 12–Sunday, December 14 and Wednesday, December 17–Thursday, December 18 — Palais Theatre, Melbourne [caption id="attachment_791048" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Netflix[/caption] Aunty Donna's Drem tour kicks off Down Under in August 2025. For further information and tickets, head to the Aunty Donna website.
Choosing the best cafes in Sydney is never an easy feat. The city is full of great casual dining spots and pro-caffeine haunts where you can get perfectly brewed coffee and brunch that goes well beyond the classic avo on toast. We are certainly giving Melbourne — the self-proclaimed home of cafe culture — a run for its money. Here, you'll find the 20 best Sydney cafes, as voted by our editors and writers, that any food lover should consider visiting. Read on to discover some new spots and see if your favourite has made the cut. Recommended reads: The Best Bakeries in Sydney The Best Restaurants in Sydney The Best Spots for a Boozy Bottomless Brunch in Sydney The Best Coffee Shops in Sydney's CBD The Best Breakfast in Sydney
When it comes to the best restaurants in Sydney, top-tier talent abounds. We may be most famous for our beaches and our bridges, but food may just be what we do best. This food-obsessed city of ours has a swag of standout offerings to suit whatever niche cravings you've got going on. But there are some spots that simply reign supreme; places where the food packs a punch, the vibe is never not on point and you fall in love a little more each time you visit. Here, we've rounded up our 20 picks for the cream of the crop — the best restaurants in Sydney. From new players reinventing Sydney's perspective on certain cuisine to long-standing spots that are just as exciting as the day they opened; these are the city's must-visit venues for any discerning food aficionado. Feast on. Recommended reads: The Best Cafes in Sydney The Best Bars in Sydney The Best Wine Bars in Sydney The Best Pubs in Sydney
Draped in jewel tones, with antique lighting sconces, Victorian wallpaper and exposed brick, this corner bar's cosy, speakeasy vibes perfectly match the spirit of its signature drink – the negroni. There are plenty of places in Sydney where you can find a damn decent version of this ever-popular cocktail, but the Frankie team raises the bar with a new dimension of craftsmanship, making everything they serve in-house, from its gin and other base liquors to its syrups and cordials, and most importantly, its vermouth. Owner Sam Overton spent "over a year, thousands of dollars and countless hours" perfecting his sweet and dry vermouth recipes. The result? A negroni like no other — and with 16 variations of the classic cocktail available on the menu, you can be sure to find one to suit every taste. Opt for the OG classic or branch out with one of the bar's more unconventional creations like the strawberry sour and the Mexican negroni — a spicy spin with margarita energy. And we can't forget the internet favourite – the Sbagliato (with prosecco). If you're struck with choice paralysis, Frankie's tasting flight gives you the opportunity to explore the variety of flavours offered by its homemade ingredients. Though the negroni is the star of the show, be sure to show the bar's list of 16 alternative cocktails some well-deserved love. Whether you're after something familiar or looking to try something new, Frankie's cocktail list has you covered. A classic Old Fashioned might be your go-to or why not choose from the menu's four fruity margarita variations. For something off the beaten path, consider the Penicillin or the Porn Star martini. And like everything else at Frankie's, the wine list is carefully crafted, filled with natural drops selected to pair beautifully with the bar menu. Eats and sweets are as plentiful and well-made as Frankie's cocktails, with the stand out being the house-made gnocchi – available for dinner or dessert (yes, you read that correctly). A variety of classic bar bites like garlic bread, bruschetta and olives are also on hand for peckish punters, but if you're looking for something more substantial, try the mushroom truffle arancini, the tomato carpaccio, or the stand out vodka beans on toast. Sydney's small bar scene is one of the best in the world, but behind this reputation is a collective of tireless bartenders pushing the envelope of what a bar can and should be. "Negronis have been my favourite drink for as long as I can remember," says Overton. "Three years ago, I set out to create the tastiest vermouth possible, and I'm proud to say I did it. You won't find a negroni like Frankie's anywhere else".
It's the first film from Andrea Arnold in almost a decade, since 2016's Cannes Jury Prize-winning American Honey. It boasts Barry Keoghan in his first big-screen role since Saltburn made him a megastar. ("He could pretty much have done anything he wanted and he stuck with my small, low-budget film, so that's pretty spectacular," Arnold tells Concrete Playground.) It gives Franz Rogowski another exceptional part for his ever-growing resume (see also: Victoria, Happy End, Transit, A Hidden Life, Undine, Great Freedom and Passages). It unearths a stellar new talent in British Independent Film Award Breakthrough Performance-nominee and first-time actor Nykiya Adams. It sports a soundtrack filled with British sing-alongs, complete with a nod to its most-famous face's film past worked in among Blur's 'The Universal', The Verve's 'Lucky Man' and Coldplay's 'Yellow'. Bird is worth watching for each of these reasons alone — as well as for Arnold's blazing empathy, a hallmark of her work since her Oscar-winning short film days, and also the brilliant naturalism that always beams through in the cinematography by her regular collaborator Robbie Ryan (a two-time Academy Award-nominee for The Favourite and Poor Things). It's also a must-see for letting audiences discover how Arnold has spun a tender and moving coming-of-age fable that blends social realism with magical realism from a unique starting point: "it was an image of a naked tall man with a long penis standing on a tall building at night in the mist," she advises. "I think it's a metaphor." Bird began the same way that Andrea Arnold's work always does: with a distinctive picture. While every film, be it a short, feature or documentary, trades in visuals, of course, the writer/director's creative process for each of her projects commences with an image that comes to her, and that she's then driven to unlock. Such was her kick-off point when she started penning a movie that now sits beside Red Road, Fish Tank and Wuthering Heights on her resume as well — plus episodes of Transparent and I Love Dick, the entire second season of Big Little Lies and heartbreaking doco Cow. Rogowski portrays the titular character, who is indeed sighted on a rooftop. Adams is Bailey, the movie's 12-year-old protagonist. Keoghan plays Bug, her single dad, who she resides with in a north Kent squat — also with her brother Hunter (fellow first-timer Jason Buda) — and whose new engagement shatters Bailey's status quo. Arnold layers Bird with journeys and searches to belong. It's true for the girl at the feature's centre, who feels like the already-chaotic existence that she's living with Bug and Hunter is crumbling. It's accurate of Bird, the mysterious stranger on a quest that's tied to his past, too. Bug's impending nuptials, Hunter's own romantic situation: it applies to them also, as it frequently has to other characters across the helmer's filmography. Chatting with us in 2016, American Honey star Riley Keough described that picture as "like an experience, rather than like a film" and "really getting to that sort of place in people's souls"; again, that applies across every Arnold project. In her Oscar-awarded short Wasp, Arnold's focus is a single mother trying to start a new relationship. Red Road follows a CCTV operator who spots someone that she knows on surveillance footage, Fish Tank charts the change in a 15-year-old's life when her mum begins seeing a new boyfriend, Wuthering Heights obviously adapts Emily Brontë's gothic great about Catherine and Heathcliff, and American Honey heads on a US road trip. A female dairy cow earns the filmmaker's attention in Cow. Each unfurls a different narrative, even if dysfunctional families and growing up are familiar themes. "None of the stories are directly connected, but I'm quite interested in those kind of families, I guess," Arnold notes. "Maybe because my own family was quite sort of chaotic as a child." Her work is linked by a sentiment that's summed up wonderfully in an unforgettable line in Bird, too: "no one's no one". That piece of dialogue was pivotal for the director. Arnold is adamant about that fact, as she was about ensuring that the line made it into Bird. As she keeps demonstrating a devastatingly evocative and effective knack for seeing working-class reality with clear eyes while equally spying the world's beauty wherever her characters can snatch it, Arnold likes to let her films speak for themselves rather than unpacking their meaning — "I really believe in cinema being something that you give to the audience to have their own experience with," she says; "you want the audience to go to the bar afterwards and argue about what they think it meant, 'I think it meant this' or 'I think it meant that', 'no, no, what about that scene, because that scene means that'" — but she's aware of how crucial those four words are. Bird's evolution from that first image of a man on a building, delving into magical realism, casting Keoghan, discovering Adams, guiding naturalistic performances out of her actors, her approach to the film's soundtrack, making three-dimensional movies about the working class: we also spoke with Arnold about all of the above. On How Bird Evolved From Arnold's First Vision of a Man on a Rooftop in the Mist "Every time I write, I have an image that I then treat like a puzzle. It's like a mystery. The image is a mystery. Who's the man? Why is he naked? Why is he in mist? Why is he standing on a building? Is someone looking at him? Is he an alien? How old is he? The image encourages me to ask lots of questions, so it becomes a puzzle that I then have to solve. And usually what happens is, I know that if the image really keeps annoying me, like it keeps coming into my head, that it's something I need to explore. So I go off and I start making notes, and I start thinking about what are the answers to some of the questions, and that starts me thinking about scenes and possible other images and characters. And then I just build it from there, really. Which takes years sometimes. Not like every day, but it doesn't always make sense straight away, and I start digging around and 'yeah, that makes sense' and 'that doesn't make sense'. I keep — I think I started Bird years ago, five years ago or something, but then I did Cow and did other things, and so I came back to it. If I'd made it straight away five years ago, I think it would be a completely film to the one I made just now, actually. I think it would have been an interesting, different film. Because in five years, you change and you grow, and you do other things and your ideas change. So it depends on the kind of person I am at the time — and actually, interestingly I wasn't sure I should do it. Because I felt like somehow, the image, although I started with the image, that maybe I didn't need to really go there. But then I just kept going and did. And then I think some of the magical realism came out of that because I was pushing the idea more than I perhaps would have done. Maybe five years ago, there would have been no magical realism, but now there is." On Bird's Flight Into Magical Realism "It came naturally out of the process of writing. I didn't have any other films in mind. I love films like Pan's Labyrinth, for example. I think that's an amazing film, but it's not a film that I ever thought was anything like my films or anything to with me. When I saw that film, which I loved, I never thought 'oh, yeah, that I'm going to do that' or 'that's something to do with me' — I loved it for what it was, for its own creation. I never even thought about it. When I started writing, it just started coming naturally — the storytelling, my imagination just went there. So I just let it. It was liberating. I thought 'well, it's a film, I can make anything happen'. It's like magic, isn't it? You can do what you like. To me, it would seem like a natural progression from what I already do. Because I think, all the nature things I film, to me they're magical anyway. If you put a camera on something like a dragonfly, for example, that's about as alien and as magical as you can get. If you look at anything that we, all these things we have naturally in our lives, that are around — look at a worm. What an amazing thing a worm is, right. If you want look at a worm, film a worm and study it, you'd be thinking 'wow, that's like an alien. That's a strange thing. Does it move? How does it work? How does it live?'. I find all the things around us magical anyway. I literally find them fascinating. I find a snail, for example — you just have to look at those things and it's magical anyway. So to me, what I did just didn't seem so weird. It didn't seem so strange to me. It felt normal. It felt like an extension and natural progression of what I'd already done." On the Importance of the "No One's No One" Line — and How It Also Echoes Across Arnold's Other Work "That line just came while I was writing and I just thought 'oh god, that just sums up everything I care about. That just sums up absolutely everything'. And I was absolutely adamant. Because sometimes when you're filming scenes — my scripts end up being quite layered, I think, and I lose so much from my scripts when we film, because filming is so clunky compared with when you do layers in a scene. I might layer a scene with all sorts of things, and of course you film it and sometimes it's like driving a tank across your scenes. It's hard to achieve some of the subtleties that I put in my in my script. Sometimes I think 'maybe I should just write, because then I can have all the things that I want in there'. So often I'm improvising — or not, no I'm not improvising, I'm allowing things from the script, I let them go because I just have to, because the situation, the timing. Sometimes they have lots of non-actors, they don't remember a line or they don't always say it like it is. So often, the scene becomes sort of an echo of what I wrote, but not totally what I wrote. But that line, I was absolutely adamant that we didn't lose it. I was like 'it doesn't matter what'. And we had to hurry in that situation, because we didn't have much time to film in the station and we had some other issues that day. So we ended up with very little time to film on the station and outside the station, but I was absolutely like 'we're putting the camera there and we're going to get that line, that's got to be there'. It's my favourite line. And I think you're right, thank you for spotting that — it is something that I really care about and I think probably is across my work, and that is something I believe." On Casting Barry Keoghan as Bug "My casting comrade Lucy Pardee, who I work with — who's an amazing woman and who I've worked with for years — she knows me really well. She knows my worlds really well. She completely understands them. I've known her for many years. And she thinks about people she thinks will fit in my world. She mentioned him very early on, like ages before Banshees came out. And I met him just before The Banshees of Inisherin came out. And I hadn't seen him very much, actually, but she sent me a picture of him and I was like 'wow, I love the way he looks' — and he looked like he could fit straight in. Then I saw him in a couple of things, just small roles in things, and then I went to meet him. I don't always need to see them in another film necessarily. I like meeting people. And I'll always go on meeting. I feel like that's the genuine feeling that you get, from meeting a person. And I met him — he came down from Scotland when I was in London, and we had a meeting, and I just loved him the minute I met him. I think I offered it, we offered it, to him the next day. But that was quite a long time before we started — but I never ever faltered. I don't think I met anyone else for Bug, actually. I think I just met him and I was like 'yeah, totally'. But that's thanks to Lucy because she just knows me so well, so she picks people that she knows what I'm going to respond to and who feel like they go in my world. And then Banshees came out, of course, and I went to see it, and I just loved him in that. He was so fantastic in that. I was like 'yeah, we definitely made the right choice, without a doubt'. But I'd cast him before that came out so. And then, of course, he was in Saltburn. And then he went stratospheric. I actually thought 'he's never going to stay with our film', because he could do anything he wants now. But he did. So that was beautiful. He stuck with us." On Knowing That Adams, Who Only Auditioned to Get Out of a Class at School, Was the Film's Bailey "The first audition was with Lucy, the casting director, and then Lucy took her along to another — when she saw her, she brought her along to meet me after. So when I met her, she just came on a Saturday. We do the auditions up near where everybody lives, so they don't have to travel very far. So we were up in the area, and she came on that Saturday. I think she'd been playing football that day. She does football and stuff. She's very physical, very sporty. I think she did it to get out of a design and technology class, didn't she? I think that's the story. I think I heard her say that the other day — I didn't know that until I heard her say that. She did the audition more to get out of a lesson than she did because she wanted to be an actor. She just did it to get out of something. So I think even, I don't know when she came to see me, I'm not sure that she was still that not sure about this thing. I think I remember her walking in like 'yeah, what is, what is this thing?'. But I remember waking up when I saw her. I felt like she had a presence. And that I really took note of, I kind of thought 'oh, this this kid has got a presence'. It wasn't quite the sort of the kid that I'd written or been looking for, exactly. She was different. But I noted her and she woke me up, and I think you've got to pay attention to those feelings. That never left me, so she ended being the Bailey." On Guiding Naturalistic Performances Out of Bird's Cast "I shoot chronologically, which I think is a huge thing, and I particularly love it. I do that mostly for the people who haven't acted before, because I think it gives them some sense of where they are, and then they don't have to jump in and out of the chronology — they're not having to do a scene from the end and then a scene from the beginning. It gives them some sense of their journey. Then, because I do that, I do that with all the actors as well, of course — and then I don't show them the whole script. I give them scenes bit by bit. And then I think the actual day-to-day directing is, for me, every person I'm working with is an individual and your relationship then is an individual relationship — and different actors, different people who haven't acted before, need you or there's different ways in which you work with each of them. So there's not one way, I don't think, that I work with anybody. But I try to have relationships with everybody with, and for that to be like a living, growing, evolving thing that is something that we do as we go along." On the Use of British Anthems in the Soundtrack "Every character, I make a playlist for. So that was on Bug's playlist, these sort of very blokey anthems. I mean, 'Yellow' is a song that I absolutely love anyway. I try, all the songs I use, I try, even though the character's songs, I still want them to be songs I love — and I usually don't pick any song that I don't love. Most songs in my films, I love. And even if they're particular character songs, I still want to love them. So I try to find songs that I love for every character. So 'Yellow' is, I think, a fantastic song and. And 'The Universal' is a fantastic song. And 'Lucky Man'. They're all on Bug's playlist. Bug had that kind of playlist, sort of anthems, because I think he likes to sing and he likes to be loud, and he likes to sing these songs. He knows all the words. Then I made playlists for everyone else. I made a playlist for Bailey, but her music got drowned out by Bug's — every time I tried to have a song that was Bailey's song, it didn't happen because she's in the house and Bug takes over. So that happened naturally, actually. That wasn't an intention. I didn't mean for that to happen, but it did happen. And actually now, I realise it happened naturally because of the character and because of the way the world was. So that was something that was sort of a truth that happened, even though I planned something different — the truth came out. And then what happened is because we had Burial do some of the soundtrack, and I've never worked with someone doing a soundtrack before, so this was a new experience for me — but his music became more like Bailey's internal world. So she had her own music, but it wasn't songs. It wasn't songs that she would have on a playlist. It was more her internal world." On Making Three-Dimensional Films About the Working Class "I grew up in a working-class family and in that kind of area, so I very much feel that's something I very much understand and feel deeply connected to. So I don't have any judgment of anybody. I don't have that in my bones. So I think that's just going to come out in what I do. I don't have any sort of — I don't need to do anything because that's just how I feel. But I think like that about everybody. I think we should all respect and be kind and caring towards each other. I feel the world doesn't — I feel like that about everybody. I try not to judge anyone when I first meet anyone, or to judge anything or anybody. I try not to. I guess, of course, we probably all do on some level, but I try not to. And I just don't have that in my bones, so it's not going to be there in the film, I don't think. I don't think I'm making political — it's not a political gesture, not really. It's more about the people, I think. And it's more about trying to show people in three-dimensional ways. It's a privilege for someone like me who comes from that working-class background to be a filmmaker. What a privilege. What an amazing place I'm in that I've come from a working-class background, but here I am making films — what an amazing thing that is. And to me, I see that as quite a responsibility. And it's almost I feel like I need to really try to present it — I mean, obviously I'm making a film from my point of view, and that I'm not trying to make a wide political gesture, I'm just trying to make one from my point of view, in a way I understand, and that's all I try to do. I don't try to pretend I know everything, or I have great, sweeping view — obviously I wish the world was a more equal, fairer place for people. And there's plenty of wealth in the world to go around, isn't there? I'd like it that people weren't struggling to eat or to have somewhere to live. Originally in the film, I put the family — because of lockdown here and COVID, nobody went to work, and London at the moment has masses and masses of buildings, it has sprouted up like some sort of Blade Runner futuristic thing. And all the people that didn't go to their offices every day didn't want to go back into the offices. And I thought 'oh, there's all of these empty buildings now, all of these big office blocks, empty — why don't put all of the people that don't have homes there? There's so many people without homes. The homeless situation, it seems to be getting worse in every single country. When I go to America, they say the homeless thing is incredibly awful there. There are tent cities, and there are avenues and streets full of people living in tents and cars. I'm thinking 'but you've got all these empty buildings. You've got all of these office blocks that no one's working in. Why don't we just put everybody in there?'. So originally in the film, I put the family them in there. But we couldn't find a building like that to film in, so we didn't end up filming there. But the intention was there. My heart was there. So there's all these little things that I do care about that I put in the film, but I wouldn't say it's a big, sweeping political gesture. It's more about the people, more about trying to tell a small world in a way that I see as being true, as true to me. It's my truth — I'm not saying it's everyone's truth or a universal truth, it's just a truthful thing for me. There's things I care about in the film always. Everything I care about. But I would say I'm not trying to make a massive statement." Bird opened in cinemas Down Under on Thursday, February 20, 2025. Images: Robbie Ryan / Atsushi Nishijima.
For those travelling to and from Sydney's eastern suburbs, hefty wait times could soon be a thing of the past, thanks to a stack of new Bondi bus services. It was announced in August that route 333 —travelling North Bondi to City via Bondi Junction — will become a high frequency service from September 23, with passengers being able to pretty much turn up and go. Additional services will see buses running every three minutes between Bondi Beach and Circular Quay during peak times, making it one of the country's most frequent transport services. Outside of weekday peak hours, the wait times for 333 buses will still be manageable, with services running every six minutes during the day and every ten minutes at night, seven days a week. A new overnight 333N bus — which will run from 11pm–6am, and replace the current 380 — will run all stops between the CBD and North Bondi. During peak hour, the 333 bus will no longer travel to Dover Heights, terminating at North Bondi instead, with those wanting to get to Dover Heights able to change to routes 323 or 380. [caption id="attachment_682918" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Current 333 bus route, via Transport NSW[/caption] The move is expected to allow for thousands more passengers to use the popular route each week — a win both for weekday commuters and anyone heading beachside on the weekends. Updated: September 27, 2018.
Many local hospitality venues excel at one thing in particular. Whether they pour the best wine or serve a cold brew that'll have you buzzing for a week, most of these venues focus on one specialty during a particular part of the day. For the Japanese café Kahii, located on Kent Street in Sydney, however, flexibility and variety are what keep the spark alive. "Adding a night offering gave the venue a whole new life," says Kahii's director, Matthew Wong. Open from 8am until 3:30pm Monday to Friday, and re-opening from 5pm 'til 12am Tuesday to Saturday, Kahii serves freshly brewed coffee by day and cocktails by renowned mixologist Fumiaki (with a curated bar snack menu from Kuro's Executive Chef, Taka Teramoto) by night. "Flexibility isn't just a survival tactic — it's a growth mindset," Wong tells Concrete Playground. When Kahii opened in 2016, it was purely a day-trade cafe inspired by the Japanese tea room, kissaten. "Quiet, minimal, refined". After the venue survived the pandemic (and subsequent lockdowns and venue regulations that gutted the city as a whole), Kahii wanted to do something "exciting" again. "Licensing conditions had relaxed, and we saw the opportunity to introduce a tea and coffee-inspired cocktail program that reflected our identity while giving people something unique in the city," Wong adds. "It was both strategic and personal — a natural extension of who we are and what we enjoy." Pros of Flexibility According to Wong, the advantages of running a business that opens at different times of the day are plentiful. "It creates diversity—not just in revenue, but in the types of experiences we offer and the people we attract." "During the day, we serve office workers, creatives, and locals grabbing their daily coffee or matcha. At night, the crowd shifts to people seeking somewhere intimate to unwind with a drink and a bite." Wong also notes that increasingly, regulars are starting and ending their day at the cafe. "There's crossover, too." In addition to attracting a diverse range of patrons, from a business standpoint, Kahii is maximising the value of a "sunk cost"—rent. "Activating the space in the evening was a strategic way to make full use of it." Being open throughout the day also creates a buffer from trade volatility. "Things like school holidays, transport disruptions, and weather don't hit quite as hard when we have more than one audience," Wong adds. How to Adapt Your Business to Two Offerings If you want to expand your hospitality business beyond its current offerings, Wong recommends starting with what you love. Then, build systems that support flexibility. "If you're transitioning from day to night, make sure the space is designed to shift moods—lighting, music, staff training, and menus all need to adapt seamlessly." He also suggests thinking about operational flow. From bookings, orders, payments, and prep change, how will you widen your service? "The clearer your identity and the smoother your systems, the more your guests will feel like it's all part of one cohesive experience—not two separate businesses," Wong explains. Tools like Square can help build upon this flow. Kahii uses Square for POS during the day and Square for Restaurants at night. The platform handles everything from payments to open orders and integrates with booking platforms. As he explains, "[Square] makes a huge difference to our workflow, especially as we transition between different trade periods and customer expectations." Kill Your Darlings Running a hospitality business comes with a lot of decision-making. Part of this means making calls that impact your day-to-day. "There were offerings we loved but had to let go of—sometimes because they didn't resonate with guests, other times because they were operationally clunky," says Wong. One of the biggest lessons for Kahii has been knowing when to separate personal attachment from business performance, which Wong notes is never easy, but often necessary. "Looking back, every time we've made that call, it's created room for something better. Something that fits the brand, the customer, and the moment we're in." If Wong could give any advice to other adventurous business owners in the same position, it would be to be honest about what's not working. Be open to new formats, offerings, or even the times of day you operate. And most importantly, don't be afraid to pivot with purpose. "Talk to your team. Listen to your customers. Look at the data. Sometimes the smallest insights, like consistent feedback on a menu item or noticing a dip in trade at a certain time, can spark the biggest changes." Square empowers local businesses to thrive by making it easier to run, manage, and grow their operations. Find out how Square can help your business grow. Images: Kahii
If you're a perennial re-watcher of the all-timer Christmas classic Love Actually?, you may or may not already be aware of the musical stage adaptation that's getting ready to hit Australia's east coast. After a swathe of nationwide auditions, the production has announced not one but three casts of performers for shows in NSW, VIC and QLD. They've broken past the typical range of stage veterans and hired everything from impressionists and stand-up comedians to musical veterans and internationally touring artists — the producers call it "pure festive chaos". The Sydney cast includes Ellis Dolan (The Rocky Horror Show 50th Anniversary Tour, School of Rock), Tommy James Green (The Fox and the Hunter, Scratch), Hamish Pickering (Hello, Asteroid), Gracie Rowland (Josephine Wants to Dance), Bash Nelson (Once on This Island) and Brittany Morton (Into the Woods). In Melbourne, audiences will see Mitchell Groves (Cruel Intentions: The '90s Musical), Belinda Jenkin (Friends! The Musical Parody), Jeremy Harland (A Zoom Group Project: The Musical), Ian Andrew (Midnight: The Cinderella Musical), Sophie Loughran (50 Shades of Grey — The Musical Parody), and Massimo Zuccara (Opera Australia's West Side Story). Brisbane's production features Dylan Hodge (Legally Blonde The Musical), William Kasper (Rate of Decay), Benjamin Hambley (Godspell), Nicole Kaminski (Urinetown), Stephanie Beza (Chicago), and multi-award-winning Gold Coast actor Ashton Simpson (Romeo & Juliet). "This show is like Christmas dinner after a few too many champagnes — loud, ridiculous, and way too much fun," said Associate Producer Ashley Tickell. The show follows nine quirky couples as they chase love across London, sending up the cult 2003 rom-com with tongue-in-cheek songs such as "He's The Prime Minister of Rom Coms" and "Keira Knightley Actually". Written by the creators of Friends! The Musical Parody, the production promises a night of high-energy laughs for audiences aged 15 and up. Love Actually? The Musical Parody first premiered in Australia in 2024 to rave reviews, hailed as "fabulously hilarious and laugh out loud entertainment" (Musicals Reviewed) and "a surefire way to get into the festive spirit" (Toorak Times). With its cheeky humour, catchy songs, and irreverent take on one of the most beloved Christmas films of all time, the show promises to be the ultimate untraditional holiday tradition. As Tickell puts it: "Whether you love Love Actually, love to hate it, or have never even seen it, you will actually love this musical." 'Love Actually? The Musical Parody' will play at Sydney's Darling Quarter Theatre from November 27 to December 23, followed by Melbourne's Athenaeum Theatre from December 5–23 and Brisbane Showgrounds from December 11-21. Tickets start at $69 via loveactuallymusicalparody.com.
Much-loved North Shore bistro Loulou has landed across the harbour with a stylish new outpost set above Martin Place Metro. The latest opening from fast-growing hospitality group Etymon (The Charles, Poetica) exudes the same relaxed elegance as the Milsons Point original, this time tailored to the pace and polish of a CBD crowd. Spread across two levels with seating for 175, the expansive new venue — located next door to grab-and-go sibling Petit Loulou — balances classic bistro charm with modern polish. Think: smartly upholstered banquettes, stone, timber and cork textures, and a shimmering silver ceiling downstairs that nods to the slicker pace of the city. Designed by Darlinghurst studio Tom Mark Henry, the space easily transitions from a breezy, sun-washed dining room by day to a moody boîte by night across three distinct areas: an upstairs oyster and wine bar anchored by a striking marble bar, a more intimate dining room below, and streetside tables perfect for people-watching with a glass of wine in hand. [caption id="attachment_1014834" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Steven Woodburn[/caption] The all-day menu stays true to Loulou's brand of refined yet approachable French fare. The CBD spot opens from 7am on weekdays, meaning early risers can drop in for the likes of caramelised brioche with berries and fromage blanc or sourdough crumpet topped with chèvre and avocado — ideal for a bloody mary-backed breakfast meeting. Lunch and dinner are centred around bistro staples and Loulou favourites like fruits de mer, John Dory in sauce champagne and steak frites with a three-day pepper sauce. A new addition, the Sandwich Américain — a steak frites baguette served exclusively at lunch — takes care of any cravings on the go. The drinks program is equally sharp. Alongside a tight cocktail list — which includes lesser-seen classics like the grasshopper and ramos gin fizz — there's a 350-strong wine list with a strong French focus that straddles the fence between adventurous and accessible, with a nice spread available by the glass and a handful by the half-bottle, too. The after-work crowd is looked after with a dedicated happy hour, L'Apéro, from 4–7pm. Stop by for $2 oysters and escargots, mini martinis and Loulou's signature kir royale for $13 and $18 cheeseburgers with frites. [caption id="attachment_1014828" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Steven Woodburn[/caption] Top images: Steven Woodburn.
Scroll any FYP in the year 2025 and you'll see run clubs and coffee raves galore. As Gen Z emerges from the pandemic armed with their hobbies and strict morning wellness routines, it's easy to lament the "death" of nightlife. @bree.active Sober rave 🤌🏽 #runclub #melbourne #lskd #coffeerave #caferave #soberrave #coffeeparty #coffee #run ♬ No Broke Boys - Disco Lines & Tinashe As someone who ran their first half-marathon post-Melbourne lockdowns, I get it. When the world feels increasingly out of control, choosing to spend time on healthy habits and getting out in the daylight feels like an antidote. It's not just Gen Z who are getting involved with these clubs; brands are also joining the trend. The cult Surry Hills cafe, A.P. Bakery, hosts a run club on select Sundays, and Onair in Cremorne serves both iced coffees and DJ sets every weekend. [caption id="attachment_996531" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Onair[/caption] The Visa Vibe Economy report, commissioned by Visa and conducted by McCrindle, shows that, despite Gen Z choosing cold brews over cocktails, the night-time economy is still strong — and young people in fact are leading the charge. According to the report, 32 percent of Australians consider night-time socialising either "extremely" or "very" important. Younger generations in particular value it for new experiences and social connections. Here's the cold, hard proof that it's not the last call for nightlife in Australia. Where are People Getting Out the Most? The Visa Australia Night-time Economy Index 2025, a new in-depth analysis measuring data such as spending, vibrancy, and venues open after dark, crowned Melbourne as the number one night-time hotspot in the country. Between its laneway bars, world-class restaurants, and sports and entertainment events, Melburnians are getting out of the house after dark the most frequently. [caption id="attachment_922915" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Her Bar, Melbourne[/caption] New South Wales, however, is rapidly catching up. Sydney's CBD outperformed Melbourne in terms of spending at night, but Melbourne took the top spot due to its night-time workers and merchants. Essentially, Melburnians are working late, with more inner-city haunts open longer than their Sydney counterparts. Sydney and its surrounding metro areas accounted for 12 of the top 20 night-time precincts in the country, proving that the after-dark economy may slowly but surely be recovering from the lockout laws. [caption id="attachment_1018911" align="alignleft" width="1920"] SXSW Sydney[/caption] According to the index, Canberra is the highest-ranked place outside the Sydney and Melbourne metro areas for evening spending. This is thanks to strong spending by tourists, people tapping their Visas after dark, and the fast growth in the number of restaurants open in the evening. A large percentage of Canberra's population is also young people and uni students aged 20-29, proving that Gen Z are helping to boost the economy with their socialising. That said, it wasn't just capital cities leading the charge. The regional university town of Newcastle, nearby Lake Macquarie, and the party town of the Gold Coast also made the top 20 list. Due to shift workers in industries like logistics and mining, rural areas, including Tasmania's South East, the Queensland Outback, the Northern Territory Outback and Warrnambool, had some of the highest night-time spending per active card. Why Are People Heading Out? We know, thanks to Visa's data, that Australians are still spending money after dark, but what are they doing? According to the Visa Vibe Economy report, dining out is the most popular night-time activity for a huge 76 percent of Australians. Over half of the people surveyed are also looking for night markets and festivals. [caption id="attachment_1014951" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Bessie's Restaurant[/caption] Despite what your FYP is telling you, the kids are alright. Gen Z is the most active demographic after dark, with 73 percent going out once or more per week (an average of 9.4 nights per month). Half of the surveyed generation also believes that nights offer more new experiences than the daytime, and 45 percent of Gen Z shared that going out after dark made them feel more connected to others than during the day. The Sober Curious Trend The data says that, despite our reputation as early risers and run club fanatics, Australians still try to find balance and head out after dark for a restaurant or festival experience. One thing our FYPs have right, though? We actually are drinking less. Only nine percent of Australians surveyed believe that alcohol availability when heading out for the night is extremely important. [caption id="attachment_1010146" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Katje-Ford[/caption] With Gen Z's "sober curious" attitude to alcohol, it seems that going out for a meal with friends is higher on the list for young Australians than hitting the clubs all night. Given Gen Z came of age during Sydney's lockout laws and the COVID pandemic, it's no surprise that the healthy habits of run clubs and pre-work coffee rave meet-ups are popular at the moment. The data has found, however, that Gen Z aren't resigned to their couches every Saturday night. Turns out, it's all about finding the balance. Discover the vibe near you. Lead image: Form Cafe Brisbane
The Southern Highlands may be just a 90-minute drive southwest of Sydney, but its string of villages, idyllic landscape and impressive producers will have you forgetting all about city life. Here, you can stay in a 19th-century estate, taste locally produced wine and whisky, peruse a whole heap of art and feast at a hatted restaurant — all in just one weekend. And to help you get the most out of your trip to the Southern Highlands, we've put together a guide to the best places to eat, drink, play and stay. Grab your partner or some mates, base yourself in the lovely little town of Bowral for a few nights and start exploring. [caption id="attachment_770250" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Bendooley Estate via Destination NSW[/caption] EAT AND DRINK Every weekend away should involve a good brunch, and Bowral offers just that in the form of The Press Shop. Part printing workshop and part cafe, the diner showcases Southern Highlands produce at its best with its farm-to-fork mentality. The cafe also offers one fine cuppa — though coffee-fiends may want to save their caffeine intake for Bowral's boutique roastery Rush. At some point during the weekend, you'll need to make tracks to Bendooley Estate, which is on our list of ten awesome NSW cellar doors. But the 200-acre property doesn't just offer a cellar door — it's also home to a luxe restaurant, an alfresco cafe and an outpost of the much loved Berkelouw bookshop, with thousands of new, secondhand and rare titles. You can also expect stunning views across the vineyard and, of course, some fine regional wine. [caption id="attachment_771032" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Peppergreen Estate via Destination NSW[/caption] The whole region is home to over 60 vineyards and 17 cellar doors specialising in cool-climate wine varieties like pinot noir and riesling. You can use this handy Southern Highlands wine trail map to get you started. Be sure to include a stop at Peppergreen Estate, where you'll find wines on sale alongside extra virgin olive oil produced from the vineyards adjoining olive grove. Then there's Artemis Wines, which has woodfired pizzas on every Saturday and Sunday — plus BYO vinyl nights, movie nights and yoga events occurring regularly, too. And you cannot miss trips to the award-winning Tertini cellar door and Tractorless Vineyard — at the latter, the biodynamic wines are made by letting sheep graze on the weeds in lieu of using machines and pesticides. Wine not your thing? Whisky and gin fans should instead head to the Joadja Distillery, where free tours and tastings of its small-batch drops are on offer every weekend. Meanwhile, lovers of craft beer should stop by Eden Brewery in Mittagong — and pop across the road to Gumnut Patisserie for a pie to enjoy with your tasting paddle. And, if you have the cash to splash for dinner, be sure to reserve a table at Eschalot, which serves up fine dining from a quaint stone cottage in Berrima. [caption id="attachment_770408" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Dirty Janes via Destination NSW[/caption] DO The Southern Highland's boasts some pretty spectacular outdoor sights, including the well-known trio of waterfalls — namely Fitzroy, Belmore and Carrington — and an abundance of hiking trails. If you do plan on stopping by the Fitzroy Falls and have a few hours to spare, you'll be well-placed to complete the 1.5-hour West Rim walking track through lush rainforest. Alternatively, epic views of Bowral and Mittagong are on offer at Mount Gibraltar Reserve, or swap your bushwalk for a trip to The Southern Highlands Botanic Gardens in Bowral. If you'd rather take things at a more leisurely pace, spend some time wandering through Bowral's many boutiques and specialty stores. You'll find a mix of eclectic and antique homewares at Barbara's Storehouse, Dirty Janes and The Bronte Tram, indoor plants at The Potting Shed and delicious handmade chocolates and marshmallows at Ms Peacock Confections. Art aficionados can easily enjoy an art trail, with heaps of studios set in and around the Bowral town centre. Popular galleries include Bowral Art Gallery — which offers a regularly rotating lineup of exhibitions, painting workshops and events — and The Milk Factory, where the contemporary exhibitions are paired with a gallery shop selling resin jewellery and blown glass. Around the wider Southern Highlands region, you can also take sculpture classes, pick up some handmade ceramic homewares and even visit a puppet centre. Find more art options in the surrounding region over here. [caption id="attachment_897212" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Peppers Craigieburn[/caption] STAY Bowral's small-town vibes make staying in boutique accommodation a must. Peppers Craigieburn offers just that — each of the rooms in this country hotel overlooks the expansive 36 hectare garden estate and private nine hole golf course. For something altogether more modern and glam, hit up Berida Hotel. Not only do you get spacious rooms with lavish furnishings and fittings, but you'll also have access to the hotel's own spa — an essential for anyone wanting to really spoil themselves on a weekend away in the Southern Highlands. For those travelling on a bit of a budget, you can even rent a room at the local Bowral Hotel. This pub has a few motel-style rooms around the back that have been recently refurbished. Grab some pints and classic Aussie pub grub before taking the short walk to your room for a good night's sleep. It will help you have a proper local experience in the Southern Highlands. Feeling inspired to book a truly unique getaway? Head to Concrete Playground Trips to explore a range of holidays curated by our editorial team. We've teamed up with all the best providers of flights, stays and experiences to bring you a series of unforgettable trips in destinations all over the world. Top image: Destination NSW
Beloved inner west brewery Hawke's Brewing Co's 2100-square-metre Marrickville brewery is home to its own pub paying homage to 1980s boozers and the beer's namesake. The Bob Hawke Beer and Leisure Centre boasts a retro fit-out, a highly nostalgic bistro and the full range of Hawke's beers. The 300-seat venue opened on the cusp of Hawke's fifth anniversary. Inside, you'll find a pub or community centre-style restaurant and bar decked out with wood panelling inspired by Old Parliament House. Walking through the venue, you'll find walls lined with steel brewing tanks, a patio area, and a pool room filled with Bob Hawke memorabilia. Food-wise, patrons can enjoy The Lucky Prawn, an 80s Chinese-Australian bistro that the Hawke's team has created with help from Nic Wong (Cho Cho San, Bodega). The food is a throwback, just like the rest of the venue. There's prawn toast, sang choi bao, honey king prawn, sizzling beef and the mother of all nostalgic creations, deep-fried Viennetta. While a Hawke's brew is obviously the recommended beverage of choice at The Lucky Prawn, you can also order a bottle of Crown Larger for special occasions. "While we named the venue in his honour, we were mindful of being sycophantic and simply plastering imagery of Hawkie all over the place," Hawke's co-founder Nathan Lennon says. "I think we've achieved a balance that pays tribute to Bob in the Pool Room while delivering an authentic Australian experience throughout the rest of the space." While The Bob Hawke Beer & Leisure Centre is drenched in nostalgia, Lennon and fellow owner David Gibson wanted to ensure it was also sustainable and future-focused. The brewery is run with the help of a 100-kilowatt rooftop solar farm and houses several eco-innovations alongside the venue. The building's carbon capture system, developed with UTS Tech, uses carbon dioxide from the beer's fermentation to help grow plants and vegetables in the venue. Images: James Adams. Appears in: The Best Sydney Brewery Bars for 2023
Lavender Bay hotspot Loulou offers Sydneysiders a taste of everyday French life. The bistro-bakery-delicatessen hybrid is a local favourite on the lower north shore, with the team providing everything from a morning coffee and smoked ocean trout to a champagne lunch paired with hand-cut steak tartare. Over at the bistro, you'll find grilled spatchcock, Sydney rock oysters and an impressive wine list. Highlights of the French-inspired menu include the melt-in-your-mouth côte de bœuf served sliced with a drizzle of sauce bordelaise. There's classic steak frites with sauce au poivre, as well as lighter hors d'oeuvres including a quiche du jour with salad and a grilled octopus with sauce bouillabaisse. Combining traditional French styling and contemporary aesthetics, the dining space feels warm and luxurious — think warm timber, brass accents and mosaic marble floors. Guests can pull up a seat at the bar or slide into a cushy booth to enjoy an intimate meal with family and friends. With over 150 wines available by the bottle, the highly skilled sommeliers ensure guests can choose from an extensive list of both Australian and French producers. Follow your nose to the boulangerie next door, where you'll be enveloped in the delicious aroma of artisanal baguettes, croissants, mice loaves and pain au chocolats. The team here bake four times a day, seven days a week. This number of bakes in a day is almost unheard of in Australia, ensuring that if you pop by after work, the bread is as fresh as can be — just like in Paris. Over in the traiteur (delicatessen), browse a wide selection of house-made produce and comforting home-style meals. Loulou is your perfect pre-picnic pit stop, from jars of pickles to charcuterie, cheese and whole rotisserie chickens. Over in the cold section, pristine glass cabinets feature a variety of terrines, parfaits and fresh salads — there's nothing better than a summer cassoulet or chilled ratatouille in Sydney's heat. Guests can bring the goodies home or enjoy them outside on the sun-soaked terrace. Our top tip? Fill a basket and take a quick stroll to Wendy's Secret Garden. It's one of Sydney's most beautiful green spaces and is only a stone's throw away. Images: Steven Woodburn Appears in: Where to Find the Best Breakfast in Sydney
Come July, some of us will be feeling that Melbourne winter chill slightly more than others, as acclaimed New York artist Spencer Tunick returns to Australia to stage the next of his famed mass nude photographs. It's been 17 years since Melbourne's first taste of the polarising artist's work, when 4500 naked volunteers posed for a snap near Federation Square as part of the 2001 Fringe Festival. Tunick then photographed around 5000 nude people in front of the Sydney Opera House during the 2010 Mardi Gras. Since then, he's photographed the public painted red and gold outside Munich's Bavarian State Opera, covered in veils in the Nevada desert and covered in blue in Hull in the UK. Now the artist is set to return to our shores, and his sights are set on Melbourne's iconic Chapel Street. Tunick will assemble another contingent of naked (and pretty brave) folk this July, for a work titled Return of the Nude, as part of the precinct's winter arts festival Provocaré. "Chapel Street reminds me of the East Village in New York, Sunset Strip in LA, and San Francisco's Haight-Ashbury, but all combined into one juggernaut," said Tunick. "I think people from Melbourne are a little braver because of their willingness to pose no matter the weather. I get a sense of resilience and risk taking." Anyone over the age of 18 can get their kit off and get involved — Tunick hopes to have a diverse mix of bodies in the shoot, which will be held across two days in four locations around the iconic Chapel Street precinct. Participants each get a print of the photograph, and, we're sure, a big boost of body confidence. Hopefully not a cold, though — if you participate, you'll only need to be sans-clothes for short periods of time. Provocaré will take place across the Chapel Street precinct from July 5–15, with Return of the Nude being shot over two days between July 7 and 10. You can register to take part here.
Loving skivvies, winning Triple J's Hottest 100, performing at the 2022 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade: all three of these yummy yummy things now apply to Australian national treasures The Wiggles. And yes, as fans young and old have seen for more than three decades now, the children's music group clearly already has the outfits for it. The Wiggles' rainbow-hued threads will grace the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) when Mardi Gras' famed signature event returns on Saturday, March 5. The parade is being held at the stadium due to the pandemic, as it was in 2021, too — so, sorry, you won't see a big red car drive down Oxford Street. This year's Hottest 100 victors have promised to bring "their Wiggly friends" to the SCG with them, however — all to take part in Sydney's huge LGBTQIA+ celebration for the very first time. On the parade's lineup, they'll be joined by Savage Garden's Darren Hayes, who'll headline and do his first Australian performance in a decade; Vanessa Amorosi, for some more late 90s/early 00s nostalgia; plus Mo'Ju, Timothy Springs and Prinnie Stevens, as well as local DJs KILIMI, Charlie Villas and Division 4. And, the parade will host 40,000 spectators to watch 5800 marchers across 161 parade entries as well, celebrating the 2022 theme 'united we shine'. [caption id="attachment_828658" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Anna Kucera[/caption] This year's fest is ticketed, and there are still some available; however, if you can't head along for some fruit salad, hot potatoes and cold spaghetti in person — and perhaps the Hottest 100-winning 'Elephant' cover — in person, you'll be able to tune into the parade in a number of ways. So, whether you're a Sydneysider who'll be at home or you live elsewhere around the nation, you can watch on ABC iview from 6.30pm AEDT, ABC TV from 7.30pm AEDT, and listen via Triple J (including the Triple J and ABC listen apps) and ABC Local Radio Evenings from 7pm AEDT. The 2022 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade takes place at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Saturday, March 5. For more information or to buy tickets, head to the Mardi Gras website.
Sometimes, you just want your own space at a restaurant or bar, especially if you're celebrating — that's when you hunt for the best private dining rooms in Sydney. Within these secluded parts of the venue, you can be as loud as you like (or escape all the noise of the public areas), order from bespoke menus, control the room's tunes and sometimes even have access to a private bar and bartender. Whether it's your best mate's surprise birthday, your annual Christmas party, or you're, say, Drake and would like to damn well enjoy your Australian tour dinner in peace, these venues have the best private dining rooms in Sydney — ready to go whenever needed. Recommended reads: The Best Restaurants in Sydney The Best Bars in Sydney The Best Wine Bars in Sydney The Best Pubs in Sydney
Marrickville is turning up the volume this spring, with the return of the Marrickville Music Festival. Taking over Marrickville Road and its adjoining laneways on Sunday, October 12, the annual street party is one of Sydney's biggest free celebrations of homegrown music, transforming the neighbourhood into a bustling hub of sound, food and creativity. Across seven stages, the program will spotlight a broad mix of local talent. Expect headlining sets from pop-punk favourites Yours Truly, indie-rockers The Colliflowers and alt-pop duo No Frills Twins, alongside Southey, The Smashed Avocados, Upside Under and byjaye. The lineup spans everything from high-energy rock and soul to smooth R&B and genre-bending electronica — plus roving performers adding everything from Celtic funk to rhythmic taiko. [caption id="attachment_1027063" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Georgia Brogan[/caption] Beyond the live acts, there'll also be a Koori Radio tent spinning tunes all day long, as well as creative markets and street food curated by beloved local music bar Gasoline Pony and the Inner West Artist Markets. Clear your Sunday afternoon to get involved — the festival runs from 12–6pm, packing in wall-to-wall entertainment and good vibes aplenty. Head to the festival's website for the full lineup and more info, and check out its Spotify playlist to get in the mood. [caption id="attachment_1027064" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Georgia Brogan[/caption]
Ramp up the Christmas spirit this December with the return of the Sydney Opera House's much-loved tradition: Carols at the House. Featuring the acclaimed Sydney Philharmonia Choirs across three special dates from Friday, December 12–Sunday, December 14, this year's event is headlined by a trio of stars from the musical stage — Mitchell Butel, Annie Aitken and Alexander Lewis. Spanning a merry program, guests can expect a host of seasonal favourites sung with perfect pitch, including Joy to the World, Away in a Manger, Silent Night and The Twelve Days of Christmas. Meanwhile, the program also features the debut performance of Christmas in Summer — a newly commissioned work by Aussie composer Joe Twist. "With three fantastic soloists, a large symphony orchestra and a massive choir singing a range of traditional carols through to those fresh off the page, it's a real chance to not only show off our wonderful choristers but also introduce you to some new carols that will quickly become classics," says Sydney Philharmonia Choirs' Artistic and Musical Director, Brett Weymark. Plus, as an extra special treat ahead of Christmas, the Sydney Philharmonia Choir will also host a one-off performance of Bach's Christmas Oratorio (Part 2) from 2pm on Saturday, December 13, offering a Baroque interpretation of the Nativity story. Featuring two new commissions combining orchestra and chorus, expect this rousing encounter to lift your festive mood.
You won't regret ordering from Al Barakeh. Firstly, it's run by people who have been spreading the joys of Lebanese food across our state's capital for over a decade. Secondly, it has car-themed burgers called The Cattleac, The Chicken Burgatti and The Lamburghini (so it's a fun time). Thirdly, it has expert proponents of the two great Lebanese salads: tabbouleh and fattoush. You can also order an entire bag of addictive, pillowy soft Lebanese bread for just three bucks. All that and we haven't even mentioned the mouth-watering charcoal chicken that made it famous in the first place, which is definitely what you should order when you're here. A whole charcoal chook with garlic sauce is $17. Images: Cassandra Hannagan
Once sandstone house, now historic pub, the Lord Nelson has to be one of Sydney's best places to enjoy a beer. This is a proper, old English-style pub, set in the right spot to have exceptional views straight across the harbour. Naval prints on the walls, no poker machines and plenty of locals: this is exactly how pubs should be. The beer on offer isn't half bad either. On tap are the six beers brewed on-site, ranging from a summer ale to a porter. The most popular is the Three Sheets, a pale ale, though we'd also recommend the Victory Bitter, a classic English ale with a touch of caramel. If you decide to venture upstairs and make the most of the view, perhaps complete the picture with the brewery's summer ale, the Quayle Ale. All are completely natural, with no preservatives, extra sugar or other additives. While you're at it, we'd suggest making the most of the bar menu. The hit is the beef pie, served up old style and topped with mushy peas, mash and gravy. The pizzas are good share options, with either roast capsicum, kalamatas, crumbled fetta and caramelised onion or chilli-marinated prawns and chorizo to choose from. Should you choose to go the whole way, you won't be disappointed. The full brasserie menu offers everything from ragout to Nepalese Momo, spatchcock to a hotpot. Whatever your pick, make sure you don't miss out on the sautéed pears in Old Admiral to round it all off. For a pub, they adapt surprisingly well to requests, with gluten free options on offer even on the bar menu. Then again, the Lord Nelson is more than your typical pub. The locals will tell you that. [nggallery id=102]
Brisbane has been laid bare. In one of the most-ambitious installations in a career filled with them, acclaimed New York artist Spencer Tunick has turned the River City's famed Story Bridge into the site of his latest mass nude photography work. Called RISING TIDE, the piece is a follow-up to his 2023 work TIDE. While the latter featured around 150 people posing naked by the Brisbane River, the former enlisted a cast of 5500 on one of the Queensland capital's landmarks. Tunick keeps using the River City for inspiration to celebrate diversity, equity and inclusion, with his latest instance literally stopping traffic. Indeed, it isn't just cars that've now brought Brisbane's Story Bridge to a standstill in 2024. On Sunday, October 27, the famed river crossing closed to vehicles from 1–9am to become the site of Tunick's newest nude photography work instead. In behind-the-scenes images from the shoot, the river crossing packs its expanse with unclothed participants — sometimes reclining on their backs, sometimes on their sides with their arms to the sky. Although the Story Bridge has shut for roadworks and even a market before, there's never been anything like this in the structure's 84-year history. Because taking over one iconic Brissie spot wasn't enough, RISING TIDE also incorporated the Brisbane Riverwalk. Both TIDE and RISING TIDE come courtesy of Brisbane's annual LGBTQIA+ arts and culture festival Melt — and attendees can see the images from TIDE at 2024's fest at Brisbane Powerhouse until Sunday, November 10. That exhibition marks the first time that Tunick has put his work on display for the public, as well as his first-ever Australian showcase, with both milestones coming after 30 years and 100-plus installations spent making his style of art. There's no word yet if the Story Bridge images will get the same treatment, but folks who took part in RISING TIDE will receive a print of the final artwork. "This work on Brisbane's Story Bridge and locations around it has been my most inclusive installation to date. Five-and-a-half thousand people is my largest Australian work so far and this one is very special because it celebrates the LGBTQIA+ community and allies," said Tunick about RISING TIDE. "Photographing all the participants on the bridge was like looking down the mouth of a whale, filled with love and diversity." "I wanted to be a part of something bigger. I've gone through illnesses, and you just get to a point where so many people have seen your bits over the years that you just go 'why not?'. It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," noted one of the participants. "It's really nice to see so many different body types — shapes, sizes and age groups. I came alone so it's pretty fun to see that so many other people have braved it as well," added another. "It's a sense of unity that you don't often get. It's just an incredible opportunity for people to come together, to celebrate each other and to celebrate art," advised a third. Over the past three decades, Tunick's installations have seen him hit the Whitsundays with almost 100 naked Aussies in 2019 and briefly turn Bondi into a nude beach in 2022. The artist initially turned his lens Australia's way in 2001 in Melbourne, when 4500 naked volunteers posed for a pic near Federation Square as part of the 2001 Fringe Festival. Since then, he's also photographed around 5000 nude people in front of the Sydney Opera House during the 2010 Mardi Gras, then returned to Victoria in 2018 shoot over 800 Melburnians in the rooftop carpark of a Prahran Woolworths. Elsewhere, Tunick has photographed the public painted red and gold outside Munich's Bavarian State Opera, covered in veils in the Nevada desert and covered in blue in Hull in the UK. Spencer Tunick's 'RISING TIDE' installation took place on Sunday, October 27, 2024 on Brisbane's Story Bridge during Melt Festival. For more information about the fest, head to the event's website. Images: Markus Ravik.
Sydney has no shortage of beautiful neighbourhoods vying for attention. One gleaming gem in its crown, however, is Potts Point. Just east of the Sydney CBD, and close to the historic Kings Cross, the neighbourhood is a blend of heritage architecture, leafy streets, boutiques, bars, galleries and more. If you're looking to stay in the culturally-rich precinct for the weekend, Hotel Indigo Sydney Potts Point offers front-row access to the best parts of the neighbourhood. [caption id="attachment_1032369" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Hotel Indigo Sydney Potts Point[/caption] With its boutique rooms, quirky interiors, and views overlooking the beautiful Rushcutters Bay, Hotel Indigo Sydney Potts Point situates you right in the heart of the action and luxe Sydney lifestyle. Here's how to plan your next weekend exploring the neighbourhood. [caption id="attachment_1032350" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] Begin With A Wander And Coffee Potts Point is a beautiful walkable neighbourhood that's dotted with some of the city's heritage 20th-century architecture. Enjoy an early morning stroll around the suburb to orient yourself and soak up the view. After a wander, head to Piña for a coffee and breakfast. Located down Llankelly Place's laneway, Piña is a buzzy local café that offers outdoor seating, so you can people-watch while sipping on your flat white. Room Ten, located across the road, is also a popular café destination for locals. Be sure to enjoy some breakfast and fuel up for browsing. [caption id="attachment_652937" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Potts Point Bookshop[/caption] Browse The Boutiques Potts Point is a mecca of independent stores and designers. Macleay Street in particular offers a range of boutiques for you to peruse. Potts Point Bookshop is a destination for any bibliophile. Macleay on Manning is another eclectic Potts Point staple that's been around for over two decades. Here you'll find design books, ceramics, candles and fashion to inspire. If you're looking to pick up some new threads, Locale features clothes by both local and international brands such as Elka Collective and King Csila. [caption id="attachment_654859" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Fratelli Paradiso[/caption] Long Lunch After window shopping (or dropping some cash), you've probably worked up an appetite. The Apollo is a Greek restaurant that specialises in the art of the long lunch, while across the road, Cho Cho San serves modern Japanese cuisine. If Italian is more your style, enjoy casual European dining at Fratelli Paradiso. Top off your lunch date with a wine from Dear Sainte Éloise. Also located in the laneway of Llankelly Place, the wine bar features over 350 bottles to choose from, all in a sophisticated Potts Point setting. [caption id="attachment_623519" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Dear Sainte Éloise[/caption] Bar Hopping Post-aperitif at Dear Sainte Éloise, you may want to continue enjoying the buzzy atmosphere of Potts Point. The neighbourhood has always known how to do nightlife. From its King's Cross heyday to the modern and glamorous cocktail bars, there's no shortage of venues to select from. If you enjoy your cocktails with a side of New York City sophistication, drop in to The Roosevelt. Jangling Jack's offers live music and a mean martini, while Dulcie's gives you a glimmer of Sydney's past with its underground cocktail parlour. [caption id="attachment_791596" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Ezra[/caption] Dine Like A Local Looking for a dinner spot for your Potts Point stay? There are several venues for you to head to after exploring the neighbourhood. Ezra serves bold Middle Eastern flavours with a Mediterranean twist in a relaxed setting. Its small plates are perfect for sharing with friends or your date. Meanwhile, Bloom is a café by day and an Italian-inspired restaurant by night. If you're craving some mouth-watering pizzas, check out Bloom's sourdough bases. If you're the traveller who likes to make the most of the hotel, Hotel Indigo Sydney Potts Point is home to Luc-San Restaurant. With a menu crafted by renowned chef Luke Mangan, the casual dining bar offers a blend of French and Japanese-inspired cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. Plus, you can just hop the elevator back upstairs once finished. Easy. [caption id="attachment_1032368" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Hotel Indigo Sydney Potts Point[/caption] The Perfect Base When you're done wandering (and eating) for the day, Hotel Indigo Sydney Potts Point is ready to welcome you back. Home to stylish rooms with views across the city, and filled with nods to the neighbourhood, the boutique hotel offers a plush place to relax and gather your energy before more exploring tomorrow. [caption id="attachment_1034131" align="alignleft" width="1920"] Hotel Indigo Sydney Potts Point[/caption] Want to stay in the thick of it? Find out more about Hotel Indigo Sydney Potts Point here. Lead image: Hotel Indigo Sydney Potts Point
Organic and sustainable ingredients are carefully curated to create a Scandinavian-inspired menu at Funkis Köket, which mirrors the calming rustic yet minimalist aesthetic of this Paddington haunt. Straddling the line between cafe and garden, this eatery offers a wide range of tasty, nutritious items. Grab Skagen-inspired salmon consisting of creme fraiche, smoked salmon, dill, and mayo — all whipped together — alongside lemon-soaked zucchini slices and freshly toasted sourdough bread. We also love to add a cheeky poached egg to this affair to make that extra bit brunchy. Seasonal granola, avocado on toast and simple eggs on toast are also featured on the short but sweet breakfast menu at Funkis. And if you're in a rush, look no further than its freshly baked cardamom buns. They're some of the best in Sydney. Love all the plates and bowls your breakfast is served in, too? Check out its adjoining homewares store to take some home with you. Here, you'll also find women's clothing, handmade kitchen utensils, and plenty of textiles, accessories and books. It's all very well curated and worth a browse after hitting up the Funkis cafe — or while you wait for your coffee. Images: Cassandra Hannagan Appears in: Where to Find the Best Breakfast in Sydney
On the outskirts of Tokyo sits one of the city's most coveted spaces: the Studio Ghibli museum. It's also one of Japan's hottest tickets, with locals and tourists alike needing to book well in advance to get in. You'd expect that of a place that features a life-size catbus, a towering robot on its roof and Totoro sitting behind the counter of its box office. You'd expect it of any venue celebrating this beloved animation house, to be honest — even though it now has company three hours out of town thanks to Studio Ghibli's very own theme park. For almost four decades now, Studio Ghibli's movies have possessed their own kind of magic — the type that made viewers want to get spirited away by their gorgeously animated frames long before the company made a film of the same name. Indeed, in the 38 years since Studio Ghibli was formed by directors Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata with producer Toshio Suzuki, it has introduced the world to all manner of delightful and moving on-screen experiences. Cute balls of soot, determined teenage witches and pining high-schoolers sit side-by-side in the company's filmography with war-torn tales, sitcom-style family antics and more than one ecologically minded fable. And, in the process, Studio Ghibli has achieved a significant feat: it has never made a bad movie. Including TV films and co-productions, it has 25 to its name to date in total — with the latest and Miyazaki first film in a decade, The Boy and the Heron, in cinemas Down Under now. While every single Ghibli flick is worth feasting your eyes on, we've ranked them all. Now you know where to start during your next binge-viewing session. 25. TALES FROM EARTHSEA Combine Studio Ghibli with any number of dragon-filled fantasy tales, and the result might look like Tales from Earthsea. It's actually adapted from one such series of books, Ursula K Le Guin's The Earthsea Cycle. The feature directorial debut of Hayao Miyazaki's son, Gorō Miyazaki, this is the most standard of the company's features — although its characters, including a troubled prince and a young girl saved from slavers, always strike a chord. Tales from Earthsea streams via Netflix. 24. EARWIG AND THE WITCH The studio's first movie made solely using computer-generated 3D animation, Earwig and the Witch immediately stands out thanks to its plastic-looking visuals. And, despite the fact that it's about a determined young girl, features a witch, and even includes a talking cat and other helpful tiny critters, it never completely feels like a classic Ghibli film either. That said, a by-the-numbers Ghibli flock is still better than many others, especially of the family-friendly variety. Earwig and the Witch streams via Netflix. Read our full review. 23. ONLY YESTERDAY Based on the 1982 manga of the same name, Only Yesterday explores the incredibly relatable inner turmoil of 27-year-old Tokyo worker Taeko when she heads out to the countryside for a working vacation. Charting her efforts to reconcile her childhood dreams with the life she's living now, it's a mature and thoughtful film from Isao Takahata — and a wistful and sensitive one, too. Only Yesterday streams via Netflix. 22. FROM UP ON POPPY HILL Gorō Miyazaki's second feature heads to Yokohama, in 1963, when high-schooler Umi Matsuzaki lives in a boarding house. Adapted from an 1980 Japanese comic, this sweet and gentle effort charts her quest to stop a beloved school building from being demolished — and benefits from a tender screenplay co-written by none other than Hayao Miyazaki. From Up on Poppy Hill streams via Netflix. 21. PORCO ROSSO Inspired by his family's business from when he was a child — aircraft parts manufacturer Miyazaki Airplane — many of Hayao Miyazaki's movies take to the skies. Porco Rosso, with its high-flying eponymous man-pig pilot, is one of them. This wartime adventure follows the First World War veteran's clash with a group of sky pirates and the American hotshot they've hired to help, as told with wry humour and, obviously, spectacular flying sequences. Porco Rosso streams via Netflix. 20. MY NEIGHBOURS THE YAMADAS The studio's most visually distinctive effort, Isao Takahata's My Neighbours the Yamadas is based on the manga series Nono-chan, and favours the look of a hand-drawn, watercolour-painted comic strip. That stylistic choice suits the content perfectly, immersing audiences into the quirky series of vignettes about the Yamada family, and offering a visible reminder that nothing is ever as simple as it appears. My Neighbours the Yamadas streams via Netflix. 19. THE CAT RETURNS The only Studio Ghibli movie to continue on from one of its earlier films, The Cat Returns is a spinoff from Whisper of the Heart. As the name makes plain, felines take centre stage. That proves entertaining and even often enjoyably silly for audiences; however, for the film's protagonist Haru Yoshioka, it forces her into a battle with the Cat Kingdom after she saves a four-legged fur ball from being hit by a car — and is told she'll have to marry him. The Cat Returns streams via Netflix. 18. ARRIETTY For a movie filled with tiny people who live in the walls of human houses, Arrietty certainly does brandish a big heart. Based on Mary Norton's 1952 novel The Borrowers, this story was always going to fall into Studio Ghibli's wheelhouse, especially given its focus on a new friendship between unlikely pals. As soulfully relayed by director Hiromasa Yonebayashi, the film charts the connection that between its diminutive titular character and a human boy. Arrietty streams via Netflix. 17. WHEN MARNIE WAS THERE When Marnie Was There champions the importance of friendship, acceptance, understanding and looking to the past to embrace the future, all recurring themes in Studio Ghibli's work. That's hardly surprising in a melancholy and contemplative movie about a lonely foster child and her new friend, of course, but they also take on a different tone here. Made in 2014, Hiromasa Yonebayashi's film adapts Joan G Robinson's novel of the same name into a bewitching gem. When Marnie Was There streams via Netflix. Read our full review. 16. OCEAN WAVES Made for TV, this 1993 Studio Ghibli movie spends the bulk of its time in the city of Kochi, where friends Taku Morisaki and Yutaka Matsuno both become smitten with new high-school classmate Rikako Muto. When the animation studio isn't marching off to magical worlds, it's pondering the emotional turmoil bubbling within everyday characters, with this quiet and moving drama falling into the latter category. Ocean Waves streams via Netflix. 15. THE WIND RISES When it first hit cinemas, The Wind Rises was presented as Hayao Miyazaki's final film — and, if that had stayed the case, it would've been a fitting farewell. Thanks to The Boy and the Heron, the acclaimed animator hasn't said goodbye to viewers yet; however, he gets especially reflective in this rich and bittersweet fictionalised biography of aircraft designer Jiro Horikoshi. Like all of Miyazaki's output, of course, there's much more to this understated gem than the obvious. The Wind Rises streams via Netflix. Read our full review. 14. PONYO As well as boasting quite the catchy theme tune, Ponyo takes inspiration from Hans Christian Andersen's The Little Mermaid. Here, though, the story focuses on an escaped goldfish — and explores the cute critter's new bond with a five-year-old boy. Following in the footsteps of fellow Hayao Miyazaki movie My Neighbour Totoro, the film is perfect for audiences of all ages. It's also bright, bouncy, exuberant and poetic as well. Ponyo streams via Netflix. 13. THE TALE OF THE PRINCESS KAGUYA In The Tale of the Princess Kaguya, the eponymous girl blossoms within a bamboo shoot. She's not the only thing that blooms in this hand-drawn beauty, which marked Isao Takahata's first film as a director in 15 years — and, sadly, his last. Spinning an elegant and entrancing story, this Ghibli wonder evolves from a seemingly standard setup into something subversive and meaningful. The Tale of the Princess Kaguya streams via Netflix. 12. KIKI'S DELIVERY SERVICE Feisty kids are as common in Studio Ghibli movies as jaw-dropping visuals, and 13-year-old Kiki well and truly fits the mould. In this Hayao Miyazaki-helmed coming-of-age fantasy, the fledgling witch moves away from home to prove her independence — as all teen witches must at that age. As well as relaying a smart tale about finding one's place in the world, Kiki's Delivery Service boasts another big highlight: a very amusing talking cat. Kiki's Delivery Service streams via Netflix. 11. WHISPER OF THE HEART Playful, heartfelt and sometimes melancholy, Whisper of the Heart is one of Studio Ghibli's under-appreciated gems — and not just because it features two very memorable cats. It was the company's first film to be directed by someone other than Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata. Miyazaki wrote the screenplay, though, with Yoshifumi Kondō helming this story about a Tokyo high-schooler obsessed with the boy who borrowed all the same library books before her. Whisper of the Heart streams via Netflix. 10. LAPUTA, CASTLE IN THE SKY Studio Ghibli's first offical feature, Laputa, Castle in the Sky heads back to the late 19th century, as a young girl, Sheeta, endeavours to fend off the cunning and determined government agents on her tail. They're chasing not only a rare magic crystal, but a fabled city floating in the clouds — and as Hayao Miyazaki depicts with steampunk flair, endearing characters and a spirited statement, it all makes for an entrancing adventure. Laputa, Castle in the Sky streams via Netflix. 9. POM POKO Mischievous racoon-like critters called tanuki sit at the heart of this Isao Takahata-directed film — creatures with a basis in folklore, boasting the ability to transform into almost anything and possessing very flexible scrotums (yes, really). Alas, their habitat outside of Tokyo is under threat from developers, with this touching delight combining magical wonder with a message. It's an impassioned, affectionate fable, matching its narrative and overtly offbeat sense of humour with memorable imagery. Pom Poko is available streams via Netflix. 8. THE RED TURTLE In its first-ever collaboration, Studio Ghibli teamed up with Dutch-British illustrator Michael Dudok de Wit — and earned a Cannes Un Certain Regard special jury prize-winning for their efforts. A film of narrative simplicity but both visual and thematic intricacy, this textured and meditative feature explores the complicated splendour that springs from humanity's relationship with the world around us after a man is washed up on a deserted island. The Red Turtle streams via Beamafilm. Read our full review. 7. HOWL'S MOVING CASTLE If ever a movie encapsulated everything that's made Studio Ghibli such a beloved filmmaking force, it's Howl's Moving Castle. Energetic, creative and sensitive, this Hayao Miyazaki-helmed fantasy not only unfurls a mesmerising story — about a young milliner who is cursed by a witch, transforms into an elderly woman and becomes a wizard's housekeeper — but does so with beautiful imagery, endearing characters, and strong anti-war and pro-feminist sentiments. Howl's Moving Castle streams via Netflix. 6. THE BOY AND THE HERON Trust Hayao Miyazaki to return from a ten-year absence, and his latest purported retirement, to deliver one of the best, most breathtaking and most gorgeous movies that he ever has. This World War II-set "semi-autobiographical fantasy" follows 11-year-old Mahito after his mother is killed in an air raid, his father moves him to the countryside and the titular bird beckons him into an otherworldly realm — and every frame feels like a culmination of Miyazaki's career. The Boy and the Heron opened in Australian and New Zealand cinemas on Thursday, December 7. Read our full review. 5. MY NEIGHBOUR TOTORO It's the film that immediately found a place in viewers' hearts and never left. Thanks to its heartwarming mood and emotions, astute observations, adorable characters and eager sense of adventure, Hayao Miyazaki's My Neighbour Totoro has become Studio Ghibli's best-known movie for many great reasons — all as it chronicles two sisters' exploits when they not only move into a new house, but make a new pal in the forest (and discover the catbus). My Neighbour Totoro streams via Netflix. 4. PRINCESS MONONOKE Hayao Miyazaki has never shied away from making an ecological statement; however, Princess Mononoke might just send his most forceful message about humanity's impact upon the earth. As set in Japan's Muromachi period (from the 14th–16th centuries), this involving fantasy charts the paths of a young prince with a curse and a young woman raised by wolves, as well as the conflict between a modernising town and the forest it's destroying. Princess Mononoke streams via Netflix. 3. NAUSICAÄ OF THE VALLEY OF THE WIND Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind technically pre-dates Studio Ghibli, but Hayao Miyazaki's post-apocalyptic fantasy has been claimed as the company's own. Charting the battles of a young princess as she fights an invading kingdom and tries to reconcile the damage ravaged upon the planet, the 1984 film became an instant classic, with its environmentally conscious story, stunning animation and stellar score all proving beguiling. Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind streams via Netflix. 2. SPIRITED AWAY In Spirited Away, ten-year-old Chihiro stumbles across a magical and mysterious world, then wants nothing more than to escape back home. Viewers of Hayao Miyazaki's Oscar-winning masterpiece, however, are happy spending as much time as possible in the film's wondrous realm — which, as set around a luxurious and busy bathhouse that caters to spirits, constantly surprises, delights, and revels in inventive storytelling and animation. Spirited Away streams via Netflix. 1. GRAVE OF THE FIREFLIES The most heartbreaking animated film ever made, Isao Takahata's touching war drama Grave of the Fireflies is the rarest of inclusions on Studio Ghibli's cinematic resume. Plunging into dark and sombre territory, it tells the tale of two siblings desperately struggling to survive in the last days of the Second World War. From its fleshed-out characters tussling with life and death to its striking visuals, the movie's handling of its moving and sorrowful story couldn't be more astonishing. Grave of the Fireflies is available on DVD. Images: Sugoi Co / Madman.
Navigating the monstrous Barangaroo House is not an easy feat. Should you head straight to the ground floor or climb to level one? Or two? What occasion befits what level? Where can you eat, drink and find the chicken salt martini? Stress not. We've done the hard yards for you — we've reviewed all three levels. So read below, then negotiate the building with ease. [caption id="attachment_651160" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Kitti Smallbone[/caption] GROUND FLOOR: HOUSE BAR On the bottom floor is House Bar. Set just above street level and in prime waterfront position, it's the most approachable of the three outlets. Serving tap beer, cocktails and wine, it's all bar service and can get four- or five-deep on a busy night. It's aimed at, and well suited to, after-work drinkers with a mix of high communal tables, stools, and some lower tables, though the design is fairly neutral. The menu hero here is Japanese-stye pub food, well suited to a late lunch on a sunny Friday. Start light with steamed edamame or Sydney rock oysters, or get hot and heavy with chicken wings and miso hot sauce. Choose your main adventure with a rice bowl (pick the protein and sauce, the rest is universal) or step it up with some supremely delish burgers (crispy chicken cheeseburger or pumpkin and coriander katsu) served with chips. Wash it down with a sip from the wine list or any classic cocktail you can remember the name of. What's the deal? The most approachable level. Bar service. Japanese pub food and classic cocktails. When is it open? Monday–Tuesday, 12—10pm, Wednesday–Saturday 12pm–12am, Sunday 12–10pm. LEVEL 1: REKŌDO The next floor up is Rekōdo (Japanese for record). On the menu, expect more stylised Japanese cuisine and signature cocktails. A collaboration between leading hospitality architects H&E and interior design firm Studio Etic, Barangaroo House has lots of successful aesthetic elements, but Rekōdo is an ode to Japanese listening rooms — an intimate, dimly lit space with efficiently spaced seating and space to kick back. The food is equally considered in terms of design. Head chef Michael Dabbs has set up a Japanese-style share menu that caters to large crews and a relaxed dining experience. The style is seasonal, the produce is fresh, and the experience can be traditional or omakase-style. Ease into it with pork belly bao with tonkatsu or Moreton Bay bug with mentai mayo and nori. Keep things light with market sashimi and house soy or charred calamari with anchovy, or go all out with flame tail snapper with koji butter or swordfish skewers with yuzu. The drinks only improve as you ascend Barangaroo House, and Rekōdo goes all in on its Japanese inspiration with wine, sake and an impressive list of specialty cocktails. From the flavoursome Sawayaka (grapefruit infused Bombay Sapphire, honeydew and watermelon Campari, Martini Rosso) to the zesty Yuzu Be Crazy (Four Pillars Yuzu Gin, yellow chartreuse, yuzu, bergamot, pistachio), there's a drink for everyone. And finally, there's the origin of the name. You see, Rekōdo is a vinyl bar in more than just aesthetic. The playlists are curated, the beats are eternal, and the artists are some of the most talented disc jockeys in the game. What's the deal? Vinyl and vibes. Make a reservation. Enjoy the drinks and tunes with company. When is it open? Monday closed, Tuesday–Saturday, 12pm–12am, Sunday 12–10pm. [caption id="attachment_651143" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Kitti Smallbone[/caption] LEVEL 2: SMOKE Smoke is at the top of the building. Sydney is fairly low in this sector for a waterside city with our climate, so a great rooftop can never go astray. Although word has definitely got around, and most nights there won't be many spare seats among the well-heeled crowd. The most pleasing element is the dominance of a great big timber deck, with a good amount of indoor and outdoor greenery. The view is beautiful and an ideal time to come is as the sun is setting (just remember your sunnies) – to watch the sky turn from dusk to dark, dotted with city lights. The food direction here is in the menu of Japanese share-style plates. The wines by the glass are impressive, like an excellent Falmet champagne or an Australian Inkwell Primitvo from McLaren Vale. Snacks like sweet and spicy popcorn, yuzu steak tartare with cured yolk, devon and tomato sauce jaffle or crumpets with spanner crab and citrus tell an oddly familiar story. The story's plot becomes apparent when looking at the cocktail menu: nostalgia. At least that's the theme of the spring 2023 menu, with drinks inspired by fresh-cut lawns, hot chips coated in chicken salt and refreshing half-time orange wedges. One thing is clear: the whole development can be summarised in one word: ambitious. It has all the elements of talented designers, sommeliers and chefs, plus an enormous patronage capacity and towering futuristic structural dominance. What's the deal? Head in early. Order one of the custom martinis. And snacks. When is it open? Monday closed, Tuesday 3–10pm, Wednesday–Saturday 3pm–midnight, Sunday 2–10pm.
Tucked away in the South Sydney suburb of Sandringham, the Georges River Sailing Club has existed on the shores of Botany Bay since 1927. While the venue has undergone several evolutions over the last century, it has recently entered perhaps its most exciting chapter, completing a $12 million transformation headlined by Porta Dining, a luxurious waterfront restaurant inspired by the best of Mediterranean cuisine. Looking out across Dolls Point Beach, the new restaurant leans into its bright and easygoing location, combining the relaxed nature of its coastal setting with refined simplicity. Think floor-to-ceiling windows offering stellar bay views, alongside a sun-drenched balcony perfect for refreshing spritzes and share plates. With this reimagined offering, the Georges River Sailing Club haven't skipped any corners. Leading the dining part of the equation, Executive Head Chef Harry Finch has shaped a made-for-sharing menu that heroes local produce. And guests are given plenty of choice, invited to choose a protein and pair it with sides in small or large portions to create a family-style feast. Med-influenced highlights include citrus-cured salmon crudo, pickled mussels and whipped salted cod, while hearty mains span grilled beef cuts with cafe de Paris butter, and slow roasted lamb shoulder with tzatziki. "Porta is about connection through good food, good drinks and good company," says Finch. "We've created a menu that celebrates coastal dining. It's approachable, full of flavour and designed for sharing — just like any great meal by the water should be. It's a summer experience that's hard to beat anywhere in Sydney." For drinks, the menu is even more attention-grabbing. Guided by the crew from Maybe Sammy — routinely ranked among the world's best cocktail bars — Porta Dining features an exclusive partnership combining creativity with seaside inspiration. Across several spritzes, signature creations and twists on old classics, just some of the drinks enjoyed overlooking the water include a lychee martini, a jasmine negroni and an eucalyptus gimlet. "We wanted to deliver cocktails that are as memorable as the view, and with Maybe Sammy cocktails, we're bringing an international standard of mixology to Sydney's south," says Chris White, Acting CEO of Alt. Hospitality Group. Supported by upgraded event spaces, a revamped sports bar and weekend-long lineups of music and entertainment, the Georges River Sailing Club is ready for its next era. Porta Dining is now open at Georges River Sailing Club, Sanoni Ave, Sandringham. Head to the website for more information.
Spanish cuisine is best served small and frenetic, so Letra House is maybe one of Sydney's truest odes to Spain's many underground tapas bars. Open late and secreted away underneath Palazzo Salatto on Kent Street, the menu and space are inspired by the Love Tilly Group team's travels around Spain, and the authenticity shows. The plates are small, the drinks list is ever in motion — and it's absolutely worth a visit. There's one menu item in particular that's legendary for Letra's patrons — the traditional Spanish tortilla with prawn, tomato and fermented garlic. Otherwise, there's plenty worth salivating over elsewhere on the menu. Duck liver parfait with pickled rhubarb and brandy snap, chorizo with beans and fig, and savoury doughnuts with anchovies and manchego custard, to name a few. As mentioned, the wine list flows like a heavy pour. While there are more than a few Spanish labels, you can also take your olfactory senses to the vineyards of Greece, Italy, Japan, France, Austria, Georgia, Portugal and all over Australia. Not a wine drinker? Fear not, a short cocktail list is available, with classics on request.
I have many fond memories from the old East Village Hotel, so stepping inside the newly renovated pub made me wonder if my experience was going to be more like watching Mark Steven Johnson's Daredevil, or Christopher Nolan's Batman. Would the new venue simply be a continuation of the old venue? Or had the guys behind Goodtime Hospitality endeavoured to shine a fresh, new light on an old classic? The renovation really has resulted in a complete facelift for the Darlinghurst stalwart, with a sleek wine bar downstairs leading up to the plush and cosy Athletics Club, and finally winding upstairs to the coveted Terrace, where we set up shop for the evening. Just going by face value, I was definitely leaning more towards Christian Bale's husky performance than Ben Affleck's subdued and dulcet tones. The Terrace is surrounded by a veritable cornucopia of ferns and flowers, and simple, white furniture smattered around the place helps to instil the feeling of watching the sun set from a beachfront bar on the Mediterranean coast, or escaping to Mexico for a few moments. It's bright, breezy and welcoming — perfect for any upcoming summer shindigs. The menu on the Terrace (which is different to the public bar downstairs) is designed to be shared, with four dishes being the recommended serving size for two healthy adults. Not being healthy or entirely convinced I'm an adult, we ordered five dishes and pre-committed to dessert. But first, a cocktail to take the edge off. There's an extensive list on offer, with 13 drinks making the permanent menu. On top of that, there's a selection of four cocktails that rotate monthly, with each month having a themed holiday from which to draw inspiration. This month, it's a holiday in Mexico, so I treat myself to the Dryquiri, a mix of mezcal, bitters, passionfruit and lime ($19). The classic daiquiri is a drink that's super easy to make, but it's equally as easy to get very, very wrong. In this case, swapping rum out for mezcal pays off, lending a delicious smokiness that blends surprisingly well with the passionfruit, and the zest of the lime cuts through the cocktail to make a really balanced drink. Another notable inclusion on the list is the mango margarita, made with tequila, lime, mango and dressed with a chilli salt that will kick you in the teeth and demand that you say 'thank you'. Which you will, because manners. The first dish to arrive is the seared scallop salad, one of the night's specials made with fresh papaya and crab. Now, although it's a special dish and won't be on the menu again any time soon, this dish is worth mentioning because it just exemplifies how the chefs are able to deal with such a diverse menu with relative ease. This salad is incredible, with the scallops cooked to perfection, not overly seasoned, and each of the ingredients bringing a different texture to make a light, fresh and flavoursome salad that you could most definitely make friends with. For the lovers of meat and salty fish, the rare-grilled veal with anchovies and caperberries ($24) is a clear winner. Presented like a classic carpaccio, the thinly sliced veal lines the plate, with the extra goodies dotted artistically around it. The anchovies aren't overly salty, plus the caperberries provide a salty kick of their own; overall, the dish is very balanced. Some of this brininess, though, could have gone on the carpaccio of red and golden beetroot with quail eggs, watercress and horseradish ($22), which was a pleasing mix of colours and textures, but a little salt could have improved the flavour profile to no end. The final two savoury dishes really hit the spot, with an escabeche of seared fish ($24) and the salted cod croquettes ($15) rounding out the main portion of the meal like absolute champions. The Latin American-style of marinated fish is served with a slew of pickled veggies and a touch of saffron, both of which add a new dimension to a seared fillet of fish. The vinegar of the pickles slightly overpowers the distinct flavour of the fish, but not in a way that is unenjoyable — it's just a little different. Then, the croquettes. Most people who've ever tasted a croquette have subsequently acquired a deep love for them, and the Terrace's homage to the classic deep-fried, potato fish ball doesn't disappoint. They're crunchy on the outside, soft and crumbly on the inside, and the cod flavour is delicate and subtle, especially when paired with a zesty aioli. Ten out of ten would order again. When reopening a much loved venue, there are quite a few boxes you have to tick to get you locals back on side. Great décor that makes you feel like you're on a little mini-holiday? Check. Delicious food that fits the theme of the venue? Check. A varied drinks menu with a little something for everyone? Check. And, finally, floor staff that are friendly, efficient and attentive to every table, all at the same time? You'd better believe that's a check. It had been a long time since I'd visited the East Village and, as I sip the last few dregs of a crisp German Riesling and polish off the last of the hot donuts with cardamom, orange and honey ($10), I relinquish all cynicism and finally give in. The East Village is definitely Batman Begins. UPDATE, JUNE 24, 2018: For Sydneysiders looking for something different to do in the cold weather, East Village has transformed its rooftop terrace into a European-esque winter garden — complete with fairy lights brightening up the night, lambswool throws making the place cosy and a fireplace to sit around. Running for the duration of winter, it also features a monthly-changing menu, with hearty minestrone, stacked German-style bratwurst, gluhwein and an indulgent hot toddy currently on offer. The latter comes with Chivas 12 Jameson Black Barrel, Santis Malt Alpine Whiskey, bitters, sugar and smoke. Images: Brett Stevens.
Head south of Sydney or north of Victoria and you're sure to find quaint towns complete with awe-inspiring national parks and world-class wineries. The NSW south coast and southern highlands provide just this, plus an idyllic mix of rolling hillsides and romantic beachside homes perfect for you and your partner's next getaway. If you're looking to get out of the big city, there is an abundance of secluded stays scattered across southern NSW ready to serve as your landing pad to unwind and explore some of the most beautiful landscapes the state has to offer. We've done the hard work for you and found these one-bedroom (or more — in case you wanted to bring your favourite couple, too) cabins, lakeside stays and bushland cottages so that you can live out all your rom-com fantasies surrounded by rustling trees and ocean breezes. Recommended reads: The Best Places to Go Glamping in NSW The Best Tiny Houses You Can Book Around NSW The Best Hotels in Sydney The Best Places to Stay in the Blue Mountains The Bower, Mount Kembla This two-story bungalow allows you to live among the trees for the period of your stay. Just fifteen minutes outside Wollongong, you can experience the slow-moving small-town lifestyle with the nearby comforts of the city. From $350 a night, sleeps five. Bawley Point Cottage, Bawley Point Combining the best of both worlds, this south coast stay is part bushy cottage, part beach house. You can use the provided kayaks and head on an action-packed trip or just sit and read among the trees. From $220 a night, sleeps four. Soul Wood, Termeil Wake up to views of the bushland from this wooden tiny house. The dreamy outdoor bathtub is surrounded by tall native trees that will have you feeling completely immersed in the natural surroundings. From $300 a night, sleeps two. Beachfront Glamping, Bawley Point To say you're going glamping is an insult to this luxury beachfront tent. Soak up the great outdoors from the tent-style bedroom while enjoying the luxuries of a private kitchen and bathroom from the attached unit. From $320 a night, sleeps two. The Lakeside Barn, Wildes Meadow An architectural gem on the south coast, this waterfront barn was created in the 90s from the wood of old Darling Harbour wharf buildings. The barn contains a modern bathroom and kitchen, spacious living areas and a top-floor bedroom that looks out onto the lake. From $333 a night, sleeps two. Creekside Tiny House, Foxground Wake to the sounds of the gurgling creek at this modern tiny house. Located just outside of Kiama and Gerringong, the quaint stay places you nearby a variety of local hiking trails and beaches. From $298 a night, sleeps two. Studio Barn, Nowra This transformed barn somehow packs in a spacious living and kitchen area, a bedroom, a newly fitted bathroom and a private garden out back. It's a cute and affordable spot for those looking to explore the natural wonders of Kangaroo Valley. From $300 a night, sleeps two. Fig Tree Cabin, Moruya This pet-friendly cabin welcomes all of your non-human friends with open arms. From the pugs to great danes and even horses, the property will save you paying any expensive kennel fees while on your romantic adventure. From $140 a night, sleeps two. Lyra, Kangaroo Valley Relax in style with this lush Kangaroo Valley house, overlooking the Barrengarry Mountain range. The house is built from locally sourced timber and rocks and is flooded with light thanks to the large front windows and glass roof panels, bringing as much of the surrounding rainforest into your stay as possible. From $690 a night, sleeps six. Buru, Pebbly Beach Buru is more of a group couples retreat than a solo getaway — so find a couple of other lovebirds and book out this stunning, secluded stay. The renovated 1960s house backs onto a idyllic white sand beach and contains both an indoor and outdoor fireplaces perfect for cosy nights after a day of swimming, surfing and exploring. From $1164 a night, sleeps eight. New Atlas, Meroo Meadow Gaze out onto Cambewarra Mountain from the back porch of this bright beachy home just outside of Berry and less than 20 minutes drive from Seven Mile Beach. From $309 a night, sleeps four. The Old Schoolhouse, Milton This sun-drenched one bedroom loft sits on farm land just a couple minutes outside of the rural town of Milton. Sip coffee from the balcony overlooking the farm or pay a little extra and take your relaxation up a notch by sending a masseuse to the loft thanks to the accommodation's Indulgence Package. From $316 a night, sleeps two. The Lazy Curl, Woodburn This minimalist cabin will provide you with a simple and serene stay in the heart of the south coast. Its eco-friendly design generates energy through solar and collects rainwater and its indoor fireplace will keep you feeling toasty even on cold winter nights. From $245 a night, sleeps four. Monga Mountain Retreat, Reidsdale Stay in Monga National Park while living out your cottage-core dreams at this lovely bushland cabin. Comfy chairs sit on a patterned rug and quaint appliances are scattered around the wood-laden kitchen. From $155 a night, sleeps two. Tawillah Luxury Retreat, Milton This countryside couples retreat has serene views of the Milton countryside and the nearby Budawang Range. Just a two minute drive from town, enjoy a seclude getaway with a beautiful deck, sun lounges and a fire pit. From $460 a night, sleeps two. All photos courtesy of Airbnb. FYI, this story includes some affiliate links. These don't influence any of our recommendations or content, but they may make us a small commission. For more info, see Concrete Playground's editorial policy.
After a somewhat traumatising 2020, there aren't many people in Sydney's hospitality scene that would dream of launching a restaurant that's only open for business once a week. For chefs Grace Chen (ex-Poly) and self-dubbed "Big" Sam Young (ex-Lotus) — the timing couldn't be better. The duo launched a private dining business last year after COVID saw the temporary closure of both venues. Business boomed, and the pair have since flown around Australia to curate luxe culinary experiences for clients, with their catering calendar booked out on Saturdays until September. Juicy Banana is their latest brainchild, a Sunday-only lunchtime restaurant out of the old Storehouse at Vibe Hotel in Rushcutters Bay. From Sunday, May 2, Juicy Banana will be inviting special guest chefs each week, with the likes of Toby Stansfield (of Fabbrica) on Sunday, May 16 and Alex Yu (of Sokyo) on Sunday, May 23. PS40 owner-bartender Michael Chiem and front-of-house manager Alessandro Ponzoni (ex-LuMi restaurant manager) complete the permanent Juicy Banana roster. Young says the pop-up restaurant gives himself, Chen and guest chefs the opportunity to collaborate and "create once-in-a-lifetime experiences for our guests". "We as chefs often have limitations on what we have to cook in the restaurant that we work at," Young explains. "This is an opportunity for chefs to come to our kitchen and cook whatever they want — no boundaries, just delicious shit." The formula behind Juicy Banana's weekly shared-style menu is simple: if Young loves the food, and it's delicious — he'll serve it. The bright venue is delightfully suited to leisurely Sunday lunches, bathed in natural afternoon sunlight along with elegant navy and white accents. Set lunch prices will range between $105–$140. For those interested in a more casual experience, Juicy Banana's bar is taking walk-ins and serving casual snacks with cocktails every Sunday. Drink options include a Basque-style old fashioned; a salted cucumber and habanero margarita; and a macerated strawberry spritz with dry sherry, Hendrick's gin, apple ribbon and dill. A curated selection of wine, beer and non-alcoholic drinks will also be available. At the moment, the Juicy Banana team plan to stick to a one-day-a-week trade. "After COVID disrupted the whole hospitality industry, there is room for chefs and bartenders to be owning their own spaces," Chiem says. "But we just want to do Sundays, and do Sundays well." [caption id="attachment_811115" align="alignnone" width="1920"] A menu collaboration at Juicy Banana, by Wesley Nel.[/caption]
Over the last decade, Sydney's Mexican restaurant scene has had a huge renaissance. Gone are the days of only finding sour cream-laden Tex-Mex offerings and fishbowl margaritas. Now, Mexican food in Sydney is significantly more refined and reflects the dining culture of Mexico itself, rather than the cheese-filled US version. We have stacks of fine-dining Mexican eateries, mezcal and tequila bars, and small neighbourhood grocers slinging some of the greatest house-made tacos and tamales in Australia. To help you find these haunts, we've compiled this guide to the best Mexican restaurants in Sydney. Read on to find where you'll next be woofing down trays of tacos while sipping on fine tequilas and mezcals. Recommended reads: The Best Restaurants in Sydney The Best Italian Restaurants in Sydney The Best Indian Restaurants in Sydney The Best Bars in Sydney
Pizza is not only restaurateur and pizzaiolo Luigi Esposito's life's work — it's also how he's sharing his life story with Sydney. Each of his three Crown Street eateries is a chapter of this autobiography. Opened in 2015, his flagship venue Via Napoli — which heroes the food and culture of Naples, where Esposito was born — was one of the first Italian joints in Sydney to serve authentic Neapolitan pizzas, cooked at 450–500 celsius in a woodfired oven for that distinctive bubbled and charred crust. His second venture, Pizza Fritta 180, which opened on the corner of Crown and Foveaux Streets in 2020 before moving next door to Via Napoli earlier this year, serves the same flash-fried calzones Esposito helped his grandparents sell on the cobbled streets of Napoli when he was eight years old. The most recent addition to his collection of diners is 170 Grammi. With a minimalist, all-white fitout in the Crown Street corner spot formerly occupied by Pizza Fritta, it pays tribute to the heritage of his wife, Sonia, a native of Rome, where Esposito also briefly lived before immigrating to Australia in 2007. After charming the Harbour City with the flavours of Naples, Sonia urged her husband to champion the dishes she grew up with. "I promised her I would open a Roman pizzeria," he explains with a smile, pizza peel in hand, as he stands in 170 Grammi's bustling kitchen during a packed Friday night service. True to his word, the la tonda Romana-style cuisine his wife had been craving is now available to hungry Sydneysiders. And if the white-knuckle pace of the waitstaff and the size of the crowd outside on our visit was anything to go by, it's already a hit. [caption id="attachment_963278" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Luigi Esposito by Trent van der Jagt[/caption] What makes a pizza Roman is the thin and crispy base. For each 13-inch pizza, just 170 grams of dough — hence the restaurant's name — is stretched thin, before being tossed and shaped to ensure an even thickness with just enough elasticity to hold its structure. After toppings are added, the pie is baked for a matter of minutes in the hand-built woodfired oven that dominates the restaurant's surprisingly compact kitchen — not at the blistering 500 degrees of its Neapolitan cousins, but at a gentler temperature, around 250-300 degrees. The result is a tell-tale crunch to the crust and a pizza that is less about piling on ingredients and mountains of cheese, and more about the balance of flavours in every bite. While Roman pizza may be a new culinary discovery for many Sydneysiders, pasta dishes from the Italian capital have household cachet. You won't find a single strand of spaghetti on 170 Grammi's menu, but Esposito has found a way to harness the popularity of those pasta faithfuls by translating them into pizza toppings, including the rich and salty cacio e pepe and the ripe tartness of amatriciana. Far from being a gimmick, it's a brilliant sleight of hand, particularly in the the a'carbonara. Uncannily capturing the interplay between the salty edge of pecorino romano and the gamy funk of the cured guanciale, mellowed with generous daubs of free-range egg yolk, it perfectly summons the flavours that set authentic carbonaras apart from the cream, bacon and parmesan pretenders. Another must-try pizza-fication of a Roman classic honours a family recipe passed onto Esposito by his uncle-in-law, Tonino Toscano. Gathering all the elements of the traditional porchetta di ariccia on a pizza, slices of herbed pork and rosemary-kissed potatoes are brought together with a judicious sprinkle of smoked scamorza. However, the dish Esposito feels most quintessentially captures the essence of Rome is not, in fact, a pizza, but an antipasto. Next to familiar crowd-pleasers like calamari fritti, buffalo mozzarella with prosciutto and fresh-fried suppli (Rome's answer to arancini), the trippa alla Romana — tripe (cow stomach lining) braised in white wine and served in a tomato sauce — might not sound all too appealing. "But you must try, you must! Otherwise you cannot really say you have eaten like a Roman," Esposito insists, as he finishes off a serving at the pass with a hearty dusting of pecorino romano. Trust this advice and you won't regret it — the perfectly cooked organs absorb the glossy sauce and fall apart in the mouth, leaving the sweetness of the tomatoes and the subtle tang of the wine to linger pleasantly on the tongue. When in Rome — or Surry Hills — it's also wise to do dessert as the Romans do. One of the various riffs on the cream-filled maritozzi pastries, with flavours ranging from the traditional, such as pistachio and tiramisu, to the irreverent, such as Kinder Bueno, are the ideal sweet finish to the meal. Sweeter still, the bill is unlikely to leave a sour taste. Esposito has crafted an affordable offering with no pizza priced over $26 and no bottles on the small but considered wine list priced over $65. "It's cheaper than a flight to Rome," Esposito jests. It's also cheaper than a lot of dining options in inner Sydney right now, too. Images: Trent van der Jagt
Paddington favourite Tequila Mockingbird brought its South American and Mexican flare to the CBD when it opened the doors to its pop-up restaurant in an old printing press on Temperance Lane, Tequila on York. That was then replaced by this permanent Mexican spot, Esteban. The multi-level venue is split into three distinct offerings: an upstairs restaurant, a downstairs mezcal bar and a laneway dining space. And now boasts two hats to its name — the first Mexican restaurant to do so in Australia. In the kitchen, Head Chef Will Quartel is serving Mexican share plates created using traditional cooking techniques with sustainably sourced Aussie produce. Corn tortillas are made in-house daily, while the custom-built parilla grill and vertical charcoal rotisserie have been installed to turn out the likes of tacos al pastor and ironbark-grilled chicken. Other specialties served in the upstairs restaurant include pink ling ceviche with leche de tigre, karkalla and fried plantain; seared pork belly with pickled watermelon radishes and salsa tatemada; and a massive one-kilogram wagyu rib eye paired with black garlic and chipotle butter. Meanwhile, in the basement bar and al fresco dining area, it's all about the street food — with tacos, ceviche and tortas on offer from lunch straight through until late (four days a week). Alongside the taqueria-style menu is an emphasis on mezcal and tequila, with a roving trolley pouring drops for patrons throughout the night. Designed by Sydney architects Humphrey & Edwards (Barangaroo House), the space takes inspiration from the underground basement bars of Mexico City and 1930s art deco buildings. The building's heritage aspects, including its exposed sandstone walls, high archways and existing timber beams, have also been preserved. Upstairs, the intimate 45-seater boasts an open kitchen with counter seating and a floor-to-ceiling mural created by Sydney artist Nanami Cowdroy. Other artworks include hand-painted and beaded bottles crafted in Oaxaca. In Esteban's basement, you'll find leather booths and banquettes, plus a granite bar top and custom-built timber cabinets to hold all of that distilled agave. The bar claims to be home to the largest collection of mezcal and tequila in Australia. On the way in, take a closer look at the 400-kilogram front door, which was created from acid-aged steel by Byron Bay artist Daniel Heapy. Images: Steven Woodburn
Desperate to get out of the big smoke and into nature, but still waiting for that next paycheque to hit? Here's your solution: book one of NSW's best free camping spots. Sydney is surrounded by stunning campgrounds that don't cost a cent. All you need is a tent, supplies and enough petrol to reach your destination (and back — a minor detail worth remembering). Whether you want to sleep on the banks of the state's most pristine river, wake up to panoramas of Heritage-listed wilderness, rest within a cooee of a good coffee, or stay around the corner from an old fashioned country pub, it's all possible. Scroll to discover some of the best free camping spots near Sydney. Recommended reads: The Best Beach Camping Spots in NSW The Best Multi-Day Hikes to Conquer Near Sydney The Best Spots Where You Can Camp, Hike and Swim with Your Dog in NSW The Best Mountain Hikes Near Sydney [caption id="attachment_844086" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Mount Wilson, Destination NSW[/caption] Cathedral Ferns Reserve, Mount Wilson This pretty campground is on the outskirts of Mount Wilson, a village just north of Mount Tomah in the Blue Mountains. Run by the local council, the site is an expansive, flat grass area dotted with beautiful eucalypts and deciduous trees. Just ten minutes walk away is the Cathedral of Ferns, 22 acres of rainforest canopied by towering trees and filled with mossy stones and ferns. If you can, visit at night, keeping an eye out for fireflies. Facilities are limited to bins, toilets, fire pits and fairly new barbecue facilities. Cathedral Reserve is about two hours northwest of the city, with a stopover in Bilpin a definite possibility on your way up or back. [caption id="attachment_789764" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Wentworth Falls Track, Destination NSW[/caption] Ingar Campground, Wentworth Falls If you're craving mountain time, but don't want to jostle with crowds at tourist attractions, go experience another side of the Blueys at Ingar Campground. This gorgeous little spot is just a hop, skip and jump away from Wentworth Falls, home to one of the state's best scenic mountain walks. In warmer months, take a dip in the nearby dam or bring a kayak and make it a paddle. While relaxing at your campsite, keep an eye out for sugar gliders, possums and bandicoots, who are all common in these parts. Ingar Campground is 90 minutes west of Sydney in the Blue Mountains National Park. Among the facilities are toilets, barbies and picnic tables — helping make this one of the best free campgrounds in NSW. [caption id="attachment_844090" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] The Pines, Onley State Forest Sleep among pine trees at this roomy campground in Olney State Forest, which you'll find just west of Lake Macquarie. The site is an excellent springboard for exploring the Watagan Mountains. Alternatively, for a stroll that doesn't involve any driving, head along the Pines Walking Trail, which passes through rainforest before reaching a rockpool. Alternatively, you could take the Abbotts Falls Walking Trail, which carries you into blue gum forests. The Pines is about two-and-a-half hours north of Sydney. Toilets, fireplaces and picnic tables make up the facilities. [caption id="attachment_844110" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Flickr[/caption] Bendeela, Kangaroo Valley This picturesque spot is on the banks of the Kangaroo River in the lovely Kangaroo Valley. If you're keen to get active, then embark on a paddling escapade, try your hand at fishing or take a swim. Alternatively, jump in your car and explore the local area, stopping by these foodie spots, conquering a few bush walks in Morton National Park and swinging by Fitzroy Falls. Bendeela is about two-and-a-half hours southwest of Sydney. Facilities include drinking water and toilets, and Kangaroo Valley village is about ten minutes away by car. It is a free NSW campground but you do need to book your place in advance. [caption id="attachment_844113" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Bob Turners Track, Colo Heights, Destination NSW[/caption] Colo Meroo Campground, Wollemi National Park Colo River is one of the most picturesque waterways in the state and this magical campground puts you just 100 metres from the water. Spend your days swimming, looking out for platypuses and losing yourself in the dizzying sandstone cliffs that tower above, or venture over to the Bob Turner Walking Track close by. Come nighttime, prepare for millions of stars. It's a good idea to arrive prepared: the only way to get here is on foot, along a 2.5-kilometre trail, and you'll need to carry all your food and water. Also, if rain's been falling, be sure to check flood warnings. Colo Meroo is in Wollemi National Park, about 90 minutes northwest of the city. Facilities at the free NSW campsite consist of toilets and barbies. [caption id="attachment_668779" align="alignnone" width="1920"] NSW National Parks[/caption] Wheeny Creek Campground, Wollemi National Park You could easily spend a week doing, well, very little, at this idyllic spot, which inhabits a tranquil gully along Wheeny Creek. There's a sandy beach, a swimming hole, crowds of lush ferns and tall gum trees which provide plenty of shade. The picnic spots on site offer a perfect place to set up dinner for the night before getting some shut-eye to build the energy to explore the lush surrounds of Wollemi National Park's southern end. Wheeny Creek is about 80 minutes northeast of Sydney. As far as facilities go, there are toilets and barbies only, but Kurrajong is a short drive away so there's no need to panic should you forget the wine. [caption id="attachment_844134" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Grose Valley, Destination NSW[/caption] Acacia Flat, Blue Mountains Head deep into the Blue Mountains and you'll be waking up to magnificent vistas of heritage-listed wilderness. Start your journey at Perrys Lookdown which looks directly onto the sandstone cliffs, heath-covered plateaus and ancient Blue Gum Forest of Grose Valley. From there, conquer the Perrys Lookdown to Gum Forest Walking Track, a steep, adventurous, four-kilometre trail that takes you towards the valley floor where you'll find the free campground Acacia Flat. Perrys Lookdown and Acacia Flat lie two hours and 15 minutes west of Sydney. Facilities at the NSW camping site are limited to toilets. Editor's note: Perrys Lookdown and Anvil Rock will be closed from 3 October to 20 December 2023 due to road and trail upgrades. [caption id="attachment_825008" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Hawksbury River kayaking, Destination NSW[/caption] Gentlemans Halt, Hawkesbury River This one's for fit campers, as it's a ten-kilometre walk-in — and you'll have to carry all your supplies. The good news is you can count on big rewards for your efforts. The campground perches right on the banks of the Hawkesbury River and, given its remoteness, you might well find that your only fellow creatures are lyrebirds, bandicoots, wedge-tailed eagles and sea eagles. If you've ever wondered what Sydney's wild places were like before European invasion, this is about as close as you'll get. Gentlemans Halt lies at the end of Canoelands Ridge Walking Track in Marramarra National Park, about 90 minutes northwest of the Sydney CBD. If all the hiking hasn't worn you out, you can also head around to the other side of the river where you'll find kayak hire. At the campsite, toilets, picnic tables and barbecues comprise the facilities. And while it is technically a free NSW campsite, there is a $6 booking fee. You can find Abbott's Bakery products at all major supermarkets — and discover more tasty Sandwich recipes at Abbotts.com/recipes. Top image: Olney State Forrest, Destination NSW
The first hand-made ocean pool in New South Wales was the work of convicts. In 1819, Newcastle's Commandant Morisset decided he wanted his own private swimming spot, so he ordered a bunch of resident prisoners to start digging and, after several months of hard labour, the Bogey Hole was created. Cut to 2024, and over 100 ocean pools line the NSW coast — and Sydney is home to some of the most dramatic and fun among them. Unlike Morisset's private splash palace, all of them are used widely and (mostly) freely by the public and have become as much a part of Sydney's beach culture as the surf and sand. Now winter is behind us and spring has most definitely sprung, we've picked out the ten best ocean pools in Sydney where you can swim some laps between the coast and the mighty Pacific, without the risk of rips (or sharks). Recommended reads: The Best Beaches in Sydney The Best Waterfalls Near Sydney That You Can Swim Under The Best Ocean Pools Near Sydney The Best Coastal Walks in Sydney [caption id="attachment_663536" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Paros Huckstepp[/caption] Bronte Baths, Bronte Opened in 1887, Bronte Baths is one of the oldest and most photographed ocean pools in Sydney. Its best known regular was Evelyn Whillier, who at 18 competed in the 1936 Berlin Olympics, and at 20 won gold in the 1938 British Empire Games. In the 1990s — in her late 70s — she'd head to Bronte at 5am every day to squeeze in a few kilometres. You'll meet all kinds of swimmers here — from similarly serious lappers to kids in floaties. There's ample room on the surrounding rocks for lazing about. It's also lit up after dark so consider a night swim on balmy evenings. [caption id="attachment_754006" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] Fairy Bower Pool, Manly The enchanting, triangular Fairy Bower Pool was built by locals, for locals, in 1929. It's located alongside Marine Parade, between Manly and Fairy Bower beaches. Adding to the magic are sculptor Helen Leete's Oceanides (also known as the 'Manly Sea Nymphs'), two curving creatures on the Sydney ocean pool's edge. When the surf's up, they look a bit like dancing aquatic spirits. Try taking a dip at sunrise or sunset for maximum effect, then hit up some local Manly cafes and restaurants or independent stores to keep it the good times going. [caption id="attachment_703447" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] Mahon Pool, Maroubra Mahon Pool's intertidal position makes it subject to fierce doses of Pacific swell. Drop by when the water's high and the wind's a-blowing for the biggest waves and most adrenaline-fuelled fun (just be careful getting in and out). The pool lies at the northern end of Maroubra Beach. It's hard to spot from above, but make your way down the staircase from Marine Parade car park, and you'll soon spy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney among exposed rocky outcrops. Bondi Icebergs, Bondi Members of Sydney's toughest swimming club, The Icebergs, have been proving their mettle here since 1929. To stay in the gang, you must meet every Sunday throughout winter and swim at least one lap of the pool, regardless of icy temperatures or inclement weather. If that sounds too traumatic for you, you can join the masses and stick to summer visits. One of the best equipped Sydney ocean pools on the list, the Icebergs comes with a sauna, gym, masseuse, yoga lessons and cafe. Entry is $9. [caption id="attachment_663542" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Paros Huckstepp[/caption] Bigola Rockpool, Bigola Bilgola Beach forms the floor of a steep coastal valley. It's one of the northern beaches' most secluded spots, and one of the best beaches in all of Sydney. For an adventurous walk in, take the South Bilgola Headland Walk, which starts at Newport Beach, winding its way through tea trees, bottlebrushes, paperbarks, casuarinas and cabbage tree palms. Alternatively, park just off The Serpentine. You'll find the eight-lane, 50-metre Sydney rockpool at the beach's southern end, affording spectacular views of the 60-metre-high Bilgola North Headland. McIver's Baths, Coogee Boys, butt out. McIver's is the only coastal pool in Australia for ladies only. It's been that way since 1922, when the Randwick and Coogee Ladies Swimming Club took over the lease from the McIver family. In 93 years, nothing much has changed — the ocean views are still extraordinary and only women and children are allowed in. Entry is $2.50, to be paid to the baths' volunteers upon entry. [caption id="attachment_754009" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] Wylie's Baths, Coogee Found just south of McIver's Baths, Wylie's welcomes people of all genders. The 50-metre Sydney ocean pool offers 180-degree panoramas of the ocean, including views of Wedding Cake Island (inspiration for Midnight Oil's instrumental rock hit of the same name). Like Bondi's Icebergs, Wylie's by Coogee Beach has all the facilities — from yoga lessons to massage sessions. Entry is $6. It's a great spot for a cool-off along the Bondi to Maroubra walk. [caption id="attachment_754159" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] North Curl Curl Rockpool Curl Curl's exposed, east-southeast position makes it one of Sydney's most exciting but dangerous beaches. The southerly swell surges in, driving waves to heights of 1.5 metres or more and powering hazardous rips. Lap up all the action from the safety of the North Curl Curl Rock Pool. Carved out in the mid-1930s, the Sydney ocean pool has a natural floor and rocky platforms for sunbaking (slip, slop, slap, please). At high tide, access is only available via the coastal walkway. Cronulla Rock Pool, Cronulla Cronulla's main ocean pool lies in the 300 metres of rocky platforms dividing South Cronulla Beach from North Cronulla. Opened in 1932, the Sydney ocean pool first served as a training facility for local lifeguards. These days, it's still an optimum spot for lapping and/or casual dipping, offering vast, uninterrupted vistas over Bate Bay. The Council made some upgrades in 2016, adding handrails and stairs and non-slip surfaces — helping cement its place in this list of Sydney's best ocean pools. [caption id="attachment_703770" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Adam JWC via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] Malabar Ocean Pool, Malabar For smaller crowds and a laidback, local feel, head to Malabar Ocean Pool. Created in the 1890s, it was closed down by the 1970s (as was surrounding Long Bay) due to pollution. But, in 1997, NSW Premier Bob Carr and the local MP pooled funds for a clean-up and re-vamp. These days, the water at this stunning Sydney ocean swimming pool is crystal clear and the views dreamy, especially at dawn and dusk. You can find Abbott's Bakery products at all major supermarkets — and discover more tasty Sandwich recipes at Abbotts.com/recipes. Image: Wylie's Baths via Destination NSW.
Rising from the rubble of the infamous "Murder Mall", perched on the border of Redfern and Waterloo, Surry Hills Village is a sprawling new development that includes hundreds of luxury apartments, a plush boutique hotel The Eve, a plethora of retail outlets and an impressive hospitality offering. Wunderlich Lane is the epicentre of this new dining destination — however, there are plenty of epicurean adventures to be discovered throughout the development. For example, Liquid & Larder, the hospitality legends behind top CBD establishments Bistecca and The Gidley, have created three new venues for The Eve, which is operated by TFE, the same hotel group as the multi-award-winning The Callie in Brisbane. These include a poolside bar on the roof, a classic hotel lobby cocktail lounge and a refined a la carte restaurant. The most ambitious venue on Wunderlich Lane is the 200-seat garden restaurant Olympus from the team behind the popular Potts Point Greek The Apollo. Another major draw card comes from the LuMi crew. Regina La Pizzeria is a classic Neapolitan pizza joint helmed by Matteo Ernandes, formerly of Bondi's Da Orazio and Matteo in Double Bay. House Made Hospitality, who operate Hinchcliff House, are adding two more venues to their portfolio at Wunderlich Lane: Island Radio, a pan-Asian concept showcasing the flavours of Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines and Malaysia, led by chef Andrianto Wirya (ex-Queen Chow and Mr. Wong), and The Baptist Street Rec Club, a cocktail and wine bar with a retro 80s vibe. Japanese chef Raita Noda's second Sydney venue, R by Raita, is another highlight, offering a laidback izakaya experience by day and a more exclusive omakase offering after dark. Wunderlich Lane venues will begin opening to the public throughout October.
Music and sport will collide again this summer as AO Live returns to John Cain Arena for its biggest edition yet. The only music series held at a Grand Slam, AO Live has grown into a major drawcard of the Australian Open calendar — and for 2026, it's getting even bigger. Running from Wednesday, January 28 to Sunday, February 1, the series will stretch across five nights of live performances, with a lineup that blends local favourites and global heavyweights. Headlining acts include The Kid LAROI, Spacey Jane, Peggy Gou, The Veronicas and Sofi Tukker, with additional artists still to be announced in the lead-up to summer. [caption id="attachment_1031979" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sofi Tukker[/caption] The expansion follows record attendance at previous editions of AO Live, which transforms Melbourne Park into a festival-style precinct after the day's matches wrap up. Alongside the main stage at John Cain Arena, fans can expect live music and DJ sets scattered across the grounds — from laidback acoustic sessions in Garden Square to high-energy local talent spinning on Grand Slam Oval. According to organisers, every ticket "unlocks more than just epic music", offering access to both the AO's tennis action and the wider event atmosphere — including premium food, drinks and summer entertainment. It's an experience that continues to blur the line between sport and festival, delivering one of the city's biggest multi-night celebrations each January. Tickets start from $99 and go on sale to the general public on Tuesday, October 14. AO Live 2026 runs January 28–February 1 at John Cain Arena, Melbourne. You can view the full lineup and ticket details via AO Live. Images: Supplied
Twenty years. Twelve seasons, plus a round of revival specials. Oh-so-many music and comedy guests. As at 2025, that's the Spicks and Specks story. This year marks two decades since the series first debuted on the ABC — and through cancellations, new hosts, bringing back its OG talents and more, the music quiz show has become a firm Australian favourite. To celebrate that longevity, its latest run will arrive in June. The ABC announced back in 2024 that Spicks and Specks would return this year. Now there's an exact date: Sunday, June 15. Adam Hills, Myf Warhurst and Alan Brough are all back — this time joined by Megan Washington, Marcia Hines, Kram, Lucy Durack and Robert Forster among the musicians, plus comedians Julia Morris, Tom Ballard, Dave O'Neil and Sara Pascoe. Hands on buzzers, again. Get ready to bust out all that music knowledge, and also to play along with one of the nation's most-beloved television shows once more, too. Among everything that the ABC has ever broadcast, be it news, entertainment, after-school kids shows, oh-so-much Doctor Who and late-night music videos to keep you occupied after a few drinks all included, Spicks and Specks is among the all-time highlights. 2025's season will also feature performances by Spiderbait, Montaigne, Paul Kelly, Emma Donovan, Pseudo Echo, Barry Morgan and The Living End. In the mid-00s, when the ABC decided to take a few cues from Britain's music quiz and comedy panel TV series Never Mind the Buzzcocks by creating Spicks and Specks, Australia's national broadcaster likely knew that it had a hit on its hands — but it mightn't have realised just how popular that the show would become. Here's how it works, if you need a refresher: the contestants answer questions, compete for points and just generally prove funny, too, all while the series puts Aussie musos and comedians against each other. Spicks and Specks was a weekly favourite when it first aired between 2005–2011 — and it keeps being resurrected. In fact, it has enjoyed more comebacks than John Farnham, although that has meant different things over the years. When the program was initially revived back in 2014, it did so with a new host and team captains, for instance. And when it started to make a return with its original lineup of Hills, Warhurst and Brough, it first did so via a one-off reunion special. That 2018 comeback became the ABC's most-watched show of that year. So, the broadcaster then decided to drop four new Spicks and Specks specials across 2019–20 and, for 2021, to bring back Spicks and Specks in its regular format. In 2022, ten new episodes hit — and then the show returned again in 2024. To tide you over until the 2025 episodes arrive, here's a clip from 2024's Spicks and Specks run: Spicks and Specks returns to ABC TV and ABC iView from Sunday, June 15, 2025.
