It's Friday night. You've just finished work for the week, don't feel like cooking, and you're in the mood for some grub and live music. Head to the Inner West and you'll find the Flour Mill Food Markets filling Summer Hill's Harvest Park with some of the area's best eats. Among the delectable eats will be seafood rolls from East Blue Seafood, Street Food Project Sydney's barbecued meats, katsu sandos from That Katsu Guy, Jeery's roti tacos and Sharon Kwan Kitchen's noodles. You can also pick up sweet after-dinner bites like Sticky Bakes' much-hyped sticky-date pudding and gooey choc-chip creations from Thicc Cookies. Local musicians will be providing the soundtrack for the night, performing from 5pm live under the stars — which have a high chance of being out according to the weather forecast. The food trucks will be operational from 4–8pm on Friday, April 27. Street parking is available; however, Flour Mill is encouraging diners to utilise the Lewisham West light rail station just beside the park, or either of the Summer Hill or Lewisham train stations that sit roughly a five-minute walk away. And, if you don't want to leave Spot and Fido at home, the market is dog-friendly so make sure to bring along your four-legged pals.
There's a lot of history packed onto Macquarie Street in the Sydney CBD. At the south end of the road is a stretch of especially historic buildings, including Hyde Park Barracks, NSW Parliament House and The Mint, which is over 200 years old. Despite its age, The Mint can still throw a party. Each Friday in March, its Bullion Store will transform into a bar after hours. Expect tasty snacks (think wagyu beef burgers, parmesan shoestring fries and sriracha popcorn chicken) and Brix Distillers-made rum cocktails alongside drop-in tours exploring the history of the building. Here's a quick intro lesson: The Mint started its life as Sydney's first general hospital, built in 1816 for the cost of 45,000 gallons of rum (hence the rum cocktails). Then in 1855, to manage the NSW gold rush, it became the first branch of the Royal Mint bank outside of London. That's just a sample of the fun facts you can learn. You'll get the full story on one of the drop-in tours — which run at 5.30, 6.30 and 7.30 pm. The doors to the event are open from 5pm to 8pm, giving you plenty of time to snack, sip and study your way through the halls of The Mint. Fridays at The Mint runs every Friday throughout March, from 5pm to 8pm. Entry is free. For more information, visit the website.
Because nobody should have to deny themselves their favourite foods, Nourished have created healthy versions of comfort staples like nachos, burgers and breakfast burritos. Proving that they're looking out for our best interests, they've even helped out with the justification by giving an explanation of why their meals are good for you. Their spicy bean and corn nachos are packed with fibre, protein and iron, which helps cut cholesterol and provides sustainable energy. Take that, diet. The menu is sizeable, and given that it's within walking distance to the beach, it's great that such a big chunk is also offered as takeaway. They've got an ever-changing selection of juices and smoothies and the Campos coffee they serve is one of their biggest drawcards.
Molo at Manta is veering away from its usual Italian fare and reinventing itself as a New York steakhouse for one night. At 7pm on Thursday, May 27, the Woolloomooloo waterfront bar will be serving up a set menu full of tender meat, classic Sunday roast-style sides and a touch of fresh seafood. Co-owner Riccardo Bernabei dreamt up the idea from his love of steakhouses and his time living in New York. The set menu is designed to combine the tastes of a steakhouse with the classic Italian bistecca fiorentina. The centrepiece of the four-course menu will be one kilogram of said bistecca fiorentina served with Molo's house-made steak sauce. Accompanying the meat will be creamed spinach, roasted rosemary and garlic potatoes as well as an onion, tomato and caper salad. Before the meat even comes out however, diners will begin the night with crostini culatello and parmigiano, plus clams casino and oysters Rockefeller for starters. To cap off the meal, Molo will serve up pecan pie with whiskey vanilla homemade ice cream. The Molo team will create a cocktail and wine list that will complement the hearty set menu, however drinks are not included in the $145 per person price tag and must be purchased separately on the night. Images: Jiwon Kim
You know those bad Christmas gifts, the ones that make you slap on your very best fake smile in order to say thanks without groaning. A brick-like pud, some subpar sports socks, a sickly sweet candle — generic and uninspired clutter that you instantly want to return, regift or chuck in the trash. We don't want to sound ungrateful — sure, it's the thought that counts — but a poorly chosen present can be kind of disappointing, not to mention wasteful. Nobody wants to get — or give — a gift like that. Indeed, there's a fine art to Christmas shopping. Not all of us can be gift-giving masters, after all. So, to help you pick the perfect pressie and avoid any bigtime blunders, we've partnered with Australia Post to pull together ten stellar gift ideas, which won't warrant a return. They all cost less than a pineapple, can be ordered online and conveniently delivered to your nearby Parcel Locker so you can pick 'em up whenever it suits you. Let your fingers do the walking, forgo the crazy Christmas crowds and rest easy knowing your parcel is stored securely till you're ready to collect. Happy shopping, Santas. FRANK GREEN STAINLESS STEEL REUSABLE CUP Forget splashing cash on a mug with some trite "Keep Calm and Carry On" message inscribed on the front and get a cup that is both eco-friendly and uber trendy instead. The Frank Green stainless steel reusable cup is pretty much the Superman of drinking receptacles; crafted from commercial grade stainless steel, it's built to last forever (in a good way) which is great if you have clumsy caffeine-lovers in your midst. Drop this baby and there's no need to cry over spilt milk — it won't shatter or break. The cup is also stain and odour resistant, has a nifty spill-proof lid and a clever one-handed toggle button to drink and reseal — like we said, Superman. How much? $39.95 RELOVE PRINT BOOK SUBSCRIPTION We all know a bookworm and a surefire way to score a special place in their heart is to shout them a book subscription. Revolve Print will ship one quality preowned book to their doorstep each month, so they'll never have a shortage of great literature. What's more, they get to curate their reads and pick what kind of pageturners they receive. This gift is not only super thoughtful, but it's also eco-friendly. To take things up a notch, arrange to meet each month to discuss the books. How much? From $9 per month SMARTPHONE PROJECTOR An excellent accessory for the silly season, the portable Luckies Smartphone Projector 2.0 projects music videos, films and photographs anywhere you please. It's a great gift for the gadget-obsessed as it's both stylish and practical. With up to 8x magnification, the projector is light, compact and works with iOS and Android smartphones. Come Christmas Day, the family can stop crowding around one iPhone to look at Uncle John's travel photos and instead see them on the big screen. How much? $49.95 GROW YOUR OWN TEA Tea is a real crowd pleaser; young or old, most people enjoy a good cuppa. While you could gift a nice loose-leaf blend, why not go one step above and give that special someone a Grow Your Own Tea Kit. Each kit contains a growing pot, some soil, the tea seeds — choose between chamomile, peppermint, lemon balm or echinacea — as well as a mug and tea strainer to taste-test the brew. Not only is this pressie full of antioxidants, but it also gives the grower a sense of satisfaction and achievement, which is priceless. How much? $34.95 BACON MAKING KIT This gift is for that one friend or family member who always hangs by the Christmas ham — the bona fide pork fiend, the bigtime bacon fan. Introducing the Baconsmith Bacon Making Kit, which produces top-notch bacon in just seven days. The kit makes two-kilograms of tasty bacon — sweet or savoury, the choice is theirs. All it requires is a good slab of pork belly. The great thing about this present is that it's also like a gift to you. Give it to a housemate or your partner, and you'll reap the benefits, too, with some tasty homemade bacon to snack on next fry-up. We guarantee they (and you ) will be squealing with delight. How much? $34.95 MEMOBOTTLE A staggering one million single-use plastic bottles are purchased around the world every minute and most end up in landfill. Depressing, right? Do your bit and buy your mate a Memobottle. Remember the book Flat Stanley? This is the water bottle version of that; it's nice and slim and can slide right into compact spaces. Memobottles are great for students as they pack neatly into backpacks, between all those textbooks. The bottle has a 450-millilitre capacity and is BPA free — so the water will stay nice and pure. How much? $44.95 DIY BEESWAX WRAPS If you're friends with a passionate eco-warrior or want to inspire a less socially conscious friend, sling them this beeswax block and get them making their own environmentally friendly version of Cling Wrap. The Wanderlightly DIY Beeswax Wraps are non-toxic, biodegradable and reusable — save on cash and save the planet. Win, win. The step-by-step instructions are super simple, just add cotton fabric and you're ready to go. Since they'll be spending less money on plastic packaging for, well, the rest of their lives, it really is the gift that keeps on giving. How much? From $17.50 AESOP JET SET KIT Ah, the intoxicating aromas of Aesop. We still haven't worked out how they make it smell so darn good, but we're not complaining. Give the globetrotters in your life the gift of sweet smells and smooth skin with this Aesop Jet Set Kit. The assortment features the go-to products — like classic shampoo and conditioner, Geranium Leaf Body Cleanser and Rind Concentrate Body Balm — and can be stored in their carry-on for easy access. Aesop products are renowned for their hydrating qualities, exactly what one needs during a long-haul. How much? $41 COFFEE MUG BY INDIGENOUS ARTIST LUKE PENRITH Yes, this is the second cup we've mentioned but its eye-catching design warranted a spot on the list. Created by Aboriginal artist Luke Penrith, the mug depicts the Yilawura Camp Site in soothing green and blue tones. It's a statement piece, which would suit any kitchen or office desk. Since it's only $16, you can order two or three and gift a set. Let's face it, one can never have too many mugs. And if you're a fan of the artwork, you can pick up a range of other wares featuring the same design. How much? From $15.99 SOLAR-POWERED PORTABLE PHONE CHARGER We all have that one friend or family member who is forever searching for a phone charger. Treat them to this solar-powered portable phone charger and never hear "Hey, can I borrow a charger?" again. While the top of the line chargers can set you back around $100, hit up eBay to find a charger on the cheap. With USB connectivity, this compact little nugget will charge everything from an iPhone to a tablet to a digital camera. Just add sun and you're all set. How much? From $22.99 Christmas shopping has never been so simple — order online, ship to a Parcel Locker and avoid the hectic shops with Australia Post.
Every last trilby-wearing tween celebrity, former President's daughter and your smug, smug US-based friends will be rubbing their paws together after this afternoon's Coachella festival lineup announcement. Running over two weekends from April 12–21, the Californian festival has delivered their usual jaw-dropper of a lineup — including Australia's own Tame Impala headlining both Saturdays. Kevin Parker and his touring bandmates have big-name company, of course. Childish Gambino hasn't rescheduled his cancelled 2018 Australian dates yet, but he will be leading the charge on Coachella's two Fridays sessions. As for the Sunday shows, Ariana Grande doing the honours. Elsewhere, a bonafide metric fucktonne of squealworthy acts fill out the rest of the bill — Janelle Monae, Solange, Weezer, Aphex Twin, Khalid, Diplo, CHVRCHES, Jaden Smith, Idris Elba and Aussies Rüfüs Du Sol, to name a few. Anyway, let's be honest, you haven't truly read any of those words — you'll be wanting this: Coachella runs over two weekends, from April 12-14 and 19-21 in Indio, California. Tickets go on sale at 11am PST on Friday, January 4. For more info, visit coachella.com.
Put a little spice in your life with our list of the 12 best Central and South American restaurants in the city. This is the cream of the crop as far as Latin food goes; you won't find a single sloppy taco in the midst. All that's missing is that bright, equatorial sun and a cool tequila cocktail in your hand. 1. Porteño Where: 358 Cleveland Street, Surry Hills This Argentinean barbeque has put Cleveland Street on the map, Lebanese restaurants aside. Quirky and retro, stepping inside Porteno is like entering a themed party. The staff members have donned their rockabilly garb. The fit out is impeccable. The crowd is young, hip and hungry. The focus, however, is still on the food and drinks, which surely won't disappoint. Find out more 2. Morena Where: 5/425 Bourke Street, Surry Hills Sitting at the fancier end of the spectrum, Morena offers Latin American fine dining with a strong lean towards Peruvian. Perhaps the nicest part about this restaurant is that fancy doesn't come at the price of fun. The dishes are playful, particularly in their presentation, and plates are generally served up with a cheeky grin. While South American food doesn't quite feel unfamiliar, this menu is still a bit of a challenge for first-time diners. It's the perfect opportunity to go all-out and try the 'Taste of Peru' degustation menu. Find out more 3. Boteco Where: 421 Cleveland Street, Surry Hills A little out of place amongst Bollywood posters, the dimly lit bar de ‘petiscos’ (the Brazilian tapas equivalent) sits on the Indian stretch of Cleveland Street. The specials of the day are scrawled in colours on the blackboard walls whilst cheer-inducing Brazilian beats supply the soundtrack. You may be a little skeptical of cuisine from a country best known for its controversial hair-removal methods, but not to worry. Try the 'Lula Frita' or 'Brazilian Fry' and banish all of your doubts. Find out more 4. Jah Bar Where: Shop 7, 9-15 Central Avenue, Manly Take a typical tapas bar in Barcelona then polish slightly, adding cut crystal glasses and a pinch of Almodóvar references. Add one chef with a talent for experimentation, a selection of well-sourced, top notch ingredients and a crowd willing to stay all night, then mix well. Serve up atop a plate in the shape of a leaf, and you have Jah Bar: one of the best of Manly's new breed. Find out more 5. Barrio Chino Where: 28-30 Bayswater Road, Kings Cross As it turns out, there’s only one thing better than a pitcher of margarita – and that’s a margarita with cucumber, agave and jalapeno chilli salt. The people responsible for these dangerously good concoctions (and for your 3-day hangover) are the owners of Barrio Chino, the newest thing in Mexican to hit the Cross. And don't expect any run-of-the-mill Mexi fare here, either. Find out more 6. La Paula Where: 1/9 Barbara Street, Fairfield Most of us are familiar with the wonderful empanada and the delightful churro (never mind heath food stores' obsession with quinoa), but this little Chilean bakery in Fairfield has much much more to offer. La Paula is full of plastic chairs and tables, white tiles, and Chilean pride everywhere. We're talking coloured streamers that stay up all year, flags, plastic streamers of flags, and Chilean television buzzing away at the end of the room. Soak it all up and munch on one of their to-die-for empanadas. Find out more 7. Bodega Where: 216 Commonwealth Street, Surry Hills If you’re after some soggy patatas bravas and a sticky glass of sangria then Bodega may disappoint. In an area of Surry Hills once flocked with wholesale garment stores you’ll find quality Spanish food with style to burn. A series of small plates give you the best chance to pick your way through. You’ll kick yourself later if you don’t introduce yourself to the chorizo with soffrito or the sassy salad of silver beet, chickpea and fried cauliflower. Find out more 8. The Carrington Where: 538 Bourke Street, Surry Hills Tapas is only one small part of what the newly renovated Carrington has to offer. Instead, Pintxos and Xampanyerias are opening up a whole new world to patrons. And what exactly is a Pintxos, you ask? Pintxos are associated with the seasides of San Sebastian in northern Spain, the Basque equivalent of tapas which is typically served in bars. Stop in to sample from the vego and pescaterian friendly menu; it is definitely worth a visit. Find out more 9. Miss Marley's Where: 31 Belgrave Street, Manly Retro furniture sits scattered outside the doors of a discreet shopfront on Manly's Belgrave Street. Step inside, and you'll find yourself surrounded by silver patterned wallpaper, amber lampshades and a cosy atmosphere. At the far end of the room sits the bar, with a glowing wall of tequila bottles set behind it. Welcome to Miss Marley's. The cocktail options are dizzying, the Central and South American food is worth fighting for, and the tequila list would satisfy even the fussiest aficionado. Find out more 10. El Capo Where: 52 Waterloo Street, Surry Hills This ain't nice food. Taking the 'dude food' craze that one extra step, El Capo is delicious - but real nasty. In the best way possible, of course. Enjoy fare from the kitchen of ex-guerilla chef Omar Andrade, now ganging up with Joey Astorga, amidst the irreverent decor of El Capo. Tables are built up on what looks like stacks of American bank notes. The walls are adorned with graffiti from Numskull and Roach: guns, knives and a bikini clad woman with the head of a chicken. Find out more 11. Cantinero Where: 18 Sydney Road, Manly Something about Cantinero feels a little bit... illegal. It could be the fact that this is a coffee house by day, occupied by this underground crowd only in the late hours. Or it might be the makeshift film projector, which shows Mexican gangsters flickering across the back wall. Either way, we like it. The bunker atmosphere and a relaxed courtyard combine into something that feels like an Alice in Wonderland-style rabbit hole in the Manly landscape. Don't miss this authentically delicious Mexican food. Find out more 12. El Loco Where: 64 Foveaux Street, Surry Hills El Loco is a temporary solution to the reinvention of this venue, a prequel to a fully blown Mexican restaurant. But we think the wild mishmash of this whirlwind transition is the best part about it. While there's a few options on the menu, this place is all about the soft tacos (all $5). Don't expect an entirely traditional offering, however. While this place is conceptually Mexican, the food's strength is its subtle Asian twist. Find out more
Even with all the specialty bars in town, Champagne has not yet had its chance in the spotlight. Does it have the dedicated Sydney fan base to carry the show? Or will we get confused drinking it with no nuptials to toast or New Year to welcome? All questions will be answered with the opening of the Champagne Room, coming to The Winery's upper floor in late September. Visitors will be able to enjoy city skyline views while sipping on their flute of Perrier-Jouet's Belle Epoque 2006, which will only be available by the glass in Sydney at this venue (and which would ordinarily set you back a cool $200 a bottle). A bevy of other choices from luxury Champagne producers will also be available, alongside cocktails and Australian and international wines. "Surry Hills nightlife is about to house one of the most exciting new bars in Sydney," says Paul Schulte, creative director of the Keystone Group. "We've created a seeming synthesis of comfort and a unique escape for Sydney's champagne lovers." Inside, the bar will be fitted with private booths with 'Champagne bells' which light up whenever you need your drink refilled, forgoing the torturous process of always trying to catch the waiter's eye. While the Champagne Room will come with The Winery's usual food options, on the weekends visitors are invited to splurge on a seafood brunch, including freshly shucked oysters, Harvey Bay scallops and Cloudy Bay prawns. Bless my poor wallet. The Champagne Room will be open every evening 5pm until late and from 11am on weekends.
Walking through a cathedral made of 100,000-plus lights, moseying beneath a canopy of glowing multi-coloured trees, wandering between ribbons of flashing beams — you'll be able to do all of this when Lightscape heads to Australia for the first time in 2022. Originally meant to debut Down Under in 2020 but postponed due to the pandemic, the after-dark light festival will be taking over the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria — Melbourne from Friday, June 24–Sunday, August 7, beaming away from 5.15pm Wednesday–Sunday. While the leafy Birdwood Avenue spot is already extremely scenic, to say that Lightscape will be brightening up the place is quite the understatement. Prepare to see the garden illuminated by immersive and large-scale installations scattered along a 1.8-kilometre route, including sparkling trees, luminous walkways and bursts of colour that look like fireworks. A big highlight: large-scale works like Winter Cathedral, the aforementioned installation that'll feature more than 100,000 globes and make you feel like you're being bathed in radiance. Lightscape comes to Australia after taking over gardens across the United Kingdom and the United States. Developed by Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew in the UK, it's understandably proven a huge success — and more than two-million people wandered along its glowing trails last season. In Melbourne, Lightscape will also commission local artists to create works that'll celebrate the city's culture and nature — giving the after-dark light festival a local touch. Fingers crossed for pop-up food and drink stalls scattered throughout — selling, we hope, mulled wine to keep hands warm during the chilly winter nights.
When you're in the CBD — surrounded by buses, people, traffic lights and tourist traps — it's not always easy to know where to go. But, hidden among the skyscrapers, are stacks of ace places that show off Sydney's best side. With some local knowledge up your sleeve, you'll find locally roasted coffee in heritage-listed buildings, top-notch French fare, oysters you can actually afford and some of the best sunset views for miles. To help you on your adventures, we've scoped out ten spots you really shouldn't miss — whether you've lived in Sydney since the day you were born or you're visiting for just a few hours. But don't let these be your limit. There are so many more drinks, feasts, shops and experiences to explore. Plus, for a few more hot tips, check out our video above for Nick White's — owner of CBD bar Since I Left You — favourite spots around the city.
Before it all began, Poor Toms' Griffin Blumer and Jesse Kennedy knew a few things for sure — they had a shared hatred of fedoras, they didn't want to spend the best years of their lives working for the man and they loved drinking gin. Coming up to three years in the gin-making biz, the duo has created a well-loved, local business that's set to open its own bar by March — which we got the tiniest sneak peek of. We've teamed up with Squarespace to talk to Griffin and Jesse about why they started Poor Toms and how they've gotten to where they are today. TURNING DISILLUSIONMENT INTO INSPIRATION In 2015, the Canberran school friends lived in a sharehouse in Sydney's inner west. Jesse was working as a suit at Macquarie Bank, while Griffin was a budding actor trying to make ends meet. Both found their consumption of gin was proportional to their sense of disillusionment with spending the next 30 years living a predictable life. So, one evening over a few strong drinks, the two made the decision to kick their careers to the curb. "I was disillusioned by the idea of capitalism, and Jesse was disillusioned by the practice of it," says Griffin. Over breakfast in one of those aggressively twee converted warehouse cafes, the duo chatted about what they would do if they could get their mitts on an equally twee warehouse space. Griffin went highbrow saying he would open a performance space and put on plays with his pals, while Jesse just thought it would be pretty cool to have a place to hang out and make gin. Fast forward a few years and (fortunately for us) it was Jesse's idea that stuck. Together the two pooled their dimes and invested in a low-key warehouse space in the backstreets of Marrickville. WHAT'S IN A NAME? Despite not having any real professional chops when it came to the distilling process, Jesse and Griffin definitely had gumption and had sampled enough gins between them to have a clear idea of how they wanted their product to taste and how they wanted people to feel when they drank it. They admit, coming up with a name was a rough process."It's kind of like naming a baby, at first any name sounds bad but eventually people will accept it," says Griffin. They knew they wanted to include 'Tom' in their gin baby's name, as (adorably) it's both of their middle names. Serendipitously, Griffin was doing a reading of King Lear with Bell Shakespeare at the time, and, on the hunt for literally any 'Tom'-themed words, he came across the character Edgar, a kind of clueless aristocrat who — in a very small nutshell — was forced to cast off his riches and disguise himself as the charming philosophical vagrant Poor Tom in order to avoid being falsely accused of plotting to kill his father. The act of throwing off your fakery and pretension to reveal one's trueself became a guiding principle that informed Poor Toms creative direction and brand ethos, "most marketing advice is 'make something with broad appeal or something that is generically interesting to a lot people'" says Griffin, "but we decided to take the opposite approach by making something that appeals to us… and hoped other people would like it." HOW TO BECOME LEGIT Regardless of what you think of Mark Zuckerberg and his social network conglomerate, any business operating in this day and age needs to have some semblance of an internet presence. Before starting Poor Toms, both Jesse and Griffin used social media like any average millennial — "to look at people and not miss parties" — but, despite their shared hatred of photos of drinks on Instagram, they knew if they wanted Poor Toms to be successful they needed to up their online ante. "One of the hard parts was translating the very clear brand identity into an online voice...all of a sudden we had to have a social media presence and a website," says Griffin. "These days, having a website is like having a business card…you need one to be trusted." The two had been binge-listening StartUp, a podcast about starting a business, and as a result, were exposed to a world of audio ads from Squarespace. They elicited the help of a designer friend to whip up a schmick website using a Squarespace template, and started an Instagram account, which, according to Jesse, was "largely to demonstrate that they were normal enough that other people would take photos with them" and with that, Poor Toms became legit. THE MARKER OF SUCCESS IS NEVER FIXED As Poor Toms continues to grow as a business, the definition of success constantly evolves. There wasn't really an exact moment when the pair knew they made it, but they're now producing grade-A gin on a full-time basis, and don't even have to think about returning to those 9–5 jobs that they left behind. Though there's not a lot of time for them to pause and reflect, "you become addicted to the hustle," says Jesse. "There's so much hustle involved in stepping away from a consistent salary." They're busy working on a number of new projects and collaborations including opening a bar in their Marrickville distillery in Sydney, "we weren't ready to open a bar when we first started. We just weren't old enough," says Jesse. "It took six months to figure out how to make gin, and now we're finally ready to have people here." For Jesse and Griffin, starting Poor Toms was never about making bank; the pair is just happy to be working for themselves and producing something they're truly passionate about. "We created something new that people love," says Griffin. "We always wanted our gin to be loved — it's not about revenue or profit. We want to be Australia's most loved gin; we want people to be invested in our story." Discover more of the Poor Toms story here, and stay tuned for more news on the launch of their first bar. Looking to embark on an entirely new venture? You'll need to let people know about it. That's where Squarespace comes in. Kickstart your new biz with a website, and use the code CP for 10% off your first Squarespace purchase. Images: Kitti Smallbone
As if IKEA wasn't already self sufficient enough — what with infinite clothing storage, affordable kitchenware and ready-to-eat meatballs — they've decided they don't just want you to enjoy your home like sleek, contemporary Swedish royalty, they want you to grow your own garden in it too. So they've added a new item to their expansive inventory: hydroponic indoor gardens. Hydroponics is a plant growing method that lets you grown your own greens without soil. It isn't exactly a new thing — the method has been used for years to grow plants in basically any conditions — but IKEA's introduction of their Krydda/Växer indoor gardening kits looks set to bring hydroponics out of the niche and into the mainstream. And, going by the number of people who own those Billy bookcases, it will probably do just that. The kits, which will launch in the UK later this year, are designed to sit on your benchtop so you can grow herbs and lettuce right in the middle of the kitchen, pick them, and pop them straight into your salad bowl like some fancy chef. It comes all ready to use, but you'll have to plant the seeds in absorbent plugs to get them going. Then, when the seedlings have sprouted, you'll need to replant them into tiny adorable planters with pumice stones, give them water, turn on the light (which acts as the sun) and watch them grow. Once they're big enough, you can go right ahead and pick them to eat. Like so: The indoor gardening range will go on sale in the UK in May, with the US set to follow next year. No word on an Australian launch yet, but we'll cross all our not-so green thumbs it won't be far behind. Via Fast Company.
To seasoned street artists and chroniclers of graffiti culture, the name Vaughn Bode (pronounced Bo-dee) recalls the psychedelic, magical cartoon art of Bode's underground comics of the 60s and 70s. Those in the know utter Bode's name with reverence, recalling how his comic book characters — the Cheech Wizard, Dicky Doo, the sex-hungry lizards and the voluptuous Bode broads — were reappropiated with spray paint in the 80s on New York city's subway cars by godfathers of graffiti Seen and Dondi, among others. When Vaughn Bode passed away in the mid 70s, at age 33 — not living to behold his beloved characters blaze through New York city's subways — Bode's 12-year-old son, Mark, took it upon himself to follow in the footsteps, and to develop the artistic vision of his father. Over the last decade, the junior Bode has expanded on his father's venerable legacy, painting graffiti, publishing art books, and creating several comics of his own in the classic Bode style, including the soon-to-be-action-film and cult classic comic, Cobalt 60. All the while, Mark Bode has played an important role in the global graffiti art community, bringing together respected artists from across the globe for unique collaborations. For the Bode in Oz tour, Mark will exhibit some of his most recent illustrations and paintings at Sydney's China Heights gallery, which opens on Friday 24 February at 6pm and runs until Saturday 3 March. Alongside the exhibition, Mark will also collaborate with a number of Australian artists to paint a giant public mural, and to perform a 'Cartoon Concert' at The Standard on Wednesday 22 February from 6:30pm. As the scion of a graffiti culture legend, and as a graffiti legend in his own right, Mark Bode's tour of Oz is not to be missed. So don't forget to bring a fresh felt-tip with your blackbook. See the complete art catalogue here (.pdf).
It seems unsurprising that African Americans vote en masse for Obama and it has been well-established that women vote en masse for Obama. Much more surprising however is that 30 Rock and Game of Thrones fans also vote en masse for Obama. If this infographic is anything to go by it seems that our TV habits can be a useful barometer for understanding our voting patterns. Compiled by Engage, this fascinating graphic was created through an analysis of what TV shows and political pages voters 'like' on Facebook. Apparently, this data not only demonstrates the correlation between political preference and TV habits but also which TV fans are the most politically active and aware. While the overt (and dare I say tiresome) idealism of Aaron Sorkin's The Newsroom and The West Wing (often dubbed "The Left Wing") seemed likely to produce hordes of Democrat devotees, interestingly it is Star Trek fans who are next in line as the most likely to turn up to vote come the Presidential election later this month. For the Republican camp, unfortunately Romney's frequent declarations of love for Modern Family aren't likely to swing many voters as the show's pro-gay marriage stance and ethnically diverse families appear to resonate much more strongly with more left-leaning voters. If this infographic whetted your appetite for bizarre political statistics then check out the graph below to see what your internet usage says about your politics.
Once upon a time, a list of the best vegan restaurants in Sydney would be incredibly short. But over the past decade or so, stacks of plant-based eateries have popped up all over the city — in the form of neighbourhood gastropubs, hole-in-the-wall takeaway joints and luxe fine diners. These spots have upped their game when it comes to the diverse range of food that can be made without any kind of animal product. No longer are Sydney vegans forced to choose between a sad-looking salad, a lentil burger and some lacklustre salt and pepper tofu. These days, the best vegan restaurants in Sydney (and the vegetarian restaurants that have heaps of vegan options) are graced with highly skilled chefs who put a heap of love and creative flair into their vegan eats. Some also have a strong spiritual connection to veganism, which is apparent in the menus and all-round atmosphere. No matter why you're deciding to go meat- and dairy-free, any of these Sydney vegan restaurants will deliver the goods. Recommended reads: The Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Sydney Sydney Date-Night Spots for When One of You Eats Plant-Based But the Other Doesn't (Yet) The Best Vegan Cafes in Sydney
There's never a bad day of the week to see a movie in a cinema. But if you like staring at the big screen and sticking to a budget, Tuesdays are particularly great. Discounted tickets on the second day of the working week is a long-running tradition, and one that probably helped get you through your uni days — and, at Event Cinemas, it's back after a pandemic-fuelled pause. The theatre chain is cutting the price of all adult tickets on Tuesdays by 50 percent, and across all of the different types it has on offer. So, if you prefer Vmax's seating, Gold Class' recliners, to kick back in a daybed or to head to the company's boutique screens, you can do all of the above for half the price. The deal starts again on Tuesday, March 16 — but you do need to be a member of Event's free-to-join Cinebuzz club to get the discount. As for what you can watch, Judas and the Black Messiah, Raya and the Last Dragon, Girls Can't Surf, The Dry, Nomadland and Minari are currently in cinemas — and you can look forward to Godzilla vs Kong, Nobody, Tom and Jerry: The Movie and Trainspotting 25th anniversary screenings, too. Half-Price Tuesdays is available at all Event locations in New South Wales, except Glendale, Skyline Blacktown and Moonlight Cinema.
"One night, as I was bathing in a cool light amber ale I had a revelation to combine together the holy grail of bacon, beer and beef, encase it in butter pastry, then top that with cheesy potato mash." Bourke Street Bakery co-owner Paul Allam isn't afraid to mix beer and baked goods. Rather than enjoying the two separately, Paul uses beer in his pies when the occasion calls for it — and we're calling for it. "Beer and baked goods are the perfect symbiosis," he says. Allam's well-versed in beer's ability to enhance certain flavours and complement others. Certain beers with a more crisp edge, like a Little Creatures Original Pilsner, can cut through heavier, more buttery dishes, refreshing and reviving the palate, while more hoppy beers, like a Kosciuszko Pale Ale, can help you soldier on through spicy food. We were keen to test this glorious secret ingrebrdient theory for ourselves, so we asked Paul for a cheeky recipe. So what's he cooked up for Concrete Playground? One heck of a hearty beef, beer, bacon and potato pie. So much alliteration, so little time. Paul actually uses beer in a lot of his recipes, not just pies. "We made beer marshmallows to challenge the perception of ourselves as men," he says. "We also made dark ale ice cream and ale jubes, then with the leftover marshmallows and jubes, I salted some peanuts, mixed them altogether and made a beer rocky road ice cream. I ate the whole tub while watching a replay of the 1984 Canterbury and Parramatta NRL grand final." So what's Paul's favourite beer to pair with his baked treats? "Depends on the baked good," he says. "With a meat pie, I would say it's a darker ale with a touch of bitterness to counteract that sweet wagyu beef shin and tomato sauce. With a lager, I would honour its cold fermentation with a sourdough sandwich." So, back to that pie. Pick up a six-pack of pale ale for cooking with and of course, pairing with afterwards. Aprons on. Let's do this. BOURKE STREET BAKERY'S BEEF, BEER, BACON & POTATO PIE Ingredients: 833.75gm onions 747.5gm beer — use a pale ale like James Squire 150 Lashes 500gm celery 50gm garlic 2.5gm thyme 750gm tomatoes 50gm malt vinegar 150gm potato starch 2.75gm white pepper 833.75gm bacon 13.75gm salt 2.5kg beef mince Potato and cheese topping for pie: 1kg potato peeled 150gm milk 0.875gm white pepper 0.375gm nutmeg 5.875gm salt 75gm emmental cheese 100gm mozzarella 75gm butter Pie directions: Dice and sweat onions, garlic, celery thyme. Add diced bacon and cook off until golden. Sauté mince over medium high heat in a separate pan breaking it apart until just cooked. Add beef to the onion mix & add tomatoes and pepper, salt and vinegar. Cook for about 45 mins over medium heat then bring to the boil, add potato starch which has been dissolved in about half a cup of water. Check consistency of the filling with a large spoon if its running off the spoon add a little diluted potato starch. Cool in fridge. When ingredients are cold fill pre-lined pie bases with the pie mix. Potato topping directions: Bring potatoes to the boil in a generous saucepan of lightly salted water. Boil until beginning to fall apart then drain very well and mash. When completely mashed with no lumps add butter, cheeses, milk salt and pepper. You need to pipe the potato mix when it's still warm do not let it cool completely. Using a piping bag pipe potato on to the top of the pie completely covering to form a lid. If you love discovering more things you can do with beer (and some surprising facts, like beer being 99.9 percent sugar free on average), visit www.beerthebeautifultruth.com. You'll find information on fusing beer and food, matching different styles of beer with your meals, and how particular foods can enhance the distinct flavour of a well-brewed beer. You can even find out a few nutritional myths around beer, and bust 'em while you're at it. Images: Kimberley Low.
Melbourne-born furniture label Jardan now has a new space in which to showcase its covetable designs with a stunning Sydney flagship store on Paddington's Oxford Street. IF Architecture — the Melbourne firm responsible for the likes of wine bar Marion, Cutler & Co's recent makeover and Jardan's Melbourne and Brisbane stores — has transformed the two-storey art deco building once home to Ariel Booksellers into a seriously good-looking showroom, where colour reigns supreme. Reflecting Jardan's own 30-year connection with Australian home life, the interiors of the new store pay homage to the country's most influential art and design families, inspired by their iconic interpretations of Sydney's ever-changing colour palette. To that end, expect tones that speak to the vivid blues of Brett Whiteley's Sydney Harbour painting, the oranges, blues and greens synonymous with Louise Olsen and Stephen Ormandy's Dinosaur Designs, and the bold colours favoured by celebrated interior designer Marion Hall Best. The store — which is their first in Sydney — will leave design buffs with their jaw on the floor. Even if you're not in the market for some expensive new designer furniture, if you're in Sydney, it's well worth dropping in for a peek.
Forget those floury and dry monstrosities — Opus Coffee Brewers' muffins are glorious and come in flavours like strawberries and cream or caramelised peach, almond and white chocolate. The hip local coffee spot opened on Keira Street in 2016. Fair warning: seating is limited, so be prepared to wait. There's a communal table out the back and a few bench seats, too. Or takeaway — most of the menu is easily transportable. Opus uses Single O for its house blend for milk coffees and rotates its black coffee roast weekly. Tuck in to a hearty meal from the vegetarian-friendly menu, including a house-made bagel topped with Nutella and sea salt or haloumi, fried egg, jalapeño jam and green; a brekkie bowl with poached eggs, sesame black rice and kimchi; or, gluten free granola with coconut yoghurt. Images: Melanie Cox
You simply cannot go to Barrington Tops without spending significant amounts of time in the massive national park — for which it is perhaps best known. There's a lot of ground to cover — literally — so we recommend doing an overnight hike to explore this diverse terrain. The best way to see as much as you can is to start on the Gloucester River walking track, where you'll see the majestic namesake river (pictured above), deep gullies and impressive views, as well as all manner of native wildlife. Make sure you pack lunch and something to swim in, as you'll have access to idyllic spots for riverside picnics and river swims along the way, too. Spend the night surrounded by ancient rainforest in the Gloucester River campground and set off the next morning on the Sharpes Creek walking track, where you can spot platypus and eastern water dragons. If you're pressed for time (or don't love the idea of camping overnight in the bush), then there are a number of tracks you can easily complete in the space of a day or less. Image: MidCoast Water, Flickr
Leichhardt favourite Golden Gully is no more, with the building previously occupied by the small bar now home to bright neighbourhood cocktail haunt Otis — and its hefty sandwich menu, carefully curated drinks list and all-star bar team. Behind the welcoming drinking hole is Conor O'Brien and Dan Teh. O'Brien has previously worked across a who's who of acclaimed Sydney bars including Baxter Inn, Burrow Bar, Earl's Juke Joint and Tio's Cerveceria, while Teh has been behind the bar at The Little Guy in Glebe for the past four years. Joining them is Kelsey Blacksmith (ex-Baxter Inn, Rosenbaum & Fuller and Doss House), taking charge of Otis' front of house. The space has been kept relatively similar to Golden Gully, with the biggest change being a new bright orange coat of paint. You can still find a sunny streetside spot to enjoy a schooner or hide away with a glass of wine in the newly refurbished upstairs lounge area. The cocktail menu is carefully curated to create a fun mix of standards and intricate creations. Making good use of the team's wide range of mixology experience, the opening menu features plenty of native ingredients, as well as techniques you'd expect from a lavish CBD bar such as foams, fat washing and house fermentation. You can also expect a themed section of the drinks list that is sure to change regularly. Kicking things off is the All Day Brekkie cocktails, including concoctions like a banana bread old fashioned ($22); a tequila, peach, pepperleaf and DOOM JUICE spritz ($19); and the Crunchy Nut ($22) which combines Johnie Walker Black, native black tea, lemon myrtle, Bizzarro, Crunchy Nut cereal, milk and lemon. Accompanying the cocktails is a stocked fridge of natural wines, local craft beers and seltzers, with the ever-evolving vino list placing the spotlight on small, local and inventive producers. On the food menu, sandwiches take pride of place. Highlights include a porchetta roll ($24) utilising pork from Whole Beast Butchery in Marrickville, sun-blushed mayo and salsa verde; and a whopping seven-cheese toastie ($17) brought to life with truffle mayo and pickled red onion. Head in on a Sunday and you can cure your sore head from the night before with the bar's bloody mary and toastie combo for just $20. That's not the only deal you'll nab here on Norton Street. There's also a sizeable happy hour running from 5–7pm Tuesday–Saturday. Across these two hours five days a week, all pints are available for schooner prices, and two of Sydney's absolute favourite cocktails — negronis and Tommy's margaritas — are both available for just $12.
Three Blue Ducks has expanded its collection of ever-popular farm-to-table eateries with a new road trip-worthy regional restaurant. Following the opening of a Snowy Mountains outpost in 2020 (and closures of its Brisbane restaurant and original Bronte cafe), the hospitality group has now turned its attention to the New South Wales mid-north coast to showcase the area's renowned produce at a venue in Bellingen. The new addition to the Three Blue Ducks family is located at scenic Bellingen hotel The Lodge, expanding the group's current slate of locations to five alongside Rosebery, Byron Bay, Melbourne and Nimbo. Located on the hotel's 16-acre gardens surrounded by Dorrigo National Park, the 180-seat restaurant (80 indoors and 100 outside) offers all of the hallmarks of Three Blue Ducks with a menu that favours bold, spice-packed dishes. The Three Blue Ducks crew has been working with a range of local suppliers including Levenvale Farms, The Patch Organics, Nautical Wholesale Seafood, Coffs Coast Mushrooms, Promised Land Organics, Jilly Wines and Woolgoolga Brewing to pull together a menu that places the spotlight on the best beef, seafood, chicken, vegetables and drinks that the region has to offer. The all-day restaurant will kick things off early on Saturdays and Sundays with Single O coffee, plus brekkie favourites like the restaurant group's beloved granola, bacon and egg rolls, avocado and roasted mushroom toast, and cocktails like lychee mimosas and cherry blossom spritzes. From there, Bellingen locals, hotel guests and tourists alike can settle in for a flavour-packed lunch or dinner, with a hefty a la carte selection available alongside a series of set menus. There's a prominent Asian influence throughout the menu, with dumplings and bao on offer as starters, salt and Szechuan pepper squid, and prawn toast available on the smaller plates; cauliflower curry on the mains; and a chocolate yuzu eclair ready to round out your meal. Other highlights diners can expect at Three Blue Ducks Bellingen include beef tartare with chilli oil and togarashi; lemon, lime and sour plum duck; ponzu-topped oysters; flank steak with citrus butter and curry leaf; and miso caramel cheesecake. "The inspiration behind the menu came from ingredients growing around the area," says co-owner Darren Robertson. "We've always loved working with spice, lemongrass, ginger, chilli, makrut, etc — and after working closely with the local producers and farmers, we've created a menu for the Bello restaurant that showcases these flavours." There's also a separate functions menu, with the Three Blue Ducks team working with The Lodge to offer private events and catering for weddings. The Lodge boasts 30 individual rooms, luxury glamping options, a pool with day beds and a bar, and five alpacas that wander the gardens. Reservations for the restaurant are open now. Find Three Blue Ducks Bellingen at The Lodge, 1381 Waterfall Way, Bellingen — open for dinner Monday–Sunday, lunch Friday–Sunday and breakfast Saturday–Sunday. Images: Steven Woodburn.
A death-defying aerial work that's designed to bring attention to climate change, an inflatable dreamscape filled with glowing six-metre-high sculptures, an audio adventure that you can only listen to in a pool, and a physical theatre show that unleashes skaters and BMX riders on a half-pipe: Sydneysiders, that's all headed your way. So is a musical set to Bob Dylan's songs and a theatre show that doubles as a rave. The reason? The massive 2022 Sydney Festival lineup, which has just been announced in all its glory. When Thursday, January 6 rolls around, all of these highlights and more will form part of the massive 2022 Sydney Festival lineup, which is bringing 133 events to spaces all around the city for 25 days until Sunday, January 30. That includes performances, shows, gigs, installations and more across Sydney's stages, screens, parks, ferry rides, the Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool and at a new 1000-seat pop-up site in Cathedral Square — because a major citywide arts festival should sprawl absolutely everywhere it can around town. From the aforementioned highlights, Airship Orchestra shines brightest — literally. Already a hit in both Adelaide and Brisbane, the installation from ENESS is all about towering, luminous, bulbous shapes that come complete with a choir score. If you're after jaw-dropping displays that make a statement, however, you'll find that at THAW by Legs On the Wall. It'll lift a 2.7-tonne sculpted block of ice a whopping 20 metres above Sydney Harbour — at the foot of Sydney Opera House, no less — and task one daring performer with standing atop it for ten hours a day, all as the ice melts. [caption id="attachment_832872" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Shane Rozario[/caption] Also among the standouts is Floors of Heaven: Submersive Study, a soundscape — or 'sonic tapestry', as Sydney Festival calls it — that's designed by UK producer Leon Vynehall. It'll echo across the Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool and yes, you'll listen to it while you're splashing around. Musical Girl From the North Country was initially announced back in October, but is still one of Sydney Festival's major shows. And if you only see one BMX-fuelled performance, make it DEMO in Parramatta's Century Square. If you only take one trip into the history of Sydney's queer nightlife, too, make it the dance party-meets-theatre show that is Qween Lear at Hordern Pavilion. Other Sydney Festival must-sees include the entire lineup at Cathedral Square, at the 1000-seat pop-up dubbed Speakers Corner. That's where you'll be able to enjoy gigs by Amyl and The Sniffers, Gordi, King Stingray, Jaguar Jonze, Tropical Fuck Storm, Washington and more — plus a Radiohead for Solo Piano performance by Josh Cohen. It'll also host lively discussions each Sunday, to truly live up to its name. Fans of The Cat Empire will want to head to Parramatta Park for the band's final Sydney performance with its original line-up — playing for a 12,000-capacity crowd. Also epic: a contemporary corroboree by Bangarra Dance Theatre and Sydney Theatre Company, which'll feature 17 dancers, four musicians and five actors. [caption id="attachment_832879" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Victor Frankowski[/caption] Elsewhere, Jake Nash will unveil his large-scale artwork Future Dreaming on Barangaroo's Star Gazers Lawn, Acoustic Life of Boatsheds will take you on a ferry ride to listen to performances inspired by the boatsheds and waterways, and 宿 (stay) will combine a concert, ceremony and storytelling — in a tale of two skeletons and three women. There's also Nat Randall and Anna Brecko's Set Piece, a theatre-film experiment that unpacks queer relationships; Darlinghurst Theatre Company's new production of iconic musical A Chorus Line; and a race-conscious Australian reimagining of Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? by First Nations director and actor Margaret Harvey — plus Chunky Move's new dance production Yung Lung, and Prehistoric Picnic, a puppetry dinosaur zoo at the Royal Botanic Garden that's obviously for audiences of all ages. Sydney Festival's 2022 program marks the first under new artistic director Olivia Ansell, and also spans the return of several long-running favourites, such as Parramatta Park's Sydney Symphony Under the Stars and Barangaroo's First Nations-focused The Vigil: Songs for Tomorrow. Sydney Festival 2022 runs from Thursday, January 6–Sunday, January 30 at venues across the city. For further details and to buy tickets, visit the Sydney Festival website. Tickets go on sale at 9am on Wednesday, November 17. Top image: Ben Weinstein.
Just as summer kicks into gear, Sydneysiders now have another excuse to hit the water, with GoBoat finally splashing into the city. Since 2014, the Denmark-born company has been busy launching its eco-friendly picnic boats all over Europe, as well as in Canberra, Melbourne, the Gold Coast and Brisbane — and now, from Wednesday, December 15, it's sailing up the Parramatta River from Cabarita Point as well. Aimed at making the whole boating caper more accessible for everyday folk, the Scandinavian-designed vessels are slow-moving, a breeze to operate and don't require a boating licence, making for some fun, fuss-free sailing sessions. In a win for the planet, they also run on silent, pollution-free, electric engines, and are crafted from a mix of reclaimed timber and recycled PET bottles. Each of the contemporary GoBoats clocks in at 18-feet long, boasting a central picnic table with room for eight people (and all the necessary snacks and booze). And despite what you might be thinking, they're even affordable enough to fit your budget — simply BYO food and drinks, find enough eager sailors to jump aboard and a GoBoat session will you less than $17 per person, per hour. That's $129 hourly in total. [caption id="attachment_701554" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Lean Timms[/caption] Available to hire for up to five hours at a time, GoBoat's Sydney fleet can sail as far as Cockatoo Island — and before you hit the water, you'll receive a safety briefing and demonstration. All boats are speed-limited, too, and obviously decked out with safety equipment including life jackets. The vesssels are family-friendly and, in even more exciting news, they're also pet-friendly. Surely you've got a very good boy who deserves a river jaunt this summer. Find GoBoat Sydney at Cabarita Point, 138 Cabarita Road, Cabarita. For more information or to make a booking, visit the service's website.
It's the orchestra, Jim, but not as we know it. ACO Underground is the temporary stage name of the Australian Chamber Orchestra, which is reforming as an electro-acoustic collective for one night only. Next Sunday Australia's most talented classical musicians will be swapping the concert hall for the beer-stained stage of New York loft-style venue The Standard. With the assistance of former Midnight Oil guitarist Jim Moginie, they'll be playing a setlist more pleasantly bizarre than when Nelly and Tim McGraw teamed up in 2004. And, ranging from Radiohead's dreamy rock and Nick Drake's melancholy folk to the spellbinding Italian baroque of Vivaldi, the evening will traverse across as many decades as it will genres. Clearly this is not your average gig, so don't be thinking you can take the 7pm doors time as an invitation to rock up three hours later. Preceding the show will be a video montage installation by surf cinematographer Jon Frank, projected onto the walls and set to specially chosen audio, and that's an opening act you don't want to miss. To win a double pass to ACO Underground, just make sure you're subscribed to Concrete Playground then email us at hello@concreteplayground.com.au
There are two things that every Sydneysider knows to be true. First: climbing the Harbour Bridge is a rite of passage that everyone must experience at least once in their lifetime (or multiple times — who's stopping you?). And second: Vivid Sydney is crazy busy. Chaotic crowds are an inevitable by-product of the city's vibrant festival of art, music and ideas. But, now in its tenth year, Vivid's lineup is as epic and unmissable as ever. If you want to get among the action but mingling with the masses is not really your jam, we have the perfect solution. BridgeClimb is again running its Vivid Climb experience. Ascending the iconic landmark, you will get access to one of the best vantage points from which to take in the harbour light show. This year, installations will extend from Circular Quay to Barangaroo, Darling Harbour and Luna Park. But the altitude doesn't equal a lack of atmosphere with BridgeClimb installing a multi-coloured dance floor at the summit. As the harbour puts on a show below, you and your mates will don flashing vests and throw a legendary dance party on the 70s-style illuminated platform. Not only will you be ticking two Sydney must-dos off your list, you'll also get to do it while busting some sweet moves. The Vivid Climb experience is taking place on all night climbs between Friday, May 24 and Saturday, June 15, and we have a double pass to give away. To be in the running, enter your details below. If you don't win, nab a ticket here. [competition]717330[/competition]
Got a greasy pizza box that you can't recycle? Hold on to it, as you'll soon have a chance to put it to good use. That's because Pizza Hut is hosting its first-ever nationwide free pizza exchange, taking over stores across the country from 4–7pm on Friday, November 21, and celebrating the launch of their garlic and cheddar golden stuffed crust. Representing the latest evolution in Pizza Hut's ever-popular crust upgrade, this brand-new offering features a generous blend of cheddar cheese combined with signature hot dust garlic seasoning. Making for a golden, crispy finish that adds a whole new element to your slice, expect serious cheese pulls with every bite. With the prospect of free pizza almost impossible to resist, this fun-loving exchange will be up and running in four states. In NSW, head to Pizza Hut Surry Hills and Pizza Hut Waterloo, whereas QLD fans can visit Pizza Hut Forest Lake and Pizza Hut Runaway Bay. Meanwhile, Victorians can visit Pizza Hut South Melbourne, as those in WA are invited to complete the swap at Pizza Hut Morley. "Pizza Hut has always been about fun, flavour and innovation, and we wanted to give Aussies a reason to fall back in love with our crusts," says Pizza Hut Australia's Chief Marketing Officer, Wendy Leung. "The new Golden Stuffed Crust delivers on all three." If you decide to swing by your nearest exchange, the equation is simple. Just hand over a pizza box from any rival brand and walk out with a steaming hot Pizza Hut Golden Stuffed Crust Pepperoni Pizza. Why a rival? Well, the idea is that Pizza Hut is the only place to get the real deal when it comes to stuffed crust pizza that never misses the mark. Says Leung: "The Get Stuffed Free Pizza Exchange brings that spirit to life by giving people the chance to trade in their pizza frustrations for something they'll actually love." The Pizza Hut Get Stuffed Free Pizza Exchange is happening at various store locations around Australia from 4–7pm on Friday, November 21. Head to the website for more information. Images: supplied
Originally opened for business in 1824, The Australian Heritage Hotel retains the honour of being the oldest continuously licensed pub in Sydney. Always pleasantly packed with bar-goers, it's best to arrive here early — especially if you're looking for a round of two-up on ANZAC Day. Cosy, with much of its old-fashioned décor intact, the Australian is wedged onto the end of Cumberland Street in the Rocks, practically next to the iconic Harbour Bridge. It's the perfect location to enjoy an after-work cold beer from the pub's long and varied list of options. With a lengthy tradition of premium drinks, plus a killer view, it doesn't get much better than the Australian. Image: Alana Dimou.
Bondi doesn't have a shortage of places to brunch, so if you're going to get in on the game, the stakes are high. You'll be betting your best breakfast bowls and baked eggs, and training like a madman to make sure your milk frothing skills are honed to a tee; locals will be willing to take a chance on you, but they won't show any faith until you've had some consistent wins. With this in mind, you've got to wonder why you'd want to sign up at all. But The Nine, having opened earlier this month, is fresh out on the field — and they seem to be playing the game correctly. They're a Bondi cafe in every sense of the word: the menu is mostly organic, locally-sourced and healthy, the interior is blonde, blue and open. It's small, but it doesn't feel too cramped — although you may have trouble getting a spot on a sunny Sunday morning. This possibly has something to do with the dishes being churned out of the kitchen. They're so damn pretty, the plating up alone deserves some kind of award. Just try to walk past without the nine grain Bircher — which is topped with bright slices of mango and edible flowers ($14) — or the crazy colourful mountain of toast with avo, tomato, stone fruit, ricotta and pesto ($15) catching your eye. The scrambled eggs with kale, feta and perfect-crunch broccoli ($18) is a great breakfast choice, if not a little exxy with just one piece of toast on the plate. Similarly, the basic shakshouka comes in a bit high at $18 — especially considering it's an extra $3 just to add chorizo. Lunch lends itself to seafood, with a prawn and crab brioche burger on the menu, along with some beetroot-cured salmon which is a very pleasant colour indeed (both $18). And while you can get a very good Five Senses coffee, you're also able to order from the mostly biodynamic wine list. Service wasn't exactly as well refined as the well-designed dishes. On our visit, we were forgotten about multiple times and had a considerable wait for food, even with the space being quite small and not that busy. It's a sore point amongst some really good ones — but with Lox Stock & Barrel just up the road and Brown Sugar around the corner, there's stiff competition. With hopes to open for dinner in the near future, The Nine might still be finding their prime position.
Those intricately drawn cityscapes seen in anime movies will be front and centre at a new exhibition presented by The Japan Foundation, Sydney from next month. Running from June 2 until August 11, Anime Architecture celebrates the hand-drawn backdrops and architectural world-building of some of Japan's most iconic animated sci-fi flicks. The exhibition will explore the processes that go into bringing these dreamed-up environments to life, capturing the journey from pencil drawings through to those dramatic big screen stills. Get up close and personal with animations by legends of the scene, including Takashi Watabe, Hiromasa Ogura, Haruhiko Higami, Atsushi Takeuchi and Mamoru Oshii. Their resumes include the likes of Patlabor: the Movie, Ghost in the Shell (the original, not the live-action remake) and Ghost in the Shell 2: Innocence, all of which feature in the showcase — as well as behind-the-scenes perspectives on other acclaimed Japanese films such as Osamu Tezuka's Metropolis. The exhibition is set to be accompanied by an event program, which will be revealed in the coming weeks. Catch Anime Architecture at The Japan Foundation, Sydney, at Level 4 Central Park, 28 Broadway, Chippendale. It'll run from June 2 - August 11, with an opening reception on Friday, June 1.
The iconic 'grapes on the roof' restaurant (otherwise known as Chinese Noodle House) has opened a new venue on Enmore Road and, like its Haymarket location, it's all about the dumplings — and, of course, the plastic grapes hanging from the ceiling. (That special braised eggplant is pretty excellent, too.) The steamed and pan-fried goodness here comes in gigantic portions and every parcel is handmade. Once you've stuffed yourself to satisfaction, head to nearby Holey Moley for a bit of late-night putting without the swarming crowds. Opt for nine or 18 holes, and get ready for a pop culture overload — every hole of this mini-golf course is themed within an inch of its life. Putt across the Simpson's living room, through a Mouse Trap-like contraption and into the 'nine-iron throne'. It's as crazy — and incredible — as it sounds.
Inviting everyone over to enjoy your sun-drenched courtyard on a Friday evening seemed like a brilliant idea at the time — it's certainly more relaxed than cramming into a busy city rooftop bar and more summery than sipping cocktails in a dark, underground basement bar. But now that your friends are due round any moment, do you have your drinks repertoire ready? Here to help you, we've got five easy-to-make cocktail recipes that'll upgrade your home bar and hosting skills — and you won't have to spend all your time in the kitchen making them, either. Spruce up your evening get-together with the world's finest French vodka, Grey Goose, which we've partnered with to showcase three vodka cocktails and two non-alcoholic options that your friends and workmates will love. GREY GOOSE ESPRESSO MARTINI In 1983 a model sauntered into a London bar and uttered the phrase "I want something to wake me up and fuck me up", and the espresso martini was born. Thirty-six years later and the caffeinated cocktail has risen to cult status. To make things easier on you, this recipe uses cold drip coffee so you don't have to worry about making a fresh espresso for each round. — 30ml Grey Goose Original — 30ml De Kuyper Crème de Café coffee liqueur — 30ml cold drip coffee — 1 pinch of salt (serves one) Shake all the ingredients, hard, in Boston tins with lots of ice till the outside is frosty. Double strain into a martini glass. Garnish with coffee beans or chocolate dust. Everyone'll be pepped for the night ahead in no time. [caption id="attachment_750115" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Camille Vidal, La Maison Wellness[/caption] HEALTH YEAH Not everyone drinks alcohol — and having a non-boozy option makes you a considerate host. This refreshingly light iced tea needs a little pre-planning, so you'll have to batch-make the tea and syrup the night before. Then, come Friday afternoon, you can to knock one of these together in no time. — 120ml roobois tea — 80ml kombucha — 20ml turmeric honey syrup — 2 dashes of lemon essential oil (serves one) Use cold water to infuse the tea as it'll avoid bitterness and tannins; add ten grams of roobois tea for every one litre of mineral water and leave to infuse overnight. Strain and keep it in the fridge. To make the syrup, use three tablespoons of turmeric honey and one tablespoon of golden unrefined sugar with 350ml of water. Add all ingredients in a saucepan, bring to boiling point and stir for one-to-two minutes until dissolved. Remove from heat and allow syrup to cool. Build the cocktail over ice in a highball, give a gentle stir to mix ingredients and garnish with a lemon wedge. SPIKED ICE TEA Thought that last one sounded good? How about having an iced tea with an extra kick? Forget woeful Long Islands and upgrade to this delicious and balanced Grey Goose version which includes a fruity twist of apricot brandy. — 30ml Grey Goose Original — 20ml apricot brandy — 20ml lemon juice — 90ml cold earl grey tea — 10ml sugar syrup Just like the boozeless option above, prep the tea overnight and brew with cold water to avoid any bitter tannin taste. Build the cocktail over ice in a highball, give a gentle stir to mix ingredients and garnish with a lemon wedge. Easy peasy! BOOZELESS GINGER MOJITO Who said drinkers had to have all the fun and flavour? When you want to take time off the sauce, or cater for guests who do, opt for this gently spiced but super-fresh non-alcoholic mojito. As a bonus you can show off your muddling skills to impress your mates. — 22ml fresh lime juice — 15ml sugar syrup — 3 wedges of fresh lime — 2cm of fresh peeled ginger — 12 fresh mint leaves — top with soda water (serves one) Muddle lime wedges, mint leaves and ginger with the sugar syrup and lime juice. Add crushed ice and churn before topping with soda water. Look at you go! ROSE SPRITZ Make like you're in the south of France with this gently fizzy, and oh-so pink cocktail that practically begs to be sipped outdoors on a terrace surrounded by your besties. — 30ml Grey Goose Original — 20ml Martini Bianco — 10ml Monin watermelon syrup — 15ml lemon juice — 45ml soda (serves one) Build all the ingredients over ice in a collins glass and top with soda water. Garnish with a lemon wedge. Then upload a pic to Instagram to make sure everyone knows you can make such a fine looking drink. Upgrade your Friday night at home by choosing premium vodka Grey Goose. Each bottle is distilled in France, and the high quality vodka has a 100 percent traceable production process, from crop to cork.
There's a new kid on the block — literally. 107 Projects has found its latest home in South Eveleigh, the stylish up-and-coming inner-city suburb. The not-for-profit organisation has launched this site in partnership with the Social Enterprise Council of NSW, ACT (SECNA) and with support from Commbank. Davy Road has welcomed the third all-encompassing creative centre from 107 Projects, following in the footsteps of its previously established locations in Green Square and Redfern. The independent organisation hopes to nurture an inclusive venue accommodating diversity, social equity, artistic endeavours and local community values. Operating as an open-plan innovation precinct, the hub is set to host an array of community-focused initiatives, including community programs, corporate events, exhibitions and cultural festivals, much like at its sibling hubs. 107 South Eveleigh can accommodate up to 200 guests and is available to hire for all creativity-centred events, from smaller initiatives to larger-scale entertainment and everything in between. The first project on the books is the 'Free Feed' program, a relaxed event encouraging locals to enjoy some stress-free time to themselves, which will occur fortnightly. To kick off the initiative, 107 South Eveleigh will host its launch event — including catering — on Thursday, September 13, to coincide with R U OK Day. "Along with our shared values, we've partnered with SECNA so together we can grow organisations that prioritise community, inclusivity, social responsibility, and diversity while expanding our reach to as many humans as possible with our social impact programs," said Jess Cook, CEO of 107 Projects Inc. With the addition of SECNA's residency program operating throughout its rooms, the sleek newcomer aims to become the 'social enterprise heartbeat' of the area by directly catering to its surrounding community and their needs. The flexible space will maintain a focus on South Eveleigh's ongoings within a five-kilometre radius of its location to inform its upcoming community-centric projects, which will hone in on bettering wellness, greenery and recreational spaces. Plus, the additional support from CommBank will assist in providing an improved and affordable stomping ground for the locals to enjoy. All image credit: Rhiannon Hopely Photography. You'll find the innovation-forward 107 precinct at Level 1/2 Davy Road in South Eveleigh.
Remember in school how art, music and dance lessons were seamlessly integrated into the compulsory curriculum? We didn't know how lucky we were. All we had to do was rock up to class and various cultural pursuits were handed to us. Although admittedly, getting through maths was a bit of a chore, we were spoiled with easy access to the paintbrush and egg shakers. Learning a new skill requires a bit more research and effort as we get older, but fortunately the Redfern Community Centre offers an impressive array of classes throughout the week to try your hand at. Join a group singing class on Tuesdays from 5-6pm, stay on for a DJ workshop from 6-9pm, hit a beginner's ballroom class on 9.30am Monday morning, or spend Saturday morning learning about Indigenous art. Two hour parking applies in the Redfern area, so if you're planning on staying for longer than that, it's worth getting the train. There are a litany of options to choose from, so check the website schedule and get inspired. Unless stated otherwise, they're all free.
Haymarket hole-in-the-wall Mr Chen Beef Noodle is serving up steaming hot bowls of Lanzhou-style, hand-stretched noodles and Shanghai-style dumplings on the daily. Apart from the signature beef noodle — which comes topped with sliced radish, green garlic and coriander — you can choose from a heap of other versions, too. One is topped with pickled cabbage, another is filled with pork and chicken wontons and a third is served with slow-cooked beef brisket and fresh chilli. They arrive with your choice of five freshly made noodle types, which range from extra thin to super thick biang biang-style. Mr Chen sells plenty of well-trodden Chinese dishes, too — including numerous varieties of fried rice and heaps of stir-fried veggies, plus mapo tofu, sweet and sour pork and kung pao chicken.
Imagine a place where cheese reigns supreme, other than in your own kitchen. Imagine more than 100 different varieties on offer for the tasting. Imagine being able to sample whatever you liked from this dairy feast, too. And, picture just buying one ticket to devour all the cheddar, brie, camembert, raclette and whichever other cheeses take your fancy. Is this the real life? It isn't just a cheesy fantasy at Australian dairy festival Mould, which started making cheese-loving dreams come true in 2017. In 2024, it's not only returning — it's back for its biggest festivals yet, including for three days in Sydney at Carriageworks in Eveleigh across Friday, July 26–Sunday, July 28. If you're a cheese fiend, then you'll know that there's only one suitable way to tuck into the beloved dairy product: all the time, or at least as much as possible. As presented by Revel — who are also the organisers of Pinot Palooza — that's an idea that Mould not only understands but encourages, celebrating the mild, hard and soft bites made by Australia's best cheese wizards. There won't just be a few cheeses on the menu. More than 100 artisan cheeses from around the country will be ready and waiting, spanning dairy from around 27 producers. In past years, that lineup has included Bruny Island Cheese Co, Grandvewe, Milawa Cheese, Yarra Valley Dairy and Stone & Crow, as well as Section 28, Red Cow Organics, Nimbin Valley Cheese, Dreaming Goat, Long Paddock Cheese and Second Mouse Cheese. Alongside unlimited tastings of Australia's best cheeses — snacking on samples is included in your ticket, but you'll then pay extra to purchase slices and slabs to take home with you — the fest features cooking demonstrations, masterclasses and talks. Courtesy of 2024's The Grate Cheese Commission, a range of cheeses created solely for the fest will also tempt your tastebuds. This year's events will include more of the foodstuffs that pair extremely well with cheese, too, such as olives, crackers and conserves. It wouldn't be a cheese festival without beverages to wash it all down with, so expect a bar serving Aussie wines, whisky, vodka, gin, beer, cider, cocktails and sake, all of which match nicely to a bit of cheese. Archie Rose and Hartshorn will be among the tipples featured.
When searching for great weekend getaway destinations near Sydney, Lake Macquarie is always high on the list. To the east, you've got 167 kilometres of shoreline and a bunch of quaint coastal towns. And out west, you'll find dramatic mountains and waterfalls within Watagans National Park. To help get you and a bunch of your mates to the most lavish parts of Lake Macquarie, we teamed up with the wonderfully opulent 8 at Trinity to create the ultimate weekend travel package that's worth over $2,700. It includes an $800 voucher to spend on food and drinks at 8 at Trinity as well as a two-night stay at Luxe Terrace for up to eight guests. Grab a seat within the grand pavilion that looks out over the Trinity Point Marina and the surrounding lawns and enjoy an extra special lunch or dinner out with your favourite people. This place is next-level glam, feeling as if it's been plucked right from The Great Gatsby. There really is no place like it in Australia. Use the voucher to splurge on premium seafood platters (adding a few lobsters for good measure), wagyu beef steaks and all manners of cocktails and champagne. And once you've finished treating yourselves to a proper feast, wander on over to your luxury terrace — conveniently located right next to 8 at Trinity — to fall into a deep food coma. During the rest of your stay, you and your mates will also get complimentary use of the accommodation's electric bikes and canoes, so you can explore as much of the area as you can. Alternatively, head just outside the restaurant to hire flight boards or even organise a scenic sailing trips around Lake Macquarie at your own expense. To enter, simply watch this exciting video of 8 at Trinity and answer the question below correctly. [embed]https://youtu.be/-3n8WCHwE84[/embed] Not the lucky winner? Worry not. You can still book yourself a table via the 8 at Trinity website. [competition]898983[/competition]
This year, Moonlight Cinema isn't just returning to Centennial Park. The always-popular outdoor cinema is also heading to western Sydney for the first time. Taking over the Lizard Log Amphitheatre from January 1–February 2, it'll be screening new flicks, retro favourites and some of the best films from 2019. So, roll out your picnic blanket, sit under the stars and stare up at the big screen to watch newly released movies like Rocketman, Hustlers, Joker, Ford v Ferrari, Knives Out, Cats, Star Wars: Episode IX — The Rise of Skywalker and Charlie's Angels. Going retro, the outdoor cinema will revisit last year's A Star Is Born and 90s perennial favourite 10 Things I Hate About You. Dirty Dancing is also on the bill, like it is at all its pop-ups every year — it wouldn't be a Moonlight without it. [caption id="attachment_697750" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Moonlight Cinema Sydney[/caption] You can bring your pooch to the openair cinema (but they need to remain on a leash at all times) and BYO food and drink (yes, including booze) is OK, too. If you forget, there's also a licenced bar and candy shop on site stocked with all the classic cinema treats. Gates open at 7pm with movies starting at sundown (around 8.30pm).
Sydneysiders, it's time to get excited: the world-renowned Lune Croissanterie is opening two pastry-filled stores in the Harbour City. The bakery chain had already announced its upcoming Sydney duo, confirming a Darlinghurst locale in 2023 and also announcing a Martin Place spot. But now, that initial Darlinghurst plans have been scrapped, with Lune set to open its flagship in Rosebery instead. Lune Sydney's first location will swing open its doors at the Rosebery Engine Yards at 115/152 Dunning Avenue in the city's inner south. The space will take aesthetic cues from Lune's flagship Fitzroy outpost in Melbourne, drawing on its industrial-leaning interiors for design inspiration. "Due to unforeseen delays with Darlinghurst, we've shifted to a new location in order to keep our plans on track and honour our commitment to bring the Lune experience to Sydney in 2024," said Lune founder Kate Reid. "The Rosebery site aligns perfectly with our vision, and we're excited to have that opening in sight." The Rosebery location is currently undergoing its Lune-style transformation ahead of its opening. As for the Martin Place store, that still has the green light on operations and is also underway. An opening date for the Rosebery spot hasn't been announced as yet. As for Martin Place, both the metro tower and Lune are expected to open later in 2024. It's been a big decade-plus for the brand, after starting out as a tiny store in Melbourne's Elwood back in 2012. Since then, Lune has expanded into a converted warehouse space in Fitzroy (with perpetual lines out the front), opened more stores in Melbourne and also launched in Brisbane in 2021. And, amid all that, it was even dubbed "the finest you will find anywhere in the world" by The New York Times. Lune Croissanterie's flagship Sydney store will open at 115/151 Dunning Avenue, Rosebery in 2024. It'll join the brand's second Sydney store, which is expected to open at 1 Elizabeth Street, Martin Place at some point this year.
A new diner drawing inspiration from Southeast Asian street food and fine dining is opening at The Star today, Tuesday, August 23. Rumble comes from experienced chef Benjamin Tan who is pulling from the flavours of his childhood and his time spent in various kitchens across Asia to present a menu that blends Malaysian, Indonesian and Singaporean cuisine. Take a seat in Rumble's dining room and you'll be greeted by a playfully sleek fit-out. There are hand-painted animal murals stretching across the walls and the bar is decorated with hundreds of real mahjong tiles. Once you've settled in, you'll be faced with the challenge of traversing the menu filled with a heap of must-try dishes. Rumble wants diners to experience a range of flavours, designing its menu to highlight the sweet, the salty, the spicy and the sour. Standouts from the starters include baked scallops with a Vietnamese herb garnish, barbecue pork belly boa and rice paper rolls filled with fresh lobster and topped with salmon roe. From there the mains pose more questions. You could go the seafood route, opting for wok-tossed pipis in a spicy shrimp sauce, chilli king crab bao and seafood sapo mee — crispy egg noodles topped with spicy crab meat, jumbo prawns and scallions. Or, get meaty with lime-infused Nyonya chicken, soy-braised pork neck and 48-hour rendang black angus short ribs marinated in the spices of a traditional Malaysian stew. There are also plenty of vegetarian options. Crispy fried tofu, mixed market vegetable cap cai, a vegetable-heavy green curry and a vegetarian iteration of the crispy sapo mee. The vibrancy of the venue is further reflected in the drinks menu. There's a refreshing gin and lychee cocktail or a salty twist on the espresso martini made with Thai spiced coffee. Diners can also play cocktail roulette, in which they choose from a deck of coasters labelled sweet, salty, spicy or sour and are given a mystery cocktail from the bartender. Rumble joins the likes of Sokyo, Flying Fish, ELE and Mashi No Mashi at The Star, adding to its variety of dining options alongside the Sydney Lyric Theatre. Rumble opens Tuesday, August 23 at The Star Sydney, Level G, Harbourside, 80 Pyrmont Street, Pyrmont. Images: Steven Woodburn
While Vivid's annual celebrations will be taking over Circular Quay and Tumbalong Park in May, Western Sydney residents who don't want to battle the public transport and huge crowds can rejoice — Sydney Zoo's festival of lights is returning for its third annual instalment — and its set to be the biggest iteration yet. Glow will take over the Eastern Creek zoo between Friday, May 10 and Saturday, June 15 with a plethora of light installations and activations. Each night between 5.30–10pm, patrons can wander the zoo and discover its revamped Light Walk, which stars a safari of luminous animals and a huge range of interactive installations. Immerse yourself in the dazzling Water Walk, catch the huge lion lantern and keep an eye out for the event's centrepiece, a fiery installation called Ignite. Accompanying the iridescent art will be a KIIS.FM ferris wheel, a vortex tunnel, a maze, carnival rides and glow-in-the-dark golf. Plus, you'll even be able to explore the zoo's aquarium and reptile house after dark. Food trucks will be on-site, as well as a pop-up bar slinging beer, mulled wine and the event's signature cocktail. There's also be eats including deep-fried doughnuts, paella and treats from Enzo's Pizza. The activations have been designed to be mobility-friendly and wheelchair-accessible, with no hills or steps throughout. General admission tickets to the event start at $30 for adults and $25 for children, with infants scoring free entry.
With its exposed brick walls, pendant lighting and leather furnishings, Mr Burrows' fit-out better resembles a bar than a salon. And so does its upstairs 'relaxation station', complete with cheese boards and wine for patrons, plus spritzes on Saturdays. Lounge in large leather slingbacks while getting your hair washed and massaged, then settle in with one of the expert stylists. It offers cuts for both men (from $74) and women (from $115), along with a range of experimental colouring and gradient dyes. Mr Burrows also works with Sustainable Salons, which helps to minimise the salon's footprint. [caption id="attachment_779932" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cassandra Hannagan[/caption] Images: Cassandra Hannagan
Melburnians, you're a mere three hours away from a weekend filled with epicurean adventure in the Victorian High Country. Grab your car keys, because you're going on a road trip out of the dense city and into the wide-open spaces of north-east Victoria — which at this time of year, is tinted a vivid gold as the leaves change colour with the onset of a proper, country autumn. SATURDAY MORNING: BEECHWORTH Your exploration of the High Country starts in the historic town of Beechworth. Grab a country-style breakfast from Beechworth Bakery to set you up for the day, then pick up some of the area's most famous produce from The Honey Shop. After that, it's time to explore the mineral-rich hills around Beechworth, which are home to more than two-dozen vineyards. One-hundred-and-fifty years of wine-growing history in the region have birthed diverse styles, grape varieties and wineries. Visit young guns Vignerons Schmölzer and Brown and Sentio Wines, whose winemakers have worked at prestigious producers both domestically and abroad before striking out on their own to create some of the most exciting drops in the region. Then there's the iconic producers Castagna, who specialise in biodynamically grown fruit, and Sorrenberg, whose iconic Gamay sells out in record speeds every year (their Chardonnay is also worth picking up). Most of the wineries and cellar doors in Beechworth are by appointment only, so book a tour through Beechworth Barrel Tours, who will liaise with your chosen wineries and create a custom itinerary for your morning adventure in wine country. Autumn is a great time to visit, as it is post-vintage when the winery is a little quieter, giving guests the opportunity to taste the wines that are currently fermenting in oak and out of tank. AFTERNOON: BEECHWORTH TO RUTHERGLEN The short half-hour drive between Beechworth and Rutherglen is the perfect opportunity to check out some of the local haunts of the winemakers in the region. Tessa Brown (from Vigneron Schmölzer and Brown) is a fan of Provenance in Beechworth. Built in 1856 (during the height of the gold rush era) this two-hatted restaurant creates contemporary food from quality regional produce with a focus on seasonal awareness. If you want to drive straight through to Rutherglen, your first stop needs to be All Saints Winery and Terrace Restaurant to have one of the best-value meals from a one-hatted restaurant (three courses with matching wines from their estate for only $110 per person). For those wanting something a little more relaxed (and to take advantage of those last warm rays of autumn sunshine), stop in at Campbells Wines. Pick up an iconic Rutherglen fortified wine, along with a locally sourced vineyard platter (featuring cheeses, antipasto and terrines) to feast on at one of the great picnic spots on the banks of Lake Moodemere. For late-afternoon tipples, check out local winemaker Simon Killeen's (from Simao and Co) favourite wine bar, Thousand Pound, for the best wines the region has to offer (plus some classics from further afield). RUTHERGLEN But where to rest your head after a full day of vinous activities? Rutherglen offers you the best of both worlds. Grapevine Glamping at Cofield Estate allows you to stay in the midst of a real working winery and vineyard while enjoying all the comforts of home. The king-size-bed canvas bell tent (complete with split system heating and cooling) comes with wine and the option to cook your own meal in the fully equipped camp kitchen or order up a vineyard platter to feast on while you enjoy the fire pit just outside your tent. For those who like their accommodation with a side of luxury and history, Mount Ophir boasts 360-degree views of Rutherglen, including the Murray River Basin and the Victorian Alps to the east from its incredible 'tower room'. Here you stay over three floors in a French provincial-styled tower, with a spiral staircase that leads to the private sitting room on the second floor and a luxurious bedroom suite and marble bathroom on the top floor. SUNDAY MORNING: MILAWA Here is your chance to work off all the food from Saturday's gluttony. Cycle through the autumnal foliage and pass cellar doors and farms on the Milawa Gourmet Ride (the morning hours of autumn are the perfect time of year to cycle around, as it's not too hot). Hire a bike in town or borrow one from Brown Brothers Winery and stop in at their fantastic cellar door for a morning coffee and a couple of bottles of their Patricia sparkling wine to go. Grab yourself a map and take the leisurely 10-kilometre ride through the region, stopping in to see as many cellar doors, farm gates and gourmet food stores as you like before ending up at self-confessed cycling addict Sam Miranda's joint, the Sam Miranda Winery at Oxley. AFTERNOON: KING VALLEY AND PROSECCO ROAD Complete your journey along the King Valley's 'Prosecco Road' after Brown Brothers and Sam Miranda in the morning with an afternoon visit to Pizzini Wines. The Pizzini family are passionate about family, friends, food and wine. Their vineyards are a mosaic of Italian varietals (like Prosecco, Nebbiolo and Sangiovese), all of which can be enjoyed in their cellar door. You can even try your hand at making some traditional Italian dishes to accompany the wine at Katrina Pizzini's A Tavola cooking school. Then head to Chrismont for inspiring architecture, more Prosecco and an Italian long lunch on the terrace. EVENING: KING VALLEY Stay the night on the homestead where Australia's prosecco vines were first planted (and your last stop on the Prosecco Road), Dal Zotto Cellar Door and Accommodation. Immerse yourself in all things Prosecco by taking part in their 'pick your own Prosecco' adventures. During autumn is when you can witness the drying of the Prosecco grapes to be made into Otto Dal Zotto's 'natural' Prosecco (or 'Col Fondo' style, as they call it). Taste your way through their five different styles of Prosecco at the cellar door before picking your favourite to take back to your accommodation for a nightcap with house-made antipasto and charcuterie. Autumn scenery and produce won't last — to plan your full itinerary in the High Country and explore more of regional Victoria this season, visit the Wander Victoria website.
When you think of goods made out of recycled cardboard, the most common objects that would spring to mind would probably be cereal boxes, toilet paper or drink bottles. A fully-functioning bicycle would most likely not make the top of the list. Yet, now thanks to Israeli bike enthusiast, Izhar Gafni, it will certainly appear somewhere on that list. Gafni has created a bicycle made entirely of recycled cardboard, and all using only $9 of material. The bike functions just like a normal bike, is water resistant and can carry riders of up to a massive 220kg. Despite the material costing between $9-$12 for each bicycle, Gafni is looking to sell his product for $60-$90 a pop, depending on the extra addition of an electrical motor. Nevertheless, this innovative creation is believed to change the world of bicycles by being significantly more eco-friendly and well within consumer's budgets. The inspiration for the recycled bike came after Gafni saw news that an inventor had developed a canoe made from recycled cardboard. Even through the skepticism and doubt he received, Gafni persevered with his idea and three years later achieved what three different engineers had thought to be impossible. Gafni's recycled bicycle has since been made into four different prototypes including one with training wheels for children. He is currently working with investors to establish a company that can produce and distribute his bikes on a global scale.
Beloved Neutral Bay stalwart The Oaks Hotel is currently on market for the first time ever with longstanding owners the Thomas family looking to pass on the pub after nearly 50 years of custodianship. The venue is accepting expressions of interest via JLL Hotels & Hospitality Group with an expected price tag of over $175 million. David Thomas took over ownership of the hotel with help from his mother Alana of the Tooth and Co. brewing company in 1975. Over the next five decades, the pub become one of Sydney's most popular drinking holes, boasting a beloved beer garden situated around an 80-year-old English oak tree. While the bistro has taken many shapes over the years, The Oaks has affirmed itself as a go-to in the area for pub feeds, casual drinks and sporting events. "On the back of a spate of unsolicited approaches it just feels like the right time for the family to move on and we'll leave the Oaks with fond memories and many friends," Andrew Thomas said. "It holds a very special place in the Australian hotel landscape, and we look forward to seeing its next incarnation under the new custodians." JLL's statement on the venue promotes it as a 2188-square-metre space, with 30 poker machines, high-end bottle shop and mixed-use zoning with potential for five-storey development. "It is difficult to imagine any hotel in the country evoking as much emotion, brand heritage and rites of passage than the illustrious Oaks Hotel," JLL Senior Vice President Ben McDonald said. "It's going to be a remarkably fulfilling asset for the next lucky generational owners." The Thomas family also holds ownership of the Winston Hills Hotel and The Entrance Hotel which they will continue to run. Expressions of interest for The Oaks Hotel will close on Tuesday, September 6. The Oaks Hotel is located at 118 Military Road, Neutral Bay. For more information on its sale, contact JLL Hotels & Hospitality Group.
Trying not to think about Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet is about to become impossible in Australia. So will getting Celine Dion's 'My Heart Will Go On' out of your head, where it's dwelled for most people since the Oscar-winning track was released in 1997. The reason: a Titanic exhibition has dropped anchor Down Under and docked at Melbourne Museum until Sunday, April 21. Titanic: The Artefact Exhibition has brought 200-plus items from the shipwreck to the Victorian capital in its Aussie trip after selling out its Paris season and also proving a hit in the US. The pieces on display were legitimately recovered from the vessel's wreck site, too, after the RMS Titanic's ill-fated voyage in April 1912 — aka the events that James Cameron (Avatar: The Way of Water) turned into the DiCaprio (Killers of the Flower Moon)- and Winslet (Ammonite)-starring Titanic more than a quarter-century ago. For everyone bound to exclaim, "I'm the king of the world!" while walking through Titanic: The Artefact Exhibition's Australian-exclusive stop, this is the king of all Titanic exhibitions. In fact, it's the most extensive in the world. As well as seeing the genuine objects from the ship, attendees will wander through full-scale recreations of the vessel's interiors, such as the veranda cafe, first-class parlour suite and grand staircase. In addition to the recovered items and recreations of the Titanic's spaces, the exhibition will tell tales about those onboard the ship that launched its maiden voyage on April 10, 1912, only to sink five days later on April 15, after hitting an iceberg. You'll be able to immerse yourself in the fateful events of that night with interactive exhibits like a touchable iceberg chilled to the temperature of the water the night of the sinking. This exploration of a tragic chapter in history will focus on passengers and crew alike while stepping through the vessel's class divisions and pondering the boat's legacy. Beyond the historical learnings, you can enjoy a Titanic-themed high tea designed by a Michelin-star chef to fully immerse yourself in the era in an elegantly designed lounge. Titanic: The Artefact Exhibition must close on Sunday, April 21. Evening sessions are also available. For more information or to book tickets, visit the website. Images: EMG / Alexandre Schoelcher / Eugene Hyland / Museums Victoria.
As well as being the shopfront to the Funkis Köket Cafe, Funkis boasts an array of high-quality clothing, accessories and glasses that are definitely worth checking out if you're in the area. Just like the cafe's menu is inspired, the approach here is loving, sustainable, and features a timeless, elegant simplicity which will keep you coming back again and again. With spring in full swing, embrace some Nordic vibes with a fun yet functional strappy clog paired paired with a jumpsuit on a warm evening. Or, maybe you'd prefer to bring an outfit together with a pair of stylish and affordable glasses in a wide variety of bold colours. There are also some great bags in both bright florals or simple leathers, embracing both functionality and fashion for all tastes. Image: Funkis
The Chauvel Cinema has been a mainstay of the Sydney's independent cinema scene for more than 40 years — all from the former Paddington Town Hall ballroom. The cinema retains its original art deco-style interior, complete with red plush velvet seating and high arched ceilings. Yes, you'll feel like you're soaking in cinema history. While most movies in most cinemas are projected digitally these days, the Chauvel hosts special sessions using both 35mm and 70mm projection. Take note, those looking to embrace their inner film geek — or anyone keen to spot the difference. The Chauvel has long been famed as one of Sydney's great cinemas, showcasing independent, world and cult cinema in a decadent and luxurious setting reminiscent of the great cinema-going days of old.
