Need a way to keep cool over summer? Swap the beach for epic waterslides and huge inflatable pools at Australia's first mobile waterpark, Waterworld Central Sydney. The family-friendly affair will be taking over Moore Park's Entertainment Quarter for two months, so, as the mercury rises, you and your kids can get your thrills — and stay chilled. Race your mates on the multilane Epic Racer slide, go on an 80-metre water tubing ride or test your courage on the brand new Wave Slide. You can also splash about in one of the many enormous inflatable pools and see what it's like to walk on water by taking a spin on the giant zorb cylinder. Open daily from December 28 right through till January 26 (except New Year's Day), Waterworld Central will ensure you have plenty of outdoor aqua adventures this summer — no matter your age. Of course, there's the global pandemic to be mindful of, so pre-booking tickets is encouraged. Waterworld Central will be open daily from 10am–4pm from December 28–January 26, but will be closed New Year's Day. To pre-book your tickets, head here.
Bangladesh born and raised head chef Tapos Singha (ex Est, Bills, Lucio’s and Gowings) is revisiting his roots, cooking up traditional Bangladeshi street food for Sydney at his brand new venture Bang Street Food. A breezy, exposed-brick heavy space on Surry Hills' Crown Street, the just-opened Bang is filled with Eames-like chairs and long wooden benches to promote solid socialising and sharing. With a bustling open kitchen and plates that spell out the word 'bang', this is one fun new eatery Sydneysiders are sure to jump on. Singha's nibbles include sand-roasted shell peanuts ($2) with all proceeds going to relief aid in Bangladesh — a good start. Then there's traditional starters like the BANG Bhaji (fried fritter, cherry tomato, coconut chutney, $8), Fuska (spiced potato, coriander, green chilli, shaved egg, tamarind water, $8), and a Bengali potato chop with mustard seed and yogurt raita ($8). Smaller sharing plates are on offer, from the elegant cobia tartare with fennel pollen, coriander seed and tapioca pappadam ($22) to a duck egg omelette with blue swimmer crab, green chill, grape tomato and garlic chives ($23). For the seriously hungry, there's ample feasting to be done on the large plates. There's tandoori quail with dutch carrots, eggplant bhorta and pomegranate ($35), Wagyu tri tip curry with satkora ($32), and Kacchi Biryani with goat, kalizera rice and saffron ($32). But we're leaving room for dessert; the rum drunk doughnuts with caramelised peaches, milk powder crumb and saffron crème fraiche ($15) are our wildest, most aromatic dreams realised. Featuring an all-Portuguese wine lineup, the drinks menu has been crafted down to the last drop. There's the restaurant's own Bang Pale Ale fronting a local-heavy beer selection. Or for something a little more traditional, there's Bangladesh-inspired cocktails and three tasty-sounding lassis on the table — including the BANG Lassi, with fresh mint (in place of hemp), honey, cinnamon, cardamom, star anise, yoghurt and rum. Rum. Find Bang Street Food at 3/410 Crown Street, Surry Hills. Open Tue - Thu 6pm - 12am, Fri - Sat 12 - 3pm, 6pm - 12am. For more info head to www.bangstreetfood.com.au.
Now that spring is in full swing, what better time to give your old ceramics collection a spruce up? Especially since you can score some fab pieces on the cheap, at Mud Australia's one-weekend-only Sydney seconds sale. The legendary Aussie label is opening the doors to its Marrickville studio this weekend, November 24–25, and is slinging a whole assortment of its handmade porcelain and homewares for at least 50 percent off the regular price. Head along from 10am each day to find some very pocket-friendly deals on designs that are slightly chipped, samples colours, left over from discontinued lines, imperfectly glazed, or as the team describes, 'outrageously organic'. You've got until 4pm to load up on cute ceramic bargains and sort out your mates' Christmas pressies.
If you're the type of traveller who chooses their stay based on creature comforts and hotel accolades, you'll want to put a jaunt to Queenstown's newest boutique hotel on your 2023 bucket list. With jaw-dropping views of the lake and town centre thanks to its position on Queenstown Hill, The Carlin has been wowing guests since it first opened seven months ago. And now this 'beyond five-star' hotel just picked up a slew of gongs at this year's World Boutique Hotel Awards in Sydney on Friday night — including the top gong for World's Best New Hotel. The luxe accommodation offering also won prizes for Best New Hotel in Australasia and Best Hotel With a View: Australasia. The Carlin is the brainchild of US-born hotelier and property developer Kevin Carlin, who called the international recognition "very humbling". "We pride ourselves on delivering an outstanding level of service, and these awards formally acknowledge the hard work of our team," he said. [caption id="attachment_880380" align="alignnone" width="1920"] James Allen[/caption] With more than 250 nominees from 70-plus countries, judges base their scores on various aspects of guest experience, including restaurants, facilities, location, design and emotional impact. Judges were impressed by the Carlin's "finer details" including the stunningly designed outdoor living spaces, 24-hour on-call staff, private chef and spa services, and guest access to luxury vehicles and private jets. And although it wasn't officially noted, we're guessing the hotel's famously appointed marble bathrooms and wildly exciting various remote-controlled toilet modes all played a role. "We confidently expect to see The Carlin taking more awards in the future," the judges said. Keen on a luxe Queenstown experience with a scenic flight, gin-tasting tour and private Onsen hot pools? Check out this CP Trips package. The Carlin was awarded three prizes at the World Boutique Hotel Awards, including World's Best New Hotel. The hotel can be found at 43 Hallenstein Street, Queenstown.
It's finally footy season again and, now that stadiums are back in full swing, fans are being welcomed back to the field with open arms. After two adrenaline-fuelled hours watching a game at Sydney Cricket Ground, odds are you and your crew won't want to head straight home. Instead, spend the rest of your Saturday arvo with a drink in hand at a nearby watering hole. To make this next step easier, We bring you a a list of the best bars near the SCG that are perfect for post-match kick-ons. Whether you're celebrating or commiserating, head to these seven spots for margaritas, cold ones and pub grub — without even needing to wave down a taxi. Recommended reads: Where to Go for a Pre-Match Drink and Feed Near the SCG The Best Bars in Sydney The Best Restaurants in Sydney
A fiesta of birria tacos and golden churros has made its way up from Melbourne, landing in Bondi. Until Sunday, June 16, CDMX Taqueria is mounting its first interstate kitchen takeover at Bondi Mexican joint Taqiza, where it is serving up some of the Victorian capital's best Mexican fare. Head over from 5pm Tuesday–Friday or 12pm Saturday–Sunday to snap up an array of casual Mexican eats, including CDMX's legendary birria tacos. Among the limited-edition selection, you'll also find three more lip-smacking taco options: the al pastor, which pairs spit-roasted pork with pineapple and salsa; the pescado, starring a fried-fish filling; and the chicharron norteno, featuring fried pork belly in a spicy sauce. Picking what to eat from the pop-up's menu may be tricky, but the easiest solution is to opt for the award-winning signature birria tacos. Each one features a grilled corn tortilla topped with beef brisket that's been braised in a birria consommé, plus salsa, coriander, onion and melted cheese. Best of all, a cup of the consommé comes with your order, so you can dip your taco in it for the ultimate flavour bomb. Throughout CDMX's Bondi residency, the eatery's owner Beatrice Nacor, as well as Head Chef Marc Cruz and his team of Tashi Wangyel and Ritchie Abellanosa, will be on the pots, making sure every mouthful is as delicious as possible.
If your cupboards are looking pretty bare, particularly on the specialty Asian cuisine front, Thai Kee IGA, hidden away above Paddy's Markets, can provide you with all you need. Dumplings and steamers, koala biscuits, aloe vera juice, Japanese curry, kitsch bowls and crockery sets, hot barbecue pork buns, chrysanthemum tea, Chinese slippers — you name it, it's here. In fact, you should probably allow some extra time just to wander down these aisles. Trust us, you'll be surprised at what you find.
Good news gaming fiends: Melbourne's first hotel games-inspired room is now available for you to live out all your gamer dreams. View Melbourne has created a 35-square-metre room that's custom-made for gaming, providing guests with everything they need for the ultimate game night. It's essentially a fully loaded paradise for gamers and, yes, it's as good as it sounds. The PC corner includes an MSI MEG Trident X2 computer, dual 27-inch 170Hz Esports gaming monitors, a full Elgato streaming setup and a game library that boasts an extensive collection that's continuously updated. The setup also includes an Xbox controller, MSI gaming headset, mouse, keyboard and a Logitech speaker system. Meanwhile, the couch and main television are perfectly set up for all kinds of console gaming, from intense solo sessions to epic four-player parties. The main machine is a Nintendo Switch hooked up to a 55-inch Samsung TV complete with Apple TV, accompanied by four Nintendo Switch pro controllers. On the games front, all the Nintendo faves are available, including the big Mario titles, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Pokémon: Let's Go Pikachu and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. Plus, guests also have access to a huge catalogue of NES, Super NES, Game Boy, Game Boy Colour, Game Boy Advance, Sega Genesis and Nintendo 64 games, all of which are available to play via the Switch. Now, let's talk perks. The room comes with bottomless popcorn, which you'll make in the room yourself; a whole fridge filled with energy drinks, soft drinks, beer and wine; various spirits; and a fully stocked snack bar with an array of gamer faves (yes, even Cheetos). The popcorn is complimentary, but you'll pay for everything else that you eat and drink. The room is full of gamer memorabilia without feeling crowded, and the customisable RGB lighting adds a cool touch (don't worry, you can turn it off if it isn't your thing). Up to five people can stay in the room, so it's the perfect space for epic Mario Party sessions. The setup includes a king bed which can transform into two singles, a sofa bed, and the option to add a portable bed. The room is inclusive for two guests, with each additional adult costing $40 per night. Kids under 12 stay free if they're using existing bedding. For those looking to stream, the high-speed internet and Elgato gear, and even a ring light are there for a seamless experience. And if you're in Melbourne for business, the PC corner doubles as a workspace. In short, the room is a cool blend of nice hotel amenities and a gamer's dream setup, offering a fresh, fun way to stay in Melbourne if you're visiting — or a dream staycation if you just want to live out your 12-year-old kid fantasy. Find View Melbourne at 562 St Kilda Road, Melbourne — and head to the View Melbourne website for bookings.
A Sydney stalwart has been saved, with longstanding Parramatta Road pub The Lady Hampshire being taken over by Public Hospitality Group (Oxford House, The Strand Hotel, El Primo Sanchez) and returning as a dedicated live music venue. Originally called the Old Hampshire Hotel, the Camperdown venue sat vacant for years before being given a makeover and reopening as The Lady Hampshire in 2016 under the guidance of Sydney publican Paddy Coughlan. This new-look iteration lasted about five years before closing during the pandemic without reopening. Now, The Lady Hampshire has scored another transformation, swinging its doors back open as a neighbourhood pub with a stacked live music program. "Bringing The Lady Hampshire back to life with live music as the focus is exactly what Sydney has been asking for," Public Hospitality Group's Entertainment and Event Manager Elliott Harper said, announcing the news. "When it comes to entertainment venues, we only want to foster growth and success across our city and think The Lady will be the destination for all types of musicians and patrons. The first month alone has some of the most exciting gigs Sydney has seen this year and we can't wait to bring it to locals and gig-goers." View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Lady Hampshire (@theladyhampshire) While the pub is open for a casual beer seven days a week — serving up wood-fired pizzas and tinnies of beer among its food and drink offerings — its biggest focus is live music. To celebrate its return, it's hosting a month-long party kicking off with a massive three-day in-venue music festival. A Month of Madness will kick off with the Lady Launch Weekender across Friday, April 14–Sunday, April 16. On the lineup for the musical celebration: Pacific Avenue, Fangz, Juno and Dedpan, as well as DJ sets from Mac the Knife and Nitecall. There will also be a live tattoo studio pop-up, a nail salon for both people and pooches, and $10 smashed cheesies with chips across the weekend. Across the following month of gigs you can then catch the likes of Bugs, Abby Bella May, Close Counters, Bootleg Rascal, These New South Wales and Good Lekker between Friday, April 21–Saturday, May 20. You can keep up to date with the gig guide at the revamped Lady Hampshire over at the pub's Instagram page. [caption id="attachment_893119" align="alignnone" width="1920"] These New South Wales[/caption] The Lady Hampshire has reopened at 91 Parramatta Road, Camperdown — operating from 10am Monday–Saturday and from 12pm on Sundays.
The island of Lombok is Bali's equally magical (but considerably less crowded) neighbour. Here, you get long white sand beaches, deep forests hiding waterfalls and small villages filled with friendly locals. Yes, Bali has all this too. But Lombok is significantly quieter and cheaper. Experienced travellers come here for all the luxury trimmings at beachside or mountaintop villas but at a fraction of the price. Read on to find our favourite places to stay in Lombok, all of which can be booked through Concrete Playground Trips. HOTEL TUGU LOMBOK This luxury Lombok hotel is full of character. One of the dining rooms sits under an enormous wooden pavilion filled with locally made furniture. The bar is located within a traditional hut decorated with a smattering of artworks and sculptures. And the uniquely designed rooms include features like private rooftops, lotus ponds, outdoor baths, plunge pools and more. Add the private beach and spa facilities and you're left with the total wellness package. Plus, it's only a short boat ride away from the famous Gili Islands — so your day trips are sorted. BOOK IT NOW. KU VILLAS This small resort has a few different accommodation types, ranging from individual rooms and suites (with or without a plunge pool) to larger villas with private gardens and larger pools. Modern simplicity is also key when it comes to design and amenities — expect large open rooms with classic wooden furniture and crisp white linens. The in-house spa and small restaurant both make spending entire days by the pool all too easy. We're so impressed with KU Villas that we've teamed up with them to bring our readers one massive island holiday deal. Guests will get a three-night stay, an hour-long massage, a personal chauffeur, a $200 food and beverage voucher for the nearby SIWA Clubhouse and daily breakfast for only $455 — an absolute bargain by anyone's standards. BOOK IT NOW. SELONG SELO RESORT AND RESIDENCES These villas and studios feel more like luxury homes than travel accommodations. Guests have their own modern kitchens, living rooms and bedrooms as well as private balconies with barbecues and private plunge pools. And the views — well, they are just serene. Whether you're sitting in your room or dining by the main pool and restaurant, you'll have uninterrupted sea views framed by wide-open plains and dramatic mountains. Plus, with the option to book a seven-bedroom villa, Selong Selo Resort and Residence is great for large groups of travellers. BOOK IT NOW. RINJANI BEACH ECO RESORT This rustic eco-resort has all the essentials required for having a super comfortable holiday on a tropical island — but it's the location and long list of adventure experiences that make it one of the best places to stay in Lombok. The resort's team will organise snorkelling and diving trips and hikes up to the Rinjani volcano where you'll see large emerald-green lakes and hidden waterfalls. What else is on the menu? Day trips to the nearby Gili Islands, massages at the spa and the opportunity to watch turtles hatch on the beach. Head here to immerse yourself in nature. BOOK IT NOW. JEEVA BELOLAM BEACH CAMP Now, this is the ultimate glamping destination. The off-the-grid recycled wood and alang alang beachfront lodges combine elements of Robinson Crusoe with East Indonesia aesthetics to create a boutique beach camp experience. When staying here, you'll feel totally removed from the outside world. Jeeva Beloam's 11 rooms lie within a 55-hectare nature forest preserve, facing the Timor Sea from a sand dune above a quiet 250-metre-long white sand beach. This Lombok paradise is made for true escapism. BOOK IT NOW. HARMONY VILLAS LOMBOK Is minimalism your vibe? If so, you've got to check out these beautifully designed villas in Kuta, Lombok. On the property, you'll find just five boutique villas (painted stark white inside and out) set around a luxurious lagoon-style swimming pool. It's gorgeous and calming — especially thanks to its adults-only policy. You won't find little kids running around this joint, disturbing your relaxing holiday. BOOK IT NOW. NOVOTEL LOMBOK RESORT AND VILLAS This is a stellar middle-of-the-budget resort on Lombok. You're not spending a heap of money, but you still get to stay right on the beach — free from crowds — getting all the top luxury resort inclusions. You've got large air-conditioned rooms by the water, free daily activities, three outdoor pools and a great restaurant and bar. Tick, tick, tick. It has it all. BOOK IT NOW. THE OBEROI BEACH RESORT This beachside resort is made for chilling out. Spend your days jumping from the pool to the beach and then to the bar — all before starting the rotation again. Sure, you can go on one of its snorkelling trips or have a private dinner on the shore, but you've got to take your time just hanging at the property too. That's especially true of you book the enormous luxury villa that has its own pool and private courtyard. BOOK IT NOW. Feeling inspired to book a truly unique getaway? Head to Concrete Playground Trips to explore a range of holidays curated by our editorial team. We've teamed up with all the best providers of flights, stays and experiences to bring you a series of unforgettable trips in destinations all over the world. Top image: Selong Selo Resort and Residence
Paddington nose-to-tail seafood favourite Saint Peter is getting a bar — and Josh and Julie Niland, the pair behind the acclaimed eatery, are getting a boutique hotel, too. Come summer 2022–23, the Nilands will take over Underwood Street's Grand National Hotel, moving their beloved restaurant into it. Also on the cards: a separate bar menu for a more casual stopover, an additional private dining room and 14 rooms for guests to stay in. It's already been a big few years for Josh and Julie, who also opened their first Fish Butchery in Paddington back in 2018, launched sustainable fish and chip shop Charcoal Fish in Rose Bay in 2021 and set up a second Fish Butchery in Waterloo earlier in 2022. This news is particularly huge, though. Closed since 2019, the Grand National dates back to 1896, and will relaunch under the Nilands after a new stint of renovations. [caption id="attachment_855329" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Newtown Grafitti via Flickr[/caption] For seafood lovers eager to follow Saint Peter to its new digs after six years at 362 Oxford Street, the relocated restaurant will sit within a 45-seat dining room — and beneath a skylight ceiling. It's no wonder that the Nilands have called the move "opulent". While you eat, you'll be able to see into the open kitchen and wood-fired grill, and also peer at the fish charcuterie cabinets and displays. And, menu-wise, you'll be picking from an a la carte menu filled with the ocean's finest, showcasing Australia's top fishers and oyster growers (as well as vegetable growers, winemakers and artisans). As for that bar, it'll be there for sips before or after dinner — or just for lunch or dinner on its own. And, for special occasions, the private dining room will cater to 15. [caption id="attachment_811440" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The interior of Saint Peter, by Nikki To.[/caption] Keen to tuck into a fishy spread, have a few drinks, then bunker down for the night? The Nilands describe the hotel as providing "our restaurant guests with an opportunity to extend their Saint Peter experience with a luxurious overnight stay". Exactly when Saint Peter will start operating in its new spot, and when The Grand National will reopen, hasn't yet been revealed — but Saint Peter Oxford Street will shut its doors sometime in early 2023. Saint Peter will remain at 362 Oxford Street, Paddington, until early 2023. The Grand National Hotel, at 161 Underwood Street, Paddington, is set to open sometime over the summer of 2022–23. Top image: Rob Palmer.
Mardi Gras-goers were rocking cowboy hats long before they became the go-to accessory for hen's parties and festival fits. So it's only fitting that a few Stetsons and leather chaps would be busted out for WorldPride at Sydney's other longtime advocate for cowboy attire, Shady Pines Saloon. The low-lit Darlinghurst dive bar is hosting a series of free Pride parties each Wednesday throughout the festivities with its usual world-beating cocktails and stellar whiskey menu, free bowls of peanuts and a stacked entertainment lineup. Some of the names across the program include cowboy drag king Kazier, circus performer MissTaken Identity, Big Thick Energy's burlesque goddess Demon Derriere, as well as Gabe Woods, Billie Burnout, Diva Attenbra and Mr Benjamin Butterfly. Since we're talking Shady Pines here, naturally there'll be the mandatory presence of live country music performed across the three weeks. Plus, there's a recommended dress code that Shady Pines describes as 'Ruff n' Ready Redneck' and those who observe will be treated to a bowl of free peanuts. Entry is free, and as always, the bar is walk-in only so you'll want to arrive promptly if you're after a table. If there's a certain performer you want to catch, you can head to the Swillhouse website where each week's lineup is laid out.
You might think that there's not much exciting about a fridge magnet. I mean, who is really thrilled by a piece of plastic that announces "I Love NYC" or is shaped like your pet dog? The designers at Kudu saw artistic potential in the common fridge magnet, however. They pushed the design of the magnet one step (or, rather, a few metres) farther and created magnetic panels to cover your entire refrigerator. Kudu's fridge panels create a bold kitchen statement, an easy way to spice up an otherwise lack-luster space. And the best part? They're simple to remove or to switch out. Swap your fridge panels to fit a party theme, a holiday, or perhaps your mood. Choose from a collection of themes, spanning from animals, to a sexy shirtless man, to designer illustrations; then, simply measure your fridge and order online. Kudu is willing to help you measure your fridge, and will even custom design a panel for you or your business, upon request. [via Notcot]
This self-described dive bar is anything but dingy when it comes to the lineup of live music and entertainment it offers each night of the week — all for free. All that's asked of punters is that they 'be good to one another', which seems like a reasonable price to pay. Head downstairs to hear established and up-and-coming acts behind the mic throughout the week. There's also regular trivia and comedy nights each month. Check out its Instagram for gig details — it's a good idea to book ahead as things can get pretty tight. Images: Jasmine Low
This Bondi Beach drinking and dining den has stood the test of time, hence its inclusion on our list of the best pubs in Sydney. The North Bondi RSL has held on to its loyal patrons with decent prices, classic meat raffles and honest community engagement while gathering plenty of other locals and tourists through free live music nights and the recently refurbished bistro. Plus, everyone loves those uninterrupted beach views. They'll never get old. Either spend a long sunny day out on the terrace or head inside to eat, drink and watch the footy with a bunch of rowdy sports lovers. And if you happen to be here for the marvellous sunset, be sure to pay some respect to the veterans by standing up and facing westwards with the rest of the staff and patrons. Appears in: The Best Pubs in Sydney The Best Rooftop Bars in Sydney
Winter has hit Bondi. That means goodbye surf. And hello Bondi Winter Magic, a month-long festival filled with ferris wheel rides, ice skating, art shows, live music, history walks and fringe events. The world's most famous beach will embrace chilly days, and even chillier nights, with adventures you can't have in summer. Setting up next to Bondi Pavilion will be Bondi Vista, a ferris wheel that'll send you soaring 22 metres above the sand. From Friday, June 28 until Sunday, July 28, you go for a spin and feast your eyes on 360-degree views. On one side, you'll be gazing at wild waves, endless horizon and open sky. On the other, look out for glimpses of the city skyline. Rides run from 9am until 10pm every day. If you can, treat yourself to a sunset spin, when the views are sure to be at their most spectacular. Just don't forget to rug up. Between rides, you can go gliding on the Bondi Ice Rink and check out the Bondi Feast fringe festival — an extravaganza of circus, burlesque, comedy and theatre. Plus, on Sunday, July 14, you can follow an Art Trail to see works by local artists and, on July 28, you'll be dancing your way through the neighbourhood when Music On The Streets hits town. Bondi Vista will be open from Friday, June 28 to Sunday, July 28, as part of Bondi Winter Magic. Tickets can be purchased here.
We're all devoted to our own local cafe, but there's no denying that the inner west has had particularly rich pickings of them lately. After a spate of new openings in 2012, the area offers everything from big-breakfast old faithfuls to fine-dining-trained chefs and experimental commune-type sanctuaries. But if there's one quality that ties these disparate breakfast-to-lunch hangouts together, it must be their sense of community. They all pride themselves on their local and hyperlocal produce, in-house preparation techniques, and nose for what their most important customers — locals — want. So if you're an inner westie, here's our guide to the ten best cafes you'll want to visit and revisit. And if you're not from the area, well, it's time for an expedition. 1. Cornersmith Cornersmith is a legend worthy of its reputation. Originally a thread shop, the space is beautifully pared back, with a stark, tiled wall, a mustard ceiling and nary a vintage poster or knickknack in site. It feels a little French and a little like you’re sitting in a large kitchen of an old Australian home. A blackboard displays the simple menu, including a list of what fresh produce they have in that week. The menu revolves around these ingredients, which the co-owners, James and Alex, gather locally as much as possible — Marrickville residents who grow vegetables trade their excess for a jar of home-made jam or relish. Everything is made from scratch (they even have their own beehive), the service is super-friendly, the coffee is great. 314 Illawarra Road, Marrickville; www.facebook.com/pages/Cornersmith/294576130569750 2. The Grounds of Alexandria The team behind the Grounds have taken an industrial warehouse and transformed it into a homely, wholesome sanctuary. In fact, it's almost a town. There's the garden, which grows produce for the kitchen and doubles as an outside eating area for take-away meals. Listen carefully, you'll find the chickens around here too. There's also a kids' playground, gardening classes, on-site bakery, and a coffee roasting facility incorporating testig and a boutique school. On a Saturday morning, the place is brimming with families, children joyously patting ducks, bunnies, and guinea pigs that don't look too perturbed by the attention. It's tempting to see this as some kind of cult — though one that truly justifies the following.The only downside of this experimental paradise that we can see is the time you're likely to wait to get fed. Turn up early, plan a weekday visit, or pack your patience and wait for a table with a coffee in the garden. Building 7A, 2 Huntley Street, Alexandria; www.groundsroasters.com 3. Double Roasters Double Roasters has breathed life into a 1950s warehouse. Inside the cafe is a wave of activity: the espresso machine is purring away, with the barista furiously pumping out hot coffee; the coffee blender is sucking and spitting out aromatic beans; and staff are scurrying back and forth with plates of food. One of the selling points of Double Roasters is its passion for coffee. Single origin beans are roasted on site in 12kg batches, ensuring superior quality and consistency. The food menu is straightforward, but you'll definitely get bang for your buck. 199 Victoria Rd, Marrickville; www.doubleroasters.com 4. Excelsior Jones It's hard not to fall in love with Excelsior Jones. The friendly cafe sits in what used to be an old corner store in Ashfield and is a welcome addition to a quiet neighbourhood that was, before Excelsior, devoid of a local haunt. Co-owners Anthony Svilicich and James Naylor are both ex Le Monde, and also on board to bring a touch of brilliance to the modest menu is Adrian Borg, who previously held stints at Assiette and District Dining. House-cured salmon hash with pearl shallots, fried buckwheat, poached egg, and fresh herbs ($16) is nourishing and tasty to say the least, while the bacon and egg sandwich with capsicum relish and aioli ($10) will please any fan of this staple. The team is incredibly enthusiastic about providing a place where locals and people from all walks of life are welcome and feel comfortable, and the atmosphere definitely reflects this. 139 Queen Street, Ashfield; www.excelsiorjones.com 5. The Counter There's been a gradual takeover in the inner west cafe scene of smaller, well-designed cafes that focus primarily on coffee. Which, of course, a good cafe should. But the Counter in Petersham has also managed to include all the right eggs in its basket. Breakfast options are simple but with added tasty flares such as sourdough bread or homemade mayonnaise. The Smith's Sister ($14) is a classic of slow poached eggs and bacon on sourdough, while the Mr Smith Sambo ($9.50) mixes a soft egg, bacon, tomato relish, and mayonnaise between toasted sourdough. While there is limited space and you might find yourself having a bit of a wait for a table, the delightful staff, and fast service means you won't be frustrated by this smaller cafe. 96 Audley St, Petersham; 02 9560 2949 6. The Rag Land It's no secret that Redfern is definitely on the up. A little more gentrified, a little more hip. And while the Redfern/Waterloo border isn't exactly Sydney's most happening hotspot just yet, the Rag Land — a play on its Raglan Street location and light, bright bric-a-brac interior — is certainly a place worth visiting. Great food, sweet digs, and some winning coffee from one of the nicest teams we've met for a long time ranks high in our books. It's also more than reasonably priced, welcoming, unpretentious, community-minded, and has FBi radio peeps winging it down the road. 129 Raglan Street, Redfern 7. Black Star Pastry Just off King Street in Newtown, this hole-in-the-wall patisserie is unlike anything you've ever seen. With rebels in the kitchen and hipsters on the floor, Black Star is one of a kind. What sets them apart from the rest? The creativity tablespooned into every single mixing bowl. And the end result? An eclectic combo of offerings, sure to wow all of one's senses. For beginners, we recommend the strawberry watermelon cake with rose cream (four potions for $24). Then, try the lemon meringue tart with basil jelly, a genius concoction that will have you ordering a dozen at a time. For the kids, there's Ginger Ninjas ($4), which have replaced the somewhat jaded gingerbread man at this happening hotspot. 277 Australia St, Newtown; www.blackstarpastry.com.au 8. Trainspotting Choose life. Choose a job. Choose breakfast. Given it shares its name with the famous nineties drug film, it’s apt that Trainspotting is drawing addicts — albeit of a different kind. The brainchild of Cameron Macpherson, previously of Restaurant Pepper in Balmain and Pier in Rose Bay, this unassuming café is giving Lewisham locals a long-awaited caffeine kick, and coffee connoisseurs something new to buzz about. The breakfast menu features the usual suspects as well as a number of in-house specialties. The Trainspotting Envy ($13) — poached eggs on a bed of spinach leaves topped with a feta and basil sauce — goes down a treat. Shop 1, 3 Victoria Street, Lewisham 9. Paper Cup Paper Cup is a Middle Eastern treat in the inner west. As well as coffees (Coffee Alchemy beans, roasted in nearby Marrickville) the tiny galley service area puts out a focused breakfast menu and sandwiches, with Middle Eastern flavours providing a hit of spices and texture to the signature dishes. Arabian-style bircher muesli with poached fruit, yoghurt, pistachios and honey ($10), and the Dr Shakshuka eggs poached in cumin and chilli-infused tomato sauce with local ricotta and fetta ($13) are both excellent. There is a sweet local vibe here. The staff chat to the customers, and one of the parents from the school across the road supplies the gluten free chocolate brownies; another the chai tea. Everything else (besides the bread) is prepared right in front of you, with the assistance of an induction cooktop and slow cooker. 157/161 Cambridge St, Stanmore; papercupcoffee.com.au 10. Fleetwood Macchiato There's plenty to like about Fleetwood Macchiato aside from its punchline sagacity. The cosy cafe in the quiet neighbourhood of Erskineville is inviting from the moment you step in. Owners Tara, David, and Jai have previously already worked together so are no strangers to the industry and it's obvious. The simple fit out of wood panelling and white walls is home to a combination of good food, relaxed atmosphere and friendly service. Bread is provided from Organic Bread Bar in Paddington and it's worth noting that whatever they're putting between the slices is homemade and incredibly mouth-watering. A bacon and egg roll comes smashed with avocado, mustard mayo, spicy sriracha sauce, pickles, and mushrooms ($12.50) and a wholemeal baguette is overflowing with fig, taleggio, fennel, and a well-dressed watercress and mesclun salad mix ($11). 43 Erskineville Road, Erskineville; www.fleetwoodmacchiato.com By the Concrete Playground team.
When it starred Lindsay Lohan (Falling for Christmas) making her film debut in dual roles in the late 90s, and when Hayley Mills (The Wheel of Time) was doing double duty back in the 60s as well, The Parent Trap told of identical twins who were separated at birth when their mother and father divorced. Each parent gained custody of a baby, then raised the child separately. Never did the sisters cross paths until a summer camp years later, where they realised their connection, then hatched a plan to reunite their family by posing as each other back home. The tale springs from the page, with German novel Lisa and Lottie also inspiring adaptations in its homeland, Japan, the UK, India and Iran. The Olsen twins' It Takes Two owes it a debt, too. But there's never been a version of this story like Josh Sharp (Search Party) and Aaron Jackson's (Broad City) iteration, as first seen onstage in Fucking Identical Twins and now in cinemas as Dicks: The Musical. So absurdly its own ridiculous, raucous, irreverent and raunchy thing, calling Dicks: The Musical exuberantly unhinged — or anything, really — doesn't do it justice. Before this A24 release brought its sibling antics to the big screen with singing, dancing, Megan Mullally (Party Down) and Nathan Lane (Beau Is Afraid) as its long-split parents, Borat and Brüno director Larry Charles behind the camera, Brisbane-born Saturday Night Live star Bowen Yang as drama-loving gay God and Megan Thee Stallion busting out a mid-movie tune, Fucking Identical Twins was a two-man production that premiered in 2014 to must-see success. Created at Upright Citizens Brigade, which was co-founded by Amy Poehler (Moxie), the then half-an-hour affair first filled a basement and now rises to share its delirium with the film-watching world. Leading the way in every guise: Sharp and Jackson, who definitely aren't twins let alone brothers, don't look a thing alike, yet know how to take audiences on a helluva wild ride. Sharp's Craig and Jackson's Trevor do have plenty in common in Dicks: The Musical's narrative, however, with both slick salesman slinging Vroomba vacuum parts who could slide into American Psycho, dripping with toxic alpha-male pride, bragging about their heterosexual prowess and, despite their professional successes and ample posturing, plagued by loneliness. As the feature kicks into gear, they're also new colleagues after their respective offices merge, which they're not initially happy about. Then the instant jostling to be seen as the company's top seller gives way to recognition when they glean that they're actually identical twins. Both yearning for the childhood with two parents and a brother that they missed, they plot to bring their mother Evelyn (Mullally) and father Harris (Lane) back together. But when Craig poses as Trevor, he doesn't know that their dad is obsessed with two creatures that he calls Sewer Boys, and has also recently come out. And when Trevor pretends to be Craig, he no idea that their mum doesn't leave the house or has a lusty penchant for inanimate objects. From the moment that Dicks: The Musical begins with a title card explaining that its two gay writers and stars are playing straight men in the movie, and also espousing their bravery for doing to, there's no room for mistaking Sharp and Jackson's film for anything but a gleefully OTT satire. Subtlety has no room when the first image that the feature shows is the faces of its orgasming protagonists. Nuance has no place when the picture's initial musical number is about having massive penises, as well as separate mansions for sex and masturbation, either. While writing both Fucking Identical Twins and Dicks: The Musical, if Sharp and Jackson — plus composers Karl Saint Lucy (returning from the stage) and Marius de Vries (Navalny) — were trying to one-up each scene, tune and joke with the next, it wouldn't come as a shock. Before the flick is out, there'll be genitals kept in a handbag, other than when they're flying, for instance. And those diaper-wearing mutants from below that even the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles would run from? Resembling demonic gremlins, with one voiced by SpongeBob SquarePants' Tom Kenny (so, yes, SpongeBob himself), they're fed regurgitated food from Harris like baby birds. Performative masculinity might be the obvious target, and a worthy one, but barbs are clearly and eagerly fired in other directions. Dicks: The Musical's own distributor isn't safe. Neither is queer culture, the film's second main subject for parody; "Lube is the word," one of the feature's gag posters for faux Broadway shows states (My Queer Lady and The Gay Odd Couple are others) in what might be the movie's tamest joke. There's a throw-it-all-in vibe to Dicks: The Musical, then, where that one-upping quest frequently seems as if it's driving the flick above all else. Dicks: The Musical only spans 86 minutes, but even viewers unfamiliar with Fucking Identical Twins will be able to spot how well the material would've worked at a third of that length — and, as a result, how forceful much of the movie can be, and not just because that's exactly what Sharp, Jackson and their cast are giving in every single moment. That said, when a comedy turns its outrageousness up to 111, it needs one thing first and foremost: committed players. Dicks: The Musical's actors don't even dream of holding back and couldn't have if they wanted to — that version wouldn't have made it to fruition. There was no chance of Sharp and Jackson not investing their all in their film debut, of course, or in bringing their creation to cinemas, just as they've done with the script's constant array of off-kilter and iconoclastic gags. Megan Thee Stallion not only steals her office-bound scenes, but also ensures that her tune 'Out Alpha the Alpha' is the highlight of the musical numbers. Yang is perfection. Lane and Mullally expectedly prove genius casting moves, because who else would anyone want to sing about critters from the deep drinking blood for fun and winking nipples — and with feeling? Surreal, silly, aiming for scandalous, always throwing another provocative surprise the audience's way, emphasising loving people (and Sewer Boys) for who they are above all else: that's the Dicks: The Musical approach. Still, it's apt that Charles energetically splashes an artificial look across the screen. Making the bit seem genuine might be the tactic with most of his Sacha Baron Cohen-led fare (not The Dictator), and while helming episodes of Curb Your Enthusiasm, but it would've seen this film plummet down a grate. Accordingly, with its blatant sets and puppetry, at no point does Dicks: The Musical try to hide that this is a spoof world. There's a fabricated air overall, though; even when you're laughing, it's impossible not to spy the effort being expended like twins endeavouring to make a ploy a reality, this time on courting cult status.
The second offering from the Rhys Nicholson, Kyran Wheatley team at Giant Dwarf, this is classic New York-style stand-up comedy: an opener, feature set, and world-class headliner, emceed each month by one of the nation's finest talents. You'll be hard pressed to find a higher quality selection of comedy anywhere in Australia — let alone Sydney. So get along on the first Tuesday of the month now, because this is going to be the next big thing.
Inspired by the success of the Sydney Comedy Festival's late-night showcase, The Festival Club, Enmore Comedy Club adopts the same formula: $15 (or $10 if you buy online) for world-class comedy in an intimate venue. Held in the Enmore Theatre's newly refurbished wine bar every Tuesday, this night is run by the same crew behind The Comedy Store, which is widely-regarded as the best comedy room in Australia — if not the southern hemisphere. So expect top-shelf acts at bargain basement prices.
Wearing a slick suit is all well and good but, if you really want to look the part, it's a futile exercise if you don't pair it with a quality pair of shoes. When you're ready to invest in quality footwear, Strand Arcade store Double Monk is where to go. And when we say invest, we mean it — the range starts at roughly the $500 mark with some pairs going for over $2k. The range is vast — expect well-crafted boots, brogues, loafers and slippers from the likes of Alden, Crockett & Jones, John Lobb and Edward Green. You'll also find gloves, hats, belts, silk neckties and briefcases.
If it's one of those weeks that feels like an eternity — and it's only Tuesday — it's time to step up your mid-week relaxation game with a session in a float tank. KOA Recovery in Waterloo offers 60-minute floats for $79. First time giving flotation a go? Expect to spend an hour bobbing, feeling weightless in an egg-like bath filled with warm water and Epsom salts. Designed to block out all external distractions, spending time in a float tank has been shown to alleviate aches, stress, anxiety and depression, and even stimulate creativity. Just what your Tuesday slump needs.
Yulli's Brews' monthly markets have proved a raging hit since they kicked off in January. But hey, not everyone's up and about (and functional) at 9am on a Sunday morning, right? Well, in excellent news for all of you night owls, the vegan Alexandria taproom is set to host the very first Yulli's Brews Night Market next Saturday, August 17. Expect a similarly diverse lineup of tasty eats, artisanal booze and live entertainment as the daytime version, only this time, you won't have to forego your Sunday morning sleep-in. There'll be an array of vegan market stalls selling take-home dumplings, condiments, those famed Yulli's vegan doner kebabs and more, to enjoy while grooving to the live sounds of local act Extension Chord. And there's no way anyone's going thirsty, between the Brix Distillers rum bar and Archie Rose spirits bar whipping up cosy winter cocktails, the natural wine stall from P&V Merchants, and Yulli's own pop-up tinnie and sake bar. There'll even be a dark beer takeover showcasing homegrown drops from across the inner west. As always, doggos are welcome.
Whether it's a dog in a superhero costume or a cat wearing, well, whatever you can manage to get a cat to wear, animals donning outfits ranks among the cutest sights your eyes can ever see. Puppers in cowboy hats and wild west vests, posing for portraits might just raise the adorable stakes beyond previous levels, however. Your furry companion can now be the Kevin Kline to your Will Smith in Wild Wild West thanks to this Dog Photog pop-up heading to Zetland Store Gallery on Saturday, March 27 and Sunday, March 28. Spots for the pop-up are available between 10am–5pm across both days. Bookings are essential, and getting a gorgeous portrait of your cute canine will set you back $55 for one pooch or $85 for two. While just seeing your fur-ball in a cowboy hat may be worth $55, the photoshoot does comes with one web-res image of each dog to take home and set as background photo for every devise you own. Dog Photog Cowboys Pop-Up is open from 10am–5pm.
Directly opposite from Ikea, Bikebug in Tempe has a huge range of cycles, parts and accessories from leading brands in its shop and adjoining warehouse. In the workshop, the team does everything from custom bike builds, restorations and wheel building right through to emergency puncture repairs. Its selection of commuter bikes includes Schwinn's Town Bikes and the Electra Cruiser. Whether you're looking for something off the rack, or gearing up to build the bike of your dreams, there is plenty of inspiration here — and many, many options for customising. [caption id="attachment_776889" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Leigh Griffiths[/caption] Images: Leigh Griffiths
Parties, art, music, performances, food, stripping bare for a swim to celebrate the winter solstice: that's the Dark Mofo way, and so is weaving its anything-can-happen vibe, its beloved regular highlights, and its array of expectation-exploding shows and events into a ritual as much as a festival. The Tasmanian winter arts fest is a place to commune, with attendees and with its boundary-pushing program alike. Challenge, confrontation, evoking a strong response: Dark Mofo is a place for that, too. The festival sat out 2024, spending the time to regroup for the future ahead instead. Late that year, it announced its return for 2025, however. The full program will be unveiled at the beginning of April, but organisers have already announced the first new work. When attendees look at Nathan Maynard's We threw them down the rocks where they had thrown the sheep, they won't forget it. Set to premiere at Dark Mofo 2025 — which runs from Thursday, June 5–Sunday, June 15, 2025, except for the Nude Solstice Swim on Saturday, June 21 — the new commission by the multidisciplinary Trawlwoolway artist will take over a Hobart CBD basement. Inside, expect a commentary on cultural theft and erasure via Maynard's mass installation, using sheep heads to make a statement. "Languishing in museums and their storerooms are the remains of ancestors of First Nations people from all around our globe. They have been stripped of identity and, without consent, treated like specimens for study and scientific inquiry," explains the artist. "We threw them down the rocks where they had thrown the sheep speaks to the sadistic power white institutions flex when they deny First Nations people the humanity of putting our ancestor's remains to rest in the physical and the spiritual." When Dark Mofo's 2025 comeback was first revealed, so were the returns of a number of its beloved festivities: the aforementioned Nude Solstice Swim; Night Mass, which fills downtown Hobart with art and music; culinary highlight Winter Feast, which popped up in 2024 despite the festival around it taking a break; and the Ogoh-Ogoh. If you're wondering if the world missed Dark Mofo, the response to Night Mass alone so far says it all. When 6000 pre-release tickets were made available late in 2024, they were snapped up in less than four hours. "Taking the year off in 2024 was a difficult decision, but Dark Mofo is back with renewed energy and focus, ready to deliver an enormous program spanning two packed weeks this June," notes Dark Mofo's new Artistic Director Chris Twite. "It was encouraging to sell over 6000 Night Mass tickets in less than four hours during our pre-release late last year, indicating that demand for the festival remains strong. We are hoping for a similar response when we release the full program on the 4th April." Back in November, Twite gave a few more hints at what's in store this year. "Dark Mofo is back. For our 11th chapter, once more we'll bathe the city in red and deliver two weeks of inspiring art, music and ritual," he advised when announcing the event's 2025 dates. "Night Mass is a beast, and this year it will evolve once more — worming its way through the city with new spaces, performances and experiences to dance, explore or crawl your way through." Dark Mofo returns from Thursday, June 5–Sunday, June 15, 2025 and for the Nude Solstice Swim on Saturday, June 21. Head to the festival's website for further details — and check back here on Friday, April 4, 2025 for the full lineup. We threw them down the rocks where they had thrown the sheep images: Jesse Hunniford, 2025. Image courtesy of Dark Mofo 2025. Night Mass images: Jesse Hunniford and Andy Hatton, 2023, courtesy of Dark Mofo 2023. Winter Feast images: Jesse Hunniford, 2023, courtesy of Dark Mofo 2023. Nude Solstice Swim images: Rémi Chauvin, 2023, courtesy of Dark Mofo 2023.
Did you know that the biggest dragon boat races in the southern hemisphere happen right here in Sydney? If you're looking for a way to celebrate the Year of the Tiger at Sydney Lunar Festival, consider spending a day getting amongst this massive race that'll be happening in Darling Harbour. The races originated in the rivers of Southern China and were performed to bring prosperous rains. So, if you'd like to soak in some good fortune and to give your adrenaline glands a solid work out, head to Cockle Bay Wharf on Saturday, February 5 and Sunday, February 6 to witness paddlers on their impressive 12-metre-long dragon boats shifting swiftly through the water while your heart rate skips to the beat of the thumping on-board drummers. The best part? It's completely free to attend. Taoist monks will commence the celebration on Saturday by performing a special eye-dotting ceremony and a blessing of the waters. Be sure not to miss out on the magic — it is said that dabbing red paint on the eyes of each boat will awaken the dragons. The Sydney Lunar Festival dragon boat races will take place from 8am–5pm on Saturday, February 5 and Sunday, February 6. For more information, visit the website. COVID-19 safety plans are in place for Dragon Boat Races and all NSW Health regulations will be followed. Visitors are encouraged to be vaccinated and to wear masks. If you're feeling unwell, please stay home.
Serving as a waterfront haven for post-work drinks and late-night shindigs since 2003, Darling Harbour icon Bungalow 8 has got a brand-new experience to light up the start of your weekend. Running every Friday night from 9pm, Keys Gone Wild is a piano-powered party, where the crowd leads the sing-along and the no-setlists-allowed approach makes each week a unique experience. Designed for unfiltered chaos, expect high-energy piano performances fused with your favourite party tracks and DJ beats to keep the rowdiness going into the early hours. Each week, guests jot down their song requests — classics and chart-toppers welcome — and drop them into the fishbowl. This way, the crowd shapes the night, leading to all-in anthems taking over the entire venue.
UPDATE, October 22, 2023: Oops!... We didn't receive the right information about the Australian launch for Britney Spears' memoir The Woman in Me, which sadly means that the pop superstar isn't coming Down Under to hand out copies from a Britney-themed bus. We're as devastated as you are. We were specifically (and incorrectly) told that Sydneysiders would be able to "capture a glimpse of the star from 12pm, with plenty of photo opportunities to be had as she shares the news of her eagerly anticipated memoir launching that day". There was absolutely no mention of a Britney impersonator. The bus will still be doing the rounds in Sydney on Wednesday, October 25 — and this article has been updated to reflect the correct details. If your response to all things Britney Spears is "gimme more", then you'd best be feeling lucky in Sydney on Wednesday, October 25. In a big Britney week thanks to the release of her new memoir The Woman in Me, a Britney-themed bus will be driving around the Harbour City, then handing out copies of her book. Fancy being given The Woman in Me by a Spears impersonator? That's what the first 50 fans at Sydney Opera House at around 12pm will experience. There'll also be photo opportunities, too, if that's how you'd like celebrate the '...Baby One More Time', 'Oops!... I Did It Again' and 'Toxic' talent — and Crossroads star — before going home to read her tome. [caption id="attachment_923002" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Rhys Adams via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] The book tells Britney's tale in her own words — a story that's been covered in documentaries such as Framing Britney Spears and Britney vs Spears, both of which focused on the decade-plus that the star spent under a conservatorship, and has also received copious amounts of media and public attention everywhere. The official blurb for The Woman in Me promises that it's about "freedom, fame, motherhood, survival, faith and hope" as "written with remarkable candour and humour", and "illuminates the enduring power of music and love — and the importance of a woman telling her own story, on her own terms, at last". "Britney's compelling testimony in open court shook the world, changed laws, and showed her inspiring strength and bravery. I have no doubt her memoir will have a similar impact — and will be the publishing event of the year. We couldn't be more proud to help her share her story at last," said Jennifer Bergstrom, Senior Vice President and Publisher of Gallery Books, when the book's publication date was announced. [caption id="attachment_923003" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Drew de F Fawkes via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] The Woman in Me will also be available as an audiobook, with actor Michelle Williams (The Fabelmans) narrating. 2023 marks a quarter century since '...Baby One More Time' rocketed up Australia's charts, and made sure that everyone in the country knew who Britney was. Before then, she'd been in the spotlight since her time on The All-New Mickey Mouse Club in the early 90s; however, it was that blockbuster pop song that truly catapulted her to megastar-level fame. In the decades since, the singer has enjoyed a slew of other hits, thanks to everything from 'Sometimes' and 'Everytime' to 'Work Bitch' and 'If U Seek Amy'. Yes, you now have at least one of these songs stuck in your head (or, let's be honest, a medley of all them). The Britney bus will drive around Sydney on Wednesday, October 25, and is expected at the Sydney Opera House at around 12–1pm. For more information about The Woman in Me, which releases in Australia on the same day, head to the book's website. Top image: Rhys Adams via Wikimedia Commons.
The roundest object in the world is Debra Phillips' second solo exhibition at BREENSPACE. Showcasing two photographic bodies of work, Phillips takes as her starting point the Avogadro Project, an attempt to create a new standard measure for the kilogram. At present, the kilogram is the only standard international unit of measure that is still defined by a physical object, and a fragile one at that. Locked in a vault in France, 'Le Grand K' is a cylinder of platinum and iridium, an object which has only been handled three times in the past century and yet it is still 'losing weight'. The CSIRO Precision Optics team in Sydney together with the National Measurement Institute have been seeking to produce a replacement for the world’s lone kilogram (or, now, slightly less), one which can be created from a single substance and can be replicated. Importantly, this object is also perfectly spherical — the roundest object in the world. It is interesting that Phillips has chosen photography to explore the idea of replicated perfection. Phillips’ first series, 13 photographs shot in the studio with photographic standard measure backgrounds of either red, blue, green or grey (referencing RGB and the grey card) display the tools and output of the man-made Avogadro Project. The second series, shot on a large format analogue camera, displays termite mounds located on the NSW South Coast. Each mound home is individual and self-contained, a climate controlled perfect world naturally occurring. Comprising of 26 photographs printed using an outdated process these images are slightly unstable, each displays minor tone differences, some more sepia, gold or red than others, although ultimately each is incredibly rich and detailed. At the point between analogue and digital, the one-off and the replicable Phillips presents a collision. The man standing between the two is the world master lens-maker, Achim Leistner. Working by hand to ‘massage the atoms’ of the new spherical kilogram he polishes the globe so as to create the closest approximation of perfection. They haven’t succeeded yet, but imagine his hands.
The world-renowned violinist, acclaimed author, sassy singer and all-round enthralling performer Emilie Autumn is stepping on to Australian shores this week and is ready to amaze audiences around the country. The show was announced last year following the release of Autumn's third and most successful studio album, Fight Like a Girl, which was inspired by her book The Asylum for Wayward Victorian Girls and her own intimate personal experiences. Emilie Autumn describes her musical style as 'victoriandustrial', largely because she draws inspiration from poetry, plays, novels and history, particularly from the Victorian era. Think punk meets classical meets burlesque mixed in with a dash of darkwave and synth pop to create a theatrical musical feast like no other — and, of course, we can't forget the avant garde stage constumes which have helped develop Autumn as a fashion icon over recent years. The beats of all-girl backing band the Bloody Crumpets will add to the already dazzling performance, ensuring that the violin fireworks will be a humdrum point in the evening. With a stage presence as bright and extravagant as her hair, Emilie Autumn is a refreshingly unique addition to the 21st-century music scene who has to be seen to be appreciated. https://youtube.com/watch?v=8NGKQ1UUD40
Small wine bars might be all the rage in Sydney right now, but Mudgee’s had it covered since 1923. Back when we were cruising around in Ford Model Ts, a 22-year-old by the name of Robert Roth bought a terrace on Market Street. He turned it into a general store, selling the odd tipple on-the-sly to a particularly parched farmer or two. But the authorities pressed him to go legal and NSW welcomed one of its first-ever wine bars. He must’ve known what he was doing. Ninety-one years later, I’m here on a Saturday evening, and Roth’s Wine Bar (30 Market St, Mudgee; (02) 6372 1222) is buzzing. It’s part Sydney-sass and part Melbourne-funky. Think candles, couches, live music and an easy-to-chat-to crowd. You can buy beverages with genuinely country names like 1080 (yes, it’s also a fox bait) and Lucjet, plus there’s an extensive, 80 percent local wine list. ORGANIC AND LOCAVORE In fact, drinking and eating locavore-style is what this town is all about. Just ask David Lowe. Not only is he a sixth-generation Mudgeean, he’s also a passionate advocate of intelligent farming and regionalism — and the man behind Lowe Wines (Tinja Lane, Mudgee; (02) 6372 0800). They’re certified organic and biodynamic. “I’ve only ever wanted to be a winemaker,” he says. “It’s what gets me up in the morning.” When David was just 14, he started digging out the cellar by hand. A visit is not merely a tasting; it’s an immersive experience. The spacious cellar door offers views over the vineyards and a 40-minute self-guided walking trail incorporating a biodynamic compost, rescue donkeys and a recycled ‘chook palace’. The events menu, coordinated by David’s partner and food legend Kim Currie varies from ten-course vintage birthdays (the next one’s coming up on April 12) to monthly, often sold-out winemakers tables to Iron Chef-inspired comps. THE GRAPE PIONEERS Lowe Wines is but one of 40 wineries in the Mudgee locale, where winemaking’s been going on for 150 years. That’s more variety than most mortals can handle over the course of a boozy weekend — but without the crowds, bucks’ parties and mini-buses that tend to frequent bigger regions like the Hunter. Most winemakers still have time to chat at the cellar door. At Vinifera (194 Henry Lawson Drive, Mudgee; (02) 6372 2461), where Spanish wines are the specialty, Debbie McKendry tells me that she and her husband Tony planted the vineyards in 1994. “Our first grapes were tempranillo, chardonnay and cabernet,” she recalls. “At that stage nobody knew what tempranillo was. There were only about four people with it. We decided that Mudgee had a similar climate to the Rioja region in northern Spain and that it would be something different.” I try a dark, tangy, spicy Gran Tinto (a combination of ganarcha, graciano, tempicynillo and cabernet sauvignon) and an excellent, marmalade-y, apricot-y dessert wine dubbed ‘Easter Semillon’. Outside, the sunny lawns tempt a lazy afternoon of badminton, croquet and Jenga. There are more drops to sample, however, so move on I must. In fact, the Vinifera property is also home to Mudgee’s first boutique distillery, Baker Williams ((02) 6373 9332). Distiller Nathan Williams and his partner Helen developed a “fascination” for high-quality spirits and liqueurs while travelling in the US. They set up Baker Williams in December 2012 and, in a short time, have developed a well-balanced yet fittingly indulgent butterscotch schnapps, a refreshing coffee liqueur sourced from local beans and a rouge vert jus. The “first ferment of whiskey is out the back,” Nathan tells me. “We’ll be starting distillation next week.” Vinifera’s Mediterranean focus is also shared at Di Lusso (Eurunderee Lane, Mudgee; (02) 6373 3125) and Mansfield (Eurunderee Lane, Mudgee; (02) 6373 3871). The former is a specialist in all-things Italian. Think a seasonal menu, woodfired pizzas and impeccably landscaped grounds. Plus, they've recently released an exceptional vermentino reserve. The latter presents a complex tasting list visiting a diverse array of grapes and crossing the entire Mediterranean. Current standout is the 2010 touriga nacional, a Portugese drop. For further wine adventures, there’s Moothi Estate (85 Rocky Waterhole Road, Mudgee; (02) 6372 2925), which lies southeast of the town and is one of Mudgee’s highest vineyards. The food platters are generous and the pinot grigio particularly drinkable. Just off the Castlereagh Highway, stop into Optimiste (Horseflat Lane, Mullamuddy; 0428 640 800), where an entire homestead is dedicated to tasting. So you can kick back on a couch in the loungeroom, or on the shady verandah, trying up to 11 different grape varieties. Potentially dangerous if you’re on the way home to Sydney. CUTE CAFES WITHOUT THE QUEUES Having had a coffee in three different cafes, I’m wondering if the barista police deal out especially harsh penalties around here. Standards are astoundingly high. A local blend from Yarrabin Road Roasters is on the menu at intimate, French-style cafe-by-day, wine-bar-by-night Alby + Esthers (61 Market St, Mudgee; (02) 6372 1555). It’s chocolatey, spicy and has its origins in Brazil, Ethiopia, Columbia and Sumatra. The bigger, eclectically outfitted Butcher Shop Cafe (49 Church St, Mudgee; (02) 6372 7373) (yes, it was once a butcher’s), bustling with locals, offers a less intense experience but it’s still a fine Saturday morning starter. For breakfast, a suitably creamy eggs Benedict is to be found at the roomy, white-painted, French-farmhouse spirited Market Street Cafe (Market Street pedestrian crossing, Mudgee; (02) 6372 0052). The menu is keep it simple; do it well. For dinner, I head to the Wineglass Bar and Grill inside the Cobb and Co. Boutique Hotel (97 Market St, Mudgee; (02) 6372 7245), where I discover a long local wine list and an especially good fractured chocolate meringue and raspberry dessert. EVERYWHERE AN ART SHOW "We have a very strong, active art community here," Helen Harwood tells me. I'm standing in the Fairview Artspace (6 Henry Lawson Drive, Mudgee; (02) 6372 2850). It's a cosy cafe/gallery. After or before caffeinating and snacking, you can wander through several rooms where permanent and temporary works are on show. This month, Lewisham-based artist Filippa Buttitta's Lost Child in the Bush is the centrepiece. It's a contemporary reimagining of the images imprinted in the Australian consciousness by works like Frederick McCubbin's Lost (1907) and Joan Lindsay's Picnic at Hanging Rock. For Indigenous art (as well as a host of natively sourced foods and products), there's the Indigiearth Showroom (1/55 Market St, Mudgee; (02) 6372 1878). It's a 100 percent Aboriginal-owned and -operated business, powered by Sharon Winsor. SALTWATER SLEEP SPOT About 7 kilometres north of the township, a winding, climbing dirt road leads to Wombadah Guesthouse (44 Tierney Lane, Mudgee; (02) 6373 3176). Henry Lawson’s schoolteacher, Mr John Tierney, was the original property owner. His homestead was lost in a fire, but the new building features four truly king-sized rooms (with beds to match) offering ridiculously beautiful views over the Mudgee Valley. An idyllic organic olive grove makes up the foreground. “We’ve been here for ten years,” Ray Whitfield, who runs Wombadah with his wife, Kaye, tells me. “It’s what we always wanted to do.” You can tell. Every detail is taken care of, from the luxurious linen to the handmade toiletries to the ample, home-cooked breakfast. Behind the house, there’s a shimmering in-ground saltwater pool and spa, backdropped by forest. If only there weren't another 34 wineries to investigate.
Whether you want to eat out with mates without fighting over the menu, or you love challenging your PB when it comes to eating quickly, bottomless feasts are the answer. And right now, there's a bunch of them happening in Sydney — from endless bao at Easy Tiger in Bondi to infinite steak frites at Armorica in Surry Hills. The latest spot to join the bottomless bandwagon is Little Pearl on Manly Beach. Head along on any Wednesday from 5–8pm and you'll be treated to as many dumplings as you can take in 90 minutes for $39. Four delightful parcels are on the menu. Start with chicken, prawn and mushroom siumai, before moving onto prawn dumplings with laksa sauce and shallots. Then there's the barbecue pork gua bao and, for vegetarians, the shiitake mushroom spring rolls with house-made sweet chilli sauce. If you manage to look up from the plate for a minute (and we don't blame if you don't — what's the goal if not to get your money's worth?), you'll see some very pretty views of Manly Beach. Images: Anna Kucera.
Vegans must have a tough time in pubs, with meat and cheese usually front and centre of most menus. The Green Lion — the new eatery above The Red Lion Hotel in Rozelle — however, is catering exclusively for vegans and recreating pub classics like burgers, hot dogs and nachos with meat- and dairy-free alternatives. If you're not vegan or a regular to the category, it can be hard to judge how good vegan pub food is. Visually though, the resemblance is uncanny. Here, soy-based products are turned into beef patties, mince, battered fish, pepperoni and even melting cheese — the success of which is variable. For instance, a Green Mack Burger with a beefless patty, 'cheese', pickles, and special Mack sauce ($18) definitely resembles a cheeseburger; the mind boggles at what has to be done to soy products to make them look, and taste (sort of) like meat. And while it's perhaps not the most delicious thing you'll ever eat, it's definitely not bad. But, for carnivores at least, the vegan substitutes don't live up to the rich, savoury, salty cheese and creamy mayo flavours the brain is expecting. The fish tacos ($16) are more successful — the fishy-tasting tofu is battered, fried and thrown into a tortilla, and benefits from a fresh tomato salsa. The Panko tofu chips with wasabi mayo ($11.50) are oil-heavy, not really crunchy and the mayo lacks any real wasabi heat. It's a shame the less processed options like a vegetable curry ($15.50) don't deliver in flavour or texture, but it's early days and we're hoping they're still tinkering with dishes in the kitchen; adding a bit more spice, sharpness and freshness could smarten things up. The tiny cups of chocolate coconut vegan ice cream ($4) are cute and tasty. The interiors are — to put it one way — eclectic. There's a fairly bare dining room that's generally busy with families, younger and older locals and other mix of other punters. It's pretty tattered, in a nearly charming pub-like way. There's a library-cum-bookshop, green carpet, dark brown upright dining chairs and a redeeming wrap-around balcony. Service is friendly and we give major props to the vegan drinks list, particularly the vegan wines. The soy-based meat substitutes at The Green Lion do an okay job of recreating the real thing, but if you're vegan, the experience of being in pub — and being able to order anything off the menu and drink anything behind the bar — is a fantastically rare experience. It's worth a visit for the vegan and the non-vegan, the curious and the ardent alike. Images: Steven Woodburn.
This article is part of our series on the 17 most unique things to have come out of Japan. Check out the other 16. A brilliant brewer in Hokkaido has created an actual blue beer. We’re not talking brown beer with a blueish tint only visible with binoculars. But bluer-than-blueberries kind of blue. The shade comes from two sources: local flowers and seaweed. Plus, for good measure, there’s a casual dash of water from melted icebergs, off the Sea of Okhotsk. Chinese yam has been added to create the beer's head — according to the beer’s page on Firebox.com, it “resembles floating ice”. "To sip this beautiful blue brew is to immerse yourself in the wild and colourful flavours of the frozen Abashiri coastline," the page states. The brewery behind this innovation is Abashiri. It made headlines back in 2007 with the creation of BILK. As the name suggests, it’s a combination of beer and milk, which is low in malt and tastes quite fruity. BILK was invented when a bunch of nearby dairy farms ended up with too much milk and were planning on throwing it all out. After the son of a local bottle shop manager heard this, he approached the folks at Abashiri, suggesting that they consider using the milk in the brewing process. Abashiri Blue Beer has been around for a few years, but only became available outside of Japan last year.
With the latest round of Darling Square openings came the second outpost of Hello Auntie — Marrickville's much-loved modern Vietnamese eatery by Chef Cuong Nguyen. At the brand new Haymarket digs, Nguyen is serving up Vietnamese street food favourites, some less-traditional dishes, a long list of Asian-inspired cocktails and a secret menu that can only be read with a UV light. Expect a more succinct menu than in Marrickville, with a range of signature and new dishes on the docket, too. Some menu items making the trip over include the fried rice with XO sauce, cured egg yolk and flying fish roe and the fan-favourite crispy banh xeo — or Vietnamese-style pancake — stuffed with prawn and pork. Some of the new dishes are not strictly Vietnamese, but instead feature ingredients and techniques from across Europe, such as the sesame-topped beef tartare with capers and cornichons and the egg noodles with stracciatella and truffle. For drinks, the cocktail list focuses on Asian ingredients and flavours and includes the likes of the Umeshu Sour (vodka and Cointreau with toasted marshmallows) and the Koh Samui (white rum, pandan, thai basil and lime). The bar is also offering a sake pairing, hand-picked by Nguyen to match the flavours of the dishes you've ordered. Don't forget to ask for the 'secret' food and cocktail menu at dinner, either, which is only available by request — and can only be read using a UV light. The fit-out also sets Darling Square apart from the Marrickville original, though the two certainly have some similarities. In the city, expect polished finishes with an earthy colour scheme, dim lighting and dark timber tables.
Fancy grabbing a drink and hitting a hole-in-one at the same time? How about working your way around two different nine-hole mini-golf courses in a venue that was once a church? If you answered yes to either of these questions and you're in Brisbane, you're in luck. Thanks to Holey Moley Golf Club, come September 29 you can do all of the above. Taking over the Fortitude Valley site that has hosted many a bar, club, gig and dance party in recent years — and many a religious ceremony before that — Holey Moley aims to get eager punters exclaiming its name several times over. That's an understandable reaction given that the leisure entertainment complex will include mini-golf, a cocktail bar and an all-round hangout hub rolled into one. Those keen on teeing off will be pleased to know that each of the 18 holes will have their own theme, with the venue hinting that a mashup of Alice in Wonderland, iconic surfing culture, puppeteers, arguably the best retro video game ever, Nirvana, Snoop Dog, Pharrell Williams and Chubby Checker, Game of Thrones and more is on the cards. And anyone eager to sample the space's other treats can look forward to cocktails such as the Tee Quila Mocking Birdie, Teeyonce Holes, Long Island Iced Tee and G & Tee, plus a food truck menu. If it all sounds like one of the most novel ideas for a new inner-city hotspot you've heard in some time, that's because it is — but hey, people probably thought that when Strike Bowling combined knocking down pins and knocking back beverages. In fact, the folks behind Holey Moley would know a thing or two about that, because they also started Strike. We can only assume that a frisbee-themed nightclub is going to be their next venture. Holey Moley Golf Club opens on September 29 at 25 Warner Street, Fortitude Valley. For more information, keep an eye on their website and Facebook page.
In Stay of the Week, we explore some of the world's best and most unique accommodations, giving you inspiration for your next trip. In this instalment, we set the compass to Tropical North Queensland and take a trip to Cairns for a special stay at Crystalbrook Riley. We love this place so much that we teamed up with the resort to offer an exclusive four-night travel deal — including in-room entertainment, aquarium access and accommodation in an ultra-refined Urban Room. WHAT'S SO SPECIAL? Queenslanders have had a good few reasons to celebrate of late: State of Origin wins. A low-intensity heatwave that makes it feel they're never going to break up with summer. First place in a new survey that asked Aussies to rank their favourite local travel destination. And while anyone who's not a Maroons fan probably doesn't want to hear them gloat about their footballing victories, we can certainly support a destination that grants us access to sunny days and balmy nights right now without the need to renew our passports. Pitching itself for consideration is Crystalbrook Riley, a five-star stay that's strategically situated along Cairns' iconic coastal boardwalk. It has some of the best beaches of the world literally at your doorstep. Luxe location aside, Crystalbrook Riley's outstanding amenities are equally impressive. They include a 1000-square-metre swimming lagoon, a private man-made beach, bustling bars and restaurants and some seriously stylish rooms and suites. THE ROOMS The Crystalbrook Riley team is proud to proclaim that its 311 rooms and suites most certainly do not feel like a home away from home. But before you think that's a typo allow us to explain its rationale. Basically, it's because the team believes that leaving your teeny one-bedroom with views over the main road to spend your time away in the same sort of set-up defeats the purpose. Instead, it delivers all of the good things you love about your own house (big beds, comfy couches, steaming hot showers) and adds some oomph by making the design a little more sophisticated, the furnishings a touch more elegant and the kind of contemporary cool accessories you'd find at a boutique homeware store. FOOD AND DRINK If you're in Cairns, you're probably going dedicate a couple of days to super-early-start excursions like the Daintree National Park or the Great Barrier Reef. On those occasions, when you come home exhausted and don't have the physical energy to untangle your salty hair let alone order an Uber, Crystalbrook Riley's own in-hotel restaurants are on hand. The highest rooftop bar in Cairns, Rocco, is all about generous serves, share-style dining and fresh dishes that take inspiration from the Middle East and the Mediterranean and recreate them with fresh regional produce. Highlights include mezza plates featuring freshly shucked oysters, house-made labneh cheese, Far North Queensland grilled tiger prawns, confit chicken and grilled lamb cutlets. Pair them with a smart selection of sweet and savoury cocktails, like the Moroccan-inspired Message in a Bottle, for an experience that is truly unmissable. On the other hand, if you're all about an Asian epicurean experience, then Paper Crane offers a modern menu that makes the most of Tropical North Queensland's fresh ingredients while highlighting the best of Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Thai, and Vietnamese fare. Signature dishes such as the citrus soy-marinated Tableland rib-eye steak on the bone pair perfectly with Paper Crane's custom cocktails. Just be sure to pace yourself if you have another long day trip planned for the next morning. THE LOCAL AREA Know as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is the place to base yourself if swimming and snorkelling among world-heritage-listed marine life is on your bucket list. Ditto those seeking easy access to the iconic Daintree Rainforest and its soaring green canopies. But beyond its beaches and bushland, Cairns is also a dream holiday destination for those who like to pack their itinerary with drinking, dining and days spent doing a little retail damage. Our suggestions include the tropical treats at Charley's Chocolate Factory, sunset cocktails at seaside bar Salt House, the small boutiques in Oceania Walk or Galleria for high-end designer stores. THE EXTRAS Did you even go on a holiday if you didn't treat yourself to a fancy facial and meditative massage? Although Crystalbrook Riley's Eleme Spa is temporarily closed, guests can still enjoy access to the equally fabulous Eleme Day Spa Crystalbrook Flynn just down the road, where treatments such as couples therapy and detox packages are all available. Additionally, those who take advantage of this exclusive Concrete Playground Trips promotion can enjoy two complimentary tickets to the famed Cairns Aquarium. It's home to the Southern Hemisphere's only two-storey Deep Reef Tank, the 360-degree Oceanarium and Underwater Viewing Tunnel. Guests can spot rare species of sharks, sting rays, crocodiles and more, as they attempt to find Nemo. Feeling inspired to book a truly unique getaway? Head to Concrete Playground Trips to explore a range of holidays curated by our editorial team. We've teamed up with all the best providers of flights, stays and experiences to bring you a series of unforgettable trips in destinations all over the world.
If clothes make the man, the beard defines the attitude. Whether it's a sharp stubble, a neat fade or a bold statement moustache, the right grooming routine can elevate your whole look. That's where the Philips OneBlade 360 comes in. This all-in-one tool is built to trim, edge and shave any length of hair with precision and ease, thanks to a flexible 360-degree blade that follows the contours of your face, a five-in-one adjustable comb and a fast-moving cutter that can deal with hair of any length. To show what it can do, we've teamed up with Joe Kurdyla from Melbourne barbershop Kings Domain to walk us through four trending facial hair styles that you can nail at home with the Philips OneBlade 360. Short stubble Effortless and universally flattering, a tidy five o'clock shadow is an easy way to look put-together without appearing as though you've tried too hard. Keep it sharp by using the adjustable guard to maintain your preferred length, and let the 360-degree blade do the heavy lifting. Neat beard A short-to-medium beard with faded sides and defined edges is a low-maintenance way to enhance your face shape and jawline while still looking professional. No fuzz, no fuss. The OneBlade's precision trimmer lets you clean up the neckline and cheeks in seconds, keeping things fresh between barber visits. Full beard Bold, rugged and full of character, a full-length beard is a surefire way to make a statement. Use the OneBlade to shape and edge around the beard, especially around the cheeks and neckline, so it stays strong rather than scruffy. Retro moustache Throwback alert: whether you're going for the retro Tom Selleck look or prefer a neater, cleaner look (think: Nathan Cleary), the OneBlade's dual-sided blade helps you define edges with total control. Ditch the guard, tidy the stubble around your mo and let the whiskers take centre stage. For more information on the Philips OneBlade 360, head to the brand's website.
In heartbreaking news, Bistrot 916 is the latest Sydney haunt to join the slew of venues that will close in 2024. Since opening in 2021, the Potts Point locale has served extravagant French fare that has earned it a spot among Sydney's best French restaurants. Now, the sleek spot be shutting its doors ahead of the site that it calls home being demolished. Unfortunately, the CBD stalwart will be ceasing operations as a result of impending development on its current and surrounding location. An exact date for the final service hasn't been revealed, but the Challis Avenue restaurant is encouraging Sydneysiders to come in for a celebratory last dinner before it officially shuts. The three ex-Restaurant Hubert hospitality giants behind the venue, Dan Pepperell (Alberto Lounge, 10 William Street and Frankie's), Andy Tyson (Alberto Lounge) and Michael Clift (Rockpool Dining Group), took to the restaurant's Instagram page to announce its closure. "We would like to send our deepest gratitude to all of our incredible staff past and present and to our beautiful customers, it has been our pleasure," said the Bistrot 916 team via an Instagram post. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bistrot 916 (@bistrot916) While Bistrot 916 will no longer dish out its top-notch French cuisine, the crew behind it will still be serving up New York-style eats at Clam Bar, Italian feasts at Sydney institution 10 William Street, Pellegrino 2000 — which recently hosted international star Taylor Swift — and soon-to-come subterranean diner Neptune's Grotto residing underneath Clam Bar. And for that goodbye trip to Bistrot 916, it's recommended that you book sooner rather than later to secure a farewell meal — you'll have company. [caption id="attachment_801360" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cassandra Hannagan[/caption] [caption id="attachment_801364" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cassandra Hannagan[/caption] Find Bistrot 916 at 22 Challis Avenue, Potts Point, open from 5–9.30pm Monday–Thursday and 12–9.30pm Friday–Sunday. Head to Bistrot 916's Instagram page for future announcements and updates. Top image: Cassandra Hannagan.
"Just f**k — never in my life have I had a sandwich like this before!" While legendary butcher Anthony Puharich may have spent many an hour on the meat grinder in this time, he's certainly not mincing his words when it comes to the results of a collaboration that should have Sydney's sandwich lovers drooling. The humble sanga is getting a gourmet glow-up courtesy of two Harbour City culinary heavyweights. Puharich – the acclaimed meat-smith behind Vic's – has lent his carnivorous expertise to Bhas Pureephat, the mastermind behind Sydney sandwich stalwart Sandoitchi. Together, the pair have crafted a sandwich that elevates the common lunch staple to an experience that will thrill even the most discerning palates. Gastronomic flexes on everyday dishes are hardly a new concept. From top-tier tacos to burgers infused with gold leaf, fancy diner food are a common sight on menus across Australia and around the world. Puharich and Pureephat's contribution to this indulgent genre comes in the form of a Stone Axe fullblood wagyu tenderloin sandwich ($65). Boasting a marbling score of +9 courtesy of 500-day ration-fed cattle, this premium protein is generously paired with a rich and flavourful Yakiniku sauce and spicy wasabi mayo nestled between Sandoitchi's signature brioche roll. Puharich insists only the best is fit for their sandwich: "We've taken it to another level, by using the very best quality blood wagyu available in Australia." But wait, there's more. The duo have also crafted a decadent wagyu fat chocolate mousse and fresh strawberry sandwich ($10) as a sweet and indulgent chaser for the savoury main course. "It's truly exciting to bring this exceptional ingredient to life at Sandoitchi Café. Each dish is carefully prepared to offer a unique experience," Pureephat shares. "This is a rare opportunity for everyone to indulge in the very best of wagyu right at a local café—no reservations required." Puharich adds, "If you're going to have just one sandwich in your life, this is the sandwich to have!" The Stone Axe fullblood wagyu tenderloin sandwich is available now at Sandoitchi in Darlinghurst and Chatswood Chase. Head to the Sandoitchi website for more details.
There is no shortage of hairdressing salons and barbershops in Sydney, but Rumbie & Co sets itself apart. Here, the team, led by Rumbie Mutsiwa, specialise in cutting, treating and styling wavy, curly and afro hair. After finishing her apprenticeship, Mutsiwa opened the salon in 2014 with a mission to help clients "embrace every curl". Unlike traditional salons, Rumbie & Co stylists cuts hair dry to "enhance the natural curl pattern". After the curls are looking well-defined and the client is happy with the shape, they are then treated to the usual shampoo, blow-dry and style. Rumbie & Co also offers specialty afro styling, including cornrows, dreadlocks, and weaves. Of course, the usual hairdressing services like colouring and treatments are available, too. To help with the upkeep, the salon also has its own range of products, including curl gels and silk pillowcases. Plus, it runs workshops on styling and caring for curly and afro hair on occasion.
In the canon of Star Wars movies, there are now essentially four chapters: The Originals, The Prequels, The Sequels and The Spinoffs. The Originals (Episodes IV-VI) are, and perhaps always will be, the best of the bunch; a genre-defining, special-effects revolutionizing space saga of such epic proportions they remain, to this day, some of the most spectacular blockbusters ever made. The Prequels (Episodes I-III) are, and hopefully always will be, the worst of the bunch; a childish, CGI-heavy money spinner that played more like hastily written video games than films worthy of their iconic opening credits and characters. The Sequels (Episode VI-IX) are only one film in (with the second now in post-production), but it's safe to say The Force Awakens gave us exactly what we needed; a thrilling if rather familiar-feeling reboot with a talented, multi-dimensional and engaging new trio of stars to pick up where Luke, Han and Leia left off. That brings us to The Spinoffs, beginning with Rogue One and soon to include the untitled Han Solo origin story. In a way, while it's not given its own Roman numeral, Rogue One is a sort of Episode III-point-V – a nifty prelude to one of the most iconic please explains in cinema history: the Death Star's infamous design flaw. In Rogue One, audiences get the answer to two important questions: why the moon-size battle station had such an exploitable Achilles' heel, and how the Rebel Alliance found out about it. The former and weaker of these two revelations occupies the first two-thirds of the movie, whilst the latter gives it its much needed closing momentum. Leading the film's magnificent ensemble is Felicity Jones as Jyn Erso, the abandoned daughter of Galen Erso (Mads Mikkelsen), a famed Imperial scientist whose work proves pivotal to both the inception and design of the Empire's new super weapon. Unfortunately, Jones's dialogue does little to showcase her ability – frankly, much of Rogue One's screenplay leaves a lot to be desired. The two big exceptions are Forest Whitaker's eccentric character Saw Gerrera, and the Alan Tudyk-voiced droid K-2SO. In particular, the latter character's deadpan honesty helps cut through the film's often overwhelming sense of gloom. On the positive side, though, we again find in the Star Wars universe a film where gender holds zero stock as either an insult or a differentiator. Whenever a character's abilities are called into question, it's because of their experience or upbringing, not their reproductive organs, and Jyn is no exception. Alongside her, Diego Luna plays a conflicted assassin whose scenes repeatedly address the film's preoccupation with the hazy moralities of war, whilst the villain in Rogue One is a ruthless egotist named Director Krennic – played magnificently by Australia's Ben Mendelsohn. Though the film's various additional characters are too numerous to mention, one does command further attention – although in the interest of avoiding spoilers, we won't mention them by name. Suffice it to say, Rogue One reintroduces a key figure from the original Star Wars film, and does so by digitally recreating the deceased actor's face and voicing him with an impersonator. Sadly, the momentary joy experienced upon first seeing this familiar face quickly gives way to disappointment as the CGI falls short. An ultimately needless piece of fan service, the character's depiction pulls you out of the moment with such intensity that it takes several minutes to draw you back in each time he appears. As The Force Awakens proved, a tangible, human actor will always be preferable to a computer-generated one, and actors should sleep soundly in that knowledge. Nevertheless, Rogue One is overall an impressive and engaging exercise in nostalgia, full of delightful nods to the original trilogy. The movie's pacing, especially at the beginning, feels well off, jumping from character to character and location to location with surprising clumsiness. Fortunately, spectacular action sequences largely make up for this issue, most notably the climactic final battle and the scenes showcasing the Death Star's destructive capabilities – which even on their lowest power setting prove legitimately unsettling. Many Bothans may have died to bring us word of Death Star 2.0, but now, at long last, we can give names to those who did the same for the original – and it's definitely worth the price of admission. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=frdj1zb9sMY
Live music has been unplugged in Sydney for a while, at least in the pub scene. If you want to see unsigned bands rather than splash out for bigger touring acts, the number of venues has been decreasing year after year. The Annandale is always on the verge of closing, the Hopetoun never opened shop again after closing in 2009, and even though enormo-pubs are getting hipster makeovers, live acts aren't getting a look in; rather, tapas and bloody Mexican food. FBI Social in Kings Cross bucked the trend, or else there's pop-up gigs in various warehouses around the place. Newtown, possibly the suburb in Sydney most populated by band members, has hardly any live venues (and if you don't like jazz or burlesque, the Vanguard doesn't rock out much). The Sando closed and was replaced by the Newtown Social Club, which promises an upstairs live music venue. Beating it by a few months is the rejigged Bank Hotel, which changed management last year and has gradually reinvented itself, firstly with a new kitchen in the beer garden. The Bank (it's lost the 'hotel' in its name) has reopened the upstairs room as a live venue with bar snacks and a slightly FBi Social vibe for the inner west. The stage is tiny, cramped in by a long bar and vintage seats. The room still keeps the access to the spacious outdoor veranda for smokers and lovers of fairy lights, which are in abundance. The Bank is one of the few places where you can drink to 4am if you are so inclined, but also get a pizza until 2am. The kitchen upstairs offers a small selection of snacks, the best of which is BBQ duck sausage rolls ($12), which are possibly the best rolls this side of Bourke Street Bakery, and king crab finger sandwiches ($15), which have a solid horseradish kick. It's sad to say that Sydney needs more venues like this, such is the shortage of places to see bands just starting out. It's great that Newtown now has another.
Now that 2021's cooler months are here, locations around Australia have been transforming into winter wonderlands, celebrating the chilly season in all of its frosty glory. Starting back in May and running through until September, The Winter Village has returned after its debut run in Melbourne two years back — and this time it's dropping by several other cities, including Parramatta. Modelled on your typically picturesque European winter market — and giving Aussies a taste of a winter experience that we don't really have otherwise — The Winter Village comes complete with an ice rink, an igloo village, daily snow showers, and a food and drink lineup. Think of it as your quaint wintery escape, just in urban surroundings. The Parramatta stopover was always mooted, but it now has a start date: Saturday, June 19. It'll take over Prince Alfred Square as part of a partnership with the City of Parramatta's Winterlight, and will stay in place until Sunday, September 12. Attendees will be able to dust off their skates and hit the ice, and hire a private igloo where you can wine and dine with up to eight people in cosy solace. Folks spending their time in The Winter Village's igloos will feast on grazing plates of chips, dips, mini pretzels, cured meats, fried chicken bites, mac 'n' cheese croquettes and more, drink their choice of wine or beer, and tuck into a chocolate ice cream sandwich for dessert. That's the $49 package, with the $69 option including espresso martini-flavoured chocolate fudge dipping sauce, berries, brownies, marshmallows, cookies and your choice of a Bloody Shiraz Gin spritz, espresso martini, wine or beer. Or, get festive over brunch instead — which includes a 45-minute skate session and a meal afterwards for $35. There'll also be pop-up bars and outdoor seating throughout the village, should you be keen on heading along without spending time in an igloo. Top images: Mazloum J.
The CBD might be pretty quiet, but that doesn't mean you can't still sample its finest eateries (by having them delivered to your door). Anyone who's tried Korean friend chicken knows it's a cut above its American counterpart,— and besides, we're pretty sure the Colonel doesn't offer kimchi pancakes as a side. Gami was started by a group of uni friends in Melbourne almost 15 years ago, and it's turned a simple formula — namely fried chicken and beer — into a multi-million dollar franchise. Next time you're with the squad, order a feast and discover why it's managed to be such an enormous success. You'll find Gami Chicken & Beer in our list of the best fried chicken in Sydney. Check out the full list here. Appears in: The Best Fried Chicken in Sydney for 2023
Opera Bar, with its front row harbourside seat, has been one of the top spots for New Year's Eve in Sydney for an age — and this year will be no exception. Sitting front and centre for the multimillion-dollar fireworks, Opera Bar's NYE party involves big hair, Donna Summer vibes and mirror balls. The party is Studio 54 themed, so pop on your highest platforms, don your finest flares and head down to this lively NYC-style disco den. Keen to ring in the new decade by boogying beside Sydney Harbour? There'll be tunes from party group Bermuda Social, Stax-style soul band The Soulphonics, local electro duo Ctrl Alt Delicious and DJ Natural Selector. Of course, it wouldn't be a celebratory occasion without fine French bubbly, which is why there'll be a Veuve Clicquot pop-up bar on the night, keeping you suitably soused. There'll also be a slushie bar where you can pick up an ice-cold miami vice, pina colada or strawberry daiquiri. Or, opt for a beer, wine or spirit from the usual bar menu. And so you can line your stomach, there'll be a popcorn machine and a Brooklyn Boy Bagel bar on site, plus retro American snacks such as pretzels and corndogs on offer all night. Tickets are a cool $499.50 (including booking fee) and cover all the snacks, dance-worthy tunes and sweeping views you could ever hope for, but do not include drinks. Doors open at 6pm and the event runs till well past midnight. New Year's Eve at Opera Bar starts from 6pm. Tickets are limited and can be bought here.
It's a special birthday for one of Sydney's favourite art events, as 2016 marks twenty strong years from Sculpture by the Sea. Kicking off on Thursday, October 20, two clicks of Australia's most picturesque coastline in Bondi will be transformed into a living, breathing artscape. It's clear that the field of artists that make it through really are the best at what they do; with nearly 500 submissions coming in from 27 countries around the world, the competition is fierce. There's also the chance for a chin wag with the artists themselves at the Aqualand Artist Talks series, which will run from 11am till 3pm on at Marks Park and Tamarama each weekend. Have a chat with the creators to find out more about their inspiration and vision. Plus, The Grounds of Alexandria have once again erected a pop-up cafe for the event, this year going with an Arizona-style hacienda at Tama. So keep your fingers crossed for good weather — the whole thing runs until November 6. Image: Karen Macher Nesta, Sea Sponges, Sculpture by the Sea, Cottesloe 2016. By Jessica Wyld.
Plenty of different noises have echoed across Sydney's Entertainment Quarter over the years, given everything that the precinct has ever hosted. The next sounds that the venue's showring will hear: the Ministry of Sound, thanks to its huge dance music orchestra show. Back in 2021, Ministry of Sound hit 30, and then marked that occasion in 2022 with a three-day warehouse party in The Rocks for Vivid. It mightn't be celebrating a milestone in 2023, but the brand that started as a London club night back in 1991 is busting out its classical tour — aka an orchestral gig that's filled with decades of dance music bangers — and bringing it to the Harbour City in March. Taking place from 2.30–10pm on Saturday, March 18, Ministry of Sound Classical is the answer to a question you didn't know you had. Ever wondered what classical renditions of Basement Jaxx, Darude, Röyksopp, Robin, Underworld, Moby, Fisher and more — played by an orchestra, and with live vocals — would sound like? This is your chance to find out. On the bill: the Ministry of Sound Orchestra, of course, as well as Sneaky Sound System, Tommy Trash, The Potbelleez DJs, Freestylers and K.I.M from The Presets. Other DJs and performers set to do their thing include Vision Four 5, U-GO-B, Kid Kenobi, Minx and Jaime Doom from Bang Gang Deejays. Conductor Vanessa Perica will lead the musicians, while live vocals will hail from Sneaky Sound System's Miss Connie, plus Lady Lyric, Karina Chavez, Rudy, Nat Conway and Solomon Pitt. There'll also be multiple places to grab a bite, a beer garden and a gin bar. As for what you'll be listening to, the list of tunes getting the orchestral treatment also spans songs by Robert Miles, Cafe del Mar, Shapeshifter and Temper Trap. And yes, it all sounds a lot like Synthony, which does the same thing — but who doesn't love getting multiple opportunities to hear dance-floor fillers given a classical spin? MINISTRY OF SOUND CLASSICAL 2023 SYDNEY LINEUP: The Ministry of Sound Orchestra with DJ Goodwill Miss Connie Lady Lyric Karina Chavez Rudy Nat Conway Solomon Pitt Sneaky Sound System (LIVE) Tommy Trash The Potbelleez DJs Freestylers K.I.M (The Presets) Vision Four 5 U-GO-B Kid Kenobi Minx Jaime Doom (Bang Gang Deejays) Mark Dynamix Sveta Abel Ming D John Ferris Lorna Clarkson Nick Law Trent Rackus Kyro Ember Stacie Fields The Ministry of Sound Classical tour will hit The Entertainment Quarter, Sydney, on Saturday, March 18. For tickets from 8am on Tuesday, January 31, head to the tour website.
If you're looking for something a little different to do on a sunny afternoon this summer, consider sipping an ice-cold drink and kicking back to dance-worthy tunes on an island while world-class sail boats race around Sydney Harbour. Any excuse to hang out in the sunshine, right? Returning to Sydney for its second season, SailGP will see the world's fastest yachts, with teams from Australia, Denmark, France, Great Britain, Japan, Spain, and the US racing through our iconic harbour on Friday, February 28 and Saturday, February 29. It's set to be an exhilarating couple of days — and you can get right in the middle of all the action at the event's Island Arena on Shark Island. Grab a premium ticket ($250) and you'll enjoy a gourmet hamper and drinks from an open bar, plus huge screens showing the race, live race commentary, DJs and entertainment. All tickets to Island Arena include ferry transfers to and from Shark Island departing Man O'War Steps. Rather be cruising alongside the yachts? Hop on a spectator boat run by Captain Cook Cruises (from $112), where you can get plenty of food and bevvies as you watch the race from the water. Or you can register to bring your own boat to a great spot on the water for free. If you'd rather go behind the scenes, you can book in for a tour of the boats on Cockatoo Island from February 17–27 for $29, too. For all the information on the different ticketing options, head here.
