Sydney fine-dining institution Nel is known for its next-level set menus, with its always-popular Disney degustations taking beloved animated films and turning them into mind-blowing dishes, and its Christmas banquet bringing the ultimate festive cheer with inventive takes on seasonal classics. Now, the CBD venue is going rogue with a 11-course set menu based on everyone's favourite fried chicken fast food chain — the home of 11 secret herbs and spices, KFC. Available for $75 per person across just three days on the weekend of Friday, April 1–Sunday, April 3, the dinner will take iconic menu items from the Colonel and transform them into luxurious, unrecognisable culinary creations. The experience has been created by Nel's owner Nelly Robinson, with each course designed to combine the extravagance of Nel with the fun and playfulness associated with fast food. Highlights from the menu are too abundant to list out, but some exciting concepts you'll be presented with include supercharged wings charred and served on a bed of charcoal, a candle made of gravy that will drip onto a potato bun, and the portrait of Colonel Sanders that's used as the KFC logo recreated on a plate with flavours of fried chicken, tomato, lettuce and pepper mayo. Elsewhere on the menu, you'll find takes on popcorn chicken, Original Recipe drumsticks and the twister — all manipulated and elevated by the chefs at Nel — as well as some yet-to-be-revealed surprises. Wines will be served to compliment the dishes, and finishing off the whole affair will be a nitrogen-dipped chocolate mousse that promises to melt in your mouth. "As a lifelong fan of KFC, creating an 11-course degustation with their most-loved menu items and elevating them to new heights has been a dream come true," Robinson said. The profits are also going to a good cause, with 100-percent of the proceeds from the three nights being donated to KFC's charity partners The Black Dog Institute, ReachOut Australia and Whitelion. With both Nel and KFC expecting this limited-time banquet to be in high demand, you'll have to sign up to a waitlist at KFC's website in order to be in the running to nab tickets to the event. [caption id="attachment_846235" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nelly Robinson[/caption] KFC and Nel's degustation will be happening at a secret location in Sydney between Friday, April 1–Sunday, April 3. You can join the waitlist at KFC's website.
Backhands, beats and artisan eats will converge on Rose Bay's Lyne Park Tennis Centre on Saturday, March 16. That's when social tennis event Social Serve returns to raise money for The Primary Club, an Aussie charity that helps people with disabilities to play sport. If your activewear hasn't had more of a workout than a stroll to the cafe at the end of your street, then here's your chance to put it to work. The good news is you'll only have to work as hard as you like. The sporty part of proceedings will take the form of friendly mixed doubles match from 4.30pm, with champs who kill it on the court heading into the finals. The whole thing will be capped off with a preso and drink from 7.30–9.30pm. Not so keen on joining the game? That's more than fine. Instead, relax on the sidelines, listen to local DJs, eat some snacks and drink some cocktails by Poor Toms. Spectator tix are just $19 and include a cocktail.
If there was ever a year to see if you could stream every film and television show ever, it's the one that we've just lived through. We've all heard the jokes about 'finishing Netflix', which have felt particularly accurate in 2020. But, en masse, Australians have been gravitating to the same movies and TV programs over the past 12 months — and Netflix has just revealed the 17 most popular titles. The streaming platform hasn't detailed them in order, so no one flick or series tops the list. But it has broken down 2020's huge hits by genre, naming a film and show in each — except in the reality TV field, for self-explanatory reasons. The big trends: stars and twists. Famous faces and thorny stories feature prominently, as you probably noticed all year based on Netflix's in-platform top ten feature. So, what were we all watching? In the action genre, Aussies feasted their eyeballs on Chris Hemsworth vehicle Extraction and Karate Kid spinoff Cobra Kai. We went light and fluffy in the comedy category, thanks to Holidate and Emily in Paris. In the horror realm, IT: Chapter Two and The Haunting of Bly Manor emerged victorious — and if you're wondering about the former, which first hit cinemas in 2019, Netflix counts anything that debuted on the platform across 2020. When it came to drama, Aussies couldn't get enough of Enola Holmes and The Queen's Gambit (if you've been scoping out chess sets for Christmas, you know that's true). Spenser Confidential and The Sinner: Jamie were the top thrillers, The Kissing Booth 2 and Dash & Lily the most popular romances, and Pokémon: Detective Pikachu and Jurassic World: Camp Cretaceous the kid-friendly hits. Too Hot to Handle took the reality TV crown, while, doco-wise, everyone watched American Murder: The Family Next Door. And Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness, of course, because no one can now remember a time when we didn't know who Joe Exotic was. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=acTdxsoa428 Netflix didn't announce any figures to go with this list, so we don't know just how many people watched any of the above. And, obviously, popularity isn't the same as quality. Some of the above hits are great, and some are downright terrible. If Extraction and the Mark Wahlberg-starring Spenser Confidential didn't release in March and April, when the world was going into lockdown, maybe they wouldn't have attracted so many eyeballs, for instance. Australian-made shows and movies didn't score their own category, but the streaming platform did note that Aunty Donna's Big Ol' House of Fun spent almost two weeks in the local top ten. In other trends, Aussies watched 60 percent more flicks and series in languages other than English compared to 2019, doubled our viewing of Korean dramas and checked out more than twice as much anime as well. For more information about Netflix, or to stream any of the above shows and films, head to the streaming platform's website. Top image: Phil Bray/Netflix.
The restaurant bar is a curious beast. In recent times, it's gone from being something of an afterthought — at best, a prelude to the main event — to a considered part of the experience in many a restaurant. At its best, a restaurant bar is a destination in its own right. To shine the light on these spots, we've lined up some of the best restaurant bars in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane for when you want to elevate your next night on the town. Round up your crew, get the booze flowing and your night is set.
When Disney announced that it was jumping on the streaming bandwagon via its very own platform, it unsurprisingly announced a number of new Marvel series specifically made for the small screen. None are yet to arrive on Disney+ so far, following the service's launch late in 2019 — but that hasn't stopped the Mouse House adding another high-profile show to its upcoming roster. Later this year, WandaVision — focusing on Avengers Wanda Maximoff/Scarlet Witch (Elizabeth Olsen) and Vision (Paul Bettany) — will drop. At some point in the future, viewers will also be able to watch The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, about Bucky Barnes/Winter Soldier (Sebastian Stan) and Sam Wilson/Falcon (Anthony Mackie), while Loki, starring Tom Hiddleston, was always slated for 2021. Also in the works are Hawkeye, Ms Marvel, Moon Knight and She-Hulk. And, as Variety reports, now joining them at a yet-to-be-revealed date is a show about Nick Fury. Yes, that means that Samuel L Jackson looks set to score his own Marvel series. At this stage, details are scarce — other than the fact that Jackson will star, and Kyle Bradstreet (Mr Robot) will write and executive produce. But if you've been craving more time with Fury, who usually only pops up as a supporting player, this'll be the news you've been waiting for. Fury, and therefore Jackson, did appear in two episodes of the Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. TV show in 2013 and 2014, so this won't be the character's first small-screen outing. In the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Fury has popped up in 11 of its 23 films to-date, after first showing up in 2008's Iron Man. He has since featured in everything from Thor and Captain America: The First Avenger to multiple Avengers films, as well as 2019's Captain Marvel and Spider-Man: Far From Home. If you need a refresher about one of the character's recent big-screen appearances, check out the Captain Marvel trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z1BCujX3pw8 Via Variety. Top image: Marvel's The Avengers. Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson). Photo: Zade Rosenthal. © 2011 MVLFFLLC. TM & © 2011 Marvel. All Rights Reserved.
When Winnie-the-Pooh moseyed into a slasher movie in Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey, the film endeavoured to prove that there's room in the pop-culture honeypot for multiple takes on AA Milne's beloved bear. More horror flicks are coming, because of course they are. But, embracing the usually cuddly figure's sweet and innocent side, so is a supremely nostalgic, family-friendly stage musical from Disney. Winnie the Pooh: The New Stage Adaptation debuted back in 2021 Off-Broadway, then took the Hundred Acre Wood and its famous felt residents to Chicago, back to New York, on a tour of the US and to London. The next stop on the Mouse House-created show's itinerary: Australia, starting this winter, and playing capital cities and regional towns alike. Hailing from American Australian producer, writer and director Jonathan Rockefeller, Winnie the Pooh: The New Stage Adaptation brings Pooh, Piglet, Eeyore, Kanga, Roo, Rabbit, Owl and Tigger to life with puppets — life-sized versions, which look as cuddly and fuzzy as anthropomorphic stuffed toys should. Also joining them is Christopher Robin, in a production that brings together a heap of songs from past Winnie-the-Pooh movies. "The music, the spectacular life-size puppets and the charming performances are the perfect way to introduce (or re-introduce) audiences to live theatre, and this is a must-see show for Winnie-the-Pooh fans," said Rockefeller, announcing the show's Australian run. "We are excited to bring the Hundred Acre Wood to Australia so that audiences of all ages can join us for this heartwarming production." Winnie the Pooh: The New Stage Adaptation will play Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide, Canberra and Hobart, and also has dates booked in everywhere from Dandenong and Bunbury to Launceston and Geelong. Again, this is a firmly all-ages affair, so expect plenty of young Winnie-the-Pooh devotees in attendance. For those keen to see a childhood favourite in a new format, Australia's stages have been delivering blasts from the pasts with frequency over the past few years, spanning Frozen the Musical, Shrek the Musical, Cinderella, Mary Poppins and the upcoming Beauty and the Beast musical in Sydney, just to name a few. WINNIE THE POOH: THE NEW STAGE ADAPTATION AUSTRALIAN TOUR 2023 DATES: July 7 — Drum Theatre, Dandenong July 12–16 — Brisbane Powerhouse, Brisbane July 20-23 — Sydney Opera House, Sydney July 26–27 — Princess Theatre, Launceston August 3–6 — Theatre Royal, Hobart August 9–10 — Hopgood Theatre, Noarlunga August 16–20 — Dunstan Playhouse, Adelaide Festival Centre, Adelaide August 23–24 — Mandurah Performing Arts Centre, Mandurah August 25–26 — Bunbury Regional Entertainment Centre, Bunbury August 29–September 3 — Regal Theatre, Perth September 7–9 — Canberra Theatre, Canberra September 14–17 — Riverside Theatre Parramatta, Parramatta September 21–25 — Comedy Theatre, Melbourne September 27–28 — Geelong Arts Centre, Geelong September 30–October 1 — Albury Entertainment Centre, Albury Winnie the Pooh: The New Stage Adaptation tours Australia from July — for more information, and for tickets from Thursday, June 15, head to the production's website.
Hyde Park gets its Asian hawker-style market on (complete with authentic massive crowds) during 13 nights in spring as part of Crave Sydney International Food Festival. Get there as early as you possibly can (even with extended hours) after work and grab some noodles, dumplings, and Asian desserts. Make sure you claim a table quickly — you have been warned. There are three bars to quench your thirst and entertainment including something to do with a lucky Chinese lion. And if lines aren't your thing, you can book the Noodle Box, a rustic pop-up Malay village cafe, created by Chinta Ria (which luckily has its own bar).
The Sydney Film Festival wrapped up on Sunday, June 15, after a perfectly eye-opening 12-day movie marathon. Here's what our critics loved, loathed, admired and squirmed over. The Best Films https://youtube.com/watch?v=baJK7EhCTEI BLACK COAL, THIN ICE Black Coal, Thin Ice is an exceptionally rare film in which not a single frame feels wasted. A run-down industrial city in China's frozen north provides a perfect backdrop for writer-director Diao Yinan's archetypal film noir, about an alcoholic former cop obsessed by a dead-end case. Slow pacing and minimal narrative exposition rewards an attentive viewer, but the true appeal of this ice-cold thriller is Jinsong Dong's immaculate cinematography. Although rarely flashy, every shot is invested with both an eerie beauty and a fascinating purpose, while simple images often take on new meaning as the camera patiently lingers. You'll be lucky to find a better made film this year. https://youtube.com/watch?v=06BNjqSsGqo TWO DAYS, ONE NIGHT Riveting dissections of realistic situations: that's where siblings Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne have made their careers. Continuing in the same finessed vein, Two Days, One Night compels by rendering relatable, repetitive circumstances without sentiment but with surprises, following Sandra's (Marion Cotillard) attempts to convince her co-workers to forgo a cash bonus to save her job. The precision with which the filmmakers present a feature almost solely comprised of conversations cannot be underestimated, nor can Cotillard's expert efforts in illustrating the fragility of her striving but uncertain protagonist. Small in stature yet striking in its statement, this is a rare and rewarding example of the best film of the festival emerging victorious as the competition winner. https://youtube.com/watch?v=ISaSHUSrEUw BOYHOOD We usually give a film props for being either wildly experimental or successful in what it does. So to watch Boyhood, a film that's both of those things (as well as hugely entertaining), is almost overwhelming. The applause once the credits started to roll was instant and resounding, and it's surely poised to take out the Audience Award. The film's point of difference is that it was filmed over 12 years, using the same cast of actors, including Ethan Hawke and Patricia Arquette. Its focus is Mason (Ellar Coltrane) as he grows from 5 to 18, capturing his coming of age in a way that's ultra authentic and driven by the cast and creatives' real experience of the world. The effect is to transport you back to childhood and adolescence without your attendant judgement or cynicism, and it's a wonderful little gift. If you thought director Richard Linklater had already made his biggest impact on the film world through Before Sunrise or rotoscoping, think again. https://youtube.com/watch?v=rIEf5T3U2YA YOU'RE SLEEPING NICOLE Many films spring to mind during French Canadian comedy You're Sleeping Nicole, including Frances Ha's quirky quarter-life crisis, Ghost World's vagaries of female friendship, and After Hours' freewheeling overnight anarchy; however, Stéphane Lafleur's direct-from-Cannes offering never suffers for the comparisons. Charting its 22-year-old titular character (Julianne Côté) as she navigates the summer sans parents and struggling to sleep, it crafts a love letter to its influences and an endearing effort in its own right. There's slightness in its concept and skit-like construction, but also a sweet mood and amusing tone in its vignettes of mostly ordinary, sometimes eccentric escapades. The exquisite black-and-white cinematography draws the eye just as the eclectic gags charm the soul, in the epitome of an offbeat delight. https://youtube.com/watch?v=KinAEqb3Kts TOM AT THE FARM Xavier Dolan's Cannes Jury Prize-winning Mommy rightly overwhelmed audiences with its onslaught of aesthetics and emotions; however, it is Tom at the Farm, his previous feature, which stuns with its several layers of sheer audacity. Ostensibly the odd film out in the wunderkind writer/director's oeuvre, his fourth effort in as many years is a tense and twisty thriller of grief, desire, acceptance and identity. Playing Tom, Dolan nourishes on screen (as with off), conveying the claustrophobia and complexity of the character's rural trip to pay respects to the family of his deceased boyfriend. When awkwardness begets a strange accord within visually and thematically constrained confines, so blossoms an elegantly disarming offering that earns its Hitchcockian parallels. https://youtube.com/watch?v=TyvfQIdx_Ao WHAT WE DO IN THE SHADOWS The perfect antidote to a program full of worthy social dramas and three-hour-long Palme d'Or winners, Sydney's closing night film was an unmistakable highlight. Flight of the Conchords star Jemaine Clement and Eagle vs Shark director Taika Waititi write, direct and star in what's billed as the latest project from the New Zealand Documentary Board: an in-depth look at the lives of four vampires who share a run-down apartment in Wellington. Think This Is Spinal Tap but with more severed arteries. Clement and Waititi have enormous fun playing with undead mythology (for example, their characters can't get into clubs unless they're specifically invited in.) Keep your eyes peeled for a release before the year is out. https://youtube.com/watch?v=K1nEmIZtrFU PARTICLE FEVER This is the film that makes physics funny and personable. Particle Fever went behind the biggest, most expensive and most controversial scientific experiment ever conducted — the Large Hadron Collider, which recreates the conditions of the 'big bang' in an effort to view the basic particles needed for a stable universe and create a blueprint for modern physics. But what it really showed us was the Mensa-style odd-bods working on the LHC — funny, yearning, obsessive individuals who make coffee, play ping-pong, decipher unintelligible contemporary art and carry regrets just like all of us. Particle Fever meets the universe's biggest questions with simple, elegant, beautiful answers, or the prospect of total, inexplicable chaos. Who would've known that documentaries can provide such childlike escapism. Miracles and wonder. The Boldest Experiments https://youtube.com/watch?v=gZscgKNT2MI FISH AND CAT A two-hour film, made in one take? A film with no editing? Once again, Iranian cinema showed us that it's at the forefront of global filmmaking. Fish and Cat went beyond what could be a gimmick to deliver one of the most compelling experiences of the festival and divide audiences (including our little reviewing team). The film portrayed a collection of professional kite-flyers embarking on a camping trip by a wintery lake and spindly forest, a series of ghostly presences, and a cyclical narrative that plays with time by showing us the same moments from different characters' perspectives. Often high concept films elevate tricky narrative ploys, but Fish and Cat went beyond cleverness to show us something honest and true. Rehearsed for two months and shot in only one take — and inspired as much by mathematics, MC Escher and physics than by cinema — Fish and Cat suggests more films need less editing and more spirit and intelligence. https://youtube.com/watch?v=TgsfyMMYAZI MANAKAMANA A cable car traverses the lush greenery of the Nepalese mountains, ferrying its contents to and from the Manakamana Temple. Each load of passengers contains pilgrims seeking the wish-fulfilling gifts of the temple's Hindu goddess — and while diverse in their constitution, they remain united in their journey. Filmed in 16mm and comprised of 11 rides towards and away from the famous destination, the documentary that shares its name continues the immersive observational ambit of Harvard University's Sensory Ethnography Lab, as previously evidenced in 2009's Sweetgrass and 2012's Leviathan. Each segment, shown uncut and spanning approximately ten minutes in duration, stands alone as couples sit in silence, friends chatter about music and play with a kitten, and even goats enjoy the aerial view, yet together they make a hypnotic and rhythmic whole. MOMMY The latest film from 25-year-old enfant terrible Xavier Dolan pours unconstrained emotion into a claustrophobic space. Shot in boxy 1:1 aspect ratio, the film tells the story of fiery widow Dianne and her troubled teenager Simon, a pair of bombastic outsiders in a white-bread, buttoned-down world. Anne Dorval and Antoine Olivier Pilon are both stunningly good, their performances positively glowing with uninhibited feeling. The tightness of the frame, meanwhile, reflects Di and Simon's limited options, even as their energy threatens to force the edges apart. This is a funny, earnest, devastating film, one that's vitalised, rather than limited, by its intriguing technical conceit. https://youtube.com/watch?v=a8vy-DO-I5E 20,000 DAYS ON EARTH 20,000 Days on Earth is a documentary that's fiction. So, there's that. It imagines the 20,000th day on earth of singer and raconteur Nick Cave, and it's a day that includes him talking to his shrink, recording an album, helping archivists make sense of his historical record, lunching with his pals, driving Kylie Minogue around Brighton, and playing at the Sydney Opera House. A pretty great day, by any standards. Instead of clarity and chronology, what you get is a fragmented sense of biography that is sometimes deeply insightful, sometimes electrifying and sometimes frustrating. Artists-turned-directors Iain Forsyth and Jane Pollard have basically conjured a new format here, and there's a sense that it could be applied to tell nearly anybody's personal tale (though having the flair and flamboyance of Cave certainly helps). It's not like anyone would want every documentary to be made this way, but it sure is an interesting divergence. Most WTF Moments https://youtube.com/watch?v=9gahZEIg73I Miss Violence Greek cinema has been pretty weird lately, but no one in the cinema for Alexandros Avranas Miss Violence was quite expecting it to take the turn it did. And that's even after it started with an 11-year-old girl committing suicide at her birthday party to the soundtrack of Leonard Cohen's 'Dance Me to the End of Love'. Things got repulsive around the time of the graphic, several-minute-long teen rape scene, and they did not improve. No matter your stance on the use of trigger warnings, you'd probably feel this could have been signposted a little better in the synopsis. On Tuesday this played directly after Ruin, so the truly unlucky copped a double feature of confronting sexual violence akin to watching Irreversible twice. https://youtube.com/watch?v=lHLLMaJ27SQ LAKE AUGUST We were hoping Lake August would provide us with the kind of telescopic view of China that Westerners rarely glean. It didn't. A series of extremely long takes of characters whose names and backgrounds, desires and regrets were never revealed, left us cold and, well, a little bored. Fans of slow-burn, long-unrolling cinema will go for this, and festival curators will love the offbeat perspective this offers us — there are so many kaleidoscopic ways to understand and access the non-monolith that is China. We appreciate a tiny chip in the blockbuster schedule of sequels and comic-book franchises, but Lake August was too oblique, too distant and like China, too inexplicable. Most disappointing films https://youtube.com/watch?v=vFnmRNMBL4I COLD IN JULY Although it certainly has its defenders, few films on the festival program were as cringingly uneven as Jim Mickle's Cold in July. Set in Texas in the late 1980s, the film stars Dexter himself, Michael C. Hall, as a mild-mannered family man who shoots a home intruder. But what starts as an exploration of guilt soon takes a bizarre-left turn into John Carpenter-style slasher territory, before shifting again into pulpy film noir and then again into vengeful vigilante thriller. Good on Mickle for attempt to skew genres, but the tone is all over the map. Moreover, the character dynamics are flimsy, while certain dramatic scenes are pitched to such histrionic heights that they end up being unintentionally entertaining. https://youtube.com/watch?v=t3ofy3B90gI RUIN Amiel Courtin-Wilson's previous film Hail was an unforgettable story of down-and-out Australians whose voices are rarely heard in cinema. So Ruin, co-directed with Michael Cody, arrived with more than a little cinephile hype. It was an interesting film. But was it a successful one? Not so much. Set in Cambodia, and portraying a romance of two abused and terrified runaways, Ruin did a beautiful job of mixing a sense of observational documentary with lovely abstract, textural sequences, and it pivoted on two extraordinary, hyper-naturalistic performances.The dream fantasies were beautiful, emotionally complex and visually stunning. But it was right on the line between an open-ended film and an underbaked one. It's good to see challenging cinema that doesn't spoon-feed audiences exposition. But more answers and more context to match the gorgeous cinematography and dreaminess would have gone a long way. https://youtube.com/watch?v=ChM2icbWo9w The Rover A dark Shakespearean crime drama, 2010's Animal Kingdom was one of the most resounding Australian films in years. Not only did it launch the international careers of Ben Mendelsohn and Jacki Weaver, it also heralded the arrival of writer-director David Michôd, a filmmaker whose tightly controlled aesthetic suggested even greater things to come. His sophomore effort is The Rover, a barebones narrative that mirrors his debut in both its technical precision and its nihilistic tone. What's missing, however, is a similarly compelling set of characters. Without them, a pervasive sense of bleakness soon swallows the movie whole. Full review here. https://youtube.com/watch?v=4_8nOSuRFE4 Palo Alto Um, yuck. It may have sold out three screenings over, but Palo Alto was one long, empty cliche about coming of age. It goes to show we can't assume James Franco can write with depth just because he can act, and we can't assume that Gia Coppola can direct with expertise just because her family can. It makes an ass of u and me. By Rima Sabina Aouf, Lauren Carroll Harris, Sarah Ward and Tom Clift.
Plate It Forward has already made an impact on Sydney's culinary scene and beyond with its first two venues: the beloved Enmore Road Sri Lankan restaurant Colombo Social and 2022 arrival Kabul Social. The hospitality group's inaugural spot is based on the philosophy of providing employment opportunities, training and meals to people seeking asylum, while its Afghan counterpart in the CBD is run by a group of female refugees, and donates a meal to a person in need in both Australia and Afghanistan for each meal sold. Following the success of these first two ventures, the social enterprise is growing again with a walk-in-only Mexican restaurant located in the South Eveleigh precinct, which opens on Monday, April 17. Like its sibling venues, Coyoacán Social is using its Mexican street food to give back, donating a meal to Mexico City for every guest who dines in — and also working with local charities to create a safe space within the local Redfern and South Eveleigh communities. [caption id="attachment_896477" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Founder Shaun Christie-David and Head Chef Roman Cortes.[/caption] Plate It Forward founder Shaun Christie-David has put the restaurant in the hands of Head Chef Roman Cortes, a Mexico City native and someone who has previously faced the challenges of overcoming addiction. Cortes shares Christie-David and Plate It Forward's belief in the power of food to create social change, and has pulled together a vibrant menu inspired by his mother Maru Navarro's cooking and dishes from her birthplace Coyoacán. "Seeing Roman create dishes that are so special to me and our family is beautiful, and I am so proud of how far he has come on both his cooking and recovery journey," says Navarro. Birria tacos are the star of the menu, made with shredded beef marinated in a traditional adobo, topped with melted cheese and served alongside a side of beef compote cooked overnight for dipping. Elsewhere on the menu, you'll find cochinita pibil — marinated pulled-pork tacos topped with pickled red onion and your choice of sauce — plus three types of quesadillas including a specialty chicken tinga variety. There's also a customisable nachos menu, and a range of accompaniments like guacamole, pico de gallo, horchata and churros. "Our menu is a mix of street food — 'tacos' and homemade Mexican food. It is made of some of the food that I enjoyed the most in my city, but also dishes that my mum and grandmother used to cook for our family," says Cortes. "It replicates authentic Mexican recipes which have been kept in the family for generations. My purpose is to share the love I got from the most wonderful women I've met (my mum and grandmother). I do this, with the unwavering condition of always keeping their authenticity — if I cannot make it authentic, I won't make it." Plate It Forward has partnered with property development company Mirvac, which has been working with the hospo outfit to find sustainable locations for its restaurants and activations, helping the social enterprise to donate over 150,000 meals to the Redfern and South Eveleigh communities over the years. "South Eveleigh has always been a huge part of the Plate it Forward journey, with their proximity to the communities we feed, and the people who have been with us since the start," Christie-David says. [caption id="attachment_896474" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Roman Cortes and his mother Maru Navarro[/caption] Coyoacán Social will open on Monday, April 17, at Shop 8, 1 Locomotive Street, Eveleigh — operating for lunch from 11am–3pm Monday–Friday, as well as for dinner from 6–9pm Friday–Saturday. Images: Rhiannon Hopley.
Blooming gardens, citrus fruits and delicious local food and wine are on the lineup of the annual Griffith Spring Fest. Headlining the event — which will run between Sunday, 8 October and Sunday, 22 October — is the Garden Festival where green thumbs can wander through six delightful landscaped sites, created and nurtured by local gardeners. If you can make it to the official launch party on Friday 13 October, we highly recommend you do. If for no reason other than to tuck into the super-sized communal paella that will be whipped up on the day (it's served in a very covid-safe and hygienic way, just in case you had concerns). Other standout activations include over 50 unique citrus sculptures which will line Banna Avenue for two weeks. Made from more than 100,000 locally grown oranges and grapefruit, these displays are proof that when life gives you lemons in Griffith, you transform them into robots, reclining chooks or a giant giraffe. Go old-school and join a guided bus tour, or DIY and discover the best that Griffith has to offer all by yourself. The only non-negotiable is that you squeeze the day. (Sorry). Griffith Spring Fest will run from Sunday, 8 October till Sunday, 22 October 2023. For the full event program visit their website.
Whiskey, beer, tasty eats and live music will get together for one mighty afternoon on 1 December when JJ's Place takes over Commune Waterloo. The occasion for this shindig is the launch of Jameson's latest creation: Caskmates IPA, a whiskey aged in IPA beer barrels. It's also the first day of summer. Get down there from 3–10pm to sample this new drop, as well as a limited edition Irish Pale Ale from Young Henrys, made especially for the event. Frankie's will be bringing its pinball machines, fresh apple cocktails and (most importantly) pizza from the CBD, while Newtown's Continental Deli will be serving up Mate's Plates, loaded with charcuterie, cheese and double sandwiches, alongside whiskey cocktails. Providing the soundtrack will be a bunch of live acts, including The Delta Riggs, The Gooch Palms, Sloan Peterson, Display Homes and DJs from FBi Radio. You'll get a free drink on arrival, but you'll have to pay for everything else. And here's the catch: you have to enter a ballot. If you're lucky, you'll score two tix. Image: Frankie's by Katje Ford.
Beware the luxurious worlds of Ruben Östlund's films. Beware any feelings of ease, opulence or awe that spring at ski resorts, in art museums, within the fashion industry or on high-end holidays, too. The Swedish filmmaker isn't interested in keeping his characters comfortable regardless of their lavish surroundings, and he isn't keen on ensuring his viewers remain relaxed, either, no matter how cushy their cinema chairs. To watch the writer/director's movies is to observe his on-screen figures responding to chaos flung their way, which is true of all features. That said, to watch here is to actively feel a reaction. It's virtually impossible not to experience a cascade of emotions as an Östlund-penned and -helmed picture flickers, and sometimes it's just as difficult to avoid a physical response. With his latest, Triangle of Sadness, the titular space between your eyebrows definitely gets a workout. Other than that last part, all of the above proved true of 2014's phenomenal Force Majeure, which wasn't Östlund's first or even second or third feature, but served up as clever and cringe-inducing a portrait of marriage and masculinity as the 21st century has provided (just forget Downhill, the American remake he had nothing to do with). Then, with dropped jaws over a divisive piece of art within a divisive piece of art, it was accurate of 2018's The Square, the writer/director's first Cannes Film Festival Palme d'Or-recipient, too. And, earning him that same prestigious prize again in 2022 — putting him in rarefied company alongside just eight other twice-winning directors/co-directors, in fact — it's also wholly applicable to Triangle of Sadness. This time, he has modelling, influencers and the super-rich in his sights, all in a movie that keeps doing what Östlund loves: unpacking societal structures and the divides they rely on (and cause). Make a feature with a shape in its title, score one of the biggest filmmaking awards there is: yes, that's been a nifty formula for Östlund of late. But even if he directs a flick called something like Hexagonal Dreaming in the future — or anything else with a geometrical bent, for that matter — and that too nabs Cannes' famed top gong, managing to beat Triangle of Sadness' vomit sequence is highly unlikely. For a director who enjoys cutting the privileged and supposedly prestigious down to size without opting for simplistic judgements, getting the uber-wealthy spewing their guts up on a yacht getaway is one helluva leveller. Money can't buy you a solution to basic bodily functions when food poisoning and seasickness strike, and doesn't this scathingly entertaining flick revel in that notion at its most gleefully gross. To remind audiences that responding to films and life alike is an involuntary reflex, Östlund shows a swag of his characters doing just that — to existence, and to a choppy cruise also populated by arms dealers and literal shit salesmen. It makes for unforgettable cinema, but it's also just one part of Triangle of Sadness and its sublimely shot unpacking of affluence, entitlement, social hierarchies and beauty as currency. Appearing to be coasting through perfection is an ongoing quest for Carl (Harris Dickinson, See How They Run) and Yaya (Charlbi Dean, Black Lightning), models-slash-influencers and the movie's focal point. From the outset, however, including across an opening third set on dry land and a final act that gets stranded and sandy, nothing is straightforward. Eating the rich is easy and delicious, not to mention a major on-screen trend of late (see: Parasite, Succession, The White Lotus, Knives Out and Glass Onion, just to name a few), but Östlund has much to chew. When Carl is first introduced, he's one among a sea of jobbing male models, all attempting to ply their handsomeness for a paycheque. In a Zoolander-esque moment, Triangle of Sadness points out the fashion world's inbuilt sense of class as the casting call's attendees are asked to grin like they're posing for an affordable brand, then grimace like they're in ads for an expensive line — and no, this isn't a subtle picture. Cash is an ongoing point of contention for Carl anyway, given he earns less than Yaya as male models tend to yet still largely picks up the bill for their dinners. When the duo take to the ocean to sip champagne, loll about by the pool and ignore the hardworking crew surrounded by the one-percent, he's still working the requisite angles. Meanwhile, Yaya is snapping them, recording everything for Instagram from every vantage possible. Going on vacation in an Östlund film isn't a great idea. On this holiday, under the drunken captain's (Woody Harrelson, Venom: Let There Be Carnage) watch, sunbaking on the deck gives way to those projectile technicolour yawns — and other evacuations — then to an unexpected destination. Onboard the yacht, the chasms between the haves and have nots are as glaring as the sunny weather, but that setup isn't sustainable when gale-force winds and pirates get in the way. Only Filipino toilet cleaner Abigail (Dolly De Leon, Folklore) knows how to catch fish, clean and cook them, and build a fire, after all, but Carl and Yaya's post-cruise life isn't an egalitarian wonderland. A big bank balance means nothing but beauty still means plenty — and the way that Östlund satirically carves into the resulting mayhem is equally hilarious and and astute, even when his film is both obvious and overt. There's nothing restrained about excess as its zenith — "everyone's equal," the boat's staff are ignorantly told when a guest flat-out forces them to go swimming on a shift — and there needn't be about scorching interrogations of all that overindulgence. Östlund is both blunt and oh-so-sharp, and broad yet targeted; Triangle of Sadness does love its contradictions, after all, including an American Marxist and Russian capitalist trading quotes and worldviews, the contrast between all things shiny and bodily fluid-fuelled sequences, and the perception-versus-reality of Carl and Yaya's existence across each of the picture's three sections. The game cast are up to the seesawing challenge, especially the formidable De Leon as someone even the film itself overlooks to begin with, Dickinson as the idealistic but practical Carl, and the late Dean as the enterprising yet oblivious Yaya. Having his regular cinematographer Fredrik Wenzel point a static camera their way and wait for statement-making awkwardness to gush seems like a natural decision, and it is, but Östlund remains masterful at putting the right pieces in place.
Let's face it: plastic is a major problem. A petroleum-based, entirely man-made substance, plastic is the super-villain extraordinaire in the fight against pollution. Despite our recycling efforts, a lot of plastic tends to end up in the ocean, causing enormous wastelands such as the Great Garbage Patch in the Pacific where plastic to marine life ratios have reached 6:1. You'd think by now we'd have come up with an alternative. In 2009, Coca Cola released a sustainable plastic bottle of which a ground-breaking 30% was made with raw bio materials. Not good enough for PepsiCo, who announced yesterday the successful development of a 100% plant-based bottle. The prototype is made of switch grass, pine bark and corn husks, and the company plans to use orange peel, oat hulls and potato in future versions. The bottle retains a similar molecular structure to plastic, meaning it looks and feels the same – minus the environmental impact. It's a major step forward in the future of sustainable packaging. Pepsi plans to test the logistics of mass-producing the bottle in 2012, and if all goes well they'll make the switch. Let's hope they share the idea so the phase-out of plastic production can begin. [Via Fast Company]
Every December, fans of sparkling sights are gifted a luminous feast for their eyes. No, we're not talking about Christmas lights. Regardless of whether you're bathing in a festive glow or hardly fond of all the merriment, 'tis the season for the Geminids meteor shower to soar through the sky. It began on Wednesday, December 4 and finishes for 2024 on Friday, December 20. Even better: Down Under, it's at its peak on the evening of Friday, December 13 and the morning of Saturday, December 14. If you have a telescope at hand, it's clearly a great time to put it to use. Eager to catch a glimpse, even from just your backyard or balcony? Here's everything you need to know. [caption id="attachment_927790" align="alignnone" width="1920"] A composite of 88 photos taken over 60 minutes during the Geminids by Paul Balfe via Flickr.[/caption] What Is It? Lighting up the end-of-year skies, the Geminids meteor shower is considered the most spectacular meteor shower of the year. Again, Christmas lights aren't the only spectacle worth peering at this month. The Geminids is caused by a stream of debris, left by an asteroid dubbed the 3200 Phaethon, burning up in Earth's atmosphere — and it was first observed in 1862. Some years, you can catch as many as 150 meteors every 60 minutes, so this definitely isn't just any old meteor shower. [caption id="attachment_882304" align="alignnone" width="1920"] ESO/G. Lombardi via Wikimedia Commons[/caption] When to See It The 2024 shower kicked off on Wednesday, December 4, and runs through till Friday, December 20. As with every year, it's at its peak in Australia overnight mid-month — between Friday, December 13–Saturday, December 14, specifically. If you fancy a stint of stargazing, the best time to look up is on Saturday, December 14 from around 3.08am in Brisbane, 3.30am in Perth, 4.01am in Sydney, 4.13am in Melbourne and 4.18am in Adelaide — all local time. [caption id="attachment_699423" align="alignnone" width="1920"] NASA, Marshall Space Flight Center, Jeff Dai.[/caption] How to See It For your best chances, it's worth getting as far away from bright lights as possible. This could be a good excuse to head out of the city to a clear-skied camping spot — and pray for no clouds. To see the meteors, you'll need to give your eyes around 15–30 minutes to adapt to the dark (so try to avoid checking your phone) and look to the northeast. The shower's name comes from the constellation from which they appear to come, Gemini. So that's what you'll be looking for in the sky. To locate Gemini, we recommend downloading the Sky Map app — it's the easiest way to navigate the night sky (and is a lot of fun to use even on a non-meteor shower night). If you're more into specifics, Time and Date also has a table that shows the direction and altitude of the Geminids. The Geminids meteor shower runs until Friday, December 20, 2024 and will be at its peak during the night on Friday, December 13–Saturday, December 14. For further details, head to Time and Date. Top image: Asim Patel via Wikimedia Commons.
Winter is almost upon us and, to welcome in the new season in culinary style, Carbòn — Bondi's hacienda-inspired Mexican restaurant — has a new menu to warm you up from the inside out. The new food offering will complement the chillier weather outside, featuring rich proteins, hearty vegetables and, being by the waterside, plenty of seafood, of course. And, to celebrate, we're giving you the opportunity to shout your entire crew to a lavish feast there. With a cool $400 to spend, you can impress your mates with the likes of mussels, chorizo and tomatillo, confit pork with amarillito mole and barbecue whole snapper with heirloom tomato and avocado salsa. Of course, it wouldn't be a night at Carbòn without some tacos — think lamb and barbacoa salsa, octopus with pesto chorizo and a veggie option of squash and black beans. And we don't expect you to choose between the desserts, so round it off with both the chocolate cake with coconut and lychee ice cream and the lemon curd with crunchy meringue and vanilla crumble. For a tasty night out with all your mates that won't cost you a dime, enter your details below for your chance to win. [competition]721359[/competition]
There are so many rankings in the culinary world! It was only a couple of months ago we were showering praise on Attica for being the best restaurant in Australia as per the rankings in Restaurant magazine. Then, earlier this week, Gourmet Traveller weighed in on the debate and reaffirmed Ben Shewry's Melbourne restaurant as the best. Now the Weekend Australian and their annual 'Hot 50 Restaurants' ranking have deemed Neil Perry's Rockpool as the greatest in all the land. We don't know what to believe, but we do know that having too much delicious food everywhere can hardly be a bad thing. The poll, self-described as "Australia's most honest snapshot of the national restaurant scene," was released this weekend. Rockpool Sydney took out the top gong and various other awards were divvied up across the nation. The titles of both 'Hottest Regional' and 'Hottest Victorian' restaurant was awarded to Dan Hunter's Brae in Birregurra. Wasabi was named the best in Queensland. Martin Ben from Sydney's Sepia was named 'Hottest Chef'. And Melbourne's Stokehouse, rebuilt this year after a devastating fire, was named 'Hottest Classic' without a hint of irony. Editor of the Weekend Australian Magazine Christine Middap had endless praise for both Sydney, Melbourne and South Australia in her published list, though openly derided the restaurant scene in Canberra, Brisbane and Perth. "An almost obsessive, market-driven surge in informality too often has translated to slackness [in these regions]," she said. Foodie cattiness aside, the list itself proves some interesting reading. While some Melbourne and Sydney favourites — Attica, Chin Chin, Momofuku and Rockpool — are regulars to the yearly ranking, 28 of the 50 restaurants included are new additions from last year. Chances are you'll be able to comb the list and find something new near you. However, all that depends on how much money you're willing to fork out. Though they do award a 'Hottest Value' title — Adelaide's nose-to-tail eatery Daniel O'Connell — the rest of the list is bound to set you back a few clams. Maybe save these ones for a special occasion and stick to Concrete Playground's advice for the rest of your trips out. It is The Australian after all. Via The Australian. See the full published list of restaurants here.
UPDATE: July 6, 2020: Seberg is available to stream via Google Play, YouTube and iTunes. Sorry, fans of Twilight — the most fascinating thing about the terrible vampire franchise is the haunted look in Kristen Stewart's eyes. If you were being particularly unkind to the blockbuster saga that catapulted her to superstardom, you might incorrectly call that expression boredom, but the same gaze has lingered in much of the actor's work since she stopped cuddling up to a fanged Robert Pattinson. It's the look of someone grappling with deep-seated uncertainty and conflict — that is, the type of character that has marked Stewart's superb post-Twilight roles in Clouds of Sils Maria, Personal Shopper and Certain Women. And, after a big-budget detour through Charlie's Angels' average action antics, plus dismal Alien ripoff Underwater, it's an expression she once again sports with purpose and potency in biopic Seberg. Jean Seberg, the American actor plucked from a talent search by director Otto Preminger when she was still a teenager, then cast in the starring role of Joan of Arc in her very first film, also had that same look. It's evident in her famed debut performance in 1957's Saint Joan, in her melancholy turn in Preminger's Bonjour Tristesse, and in French new wave masterpiece Breathless, the movie that cemented her place in cinema history. As Seberg shows through Stewart's dynamic yet quietly anguishedportrayal, however, that gaze became a constant off-camera as well. Focusing on a mere sliver of her career, rather than charting its eponymous figure's birth-to-death story, this engaging, intriguing thriller illustrates why a star who was acclaimed and adored across two continents came to brandish such inner sorrow — and why that, and not her career highlights, has earned this involving film's attention. Charting scandals of both the political and personal kind, infuriating government espionage and America's heated racial divisions, this twisty true tale was always going to make it the big screen. Set against the backdrop of Hollywood's fading heyday — the same period that Once Upon a Time in Hollywood chronicled so well so recently — it's the story of a woman punished, like the causes she fought to support, for refusing to remain in her place. Seberg is already an international star when the movie that bears her surname begins. It's 1968 and, following her first big roles, she has spent almost a decade setting up a life in Paris. At the urging of her agent (Stephen Root), she flies back to the US to make a few undemanding genre movies, only to fall afoul of the FBI as soon as she steps onto the tarmac. Seberg's crime? Being sympathetic to Black Power activist Hakim Jamal (Anthony Mackie) while they're in the air, joining him in a raised-fist salute when they hit the ground and — despite the fact that she has a husband (Yvan Attal) and Jamal has a wife (Zazie Beetz) — falling into bed with her new friend as well. Already surveilling Jamal, the FBI starts bugging Seberg too, tasking tech-savvy newcomer Jack Solomon (O'Connell) and heavy-handed veteran Carl Kowalski (Vince Vaughn) with listening in on her every move. As she donates to Jamal's civil rights efforts, using her status to draw attention to his cause, the government decides that she's an enemy. Through the tabloids, she's also easy to torment, discredit and destroy publicly. As the FBI's tactics ramp up, Seberg understandably reacts, while Solomon questions the morality of this state-sanctioned persecution. It's by no means a criticism of O'Connell that his storyline proves Seberg's weakest link. Whether his character is eavesdropping on his target or arguing with his medical student wife (Margaret Qualley) about his long hours, the Skins breakout turned '71 and Money Monster star is reliably excellent — but his part of the narrative always feels superfluous. In a tale about law enforcement secretly and maliciously harassing a real-life famous actor because the powers-that-be dislike her political affiliations, it's the victim that's of far greater interest, not the agony felt by one of the fictionalised perpetrators. That's doubly the case with an iconic figure such as Seberg and with such a tragic true story, something that screenwriters Joe Shrapnel and Anna Waterhouse (The Aftermath) occasionally seem to forget. That said, O'Connell's character does serve an important purpose, anchoring the film's visual approach. By giving Solomon's work-mandated spying such prominence, Australian filmmaker Benedict Andrews (Una) and Oscar-nominated cinematographer Rachel Morrison (Mudbound) give their movie an observational air, like it's surreptitiously peering at Seberg's most intimate moments as well. And that look and feel is essential. Helped by top-notch production and costume design — Seberg's hilltop Los Angeles house is all windows, boxing her into a glass cage above the world, for example — Seberg steals a meaningful glimpse at the woman behind the celebrity, smears and scrutiny. It stares deeply and carefully, seeing that haunted look that Stewart wears so commandingly, and demonstrating why that tortured gaze says everything about Jean Seberg. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ANJZWxsQ8Ag
Steak and frites: it's a timeless combination for good reason. Yet new arrival 24 York is betting the house on the quality of its combo — it's the only main on the menu at this new sharp-edged restaurant. Drawing inspiration from Paris' legendary Le Relais de l'Entrecôte, where steak frites has been the only dish served for 65 years, Sydney CBD will soon have a similarly hassle-free bistrot. Opening on Tuesday, July 23, this latest venue from Hunter St Hospitality (Rockpool Bar & Grill, Rockpool Lounge, The Collective) has moved into the former home of The Bavarian. Shifting from free-flowing German brews and pork knuckles, 24 York will serve the same MB2+ scotch fillet on Rockpool Bar & Grill's menu. However, not only is 24 York's atmosphere a little more approachable, but this premium cut is available for a fraction of the cost. Supplied by Gippsland's renowned O'Connor Beef, Executive Chef Santi Aristizabal, who leads the culinary direction, says this 220-gram steak offers the perfect balance of fat, flavour and smoky crust. Priced at $48 with your choice of sauce — chimichurri, peppercorn, mushroom or umami butter — a hefty portion of frites is also piled on your plate. Add a crisp green salad for $8 or round things out with a cheesecake tart and ice cream. As for 24 York's fit-out, don't assume the stripped-back menu extends to the interior design. With space for 160 diners, crisp tablecloths, leather banquettes and a polished bistro give the restaurant an upscale aesthetic. Yet there's little chance of feeling shocked when you front up to pay the bill — think of it like a steakhouse experience without the sky-high cost. "We've had a great 14-year run with The Bavarian, but what people want now — especially in this part of the city — is certainty, quality and value," says Frank Tucker, CEO of Hunter St Hospitality. "With 24 York, you know exactly what dinner is going to cost. No lengthy menus, no specials — just steak cooked how you like it, with your favourite sauce." Keeping with the theme, the drinks list is also succinct. Four wines are served by the glass or bottle, and beers like Asahi and Resch's are on tap. There are also four cocktails to consider: a martini, a negroni, an old fashioned and a spicy margarita. Opening daily for lunch and dinner, expect 24 York to deliver simple food, done better than most, for a solid price. 24 York launches Tuesday, July 23, at 24 York Street, Sydney. Bookings are now open — head to the website for more information. Images: Chris Pearce / Steven Woodburn.
Drape yourself in your finest pastel apparel and don a pair of sandworthy shoes — you're heading to Bondi Beach for a champagne-fuelled, seasonally-driven picnic. And when we say Bondi Beach, we mean literally — as in, on the sand. If you're thinking this is sounding a bit like one of those white dinner affairs, your antennae are on point. Named A Moveable Feast, this event has been dreamt up by none other than Antoine Bessis, event director of Diner en Blanc. But this time he's diversifying the palette — into pastel colours — and aiming to recreate the Riviera on Sydney's most famous beach. Your ticket will buy you top-notch food, wine and champagne, as well as a curated entertainment program, finishing with barefoot dancing. The tickets are $220 per person to be purchased in pairs, and include your seats at a styled table and a gourmet picnic hamper for two people with a menu by Lauren Murdoch (Rockpool, Lotus, Felix, Ash St Cellar). "A Moveable Feast is a celebration of all that is unique about Sydney. It’s a chance to play with friends and like-minded people,” said Bessis. “This city has so many beautiful and diverse spaces which showcase different facets of Sydney and its undercurrents. There will be four A Moveable Feast events throughout the year, all at a different location to celebrate the respective season."
One of the tastiest times of year is officially upon us thanks to an event that is dedicated to our favourite things — eating and drinking. Throughout May, loads of restaurants are serving up one-off menus, offering discounts on dishes and sharing culinary secrets for American Express delicious. Month Out. With so much on offer, it can be hard to decide where to go — that's where we come in. To help you find your ideal feast, we've scoured the program to bring you our top picks. From dumpling masterclasses to a progressive lunch at multiple venues, here are our picks for a delicious time this May.
Bulletin Place — the street — is quite the anomaly. Not only is it one of the more aesthetically pleasing side streets in the CBD, with its Victorian pastel-coloured building facades, but it also harbours some of the best beverages Sydney has to offer. By night, Bulletin Place — the bar — is the place to be. But during the day, crowds flock to Cabrito Coffee Traders to get their caffeine fix. The team here takes the bean business very seriously. Produce is ethically sourced from the global coffee capitals and house-roasted to perfection. Blends are on constant rotation and the old-school felt menu is a cheat sheet to nailing the tasting notes. Coffee geeks are also spoilt for choice in serving options: filter, cold drip, batch brew or plain ol' espresso. With coffee as the main affair, things are kept simple food-wise. 'Something between bread' is the general theme; there's toasties for breakfast and burgers for lunch. If you're after something sweet, the unconventional lamingtons from LusciousKiki are unmissable. In a jungle of poor coffee choices, it is clear to see why this small laneway shop generates such a buzz — and not just from the caffeine.
Flock to the city's best Asian eateries to experience some of the seriously tasty set menus they will be serving up as part of the annual Chinese New Year Festival. That's right people, Lunar Feasts is back and from as little as $20-30 per person, you can eat your weight in wontons at favourite spots like Lotus Dumpling, New Shanghai, Din Tai Fung, Dumplings and Beer and Chinese Noodle House. The more money you fork out (or should that be chopstick out?), the more decadence you can expect, with the likes of Tokyo Bird, Bennelong, Fu Manchu and Mama's Buoi offering multicourse delights for about $40-50. Most restaurants have both lunch and dinner options and some menus include an alcoholic beverage as part of the deal. Bookings are a must at all restaurants, so if you don't want to be left with the dregs of the green tea, get out your red paper envelopes and secure your place now. Image: Lotus at the Galeries.
Golden Age is partnering with 4A Centre for Contemporary Asian Art to bring you an epic double-bill of films for Chinese New Year by acclaimed indie Chinese director Luo Li. The first, screening at 6.30pm, is Emperor Visits the Hell, making its Australian premiere. It's based on three chapters from Journey To The West, a 16th century Chinese novel, generally thought to have been written by Wu Cheng'en. The core of the plot is Emperor Li Shimin's journey to the underworld — and back. Li places this traditional tale, originally set during the Tang Dynasty (618 A.D. – 907 A.D.), in modern China. "In terms of the complex relationships between power, wealth and morality, we can see the traditional dynamics still at play in many corners of contemporary China," he says. Then at 8.30pm, it'll be time for Li Wen at East Lake, making its Sydney premiere. This film-documentary hybrid explores people's relationships with East Lake. Found in Wuhan, it's a controversial scenic site in the middle of a tug-of-war between developers and residents. Li said his film was inspired by a friend's observation that, "East Lake is becoming smaller and smaller, but in my memory it is becoming larger and larger." On top of addressing the lake's plight, the film is also a character study of a police officer searching for a mentally unstable person.
Sydney winters mightn't be known for their ice and snow; however, that doesn't mean you can't slide across a frozen surface in the centre of the city. From June 29 to July 22, St Mary's Cathedral forecourt will become a winter wonderland thanks to the return of the Skating At Sydney Festival. With the event back for another year, all of the frosty fabulousness Sydneysiders know and love will return to the CBD. It's the next best thing to heading to Europe when it's oh-so-cool, just without the bone-chilling, teeth-chattering cold. The lineup of events includes not only regular ice skating, but a 'date and skate' night each Tuesday, plus a 90-themed disco evening every Thursday from 5pm. This will see you skating to 90s bangers and sipping $10 espresso martinis. Entry to the area is free, but you'll have to pay for all of the fun stuff, with the fest open from 10am–9pm Monday to Wednesday, 10am–11pm on Thursday and Friday, 9am–11pm on Saturdays and 9am–10pm on Sundays.
In case you haven't noticed, a small food fad has hit cafes and pubs around town. The Reuben sandwich has arrived and you should be excited. For those of you that enjoy a meat-free, gluten-free, bread-free, fun-free sandwich, this probably isn't the thing for you. The humble Reuben first came into being from one of two stories. It was either invented by a one Reuben Kulakofsky, a Lithuanian-born grocer from Omaha, Nebraska, or Arnold Reuben, the German owner of the once famous, now defunct Reuben's Delicatessen in New York City. Either or, I'm not fussed. I'm just happy it exists. The sandwich itself is a delicious hot pile of corned beef, Swiss cheese with Russian or Thousand Island Dressing and sauerkraut served between grilled or plain slices of rye bread. My first and best Reuben was from one of the best places to get it: Katz's Deli, New York, made famous for this scene in When Harry Met Sally. (Note Billy Crystal is actually eating a Reuben) Delicious, huh? Here's what it should look like and, to me, is a 10/10: We've decided to road test some of the places in Sydney who are peddling their version of this rad sanga. MONTY'S It's funny; looks can be deceiving. I think I sort of experienced the sandwich shop equivalent of She's All That. Monty's is a nondescript cafe situated across the road from Eastgate Shopping Centre in Bondi Junction. They do a nice array of mixed sandwiches. One even has prawns in it. Prawns! What am I, The Queen? Ha! (Wipes a laughter tear from eye.) They're made with thick-cut bread, crusty baguette or toasted panini baked in-house daily. The happily enthusiastic waiter advised I go for white bread. They do no rye (lose points). The bread is buoyant, baby. Biting into it, I close my eyes and see myself using it as a flotation device in a world where the ocean is made of hot, hot gravy. There's a lot of finely sliced corn beef, which would be great if I wanted cold slices to pack my little lunch with. Lose points. Nice slaw and correct cheese. What? Mayo instead of Russian dressing! That's....Lose points. The pickles are nice but they're little baby things that little babies would eat with their little baby gums. Lose points. Look, it's a very nice-looking and great tasting sambo, but it's kinda like buying a Kia instead of a Porsche. It's safe, reliable, has plenty of soft cushions, airbags, meat and slaw; however, it just hasn't got the vroom that a Porsche can give. I want a Porsche and I want it NOW! The coffee's great and the place has that fresh-made bread smell which, speaking of cars, would be an awesome scented car tree smell. Price: $9.50. Rating: 7.5/10. 52 Spring St, Bondi Junction RUBY & RACHEL Set in the Bondi Markets, Ruby & Rachel make two great takes on the Reuben. Firstly, the Reuben with freshly cooked corned wagyu beef, and secondly, the Rachel, using Pastrami instead of the beef. There's also a vego option, but I slapped the owner in the face and ordered my Reuben rather than write down the deets. My first Reuben in NY, which is my benchmark, had both pastrami and corned beef on it, and I will ask for that next time. Their corned beef was great, though maybe a tad too salty — or was that the sauerkraut? Mine needed more dressing. The rye was toasted and a tad too crunchy. First-world problems aside, this is a great sandwich. Price: $10 plus you can go market browsing afterwards and buy macarons. Rating: 8/10. Bondi Markets REUBEN HILLS So this is the 'Reuben' from Reuben Hills in Surry Hills. It's their 'almost a Reuben' Reuben — good disclaimer. Now, as a sandwich this is damn tasty — hell, I'd give it an 8/10 for taste — but it ain't a Reuben yo! (No idea why I've gone all Jesse from Breaking Bad...) It's the Milli Vanilli of Reubens. This showed up, and the real Reuben is somewhere else, sunning itself on a yacht in the Caribbean living off its album royalties. The meat is succulent, warm awesomeness but it's wagyu beef, not corned beef. The pickled vegetable and mayo combo works, but these aren't the droids I am looking for. The bread is topnotch, but the thing is the size of two sliders, and for $16 I left bereft and hungry. Sorry folks, but to rate it as a Reuben, I give it 6/10. By the way, their coffee is great and staff are super cool. 61 Albion St, Surry Hills SLOANE'S Sloane's Cafe apparently used to be an institution on Oxford Street, serving shoppers and locals alike for over 20 years. In hindsight, I shouldn't have ordered. For one good reason: They couldn't spell Reuben correctly on the blackboard. I now have a new rule: If you can't spell it, I won't eat it. They also had us sitting next to the kitchen bin, which was being poorly camouflaged by a framed picture of a giraffe licking its baby giraffe on top of its head. Thick crusty rye cut the roof of my mouth up so much I could've entered it as an extra in a slasher flick. The meat was apparently corned beef, but didn't taste it. The slaw was homemade and sweet, not sour and savoury. Sweet I tells ya. And there was too much cheese and dressing, a molten flow of melted mess dripping down my hands. It was almost a dressing sandwich. I feel confused and dirty like I did at the end of The Crying Game. Service is slow. The coffee is weak. Meh. Price: $12. Rating: 4/10. 312 Oxford St, Paddington REUBEN & MOORE Reuben & Moore is set on the fifth floor of the CBD Westfield. You may look like you're on a shopping montage as you hike up the escalators, but it's worth it. These guys don't mess around. The meat is there hanging on hooks, cooking. The salad and pickles splayed out before you in a long, glass case. You're there for this sandwich. Awesome. The guy cutting the rye is reprimanded on how thick the bread should be cut. Very cool. But wait, no Russian dressing? Only mustard? There's Russian salad on the Rachel? But..... I don't care. I'm drunk on meat with my horns in the air! This beast is long, like a delicious, meaty boat. The rye is superb, so soft and untoasted, like an angel's bosom. (NB: angel's bosom ain't good toasted.) The crunchy pickle is also long and sliced lengthways in the sambo. Although the meat stack pales in comparison to NY, it's still warm, although for some reason (and I don't like to throw this word around very often) not moist enough. That's where the dressing would be much appreciated, my little rock pig. Good use of slaw and cheese. I'm taking half off for no dressing, half off for not enough flesh and half off for price. Best yet! Price: $14.50. Rating: 8.5/10. Rock! Westfield CBD T's Book Cafe Apparently once owned by a contestant on Masterchef, T's is a library cafe combining two of my fave things: eating and walking away from library cafes. It was pre-made and wrapped — alarm bells. Cold meat, no pickle, grated cheese (apparently Swiss), spindly slaw and the Russian dressing was solid like buttery custard. Plus the bread was soy and quinoa. Run for the hills! They must have some pretty good books. Price:$9.5. Rating: 0/10 136-138 Avoca St, Randwick The Forresters I remember, back in the day, when Forresters did $5 steaks at lunch. Way back when things like the wheel were being invented. How things have changed. This Reuben was stingy on the beef (one cold slice that looked like it had been pulled straight out of a packet) but had a nice slaw, sauce and pickle combo going. Boring, grilled bread gone cold and also cold chips. This meal reminded me of an overpriced room service dish you'd order hungover when staying in an interstate hotel. Yes, you stuff those solid, cold fries into your face in an attempt to soak up all the regret from the night before, but invariably you always feel empty and alone afterwards. I ate this at 1pm sans hangover and sans satisfaction. Apparently they do a great burger though. Price: $10. Rating: 5/10 336 Riley St, Surry Hills FELIX Felix is nestled in Ash Street laneway, across from the elevators that lead you up in to Ivy. It has that elegant French bistro style down pat. Somebody told me, so this must be fact, that they modelled it on Balthazar in New York. It certainly does have the same vibe. I had heard some good things about this Reuben and mon dieu it truly is tres bien. Served in between some slightly toasted, thickly cut dark rye are nice hunks of warm corned beef. Mmm boeuf. The sauerkraut and swiss cheese are spot on and the pickle is large, sliced in half and served on the side. Everything is as it should be except for one small, tiny, faible thing. It has slightly seeded mustard which after a few bites cleared my sinuses better than any hard-hitting nasal spray ever could. Personally, I feel you need the Thousand Island dressing to counter the saltiness of the beef and the sourness of the sauerkraut. They all work perfectly together. Yes, the rye was dark, but I was willing to let it slide as it wasn't too overpowering in flavour as some can be. is it wasn't for the mustard, this would've been, 'ow you say, the creme de la creme of Reubens. Bit pricey, too. Price: $18. Rating: 8/10 2 Ash St, Sydney
In great news for anyone who'll be in the vicinity of the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery, Mornington Peninsula Chocolaterie and Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie in May, all three sites are dedicating the month to rocky road, as they usually do at this time of year. In 2022, they're bringing back their rocky road fest in person, too; however, for those can't make it along in the flesh — including folks interstate — the at-home version is still running as well. Get ready for a virtual month-long sugar extravaganza dedicated to sweet, nutty, marshmallowy rocky road — and yes, giant boxes filled with 31 different flavours of rocky road are available to order. As in previous years, you have a few options. If you'd like to get the mammoth Ultimate Rocky Road Box delivered to your door, that'll set you back $110. Flavours this year include Golden Gaytime, espresso martini, mint, licorice, black forest, Biscoff, pineapple, pistachio praline and many, many more. Elsewhere on the shop's delivery menu, you'll find pick-and-mix packs and a create-your-own option — where you can choose your favourite types of chocolate, nuts, extra nuts, marshmallows, jellies, extras and toppings. The boxes can be delivered anywhere within Australia for a flat rate of $15.
Fans of boozy brekkies should hop along to Manly's Rialto Lane this weekend where Rollers Bakehouse and Archie Rose are teamed up to bring you a gin and pastry fiesta. From 10am on Saturday, July 20, hungry punters can lounge in the Rollers courtyard with an inventive croissant in one hand and a gin cocktail in the other. For eats, there's a charcoal-infused pain au chocolat ($6), one stuffed with ham, cheddar, gruyere, pickles and whole grain mustard ($8.50) and a lemon myrtle number made with lemon myrtle custard and curd and topped with white chocolate. The cocktails are priced at $12 each and can be matched with any of the specialty croissants on offer, though the team recommends you pair them as follows: the vodka- and honey-spiked Banana Roller with the pain au chocolat; the N' Mary (a gin bloody mary) with the ham and cheese option; and the Lemon Myrtle Collins with, yes, the lemon myrtle croissant. If you miss out on this weekend's festivities, Archie Rose and Rollers will be hosting the same event again out at the Rosebery distillery on Saturday, July 27 from noon. No tickets or bookings are necessary for either — just rock up with at least a $20 in your pocket. Images 1-2: Rollers by Kitti Gould.
The force is strong with this one — the Lego-building force, that is, with the largest collection of life-sized Lego Star Wars models ever assembled, as well as the biggest touring Lego exhibition, set to hit Australia in 2025. Earlier in 2024, news arrived that Lego Star Wars: The Exhibition was on its way in this very galaxy, world-premiering Down Under. Now, exactly when and where you'll be able to check it out has been revealed. Melbourne has locked in the first-ever Lego Star Wars: The Exhibition season — and yes, of course it'll open on Sunday, May 4. Melbourne Museum will be filled with more than eight-million bricks, all making models based on the George Lucas-created space saga. What music goes best with turning all that Lego into a Star Wars fan's dream? 'Luke's Theme', aka the franchise's main tune? 'The Imperial March' when things get tricky? 'Parade of the Ewoks', just because? That's a question for Ryan McNaught aka Brickman, who has indeed been spending time turning plastic rectangles, squares and other shapes into a recreation of a galaxy far, far away. The exhibition is set to take 25,000-plus hours of building, which is occurring at McNaught's headquarters in Tullamarine. Here's a question for attendees, too: which tunes will pair well with walking through this Lego Star Wars wonderland? You've got a few months to think about it, but you can start getting as excited as a Skywalker learning how to first use a lightsaber. The full list of models that'll feature hasn't been unveiled so far, but one will be life-sized — and that'll be a Lego Star Wars first. A huge 64,759 bricks are being used to craft the three-metre-high X-wing Red-5, taking 382 build hours. Attendees can also expect to see battle scenes between Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader, plus Qui-Gon Jinn and Darth Maul duelling, and also Emperor Palpatine's throne flanked by two Royal Guards. If you're keen to check it out and you don't live in Melbourne, you'll need to head to the Victorian capital to wander through Lego Star Wars: The Exhibition. As well as the hosting the world-premiere season, which will run until Monday, January 26, 2026, the stint at Melbourne Museum is an Australian exclusive. While you're there, you won't just be looking at all things Star Wars in Lego — you'll be able to get building yourself. As it constructs an immersive experience and follows in the footsteps of the Jurassic World franchise, which has also scored the Lego treatment from Brickman, Star Wars: The Exhibition has plenty of material to draw upon. On-screen, the series spans the initial film trilogy that released from 1977–83, then the prequels from 1999–2005, then the sequels — including The Force Awakens, The Last Jedi and The Rise of Skywalker — from 2015–2019. Rogue One, Solo, The Mandalorian, The Book of Boba Fett, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Andor, Ahsoka, The Acolyte: the list goes on across the big and small screens, including the wealth of animated efforts in the saga. "Building these iconic scenes and characters in Lego Star Wars form is an extremely complex task — taking the humble Lego brick and using it by the millions to translate into Star Wars builds and models at an epic scale the world has never seen before," said McNaught about Lego Star Wars: The Exhibition. "My team and I are super excited to launch this mind-blowing experience right here in Melbourne. My inner seven-year-old self still can't quite believe this is happening. I can't wait till May the Fourth next year to be able to share this incredible galaxy-first exhibition with the fans." Lego Star Wars: The Exhibition will make its world-premiere from Sunday, May 4, 2025, running until Monday, January 26, 2026 at Melbourne Museum, 11 Nicholson Street, Carlton. Head to the exhibition's website for more details and to join the ticket waitlist. Exhibition images: Museums Victoria.
DON'T DESPAIR! These words should be printed in large, friendly letters across towels all over Sydney. We may have lost the first game, but there are more to come, and faith is a grand thing. More importantly, why don't you spend your time inspiring your faith at the International FIFA Fan Fest live site at Darling Harbour? Even if you're not that into football, and at this time of year I don't really understand how you can't be, there's an awful lot to keep your cockles warm and your eyes entertained these wintery nights. Of course most eyes will be looking towards the giant, floating, inflatable screens broadcasting every game live, but if you're looking for some earlier entertainment, check out the Cassette Kids (Thursday, June 17, 8pm) and Cassie Davis (Friday, June 18, 8pm) on the floating stages, freestyle football tips and round robin competitions at Tumbalong Park, football trivia and opportunities to meet the Matildas and players from Sydney FC. There's also international food stalls and the chance to try out your own Lucas Neill-inspired skills, all running until July 12.
A new Japanese cafe in Ashfield has garnered much attention since it opened earlier this year. But its owners, former chefs at Lotus Barangaroo and Billy Kwong, didn't set out to open a cafe — they just wanted to make great miso. "We started off making our own miso paste and dressing, and people kept asking us how to use it," says Donna Chau, who co-owns Koku Culture with Kenji Okuda. "So we decided to open a cafe around these products, where we'd make everyday food but with a Japanese twist." Think smashed avo on thick-cut milk toast from Newtown's Azuki Bakery ($16); zucchini, corn and nori fitters with yuzu sour cream and chilli salt ($15.50); and a matcha soufflé pancake ($16) topped with brûléed custard and served with fresh fruit and honey comb. [caption id="attachment_755408" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Brûlée matcha pancake by Kimberley Low[/caption] You'll find these three on Koku Culture's all-day brekkie menu — a second lunch menu kicks off from 10am. Everything on both, apart from the seared wagyu ($23), comes in under $20, so a brunch here won't bust your summer holiday budget. On the later menu, there's a confit king salmon with green tea soba noodles and house-made miso dressing ($19) and the popular crispy rice burgers (with rice in place of buns) featuring beef, koji chicken or a corn fritter (all $15). Another fan-favourite is the wok-fried eggs, which is a little like a deconstructed okonomiyaki (savoury Japanese pancake): the crispy eggs are laid on a bed of purple cabbage and topped with bacon, dancing bonito flakes, Sriracha and okonomiyaki sauce. A daily specials board offers the likes of a sesame-crusted tofu noodle salad with spicy soy dressing and a matcha sundae, which we hope makes a reappearance during the hotter summer days. And for drinks, there's Single O coffee and weekly changing blends, plus matcha, hojicha (roasted green tea) and yuzu teas. You can order iced versions of all of these, too. [caption id="attachment_755403" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Matcha sundae by Kimberley Low[/caption] The intimate 29-seat Ashfield cafe is meant to feel like an extension of Chau and Okuda's nearby home. It's a simple fit-out with herringbone tiled walls, light timber tables — with a mix of low, high and bench seating — and heaps of natural light. If you (understandably) develop a miso addiction after visiting Koku Culture, you can nab the duo's packaged products for takeaway at the cafe and at the Erskineville Farmers Market. A vegan kimchi will also be released imminently and a range of soy sauces is slated for release sometime in 2020. Find Koku Culture at 1/355 Liverpool Road, Ashfield. It's open from 7am–4pm daily. Images: Kimberley Low.
The Lamb Council of Australia (otherwise known as Meat & Livestock Australia/We Love our Lamb) is back on our screens — and this time, it's political. Their 2017 campaign has just launched and, whether you're a lamb fan or not, it's already spreading warm fuzzies across the country. The ad opens on a trio of First Nation peoples picking a spot for a primo beach barbie, but it's not long before the First Fleet and other nations arrive, all by boat (accurate historical fact). While everything's underway, the most recent 'boat people' are seen coming towards the shore, at which point ex-MasterChef contestant Poh Ling Yeow asks, "Aren't we all boat people?" Damn right. It's an inclusive, anti-racism message that's sure to win the lamb lovers and creative agency The Monkeys a spate of awards despite trotting out a few well-worn stereotypes. And although it is an obvious comment on Australia Day — the way we celebrate it and the day we celebrate it on — the ad doesn't actually make any overt references to it. Nonetheless, it's a huge shift away from their regular Australia Day campaign and a move towards something much more inclusive. Plus, it's got a diverse group of Aussie celebrities to help out, including olympian Cathy Freeman, rugby legend Wendell Sailor, cricketer Adam Gilchrist, comedian Rhys Nicholson and, of course, a small cameo from Sam "Sam Sam the lamb man" Kekovich. The result is one ultimate Australian beachside barbie.
Lately, the world has seen all sorts of weird and wonderful shoe creations, from sneakers made from recycled ocean plastic to beer-proof kicks to those chicken-and-waffles-inspired Nikes. But this latest sneaker design find might just be the strangest yet, with some bright sparks in Amsterdam crafting a shoe with soles made from chewing gum collected from the city's streets. Dubbed Gumshoe, it's a collaboration between companies Gum-tec and Publicis One, plus local shoe brand Explicit Wear, and it's out to stomp all over The Netherlands' costly chewing gum problem. Apparently, the country's streets rack up around 1.5 million kilograms of the stuff each year, creating the second biggest litter issue after cigarettes. The Gumshoe sole features a special kind of rubber crafted from used gum that's been recycled into a sustainable material. They're available in black or hot pink, with a map of Amsterdam stamped into each sole. On Gumshoe's website, Mustafa Tanriverdi, from Marketing and Investments, Amsterdam Metropolitan Area said, "with these shoes, we take a step closer towards gum-free streets and at the same time create awareness amongst gum users without being preachy." If you fancy a pair of gum-based kicks for your own feet, head over to the Explicit Wear website. Via Designboom
With 2012's Wadjda, Haifaa al-Mansour became the first female filmmaker from Saudi Arabia to make a full-length movie. Fittingly, she achieved the feat via a powerful tale about a girl breaking boundaries — by fighting to ride a bicycle in the street, an activity that's by no means routine in the Middle Eastern country. A hopeful yet truthful film that depicts the present-day reality for Saudi women, while also remaining committed to dreaming of a different future, al-Mansour's directorial debut marked the first-ever feature shot entirely in her homeland, too. Accordingly, she smashed barriers in multiple ways, including both on- and off-screen. Nine years later, she demonstrates the same spirit again with The Perfect Candidate. After exploring another female trailblazer in 2017 biopic Mary Shelley, then pondering the beauty standards imposed upon women in 2018 rom-com Nappily Ever After, al-Mansour delivers the ideal companion piece to her applauded first picture — this time focusing on a young Saudi doctor who tackles her town's misogynistic and patronising attitudes by running for local council. No matter the day or situation, the ambitious Maryam (debutant Mila al-Zahrani) is repeatedly reminded that women aren't considered equal in her community. In one of The Perfect Candidate's early scenes, an elderly male patient writhes in agony, but is more upset about the fact that she'll be treating him — until Maryam's condescending boss proclaims that male nurses can easily step in and do the job for her. When her recently widowed musician father Abdulaziz (Khalid Abdulraheem) goes away on tour, she attempts to fly to Dubai for a medical conference and subsequent job interview that would see her move to Riyadh. Alas, she's stopped from departing because her dad hasn't updated her travel permit, and she can't leave unless he rectifies the paperwork. A male cousin (Ahmad Alsulaimy) in a role of authority within the government might be able to assist, but even the bonds of blood aren't enough to get her through the door to his office. He's interviewing and approving candidates for the municipal election, so Maryam puts her name forward just to progress past his secretary. That still doesn't help her make her flight, but it does send her in a different direction. While already struggling to convince her employers to pave the road to the town's emergency medical clinic, she decides to run to fix that specific problem — and the more backlash she receives for putting herself in contention, the more determined she is to campaign for change. The Perfect Candidate is filled with moments that convey Saudi Arabia's strong and strict gender divide. The film might start with Maryam driving — a right that was only granted to Saudi women in 2018 — but engrained patriarchal attitudes nonetheless shape every aspect of the character's life. "Keep her away from me! Don't look into my eyes!" the aforementioned patient screams, and horrifyingly so. The reactions from airport staff and bureaucrats when she tries to travel without her legal guardian's approval aren't as blunt, but they still infuriatingly endeavour to put Maryam in her societally deemed place. When she releases a video announcing her candidacy, even her younger sister Sara (Nora al-Awad) is mortified, not to mention embarrassed by the scathing comments sent Maryam's way by women and men alike. During a TV interview with a male journalist, she's asked if she cares about female issues, such as gardening. Naturally, she isn't impressed. And at an event to sway male voters — one where tradition dictates that she can't address them directly, forcing her to rely on new friend Omar (Tareq Ahmed al-Khaldi) to play host — she's instantly dismissed because she's a woman and mocked because her late mother was a wedding singer. When Maryam is glaring daggers at dismissive colleagues from beneath her niqāb, swapping fierce words with her public detractors or doing her best to care for patients that abhor her presence simply because she's a woman, first-timer al-Zahrani is a furious force to be reckoned with. But again and again, she also relays the weariness that lingers beneath every concerted effort to overcome the boundaries applied to Maryam due to her gender. Indeed, two of the film's very best scenes — and two of al-Zahrani's firm highlights — swing from one extreme to the other. The ferociousness that echoes from the screen during Maryam's television appearance sits in stark contrast to the baked-in exhaustion and exasperation that's evident when she's sitting alone in her family's courtyard on election night. Al-Mansour guides nuanced and multi-layered performances out of the bulk of her cast of newcomers, and constantly has Patrick Orth's (Toni Erdmann) naturalistic cinematography peer at them closely, but she has unearthed a powerhouse portrayal from her magnetic lead performer It would've been easy for al-Mansour and al-Zahrani to lean exclusively on anger, dismay and indignation — Maryam's, as well as the audience's — to fuel The Perfect Candidate, but that's not the only approach they take. The sights seen, attitudes expressed and scenes witnessed also help dive into the daily minutiae for Saudi women, including glimpses of the rare occasions when they're permitted a reprieve from male oversight. Both heated and warm exchanges between Maryam, Sara and their elder sister Selma (Dae al-Hilali) are intimately observed. So too are the wedding receptions and parties that the latter sibling stages in her job as an events planner. And the film provides broader context as well, by also spending time with Maryam's worrying father during his travels. He isn't simply concerned about his daughters' choices, but also about the need for him to even play the culturally demanded role as their guardian. Abdulaziz doesn't ever steal the movie's focus, but his subplot does make it plain that the oppressive status quo is also unwieldy for those who just want the best for their children. As penned by al-Mansour and producer/co-writer Brad Niemann, The Perfect Candidate's script may hit plenty of foreseeable narrative beats; however, this rousing, spirited and gripping feature equally unpacks life in Saudi Arabia today, avoids painting it as straightforward or clear-cut, and agitates passionately for change. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0GC--RZ3jOo
Just hours after its series finale aired, Prime Video has confirmed that The Summer I Turned Pretty will conclude with a feature film. Announced on Thursday, September 18, the adaptation of Jenny Han's bestselling trilogy will wrap up with a movie written and directed by Han herself. "The Summer I Turned Pretty has struck a chord with audiences everywhere, creating moments of joy, nostalgia, and connection that have made it a global sensation," Courtenay Valenti, head of film, streaming and theatrical at Amazon MGM Studios, and Vernon Sanders, Global Head of Television at Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios, said in a joint statement. "We're proud of the series' extraordinary success and couldn't be more excited to partner again with Jenny Han to bring fans an unforgettable next chapter." Han added: "There is another big milestone left in Belly's journey, and I thought only a movie could give it its proper due. I'm so grateful to Prime Video for continuing to support my vision for this story and for making it possible to share this final chapter with the fans." Since premiering in 2022, The Summer I Turned Pretty has become a global phenomenon. Its second season, released in 2023, more than doubled the first season's viewership within its first three days. Season three debuted in July 2025 and was streamed by 25 million viewers worldwide in its first week, becoming Prime Video's fifth most-watched returning season. The series has also helped launch the careers of stars Lola Tung, Jackie Chung, Christopher Briney, Gavin Casalegno, Rachel Blanchard, Sean Kaufman and Rain Spencer. No release date has yet been set for the film. Images: Erika Doss | Amazon
As you'd expect, The Vic is forward rolling into the New Year with yet another free, all-day, mini-festival crammed with live music. If you're still jittery from the night before, you can get in on the action, but if you're on the comedown, there's ample scope for relaxing. Leading the charge is raw, edgy, bluesy rock duo The Mess Hall. If you caught The Babadook this year, you'll be familiar with front man Jed Kurzel, as he was responsible for the creepy, creepy soundtrack. He's since been nominated for a Screen Music Award for Dead Europe. Also in the programme are self-described 'zigzaggers' The Delta Riggs; Adelaide outside rockers Bad//Dreems, fresh from their US tour; unmissable singer-songwriter Steve Smyth, currently gigging around the nation to promote new album, Exits; Davey Lane, who just launched Atonally Young; and High-tails, whose 'Bending Over Backwards' has been inspiring a good dose of triple j love these few months past. Doors will open at midday and stay that way until late.
Two years ago Contemporary Dance wunderkind Shaun Parker astounded Sydney Festival audiences with his show This Show Is About People. It cleverly blended contemporary and classical dance with operatic singing and acrobatics to make a story about ordinary people stuck in a mundane transit lounge feel exhilarating. The show won the Australian Dance Award for Best Independent Production and was nominated for four Green Room Awards. This year he’s back with his follow up Happy as Larry. It explores the "9 archetypal personality types" and debuts at the Parramatta Riverside as part of Sydney Festival with a score composed by Nick Wales (CODA) and Bree van Reyk (Holly Throsby/Darren Hanlon).
Quirky giftware store Octopus Design is the younger sibling of Paddington's Opus. While the Newtown venue is smaller, it makes up for it in heart (and cheekiness). Octopus Design is an absolute goldmine for those last-minute gift shopping moments — from books and games to eclectic homewares and gadgets, you'll be able to find something for absolutely everyone. The store is always changing and the ever-revolving stock means that Octopus is a totally different shop every time you visit. Plus it's pet-friendly, so you can stop in when you're walking your darling pooch around the streets of Newtown. Images: Arvin Prem Kumar
Life can feel like it's getting more and more hectic, especially after the past 15 months or so. But, thankfully, clever Australians keep coming up with new and creative ways to de-stress. You might've already hurled an axe at a target, for instance, or smashed plates, TVs, printers and computer monitors with a baseball bat. Now, Sydney's latest high-powered stress reliever has arrived, allowing you to get messy and wild with a supply of colourful paints and some white walls. Gladesville's new Smash Splash — an offshoot of the Melbourne venue of the same name — does include a classic smash room, where punters can unleash their destructive tendencies on unsuspecting glassware and breakables. But it also plays host to a 'splash room', inspired by an offering that's gone gang-busters across the USA. Here, you're invited to tap into your inner Jackson Pollock and get gloriously messy at your own private paint party. You can book the splash room for 30-minute sessions, with up to four people allowed in at once and your choice of tunes on the speakers — all for $50 per person. Don your protective gear, step inside and get as creative as you like, hurling cups of paint, smashing or batting paint-filled balloons or simply going to town with your hands or some paintbrushes. Best of all, there's not a scrap of cleaning up involved. In the future, Smash Splash will also feature a 'crash room', where you'll don sumo suits and play in a ball pit. Whether you choose to smash, splash or, soon, crash, the venue is all about helping its patrons alleviate stress in unique ways. And yes, it's available to book for parties, should your whole crew need a therapeutic way to work through their frustrations. Find Smash Splash at Unit 2, 37 College Street, Gladesville. It's open on Friday 6–8pm, Saturday 11am–6pm and Sunday 11am–6pm.
In the latest effort to do the environment a solid by reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfill, Western Australia has banned takeaway coffee cups that are lined with plastic and therefore can't be composted. Getting your caffeine fix to go in the state now means either sipping out of paperboard or bringing your own reusable cup, with WA leading the nation in scrapping the single-use item. Rules on plastics such as shopping bags, drink containers and straws vary state to state across Australia, with WA the first to completely ditch plastic-lined takeaway coffee cups. All plastic lids are also now banned, with scrapping both coming into effect on Friday, March 1, 2024. The move in Western Australia isn't sudden. It's part of the phase two of the state's Plan for Plastic, and comes into effect after a 12-month transition period, plus widespread consultation. The aim is to save 154-million-plus cups from landfill each year. And the fines for non-compliance are hefty, at up to $5000 for individuals and $25,000 for businesses. Anyone that supplies takeaway cups for hot beverages — be it coffee, tea, hot chocolate or anything else — is covered by the ban. Plastic trays for takeaway foods have also been phased out in the state at the same time, while lids for takeaway food containers, bowls, plates and trays will be ditched from Sunday, September 1, 2024, as will non-compostable plastic produce bags. Finding alternatives to disposable cups, and ways to recycle them, has been a focus across the country for years — as has encouraging folks to bring their own reusable cup. Cafes have trialled 'more recyclable' versions, given out free coffee if you have your own cup and reduced prices. Complete bans at the cafe level have popped up, too, as have reusable coffee cup sharing networks. WA's statewide ban on non-compostable takeaway coffee cups hasn't been implemented before Down Under, however, and here's hoping that other states take note. South Australia is set to do the same from September, while Queensland has announced previously that it's working to identify alternative cups and intends to ban plastic-lined versions, with no date set. The ban on non-compostable takeaway coffee cups and plastic lids in Western Australia came into effect on Friday, March 1, 2024. For more information, head to the WA state government's website.
This cosy bar has become a favourite with Bondi locals, both for its food and beverage options as well as its comfortable surrounds. Forget about OTT beach cocktails: wine is the drink of choice here, served by the bottle or the glass. You'll find drops from all around the country as well as New Zealand, France, Argentina and beyond — but you don't need to be a wine snob to enjoy what's on offer, as the drinks list provides short descriptions below each tipple. In addition to reds and whites you'll find a small but tempting selection of spirits, or you can ask the waiter about their secret beers and ciders. The food offerings are similarly tempting, with a mouthwatering array of tapas share plates along with a generous selection of cheeses. The decor is low-key and casual, with dim lighting, comfy couches and seats for around 20 people, making Speakeasy an ideal place for a quiet night out with friends.
Ask just about any international visitor and they'll tell you how it is: Australia is packed full of creepy crawlies that are all dangerous and mostly deadly. We locals know the situation's not quite as sketchy as all that, but that there are plenty of native snakes, spiders and insects you probably wouldn't want jumping on your face. Well soon, you'll be able to determine the nasty ones from the nice ones with just a quick snap on your smartphone camera, thanks to new app Critterpedia. Currently in the beta testing phase with an artificial intelligence training platform being developed with CSIRO, Critterpedia is the brainchild of a regular Aussie mum and dad, Nic and Murray Scarce. The idea was spawned after fielding continuous questions from visiting British friends and family regarding our scary local wildlife population. So, how does this creature-identification app work? You simply use your device to take a photo of any snake or spider, then Critterpedia will call on its trained algorithm system to classify the beast, also offering details on its family, genus or species. It's designed to educate and raise awareness about our much-maligned Aussie creatures, while removing some of that fear factor. While Australia is home to more than 2000 species of spiders of 170 species, many of them don't pose a serious threat. As you can imagine, there's been a stack of AI work behind Critterpedia's hefty catalogue of info, with hundreds of thousands of images fed to the platform to help train its speedy identification function. CSIRO's digital specialist arm Data61 is collaborating on a special machine-learning engine that can sort through the masses of data to accurately classify species in just moments. While the app is in this development stage, users can do their bit to help train up the algorithm by submitting their own photos of local snakes and spiders. The extra imagery will assist in fine-tuning the platform's recognition systems in the lead-up to its launch. The Critterpedia app is currently in development. You can sign up here to become a tester and contribute photos to help train its algorithm.
28 Degrees is one of Byron Bay's true luxury accommodations that balances an ultra-convenient location in the heart of town centre with the sanctuary-like feeling and privacy of a true retreat. Some of the major selling points of this beautiful guesthouse include the fact the property is an adults-only stay for guests 21 years and above, eco-conscious elements in the lighting and water operations, the absence of television screens throughout ensuring that you can quite literally switch off from distractions, and all the thoughtful details — from the organic bed linen to Hunter Lab skincare products and provided beach towels, umbrellas and bikes to get you from one side of Byron to the next. The devil in the details are courtesy of 28 Degrees owner Deb Garske, an interior designer whose professional experience comes through in the level of curation you'll encounter during a stay here. No two rooms are quite the same but all have the same level of care and consideration including a complimentary minibar stocked with local produce. There are four different types of room: the Classic Rooms which include access to common areas like the lap pool and a reading room. The Luxury Master Room includes views of the Cape Byron Lighthouse and a large private balcony. The Lighthouse Room which does not offer pool access but includes lighthouse views and and a claw-foot bath for post beach soaks. And finally there's the Plunge Pool Rooms which include a private plunge pool, outdoor shower and private deck. And in the not-too-distant future, 28 Degrees will get the addition of a new wing, which will include the 'Luxury Villa Residence' — a two-story villa boasting a designer kitchen, private entrance, large private plunge pool and walk-in wardrobe. Serious honeymoon material. The Marvell Street location puts you just minutes away from the best of Byron, from Main Beach to the town's ever impressive lineup of great food and drink options (the excellent natural wine bar Bar Heather is a leisurely 10 minute stroll). But the best thing about 28 Degrees is the absolute privacy and ability to properly switch off in a genuinely lovely environment.
Keli Holiday — the solo project of Peking Duk's Adam Hyde — is set to play two special headline gigs in Melbourne and Sydney this November, giving fans the chance to experience the energy of his latest single 'Dancing2' live on stage. The shows are locked in for Melbourne's Howler on Thursday, November 14, and Sydney's Mary's Underground on Saturday, November 16. Both will see Holiday deliver his signature mix of raw emotion and euphoric sounds, with Hyde describing the sets as a chance to "share some joy together and let's sweat." Born during the creative standstill of the pandemic, Keli Holiday became Hyde's outlet for heartbreak, sonic experimentation and reinvention. Now, with 'Dancing2', he's channelling it all into a slow-burning, string-laced modern love story inspired by meeting his partner Abbie Chatfield. "This song is about meeting a love that seemed a world away," Hyde explained. "There's so much noise and distraction going on constantly … We were both just dancing through the show as we all are. There was a definitive moment when we decided to connect with each other on an unspoken battlefield and we have been dancing together ever since." 'Dancing2' has been climbing the ARIA charts, peaking at number one on the Top 20 Australian Singles list. It's also made its way onto Spotify's Daily Top Songs, cracked the Shazam Top 50, and hit number one on TikTok's Viral Chart. The track marks a bold step toward the next chapter for the 2025 Rolling Stone Australia Readers' Choice Award winner, following 2022's KELI and 2024's JESTERMAN EP. Tickets for Keli Holiday's Sydney and Melbourne shows are on sale now via the official website.
Early in Certain Women, lawyer Laura (Laura Dern) sits in a meeting with two men. One is a difficult client, Fuller (Jared Harris), who's trying to get worker's compensation despite the fact that Laura has spent the past eight months telling him that he has no case. The other is another lawyer she has asked to assess Fuller's prospects in the hopes that reality might finally sink in. Within seconds, it does. "Okay," Fuller replies meekly when he hears the news that Laura has already told him again and again. The fact that he'll quickly accept his fate from a man but not from a woman isn't lost on her. In her sixth feature film, writer-director Kelly Reichardt gives Laura a sliver of time to vent her frustration, but it's just that: a sliver. She's soon driving Fuller home and listening to his complaints, and later that night, she's forced to get out of bed and head to his former place of employment after he takes a security guard hostage. Laura doesn't ever literally grit her teeth as she bears what life throws her way, but as she wears the weight of a lifetime spent living in men's shadows (and cleaning up their messes), you can be damn sure that that's how she's feeling inside. The first of three loosely connected vignettes set in rural Montana, the first chapter in Certain Women may be brief, but it certainly leaves an impression on the audience. The same can be said of the subsequent segments, each of which unfolds in Reichardt's signature, understated way. The middle chapter tells the tale of Gina (Michelle Williams) and her husband Ryan (James Le Gros) as they attempt to secure a pile of sandstone from their elderly neighbour, while the third explores the unexpected connection that's formed when rancher Jamie (Lily Gladstone) wanders into a class on school law taught by Beth (Kristen Stewart). Each part of the film focuses on different women in different scenarios, yet there's never any question that they form part of a complete package. The same tensions arise, even if they manifest in a variety of ways. So too do the same feelings simmer, ensuring that every masterfully-composed frame seethes with thoughts left unspoken but sentiments still made plain. Certain Women mightn't overflow with dialogue, but it says plenty. That's Reichardt's modus operandi. Since making her debut with 1994's River of Grass, she has proven a patient but probing filmmaker, as subsequent efforts including Wendy and Lucy and Night Moves ably demonstrate. Whether she's lensing in on rugged terrain or weather-beaten faces, the act of looking is an empathetic and revelatory experience in her films. And fortunately, the cast of Certain Women is more than up to the scrutiny. Gazing at Dern, Williams, Stewart and the particularly entrancing Gladstone, we see entire stories unfold in looks and glances. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1_Lznehy2-s
Humid nights, the constant humming of cicadas, sunny mornings and an afternoon southerly – it can only mean one thing – summer has arrived. To make the most of the warmer months, stocking up with all the products to survive and thrive is crucial. Or, given that summer in Australia is also the Christmas (and party) season, some of these goodies could also make the perfect summer gifts. Luckily, Amazon has heaps of cool stuff perfect for summer break. Here are some of our top choices. 1. Pool Torpedo We're sorry to break it to you, but whoever didn't have one of these as a kid was missing out. But it's never too late. The Triggerfish Torpedo is the pool toy of all pool toys, designed for an underwater shootout or dodge-the-torpedo, you're bound to have endless hours of fun with this little thing. Plus, it will quite literally last forever. 2. Sand-Free Beach Towel If you've been living under a rock, allow us to introduce the latest craze – sandless beach towels. If there is one thing we don't love about the beach, it's the fact that the sand gets everywhere, and somehow, you can never seem to get it all out of your towel, no matter how ferocious you shake. This sand-free towel from BonGu is extra-large, super soft, won't fade and is made from eco-friendly material. With a range of colourful designs, it also makes for a pretty snazzy beach accessory. Plus, it comes with a travel bag, so you can easily store it away when you're not using it. 3. Underwater Camera The AKASO Brave 4 Action Camera is one of the ultimate summer gifts for those who spend most of their summer in the water. With this little thing, you can still get all the good shots without worrying about getting your camera getting wet. Don't be fooled, the quality is as good as any other camera. It features ultra HD 4K 30fps and 2K 30fps video recording, 20MP. It's a great gift for your friends or family who love diving, surfing and snorkelling, or even for yourself. 4. Aperol Spritz 4 Pack Everyone's favourite summer drink, stocking up the fridge with Aperol Spritz's for summer is basically a rite of passage at this point. Perfect for summer gifts or those days you are short on time or are too busy lazing at the beach, this Ready-to-Serve pack of 4 is our go-to. Just as good as mixing an Aperol Spritz yourself, enjoy the blend straight from the bottle. 5. Snorkel For those who seek adventure, this snorkel from Yakiter is a good accessory to keep in the car for those unexpected moments when you come across the perfect spot. With a single-layer lens, panoramic view and tempered glass with anti-fog treatment, you will never miss a beat. The comfortable design and flexible breath tube also means it's super easy to breathe and drain, so you can focus on the fish. 6. Bucket hat We're all for a fun bucket hat no matter the season and come summer; you can never have too many hats. A fun summer gift or a playful addition to your hat collection, the Taidor Cotton Bucket Hat comes in a range of funky designs, and it's reversible, so you can switch it up depending on how you're feeling. The 100 per cent cotton material means the hats are lightweight and breathable (perfect for hot days.) 7. Picnic Basket Not your everyday picnic basket, the Hap Tim Wicker Picnic Basket Set comes with everything you need just in time for picnic season. In the wicker basket, you will find a foldable picnic table, an insulated cooler bag, two sets of cutlery, two plastic wine glasses, a bottle opener, and salt and pepper shakers. It's cute and it's practical, what more could you want? It even comes gift-wrapped with ribbons – it's simply screaming to be one of those special summer gifts. Or, if you love it too much, keep it for yourself – we don't blame you. 8. Beach Umbrella There's nothing worse than that fresh winter-skin-summer burn. The best way to avoid it? The AMMSUN Boho Outdoor Umbrella is the way to go. With a simple boho design and cute tassels, it makes the perfect, practical and aesthetic beach or backyard accessory. The canopy provides UPF50+ protection and will block over 98% of UV rays, keeping you cool and protected. Plus, a steel pole means this thing won't go blowing away when that southerly comes around. 9. Neck Fan Sometimes, it's just too hot to leave the comfort of the fan or air-con. But, for those days you can't get away with staying at home, we've got the next best thing – the JISULIFE Portable Neck Fan. Simply place it around your neck and enjoy a contrast, hands-free fanning of air so you can get along with your day. It will run for over four hours, depending on the speed, and it's quiet enough to hear your own breath. With the hot summer that's been predicted, we will definitely be grabbing one of these. 10. Wine Cooler When it comes to summer gifts, you can't get much better than this. Forget wine buckets. The Huski Wine Cooler is bound to be one of our most-used summer goodies. This stainless steel gadget keeps your wine chilled for up to six hours and the adjustable height means it fits most wine or champagne bottles. Plus, a flexible-lock expandable design means your bottle will stay firmly in place while pouring. Perfect for any occasion, and as we all know, there's nothing worse than warm wine. Images: Supplied by Amazon. Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links, Concrete Playground may earn a commission when you make a purchase through links on our site.
What do you get the Gelato Messina fan who has everything, including a freezer filled with ice cream, plus gelato-inspired candles, lip balm, lube and body wash, too? The perfect kicks to don while eating gelato, thinking about gelato, going out to get gelato and wishing they had more gelato, of course. While Messina already has its own clothing line, now the sweet-treat brand is launching its first-ever range of sneakers. And, like chain's wild and wonderful gelato flavours, these shoes are a limited-edition special. After fellow Sydney-born dessert chain Tokyo Lamington teamed up with the artists at Customs Den on its own footwear earlier in 2023, Messina has now gone and done the same. This time, pairs of Nike Dunk Highs have been given a handpainted makeover, which is never a small feat. With these gelato-hued shoes, each set took between eight and ten hours' work. Gelato is obviously a wide-ranging theme — as Messina fans know, the variety of flavours that the chain scoops up is limited only by its team's imaginations — so these sneakers hone in on one of its favourites. If you adore the brand's dulce de leche gelato, as everyone who tastes it does, then you'll spot why these new shoes feature caramel and cream tones. Yes, Messina's Argentinean caramelised milk, which it makes in-house, is the colour inspiration for these multi-tone kicks. Also featured on the shoes: Messina cartoons and the company's name, so everyone will know why you're sporting some truly rare footwear. Only 100 pairs are available, all numbered from one to 100, and they unsurprisingly don't come cheap. You'll pay $700 to show your love for Messina, gelato and dulce de leche on your feet — and every one will be made bespoke for each customer. Custom Den is taking pre-sale orders now until Wednesday, May 31, unless they sell out earlier. Once you've nabbed yourself a pair, you can expect them to be delivered within six-to-eight weeks. For more information about Gelato Messina's sneakers, or to buy a pair, hit up the brand's website.
Gone are the days when mobile phones didn't fit in anyone's pocket and Snake was the only game available; however the process of charging your trusty device hasn't changed much over the years. Cable ports might look a little different and smartphones have definitely gotten smaller, but juicing up your handset still takes the one thing we all don't have enough of: time. Well, it does at the moment — even if you have your own portable charger always sitting at the bottom of your bag, and even if you've scoped out every free charging station and spare powerpoint around town. Enter an Australian researcher who wants to make this timely chore not only quicker but instantaneous, all through the use of quantum batteries. In fact, the University of Adelaide's Dr James Quach is planning to build the world's first quantum battery, which will harness the unique properties of quantum mechanics. He's just been appointed the institution's newest Ramsay Fellow — a scheme that aims to keep local bright minds working to advance scientific research — and will now spend the next four years trying to create quantum batteries to replace the ones in everyday electronic devices. If you're wondering how it all works — and how your phone, Kindle, computer or other gadget will go from one to 100-percent charge faster than you can click your fingers — it's based on a feature of quantum mechanics called entanglement, which sees two objects sharing their individual properties. Accordingly, the more batteries that are placed together, the more powerful their charging capacity. "If one quantum battery takes one hour to charge, then two would take 30 minutes, three would take 20 minutes, and so on," Dr Quach explains. "If you had ten thousand batteries, they would all charge in less than a second." While the concept has been discussed in papers since 2013, the academic plans to "take the theory from the blackboard to the lab." More than that, the ultimate goal is to build larger quantum batteries for use beyond simply making sure your iPhone keeps buzzing. "The long-term aim is to scale up, to build bigger batteries which will support renewable energy technologies by making it possible for continuous energy supply no matter the weather conditions – rain, hail or shine," says Dr Quach.
Stay tuned. More info coming soon.
Sydney Harbour's about to host some pretty big beats. Kicking off on Friday, September 29, Tinder, Tropicool Events and UNDR Ctrl are bringing back the hugely popular electronic music series to Sydney's floating stage, The Island LIVE. The Island has played host to some seriously big names, from Charli XCX to Royal Blood. Previously, The Island LIVE has hosted the likes of Hayden James, Touch Sensitive, Bag Raiders, and Motez — nights have sold out in under 48 hours. This time around, it's all beats. Kicking off the series, Australian dance legends and triple j Friday Night Shuffle hosts The Aston Shuffle will be cranking out a huge DJ set. They'll be joined by Bag Raiders, Polographia and Annie Bass. That's just the first event in The Island LIVE series — there'll be more events announced down the track. Tickets ($59–69) include a return water taxi from the Man O' War Steps and two complimentary drinks on arrival. Pretty excellent deal.
Sydney, we know you love a food pop-up. Right now you're gearing up for the final Burgers by Josh pop-up at The Annandale and Sydney's first fried chicken and wine festival this weekend. And we've got another one for you to add to your list. After a sold out two-day burger and ice cream pop-up last month, Gelato Messina is bringing their own mini food festival, Messina Eats, back for a second edition. And this time it's all about the bao. Messina has teamed up with Melbourne bao geniuses Wonderbao to create a menu as dreamy as the soft, doughy pillows themselves. Along with traditional pork buns, they'll also be steaming their cult gua bao stuffed with pork belly, fried chicken or fried tofu. Because every good bao needs an accompaniment, they'll also be serving up potato gems with kimchi, spam (?) and melted cheese on top with PS Soda to wash it all down. And for dessert? Deep fried ice cream stuffed with egg custard tart and served with mango pudding and passionfruit caramel. Yep. The whole thing will go down over two days on Friday, July 29 and Saturday, July 30 in the carpark at Messina's Rosebery HQ. They'll be open from noon for lunch and dinner until sold out. The last Messina Eats sold out quickly, but we're told they'll be better equipped this time round. Messina Eats will run from noon until sold out on July 29 and 30. Find more information here.
