Starting a new business is daunting, even if you're confident that you've got a game-changing idea or unrivalled product on your hands. We're here to help — we teamed up with the business solution experts at Square to chat to three stalwarts of Sydney's hospo scene, and got their key points for starting a small business. The Love Tilly Group know a thing or two about getting a business off the ground. Matthew Swieboda, Nathanial Hatwell and Scott McComas-Williams are behind some of Sydney's best restaurants and wine bars, including Love, Tilly Devine, Ragazzi, Fabbrica, Dear Saint Éloise and Palazzo Salato. Bitter Phew has been pouring craft beers from Australia and around the globe at its Oxford Street digs for a decade. Founded by Aaron Edwards and Jay Pollard, the upstairs bar was recognised as Australia's Best Beer Venue by the Australia Liquor Industry Awards in 2023, and voted Australia's Top Beer Venue by Beer & Brewer Magazine in 2020 and 2017. Helmed by Kenny Graham and Jake Smyth, The Mary's Group started with a burger shop in Newtown in 2013. Since then, the group has expanded to open five other eateries, two music venues (Liberty Hall and Mary's Underground) and natural wine brand P&V Wine + Liquor Merchants. From staying flexible and trialling new systems to the importance of communication and media, The Love Tilly Group, Bitter Phew and The Mary's Group share what they've uncovered from starting their respective businesses. What were the most important steps you took before opening your business? "We opened our first business, Love, Tilly Devine, in the backstreets of Darlinghurst way back in 2010. We were young and built the business on the smell of an oily rag with the idea of giving the people of Sydney access to premium and exciting wines, without the preconceived notion that wine bars needed to be stuffy," shared Managing Director Nathanial Hatwell. "At the time, we didn't know where this journey would take us, but the concept of Love Tilly still rings true to this day. Nailing that concept was fundamental to the success of the group that we have become." Though staying true to your original concept and brand is important, it's also vital to be able to adapt. Prior to opening each Mary's venue, Kenny Graham and Jake Smyth have tried to reevaluate and evolve the brand from its original roots on Newtown's back streets. "As we grow as people and as a company, we want to open the doors wider, metaphorically speaking. We wanted our own kids to be excited about going to a Mary's venue. [We tried to] Embrace current popular culture more, expand the offering a little, and make it fun for a wider range of people." Bitter Phew's Aaron Edwards had some practical tips. "Work on engaging events to garner new customers and help build your base." He added, "Have enough liquid cash — try to have reserves for those ups and down in the first year. Where possible, avoid borrowing excessive money as you want to have the freedom to work on your business." What's one key thing you wish you knew before you opened your doors? "As we've grown, systems and processes have been introduced in order to streamline our operations. Some of those have been trial and error, which have unfortunately cost us time and money," responded Hatwell. "In retrospect, we could have been better at doing our research in the lead-up and ensuring that the correct systems were introduced from the get-go." Edwards focused on the importance of communication, branding and media. "I thought that what we were doing would get enough attention, so I didn't push media enough. I would partner with media partners earlier and communicate clearly how you are building a diverse and interesting offering for the community." Graham and Smyth had a similar answer. "Speed, options, and clear and concise visual information is a must. People need to know at a glance who you are, what you do, and how they go about getting it. Barriers to entry need to be removed at any point." [caption id="attachment_780347" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nikki To[/caption] What methods did you use to generate buzz and attract customers before opening? All three businesses emphasised the significance of communication, marketing and media. "Over the years, we've been lucky enough to work with some of the best in the industry when it comes to marketing, PR and social media engagement, which we continue to rely upon to this day," said Hatwell. Bitter Phew had an advantage by "Making sure our socials were up and running before [opening], and connecting with key influential people in our industry to ensure we were on the right track." "Great communication at every point is key," explained Graham and Smyth. "We engaged with local businesses and the community, and we spent months working on new branding ideas to help introduce ourselves to what we perceived as a new market. We engaged our PR Agency, Electric Collective, to help land some important media pieces. We staged a marketing campaign via our own social media and EDM channels. Little by little and piece by piece, it helps towards creating a structured and controlled narrative." [caption id="attachment_979760" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Trent Van Der Jagt[/caption] How did Square help you stay organised? "Square makes the POS side of things super easy. It's modern tech for a modernising industry, and it takes the time and pain out of what used to be a laborious process," shared Graham and Smyth. "The system looks great, operates fluently and allows us to tap into our business instantly. We can check the app on our phone and see how business is going. The ease of transparency allows us to use the tools available to us to operate a more dynamic business. They say that retail is detail and Square helps us greatly with keeping our eyes on the important things." "The Square dashboard is phenomenal, providing oversight across all of our venues on a day-to-day basis," added Hatwell. "The payment terminals are super user-friendly and allow us the opportunity to customise the guest experience." Find out how Square can kickstart your business at squareup.com.
The seasoned hospo trio behind Sydney CBD favourites Clam Bar, the Taylor Swift-endorsed Pellegrino 2000 and Bistro 916 (now sadly closed) have created a love letter to Northern Italian cuisine with their latest venture. Carved into the sandstone foundation of sister venue Clam Bar, Neptune's Grotto heroes comforting regional specialities in an intimate New York-inspired setting. Neptune's Grotto has taken over the former digs of Grotta Capri, an Italian seafood restaurant known for its delightfully corny, ocean-themed decor and sixty years of old-school hospitality. Paying homage to the address' heritage and its nautical aesthetic, the dining space – once covered floor-to-ceiling in oyster shells – has been transformed into an intimate subterranean oasis with a statue of Neptune presiding over his domain at its centre. New York-style booths and judicious lighting strike a balance between the underwater theatrics and the elegance of Northern Italian cuisine, maintaining a warm and inviting appeal with an undercurrent of whimsy. [caption id="attachment_944247" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Dan Pepperell, Mikey Clift and Andy Tyson[/caption] As with their other Sydney venues, chefs Mikey Clift and Dan Pepperell are adding contemporary flourishes to Northern Italian classics for a one-of-a-kind culinary experience. Unlike Pellegrino 2000's more relaxed trattoria-style cuisine, the pair's new menu delights in more high-end handmade pasta dishes like stuffed tortellini, while incorporating classic dishes from Italy's Emilia-Romagna region. Likewise, Andy Tyson is breaking out his sommelier skills to bring visitors a passionately curated drinks list starring gems of the Northern Italian regions. Tyson has pulled together an exciting collection of wines from quintessential producers of the Barolo and other regions, coupled with a bevy of champagnes and creative updates on classic cocktails. [caption id="attachment_910199" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Pasta at Pellegrino 2000[/caption]
Another year has come and gone, and Sydney's cinema community is ramping up for the return of one of its biggest events: the beloved short film festival Flickerfest. If you're not impressed by the slate of Hollywood's full-length film lineup anymore, then you need an evening at this festival of short films, which happens to be Australia's only Academy® Qualifying International short film festival. Returning to Bondi Pavilion for the 34th year running, Flickerfest runs from Friday, January 17 to Sunday, January 26 in Sydney before it packs up to tour screens across Australia. The festival program is comprised of 200 top films (handpicked from over 3500 entries) that will delight audiences while vying for prestigious awards like the Flickerfest Award for Best International Short Film, the Yoram Gross Award for Best International Animation, the Panasonic Lumix for Best Australian Short Film and the Flickerfest Award for Best Documentary - all of which are Academy® qualifying. Flickerfest prides itself on promoting talented, diverse filmmakers of all ages and walks of life. Elements of the program like Rainbow Shorts celebrate the work of LGBTQI+ storytellers; FlickerKids gathers the best of the family-friendly program; FlickerUp showcases the work of young filmmakers and Short Laughs keeps the audience laughing with a focus on hilarious comedy titles. All this, as mentioned, takes place in the stunning Bondi Pavilion. A great location like this means you can enjoy a meal or a swim in Bondi before the show. Then grab a drink from the festivals bar before you take your seat in the comfy indoor air conditioned theatre or outdoors in the Pav's palm tree-lined courtyard and enjoy a night of films under the stars with a drink in hand. After wrapping up its Sydney stint, Flickerfest will embark on its annual nationwide tour, appearing in over 40 venues across the country throughout 2025. The 34th Flickerfest International Film Festival will run from Friday, January 17 to Sunday, January 26. Tickets and the full 2025 program are available now. For more information, head to the website.
The meat's in the oven, the pavlova's ready to decorate and the Christmas carols are cranked. All that's left to do is take a load off with a drink of choice. This year, that might be Four Pillars' Australian Christmas Gin, with the much-loved distillery bringing back this limited-edition release for another festive season. Conceived as holiday spirit distilled in a bottle, this tipple combines all flavours and notes you'd normally taste in a classic Christmas pudding. That means warm spices and dried fruit like nutmeg, sultanas and citrus peel alongside pine-like juniper, cassia and star anise. The result? Gin that has that familiar botanical scent, but tastes like Christmas. Now on its tenth annual release, the inspiration for Four Pillars' Christmas Gin involves more than just the mere arrival of the holiday season. Instead, Co-Founder Cameron Mackenzie wanted to replicate his late mother Wilma's Derby Day tradition. With the family listening to the races, she'd whip up a Christmas pudding, with its warming scent taking over the entire house. To make each release even more special, Four Pillars teams up with a different artist every year, asking them to produce a brand-new label that reflects what an Aussie Christmas means to them. For this merry season, 2021 label artist and 2023 Archibald Packing Room prize winner, Andrea Huelin, has composed a piece incorporating elements from every past release. "Who would've thought ten years ago that Australian Christmas Gin would still be the gift that keeps on giving? This recipe is one we'll be passing down for generations to come, and all thanks to Wilma and Cam," says Four Pillars Head Distiller Sarah Prowse. Alongside complementary stocking stuffers like jars of gin and orange relish and Christmas gin puddings, Four Pillars has also revealed four jolly cocktails in collaboration with award-winning bartender Nick Tesar. From Gin & Ginger to Strawberry Smash, these easy-to-make concoctions will make listening to your odd uncle's ravings a little more bearable. Four Pillars' Australian Christmas Gin is now available online and from select bottle shops. Head to the website for more information.
Maybe Sammy is not only on our list of the best bars in Sydney — it's on just about everyone else's too, including anyone who gives out bar awards. It was named in the top 50 bars in the world in 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022 — and named the Best Bar in Australasia at The World's 50 Best Bars in all four years. Back in 2019, it was also named the Best International New Cocktail Bar at the 2019 Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards in New Orleans. It was even named the Best International Bar Team at the Tales of the Cocktail 2022 Spirited Awards. The accolades come hard and fast. And it's clear to see why. The team, led by Creative Director Martin Hudak, has created one of the most spectacular cocktail menus — ranging from mini cocktails to the martini trolleys and extra opulent Premium Pours made from some of the finest spirits in the world. Its coffee cocktails are also that extra bit special. There's a total of five different versions, including the classic Espresso Martini made with vodka, Mr Black coffee liqueur and a shot of espresso and the Irish Coffee made from Irish whiskey, Honduras Montecillos coffee, muscovado, honey, almonds and cream — this last one being the perfect dessert cocktail. Head to Maybe Sammy for one of these bad boys after dining elsewhere in The Rocks. And if you want to try Maybe Sammy but don't live in Sydney, it also sends a series of bottled cocktails all over Australia. Go for the Jasmine Negroni, Eucalyptus Gimlet or Chamomile Martini. They also make a great present for your cocktail-loving pals. A team with this many awards isn't going to let you go hungry either. The food menu comes equipped with the expected range of bar snacks done to the highest standard, including Sydney rock oysters, truffled cheese toasties, tinned fish and mortadella focaccia. The Maybe Sammy experience is complete with a fit-out that emulates a high-end hotel bar. Designed by Sydney's LD Studio, the space is opulent, with pink velvet banquettes, gold lamps, brass fittings, marble tiles and lots of indoor plants. You can pop into Maybe Sammy for happy hour and taste your way through the mini cocktails or go full on treat 'yoself by ordering the extra spenny tipples — the likes of which you will not find anywhere else in Australia. Either way, you'll see why the team have won so many local and international bar awards. Drink up. Images: DS Oficina Updated Tuesday, March 21, 2023. Appears in: The Best Bars in Sydney
Oxford Street's legacy as a go-to street for Australian designer boutiques and independent stores may have seen a few changes in the recent decade, but it's still a shopping destination for many Sydneysiders, weekend after weekend, for its range of intimate shops, art galleries and bookstores. Life is extra sweet when you combine that experience with dipping in and out of charming cafes to keep you caffeinated as you shop. Whether you're eyeing up a new dress or looking for new plant pots for your home, the streets of Paddington (and its fringes) are the place to spend a leisurely afternoon browsing. With so much ground to cover, it can be tough to know where to start. With a little help from American Express, we've compiled a list of places sure to meet your shopping needs — and you can shop small here with your Amex Card.
Under current COVID-19 restrictions in Australia, there are various interstate border restrictions in place. Up-to-date information on restrictions are available at your state's health websites (click through for NSW, Victoria and Queensland). Of course, even border closures don't mean you can't start dreaming — bookmark this for when you can explore freely once again. It's not exactly news that connecting with nature has all sorts of benefits for your wellbeing. And, given what we've been through over the past year and a bit, there's probably never been a better time to get out and explore the natural beauty of our great land. One solution: pack your tent and sleeping bag, and embark on a multi-day hike. However, leaving the city behind doesn't mean you have to forgo every creature comfort. The new Sonos Roam is designed to take your backcountry adventure to the next level. Sleek, drop-resistant and waterproof, this lightweight, technology-packed speaker slips straight into your swag so you can soundtrack your day, dawn till dusk. [caption id="attachment_812488" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism and Events Queensland[/caption] COOLOOLA GREAT WALK, QUEENSLAND Set on the Sunshine Coast between Noosa North Shore and Rainbow Beach, the Cooloola Great Walk spans the entire Cooloola Recreation Area and its wonderful landscapes. With the trek's total distance clocking in at 102 kilometres, you're going to need to set aside around five days to journey from end to end. But this strenuous hike is more than worth it, as you wind through lush rainforests, coastal woodlands and the stunning Carlo Sandblow. With the region's heathlands coming to life with spring wildflowers between August and October, now is the perfect time to start planning. [caption id="attachment_812482" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] YURAYGIR COASTAL WALK, NEW SOUTH WALES Linking a myriad of beaches, sandy tracks, lagoons and rocky outcrops, the Yuraygir Coastal Walk is ideal for those who want to fully appreciate Australia's rugged coastline. Stretching for 65 kilometres and considered around a four- to five-day hike, emu footprint signposts guide the way as you travel from the surfing hotspot of Angourie (pictured above) to the sleepy village of Red Rock, located about 40 kilometres from Coffs Harbour. As well as stunning coastal views for the duration of the hike, you'll also encounter endless opportunities to chill on the beach and listen to tunes in peaceful solitude. Head there between May and November and you'll likely see whales embarking on their annual migration. [caption id="attachment_812474" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Visit Victoria[/caption] TWELVE APOSTLES LODGE WALK, VICTORIA Don't want to embark on a hike that's going to leave you physically exhausted? The Twelve Apostles Lodge Walk is designed to keep you in luxurious comfort as you complete a 40-kilometre trek through the Great Otway and Port Campbell National Parks. Rather than struggling with your tent poles in the cold, you'll be whisked away at the end of each day to a private eco-lodge situated on Johanna Beach. You and your fellow hikers will feast on a sumptuous meal prepared by the live-in chefs, before enjoying a glass of wine in the spa, where you'll rejuvenate your weary legs in style. [caption id="attachment_812490" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism and Events Queensland[/caption] GOLD COAST HINTERLAND GREAT WALK, QUEENSLAND Stretching 54 kilometres from the tiny town of O'Reilly to the Springbrook Plateau, the Gold Coast Hinterland Walk is a stellar way to spend three days off the beaten track. Leaving from the renowned O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat — where we recommend spending a comfy night before you hit the trails. On the hike, you'll explore the species-rich Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area of Lamington and Springbrook Plateaus via the scenic Numinbah Valley, as well as the ancient volcanic landscape of the Tweed Volcano which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountain range. Upon delving back into the rainforest, you'll be guided into Springbrook via a network of tranquil streams and waterfalls. Celebrate your journey by uncorking a bottle at one of the nearby wineries. [caption id="attachment_812483" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW[/caption] GIBRALTAR-WASHPOOL WORLD HERITAGE WALK, NEW SOUTH WALES Get amongst New South Wales' Northern Tablelands by completing a challenging 45-kilometre loop that links the Gibraltar Range and Washpool National Parks, part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Area. With around three full days needed to finish the journey, there's no need to rush your way through eucalyptus forests, granite tors and impressive falls. You're going to want some waterproof footwear as there are marshy streams and hidden waterfalls to navigate throughout the hike. Make sure you also pack some binoculars, as the region is also known for its endangered bird species. [caption id="attachment_812489" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Tourism and Events Queensland[/caption] K'GARI (FRASER ISLAND) GREAT WALK, QUEENSLAND Multi-day hikes don't come much more scenic than this 90-kilometre journey across K'gari (Fraser Island). With the full distance taking most people around six to eight days, this relatively relaxed trek exploring the world's largest sand island is punctuated by overnight stops at many of its most beautiful sites, including Lake McKenzie, Lake Wabby and Wanggoolba Creek. You'll want to stay alert as things do get pretty remote when you head deep inside inland tropical rainforests before you eventually return to the pristine coastline at Dilli Village. Along the way, though, you'll be rewarded with incredible scenery and ever-changing landscapes including coastal heathland, mangrove forest, woodland and rainforest along the way. [caption id="attachment_812480" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Don Fuchs; Destination NSW[/caption] NEW ENGLAND WILDERNESS WALK, NEW SOUTH WALES Consider yourself a serious hiker? The New England Wilderness Walk might just be the challenge you've been waiting for. Although it's only 33 kilometres in length, it's regarded as one of the toughest hikes in the region due to its rough, unmarked track, and quad-burning gradient. Best completed across three days, you'll descend over 1000 metres from the lofty New England Tableland down towards the edge of the Bellinger River. Along the way, you'll make several river crossings and wander through long-abandoned farms and stock houses. If you're feeling extra adventurous, you can extend your trek and canoe or kayak down the river from Cool Creek Crossing. [caption id="attachment_812473" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Visit Victoria[/caption] WALLABY TRACK, VICTORIA Rolling countryside, volcanic hills, built heritage and mineral spas — the 52-kilometre Wallaby Track will definitely not bore you. Beginning in artist Norman Lindsay's hometown of Creswick and ending at Lake Daylesford, this three-day hike takes in a variety of terrain and elevations. Make your way through imposing forest and airy farmland, before walking next to an abandoned 19th-century railway track, which is still the longest timber track in the state. The home stretch sees a gradual uphill give way to a sharp descent and then a tough ascent, before you reach the blissful Lake Daylesford. Extend your stay and unwind in one of the restorative mineral spas in the area. Find out more about the new Sonos Roam at the official website. Need some tunes to soundtrack your stroll? Check out the all-Aussie playlist, curated by Concrete Playground, below: Top image: Destination NSW
Kazzi Beach Greek is taking over Sydney's Greek coastal fare, offering one suburb at a time. First was Balmoral, followed by Manly — now the generous plates of Hellenic-style delights have crossed the bridge to land in Bondi Beach. Bondi makes for an appropriate setting for the restaurant, with its whitewashed walls and ever-staring mati, it's transportive from the Eastern Suburbs all the way to the island that inspires it all: Kastellorizo. There's plenty on the menu that any diners of the other two establishments can attest to as excellent, especially considering it covers the bases of breakfast, lunch and dinner. Early morning visits are met with fruit bowls, breakfast wraps, omelettes, toast and Greek pastries. Visit in the afternoon hours and the offering explodes into a huge mix of flavours. The standout entry is the chargrilled octopus — flavoursome and tender — but you could opt for something simpler like a takeaway-only souvlaki wrap to go and eat on the sand. Eat in and you can tear into a mezze plate of breads, dips and grilled seafood; maybe a generous serve of spit roast meat and salad. Large groups will be well catered f0r too, with platters and banquet menus for big headcounts and big appetites.
The best breakfasts in Sydney are as diverse as the city they're served in. Sure, you'll find Vegemite on toast and every conceivable iteration of smashed avocado on the menu at these Sydney breakfast spots, but with this list we've endeavoured to look beyond the obvious and expand your culinary horizons for The Most Important Meal Of The Day. After a breakfast burrito? We have you covered. Japanese-style brunches? They're well represented here. Hungover and desperate for bacon and bloody Marys? Let us take care of you in your hour of need. We even have a few healthy options where the sugar and fat might be left out, but flavour and fun still reign supreme. And the best breakfast in Sydney isn't necessarily found in a cafe — although many are. You'll also uncover some of the best early-morning treats in bakeries, bagel shops and delis. We have all bases covered in this guide. Read on to see where you'll next be fuelling up before work or relaxing during a long, lazy Sunday morning with mates. Without further ado: here are our picks of the best breakfasts in Sydney. Recommended reads: The Best Cafes in Sydney The Best Weekday Breakfast Spots in Sydney's CBD The Best Coffee Shops in Sydney's CBD The Best Bottomless Brunches in Sydney
Fancy a little Parisian charm without leaving Sydney? Pioneering hidden bar Door Knock launched their new concept earlier this year, pairing a French-inspired neighbourhood bar with the vibe of an underground speakeasy. Both the venue's decor and culinary offerings underwent a significant transformation — dark, sultry and subterranean, the glow-up certainly lives up to its European inspiration. Still hidden behind an unassuming entrance with nothing but a polished brass pineapple doorknocker to let you know you're in the right place, don't expect the Nordic decor that came before once you get inside. Now, the space has been adorned with vintage French mirrors, herringbone panelling, marble tables, leather seating and dimly lit lampshades. For those who've wandered Paris' streets, there's a good chance you've stumbled in somewhere similar. The menu is also rejuvenated to suit Door Knock's new mood. Led by Head Chef Joe Slakey, dishes are designed for sharing and are likely to change with the seasons. The wine offering has also been rejigged, with an expanded menu highlighting drops from France, Italy and Australia. Signature cocktails evolve based on the bartenders' "current obsessions" but may include the likes of the Bullfighter with tequila, mezcal, apricot, lime and coconut cream. "We're not trying to be a high-end restaurant, we've created an accessible and affordable menu, while not sacrificing on big, bold flavours," says owner John Grace. "It was important for us to pay homage to Door Knock's history, while also ushering in a new era, one which allows you to step off from Pitt St and into another world." Door Knock has introduced a new, invitingly affordable lunch special, commencing on Thursday, October 9. Once you've found the hidden bar, you'll be rewarded with one of Slakey's mains and a glass of wine for just $25. Rotating weekly, choose between scotch fillet, crispy pork belly, crab cakes and beef sliders. The lunch special is available from noon to 3pm on Thursday and Friday. Images: Trent van der Jagt.
The rooftop bars just keep on coming this spring. Next up it's The Rooftop Sydney — not to be confused with Pyrmont's also newly opened The Rooftop. This one is a Hamptons-inspired garden terrace that just opened on level three of the CBD's Shelbourne Hotel. It boasts a retractable roof, floor-to-ceiling windows and views across Sydney Harbour, too. A go-to in all weather conditions, the alfresco dining spot has luxury vacation home feels with hanging rattan chairs, herringbone tiles, tropical palm trees and festoon lights. The share menu focuses on local seafood, salads and skewers, all prepared in the rooftop's dedicated open kitchen. Think kingfish ceviche with pomegranate, jalapeño and nam jim ($19), Alaskan king crab salad with avocado and mandarin ($24) and Moroccan chicken skewers served with romesco sauce ($19), plus truffle and mushroom arancini ($18) and salt cod croquettes ($19). In true Hamptons fashion, long lunches are encouraged and, if you really want to live like the upper crust, a pop-up Champagne bar is also on offer from October 3 — with two-hour bottomless champagne packages priced at a cool $155 per person. Cocktails (all $17) play to the Hamptons vibes, too, with poolside-inspired concoctions like the North Haven (white rum, pressed watermelon, strawberry, mint and lime), Hayground Cove (Aperol, gin, orangeflower syrup, lemon and cherry bitters) and the Holy Hacienda (spiced tequila with agave, orange liqueur, cranberry and cucumber). There are also cocktail carafes to share ($35), including the Emma Rosé with gin, strawberry and cranberry juice. And, if you come by on Thursday nights, it's slinging special cocktails for a tenner. Open three nights a week from noon until late, The Rooftop is a solid weekday live music option with acoustic sessions on Wednesday nights and DJ sets on Fridays.
Gelato probably isn't your regular first meal of the day, but it's not unheard of either. For instance, Sicilians stuff sweet ice cream inside warm bread to create brioche con gelato. But despite Messina's Italian roots, the team is ready to reveal a more Aussie-inspired anytime treat, where gelato meets muesli as part of a limited-edition scoop. Created in collaboration with regenerative macadamia farmers, Brookfarm, a brand-new breakfast gelato flavour — Good Morning, Honey — is about to hit Messina stores nationwide for one week only. Combining creamy honey gelato made with Australian rainforest honey, each bite is packed with chewy clusters of Brookfarm's Toasted Macadamia Muesli, coated with churned coconut butter for even more crunch. "This is the first time Messina has ever used muesli in a flavour, and what an innovation it has been. As soon as the team tasted Brookfarm's muesli, we knew it would make a great addition to a gelato flavour," said Donato Toce, head creative chef and co-owner of Gelato Messina. Yet this breakfast-inspired ice cream is celebrating more than just a timeless morning meal. Brookfarm is marking its 25th birthday with this first-of-its-kind collab, growing from a rundown dairy farm in the Byron Bay hinterland to a thriving macadamia orchard responsible for top-notch muesli, granola, porridge and more. "Whether you're a breakfast lover, a gelato lover, or a bit of both, we're confident people are going to fall in love with this flavour," says Brookfarm CEO Will Brook. "Messina has married the flavours of Brookfarm's Toasted Macadamia Muesli and local Rainforest honey perfectly with their creamy gelato base." Available from Thursday, November 27–Thursday, December 4, or until sold out, a scoop of Good Morning, Honey is your chance to enjoy guilt-free cereal for dinner or gelato for breakfast. Just swing by your nearest Gelato Messina store to discover whether ice cream goes hand in hand with the first meal of the day. Gelato Messina and Brookfarm's Good Morning, Honey gelato is available in Gelato Messina locations nationwide from Thursday, November 27–Thursday, December 4, or until sold out. Head to the website for more information.
Bringing a hearty serve of la dolce vita to Barangaroo, Gina is a breezy, sun-washed diner inspired by the classic coastal trattorias of the Amalfi Coast. Brought to life by Wondrous Entertainment (Izgara, Malika Bakehouse), the 170-seat venue brings an approachable produce-led menu, aperitivo hours and handmade pasta to a prime harbourfront location. Interiors by Tom Mark Henry strike a balance between laidback Mediterranean charm and contemporary polish — think rattan pendants, golden terrazzo, walnut timber, glossy amber tiles and plenty of natural light. The venue features a mix of indoor and outdoor seating, including a semi-private space inside for intimate get-togethers and one of Barangaroo's largest terraces, complete with heating and cover for year-round al fresco dining. In the kitchen, Group Executive Chef Michael Chang (ex-Maydanoz) and Sicilian native Giuseppe Pappalardo (ex-Molto Italian, Canberra) are plating up refined takes on classic Italian fare. It's a crowd-pleasing selection that's just as suited to a lingering, grazing sundowner as it is to a hearty lunch or dinner. Start with a spread of creative antipasti like a punchy crostini topped with tonnato, cherry tomato and fresh tuna; golden, generously sized arancini with a gentle gorgonzola and pea mix; and an umami-laden calamari lifted with soppressata and XO, before moving to a daily-rotating selection of five house-made pastas — highlights might include hand-rolled leek and ricotta-filled caramelle in brown butter, Moreton Bay Bug pappardelle with chilli oil and cherry tomato and a grass-fed lamb ragu, rosemary and parmesan casarecce. There's also a curated edit of cold cuts sliced to order, as well as a grill section that includes a trio of steaks served with house-made mustard, with prices starting at $35. Cocktails also lean into the coastal vibe. Veteran bartender Grant Collins (Gin Lane, Zephyr) oversees a tight menu that riffs off the Italian canon — the sgroppino is backed by house-made lemon sorbet, the house negroni is given extra depth with a pink peppercorn and dill-infused gin and the Sole Spritz is a summer-ready combo of Aperol, coconut, passionfruit, lime, lemon prosecco and mint. Meanwhile, a 200-strong wine list features top Australian producers and an international selection of old- and new-world picks, spanning everything from easygoing whites to full-bodied reds and rare cellar finds. Images: Steven Woodburn.
Taylor Swift, Tyler, The Creator and Creed walk into a bar. No, it's not the start of a terrible dad joke, but it could be your soundtrack to an evening at Enmore listening bar Deadwax. Taking over the former Enmore Country Club space, Deadwax is the brainchild of Dan Teh (OTiS, Glebe's The Little Guy) and Conor O'Brien (OTiS, Tio's), who've tapped Daff Blacksmith (Riley St Garage, NOLA Smokehouse and Bar) and Kate Howlett (Bar Planet) to oversee the kitchen and bar, respectively. The late-night spot joins the growing ranks of Sydney venues that put music front and centre, and the soundtrack at Deadwax is as eclectic as they come. The team has partnered with Leichhardt record store and listening room Crosstalk Records to curate a sprawling collection of vinyls that spans decades and genres — the playlist will feature everything from soul, funk and disco to bangers from the nineties and naughties and more recent releases and, yes, even a nostalgic hit of Creed from time to time, all piped through speakers from Marrickville's Translate Sound. There'll be DJs on weekends, request nights during the week and, opening soon out the back, Enmore's only karaoke room. The bar menu is just as diverse as the playlist — expect signatures like a ponzu old fashioned, a silky smooth sesame oil martini and a throwback Midori-backed melon colada, alongside a fridge lined with tins of -196. Food is by no means an afterthought, with the kitchen dishing up the likes of wagyu pastrami sandos, roe-topped snacks and jazzed-up instant noodles until last call (1.30am on Fridays and Saturdays). The red-tinged space reflects the same mix of playfulness and attention to detail. The bar top is made from 70 layers of individually resin-dipped denim, while the wavy ceiling was designed with sound treatment in mind, allowing you to chat comfortably even with the music pumping.
There are harbour views, and there are harbour views. And Solaré, the full-service restaurant, cocktail bar and Mediterranean-style beach club, boasts some serious harbour views — as one might expect, given that it's housed in a 150-foot classic superyacht which sets sail twice daily from King Street Wharf for long lunches, daybed lounging and sunset spritzes. The experience unfolds across three distinct levels. The Dining Room is a refined, sit-down restaurant built for leisurely progressions; the Terrace Deck lifts the tempo with share plates and cocktails; and the openair Sun Deck nails the beach-club brief with custom daybeds, a panoramic bar and uninterrupted skyline views. Designer Alex Zabotto-Bentley (AZB Creative) leans into 70s-tinged Mediterranean glamour — think sunflower yellows, burnt oranges, teak and green marble. [caption id="attachment_1042022" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jonny Valiant[/caption] In the kitchen, Executive Chef Pablo Tordesillas (Totti's Bondi; two-hatted Ortiga in Brisbane) teams up with Head Chef Nick Mathieson (Bistecca, Otto) on a coastal Italian menu with a seafood focus. The Dining Room runs as a set journey — begin with oscietra caviar over house potato crisps and cultured cream, then roll into snacks like a vinegar- and bottarga-dusted potato scallop with chives, plus deep-sea royal red prawns with finger lime and bisque mayo. Bigger moments include reginette with Moreton Bay bug, crustacean butter and chilli, and market fish with clams, saffron butter, fregola and spring veg. Tables can add a one-kilogram bistecca alla fiorentina as a supplement. Upstairs, the Terrace and Sun Deck are made for graze-and-gather afternoons. Sit back and soak up those views while enjoying Queensland spanner crab tartlets crowned with chervil and salmon roe, a Moreton Bay bug sando with crisp iceberg and cocktail sauce, and spaghettini tossed with spanner crab, tomato, chilli and garlic. Desserts keep the coastal mood: lemon and mascarpone sorbetto is served in a carved lemon, while fior di latte ice cream is finished with an indulgent spoon of Umai Heritage caviar. Venue Manager Mikey Hamilton (Bistecca, The Gidley, Banksii) steers service, bringing big-league polish to the yacht. [caption id="attachment_1042019" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jason Loucas[/caption] Drinks are led by Ed Loveday, who builds a harbour-ready list of crisp Mediterranean wines, lively rosés and seasonal cocktails. Expect aperitivo-leaning spritzes, martinis, margaritas, daiquiris and champagne numbers — plus a martini trolley in the Dining Room for bespoke, tableside ice-cold pours. Art threads through the space, too, with commissioned works by Daimon Downey, Jeremy Kay and Tiarna Herczeg adding sculptural colour and texture between decks. [caption id="attachment_1042020" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jonny Valiant[/caption] Top images: Jonny Valiant | Jason Loucas
Marco Pierre White is a star of kitchens and screens alike. He was the first British chef — and the youngest chef at the time — to be awarded three Michelin stars. He's popped up on everything from Hell's Kitchen to MasterChef, including in Australia. Back in 2019, he was one of Melbourne Good Food Month's huge headliners. He's also the culinary force behind cookbook White Heat, the 1990 tome that played up his "bad boy" image. He's been dubbed "the first celebrity chef" as well. And, he's trained fellow famed food figures such as Mario Batali, Heston Blumenthal, Gordon Ramsay and Curtis Stone. That's a brief run through White's resume, but you're best to hear the full details — and the ups and downs that've come with being White — from the chef himself. So, in May, the culinary whiz is touring Australia's east coast capitals with his first-ever live theatre show. White's Out of the Kitchen gigs will chat through his beginnings, his training and his stardom, plus the kind of success that led to his "enfant terrible" label. That means hearing about his arrival in London with just "£7.36, a box of books and a bag of clothes", and his tutelage under Albert and Michael Roux at renowned French fine-diner Le Gavroche. And, there's nabbing those three Michelin stars at the age of 33, of course. Out of the Kitchen will start its Aussie run at Brisbane's Convention and Entertainment Centre, then see White head to Sydney's State Theatre and Melbourne's Hamer Hall. 2023 has already taken Israeli chef Yotam Ottolenghi around the country on a speaking tour, and is bringing Mauro Colagreco and his French Riviera eatery Mirazur to the Sydney in March, plus British chef Simon Rogan and his restaurant L'Enclume to the Harbour City for a five-week residency this winter, in what's clearly a great year for getting tips from the world's culinary masters. MARCO PIERRE WHITE – OUT OF THE KITCHEN: Tuesday, May 23 — Great Hall, Brisbane Convention and Entertainment Centre Thursday, May 25 — State Theatre, Sydney Tuesday, May 30 — Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne Marco Pierre White's Out of the Kitchen tour hits Australia in May 2023. For more information, or to buy tickets, head to the tour website.
Hatted restaurant Kuro Bar and Dining unites familiar Japanese flavours and techniques with high-quality Australian produce and native ingredients to create an exciting array of dishes. Led by co-owners Alan Wong and executive chef Taka Teramoto, Kuro is located in a heritage-listed building on Kent Street in Sydney's CBD — its sister venue Kahii is mere steps away. The venue is split into three parts: the 40-seater dining room, the eight-seater bar and an intimate chef's table experience. Chef Teramoto previously worked at Michelin-starred Restaurant Pages, Paris and Florilège, Tokyo — he draws on this culinary experience and his Japanese heritage to create the venue's signature dishes. Patrons can complement their dishes with a drop from the venue's 200-plus-strong wine list courtesy of sommelier Wanaka Teramoto (116 Pages, Paris). The focus is on boutique, minimal-intervention Australian producers. There are also Japanese beers and an extensive range of premium Japanese spirits, sake and umeshu (Japanese plum wine) on offer. Designed by Potts Point's Henderson & Co, the space is impressive — particularly the lighting. Fifty-six American oak light 'portals' spread across the walls create an ever-changing ambience throughout the day and into the night. Other design elements include a copper-tiled bar, sandstone and brick walls, polished stone and marble tables and a massive, blossom-shaped capiz chandelier. Cracks in the existing concrete floors have been filled with gold — a nod to the Japanese pottery-fixing technique of kintsugi — and soft fabric screens create semi-private dining spaces throughout. Kuro's eight-person omakase experience, Teramoto by Kuro, curated by chef Teramoto, is currently on hiatus but you can sign up on the website to ensure you're first in and best dressed. Images: Supplied, Kitti Gould
Hunters Hill's beloved local has entered a new era. After more than a century serving the community, the Hunters Hill Hotel — which first opened as the Fig Tree Hotel in the 1880s before adopting its current moniker in 1940 — has unveiled a top-to-bottom transformation that introduces bright, airy new spaces behind the familiar exterior. The extensive restoration, led by Squillace Architects, preserves the hotel's original art deco bones while adding warmer, more textured interiors and contemporary extensions. On the ground floor, you'll find a light-filled bistro and beer garden serving elevated pub fare, from reworked classics like steaks, parmies and pizzas to new favourites straight from the parilla lava rock grill — think whole lemon sole and whole roast chook. A sprawling sports bar sits beside the dining areas, featuring an eight-metre LED screen and plenty of beers on tap for match days. [caption id="attachment_1042303" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Onecut Studios[/caption] Upstairs, a new cocktail lounge adds a touch of sophistication, while an expansive weatherproof indoor-outdoor terrace — complete with retractable roof — is built for everything from long lunches to relaxed sundowners with views over the treetops. Behind the redevelopment is the Gallagher family, which has owned and operated the hotel for the past decade and lived in Hunters Hill for much longer. As locals themselves, they've reimagined the pub with the community at the front of mind, blending its heritage with smart contemporary updates to create a space that feels new without losing its familiar warmth. [caption id="attachment_1042305" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Onecut Studios[/caption] Images: Steven Woodburn/Onecut Studios.
Sandstone in Sydney indicates either history or brand-new builds. Most, if not all of Sydney's heritage buildings are predominantly sandstone, but so are newer constructions like much of the recently-opened Sydney Metro line. In some cases, it can be indicative of both, or at least that's the case for Pitt Street's self-acclaimed 'dine bar' Ennui. This wine bar-restaurant hybrid (hence, dine bar) is housed in the unassuming sandstone building on the corner of Pitt and Hay Streets, across the intersection from Belmore Park. The digs hark back to 1864, but Ennui is the latest (and possibly greatest) in its long line of residents, headed up by three close mates and alumni of Love, Tilly Devine. Having opened in 2024 you'd be forgiven for being unfamiliar, but anyone with a love of fine French food and wine should absolutely amend this oversight. The food menu treads heavy and light in equal parts, ranging from dainty starters like Sydney rock oysters with lemon pepper beurre blanc or polenta with chermoula mayo to hefty house specials like the duck Ennui with bone sauce, beets and strawberry or wagyu MB5+ sirloin. You've got two spaces to enjoy your meal in, with the cosier downstairs space resembling an inner-city wine bar while the first floor feels more like a classic dining room. While French, Australian, Italian and German wine is the house specialty when it comes to the drinks, it's by no means your only option. There's a selection of beer and a whisky list penned by co-owner and enthusiast Peter Chan. On the cocktails front, a range of house specials and classics are on offer. Try the Ennui Old Fashioned with duck-fat washed bourbon, honey and five spice, or the Milk Punch with cognac, Amaretto, Biscoff, cacao and whey. If those sound too adventurous, we wouldn't blame you for opting for a simpler negroni or Toki Whisky highball.
When Andres Walters (The Lobo Plantation, Kittyhawk), partner Gabrielle Walters (Black by Ezard) and mate Daniel Noble (Ramblin' Rascal Tavern, Mojo Record Bar) decided to open a new bar, finding the perfect location turned out to be much easier said than done. But when eye-watering rents fortuitously forced the trio to start looking up, they stumbled upon an unassuming space within a run-down office building — and Old Mate's Place was born. A little tough to find, but well worth the effort, the two-level set-up makes for a charming hideaway, pulling inspiration from the diminutive drinking dens you'll find hidden throughout office blocks in Japan. Inside, the trio has paid homage to the Clarence Street building's "beautiful guts" and its heritage-listed facade. The bar's lower floor calls to mind an old library, complete with stately bookshelves, dapper furnishings and family heirlooms throughout. Foliage creeps in and around the bar like it's been there forever. And now, after opening in September 2018, the bar's secluded — and equally as green — rooftop space is ripe for sinking beers and carefully created cocktails. If you can get there early, nab a spot at the bar or one of the few low tables before the crowds come marching in. While their previous bars might have built reputations on showcasing specific spirits, Old Mate's Place sees Walters and Noble widen the focus, embracing the creative space that comes with celebrating all booze in equal measure. Expect a cocktail list that's broad and oft-changing, spreading plenty of love across a 300-strong back bar selection. To match, the kitchen's currently pumping out four variations of a Philly cheesesteak and a few meats and cheeses. Updated Tuesday, March 21, 2023. Appears in: The Best Bars in Sydney
In 2016, Brasserie L'Entrecôte opened in Pymble, bringing a slice of French decadence to the north shore. In the years since, there's been a bit of a French boom in Sydney with Swillhouse's Restaurant Hubert, Dan Pepperell's Bistrot 916 and brand-new editions like Whalebridge and Loulou joining the city's French offerings. While many of these spots are bringing a flashy Sydney flair to their take on French cuisine, Brasserie L'Entrecôte — and its new sibling venue Bouillon L'Entrecôte — celebrate tradition, serving up classic dishes done incredibly well. Bouillon L'Entrecôte opened in Circular Quay's dining precinct Quay Quarter Lanes alongside a slew of venues, including Besuto, Hinchcliff House and Londres 126. On entry, you're met with a ground level with a selection of tables looking out into Circular Quay. Head upstairs and the building opens up to an expansive dining room with a grand French fit-out. Luxurious detailing and large dining tables are complemented with art and photographs sprawled across the wall — headlined by a huge portrait of legendary French chef Paul Bocuse. When it comes to the food, the options are varied but not overwhelming. Kick things off with your choice of starters and a glass of kir royale from the 'How To Be a Good French' section of the drinks menu. Highlights from the hors d'oeuvre include the escargot drenched in a rich sauce, the ultra-cheesy twice-baked soufflé and the seared scallops served with foie gras mousse, onion jam and truffle oil. The house specialty is the 200-gram sirloin steak served with french fries, walnut green salad and the kitchen's famous secret sauce — owner Johan Giausseran, nor the chefs, will give up the secret to the sauce's recipe, no matter how hard you might prod. Those looking to elevate the night even further can look to share the 850-gram T-bone or the huge 1.6-kilogram wagyu tomahawk. There are also weekly specials available, ranging from beef bourguignon cooked overnight to free-range chicken stew and the catch of the day. If you have the courage to fit more in after your mains, the dessert menu is difficult to resist. The centrepiece is the thrice-baked caramelised upside-down apple tart, only six are baked each day, but other standouts include the rich vanilla ice cream and chocolate profiteroles and the vanilla créme bûlée. Appears in: The Best Restaurants in Sydney Where to Find the Best Steak in Sydney
Dom Dolla just keeps making history. Back in December 2023, the Australian DJ and producer notched up a hefty achievement, playing his biggest-ever hometown show in Melbourne at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl. Then, come 2024, his national tour became the largest ever by an Australian electronic artist, selling 170,000-plus tickets in four cities. What does 2025 hold, then? Oh, only the Grammy-nominee doing his first-ever Aussie stadium show and biggest headline gig ever. He's played Coachella, Lollapalooza, Wildlands, Spilt Milk and more — including soldout Madison Square Garden gigs with over 30,000 attendees, plus Ultra Miami and EDC Las Vegas. When Europe's summer hits, he's doing a ten-week residency at Hï Ibiza. Then, on Saturday, December 20, 2025, Dom Dolla is heading home in a massive way, headlining Sydney's Allianz Stadium. The three-time ARIA-winner (and 16-time ARIA-nominee) also has something else sizeable to add to his resume in 2025: with 'No Room for a Saint' featuring Nathan Nicholson, he's making his film soundtrack debut. The movie: the Brad Pitt (F1)-starring F1. Also this year, Dom Dolla has released two other tracks: 'Dreamin' featuring Daya and 'Forever' with Kid Cudi. On his 2024 Aussie tour, the venues weren't small, given that he played Melbourne's Flemington Racecourse, Sydney's Domain, Brisbane's Riverstage and Perth's Wellington Square. But making the leap to a headline stadium gig is no minor feat. Images: shevindphoto.
The wait has felt like forever, but season five of Stranger Things is almost here. One day after the show hits Netflix on Thursday, November 27, Luna Park Sydney will also host the return of Stranger Things: The Experience. Having made a hugely popular debut earlier this year, this trip into the Upside Down is back by popular demand. Get ready to visit 1986 — and also Hawkins, Indiana, of course — in what promises to be an interactive stint of Stranger Things-loving fun. Locations from the show are part of the setup, as is a supernatural mystery. And yes, you can expect to feel nostalgic, even if you don't have your own memories of the 80s, because you hadn't been born yet. However, Stranger Things: The Experience isn't just about visiting recreations of settings that you've seen while watching Eleven and the gang. The installation features its own storyline, where playing along means trying to save Hawkins from yet another threat. Jam-packed with 80s nostalgia, this highly engaging journey is primed for the show's biggest fans. Just step into the Hawkins Lab, filled with dazzling special effects and strange surprises, or swing through Mix-Tape — a neon space brimming with retro 80s fun. Here, you'll sip themed cocktails, capture pics in the photobooth and roam iconic locations from the show while encountering a mysterious cast of characters.
The Cricketers Arms, widely known to its hordes of devotees as the Crix, is the kind of local that will make you want to move into the area. It's a beautiful old pub, boasting wooden floors and wall tiles, a laid back atmosphere, and plenty of character behind the bar. The walls are decorated with random paraphernalia while graffiti runs amok in the toilets. The local theme stems into the drinks too, with a sturdy wine list and an excellent selection of local beers on tap. Be warned, this place is almost always extremely busy — and not only on nights that there's a game up the road. Friday and Saturday nights are particularly insane. We think, however, that the wild, varied crowd is largely responsible for the extremely high fun levels and is a big part of making it one of our favourite Sydney pubs. The music is almost as eclectic as the patrons, with a terrific jazz quartet hitting the floorboards of the main bar on Wednesday nights and regular DJ series SHOOP featuring a playlist dedicated exclusively to "hot R'n'B babe jams". A reliable local, the Crix works both summer and winter well. The outside courtyard, brimming with plants and wooden tables, is good reason to stake out a spot in the warmer months. In winter, a fireplace is always lit, surrounded by lounges and more tables. Upstairs has the excellent casual bistro Chez Crix with a French-inspired menu, fantastic natural wine list and a dog-friendly ethos. If you're yet to be a Cricketers Arms acolyte, you've probably never been. Get there early, bring a good attitude for the always entertaining bar staff, and secure your spot inside or out. Images: Reuben Gibbes Appears in: The Best Pubs in Sydney
Having cemented its status as one of Melbourne's most celebrated coffee roasters and cafes, Industry Beans made a splash in Sydney's caffeine scene, opening its first interstate location in the CBD in 2019. It's made its home on York Street, complete with a heritage façade, state-of-the-art equipment and its trademark Industry Beans offering of creatively charged food and next-level specialty coffee. The Sydney venue features the same customised La Marzocco Modbar that put Industry Beans' Little Collins Street store on the map, allowing customers to be front and centre of the coffee-making experience. You can watch the magic unfold as the baristas brew its signature Fitzroy Street blend and whip up treats like the specialty bubble coffee — featuring coffee-soaked tapioca pearls, cold brew and normal or vegan condensed milk. As for the food, you can expect a seasonal lineup of cleverly executed dishes that are far from boring. The York Street cafe's southern counterpart has won many a fan for dishes like its coffee-rubbed wagyu burger, its chilli barramundi folded eggs paired with coffee togarashi and avocado smash starring beetroot dust and green tea salt — all of which have made their way onto the revamped menu. That's alongside a few new additions that specifically cater to the work lunch crowd, like the buckwheat and broccolini bowl that can be eaten in or taken away. Expect a finely honed customer experience, too, with a dedicated grab-and-go area and an Industry Beans app, which allows you to skip the queues and order your office coffees ahead of time.
Hospitality hubs are all the rage in Sydney right now — throw a stone in any direction and you're likely to hit one of these drinking and dining one-stop-shops. However, while they may be plentiful, few of this new wave of mega venues can hold a candle to the polish and vision of The Bristol — the five-level nightlife hotspot that has taken over what was formerly The Bristol Arms Hotel on Sussex Street. The Oscars Group has sparred no expense renovating the interiors of the 126-year-old building, creating six distinct spaces. These include a Greek restaurant helmed by celebrated chef Peter Conistis (ex-Alpha), a pub-esque casual bar, a state-of-the-art sports bar, a nightclub (complete with 200 disco balls), an opulent cocktail lounge and The Rooftop, a Mediterranean-coded bar with three outdoor terraces, marble-clad DJ podium and a street eats-style bar menu also created by Conistis. Whether you're wistfully reminiscing about this year's jaunt to the northern hemisphere or you've been enviously scrolling through your globe-trotting friends' Insta-feeds, a trip to The Rooftop delivers the Euro-summer vibes you've been craving. The pretty pastel decor, featuring a sunny pallete of creams, corals, blushing pinks and accents of chartreuse, wouldn't look out of place on the Amalfi Coast or perched on the shores of Saint Tropez. While the interiors set the tone, it's the three outdoor terraces that steal the show. Flanking the main bar is a slender balcony offering leafy views towards Darling Harbour and a smaller al fresco area for smokers. Leading off The Rooftop's rear is a more expansive terrace, decked out with built-in seating, wicker sculptures and a striped awning offering ample shade for those blistering Sydney summer days. While the view is urban, the vibe leans beach, with macrame umbrellas and lush planters further selling a seaside aesthetic. Behind the bar there are more than 20 wines available by the glass as well as a small but considered menu of refreshing signature and classic cocktails that make for the ideal afterwork sundowners or hot-weather thirst-quenchers. For those who favour a sip that isn't too serious, the perky and playful Cherry Bomb is a fruity riff on a martini starring gin and cherry liqueur, topped with a vegan-friendly aquafaba sour cherry foam. Alternatively, you can turn up the heat with a Tommy's Tropicana, a margarita variant mingling jalapeño-infused tequila, guava, pineapple and lime. A mix of easy-to-like skewers and souvlaki-style wraps make up a bar menu that supplies tasty sidekick snacks for the pekish and heartier informal feeds for those with a bigger appetite. The excellent service team nimbly navigate the bar with both cocktail-laden trays and food orders, ensuring that even when there's a packed house, guests can enjoy the convenience of having their order brought directly to them. Images: Steven Woodburn
Of Sydney's inner-city burrows, Glebe seems to possess that true bohemian spirit. The super chill suburb, which borders Sydney University and features well-integrated public housing, welcomes folk from all walks of life. The people are openminded and creative. The community supports local business while championing thrift shopping and other sustainable practices. Plus, the suburb itself is gorgeous, leafy and comes complete with water views. Sounds pretty great, right? It is. In fact, it's certainly worthy of a visit. To ensure you get a glimpse of the real Glebe, we first partnered with City of Sydney to chat with Julian Cincotta of Thievery — one of the must-hit restaurants in the area — then with Jacob Collier from creative hub The Works to discover both of their local favourites. And now, to add onto their lists, we've pulled together all the essentials which you simply must see in the suburb. If you're ready for a change of pace, want to slow down and appreciate your surrounds, get yourself to Glebe.
Another stalwart pub in The Rocks has been given a new lease on life. The Orient Hotel has recently reopened after a three-month renovation, which has taken the venue back to its heritage roots. The public bar and sandstone courtyard have both been restored and there's a renewed focus on live music, with bands on seven days a week. The corner pub's reopening is a welcome addition to The Rocks' nightlife, with the all-day offering available from morning until late daily allowing for some legit late-night gigs. The heritage building was built in 1844 and boasts a multifaceted history as a Chinese laundry, a butchery and, most notably, a shipping company called Orient Line who docked its boats in Sydney Cove, just in front of the hotel. It's now owned by Ryans Hotels, the group that also runs CBD venues the Paragon Hotel, the Ship Inn and Taylor's Rooftop. Expanding on the hotel's refurbished offering is a new cocktail terrace Mrs Jones, which is named after Jane Jones, the Orient's 1897 licensee who was a well-known publican in the area. It officially launches this Thursday, May 17. The space has its own concealed entrance on Kendall Lane and the terrace lounge overlooks the Orient's interior courtyard and the laneways below. Designer Kate Formosa has drawn on the hotel's maritime roots with a replica Orient Line boat model, blue-and-white woven chairs and timber floorboards, all while giving the terrace a greenhouse feel with a lush garden fit-out and sliding glass panel walls. Ex-Merivale drinks-maker Tommy Donnison is heading up the bar and has curated a sizeable cocktail menu with heaps of classics, plus signatures including the Fizzy Jones (gin, green apple liqueur, Baileys and lime juice soda) and the Purple Haze (vodka, blackcurrant and cacao liqueurs, vanilla syrup, blueberries and egg white). For eats, chef Brad Copeland (ex-Est., MG Garage, Bistrode) has created a menu for both venues that aims to showcase Australian produce and focuses on share plates — ideal for nibbling on with cocktail in hand. Think slow-cooked lamb croquettes with truffle honey, panko-crumbed prawns with garlic mayo and peking duck spring rolls, along with your requisite charcuterie platters. For larger dishes, sous vide Queensland kangaroo rump and crispy pork belly accompany pub classic schnittys, parmas and burgers.
Head into the huge Crown Tower in Barangaroo, bypass the lavish dining options a'Mare and Nobu, and head up the elevator to discover one of Sydney's most impressive spa experiences. Whether you're looking for a facial, nail service, wellness service or a massage, you'll find it here with a heavy dose of luxury. What really elevates the Crown Spa experience is the attention to detail and the wellness journey each guest is taken on. If you're after a massage, you'll be treated to access to the sauna, 360-degree shower and spa bath. This also means you can squeeze a massage into a workday and freshen up afterwards. Your boss will be none the wiser. For a next-level trip to the spa, book yourself in for a package. Crown Spa's Celebration package includes a one-hour relaxation massage and a La Prairie Skin Caviar Essential Facial; while the full three-hour Restoration journey includes body exfoliation, marma massage and an age-defying facial. Top image: George Apostolidis Appears in: The Best Day Spas in Sydney
In a world of convenient but unremarkable chain bottleshops, community-centric retailers like P&V Merchants are a welcome change of pace. The Paddington outpost of this small business opened in 2017, bringing a new face to Oxford Street that is one part bottleshop and one part community bar. Unlike your average bottleshop, P&V focuses on unique and less-recognised brews and bottles from producers around Australia and the world. From unusual wines to hoppy craft beers and spiced spirits, there are no boring drinks on these shelves. There's also a fair share of tinned, jarred, pickled and preserved food to be purchased, plus bits and bobs to be used and worn. Another unique offering of P&V is that you can enjoy your purchase in-store, simply take your purchase to the back courtyard and enjoy, or skip the decision-making first and enjoy some pre-determined by-the-glass options. There are some bar snacks to be enjoyed in the courtyard, but most of the food can be found upstairs in the independently-run Porcine bistro. Keep an eye on the P&V channels, as when Porcine isn't using the space, you can expect tastings, masterclasses and more. Images: Byron Martin for PADDO(Collective)
Although our arteries may be crying foul, we in Sydney have become well and truly besotted with American food. From the nostalgia of 1950s milkbars to the soul-steeling heartiness of Southern cuisine, there's a certain homey, convivial charm we can't resist. And though we may be over establishments that borrow a little too directly from their US counterparts, there are others that continue to surprise and impress us. The best places, the ones on this list, have risen above imitation and novelty, and they delve deeper into American food than mere burgers. Enjoy one tonight and celebrate America's Fourth of July. Just remember: cookies (deep-fried and dolloped with spicy mayo) are a sometimes food. 1. Hartsyard There is no denying Hartsyard's heritage; it is palpably American in taste, substance and style. As soon as you push open the glass door, the smell of hickory smoked pork greets you with open arms. You'd be forgiven for thinking you had mistakenly stumbled across a classic American backyard cook-out, but that's what’s beautiful about this Newtown newcomer. You never know what to expect. Start with the poutine ($23) for a no-holds-barred introduction to American cuisine that borrows generously from the Bible Belt, French Canada and the friction between urban and rural dining. 2. Soda Factory What you're looking for is a kitschy neon sign reading 'Bobby’s Boss Dogs'. Bobby’s draws the comparison to New York's Crif Dogs, the entrance to clandestine East Village cocktail lounge PDT. Pull on the handle of the Coke Machine and you're inside The Soda Factory — a dimly lit industrial expanse lined with inviting booths and comfy mid-century sofas. For just $9, the Johnny Drama (beef sausage topped with bacon, sour cream, avocado and tomato salsa) straddles the line between gourmet and good old-fashioned grub. 3. Marly Kitchen Chicken and waffles are a classic southern American breakfast combination that makes no sense to us Australians. Deep-fried chicken? Served with waffles? Drizzled in gravy? It just doesn't compute. And it's great that the Marly Kitchen in the hotel's new Garden Bar is doing it, because the risk, complexity and creativity is a foil to the many safe options around town where American equals burger. Choose from crispy buttermilk deep-fried chicken, smoked pulled pork, cheesy BBQ sirloin or Mexican lentil toppings ($8) for the waffles, or try something from the constantly changing special board, featuring more sophisticated options such as crispy skin roasted kingfish with tender confit kipfler potatoes and a finger-licking bushpepper aioli ($26). 4. Eathouse Diner One of the originals, and still one of the best. The red vinyl stools around a curved bar and crimson walls with a chalkboard menu on the wall conjure 1950s Americana, but there's no schtick here. The menu features Southern classics that aren't too heavy, such as fried okra in corn maize batter with spicy chipotle and tomato sauce and the delicious spicy Creole gumbo, as well as dishes with a more English or Australian heritage. The fun atmosphere and seriously good food means that, years in, this place is still full most nights of the week. 5. Miss Peaches Soul Food Kitchen Step off Missenden Road in Newtown and be transported to a pseudo-Louisiana where Miss Peaches and her Soul Food Kitchen are waiting. The spacious brick bar has old-school Southern charm with plenty of comfy booths, a balcony overlooking the hustle and bustle of King Street below, plus a blues-infused vinyl collection to get any feet dancing. The menu is the antithesis of all diets and not for the faint of heart. Think cornbread sliders filled with deep-fried mac and cheese, chicken or beef short rib (3 for $18), crispy tater tots with maple bacon ketchup ($8) or flaky crawfish pies ($12). The blackened fish ($15) is spiced up nice and jerky and a real standout of the menu. 6. Santa Barbara With its Californian atmosphere (at the Coke sign junction of King's Cross, it even feels like a highway) and lengthy menu of American/Asian/Tex-Mex/Pacific fusion, Santa Barbara is a bit of a diversion from the American norm. From the BBQ, the Coke Can Chicken ($18) is enough to feed a small army, and goes well with some jerk prawn and papaya salad ($14). 7. The Dip Founder Andrew Levins' love of food apparently began on a family holiday to Memphis. He's road tested and experimented with his recipes at legendary barbeques for family and friends, and now both family and friends are involved on the floor. There couldn't be a better fit for the stucco booths and jukebox tunes of the Goodgod's front room. The menu is heavily themed and, thankfully, priced to reflect the diner vibe. You want to get the Lev's Dawg, a kosher hotdog topped with chipotle mayo, fresh tomato salsa, grilled yellow peppers and American mustard and definitely, definitely follow up with an ice-cream sandwich. Now closed 8. Hinky Dinks Step off Darlinghurst Road and into the 1950s. The boy's hair is quaffed, the floor is black-and-white chequered, and creamy, frozen drinks come in tall, frosted sundae glasses. Except it's like an American adult milk bar because here, those drinks have (a lot of) bourbon in them. It is indeed a very specific theme here. Every detail has been considered, from the uniforms and cherry-red bar stools to the original 1950s Crosley fridge that took four people to move. But the best part about Hinky Dinks, and the part that prevents it from falling into the Disney theme category, is the staff. They are passionate bartenders and in such a small space they really make it a warm and fun experience. 9. The Bourbon Louisiana Creole food is a mishmash of different cultures, like the population of New Orleans. French, Spanish, African, Italian and Portuguese are thrown into the mix, with jambalaya the signature dish. From the oyster bar, the theme continues with grilled jumbo shrimp ($24) in creole butter and spiced salt. A gumbo with a thick, spicy duck broth and smoked sausage ($18) and clam and corn chowder ($22) pop out from the soup menu. It's interesting, amid the glittery surroundings, to eat this food that has come from simple origins. But then New Orleans does have a thriving drinking scene amongst strip joints and red light shops, so perhaps this is the ideal location. 10. Jazz City Milk Bar To end with? Dessert, of course. Try the banana cream pie, one of our favourite pies in Sydney, combining a foolproof balance between generous servings of banana, sweet caramel and cream. Part of the philosophy of the milk bar is for people to visit with their friends to enjoy American sweet delicacies like pies, cookies, cotton candy and ice cream sandwiches. However, they've also included dinner specialities like gourmet burgers and hot dogs as well as more adventurous dishes like a New Orleans BBQ Shrimp ($28) and A&W Root Beer Braised Chuck Steak ($24). Now closed. By the Concrete Playground team.
Recent visitors to Glebe's waterfront will have noticed a behemoth emerging from Blackwattle Bay. The superstructure of the new Sydney Fish Market is fast approaching completion, with the innovative undulating timber beams for the wave-like roof now taking shape. While the opening of the new dining hotspot is still several months away (the original opening date of late 2024 has been pushed back to early next year), newly released renders have revealed a glimpse of how this architectural marvel will look when it's finally finished. A new foreshore boardwalk connecting with Bridge Road will offer a shady stroll to visitors as they make their way towards to new Fish Market complex, while a new urban park will create a new harbourside green space for locals and visitors to enjoy. Inside the market, there will be multiple levels of restaurants, retail outlets and produce stores, while overhead, the distinctive scoop of the timbre lattice roof lets in plenty of natural light. When it opens, an estimated six million visitors will flock to Glebe annually to visit the new markets, and with good reason if the latest announcement is anything to go by. Working with Sydney Fish Market, Placemaking NSW — the future operator of the new market site — has released news of the food and beverage offering visitors can expect to find alongside the popular local seafood traders. The biggest get for the Fish Market is a new Southeast Asian diner by celebrity chef Luke Nguyen, which will be operated by Dolton Hospitality Group. A title for the new venue or details of its menu are yet to be announced, but with such a well-known name at the helm, it's set to be a major drawcard. A new outlet from the award-winning and multi-hatted Malaysian hawker restaurant Ho Jiak is another big win for the Fish Market. Diners can expect the tasty street food favourites that have made the chain such a popular Harbour City mainstay. Po Boys, operated by Trippas White Group has been inspired by the cuisine of the Southern USA and the laidback vibes of the East Coast of Australia. The menu will star lobster, burgers, craft beers and of course, the house speciality, po boys, the infamous hot sandwiches from Louisiana. Speaking of sandwiches, Banh Mi & Phin, the debut venue by seasoned hospo professionals Hailey Nghiem and Charlie Dinh, will offer Vietnamese street food with a focus on fresh salads, rice paper rolls and of course, traditional filled baguettes. Asian cuisine will be well represented at the Fish Market. Nanjing Dumplings will feature both traditional and specialty dumplings. It will also be one of the only places in Sydney where diners can sample Nanjing-style xiao long bao — the doughier, slightly sweeter cousin of Shanghai's famous soup dumplings. Meanwhile, the Japanese Collective will serve classic izakaya fare including ramen, donburi and seafood BBQ. It will also boast a dedicated sake bar. There will be plenty to quench the thirst of visitors, including a new outlet for Glebe Point Road favourite Dirty Red, which will serve an extensive bar and cocktail menu and a variety of shared plates; Taiwanese boba bar Gotcha Fresh Tea, which farms its own tea at Taiwan's Mount Ali, and brews each beverage to order; and Aussie company Top Juice, which uses exclusively homegrown produce in its juices and smoothies. The talented baristas of Stitch Coffee will also be on hand to deliver that all-important caffeine fix to any early-morning fish-seekers shopping for the freshest catch of the day. Award-winning family-run artisan gelato company Cow & The Moon rounds out the hospitality offering at the new Sydney Fish Market, so expect to be strolling the new Blackwattle boardwalk with a cone in hand early next year. Images: NSW Government
You can see Oprah, and you can see Oprah, and you can see Oprah: Oprah Winfrey has announced a December 2025 trip Down Under, bringing in-conversation events to five cities across Australia and New Zealand. If you're in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Auckland, you'll be able to see the famed talk-show host get chatting — in intimate sessions rather than on TV, where The Oprah Winfrey Show ran for 25 years. This is Winfrey's first jaunt this way in a decade — and that tour sold out, so expect this one to be popular as well. Authenticity and resilience will be among the topics of conversation, in what's designed to be a series of inspirational sessions. "One of the things I have always enjoyed is sitting down for real, honest, enlightening conversations, and this experience is all about that," said Winfrey, announcing the tour. "The energy, warmth and spirit I feel in Australia and New Zealand have stayed with me, and returning will be an opportunity to reconnect, reflect, and be reinspired — together. I look forward to sharing stories, ideas, and meaningful connection about what's possible in our lives moving forward." Added Paul Dainty of tour promoter DAINTY: "Oprah Winfrey is a cultural icon whose influence spans generations. Her ability to engage, uplift and empower audiences is unparalleled. We're honoured to bring this extraordinary event to Australia and New Zealand — it's not just a conversation, it's a moment that will resonate with people from all walks of life." The media figure, actor, author, producer and philanthropist's visit Down Under will kick off at the ICC Sydney Theatre, then head to Adelaide Entertainment Centre, Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre and Spark Arena. Oprah in Conversation Australia and New Zealand 2025 Dates Thursday, December 4 — ICC Sydney Theatre, Sydney Saturday, December 6 — Adelaide Entertainment Centre, Adelaide Monday, December 8 — Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Brisbane Thursday, December 11 — Plenary, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, Melbourne Sunday, December 14 — Spark Arena, Auckland Oprah Winfrey in Conversation is touring Australia and New Zealand in December 2025, with ticket presales from 10am on Wednesday, August 6 in New Zealand and from 10am on Friday, August 8 in Australia — and general ticket sales from Friday, August 8 in NZ and Tuesday, August 12 in Australia. Head to the tour website for more details. Top image: Disney/Eric McCandless.
It boasts a sole stage across its two nights and three days. Tickets are so coveted that you need to enter a ballot to nab entry. It takes place in regional Victoria, starting off summer with one of the firm festival highlights of each and every year. Fans lock in their date with the event before even knowing who is on the bill. We're talking about Meredith Music Festival, of course, which launched its ticket ballot for 2024 back in July ahead of its always-anticipated December return. Whether you've already put your name in the running to attend across Friday, December 6–Sunday, December 8, or you're keen to try now that the second round is open, the fest has now just unveiled its lineup for this year. [caption id="attachment_969942" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Alasdair McLellan[/caption] Jamie xx, Waxahatchee and Genesis Owusu lead the list of acts that'll be helping punters spend a weekend at the Meredith Supernatural Amphitheatre. For more than three decades now, this event has become a tradition, with 2024's fest marking Meredith's 32nd welcoming music lovers to The Sup. From there, the roster of talent for 2024 includes Mk.gee, ZAPP, Angie McMahon, The Dare and Glass Beams, too — and Fat White Family, Mannequin Pussy, Princess Superstar, BARKAA, Frenzee and Leo Sayer as well. [caption id="attachment_969943" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Molly Matalon[/caption] Variety is always a highlight, with Olof Dreijer, Good Morning, MIKE, Party Dozen and Mainline Magic Orchestra also on the lineup, alongside DJ PGZ, Essendon Airport, Ayebatonye, YARA, Precious Bloom, The Central Australian Aboriginal Women's Choir, In2stellar, Keanu Nelson, Billiam & The Split Bills and the City of Ballarat Municipal Brass Band. To obtain a pass to the beloved three-day BYO camping festival, you've now got until 10.32pm AEST on Tuesday, August 20 to enter the ballot. Meredith Music Festival 2024 Lineup: Jamie xx Waxahatchee Genesis Owusu Mk.gee ZAPP Angie McMahon The Dare Glass Beams Fat White Family Mannequin Pussy Princess Superstar BARKAA Frenzee Leo Sayer Olof Dreijer Good Morning MIKE Party Dozen Mainline Magic Orchestra DJ PGZ Essendon Airport Ayebatonye YARA Precious Bloom The Central Australian Aboriginal Women's Choir In2stellar Keanu Nelson Billiam & The Split Bills City of Ballarat Municipal Brass Band [caption id="attachment_969945" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Bradley Calder[/caption] Meredith Music Festival returns to Meredith from Friday, December 6–Sunday, December 8, 2024. To put your name in the ballot to get your hands on tickets, head to the festival's website before 10.32pm AEST on Tuesday, August 20. Meredith images: Chip Mooney, Ben Fletcher, Chelsea King and Steve Benn.
One of Melbourne's most celebrated restaurants has arrived in Sydney. Victor Liong's two-hatted Lee Ho Fook is now open at The Porter House Hotel on Castelreagh Street, marking the first Sydney dining room for the chef who helped redefine modern Chinese cuisine in Australia. Since opening in Melbourne in 2013, Lee Ho Fook has become known for Liong's distinctive blend of classical European technique and the depth, diversity and soul of Chinese cooking. The Sydney edition carries that same spirit in a handsome setting of exposed brick, dark-stained hardwood floors and ambient neon that nods to its Melbourne roots. [caption id="attachment_1037786" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nikki To[/caption] The menu reads like a love letter to Chinese regionality, interpreted with Liong's signature restraint. Expect starters like prawn toast topped with Tasmanian sea urchin and a standout crispy eggplant with spiced red vinegar, alongside larger plates such as kung pao Skull Island prawns and Yunnan-style murray cod with chilli cumin spice, garlic and chilli oil. A grill selection turns out proteins cooked over charcoal and served with bibb lettuce, seaweed, Dongbei short-grain rice and house condiments. It's all underpinned by seasonal Australian produce and executed by Head Chef Brad Guest, whose CV includes stints with Martin Benn, Neil Perry and Clare Smyth. The drinks program mirrors the kitchen's mix of precision and playfulness. Sommelier Louella Mathews curates an expansive wine list spanning Australian and European varietals from both emerging and established growers, while the cocktail list leans inventive, from a chilli crisp-spiked margarita to the delightful Sydney Vesper, a mix of Archie Rose vodka and gin, lemon and aniseed myrtles and Hunter Valley semillon. [caption id="attachment_1037785" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Parker Blain[/caption] Two thoughtful pairing options are also available: a global wine journey with drops from the Yarra Valley to Burgundy, and a tea pairing by Arthur Tong of TeaCraft, spotlighting handcrafted brews like blood orange-infused jasmine made in-house, milky oolong from Taiwan and Japanese genmaicha, all designed to complement the menu's layered flavours. The opening also marks a homecoming for Liong, who grew up in Sydney before making the move south — he now plans to divide his time between both cities. It's something of a family affair, too, with Liong's sister Nance Liong (ex-Momofuku Seiobo, Fred's, King Clarence) overseeing day-to-day operations as restaurant manager, bringing warmth and polish to match the food. [caption id="attachment_1037783" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Buffet Digital[/caption] Top images: Nikki To.
The team behind Avalon's locally loved Bar Elvina has revamped its sandwich-slinging joint Sandy's, opening a breezy wine bar in its place. Taking up residence along Barrenjoey Road, Randy's Wine dons a coastal-inspired fit-out with splashes of colour throughout. From the pink hues of its Turkish marble bench tops, its custom red cedar windows and adorning leafy greens to the dim lighting and the neon-lit 'Randys' sign, the inviting space has a stylish and down-to-earth neighbourhood bar personality. Previously home to the crew's dedicated sanga spot, this intimate 20-seat outpost offers a select range of enticing bar snacks to pair alongside its premium selections of seasonally picked wines. The third brainchild of self-titled 'cork dorks' Andy Emerson and Nick Musgrave boasts a huge range of vino from across the globe, starring the likes of juicy reds, crisp whites and skin-contact sips. And for the cocktail lovers, Randy's offers a selection of seven cocktails, including an oyster shell martini and a zero-alcohol special. As for bites, you can get shucking with Sydney rock oysters, indulge in the buttery fried baguette paired or sink your teeth into fresh sashimi to start. Dive into the offering of seafood-forward plates, with Clarence River octopus and fried calamari with tarragon mayo leading the dishes. Or, for those opting to stay ashore, try the chicken liver parfait or the burrata with peach vinegar. Randy's also maintains some throwbacks to its previous era with a few sizeable sangas. There's a toasted sesame milk bun loaded with yamba king prawn and its very own take on a Zinger Burger — both of which can be converted into a happy meal with the addition of fries and beer or wine. And to sweeten the deal, there's also a smoky basque cheesecake available for dessert, paired with a citrus syrup. Looking to experience the joint as a whole? Opt for Randy's' 'let us feed you' menu, which showcases the bar's best for $50 per person.
In his three decades so far behind the camera, every film that Wes Anderson has made, features and shorts alike, has boasted one of two people behind their ideas. Number one: himself, with the writer/director sometimes teaming up with Owen Wilson (Haunted Mansion), Noah Baumbach (White Noise), Jason Schwartzman (Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse) and/or Roman Coppola (Mozart in the Jungle) to pen his screenplays. Number two: Roald Dahl, the author responsible for a bookshelf full of childhood classics that've engaged and entertained generations. With the latter, first came Anderson's magnificent stop-motion Fantastic Mr Fox adaptation, which is lively, smart and funny as well as gloriously animated. Now arrives four new Netflix shorts based on various parts of Dahl's lengthy bibliography. Wondering how Anderson would fare with The Witches, Matilda or Charlie and the Chocolate Factory — each of which have reached screens multiple times, including a recent The Witches remake, the film version of Matilda The Musical and upcoming origin story Wonka — remains confined to the world's imaginations at the moment. Instead, the symmetry-loving filmmaker and Dahl still prove a dream match with The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, The Swan, The Rat Catcher and Poison. Dropping daily since Wednesday, September 27, the entire group is now available to stream. Watch all four at once and you've got a new Anderson-directed, Dahl-inspired feature-length anthology, plus pure, quintessential, gorgeous and thoughtful Anderson gold. Visually, the Rushmore, Moonrise Kingdom and Isle of Dogs filmmaker busts out his jewel and pastel palette, elaborate dollhouse visuals, moving sets, centred framing and distinctive dialogue rhythms in his latest works, each trademark stylistic touch a reliably dazzling treat in his hands. Talent-wise, he enlists a core sextet of well-known stars — Benedict Cumberbatch (Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness), Dev Patel (The Green Knight), Ben Kingsley (Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings), Ralph Fiennes (The Menu), Richard Ayoade (The Souvenir: Part II) and Rupert Friend (High Desert) — who deliver pitch-perfect Anderson-esque performances cycling through a range of roles while uttering deadpan to-camera dialogue. Thematically, Anderson starts the shorts series with belief and hope, then keeps skewing darker. His fixation with meticulously delightful sights has always been paired with bleaker notions, as seen from Bottle Rocket onwards; here, he swings between humanity at its best and its worst. Also present: more stories within stories within stories (within stories), as Anderson has long loved stacking and unpacking, frequently with writers taking centre stage. Fresh from stepping into a play as a live production in a TV show in Asteroid City and also flicking through a magazine's articles in The French Dispatch, the filmmaker now gets an author sharing his scribblings. Dahl isn't just the origin of the four stories adapted. Fiennes, who reunites with the writer/director after turning in one of the finest-ever performances in his films in The Grand Budapest Hotel, plays Dahl in one of his current parts for Anderson. That move enthusiastically makes the helmer's fondness for layers known structurally, standing out as much as the faux sets that he deploys visually — and as Dahl pops up to narrate and explain from his Buckinghamshire writing hut, it's also a choice with meaning. The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar begins the set with its longest and lightest entry, the source of some of Anderson's best and most purposeful visual playfulness yet, and a 39-minute flick that shares an account of personal and spiritual growth. So, as the author's 1977 tale comes to the screen, the movie's version of Dahl chats. Henry Sugar (Cumberbatch) does as well. Dr Chatterjee (Patel) and his patient Imdad Khan (Kingsley) also have a natter. Their stories reveal that Khan has learned to see without his eyes, Chatterjee couldn't be more fascinated about this medical marvel and, after learning about it accidentally, Sugar is desperate and determined to learn the trick for himself. Initially, the eponymous figure is solely in it to help his gambling and get even richer than he already is; however, there's only soullessness and emptiness on that path, but tenderness with another choice. The next in the batch, the 17-minute The Swan, pushes Friend to the fore. It also sharply changes Anderson's tone. In this short, bullies terrorise a classmate and wildlife in tandem, in a musing on cruelty that's still stunning to look at. With The Rat Catcher, which also clocks in at 17 minutes, the short's namesake (Fiennes) is enlisted by a village (represented by Ayoade and Friend) to live up to his name, a feat he's certain that he only achieve by being as rat-like as possible. Then, in the similarly 17-minute Poison, Cumberbatch, Patel and Kingsley work through almost the opposite of The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, with an Englishman in British-occupied India (Cumberbatch) given kindness by a colleague (Patel) and local doctor (Kingsley) in a life-and-death situation, but hardly repaying it. The cast that brings The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, The Swan, The Rat Catcher and Poison to life is as divine on-screen as it sounds on paper, especially Cumberbatch and Patel in The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, plus Patel and Kingsley in Poison. Anderson's way with aesthetics may hog the limelight whenever his name comes up — that, and the wealth of talent that he amasses in each of his films — but his ability with actors is one of his greatest skills. There isn't merely a knack to performing in the filmmaker's work; he gets his stars epitomising his specific style while showcasing their own flair, too. Watching The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, no one would ever want Anderson's latest ensemble to leave his sight, in fact, or to stop telling stories for him. Only one quibble springs from this four-short project: the decision to release each chapter separately, rather than packaging them together as an anthology feature. Of course, streaming makes that choice moot now that The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, The Swan, The Rat Catcher and Poison are all freely available in Netflix's catalogue. There's a cumulative power to this set of films. Anderson sees the ups and downs of human nature as he works through Dahl's four stories. As Fiennes' Dahl talks in and around their narratives, Anderson also spies it in an author who is both beloved for his creations and decried for his discriminatory opinions. It's there in the explanatory text on-screen noting what inspired The Swan, The Rat Catcher and Poison as well. Spectacular to look at, exceptionally performed, and packing an emotional and thematic punch, these shorts are vintage Anderson through and through. Check out the trailer for The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar below: The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, The Swan, The Rat Catcher and Poison are all available to stream via Netflix. Images: courtesy of Netflix.
While al fresco watering holes might be a dime a dozen in the Sydney CBD, Cabana Bar is an impressive entrant into the mix. The expansive bar and restaurant, located in 25 Martin Place (the erstwhile MLC Centre), is bringing big resort energy to the city thanks to its openair terrace that stretches over 100 metres and is framed with festoon lighting and greenery. Ocean blue banquettes, wicker furniture and white-washed walls complete the look. The cocktail menu leans in to the resort energy — the signature piña colada is a standout here, while there are five margarita varieties and two 600ml fishbowls to choose from as well. The wine list is heavy on Australian makers with most also available by the glass. The food is no afterthought here. The menu, designed by executive chef Brad Sloane, reads like an intersection of resort-style plates and classic pub fare. Highlights include tequila-cured salmon and blue corn tostadas with avocado crema, prawn roll in a toasted milk roll with garlic butter and spicy marie rose and zucchini blossom spaghetti. There's also a late-night menu available from Thursday to Saturday, making this a no-brainer for a post-show bite if you're coming from the nearby Theatre Royal. Cabana Bar also has five spaces available to book for private functions, with both indoor and outdoor spaces available that can cater for groups of up to 80 people. Top image: Wasa Media
The owners of Celsius Coffee Co. could have easily rested on their pylon laurels, given that they sit atop a ferry terminal just opposite Sydney Harbour, but the food here is as Instagrammable as the rustic wood-and-window structure it's served in. The cafe is doing inventive things with breakfast's biggest love — eggs — with twists across the menu like chilli-buttered eggs, house-made balsamic glazed eggs, or eggs served with a Japanese yuzu hollandaise.
Feeling a little hot? Usually, there's two solutions for that: get somewhere super cool, as in the temperature, and consume something refreshingly frosty. Combine the two, and you've got a tried-and-tested summer coping mechanism. Throw in some ice, however, and you'll really be chilled. At the Icebar Experience, you won't just find cubes of frozen water in your beverages, but sheets of it all around you. Sculptures too. You'll also drink out of ice glasses, which are certain to keep your tipples icy. We're betting vodka will feature heavily. Popping up in Elizabeth in Surry Hills, Icebar will blow into Sydney for two days only, across January 27 and 28. Tickets cost $65, which gets you 45 minutes inside the frozen hangout, a cocktail on arrival, and all the cold wine and beer you'd like. And, of course, a reprieve from what's likely to be some hefty late January heat.
After decades of revolving buffet and dining experiences that catered more to tourists than Sydneysiders, Sydney Tower (or Centrepoint Tower, for those with longer memories) has unveiled a bold new culinary direction for its 81st-floor dining room. Infinity by Mark Best is the new sky-high fine diner overlooking the city, bringing one of Australia's most celebrated chefs to one of Sydney's most iconic locations. Infinity marks a return to the kitchen for Best, whose internationally acclaimed Surry Hills fine diner Marque shuttered in 2016. At Infinity, he'll lead the kitchen daily, overseeing a menu of exclusively Australian produce. Best's opening menu is a showcase of the creativity and precision that are synonymous with his name — snacks and starters include South Coast sea urchin crumpets, potato and duck liver fritters and Abrolhos Island scallops with parmesan gnocchi and a zingy hot and sour sauce. Mains are just as inventive — grilled trout from the Snowy River is served with cultured cream and horseradish, while the gentle marbling of roast Margra lamb neck is given an earthy, umami edge with new potatoes, wakame and pickled radish. "Infinity by Mark Best is an opportunity to define what Australian dining can truly be: delicious, contemporary, culturally resonant, and grounded in ingredients and identity," says Best. "I want to tell a story of place, memory and innovation — to express who I am, and who we are — on a plate. I want to explore the evolving story of Australian cuisine, drawing on memory, transforming the familiar, and crafting a dining experience that connects land, culture and imagination in a setting unlike any other, 81 floors above the city that shaped me." The chef has also had a hand in curating the wine list alongside sommelier Polly Mackarel — and this, too, is an all-Australian affair, with picks spanning legacy vineyards and new-wave producers, as well as a generous selection of pours by the glass. Cocktails also have an Australian accent, from the Karu gin-backed martini garnished with olives from Toolunka Estate, to a sweet and smoky margarita featuring Act of Treason blanco agave, wild honey from the Blue Mountains, Geraldton wax and finger lime. The fitout is deliberately restrained — after all, the view does much of the heavy lifting here. The 90-seat dining room is anchored by subdued navy, charcoal and timber notes, accented with polished brass and soft amber glass. It's all designed to let the food — and that view — take centre stage. And with one of the country's most acclaimed chefs at the helm, there's no doubt that the dining room at the top of the town is now firmly back in the spotlight.
One underground restaurant dedicated to steak wasn't quite enough for Bistecca's James Bradey and Warren Burns. The Liquid and Larder directors, and minds behind The Wild Rover and Grandma's Bar, then opened The Gidley — an opulent basement restaurant inspired by old-school New York and London steakhouses. The subterranean setup means there are no windows and no distracting "beautiful harbour views", says Bradey. Lack of distractions is a passion of the restaurateur duo, who banned phones at the table at their original steak spot Bistecca. The same goes here, too. [caption id="attachment_751378" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Dominic Loneragan[/caption] Instead of Instagram, you'll be soaking up the lusciously designed space, by Darlinghurst studio Tom Mark Henry, which was made to feel like a "rabbit warren" that you could lose yourself in. Split into several rooms, including a lounge, dining area, wine bar and private room, the restaurants seats about 120 all up. Expect lots of velvet (both drapery and furnishings), along with dark timber veneer, herringbone floors and plush leather lounges — aka all those vintage steakhouse feels. Linking the space back to its home shores is the ornate wallpaper, which depicts native Australian flora and fauna. Overseeing the menu, that has its own notable throwbacks, is Bistecca Head Chef Pip Pratt. Taking inspiration from supper clubs and steakhouses, the menu heroes one dish: the Riverine black angus rib eye. Here, it's done three ways: chargrilled on-the-bone, a bourbon-glazed chop (300 grams) and a hard-to-come-by spinalis steak. To finish your steak off, douse it in your choice of roast chicken gravy, homemade barbecue sauce, cafe de Paris butter or garlic butter. While the rib eye is the star of the show, unlike Bistecca, steak isn't the sole dish vying for your attention at The Gidley. Other mains include jerk spiced charcoal squid with squid ink taramasalata, kangaroo loin with saltbush and cafe de paris and lion's mane mushroom with green peppercorn sauce and onion rings. It wouldn't be a traditional steakhouse without a burger, either — this one has a double beef patty with cheddar, pickles and optional bacon and egg. There's also a raw bar serving up the likes of oysters, caviar and prawn cocktails for starters, plus heaps of sides and salads — sizeable orders come in the form of seafood towers and a quarter suckling pig with confit potato, seeded mustard, thyme, iceberg and radicchio salad, homemade barbecue sauce, apple puree and cider jus. Desserts come with a bit of nostalgia, too, with the likes of corn and apple doughnuts, bourbon baba and buttermilk ice cream. Prefer drinking your desserts? There are plenty of sweet cocktails on offer too — take the Grasshopper Pie, made with Bulleit Rye, Archie Rose Double Malt, mint, cacao, Creme de Menthe, caramel and bitters. Since no steak is complete without a good glass of red, there's, thankfully, plenty of that. The extensive wine program is looked after by The Gidley's sommelier Seán McManus, with the 23-page list featuring many well-made drops from many well-known brands, many of which are bio-dynamic and sustainable. Bartender extraordinaire Jonothan Carr (Archie Rose, Kittyhawk, Door Knock, Burrow Bar) is pouring a "straight and stiff" array of batched and bottled cocktails at The Gidley. Expect all of your usual suspects and more creative options, including negronis for two and martinis served on silver trays. Images: Dominic Loneragan Appears in: Where to Find the Best Burgers in Sydney Where to Find the Best Steak in Sydney
If you had to pack up and run for your life, what would you grab? Clothes? Food? Phone charger? Australians and New Zealanders are in one heck of a lucky situation, we haven't had to throw essentials in a bag and flee because of war, genocide or unbridled violence. But nearly 100,000 people from the Middle East, South Asia and North Africa have had to do just that — this year alone. Refugees don't have the luxury of packing ten Louis Vuitton suitcases of unnecessary crap for their travels. They travel light, for the road is incredibly dangerous. It's only necessities that refugees throw into their bags before getting the hell out of their home country: medication, little food, phones, maybe a toothbrush. To get an insight into exactly what refugees are travelling with, the International Rescue Committee and photographer Tyler Jump asked an artist, a mother, a family, a child, a teenager and a pharmacist, who are all refugees from war-torn areas like Syria and Afghanistan, to show us what they'd managed to bring with them on their journey — what they'll need on the road to a (hopefully) more peaceful future. All images and quotes were originally published by Medium. A FAMILY OF 31 From Aleppo, Syria “I hope we die. This life is not worth to live anymore. Everyone closed the door in our face, there is no future.” 1 shirt 1 pair of jeans 1 pair of shoes Toiletries 1 diaper, 2 small cartons of milk and some biscuits Personal documents and money Sanitary pads A comb A TEENAGER Iqbal, 17, from Kunduz, Afghanistan “I want my skin to be white and hair to be spiked — I don’t want them to know I’m a refugee. I think that someone will spot me and call the police because I’m illegal.” 1 pair of pants, 1 shirt, 1 pair of shoes and 1 pair of socks Shampoo and hair gel, toothbrush and toothpaste, face whitening cream Comb, nail clipper Bandages 100 U.S. dollars 130 Turkish liras Smartphone and back-up cell phone SIM cards for Afghanistan, Iran and Turkey AN ARTIST Nour, 20, from Syria “I left Syria with two bags, but the smugglers told me I could only take one. The other bag had all of my clothes. This is all I have left.” Small bag of personal documents A rosary (gift from his friend; Nour doesn’t let it touch the floor) A watch (from his girlfriend; it broke during the journey) Syrian flag, Palestinian charm, silver and wooden bracelets (gifts from friends) Guitar picks (one also a gift from a friend) Cell phone and Syrian SIM card Photo ID 1 shirt A MOTHER Aboessa, 20, from Damascus, Syria “Everything is for my daughter to protect her against sickness. When we arrived in Greece, a kind man gave me two jars of food. Another man gave us biscuits and water when he saw my baby.” Hat for the baby An assortment of medication, a bottle of sterile water, and a jar of baby food A small supply of napkins for diaper changes A hat and a pair of socks for the baby Assortment of pain relievers, sunscreen and sunburn ointment, toothpaste Personal documents (including the baby’s vaccination history) Wallet (with photo ID and money) Cell phone charger Yellow headband A BOY Omran, 6, from Damascus, Syria 1 pair of pants, 1 shirt A syringe for emergencies Marshmallows and sweet cream (Omran’s favorite snacks) Soap, toothbrush and toothpaste Bandages A PHARMACIST Anonymous, 34, from Syria “I had to leave behind my parents and sister in Turkey. I thought, if I die on this boat, at least I will die with the photos of my family near me.” Money (wrapped to protect it from water) Old phone (wet and unusable) and new smart phone Phone chargers and headphones (plus extra battery charger) 16GB flash drive (containing family photos) Via Medium. Images: Tyler Jump/International Rescue Committee.
In a year that saw Sydney's cultural ecosystem and the legislative shackling of certain elements of it become a more polarising subject than ever before, the city's most innovative, forward-thinking residents have made outstanding lemonade. Our bars are more groundbreaking and imaginative, our events more unique and immersive, and our restaurants more inventive and experimental. With new openings abounding, Sydney is more vibrant, playful and fun than it ever has been. At Concrete Playground we encourage exploration and showcase innovation in our city every day, so we thought it fitting to reward those most talented whippersnappers pushing Sydney to be a better, braver city. And so, we are very pleased to announce the winners of Concrete Playground's Best of 2016 Awards. Sydney's newest restaurants have defied traditional fine dining, adding in-house cinemas, recreating provincial French manors, and redefining nose-to-tail. Cafes continue to cultivate compelling coffee breaks, building neighbourhood haunts from pop-up to permanency, championing local producers and turning old bowling clubs into urban farms. Our bars that have been reclaiming the night in the face of prevailing lockout laws, one glass of frosé at a time; from WWII-inspired salons to Sydney's first dedicated vermouth bar. Our new (or renewed) pubs that have the biggest hurdle to face — history. Pub renovations in 2016 remained strong, moving into more contemporary, fine dining-focused territory with some of the city's best design teams at hand. Sydney's event producers that have found new ways to celebrate Sydney life, reinvigorating dwindling or hidden spaces, and taking us on wild adventures in our own home. And those aiming to truly transform the city permanently have made headlines with long-awaited new cultural and food precincts, transforming Sydney neighbourhoods with gargantuan, smart and beneficial developments. This year, we have awarded both a reader voted People's Choice and Overall award in each of the following six categories: Best New Bar Best New Restaurant Best New Cafe Best New Pub Best New Event Best New Precinct These 36 outstanding Sydney (or Sydney-based) ventures have been handpicked by Concrete Playground for their combination of originality, innovation, creativity, approachability and sustainability. We straight-up love them. And the winners are... BEST NEW RESTAURANT OVERALL AND PEOPLE'S CHOICE: HUBERT They did it again. The winning streak continued with Restaurant Hubert, the first full-service restaurant from the Swillhouse Group, known for their elaborately themed drinking dens, The Baxter Inn, Frankie's and Shady Pines Saloon. From the moment you open the door, Hubert will hurtle you headfirst into a C.S. Lewis-style adventure, taking you from dreary Bligh Street to the resplendent old-world opulence of post-war Paris. It's like an adult's version of Narnia, only this time there's steak and wine. BEST NEW BAR OVERALL AND PEOPLE'S CHOICE: BIG POPPA'S Who knew that the three key ingredients to a good night out were hip hop, cheese and wine? Lewis Jaffrey and Jared Merlino, the two masterminds behind Big Poppa's, definitely did. Unlike most excellent ideas conceived over a few too many, these two hospitality vets (Jaffrey is ex-operations manager at The Baxter Inn, Frankie's and Shady Pines while Merlino is behind The Lobo Plantation and Kittyhawk) put their money where their cheese hole — uh, mouth — is. Cue Big Poppa's, an ode to Biggie Smalls in the old Hello Sailor digs on Oxford Street. BEST NEW CAFE OVERALL: HENRY LEE'S Ever since we first visited the Eveleigh Creative Precinct, a newly developed arts and culture precinct in Redfern, to check out the Cake Wines Cellar Door, we knew the space was in for something special. And Henry Lee's is the latest delicious tenant to open its doors in the creative hub. Preceded by the recent launch of the cellar door and design spaces by Frost Collective and Massive Interactive, this new concept cafe is in great company — and it's bringing even more local talent into the mix. The kitchen is all about seasonal produce, sustainable living and supporting the area's ever-expanding creative populous, whether it be in the food and drink industry, or arts and culture. Keeping it local may be the trend of the moment (and one that's supported by CP), but Henry Lee's is certainly putting their own distinct spin on the concept — one we haven't seen in many other cafes.This well-crafted menu is no surprise from founders Kath and Aaron Devaney, who have owned and operated two well-regarded cafes on the Central Coast (Black Treacle Cafe & Bakery and Long Jetty's Green Tangerine) and are sincerely passionate about the artisanal vibe. PEOPLE'S CHOICE: RISING SUN WORKSHOP Tinker on your motorbike and slurp your way through bowls of ramen on the same premises at Rising Sun Workshop's permanent Newtown digs. For the uninitiated, Rising Sun is a social enterprise that serves two purposes. On one hand, it provides its motor-revving members with a communal space for repairing and polishing up their bikes. On the other, it's a café, serving coffee, cookies and seriously killer ramen. The independent organisation was started by three friends, Adrian, Heleana and Dan, who love riding bikes, working on bikes and chatting about bikes while drinking coffee. They decided that Sydney needed an open, friendly, affordable space where this could happen more often. So, in 2013 they crowdfunding a cool $40,000 and launched a pop-up the next year. Now, it's permanent, You'll find Rising Sun's new workshop at 1C Whateley Street. It used to house a century-old hardware store, and the menu has scored a serious upgrade. You can now get nosh at breakfast, lunch and dinner, and you'll find some Southern influences mixing with Japanese tradition. BEST NEW PUB OVERALL: THE DOLPHIN HOTEL The new Dolphin Hotel has made a splash in the Sydney food scene for its ultra-chic interiors, high-flying Italian cuisine and charming salumeria and wine bar. As you can probably tell already, this ain't no ordinary boozer. At the helm of The Dolphin is foodie heavyweight and fashion designer Maurice Terzini (Icebergs, Da Orazio). From Icebergs he's managed to pluck chefs Monty Koludrovic and Dan Medcalf and drinks specialist Lenny Opai, who are working alongside Sam Cheetham (ex-Victoria Room and Becasse) and the 2015 Sommelier of the Year, James Hird. Don't count on a return of $10 nacho night. The biggest talking point is the interiors which have been designed by George Livissianis, who is known for his work on The Apollo, Cho Cho San and Billy Kwong, among others. Like one big interactive art installation, the public bar has been clad in swathes of fabric, while the dining room is graffitied in eye-popping monochrome motifs. The stark white interiors that dominate throughout will have you weeping for the cleaners on a Monday morning. PEOPLE'S CHOICE: THE GREEN LION Vegans must have a tough time in pubs, with meat and cheese usually front and centre of most menus. The Green Lion — the new eatery above The Red Lion Hotel in Rozelle — however, is catering exclusively for vegans and recreating pub classics like burgers, hot dogs and nachos with meat- and dairy-free alternatives. If you're not vegan or a regular to the category, it can be hard to judge how good vegan pub food is. Visually though, the resemblance is uncanny. Here, soy-based products are turned into beef patties, mince, battered fish, pepperoni and even melting cheese — the success of which is variable. For instance, a Green Mack Burger with a beefless patty, 'cheese', pickles, and special Mack sauce ($18) definitely resembles a cheeseburger; the mind boggles at what has to be done to soy products to make them look, and taste (sort of) like meat. If you're vegan, the experience of being in pub — and being able to order anything off the menu and drink anything behind the bar — is a fantastically rare experience. It's worth a visit for the vegan and the non-vegan, the curious and the ardent alike. BEST NEW EVENT OVERALL: MORE HUMAN THAN HUMAN: BLADE RUNNER Sydney took a trip to Los Angeles in the year 2019, where acid rain falls on crowded streets lit up by neon lights. As part of Art & About Sydney, Golden Age Cinema hosted a special experiential screening of Ridley Scott's sci-fi masterpiece Blade Runner, complete with music, art, food and a futuristic night market in an inner city carpark. Taking place on February 20, More Human Than Human: Blade Runner transformed the Goulburn Street car park into a dystopian installation space. Local artists and performers presented works inspired by Scott's groundbreaking Philip K. Dick adaptation, immersing visitors in the sights, sounds and themes of the film while pondering its ultimate question: what does it mean to be human? The evening concluded with a rooftop screening of the movie itself, and even though a light rain fell, the clear plastic ponchos were well on theme. PEOPLE'S CHOICE: PICNIC CINEMA Ever been at an outdoor cinema, and wished you could just jump into bed? Well, of course you have — bed is the one thing we can rely on to always be there for us, and we all wish it could follow us around for intermittent lie-downs. That's presumably why the geniuses at Sydney's new PicNic Cinema decided to implement beds into their outdoor setup. Well, that, and they were probably aware of the struggles of keeping your head propped up on a packet of chips while lying on a picnic rug trying to drink wine. PicNic Cinema took over Parramatta's Prince Alfred Square for 16 nights in April. Instead of just the usual picnic rug and bean bag sitcho, the cinema brought in enough inflatable double mattresses for 100 people to literally lie back and relax on. Guests even got a blankie in case it got chilly. Plus, they're back next year as Mov'In Bed Cinema. BEST NEW PRECINCT OVERALL AND PEOPLE'S CHOICE: TRAMSHEDS The massive revamp of the heritage-listed Rozelle Tram Depot now features a European-inspired market hall lined with bespoke retailers, from butchers and bakers to fried chicken and fresh pasta makers. Basically, it's enough to make your eyes weep with sweet, sweet happiness tears (and maybe some of anxious indecision). Each of the retailers — which include some of Sydney's biggest food names, as well as some newbies — have created a stunning space to serve their nosh, with most offering takeaway as well as produce to take home and cook. There's a supermarket, a nail salon and a gym, but the food is where it's at. It's open seven days a week for brekkie, lunch and dinner, so there's ample opportunity for gorging.
Take the lift in Westfield Sydney up to level seven and you'll find this massive 1200-square-metre Middle Eastern restaurant and bar, Babylon, where an impressive calibre of hospitality vets are waiting to wine and dine you. Babylon Rooftop & Garden Bar has a cool 800-person capacity and a bustling kitchen producing hearty eats inspired by the street eats of Turkey, Israel, Lebanon, Cyprus and Egypt. The extensive 20+ dish bar menu features the likes of lamb skewers, whole wood roasted chicken, spiced fried cauliflower and meze aplenty — including hummus with macadamias and dukkah; and harissa king prawn skewers. The restaurant centres on a custom-built mangal (Turkish grill) and two rotisseries. Expect both eastern Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences on the menu here, with share plates split between flora, fauna and ocean. There's pan-roasted Murray cod with mussel saffron sauce and sorrel, and a huge slow-cooked lamb shoulder. Enjoy it all with the house-made bread, which comes paired with za'atar-spiced butter. There are numerous private dining spaces at Babylon Rooftop & Garden Bar, including the extremely opulent lantern room which can host 50 guests cocktail style and the dimly lit Larsa room with rich velvet curtains which is perfect for groups of up to twenty. The fit-out is the work of Queensland architects Hogg & Lamb and Woy Woy interior stylists Stewart + Highfield. As the venue's name suggests, it takes inspiration from the metropolis of old, with the rooftop terrace modelled on the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. Its many opulent features include Italian travertine archways, velvet upholstery, spotted gum timber and marble finishes throughout — used in the dark gold bar, verde fusion tabletops and black stone terrace floor. Images: Steven Woodburn Appears in: The Best Bottomless Brunches in Sydney
Fred's in Paddington is a venue that offers us three unique experiences wrapped up into one wholesome night of farm-to-table fun amid a genuinely lovely setting. Entering on street level you're greeted by an industrial-meets-vintage cocktail bar with marble aplenty. The dining room is slick and cosy. The setting emulates the warmth at the heart of a charming country homestead — oversized kitchen islands and freestanding Tuscan grills do away with a traditional restaurant set-up where a custom-made hearth emits a soft glow while the kitchen calmly moves between pans and plates. Originally conceived by superstar Head Chef Danielle Alvarez (who honed her skills at Napa Valley's famed The French Laundry) the focus for the menu has always been about sustainable produce from the people who farm it served by an enthusiastic team passionate about elevating your dining experience. Alvarez may have moved on, but the sentiment toward food and service remains in tact at Fred's. Examining the lunch and dinner menu the best approach is getting on board with your co-diners and filling the table with a spread of food, feasting rather than neatly settling for three courses each. You'll find simple starters such as fougasse with butter and olive oil and refreshing smaller plates like beef tartare with black pepper, anchovies and buckwheat crackers, or the rather special cucumber with poached lobster and crème fraiche. Then there's hearty wood oven dishes and bigger protein-forward items off the grill including a woodfired bass grouper, the Milly Hill lamb or the rib eye steak executed at a very high level. Tipples-wise, the full wine list should satisfy any palate with its 26 pages of options; there's also a strong beer and cider selection and enough spirits to drown a European oligarch. When it comes to cocktails, the signature offering is stellar, but we recommend saving your cocktail drinking for the jazz-inspired hidey hole Charlie Parker's in the basement under Fred's. You should definitely make a stop down here, but it's up top where you'll really enjoy the show. Images: Byron Martin for PADDO(Collective)
