Visiting a new city can be hard. Not only because you have to learn how to use their unique version of public transport, but most importantly because you need to maximise on eating only the most delicious food in the city. Stumble once and you've lost a valuable meal opportunity — a hurdle that is hard for an epicurious tourist to overcome. But take heart, we've compiled a list of ten eateries to visit when you come to Auckland so your mind will be consistently blown and all your worries of eating a subpar meal can be left in the overpriced taxi from the airport. AMANO, BRITOMART Amano is Pinterest personified. Bouquets of dried flowers dangle from exposed rafters, with the space huge and rustic and beautiful. And the menu is packed with bouquets of flavours that are mostly sourced from local growers or handmade onsite, so you can rest assured that anything you choose will have been made with a hearty dose of TLC. Whether you're a carnivore, herbivore or bonkers for a bit of pasta, your needs will be met and your expectations exceeded. Amano is cloud nine made of flowers, handkerchief pasta and happy bellies. COCO'S CANTINA, KARANGAHAPE ROAD If you're looking for a restaurant with personality and pizzaz, then look no further; charisma is in Coco's bones and bland isn't a word recognised in its vocabulary. Where owner-operators are celebrated and where community isn't a quaint concept but a way of life, Coco's is a restaurant with integrity. Your orders will be taken by waitstaff who feel like friends, and your food, sourced locally and very intentionally, will make you feel whole and perfectly full at the same time. Whether you're in the mood for a cheeky happy hour pomodoro or a romantic Italian meal, Coco's is the ticket. Don't forget to order a bowl of the legendary polenta chips, you won't regret it. GEMMAYZE ST, KARANGAHAPE ROAD Nestled in the back corner of the curious St Kevin's Arcade, Gemmayze St is a dining opportunity like no other. With all the finest Lebanese trimmings and traditional artefacts, Chef Samir Allen and his family aim to give everyone an authentic Lebanese dining experience. Ordering is simple, either you choose from the bursting menu or you simply say "bring" (in Arabic "jeeb") and the chef will provide you with a feast. Either way, you won't be disappointed. ORPHANS KITCHEN, PONSONBY Exploring national flavour and identity through offerings from the bush, ocean, orchards and fjords, Orphans Kitchen's food philosophy is beautifully holistic (they even have a rooftop hive where they collect honey). Beautiful on the inside too, its interior is warm and inviting. High tables surrounded by tall, sheepskin-covered chairs fill the main dining room, which hums with chatter that is occasionally lulled by a mouthful of food. The seasonal menu is homely and unpretentious, the flavours unique and unexpected. Hearty without being predictable, it's a culinary experience, unique to New Zealand, that you don't want to miss. PREGO, PONSONBY Before Ponsonby became the buzzy hive of restaurants and bars it is today, Prego was there. Since 1986, Prego has been serving up consistently great Italian eats with excellent service to match — not to mention a certain elegance and sophistication that has stood the ultimate test of time. Known as 'Ponsonby's Kitchen', Prego is known for its oven-baked loaf, amazing pasta and pizza that will hook you from the minute you take a bite (the bianco is a thing of dreams). The restaurant is an institution for a reason and a must-try for anyone who sets foot in Auckland. HAN, PARNELL Although it's tucked away on Parnell Road, Han should be at the forefront of your mind. Slick fit-out, slick service, slick food — the experience is one slick ride. Designed by Patterson Architects, the interior is a haven of industrial-chic, each table decorated with extractor fans that are as pleasing to the eye as they are practical. The modern Korean cuisine swaps traditional ingredients with finer, more exciting ones and introduces you to unexpected combinations — pork belly and kimchi in a pie, anyone? Han's authentic charcoal barbecue is a DIY experience not to pass up — the meat is prepared so perfectly by the chef, it's pretty much impossible for anyone to stuff up the barbecuing process. KISS KISS, BALMORAL If you've been hurt by undercooked pork belly and soggy bao before, Kiss Kiss will restore your faith in Asian-fusion. Found just off Auckland's busy Dominion Road, among some of the best Chinese eateries, Kiss Kiss can definitely stand on its own two feet. Its kitsch interior — dominated by neon lights, viewfinders and loud floral tablecloths — sets the tone for a fun evening. The pork ribs are insanely tender, the sauce worth licking every last finger for. The free-range lemongrass fried chicken bao is also a must-try, and it's small enough to allow you to fit more of the menu in. This bang-for-your-buck means you won't leave Kiss Kiss broke, but you will leave wanting more — after the food coma wears off, that is. FEDERAL DELICATESSEN, AUCKLAND CBD If you've ever wanted to experience a Manhattan deli from the 1950s, Fed Deli is just the ticket. From the mint green uniforms to the jars of pickles, cartons of cheesecake that line the walls to the kept promise of bottomless coffee — it's the attention to detail that makes the experience so effortlessly authentic. Sit in a cosy booth or take a seat at the counter where you can stare at the chefs and order off a menu stacked with New York deli-style food. Do not look past the poutine, it will be among the best you've ever had. The chicken salad sandwich doesn't go amiss either. Visit the 50s and one of Auckland's best eateries all in one night. CASSIA, AUCKLAND CBD Cassia was Auckland's first restaurants to introduce modern Indian dining, and we're sure glad they did. Owned and operated by Sid Sahrawat, one of New Zealand's most exciting chefs, Sid takes traditional Indian dishes and reworks them with modern, local ingredients. Located in the heart of the city, you'll find this south Asian gem off Fort Lane, down a set of stairs. Proving to the country that there is more to Indian food than just curry, the menu boasts mouthwatering flavour pairings you won't find many other places. There are only two mistakes you could make when visiting Cassia. One would be not ordering off the ever-changing G&T menu with its local offering of gins, and the other would be not leaving room for dessert. The apple sorbet with walnut, raspberry and white chocolate will be a welcome addition to your Auckland bucket list. IMA CUISINE, AUCKLAND CBD Ima means 'mother' in Hebrew. And if that doesn't prepare you for the onslaught of delicious food you will experience while visiting Ima, you can't say you weren't warned. Yael Shohat — owner of Ima, Israeli native and purveyor of all things delicious — wanted Auckland to experience the joy of a Middle Eastern family-style banquet, where plates and plenty of memories are shared. The interior is colourful, as is the feast, with every table bursting with displays of vivid generosity. The flavours are just as intense and wonderful, whether you're biting into the falafel or free-range chicken mesachan, your tastebuds won't be disappointed. Besides trying as much as you can, our only other advice is to wear pants with an elasticated waistband. LET'S DO THIS, HOW DO I GET THERE? Flights to Auckland from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane are super short — around three-and-a-half hours on average — and Air New Zealand flies direct from all three cities and offers accessible fares. Once you arrive in Auckland, jump in a hire car and let your gustatory adventure begin. https://youtu.be/4kRccnc0F20 Book your flights to Auckland with Air New Zealand and start planning your next long weekend away. Looking for more Auckland food recommendations? Check out our Auckland restaurant directory here.
Our favourite new Sydney bars of 2020 brought us inventive cocktails, natural wines and retrofuturistic interiors. The city's latest wine stop, however, is stripping things back with a sleek look, an extensive wine list and simple, Mediterranean-focused menu. Vini Divini, Italian for 'divine wines', is situated on Carrington Street, just behind Wynyard Station. Out front, you'll find a relaxed alfresco dining area, while inside you'll be greeted by a 1000-bottle strong wine wall, curated by Rockpool Dining Group's former head sommelier Raphael Mulligan. The inner city bar contains one of the city's largest by-the-glass wine lists, with selections from ten wine regions including France, Spain, Greece, Armenia and, of course, Italy. By the glass, the wine ranges from $12–45, while bottles can set you back anywhere from $47–480. Mulligan's continually updated wine list comes courtesy of his relationship with independent winemakers and distributors. Accompanying the wine is the bar's array of Mediterranean nibbles, share plates and heartier meals, from a kitchen overseen by Anason alum Seda Güç. You can ease into the night with the likes of whipped ricotta with black olives and lemon thyme ($9), Pioik rosemary focaccia with olive oil ($9), or Güç's signature baba ganoush ($9). More filling dishes include beef carpaccio ($25), kingfish crudo ($26) and beetroot-marinated artichokes with toasted almonds ($18). There's also a selection of salumi and cheese available to complement your wine, including wagyu bresaola ($13) and gorgonzola picante with fresh honeycomb ($13), while desserts like Ciccione & Sons lime sorbet served with Ketel One vodka ($13), are on offer to provide the perfect nightcap — although a glass of red would serve just as well.
The spooky season may still be underway, but the festivities will turn Christmassy before you know it. Even if it shocks the system, early gift shopping never hurts anybody. It's a good thing the good people at Cambridge Markets have organised artisanal events all over Sydney until Christmas week. The season kicks off in the south with the Cronulla Christmas Market, which will take over Don Lucas Reserve from Saturday, November 16 to Sunday, November 17, from 10am–4pm. The following weekend (Saturday, November 23), across town in Rhodes Foreshore Park, will be the Rhodes Christmas Festival from 10am–4pm. Later that week, in the western suburbs, head to Centenary Square after work on Thursday, November 28, for the Parramatta Christmas Festival (from 3.30–7.30pm). Heading into December, the Royal Randwick Racecourse will host a Christmas festival from 1.30 to 7.30pm on Friday, December 6. If you can't make it to Randwick, check out the Ryde Christmas Market at Anderson Park instead on Sunday, December 8, from 10am–4pm. On Saturday, December 14, Burwood Park will host the Burwood Christmas Market from 12pm–9pm, which will also feature live music and a fireworks show. On the home run to Christmas, you really should have your gift shopping done by now. However, you've still got some opportunities on Saturday, December 21. In Sydney's south, the Green Square Christmas Market will run from 10am–4pm, while further west, you'll find the Wentworth Point Twilight Christmas Market from 6pm–10pm. Looking at this hefty list, you've got more than enough opportunities to get your Christmas fix. Whether it's gift shopping, a family day out or a wholesome date with your S/O, get your calendars and tote bags ready — it's market time. Cambridge Christmas Markets are coming to various locations all over Sydney. For more information on dates and times, visit the Cambridge Markets website.
Australia mightn't be home to any of the globe's top restaurants for 2023, but love is pouring out for our wineries. Among the many lists of the world's best — which also includes bars and steak joints — the World's Best Vineyards ranking names the planet's top wine destinations. Earning a spot this year: three South Australian winemakers. From the Aussie contingent, McLaren Vale's d'Arenberg nabbed the highest placing, coming in at 17th. Sprawling around a giant cube might've helped. That five-storey square is quite the centrepiece, but the Osborn family's organic and biodynamic tipples score plenty of attention on their own. The awards also praised the vineyard for living "up to its billing as 'more than just a cellar door'". Next on the list: Henschke in Eden Valley, which boasts a vineyard that was planted more than 150 years ago, and nabbed 26th spot. Then comes Magill's Penfolds Magill Estate, which dates back to 1844 and is particularly known for its shiraz, in 44th place. None of these wineries were anointed the best in Australasia, however. That honour went to New Zealand's Rippon, in Central Otago, which also sits in 11th spot in the top 50. The awards heaped praise onto the Southern Alps favourite for producing "a highly lauded range of pinot noir from this magnificent landscape and its biodynamically farmed vineyards". While Down Under was well-represented among the Best 50 Vineyards, 23 vineyards in this year's list hailed from Europe. France alone scored nine spots, the highest number for any single country. That said, the top placing went to Argentina's Catena Zapata, which also won overall South American vineyard. Next came Europe's first listing, for Spain's Bodegas de los Herederos del Marqués de Riscal, followed by Chilean vineyard VIK in third, Creation in South Africa in fourth, and France's Château Smith Haut Lafitte in fifth. Completing the top ten: Bodega Garzón in Uruguay, Montes in Chile, Germany's Schloss Johannisberg, and both Bodegas Salentein and El Enemigo Wines in Argentina. If you plan your getaways around vino, consider this list a handy piece of travel inspiration. If you're just interested in the drops, consider it a guide for your next trip to the bottle shop. The World's Best Vineyards also names a 51–100 list, which saw New Zealand's Craggy Range come in at 58th, Man O' War at 77th and Kumeu River Wines at 81st, plus Australia's Seppeltsfield Barossa at 98th. To check out the full World's Best Vineyards Top 50 and 100 lists, head to the awards' website. Feeling inspired to book a getaway? You can now book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations all around the world.
When spring hits, hospitality giant Merivale is celebrating by running a month-long happy hour offering nearly half-priced beverages at venues across Sydney. Throughout most of September, a heap of Merivale pubs and bars will be taking 49-percent off the price of all drinks for any groups of eight or more who book. This means that you can enjoy a few discounted beers, wines or cocktails with your closest mates in the Vic on the Park's beer garden or on the deck at The Newport. [caption id="attachment_848714" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The Vic on the Park[/caption] To activate the deal, just round up seven of your friends and family, and make a booking for the full eight of you between Friday, September 1–Thursday, September 28. You'll then be offered 49-percent off all of any drinks you order in the first hour of your booking. The deal includes all beverages below $350 per item — so everything from Reschs to margaritas is on the table. Other Merivale venues that will be taking part in the promotion include bustling beer garden The Alex, Coogee Pavilion's ground floor bar area, The Royal George, The Royal Bondi, Charlie Parker's, Little Felix, The Dog, Norton's, The Paddington and The Beresford, just to name a few. Check out the full list at the Merivale website.
The pandemic hasn't conjured up many fond memories, but Normal People's small-screen arrival in 2020 is definitely one of them. Dropping into our streaming queues when the world was mid-lockdown and already feeling every emotion possible, the heartwrenching TV adaptation of Sally Rooney's novel was impossible to stop watching — thanks to the story, the pitch-perfect performances and the evocative mood that made you feel like you'd stepped into the writer's pages. Based on the two trailers for Conversations with Friends so far, history looks set to repeat itself on Monday, May 16, which is when the latest television version of one of Rooney's beloved books hits. This time around, the author's debut novel is making its way to the screen, but it has another tale of love, lust and emotional chaos to tell. Of course it does. As seen in the first teaser back in January and fleshed out further in the just-dropped full trailer, Conversations with Friends focuses on Dublin college students Frances (newcomer Alison Oliver) and Bobbi (Sasha Lane, American Honey), as well as married couple Nick (Joe Alwyn, The Souvenir: Part II) and Melissa (Jemima Kirke, Sex Education). Frances and Bobbi used to date, but are now best friends; however, everything shifts when they meet their new pals — with Frances and Nick having an affair, Melissa and Bobbi drawn to each other, and Frances and Bobbi's friendship put under threat. Complicating matters: everything from the fact that Frances and Bobbi are so close that they even perform spoken word poetry together, through to their different ways of pursuing Melissa and Nick. While Melissa and Bobbi flirt openly, Frances and Nick keep things under wraps. And yes, as the trailer shows to the sounds of Phoebe Bridgers, it all gets complex fast. Unfurling across 12 parts, all of which will drop on the same day — so you really can repeat the Normal People binging experience — Conversations with Friends also shares that series' co-director Lenny Abrahamson (Room, Frank), as well as co-screenwriter Alice Birch (Lady Macbeth). When Conversations with Friends was first published five years back, it launched Rooney's career and sent award nominations her way, with Hulu and BBC Three announcing their plans to bring it to the screen after the Normal People adaptation proved such a hit. Obviously, if you can't wait for Conversations with Friends to land in your streaming queue, you can try to fill your time rebinging Normal People. Check out the full trailer for Conversations with Friends below: Conversations with Friends will be available to stream Down Under via Prime Video on Monday, May 16. Images: Alison Oliver (Frances), Sasha Lane (Bobbi), Joe Alwyn (Nick) and Jemima Kirke (Melissa) in Conversations with Friends, Element Pictures. Photographer: Enda Bowe.
A hub for some of the best sandwiches and baked goods in Sydney, Saga Enmore has been delighting tastebuds in the Inner West for over six years now. But, all good things must come to an end, with owner Andy Bowdy announcing that the cafe would be calling it quits — and that he'd be looking towards bigger things — via a post on Instagram. "Growing up playing backyard cricket we always played by the rule six and out… Sometimes these rules apply to life and Saga has just smashed the ball three houses down. After six and a bit years Mads and myself feel like it's time to call it a day for Saga, " the post reads. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Andrew Bowden (@andybowdy) "It's been a ride filled with ups and downs, wonderful staff, a pandemic, many a sweet treat, an opening and closing of a second location, and of course the chance to meet and cook for all of the people who walked through our doors and supported our little cafe in Enmore. It's a dream I don't think either of us ever thought we would realise and it was an absolute privilege to have you all along for the ride." Bowdy opened Saga after serving as the pastry chef down the road at Hartsyard. His venture quickly built a cult following for its no-fuss cafe with next-level pastries and loaded sambos. Bowdy fans mustn't fear, however, with the post also alluding to plenty of exciting culinary developments to come in the future. [caption id="attachment_861109" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jarrad Shaw[/caption] "Obviously I can't do much besides cook so don't panic, I'll still be making celebration cakes and other deliciousness. We are busy working on a new project which we will be able to share with you very soon!!" Saga will close on Sunday, June 25. So, if you want to squeeze in one more taste of the team's delectable goods (for now at least), then you've still got two weeks. [caption id="attachment_615657" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Kimberly Low[/caption] Saga Enmore is located at 178 Enmore Road, Enmore. Its last day of operation will be Sunday, June 25. Until then it'll be open 9am–3pm Wednesday–Sunday. Top image: Kimberley Low.
Thanks to the success of Beef, the past year has been huge for Ali Wong. It was back in April 2023 that the hit series arrived, getting audiences obsessed and sparking plenty of accolades coming Wong's way. She won Best Actress Emmy, Golden Globe, Film Independent Spirt and Screen Actors Guild awards for playing Amy Lau, who has a carpark altercation with Danny Cho (Steven Yeun, Nope) that neither can let go of — and that changes both of their lives. The last 12 months have also been massive for the American actor and comedian onstage, all thanks to her Ali Wong: Live tour. Wong has been playing to full houses in the US, and also in Paris and London — and Down Under audiences are just as keen to see her. Before general tickets even go on sale for her Australian visit, she's added extra gigs. [caption id="attachment_946690" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Andrew Cooper/Netflix © 2023[/caption] Wong will head to Australia and New Zealand in July 2024. She initially announced four dates, kicking off in Auckland, then jumping over to Melbourne. From there, she'll work her way up the east coast, next hitting up Sydney before wrapping up in Brisbane. Now, both Melbourne and Sydney have scored extra gigs thanks to the huge demand during the ticket pre-sale period. Behind the microphone, Wong's comedy career dates back almost two decades, including three Netflix stand-up specials: 2016's Baby Cobra, 2018's Hard Knock Wife and 2022's Don Wong. And, as an author, Wong also has 2019's Dear Girls: Intimate Tales, Untold Secrets & Advice for Living Your Best Life to her name. On-screen, Wong doesn't let go of grudges easily, at least in Beef. In rom-com Always Be My Maybe, she's also been romanced by Keanu Reeves. Tuca & Bertie had her voice an anthropomorphic song thrush, while Big Mouth sent her back to middle school. Beef, on which Wong was also an executive producer, earned just as much love for the show overall — including the Emmy for Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series; Golden Globe for Best Television Limited Series, Anthology Series, or Motion Picture Made for Television; Gotham Award for Breakthrough Series under 40 minutes; Film Independent Spirt Award for Best New Scripted Series; and PGA for Outstanding Producer of Limited or Anthology Series Television. [caption id="attachment_722120" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ed Araquel / Netflix[/caption] Ali Wong: Live Tour Dates — Australia and New Zealand 2024: Monday, July 8 — The Civic, Auckland Thursday, July 11–Friday, July 12 — Palais Theatre, Melbourne Friday, July 19–Saturday, July 20 — ICC Theatre, Sydney Monday, July 22 — Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, Brisbane Ali Wong is touring Down Under in July 2024, with general sales from 9am local time on Friday, March 22 — head to the tour website for further details. Top image: Andrew Cooper/Netflix © 2023.
To text, post, like, swipe, chat and livestream, or not to? In today's always-online times, that truly is the question. For wannabe influencer Lucy (Charlotte Nicdao), the answer is simple, much to her friend and housemate Daisy's (Gemma Bird Matheson) growing dismay. The perky, impulsive and attention-seeking Brisbanite isn't going to become famous for living the best version of her life if no one's watching, after all. No, for her dream of internet stardom to come true, she'll need to have her fingers constantly glued to her smartphone's buttons. Welcome to the world of Content, the ABC's new short-form web series, which is dropping episodes on ABC iView and YouTube weekly. With the show playing out on Lucy and Daisy's smartphone screens, that title does double duty. Firstly, it recognises that pumping out an endless stream of texts, DMs, Facebook posts, Instagram pics, Tinder swipes, video chats and other online content is just part and parcel of modern-day living. We're all smartphone addicts, and we might as well admit it, really. But the show unpacks the flipside as well, realising that continually negotiating our existence via an always-connected rectangle might not be the best path to lasting happiness. Lucy and Daisy are each accustomed to a ceaseless sea of notifications lighting up their screens. Working, dating, driving, bushwalking, graduating from uni — regardless of what they happen to be doing at any given moment, their smartphones are in their hands. Lucy takes that notion to another level, however, with her determined quest for glory knowing no bounds. When she hops behind the wheel, she livestreams it. When she crashes, she keeps filming. When the cops arrive at the scene, she's more interested in chatting to her followers than being taken to hospital. And when the video of her accident goes viral and becomes a meme, giving Lucy the moniker '#Flipgirl', it's the best moment of her life. If the above story sounds familiar, that's because it has been splashed across news headlines over the past week. After Content's first episode dropped, footage of Lucy's fictional fender bender hit Reddit, was mistaken for the real thing, and the reaction spread quickly. Art imitated life, then life imitated art, with a show about a millennial going viral almost instantly going viral itself. Created by Ludo Studios, directed by Daley Pearson and Walter Woodman, and written by Anna Barnes, the seven-part series proves equally hilarious, insightful and — as the Reddit incident demonstrates — authentic. It's both a sign of the times and a window into our 21st-century souls. Looking over someone's shoulder to steal a peek at their smartphone screen has become today's ultimate casual act of voyeurism, because the pocket-sized computers are just that integral to our lives. So, with that in mind, Content lets us watch. The end result isn't just equally perceptive and entertaining, although both terms apply. Framed vertically — aka designed to be watched on your own smartphone, naturally — Content is part of a growing trend called 'screenlife'. Relaying narratives purely through computer and phone displays, the technique has driven films such as Unfriended, Profile and Searching. And, as long as we all keep living our lives through our screens like Lucy, that list will only keep growing. Check out the first episode of Content below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ALEdgJj1iQI&feature=youtu.be New episodes of Content drop weekly on ABC iView and YouTube.
Maybe you've heard about that fabled burger joint in Penrith (and now Beaumont Hills) named Burger Head. Maybe you've wanted to go but you live in the inner west and rarely leave. Well, here's your chance to get your hands on one of the much-loved burgers, with Newtown brewhouse Young Henrys hosting the burger joint for a one-day pop-up. Sunday, February 3 marks the first time Burger Head's burgers will hit the inner west. For the occasion, the team will be cooking up some crowd favourites alongside a one-off creation, which includes a smashed Angus beef patty, beer tempura onion rings, beer cheese sauce (both making use of Young Henrys' brews, of course), American hi-melt cheese and a smothering of dill and jalapeño mayo. If you've never tried Burger Head's burgers before, we suggest trying The Americana (with a smashed Angus patty, pulled barbecue brisket, grilled onions and mustard mayo) or The Clucker (a fried buttermilk chicken burger seasoned with 16 herbs and spices, pickled onion and mayo).
How will Sex Education climax? That's the big streaming question for September, when the hit Netflix series returns for its fourth season and also says farewell. How will Otis Milburn (Asa Butterfield, Flux Gourmet) and his friends fare at a new school? What happens when he has a fellow teen sex therapist also giving his peers advice? How stressed is Eric (Ncuti Gatwa, the next Doctor Who) about making a good first impression among his new classmates? What will university in the US bring for Maeve (Emma Mackey, Barbie)? Add those to the queries that'll be answered on Thursday, September 21. Back in July, Netflix announced two things: that Sex Education would finally drop new episodes this spring, but that this'd be its big finish. Following a teaser trailer at the same time, the platform has now revealed a full sneak peek at how the show will wrap up its roll in streaming's sheets. As always, a whole lot of teen drama and chaos is on its way. Since 2019, Netflix has taken viewers to the fictional Moordale Secondary School, where Otis followed his sex-therapist mum Jean's (Gillian Anderson, The Great) lead and started helping his schoolmates with their romantic and sexual struggles — as he himself tussled with his own troubles, and also with his feelings for Maeve. When Sex Education unveils its last run, the series will move the action over to Cavendish Sixth Form College. Queue plenty of the trains of thought outlined above, as well as big changes, new beginnings and new challenges. When Sex Education creator, lead writer and executive producer Laurie Nunn announced that the show was saying goodbye, she said that the series' team "wanted to make a show that would answer some of the questions we all used to have about love, sex, friendship and our bodies. Something that would have helped our inner teenagers feel a little less alone. It's been overwhelming seeing how the show has connected with people around the world, and we hope it's made some of you feel a little less alone, too." "This was not an easy decision to make, but as the themes and the stories of the new season crystallised, it became clear that it was the right time to graduate," Nunn continued about bringing Sex Education to an end. As well as Butterfield, Anderson, plus Barbie co-stars Gatwa, Mackey and Connor Swindells, Sex Education will also see Aimee-Lou Wood (Living) back as Aimee and Kedar Williams-Stirling (Small Axe) as Jackson — among other familiar faces. Helping them say cheerio: Schitt's Creek favourite Dan Levy, Thaddea Graham (Doctor Who), Lisa McGrillis (Last Night in Soho), Marie Reuther (The Kingdom), Jodie Turner Smith (White Noise) and Eshaan Akbar (Spitting Image). Check out the full trailer for Sex Education season four below: Sex Education season four will stream via Netflix from Thursday, September 21. Images: Samuel Taylor / Netflix.
Last year, Woolworths trialled checkout-free shopping at its Double Bay store. And we guess it was a success, because the supermarket chain has now expanded its Scan&Go service across the Sydney CBD. As of today, Thursday, June 27, customers at four metro stores — Pitt Street, Met Centre, George Street or York Street — are now able to use an app to self-scan and pay for groceries. Here's how it works: download the Scan&Go app on your iPhone or Android, and use it to scan products as you walk through one of the participating stores. Once you've finished your shop, you pay via the app, too, then tap-off at a dedicated kiosk near the exit. No human interactions necessary. To download the app, you need to be Woolworths Rewards member and must upload your credit or debit card details. Woolies also rolled out Scan&Go at its Mona Vale shop last week, and Double Bay is still using the technology, bringing the total number of stores offering the service to six. Going forward, the app will be trialled across more Sydney stores, too. The new technology has already been embraced overseas, with retail giant Amazon opening its first checkout-free, fully automated shop-and-go grocery store in Seattle earlier this year, and China's bricks-and-mortar Alibaba stores using a similar technology. Woolworth's Scan&Go is now available at the CBD's Pitt Street, Met Centre, George Street and York Street, as well as Mona Vale and Double Bay.
Clear your weekend schedules, Sydneysiders — there's a bottomless margaritas and tacos brunch here to fill your weekends. Bondi's buzzing Mexican restaurant Taqiza is throwing an indulgent brunch party that'll bring all the good vibes of a summery vacation in Tulum to Sydney's most famous beach suburb. It's inspired by the success of its sister restaurant Carbòn's similar all-you-can-eat offer. But, Taqiza has taken things up a notch by also getting inspo from the recent Netflix series Taco Chronicles, which starts with a deep dive into the savoury, pork-based al pastor tacos that are a street-food staple of Mexico City. Every Saturday and Sunday from 12–5pm, Taqiza is offering all the al pastor tacos your belly can handle, plus bottomless margaritas for $75 per person. Prefer plant-based? There'll be vegan tacos on offer, too. You'll be sipping on some top-quality cocktails, with Taqiza using some of the best quality tequilas to make its margaritas. So, you won't need to worry about a banging hangover from cheap booze — all your margs will be made with the good stuff. For a non-stop flavour feast, book your spot now, put on your snazziest pair of stretchy pants and head on down to Bondi for all the zesty margaritas and pork tacos you can handle.
When Barry said farewell earlier in 2023, it brought one of the best supporting performances in recent years to an end with it. Star, creator, writer and director Bill Hader wasn't the only talent scoring awards for the hitman dramedy, with Henry Winkler also earning plenty of love — and nabbing his first Primetime Emmy win more than four decades after he was first nominated in the 70s for Happy Days. That's quite the story from a career full of them, given that Winkler will always be known as Arthur 'The Fonz' Fonzarelli, for scene-stealing parts in Arrested Development and Parks and Recreation, and for popping up everywhere from the Scream franchise and The French Dispatch to multiple Adam Sandler movies as well. And, Winkler will tell those tales when he heads to Australia in 2024 on a speaking tour to reflect upon his time in Hollywood. [caption id="attachment_918614" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Andrew Eccles[/caption] Jumping sharks might not be on the agenda, but chatting about doing so more than once — and changing TV history when he made the leap the first time — likely will be. Acting classes also won't be on the itinerary, but hearing about half a century spent performing definitely is. Winkler's tour will follow the release of book Being Henry: The Fonz... and Beyond in October, which will also step through playing Fonzie, Barry Zuckercorn, Dr Saperstein, Gene Cousineau and more. On a six-stop visit, Winkler will head to Sydney, Adelaide, Perth, Melbourne, Canberra and Brisbane across two weeks in February. Hopefully also getting a mention: his role in helping develop the original MacGyver back in the 80s. HENRY WINKLER'S 'THE FONZ AND BEYOND' 2024 AUSTRALIAN TOUR: Tuesday, February 6 — Sydney Town Hall, Sydney Wednesday, February 7 — Her Majesty's Theatre, Adelaide Thursday, February 8 — Perth Concert Hall, Perth Thursday, February 15 — Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne, Melbourne Saturday, February 17 — Canberra Theatre, Canberra Monday, February 19 — QPAC Concert Hall, Brisbane Henry Winkler is touring Australia in February 2024, with pre-sale tickets from 10am on Tuesday, September 19 and general sales from Friday, September 22 — head to the tour website for further details. Top image: HBO.
First, it was a 1990 John Waters-directed film starring Johnny Depp in the titular role. Since 2007, it's been the second of the iconic director's movies to get the stage musical treatment — after Hairspray, of course. We're talking about Cry-Baby, which has already picked up four Sydney Theatre Awards, and is now heading to the Sydney Opera House. From Thursday, July 22–Sunday, August 15, songs such as 'I'm Infected' and 'Girl, Can I Kiss You With Tongue?' will echo throughout the famed venue, all thanks to Cry-Baby The Musical. Sure, you've seen plenty of takes on the teen rebel genre before — it's a cinema staple, after all, and has been since the 50s — but only Waters could've dreamed up this Baltimore-set tale. The musical follows Wade 'Cry-Baby' Walker, leader of the 'Drapes'. He falls for Allison, a 'Square' rich girl — and yes, if you're thinking about West Side Story or Grease, that's understandable. But, again, the key is Waters. His tongue-in-cheek film has been adapted by the same team that first brought Hairspray to the stage, too. For the Opera House shows, the folks behind the musical's aforementioned award-winning run at the Hayes Theatre Co are returning, too — including Hayes Theatre Co is director Alexander Berlage (American Psycho — The Musical), Christian Charisiou (The Wedding Singer) as Cry-Baby and Ashleigh Rubenach (Sound of Music, Muriel's Wedding) as Allison. Tickets go on sale at 9am on Tuesday, April 27 for Sydney Opera House Insiders, 9am on Wednesday, April 28 for What's On pre-sales and 9am, Friday, April 30 for the general public. Images: Hayes Theatre Co, Robert Catto.
It premiered at Cannes, will make its Australian debut at the Melbourne International Film Festival and is shaping up to be one of this year's biggest films. We're talking about Quentin Tarantino's Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, which sees the acclaimed filmmaker step back to five decades ago to explore Tinseltown in the summer of 1969 — when the golden age of Hollywood was waning down, and when the Manson Family shocked the world with their horrific murders. Tarantino doesn't just want movie buffs to enjoy his new movie, however. He wants to steep viewers in the whole '60s vibe, including the films that inspired his own film. To help, the writer/director has curated a season of flicks all made in the era, and they'll be screening on SBS' new (and free) World Movies channel in August. The Quentin Tarantino Presents collection is a global project, airing in approximately 20 countries around the world in the lead up to Once Upon a Time in Hollywood's release. In Australia, it kicks off on Monday, August 12 with 1969 comedy Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice, about a couple who decide to become more open in their lives. From there, the season will move on to Cactus Flower with Goldie Hawn, Ingrid Bergman Walter Matthau, as well as the Dennis Hopper-directed and -starring Easy Rider. As for the rest of the bill, it all hails from the late 50s, 60s and early 70s, including Model Shop from French writer-director Jacques Demy, student politics comedy Getting Straight with Elliott Gould, crime flick Hammerhead, and westerns Gunman's Walk and Arizona Raiders. One of the films on the list, 1968's The Wrecking Crew, is a humorous spy flick that co-stars Sharon Tate — who Margot Robbie plays in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. The whole season will set audiences up nicely for Tarantino's latest, which follows TV star Rick Dalton (Leonardo DiCaprio) and his trusty stunt double Cliff Booth (Brad Pitt). Each movie will air with an introduction from the director, who chats with film writer and historian Kim Morgan about how they influenced Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. Check out the Once Upon a Time in Hollywood trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ELeMaP8EPAA SBS World Movies' Quentin Tarantino Presents collection starts airing from 10.30pm on Monday, August 12. For screening times, visit the channel's online program guide. Via Deadline / SBS Movies.
Long before Sculpture by the Sea, SWELL Sculpture Festival and the Lorne Sculpture Biennale, there was the Mildura Sculpture Triennial. It was Australia's first-ever event for large-scale contemporary sculptures — and, in the 1960s and '70s, drew thousands of artists, students and travellers to Mildura, a town on the edge of the outback, 600 kilometres northwest of Melbourne. Inspired by open skies, endless plains and the mighty Murray River, these artists pushed the boundaries of sculpture as we then knew it, delving into earth art, performance, site-specific works and ephemeral installations. Today, the Biennale's legacy lives on in Mildura's art scene — through galleries, public art and big events. In April 2025, English-Australian artist Bruce Munro arrived with Trail of Lights. To experience this legacy for ourselves, we escaped to Mildura for a few days. Along the way, we long lunched on the river, cruised on a 19th century paddle steamer, wandered around pretty satellite villages, stayed at a California-inspired hotel, and ate more than our fair share of juicy oranges — Mildura is famous for growing them. [caption id="attachment_1016549" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image credit: Supplied[/caption] Feasting on Arts, Culture and History Our adventures began on the Murray, which runs through Mildura. Just downstream, it meets the Darling, forming the fourth biggest river system in the world. So, it makes sense that Munro — who loves significant sites from Uluru to Salisbury Cathedral — would choose Mildura for one of his monumental works. We crossed the river at sunset onto Lock Island. As the sky darkened, thousands upon thousands of tiny lights started to flicker among the grass and rocks and trees — each gradually dimming, then brightening, like fireflies. A web of pathways let us walk beside them, while the weir gushed eerily in the distance, then through them, where they seemed to continue beyond the horizon into infinity. Unlike other, more sensational light spectacles, Trail of Lights was a dreamy, meditative experience — made all the more powerful by having the island more or less to ourselves. "People react in all kinds of different ways; some people have told me it made them cry," a hotel owner later told us. Soon, Munro will bring a second work – Fibre Optic Symphonic Orchestra – to the nearby ancient Perry Sandhills. [caption id="attachment_1019599" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image credit: Mildura Arts Centre Facebook[/caption] Lock Island is ten minutes' walk from Mildura Arts Centre, where the Sculpture Park lets you travel back in time to the Triennial. Highlights include Ron Robertson-Swann's Beethoven, Simon Hopkinson and Gary Willis's Work–Art, and John Robinson's Mortality. While you're there, wander through Rio Vista, a 19th century mansion built by WB Chaffey and his wife, Heather. Chaffey and his brother, George, were Canadian engineers who brought irrigation to Mildura, so we have them to thank for most of Australia's supply of grapes and oranges. Other spots to get your art fix in and around town include NAP Contemporary, the Mural Walking Trail, and, for silo art, the nearby rural localities of Werrimull and Walpeup. [caption id="attachment_1019908" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image credit: Discover Mildura[/caption] The Great Outdoors – from the Murray River to Mungo National Park For artists – or for anyone, for that matter – it's impossible to ignore Mildura's extraordinary landscapes. Our explorations started on the Murray River, with a cruise on the paddle steamer P.V. Rothbury. Built in the 1880s, she used to tow wool barges, but now she's dedicated to taking visitors on two-hour trips downstream, where Mildura's township gives way to gumtrees and birdsong. Another way to get to know the river is on foot, following one of many waterfront trails, such as the 3.5-kilometre stroll from the CBD to the Arts Centre or the 4.9-kilometre track to Lock 11. [caption id="attachment_1021367" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image credit: Supplied[/caption] Keen to go further afield? Consider a day trip to Mungo National Park — where Mungo Lady and Mungo Man were found — with Discover Mildura. In the company of a family that's lived locally for generations, you'll travel through the awe-inspiring plains to Mildura's northwest, be treated to homemade morning tea (pray for the banana bread!), walk among the Walls of China (one of NSW's most well-known landmarks), visit Mungo Woolshed and go deep into Mildura's history. Other tours explore wineries, farm gates, nearby villages, the Murray River and more — plus, there's the option of booking a private adventure. [caption id="attachment_1019909" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image credit: Discover Mildura[/caption] Other spectacular stops to add to your itinerary include Orange World (a 50-acre working citrus farm), the Australian Inland Botanic Gardens (for 2,500-year-old trees), Perry Sandhills (400 acres of moving dunes), the Murray-Darling River Junction, the Murray-Sunset National Park (for stunning pink salt lakes) and Hattah-Kulkyne National Park (for freshwater lakes thriving with birdlife). [caption id="attachment_1019930" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image credit: Mildura Boathouse Facebook[/caption] Where to Eat and Drink Having boated and strolled beside the river, we were ready to eat beside it. So, we headed to the Mildura Boathouse Eatery & Bar, a big, bright space splashed in aquamarine and white on the waterfront. For the best views, claim a table on the deck under a big umbrella. Our favourite on the local produce-fuelled menu was the mushies topped with goat's cheese, truffle mousse and poached eggs on bread baked 15 minutes' drive away at Gio's in Redcliff. But the brekkie roll packed with egg, bacon and cheddar and slathered in secret sauce came a close second. [caption id="attachment_1021369" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image credit: Supplied[/caption] Another beautiful place for riverside feasting is Trentham Estate, a winery on the Murray, 20 minutes' drive east of the CBD. Whether you sit in the glass-walled dining room or on the verandah, you'll be gazing over dreamy water views, foregrounded by green grass and shady gums. We settled in for a long lunch, travelling from a baked scallop-prawn tart, to pan-fried salmon with basil pesto on sweet potato mash, to an exquisite lemon meringue tart with berry coulis and vanilla ice cream. To get even closer to the water, opt for a picnic on the lawn, with a cheese platter followed by chocolate fudge cake. Either way, there's plenty to explore on the wine list, from the budget-friendly The Family range to the award-winning Reserves. [caption id="attachment_1019964" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image credit: 400 Gradi website[/caption] Back in town, we loved 400 Gradi, a Melbourne export which opened in Mildura in 2022, for its flash-fried calamari, light prawn and zucchini white pizza, rich mushroom pappardelle and irresistible tiramisu — all served in a slick, grand space, with excellent service. Also worth checking out are SteamPunk and BLK MLK for coffee, Brother Chris and Twenty Seven for brunch, Oak Valley and Capogreco for wine tasting, The Spanish Grill for top-notch steaks, Baghdad Kitchen for charcoal-grilled delights, and, for a legendary multi-course dinner, Stefano's. [caption id="attachment_992001" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image credit: Supplied[/caption] Where to Sleep A drive down Mildura's main street gives the impression the town is home to more motor inns per capita than maybe any other town in Australia. We don't have any stats on that, but we can tell you we were happy with our decision to opt for Kar-Rama. Opened in February 2025, it takes inspiration from California, in its breezy palm trees, white deck chairs and sparkling heated pool. The rooms — decked in pastel shades — come with king-sized beds draped in top-shelf linen, excellent showers, comfy Bemboka robes, a complimentary minibar, Nespresso coffee machines and Leif toiletries. Hot tip: for extra space and light, ask for a room on the first floor and consider paying a bit extra for a deluxe studio. Other inviting sleepovers in and around town include Indulge Apartments (for a touch of luxury), All Seasons Houseboats (for more time on the river) and Mungo Lodge (for deeper exploration of Mungo National Park). [caption id="attachment_992008" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Image credit: Supplied[/caption] Concrete Playground travelled to Mildura with the support of Visit Victoria.
With temperatures beginning to rise, it's an ideal time to hit the venues near the waterside for a drink or a bite to eat. Whether you missed a European holiday or craving to return, feed your appetites for a Euro-summer with a visit to a beachy bar or restaurant for a long lunch or candle-lit dinner on the waterside. As Sydney is surrounded by sea and harbour, we're spoilt for choice. From a waterfront institution in the east known for its Aperol Spritz to a beachfront eatery in the Shire, here are the top spots you should visit for summer sunset sips and snacks in Sydney.
You may have 'going to the snow' on your list of winter things to do (and for obvious reasons why) but despite the name, the Snowy Mountains also has plenty to do outside of the chilly season. There are many adventures to take and some highly picturesque hikes to discover, plus there's a heap of regional epicurean delights to try. A five hours' road trip from Sydney, the Snowy Mountains is home to some of Australia's best snowfields, sure. But there's so much more to discover in the region when the days are warmer and the region flourishes. There are excellent hikes and plenty of itineraries to suit your interests. Here, we've got some top ways to eat and drink your way through the area all year round. [caption id="attachment_659674" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Destination NSW.[/caption] WINES IN COOL CLIMES Tumbarumba, located in the foothills of the Snowy Mountains, is one of Australia's premium, though lesser-known, cool climate wine regions. It supplies grapes to some of the award-winning and recognisable wine brands in Australia. Want to try the wine that was awarded New South Wales' best sparkling in 2017? Then head to Courabyra Wines cellar door for a vineyard tour and wine tasting. Open Thursday to Monday, the cellar door's restaurant focuses on seasonal, local produce paired with sparkling, chardonnay and pinot noir from the vines a few paces away. For those wanting to really immerse themselves in a vinous adventure, private vineyard tours can be organised in advance with owner Cathy who will guide you through the history of the region — with a full glass of wine in your hand. SCHNAPPS FROM THE AUSSIE ALPS To have a real taste of the Australian Alps, head to Wildbrumby on the Alpine Way towards Thredbo to try its range of Snowy Mountains spirits. Australia's only schnapps distillery uses pure mountain water and homegrown organic fruit and botanicals. Combining traditional European methods with its organic Australian produce, the distillery is consistently innovating and pushing the boundaries with its flavours. It's also created a high-proof vodka, the Spirit of Chardonnay varietal and an award-winning gin. But the true heart of the operation lies in the schnapps, where Wildbrumby founders Brad and Monika Spalding use Monika's grandfather's original Austrian distilling recipe. Sourcing organic fruit from their neighbouring farm, they crush apples, pears, berries, stone fruit and the like into a pulp and ferment it in temperature-controlled vats for four weeks. The fermented pulp is then distilled, leaving a spirit roughly 80- to 90-percent in alcohol. This is then blended down with pristine alpine water and bottled onsite. Wildbrumby has daily al fresco tastings of the entire range at their lovely country restaurant in the warmer months, which has outdoor dining as well. There's also an onsite shop where you can buy your favourite flavours of schnapps to bring home. PALE ALE AT HIGH ALTITUDES Visit Australia's first mountain brewpub Kosciuszko Brewery at the Banjo Paterson Inn in Jindabyne. With the 600-litre brewing tanks directly underneath the bar, it's here where you'll get the freshest pour of the pub standard. As an added bonus, there is staff on hand to take you on a tour of the brewery so you can see the whole process of how their iconic brew is made. Made from pale and Munich malts, and brewed with Tassie Galaxy hops, the beer's malty flavours and fruity hop finish make it a good drop for any season. After a long day of exploring, it's an excellent spot to wind up your day with a couple of brews before tucking yourself in for the night down the hallway in the Banjo Paterson Inn. COOKIES 1020 METRES UP If eating at high altitudes is more your thing, grab a snack at 1020 meters above sea level at Snowy Mountains Cookies in Jindabyne. These cookie experts make all kinds of treats, from your favourites like ANZACs and triple chocolate to more unique flavours like spiced caramel and date, coconut and even savoury flavours. If you prefer salty over sweet, opt for their bite-sized rosemary and parmesan, crispy corn and chilli, cheese and native nigella seed cookies. Stock up the car with goodies to take home, but don't be surprised if you eat all your snacks on the trip home. APPLES FRESH FROM THE ORCHARD Every autumn, the annual Batlow Ciderfest fetes the harvest of one of Australia's most celebrated apple-growing towns. At the big street party, you'll be able to try an array of Batlow's boutique ciders alongside other regional ciders, craft beers and wines. You can also visit the various orchards to pick your own produce as well as try apples in every conceivable way — crumble, pie, toffee, chutney. Not visiting during May? That's okay, a lot of the growers and producers hold daily apple hunts for visitors to come and pick their own produce and learn more about the history of Batlow and the apple production in the region. Discover all that the Snowy Mountains has to offer outside of winter months, from jam-packed adventures to the most picturesque hikes and so much more.
The man who described Tony Abbott as “an absolute raving lunatic” is headed to Australia once again. A comedian, film star, TV host, author and wannabe revolutionary, Russell Brand will no doubt deliver his signature mix of politics and profanity when he tours around the country this October. Coming to the Sydney Opera House as part of Just for Laughs, Brand’s new stand-up show is titled Trew World Order after his YouTube series The Trews. It's described as “a rabble-rousing stab at creating, through the power of the crowd, a Trew World Order.” The comedian turned political activist has long been a divisive figure in the British media, seeming to actively seek out controversy wherever he can. He’s also been highly critical of Australia’s immigration policy, and recently threatened to try and “gay marry” Abbott while he was prime minister. Now that would be a hell of a show. Russell Brand also has a sold-out performance at the Sydney Opera House on October 23.
After closing its doors in 2016, the Theatre Royal is set to reopen from August 2021, with the NSW Government signing over a 55-year lease to global company Trafalgar Entertainment (TE). The 1100-seat Theatre Royal is one of Australia's oldest theatres, dating back to the 1870s. But most of us will know it in its current form, reopened in the 1970s and designed by famed Australian architect Harry Seidler as a replacement for the old theatre that was demolished when the MLC Centre was built. After four years of disuse, the NSW Government together with Dexus (owner of the MLC building) have handed over the keys to the space with hopes of encouraging more big-name musical productions to the harbour city. While Sydney nabbed the 2021 production of Hamilton, it lost Harry Potter and the Cursed Child to Melbourne, which one theatre producer put down to Sydney's "lack of a mid-to-large size venue". [caption id="attachment_769687" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Trafalgar Entertainment's 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show'.[/caption] Jointly run by famed British theatre impresarios Sir Howard Panter and Dame Rosemary Squire, TE is promising to change this with its "Sydney gets it first" approach to programming of "first-class productions". Known for producing award-winning musicals and shows, such as The King and I, The Rocky Horror Show and War House, which have performed at London's West End and Melbourne's National Theatre, the company will also transform Theatre Royal into a live-streaming content hub and home to its performing arts school Stagecoach. In terms of physical changes, TE plans to renovate the theatre's interiors to "international standards", with the company telling the SMH these would involve "extensive renovations to the theatre's public areas, seating and amenities, as well as backstage". The COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc on Australia's arts scene — with Carriageworks entering voluntary administration earlier this week — but TE's Panter and Squire hope the revival of the Theatre Royal will play a small part in helping the industry rebuild. "Like so many, our industry is enduring highly challenging circumstances as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic," the duo said in a statement. "However, looking to the future, we believe that live entertainment and the creative industries will have a crucial part to play in recovery and renewal." The Theatre Royal is slated to reopen under Trafalgar Entertainment in August 2021. Top image: An artist's impression of Theatre Royal.
The beloved Halal Snack Pack is an unrivalled treat. HSP's have spawned nationwide appreciation groups in pursuit of the city's best pile of meat and chips — and now, Enmore Turkish mainstay Stanbuli is throwing its hat in the ring for the best inner west HSP. The new menu item sees a small mountain of Stanbuli's tender marinated chicken on a pile of golden-brown chicken-salted chips, topped with the 'Holy Trinity' of sauces: chilli, garlic and barbecue. If you're vegetarian, never fear, the Enmore Road favourite is also serving up a new vego offering that will satisfy any craving for sauce-heavy potato. The kumpir is a street-style baked potato overflowing with butter, yoghurt cream, pickled cabbage, corn and sauce, and has been added to the menu alongside the chicken snack pack. Both menu items are part of Stanbuli's new $38 per person takeaway banquet menu. The affordable lockdown feast is available on Friday and Saturday from 5pm–7.30pm and comes with the likes of bread, hummus, fried vegetable salad, the loaded kumpir and lamb and potato kofte or braised peas. From there, you can add on the HSP as well as pickled octopus salad, or sumac and honey glazed ribs, depending on how extravagant a meal you have in mind. The banquet can be ordered via Bopple, just leave 45mins for the Stanbuli team to prepare before you swing by to pick up your dinner. Stanbuli is located at 135 Enmore Road, Enmore. It's open from 5pm Friday and Saturday. To pre order during the week, contact Stanbuli at enquiries@stanbuli.com.au.
Last year, Plan International launched an interactive map for Sydney women to report incidents of street harassment. Thousands of Sydney girls and women used it to drop pins on locations around the city — either 'good' for where they felt safe, or 'bad' for where they felt threatened. Now, that data has been pulled and analysed for a new global report titled Unsafe on the Streets, which shines a spotlight on the rates of street harassment experienced by women across the world. It was based on 750 shared experiences from women in Lima, Delhi, Kampala and Madrid, as well as our own harbour city. The local version of the Free To Be map — which found that 90 percent of women have felt unsafe in Sydney at night — identified three main high-traffic areas where women most commonly felt unsafe: Newtown's King Street, Central Station and nearby Belmore Park, and the area around Hyde Park and Town Hall. On the Sydney map, a total of 1175 pins referenced incidents of sexual harassment, with 176 of those highlighting harassment by a group. Overall, the survey showed the most common harassment by far was the verbal kind, including aggressive threats and catcalling. One 18-year-old Sydney women shared that she'd been catcalled by construction workers on her way to a job interview, saying that it 'threw her off' for the rest of the day, as "being catcalled makes you want to cover yourself in heaps of layers and hide". Another recalled how she was followed by two young unknown men in a car, while walking home from a party. While most of the map participants dropped pins to highlight unsafe areas, about one quarter identified 'good' spots, based on things like busyness, adequate lighting and the presence of security or police. Three of the safest spots — where the good pins outnumbered the bad — have been identified as the UNSW Kensington campus, the area surrounding Circular Quay and the Royal Botanic Gardens, and McIver's Ladies Baths in Coogee, which happens to be one of the only female-only spaces in the city. One commenter even called it the 'safest and best place to be a woman in Sydney'. Of the Sydney women surveyed, 43 percent were aged between 21 and 25, with a further 26 percent between 16 and 20. Over a third of the reported incidents occurred late at night, with places like bus stops and outside school gates proving prime spots for harassment. You can read the full Unsafe On The Streets report here, and the Sydney-specific report here.
Drums are the world's oldest musical instrument, though they are constantly underappreciated. Their full awesomeness is only realised when they're laying down the rhythm for other instruments, and they're not allowed at band practice because you can't restrain their sonic power without using those lame pads. Your average stage set-up banishes the drums to the back corners of the stage and — being an instrument that requires hard physical work — they're usually teamed with the largest, hairiest, sweatiest member of the band. Sydney-based multi-creative Max Doyle is bringing drums out of the back corners of the stage in his latest project, aptly titled 'Drums'. Being a musician himself — Doyle fronts local drone-pop band Songs when he's not shooting Vogue covers, publishing Doingbird, making films or coaching girls' soccer — he's paying his dues to the ubiquitous percussion tool by documenting how a drum kit survives the thrashings and dripping man sweat of a gig. The drums kits in the photographs were taken while Doyle was on tour with Songs last year, each picture snapped moments before the band performed. The opening night of the exhibition also featured solo work by local drummers Nick Norton, Alex Gilles and Susie Patten, who kept partial nudity and excessive sweating to a gallery-friendly minimum. Image: The Workers Club Melb, Max Doyle, 2009
If the only thing stopping you from existing entirely on fried chicken is the threat of skyrocketing cholesterol levels and less-than-healthy arteries, the soon-to-launch Goobne is sure to take your fancy. The legendary Korean chicken chain is known for dishing up a slightly more virtuous spin on crispy chook, and it's launched its first Aussie store. Making its home within the Darling Square food precinct, this Sydney flagship caters to those chicken cravings without undoing too many efforts at the gym. Goobne's signature bird has the kind of crisp skin you dream about, but because it's oven-roasted without any oil, it's also a whole lot healthier than its fried counterparts. There are seven varieties of saucy roast chicken to choose from, including black pepper, a fruity soy and garlic number, and the fiery Volcano. You'll also find dishes like the UFO Fondue Chicken, which sees drumsticks scooped through a pool of rich melted cheese. The menu also stars a swag of fried rice creations, noodle dishes and sides, including the signature Goobne egg rolls that come topped with various house-made sauces. And, potentially most excitingly, everything can be ordered directly to your table using your smartphone. Meanwhile, a lineup of K-razy Cocktails lives up to its name, with concoctions like the vibrant blue Sharknado and the Corona-Rita — a tequila on the rocks crowned with an upside down stubby of Corona. Find Goobne at Darling Square, 35 Tumbalong Boulevard, Haymarket. It's open from 11.30am until late every day. Updated: December 2, 2019.
Sandwiches are not a traditional Japanese snack, but a dish adopted from Western cuisines and reinvented with incredibly tasty results. The tamago sando found at Japanese convenience stores is one notable result of this confluence of cultures, another is the katsu sando. It's not a new invention, supposedly it first appeared on the menu of a Tokyo restaurant called Rengatei back in 1899, but the fried pork sanga is very hot right now in Sydney. A typical katsu sando features a panko-crumbed pork cutlet sandwiched between two pieces of soft (crustless) white bread alongside cabbage, sweet tonkatsu sauce and kewpie mayo, but each version mentioned below has a slight variation. So, have a read, pick your favourite and head out for lunch — or, maybe, make your way through all seven.
Heaps Gay will be painting the town rainbow at a massive birthday bash that is sure to send shockwaves across the city. The festivities will feature three stages at White Bay Power Station in celebration not only of the LGTBQIA+ party starters' 11th birthday, but also love, joy, inclusivity and self-expression. Heaps Gay found its humble beginnings at the Gladstone Hotel in 2013. "At the time, our queer space was super different, a lot more segregated," says founder Kat Dopper. "There were lesbian parties like girlthing and then clubs on Oxford Street that were primarily for gay men. I wanted to start a party that was super inclusive." In search of a space to make queer friends, Dopper started Heaps Gay with a focus on LGBTQIA+ music and art. Eleven years on, Heaps Gay has thrown some of Sydney's most popular queer parties. Their 10th birthday bonanza was hosted on the shores of Sydney Harbour with Spice Girl Mel C as DJ, and past venues have included the Sydney Tower Eye and Powerhouse Museum. However, Dopper asserts this year's will be their most dynamic venue to date. Once a functioning power station with a history going back more than a century, White Bay now plays home to major gatherings with takeovers from nightlife icons like Ministry of Sound. Now, it's Heaps Gay's turn. The industrial machinery and cavernous halls of White Bay Power Station are being given the ultimate makeover, complete with art installations to bring much needed colour to the brick structure. Heaps Gay will also be bringing in the stars of the party world to turn up the tunes and keep the energy alive. Bimini – of Drag Race UK fame – will be joined by fellow Ru Girl Gottmik, with both DJing sets on the night; don't worry, you'll get to see them perform live as well. Other icons like Princess Superstar, Jaguar and Kim Ann Foxman will deliver sensational sets, and stick around for loads more Australian artists throughout the night. White Bay Power Station wasn't enough for you? Heaps Gay will be throwing an afterparty at The Lord Gladstone, the original location of the long standing institution. Eleven years to the day, they will be recreating their first party with a sweaty dance floor, club vibes and cheap beer, all to a soundtrack of special DJ set from Bimini. "I've been so lucky to create a space for the community for an entire decade," says Dopper. "I had the most amazing time and some wonderful experiences."
If you'd prefer to explore the Port Stephens region on two wheels than by foot, you're in luck. A bunch of shared pathways exist across the region that'll take you along the coast and through bushland, parks and the town streets. The best 'bang for your buck', so to speak (it's actually free), is the Nelson Bay to Fingal Bay Cycleway, which links three of the region's communities via an eight-kilometre route of shared and on-road paths. Starting at Dutchmans Beach, you'll wind your way through the Nelson Bay foreshore and along the coast past Neil Caroll Rotary Park. You'll then spend some time pedalling on the road through to Shoal Bay before arriving in Fingal Bay. Here, you find plenty of facilities to enjoy, including picnic spots, a patrolled surf beach and the sandy bank of Fingal Spit. You can no longer pass over the sand spit to Fingal Island, but it is accessible by boat. Image: Fingal Spit via Destination NSW
Sydney has been teased with the prospect of having its own Taco Bell for over a year now. But, after a much-anticipated opening up in Newcastle last month, it's finally here. From 11am, Tuesday, December 17, you'll be able to waltz into Blacktown's Westpoint shopping centre and grab a Cheesy Chipotle Burrito, Crunchy Taco or a big ol' frozen margarita. While it is Taco Bell's third attempted foray into the Australian market — the chain tried to launch here in 1981 (and was then taken to court by Sydney store Taco Bell's Casa) and again in 1997, but both attempts were unsuccessful and the brand withdrew — this time, the US chain seems to be doing things seriously. It launched its first NSW store in Jesmond last month and opened one (and soon a second) in Melbourne — and that's in addition to the seven Queensland locations that've popped up in the last two years. Going by the Newcastle menu, we can safely assume that quesadillas, burritos, Crunchwraps, nachos, power bowls and, of course, tacos (including the Gordita Crunch with both a crunchy and soft tortilla) are all on the lineup. It looks to be affordable, too, with $2.50 tacos, $3.50 mini quesadillas, $3 churros, $4 burritos and $3 cinnamon twists. And there's booze, including frozen margs and Coronas and a bit of local flavour thanks to Coopers Light and Young Henrys pale ale. [caption id="attachment_753094" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Taco Bell Newcastle[/caption] If you manage to make it to Blacktown for opening day, you can snag yourself some limited-edition merch and one person will score free tacos for a year. Keep an eye on the Taco Bell Facebook page for upcoming freebies and limited-edition menus, too. It won't stop there, either, with Taco Bell saying it'll open a minimum of 40 stores across NSW and the ACT in the next five years. We'll let you know when anymore locations are announced. Find Taco Bell at Westpoint, 17 Patrick Street, Blacktown from 11am on Tuesday, December 17. Top image: Taco Bell Robina by Hugo Nobay.
Returning for its 14th edition, All About Women will take over the Sydney Opera House once more, offering a prodigious lineup of local and globally renowned speakers. Held on International Women's Day — Sunday, March 8 — this buzzy experience exploring gender, justice and equality has just revealed its first four names, bound to inspire and inform. These include the former Prime Minister of New Zealand, Jacinda Ardern, who'll open up about becoming the world's youngest female head of government and what it takes to leave behind a legacy of radical empathy. Meanwhile, London-born literary powerhouse Zadie Smith will unpack our present-day cultural chaos and explain why feed-friendly takes must be resisted. Audiences will also hear from admired BBC journalist Emily Maitlis, best known for her infamous interview with then-Prince Andrew, which helped kick-start the Duke of York's downfall. Hear how she challenges power and privilege. Plus, Moroccan-American author Laila Lalami will discuss her prescient new novel, The Dream Hotel, where AI punishes people for "potential crimes." For Melbourne-based fans, there's the chance to catch three of these incredible speakers at The Wheeler Centre. Laila Lalami will dissect surveillance culture on Wednesday, March 4, before Emily Maitlis reflects on her remarkable career on Thursday, March 5. Finally, Zadie Smith will discuss her new essay collection, Dead and Alive, on Tuesday, March 10. Images: Jaimi Joy / Cassandra Hannagan.
Waverley residents — here's something to celebrate: an ambitious Italian restaurant spearheaded by Nigel Ward is set to arrive on Bronte Road within the next six months. The accomplished Sydney chef (ex-Uccello, ex-10 William St) and former owner of Darlinghurst favourite, Sagra, has found a home for his new project in Charing Cross, Australia's second-oldest shopping strip. Named after the Italian tradition of passeggiata, the renovated building will boast three distinct culinary spaces. Passeggiata is a type of unhurried, leisurely stroll you take with your family after a hearty meal. "After a big long lunch, everyone puts on their suits and their Sunday best and they all go out to the town square and walk around real slow, go have some gelato, or have a little drink somewhere," Ward explains. "Nobody's in too much of a hurry, the intention is to ... slow down and enjoy the little qualities of life." It's this kind of relaxed energy that he wants to emulate in his new venture. "I hope when people come here [that] they're not coming with an out time. They just want to come and enjoy themselves and take their time, get a nice bottle of wine [and] eat lots of food," he says. Passeggiata will serve hyper-seasonal Italian dishes, local and international wines made from 100 percent Italian varietals and weekly set menus. Downstairs will serve as the main dining room — a 40-seat venue with comfortable chairs, music that isn't too loud and a menu that champions a progressive spin on classic Italian dishes. View this post on Instagram A post shared by wine bar l restaurant l garden (@passeggiata_au) Upstairs will play host to a smaller 30-seat dining room where Ward and his team will host four-course dinners for groups on Friday and Saturday night. The plan spans a continually rotating set menu priced at around $75 per person. "It might change halfway through the night," he says. "You can just go with a big group of people, order some nice wine and leave it over to us." The final element of Passeggiata is a 24-seat outdoor area open for long Tuscan-style Sunday lunches. The sunny courtyard will boast its own herb and veggie garden, and Ward is in the process of building an in-house bakery in the space. Drawing on the history of the building and taking inspiration from 1970s Rome, the interior of Passeggiata will be designed by Tim Leveson. Towering archways complemented by exposed brickwork, clean brass, muted oak and a moody mustard colour palette is expected to feature throughout the venue. An old pressed metal ceiling and fireplace is also promised. The building is still under construction but Ward is aiming to open all three areas simultaneously, depending on Sydney's venue restrictions and the availability of hospitality workers come summer. To keep up with its progress you can follow along at Passeggiata's Instagram account. "I'm building the restaurant I want to go to," Ward says. "This is it for me. I've bought the building, I want to be here for 30 years. I want this to be the Lucio's of the 21st century." View this post on Instagram A post shared by wine bar l restaurant l garden (@passeggiata_au) Nigel Ward's Passeggiata is set to open at 318 Bronte Road, Waverley between late 2021 and early 2022.
Kano — "a computer anyone can make" — will soon be a widespread reality, following a Kickstarter campaign that's raised more than US$1 million. London-based tech geniuses Alex and Jonathan came up with the concept about a year ago. They felt that, in comparison with the toys they had growing up, today’s technology is inaccessible. Alex’s seven-year-old cousin, Micah, clarified the issue — and set the challenge — when he asked why couldn’t computers be “as simple and fun as lego”? Over the following 12 months, Alex and Jonathan travelled the world, talking to children, parents, educators and artists. All the research led to the development of Kano. According to Alex, "It’s based on three principles — simple steps, storytelling, physical computing — and tying them all together, with a sense of play and exploration.” Kano arrives in the consumer’s hands as a kit. Starting from scratch, the user builds the computer, powered by Raspberry Pi, as well as a speaker, a wireless server, HD video, music, and a custom-designed case. A basic introduction to coding enables the step-by-step construction of simple games such as Pong and Snake, as well as the modification of more complex games like Minecraft. Beyond that, the possibilities are limited only by the user’s imagination. Kano is open source, so there’s access to an abundance of software. Back in May, Alex, Jonathan and their team released a run of 200 prototypes, which sold out quickly and inspired plenty of positive reviews. When it came to expanding their scope, they turned to Kickstarter. Upon going live last month, the campaign achieved its initial goal of US$100,000 within 18 hours. Since then, a stretch goal of US$1 million has been conquered. Open until December 19, the campaign is still accepting donations of $119, which buys a Kano kit.
Remember those good old days when you could buy a ticket to the movies and get change from a $10 note? It feels like something that died with Y2K... But you'd be wrong. If you're someone who isn't so keen on spending a whole week's wages on a movie ticket and a small popcorn, you're in luck. At Campbelltown's Dumaresq Cinemas, you can buy tickets to all the latest films for $7.50, which means enough change to buy one of those fancy choc tops. The old-school budget cinema prides itself on being a theatre you can take the whole family without having to remortgage your house. To clarify, the anachronistic rate of $7.50 per ticket is available all day everyday.
First, it's the low, flat tone in his voice that does it. Then, it's the anxious but determined glint in his eye. It only takes a few seconds of screen time, a couple of words and a specific expression, for Joseph Gordon-Levitt to make his portrayal of Edward Snowden worth watching. He's the glare, grit, heart and soul of Snowden, from director Oliver Stone. Even as the filmmaker takes a clear-cut stance about the man considered a hero by some and a traitor by others, Gordon-Levitt brings the required conflict and complexity to the role. Snowden begins in June 2013, in a hotel room in Hong Kong, with one of the most significant and suspenseful events in recent history. The NSA contractor is meeting with filmmaker Laura Poitras (Melissa Leo) and journalists Glenn Greenwald (Zachary Quinto) and Ewen MacAskill (Tom Wilkinson), providing them with a wealth of documents about the US government's secret surveillance regime. The scene should feel familiar, particularly among viewers who have seen Poitras' Academy Award-winning documentary Citizenfour. Stone recreates parts of her excellent film as a starting point and a framing device, before setting out to unpack what it was that compelled Snowden to do what he did. What follows is a dramatic retelling that incorporates much of what you might have read in newspaper headlines, along with snippets of Snowden's life including his rocky relationship with his girlfriend Lindsay Mills (Shailene Woodley). He excels during his training, and works his way through various intelligence postings around the world. But with each new task, he grows increasingly concerned about America's intrusive espionage activities, and disillusioned with the country he had always believed in. It's an intricate story — and a fascinating one. Stone does an adequate job jumping between multiple time frames, weaving three distinct narrative threads and crafting a slick feature in the process. Yet it's the central performance — along with the inherently gripping subject matter — that keeps Snowden tense and thrilling. As the film cycles through relatively routine biopic territory, Gordon-Levitt even manages to make the frequent sight of searching through files and staring out of windows seem compelling. Unfortunately, while JG-L's portrayal is spot-on, it hurts that the narrative and filmmaking all feels so standard and straightforward. Indeed, it's the feature's conventional nature that never wholly satisfies, even if the story it relates remains engrossing. Snowden is filled with questions, but they're ones that the director quickly offers his own easy, ready-made answers to. On the whole, this is a far less probing effort than Stone's best – think Platoon, Wall Street and JFK. That said, with World Trade Centre, Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps and Savages among his recent output, Snowden is his best film in some time, as well as his most topical. And if nothing else, it also gifts audiences a rare treat: Nicolas Cage actually acting — rather than chewing the scenery — as one of Snowden's early mentors.
When Sydney scored an expansive coastal walk spanning from Bondi to Manly, it was a huge addition to the city, particularly if you like putting one foot in front of the other while soaking in stellar waterside sights. Soon, you'll have another option, too: a new 91-kilometre shared — and continuous — pathway running from the Sydney Opera House to Parramatta. The idea was first proposed by The McKell Institute, a think tank aligned with Labor, back in 2020. The same year, it was adopted by by then-New South Wales Treasurer and now-Premier Dominic Perrottet, with $500,000 funded in the 2020-21 NSW budget to explore moving ahead. Now, current Treasurer Matt Kean and Minister for Infrastructure, Cities and Active Transport Rob Stokes have confirmed that the walkway is in the works — and yes, it's as huge as it sounds. The NSW Government will put $60 million towards the pathway, which has been dubbed the Parramatta to Sydney Foreshore Link, and will be able to be used by both pedestrians and cyclists. It'll start by the harbour and end at Parramatta Park — or vice versa, depending on which direction you're heading. In the process, it'll become one of the city's longest transport connections, spanning a whopping 18 suburbs. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rob Stokes MP (@robstokesmp) Some existing pathways will be included in the overall track, but others will need to be built. Indeed, part of the funds will go towards working out how to make currently inaccessible foreshore sections accessible. That new stack of cash for the Foreshore Link will be committed in the 2022-23 budget, although exactly when you'll be able to get moseying hasn't yet been revealed. Also included in that $60 million: design work, building on the initial feasibility study and prioritising works in consultation with councils. Whenever it comes to fruition, stunning views will be a big feature, naturally. "This pathway will take in some of our most spectacular sights and unlock the incredible lifestyle and accessibility opportunities the route offers for the benefit of locals and visitors," said Kean, announcing the news. "Since 1811. our city's prosperity has been propelled by road and rail connections between the settlements of Sydney and Parramatta. This new connection will allow walking and cycling trips to proliferate, making lives easier, healthier and more enjoyable for locals, commuters and visitors for centuries to come," added Stokes. For more information about the Parramatta to Sydney Foreshore Link, head to the NSW Government website.
For the past 14 years, the seedy side of Albuquerque, New Mexico has never been far from screens, first courtesy of Breaking Bad and then via its prequel spinoff series Better Call Saul. A Breaking Bad Netflix movie, El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie, also popped up in 2019, because viewers just haven't been able to get enough of Walter White (Bryan Cranston, Your Honor), Jesse Pinkman (Aaron Paul, Westworld), Saul Goodman (Bob Odenkirk, Nobody), Mike Ehrmantrout (Jonathan Banks, The Commuter) and Gus Fring (Giancarlo Esposito, The Boys). Soon, however, this almost decade-and-a-half run of all things Breaking Bad-related will hit an end, with Better Call Saul about to air its last episodes. Perhaps more spinoffs will come. Fingers crossed that's the case. American network AMC, which airs both shows, has said it is open to it. But unlike when the OG series ended, viewers don't have a confirmed new date with the Breaking Bad universe in their future. That means that a big goodbye is coming audiences' way, and soon — and the trailer for the second half of Better Call Saul's sixth and last season knows it. The just-dropped 52-second clip is filled with familiar places from Saul Goodman's life (and from his time as Jimmy McGill, when he was using his birth name, too), all given the black-and-white treatment that the series has reserved for its flashes forwards and backwards over the years. Check out the trailer below: The locations featured have all played a big part in the story so far — and the melancholy mood certainly sets the tone for the episodes to come. After the first seven instalments in season six started airing back in April, the final six will begin showing weekly from Tuesday, July 12 in Australia and New Zealand. No one should've been expecting a happy ending anyway. We already know where Saul's story takes him next, because we've seen Breaking Bad. Indeed, Better Call Saul remains television's greatest tragedy, because it makes its viewers desperately hope that things turn out better for its eponymous figure than we know they will — so we watch his dreams crumble, his ethics slide, and his full transformation from earnest and legitimate lawyer to happily getting shady. The new trailer doesn't tease much in the way of narrative, but it does also feature Saul saying "let justice be done till the heavens fall". One time only. #BetterCallSaul pic.twitter.com/QmBFBbUENS — Better Call Saul (@BetterCallSaul) June 28, 2022 If you're keen on a few more sneak peeks at the end of season six — which'll see the return of Walt and Jesse in some capacity — Better Call Saul has also been dropping teasers via social media. There's a lot to wrap up, given that former cop-turned-private investigator, fixer, cleaner and hitman Ehrmantrout, Los Pollos Hermanos owner Fring and drug kingpin Hector Salamanca (Mark Margolis, My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2) are also key parts of Better Call Saul's story — and Saul's partner and fellow lawyer Kim Wexler (Rhea Seehorn, Veep), too. Exactly how the latter's tale will end is the biggest source of tension, given that Kim wasn't ever in Breaking Bad. And after the way Better Call Saul's first seven season-six episodes played out, that stress definitely hasn't subsided. Take the oath. #BetterCallSaul pic.twitter.com/Cs2y0BLkFi — Better Call Saul (@BetterCallSaul) June 14, 2022 The second half of Better Call Saul season six starts streaming in Australia via Stan and New Zealand via Neon from Tuesday, July 12. Images: Greg Lewis/AMC/Sony Pictures Television.
In the time since Sydney's lockout laws came into effect, many venues in the lockout zone have closed — but quite a few have found new life too. Club 77 was resurrected in early 2016, The Flinders reopened under new management and Flamingo Lounge took over the old Hugos space late last year. Now, Kit & Kaboodle has been given a revamp. The bar — located on level two of the old Sugarmill Hotel, which became the Potts Point Hotel under new ownership last year — is set to open this month as Boogie Mountain, a self-indulgent venue dedicated to rock and roll. The bar takes its name from a commune set in 1970s Arizona desert and boasts a passion for the hedonistic. Think luxe red velvet lounges and hidden timber-panelled nooks, plus magnums of rosé and decadent lobster poutine. "The introduction of Boogie Mountain is about creating something unique, where patrons can relate to the venues offerings," says owner John Duncan. "We are very excited to give the space a new lease on life, with Boogie Mountain adding a great new option to Sydney's late night scene." It's open Thursday through Saturday only, with weekend hours offering lock-in until 3.30am (as long as you're inside by 2am, of course). Thursdays will see vinyls on the turntable and all-you-can-eat poutine specials on offer, too. You can expect non-stop tunes all night, with the rock soundtrack including the likes of Talking Heads and Iggy Pop. When you're not getting your boogie on, it's got classic American cocktails, an all-Australian wine list and craft beer tinnies to accompany those aforementioned magnums. For food, the poutine menu is joined by share plates like saffron risotto 'disco balls' and cheese boards, along with a post-midnight snacks menu of burgers, fries and apple pie. "We wanted to create a space that celebrated what Sydney was always about — a youthful loss of innocence, a sense of adventure, simple pleasures and free spirit," says designer Byron Georgouras. Images: Dominic Loneragan
Everyone loves a good ol' fashioned housewarming. And after two wildly successful Melbourne events in 2011 and 2012, The Design Files has again opened its ridiculously well-designed doors to the general public — this time in Sydney. To be held in a beautiful residential property, The Design Files Open House will be an interactive and engaging retail experience — a stylised Australian home where everything is for sale. On offer is a massive range of linen, artwork, books, lighting, furniture and kitchenware. Just see it in the home environment, then buy it for your own. The pop-up event will be active for four days only in Sydney's Surry Hills. The initiative — led by The Design Files Blog creator, Lucy Feagins — is a unique concept, which encapsulates the imagination and style of thousands of design enthusiasts, supported by the immense readership of the popular website. The Design Files Open House will be open from 10am to 5pm daily.
You don't play a character for almost 25 years if you're not fond of them. Renée Zellweger was nominated for her first Academy Award for portraying Bridget Jones — stepping into her shoes, slipping into her skirt and seesawing between her feuding romantic options, too — in 2001's Bridget Jones's Diary. Thanks to 2004's Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason, 2016's Bridget Jones's Baby and now 2025's Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy, she's returned to the part three times since. "Personally, I couldn't be luckier," Zellweger tells Concrete Playground about her time in the role over more than two decades, a stint that's seen the films take Bridget from a single thirtysomething scribbling her yearning for love in her journal to a widowed single mother in her 50s. The franchise's namesake was initially born in text, in an anonymous London newspaper column penned by Helen Fielding. Then, the author took the unlucky-in-love figure to bookshelves. Bridget now feels equally as tied to Zellweger, though, even if the Cold Mountain and Judy Oscar-winner herself sends the credit for the character's success Fielding's way. "It's a testament to Helen's talent, really, and what she's mined in these characters and these experiences that are universally relatable," she advises. Although all things Bridget Jones struck a chord on the page before lighting up the screen, in cinema the series has achieved a rare feat. Film franchises about everyday women aren't common — let alone a film franchise about an everyday woman who is permitted to go where life takes her over more than two decades, delights, dramas, joys, chaos and all, and who has been allowed to age from her 30s to her 50s over that time. Across its first three flicks alone, before Mad About the Boy reached picture palaces — including Down Under from Thursday, February 13 — the saga has earned over three-quarters of a billion dollars. In Bridget Jones's Diary, Bridget's potential solutions to her singledom were her womanising boss Daniel Cleaver (Hugh Grant, Heretic) and buttoned-up barrister Mark Darcy (Colin Firth, Lockerbie) — and, although the picture ended with her happily in the latter's arms, The Edge of Reason repeated the same love triangle. Daniel was lost, presumed dead, in Bridget Jones's Baby, so American entrepreneur Jack Qwant (Patrick Dempsey, Dexter: Original Sin) battled with Mark for her affections, and to discover who had fathered her child. In what's being presented as the franchise's final entry, and is certainly its most moving even while remaining delightfully funny, Daniel is back and firmly now a trusted friend, which Bridget needs after Mark's passing. As Mad About the Boy's love interests, then, enter Chiwetel Ejiofor (Venom: The Last Dance) as Mr Wallaker and Leo Woodall (Prime Target) as Roxster. As calm as Bridget is usually chaotic, Mr Wallaker is a teacher at the school attended by her children Billy (Casper Knopf, Rough Diamonds) and Mabel (debutant Mila Jankovic) — and, like the man that's so deeply mourned throughout the movie, his bond with everyone's favourite British rom-com heroine takes time to kick in. Twenty-nine-year-old park ranger Roxster first meets Bridget in Mr Wallaker's company, after she gets herself stuck in a tree trying to get her kids out of it. With Ejiofor and Woodall in the parts, the fourth Bridget Jones flick has enlisted more fans. "I'd always loved the films and so it was really lovely to be asked to join," Ejiofor explains. Of course, courtesy of Love Actually, the 12 Years a Slave BAFTA-winner and Oscar-nominee — and star of everything from Dirty Pretty Things, Kinky Boots and Children of Men to the Doctor Strange movies, The Old Guard and the TV version of The Man Who Fell to Earth — already had a widely loved English romantic comedy on his resume. "It's a tremendous gift to get to join this party," notes Woodall, who finds himself in his third big-name project in three years with an already-existing fanbase. No one will ever forget his turn in the second season of The White Lotus; then came his engaging performance in the television adaptation of One Day. We also chatted with Zellweger about one of the key aspects of returning to play Bridget again and again and again: that she's the same person in each film but also not, because we all change as our lives change and we get older. Ejiofor told us about portraying a character with parallels to Mark, too, and Woodall about his run of standout roles in well-known small- and big-screen series. On How Zellweger Is Playing the Same Character Each Time That She Steps Into Bridget's Shoes — But She's Also Not, Because Bridget Changes as Her Life Changes Renée: "I love that you say that. That's a big part of the experience — it feels like a familiar reunion, and then at the same time it's a rediscovery, to try to figure out how what life has thrown at her in the interim manifests. I love that you mentioned that. And especially at this stage in in life — I think that this film is tonally and stylistically a bit of a departure from the other three, and it's looking at some really meaningful milestones that a person in where we meet Bridget now is going through. So I love that you mentioned that; of course she's different. But part of the fun was also figuring out how she hasn't changed." On What Excited Ejiofor and Woodall About Joining the Franchise — and Playing New Romantic Interests for Bridget Leo: "There wasn't much that wasn't exciting. It's a tremendous gift to get to join this party and I had nothing but joy coming into this. Well, I had nerves, but they kind of started to go away once I'd met Renée and Chiwetel, and started becoming part of the family. It was lovely." Chiwetel: "I felt exactly the same way. It was a really exciting thing. I'd always loved the films and so it was really lovely to be asked to join it. And, you know, a little intimidating, but really just an embracing experience, I think, which is led by Renée — as Leo says. And you feel very comfortable very quickly within the environment of it all. It's a wonderful part as well. Just reading the script, it was so emotional and funny, and this great part to play. So what was not to like, really?" On What It Means to Zellweger to Lead a Rare Franchise That's Not Only About an Everyday Woman, But Has Followed Bridget Through Her 30s, 40s and 50s — to Box-Office Success Renée: "Wow, I guess I don't really look at it from that perspective. It's really special and it's a testament to Helen's talent, really, and what she's mined in these characters and these experiences that are universally relatable. It's just for me personally, it's a blessing. It changed my life creatively — and look at the people that I get to work with. Personally, I couldn't be luckier. Anywhere I go in the world, I meet strangers and we laugh together immediately because they want to share their own Bridget Jones experiences, and why their friends call them Bridget Jones. And what a beautiful thing that we have this thing in common immediately — and it's vulnerability and it's our humanity, and I think that's just so special." On Ejiofor's Sense of Responsibility Playing a Character with Parallels to Mark Darcy – But Never Trying to Replace Mark Darcy Chiwetel: "Mark Darcy is such an iconic character and a completely irreplaceable character, and Colin's work on it is so special that you would be, I think, nuts to even try to sort of step into the shoes in any way. I think the only real thing you could do is try to understand the character as an individual — and, I suppose, represent how Bridget is in a different place in her life and has completely different challenges. Mr Wallaker fits into those challenges in a really complex and interesting way, especially surrounding the dynamics that they have as a family — and Mr Wallaker as an educator, and therefore his relationship and what he brings to, especially Billy, Bridget's son, in terms of what they faced and what they've been through, and how he feels he can help in some way. So he's a really interesting character with this very individual arc, I think, from very buttoned-up to somebody with a few more interesting layers to that. But I think he's quite distinct, as I think Roxster is as well. They're distinct from the other characters, and I think that's what's really special about this. I think all the parts, and all of the parts through all of the films, have been so brilliant and so individually realised. And so it was really wonderful to be part of that." On How Woodall's Experiences on The White Lotus Season Two and One Day Helped Him to Step Into Another Project with an Existing Fanbase Leo: "It's a good question. I'm sure it did, partly subconsciously and consciously, I think. There's always — always — pressure when you start a new job. I am always the most nervous for day one, when you have no idea who you're going to be working with really, and how well you're going to do or how badly you'll do. So I just approach it as much as I can with the same attitude of just being open and wanting to do well, and to be nice and good to work with. I think one thing that's nice about an already-established fanbase is that everyone wants the thing to fulfil what they are expecting and what they're hoping for. So I think it kind of makes it a bit easier." Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy opened in cinemas Down Under on Thursday, February 13, 2025.
Rising above cookie-cutter treats, Butterboy has become one of Sydney's favourite destinations for creative and choc-filled cookies. Following the success of its Manly and Chatswood stores, the much-loved bakery has launched its third location at Broadway Sydney. Arriving in the inner city, Butterboy fans will notice a slight change in aesthetic, as the Broadway store trades in the brand's usual laidback, coastal vibe for something a little more future-focused. Gleaming with stainless steel and polished chrome finishes, a lilac-accented design draws inspiration from science labs and test kitchens. "Broadway gives us a totally different energy — it's fast, central, and full of people from all over the city," says Butterboy founder James Sideris. "We wanted the space to reflect that dynamism and feel a little unexpected, while still bringing the warmth and joy people associate with Butterboy." While the design is changing, the beloved menu is still very much the same, featuring all of Butterboy's best-known classics. From rotating cookie six-packs and tins to its signature soft serve and syrupy milkshakes, the new location will also serve up the bakery's famed limited-run seasonal drops. While nothing is exclusive to the Broadway store, a new part of Sydney can get a convenient taste. Sidaris launched the brand in 2019, after discovering a passion for whipping up cookies and muffins from his home kitchen during his university days. As his inventive ideas and clever branding attracted a following, he traded in his commerce books for the dessert business. Alongside Butterboy, Sidaris is also the co-owner of Manly's Rollers Bakehouse and Norma's Deli. Butterboy is open Monday–Wednesday and Friday from 10am–7pm, Thursday from 10am–9pm, Saturday from 9am–6pm and Sunday from 10am–6pm at Broadway Sydney, 1 Bay Street, Glebe. Head to the website for more information. Images: Dexter Kim.
A new community hub is coming to Erskineville — meet Park Sydney, a 6.9-hectare precinct that is designed to bring all you need under one roof, effectively making it unnecessary to leave your apartment block. With the slogan "everything in one place", the design comes complete with a newly-made public park with built in bike paths, along with parkside restaurants, cafes and supermarkets, all situated within the residential apartments. The development has been 20 years in the making, with decades of changes planned for the site before a project was finally confirmed, and what a project it is. An "integrated living" design, the precinct's biggest draw is its 7,400sqm of parkland, which will be built specifically for Park Sydney residents and include public BBQ facilities, amphitheatres, play areas, walkways and cycleways — the latter of which will take bikers directly into the CBD. Free visitor parking, pocket parks and a childcare centre are also part of the masterplan. The precinct is spread across nine buildings and will include a wide range of dining options, from high-end restaurants to relaxing park-side cafes. Residents can pop downstairs to the veg shop for a quick fix, or do a full on shop at the hub's onsite supermarket. Additional retail shops will make trekking into the city for late-night shopping obsolete. Exact restaurants and shops are still to be announced, but we imagine it will be competitive real estate. The residential apartments are designed by award-winning WMK Architecture and are set to be completed in 2019. The design is meant to reflect the Australian environment and has been created with sustainability in mind. It hasn't yet been announced when the entire precinct will finish, but it will be one hell of a place to live once it is.
When Godzilla first crawled out of the ocean and into cinemas, the famous movie monster made its debut appearance in the shadow of the Second World War. The link between the film's fears of nuclear holocaust and what Japan had just experienced wasn't an accident, in a picture that isn't just an excellent creature feature — the franchise-starting flick is stellar all round, including its glorious score. It was back in 1954 that Godzilla initially greeted the world. Now, almost seven decades later, 37 other movies have followed. The latest: Godzilla Minus One, which gives Zilly fans a long-awaited new Japanese Godzilla movie and takes its namesake back to the country's postwar era. As seen in the just-dropped first trailer for Godzilla Minus One, Japan is still coping with the aftermath of WWII's atomic bombings when the kaiju appears. The question: in a place that's already rebuilding, how will everyone both endure and battle against this towering critter? In a feature written and directed by Takashi Yamazaki (Lupin III: The First, Ghost Book), cue plenty of rampaging through the streets by Godzilla, plus fleeing by the film's humans. Cue buildings levelled, the ground both rumbling and crumbling, and explosions wreaking more havoc, too. Referencing going backwards from zero in its moniker, cue a film that follows people trying to survive and fight — all back in the time that gave birth to all things Godzilla. Reaching cinemas in Japan on Friday, November 3 and the US on Friday, December 1, but without a release date Down Under as yet, Godzilla Minus One marks the first live-action Japanese Godzilla release about its namesake since 2016's excellent Shin Godzilla. Since then, three animated efforts — 2017's Godzilla: Planet of the Monsters, and 2018's Godzilla: City on the Edge of Battle and Godzilla: The Planet Eater — have arrived on streaming, however. The franchise also includes America's take on Godzilla, starting with a low in 1998, then including another try in 2014, 2019's Godzilla: King of the Monsters and 2021's Godzilla vs Kong. Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, a sequel to the latter, is due in 2024. And, TV series Monarch: Legacy of Monsters is due to hit before the end of 2023. Check out the trailer for Godzilla Minus One below: Godzilla Minus One will hit cinemas in Japan on Friday, November 3 and the US on Friday, December 1, but doesn't yet have a release date Down Under — we'll update you when one is announced.
As the name suggests, Lounge Lovers is the place to head when your cosy spaces need a bit of a zhuzh. A company dedicated to providing beautiful homewares at affordable prices, Lounge Lovers has a team of in-house buyers that works directly with the suppliers to ensure it can continue to offer modern and luxurious decor pieces at a competitive price. Initially starting out as an online store, founder, Derek Kerr, quickly realised the demand to sit on and feel furniture before purchasing is a huge priority for people like us who aren't willing to risk being stuck an uncomfortable couch.
Given the Fast and Furious franchise's title, you'd think that driving speedily and passionately is what this big-budget film series is all about. Chaotic and OTT car antics play a hefty part, as the 2001 original, its seven sequels to-date and its 2019 spin-off have all shown via a constant onslaught of hectic stunts. But if there's one thing that this Vin Diesel-starring and -produced saga loves just as much as vehicular mayhem, it's family. Over the years, Diesel's Dominic Toretto has extended the term 'family' to include not only his girlfriend-turned-wife Letty (Michelle Rodriguez), his sister Mia (Jordana Brewster), her husband Brian (the late Paul Walker) and their various offspring, but their extended motley crew of fast-driving pals as well. Dom talks about family rather often, usually over a few Coronas with said friends and family. The gang has even faced off against a family of adversaries, courtesy of brothers Owen and Deckard Shaw (Luke Evans and Jason Statham), and their mother Magdalene (Helen Mirren). So, when it comes to Fast and Furious 9, it's unsurprising that the franchise is leaning heavily on one of its favourite concepts. Obviously eye-catching, jaw-dropping stunts also feature — complete with a rocket car (yes, really) — but somehow, the saga hasn't expended all family-related options just yet. As both the initial trailer back in early 2020 and the long-awaited, just-dropped second trailer for the delayed flick reveals, the villain this time is John Cena, who joins the series as Dom's younger brother Jakob. When the film hits cinemas in June after being postponed for more than a year due to the pandemic, don't expect a happy sibling reunion. This flick's outlandish set pieces will pit Dom and the crew against Jakob, who has teamed up with returning criminal mastermind Cypher (Charlize Theron). Basically, they could've called this film Fast and Furious: More Stunts and More Family, which is exactly what both trailers so far serve up. Of course, that's what's made this franchise a huge box-office success for two decades now — and those action scenes, while typically defying logic, physics and gravity, are always expertly, astonishingly and entertainingly choreographed. As well as Diesel, Rodriguez, Brewster, Cena, Theron and Mirren, Fast and Furious 9 also stars franchise mainstays Tyrese Gibson and Ludacris, plus Game of Thrones' Nathalie Emmanuel (who joined the series back in 2015's Furious 7 and is now considered part of Dom's family). And, it features the highly anticipated return of Sung Kang as Han, which is quite the narrative development if you've been following every quarter mile this series has ever sped across. After a two-film absence, the movie also marks the return of The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift, Fast & Furious, Fast Five and Fast & Furious 6 director Justin Lin. Check out the new trailer for F9 below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xzVw9QTBKJk Fast and Furious 9 releases in Australian cinemas on Thursday, June 17. Image: 2021 Universal Studios. All Rights Reserved.
The past 12 months have been extra light on dance floor action, but boy have we found the perfect way for you to get back into the swing of it now that making shapes is back. Best loosen up those muscles for the ultimate underwater dance party, happening among the fishies at Sea Life Sydney. On Friday, April 23, the aquarium is teaming up with the folks from Silent Sounds to host an after-hours silent disco in its stunning Reef Theatre, complete with 360-degree close-up views of all that ocean life in action. You'll find yourself shimmying with the sharks and moonwalking with manta rays, soundtracked by your pick of tunes played through headphones. And with three resident DJs spinning a mix of fresh hits and classic jams, there'll be dance-friendly sounds for every taste. Before the grooving gets under way, you'll get 45 minutes to explore the aquarium after dark, take some happy snaps in the photo booth and enjoy a few libations at the pop-up bar. Tickets are $50 per person, which includes a drink on arrival, after-hours aquarium access and all three hours enjoying the silent disco shenanigans. [caption id="attachment_805837" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Images: Silent Sounds[/caption]
If you live in one of the 82 million households that gave Bridgerton a stream during its first month on Netflix — making it the platform's most-watched new series ever — then you're probably also a fan of its reigning monarch. Sure, the soapy series spends most of its time with the eponymous family, with its first season following Daphne Bridgerton's (Phoebe Dynevor, Younger) quest to find a husband, and her dalliances with the Duke of Hastings (Regé-Jean Page, Sylvie's Love). But whenever Queen Charlotte (Golda Rosheuvel, Lady Macbeth) enters a scene, she steals it so convincingly and savagely that everything else around her withers in comparison. Clearly, Netflix noticed this, too. And, fresh from renewing Bridgerton for its third and fourth seasons before the second even streams, the service has announced a Queen Charlotte-centric spinoff. Get ready to spend more time with the character, but in her younger guise, with the currently untitled new show set to be a prequel. At this immensely early stage, few other details have been revealed — although Charlotte will be joined by a few other familiar faces. Younger versions of Violet Bridgerton (Ruth Gemmell, Deep State) and Lady Danbury (Adjoa Andoh, The Witcher) will also feature in the new series, if you've ever wanted to know more about their backstories. Just who'll be playing Charlotte, Violet and Lady Danbury also hasn't been announced, and neither has exactly when the show about them will hit your streaming queue. It has been revealed that the new series will be penned by Bridgerton executive producer (and Grey's Anatomy and Scandal creator) Shonda Rhimes, though. She's calling the Charlotte-focused show part of "the Bridgerton-verse" — so yes, you can probably expect more spinoffs to follow. For now, you can revisit the original Bridgerton trailer below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gpv7ayf_tyE The first season of Bridgerton is available to stream now via Netflix. The show's Queen Charlotte-focused spinoff doesn't yet have a release date — and neither does Bridgerton's second, third and fourth seasons — but we'll update you when details come to hand. Top image: Liam Daniel/Netflix.
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.
