If you don't like anything to stand between you and the sea, here are your new plans for Sunday, March 1. At 8am the third Sydney Skinny will be kicking off, as hundreds of people disrobe and dive into the calm waters of Cobblers Beach at Mosman's Middle Head for a nude swim. For those of who you didn't hear about last year's event, basically it's a ticketed swim (and the largest nude ocean swim in the world, apparently; on a similar scale to Hobart's Dark Mofo winter solstice swim) that raises money for the Foundation for National Parks & Wildlife's conservation work. In 2014 more than 700 totally starkers Sydneysiders took part, and by all accounts it was a pretty liberating, joyous experience for all involved. All participants must be over 18 and capable of swimming at least ten laps of a 50-metre pool. If you're a bit of a novice, choose the 300m option, while the more confident can plump for the 900m swim. Lifeguards will be stationed out on the water, and only people with tickets to swim get access to the beach, so you don't have to worry about creepy clothed spectators watching you disrobe. There will even be a festival area with refreshments and post-plunge freebies from event partners like Nudie juice. Non-participants are welcome to join in this portion of the event for free. You can organise to swim with a group of friends, or go solo. Whatever works. Just be mentally prepared for the possibility of running into your old high school physics teacher or your ex-boyfriend's dad.
The long, lazy days of summer bring opportunities to hit up some of the best beaches in and around Melbourne. These spots are great for days of relaxing in the sun and cooling off in the calm waters, hanging out with a bunch of mates and getting the dusty boogie boards out for a little more adventure. We've teamed up with Jim Beam to pick out everything from popular bayside stretches just a quick drive from the city to secluded coves worth making a day trip for. Here's where to take your crew this summer for an adventure best enjoyed together. Recommended Reads: The Best Outdoor Pools in Melbourne The Best Swimming Holes in Melbourne The Best Waterfalls That You Can Swim Under in Victoria The Best Day Trips from Melbourne to Take in Summer [caption id="attachment_923234" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ain Raadik for Visit Victoria[/caption] St Kilda Beach Ever-bustling and never boring, St Kilda Beach is one of Melbourne's most beloved coastal spots, pulling a solid crowd of tourists and locals alike. Ideal for beach trippers after a little more than just sea, sand and sun, St Kilda Foreshore is peppered with options for eating, drinking and people-watching, and all the buzz of Acland Street lies just a short stroll from the water. Mostly flat and sheltered from ocean swell, it's a prime spot for activities like windsurfing or waterskiing, or those days when you just feel like floating around in a big sunny bathtub. [caption id="attachment_879792" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Titus Aparici (Unsplash)[/caption] Dendy Street Beach, Brighton Famed for its iconic row of brightly hued bathing boxes, Brighton's Dendy Street Beach is a picture-perfect beachscape parked just 14 kilometres from the CBD. Boasting minimal swell and a wide stretch of sandy foreshore, it attracts an eclectic mix of families, tourists and locals. It's dog-friendly too, with pups allowed on-leash at certain times of morning and night. In between dips, you'll find plenty to explore, eat and drink along the beach's namesake street, while a quick hike up nearby Green's Point will score you some excellent bayside views. [caption id="attachment_651717" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Robert Blackburn for Visit Victoria[/caption] Lorne Beach, Great Ocean Road Torn between getting in a great surfing session and playing around on the sand with your pup? Enjoy the best of both worlds with a trip down to the famed surf spot Lorne. About two hours from Melbourne down the Great Ocean Road, this area's got a beach situation for just about everyone. There's a dog-friendly northern stretch where pooches are allowed off-leash at all times, while the swimming beach further south sits just metres from the town's main splay of cafes, restaurants and shops. What's more, there's a variety of surf breaks up and down the coast, so you'll easily find a spot to suit your skill level. Check out the best places to stay along the Great Ocean Road while you're at it. [caption id="attachment_923230" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Jesse Hisco for Visit Victoria[/caption] Sorrento Front Beach, Mornington Peninsula If you don't mind sharing the beach with a hefty crowd of holiday-makers, then the ever-popular Sorrento Beach should be high up on your coastal hit list. Located by one of the Mornington Peninsula's biggest and most popular tourist towns, this one comes with no shortage of wining, dining and post-swim options. Take a stroll along the 200-metre-long jetty, enjoy a leisurely swim in the protected waters, or try your luck with a spot of sea kayaking. Williamstown Beach For a beach day that doesn't require too much in the way of car time, head 20 minutes southwest of the CBD and land yourself on the sandy shores of Williamstown. Williamstown Beach, one of the best beaches in Melbourne, is sparkling clean and patrolled, with minimal waves to wrangle, though a balmy day will likely find you battling the crowds for a prime spot on the sand. When it's time for a feed, there are picnic facilities close to the esplanade, or you can nip up to the main drag to take advantage of one of the area's top-notch fish and chip shops. The Basque-inspired Sebastian is also ideally located right on the beach itself, perfect for long lunches and dinners overlooking the beach. [caption id="attachment_651724" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ian Cochrane via Flickr[/caption] Half Moon Bay, Black Rock An idyllic patch of coastline, located just south of Sandringham, Black Rock's Half Moon Bay deserves a spot on high rotation this beach season. The secluded, crescent-shaped bay stays nice and protected from the weather, so it's perfect for some laidback paddling or an easy jaunt out on the boat. The HMVS Cerberus has been sunk as a breakwater about 220 metres offshore, which means you'll also find plenty of great spots here for snorkelling. In fact, it's one of the best snorkelling spots in Melbourne. For that post-swim feed, treat yourself to a table at Cerberus Beach House, or opt for a classic fish and chips fix from the downstairs beach kiosk. [caption id="attachment_651725" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Lin Padgham via Flickr[/caption] Waratah Bay, South Gippsland If you're making a weekend of your beach getaway, you'll find a picture-perfect paradise in Waratah Bay, a 15-kilometre sandy expanse along the South Gippsland coastline. The exposed beach cops all sorts of waves and breaks, making it a popular spot for surfers of all experience levels. It's a fairly chilled-out corner of the world, with the namesake town boasting little more than a caravan park, proving the perfect antidote to city life. While you're there, be sure to take a stroll along the bush fire walking track and revel in some sweeping coastal views. [caption id="attachment_651727" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nick Carson via Flickr[/caption] Somers Beach, Mornington Peninsula A holiday family favourite, Somers is a picturesque beach spot stretching three kilometres along the Mornington Peninsula's southeast edge. It's a little more low-key than its Portsea and Sorrento counterparts, with sleepier surrounds and a swell that's usually pretty kid-friendly. While there's not a whole lot in the way of nearby food and drink options, it's gold if you fancy catching a feed of your own, with great fishing off the beach or the surrounding rocks during high tide. Home to the Somers Yacht Club, this one's also a popular sailing destination. Keep your eyes peeled and you'll likely spot a frolicking dolphin or two. [caption id="attachment_923236" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Robert Blackburn for Visit Victoria[/caption] Anglesea Beach, Great Ocean Road A popular pit-stop along the Great Ocean Road, the small surf town of Anglesea feels far removed from the city hustle and bustle (as well as the increasingly busy Torquay), though you can knock out the journey in an hour and a half by car. The adjacent river mouth makes for an excellent fishing spot, while the easy conditions offshore prove popular with beginner surfers. It's fairly safe and patrolled throughout the summer, and the town centre plays host to a tidy array of restaurants, shops and cafes, located just a short stroll from the sand. It's an easy addition to this list of the best beaches in and around Melbourne. [caption id="attachment_651726" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Russell Street via Flickr[/caption] Flinders Beach, Mornington Peninsula A white sandy strip along the bottom of the Mornington Peninsula, Kennon Cove in Flinders is guaranteed to charm your socks off with its quaint, seaside feel. Here, you can do it all — get some air with a dive off the old-school pier, explore the assortment of critter-filled rock pools, enjoy a spot of snorkelling through the reefs, or take to the calm waters for a cruisy swimming session. There are loads of great spots here to fish from, or you can leave dinner to the professionals and buy ocean-fresh mussels directly from the fishermen at the pier. Like Jim Beam, surfing and other outdoor adventures are all about bringing people together, so get out there this summer and find your tribe in the great outdoors. Top image: St Kilda Beach by Ain Raadik for Visit Victoria
It's been a long 15 years since NSW beer-lovers have been able to crack open a tinnie of Reschs pilsener, that much-loved can affectionately coined the Silver Bullet. Producer Carlton & United Breweries replaced these venerable vessels with an arguably inferior bottled version in 2005, and fans have been mourning the loss ever since. But all is right in the world once again, with CUB finally responding to the public's thirsty pleas and putting the legendary tins back into production. From next week, Reschs Silver Bullets will be gracing your local bottle shop once more, reclaiming their rightful place in beer fridges across the state. What's more, the relaunched can has scored a tick of approval from the Reschs Appreciation Society — a crew of hardcore fans that was founded a decade ago and includes some of the Silver Bullet's strongest advocates. The new tin design features the same silver tones and map of NSW worn by the original, but with a more modern finish. There's also an added shout-out to the Society on the bottom of each carton. [caption id="attachment_778022" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Reschs Appreciation Society members[/caption] "We stopped making Silver Bullets 15 years ago because sales were down," explained Reschs Marketing Manager Hugh Jellie in a statement. "But the Society's passion has helped us realise this was a mistake." The new 375-millilitre Silver Bullet cans will replace the equivalent pilsener stubbies, but you'll still be able to get your hands on the 750-millilitre glass longnecks. The beer recipe itself remains unchanged. The Society is celebrating the return of their beloved brew with a live-streamed knees-up at Paddington's Imperial Hotel on Saturday, August 15. Access is for members only, but you can sign up for free here. Reschs Pilsener's revamped Silver Bullet cans will start rolling out from the start of August. Find them at your local NSW bottle shop.
UPDATE MAY 13, 2020 — I Maccheroni is reopening for private functions of up to ten people from Friday, May 15. You'll get a three-course sharing menu and a $500 bar tab. To book, head to the website or call (02) 9327 1416. All you need to so is to pay 1K to lock your session For the past two years, I Maccheroni's hearty and accessible nature has acted as a warm welcome for Rose Bay locals. Now, the modest Italian eatery will do the same for Woollahra, with the Italian restaurant having recently relocated to take over the old Buzo site along Jersey Road. Head chef, caterer and owner Marcello Farioli (ex-10 William Street, Fratelli Paradiso, Otto and Pendolino) will continue to serve up the locally sourced, seasonal Italian fare that the venue is known for, with breads and pastas made in-house and prepared fresh each day. Open for dinner six nights a week, the vibe is akin to eating at Nonna's house (whether you have a nonna or not). The menu continues to focus on Italian staples. Its signature pasta dishes have been carried over, including the burnt butter and sage spinach tortelli with 24-month aged reggiano cheese ($32) and the namesake rotating maccheroni, which at the moment is a lamb ragu with sundried tomatoes, Italian kale and asiago ($29). Regular blackboard specials are still on offer, too — as is expected with truly seasonal fare. The venue is a big upgrade from its former tony digs — the Jersey Road space spans two floors with a bar on the ground floor. While communal dining was the focus in Rose Bay, only one of the original polished concrete long tables has made its way into the new space. In Woollahra, it's a much more intimate atmosphere with smaller tables, bar seating and even a couch in the main dining room. The BYO policy has also been left at Rose Bay — that's because the restaurant is now fully licensed, as depicted by the expansive wine rack adorning one of the walls. Come by on Tuesdays when it's regional dinner night, with each week focusing on a different side of Italian cuisine. The meal is a bargain at $39 per person, which gets diners a three-course meal and a glass of wine to boot. Images: Steven Woodburn.
Longstanding Bondi cafe Harry's is opening its doors and its kitchen for dinner for the first time, all thanks to a weekly Sunday session. It won't be serving up its usual brunch fare, however — instead, it's inviting some of Sydney's best young chefs to whip up something special. Harry's New Wave Chef Sessions will see a different face in the kitchen each week, introducing diners to Sydney's fresh batch of culinary talent. The up-and-coming chefs hail from respected restaurants across the city, including Chica Bonita, Cafe Paci and Ume Burger. Each week's menu will centre on a different concept, with snacks and small sharing plates under $20, plus wines and cocktails by Connor Sainsbury Canham from Whole Bunch Wines. Cocktails will feature ingredients gathered from the area, including local lemon myrtle and seaweed sourced by free-diving in North Bondi. Diners can look forward to Dear Sainte Éloise's head chef Hugh Piper serving up Peruvian ocean trout ceviche, signature flavours from Ume Burger courtesy of Kerby Craig, and Chica Bonita's classic tacos from Alejandro Huerta. On May 3, Jack New (of the soon-to-open Teramoto) will be joined by bartenders from Prince of York for an extravagant gold-themed Japanese/Australian menu. Eight chefs have been locked in for the series so far, with more likely to be announced on social media in the coming weeks. Here's hoping fora little more diversity in the lineup, especially considering the event launches on International Women's Day. NEW WAVE CHEF SESSIONS LINEUP March 8: Alejandro Huerta, Chica Bonita March 15: Simon Drolz-Cox, Cafe Paci March 22: Hugh Piper, Dear Sainte Éloise March 29: Lewin White, Icebergs Bar and Dining Room April 5: Kerby Craig, Ume Burger April 19: Michael Lo Presti, Momofuku Seiobo May 3: Jack New, Teramoto (opening in March) with Prince of York May 10: Kenta Takeuchi, Cirrus New Wave Chef Sessions will take place every Sunday night from March 8. You can book at table on Harry's Bondi's website. Images: J Belnick.
It's been 21 years since the first of The Lord of the Rings movies had everyone rushing to cinemas, obsessing over hobbits and elves, saying "precious" too many times and ogling New Zealand's natural splendours. Come September, this time via your streaming queue, get ready for much of the above to happen all over again. After five years of talking about it, Prime Video's new series The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power is mere months away from reaching eyeballs — and the platform has just dropped another trailer to tease what's in store. Yes, Middle-earth is about to sprawl across your TV screen — or whichever other screen you use to access your streaming queue. The JRR Tolkien-inspired fantasy series will return to the franchise's elves, dwarves, epic cities and leafy landscapes, as its first sneak peek back in February made plain. And, thanks to the just-dropped new footage, it looks set to spend a fair amount of time looking up. "The skies are strange," viewers are told at the beginning of the minute-long clip — and a fiery ball in the heavens does indeed demonstrate just that. The clip is big on mood and light on story, but still offers a fresh look at The Rings of Power's world. Full sneak peek exclusively for Prime Members on https://t.co/cofBDVThEu. #TheRingsOfPower pic.twitter.com/Md8SAMk2aT — Prime Video (@PrimeVideo) July 6, 2022 The one catch: if you're keen to check out the whole new clip, you'll already need to be a Prime member. If so, you can head to Prime Video now to watch the full teaser — as part of the platform's push to promote its upcoming Prime Day. If you're not up to date on The Rings of Power, it features a young Galadriel (Morfydd Clark, Saint Maud) and a young Elrond (Robert Aramayo, The King's Man). As seen in the initial trailer, it's also set to include elves catching arrows, humans stuck on rafts on stormy seas, cave trolls, raging fires and orc battles. Amazon first announced the show back in 2017, gave it the official go-ahead in mid-2018 and set a premiere date of Friday, September 2, 2022 back in 2021. In-between, it confirmed that it wouldn't just remake Peter Jackson's movies. Rather, the series will spend time in Middle-earth's Second Age, bringing that era from the LOTR realm to the screen for the very first time. According to show's official synopsis, The Rings of Power will follow "the heroic legends of the fabled Second Age of Middle-earth's history," with the action set thousands of years before the novels and movies we've all read and watched. The series will also "take viewers back to an era in which great powers were forged, kingdoms rose to glory and fell to ruin, unlikely heroes were tested, hope hung by the finest of threads, and the greatest villain that ever flowed from Tolkien's pen threatened to cover all the world in darkness." If you're a little rusty on your LOTR lore, the Second Age lasted for 3441 years, and saw the initial rise and fall of Sauron, as well as a spate of wars over the coveted rings. Elves feature prominently, and there's plenty to cover, even if Tolkien's works didn't spend that much time on the period — largely outlining the main events in an appendix to the popular trilogy. Naturally, you can expect Sauron to feature in the new show, and to give its main figures some trouble. "Beginning in a time of relative peace, the series follows an ensemble cast of characters, both familiar and new, as they confront the long-feared re-emergence of evil to Middle-earth," the official synopsis continues. "From the darkest depths of the Misty Mountains, to the majestic forests of the elf-capital of Lindon, to the breathtaking island kingdom of Númenor, to the furthest reaches of the map, these kingdoms and characters will carve out legacies that live on long after they are gone," it also advises. In terms of stars, The Rings of Power features an unsurprisingly large cast — and some impressive talent behind the scenes. Among the other actors traversing Middle-earth are Ismael Cruz Córdova (The Undoing) as Arondir, Nazanin Boniadi (Bombshell) as Bronwyn, Owain Arthur (A Confession) as Prince Durin IV, Charlie Vickers (Palm Beach) as Halbrand and Sophia Nomvete (The Tempest) as Princess Disa. There's also Tom Budge (Judy & Punch), Joseph Mawle (Game of Thrones), Cynthia Addai-Robinson (The Accountant), Maxim Baldry (Years and Years), Peter Mullan (Westworld), Benjamin Walker (The Underground Railroad) and comedian Lenny Henry. And, the series is being overseen by showrunners and executive producers JD Payne and Patrick McKay, while filmmaker JA Bayona (A Monster Calls, Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom) directs the first two episodes. After you've hopped over to Prime Video to scope out the new trailer, you can revisit out the first teaser for The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power below. And, watch this space — as announced in the just-dropped new clip, another trailer is coming on July 14, too. The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power will be available to stream via Prime Video from Friday, September 2, 2022. Images: Matt Grace / Ben Rothstein.
On the edge of the rapidly gentrifying Central Park area, lies The Lord Gladstone. Now in the hands of the OG crew (Benny Johnson and Mitchell Crum), the pub had a makeover of sorts back in 2019. While its retained its old-school feel and general laidback vibe, the boys have amped up the entertainment with more live gigs and parties, plus more art exhibitions in the upstairs gallery space, Goodspace. But still, the stern visage of The Lord Gladstone hangs outside tiled walls with a big screen showing sports on one wall while the Regent Street traffic buzzes outside. It's a laidback space, perfect for locals to congregate for a midweek dinner. In the kitchen, chefs are turning out all your pub favourites. Expect a solid chicken schnitty or parmie, lamb chops, fish and chips, nachos, a house curry and a few burger options. Drinks include some (very) local craft beers, such as Young Henrys, 4 Pines, Resch's and Akasha. There's also a short wine list and espresso martinis on tap. With a dedication to live music and an existing killer sound system for the purpose, the Lord Gladstone seems comfortable in its skin, neither trying too hard for design magazine hip nor chasing the food trend of the month. From the graffiti-strewn courtyard to the tartan carpets in the front room, it's an approachable pub set to be a reliable local for years to come. Appears in: The Best Pubs in Sydney
It has been the training ground for Olympians and a cool escape from the summer heat for many little (and big) Sydneysiders for 39 years, but as of next January, the Macquarie Ice Rink will be no more. It will be demolished to make way for multimillion-dollar upgrades to the Macquarie Centre. The announcement was made earlier this week in a press release sent out by the owners of the ice rink, who revealed that AMP Capital, the owners of the shopping centre, would be ending the ice rink's lease on January 31, 2020. "It is a devastating blow to the many thousands of people who use the ice rink," it said in the statement. The ice rink's owner Dr Frank Gregg said the timing was particularly bad, with the ice rink given a $3.5 million upgrade just last year. "We recently spent millions of dollars refurbishing the ice rink and laying new ice for the athletes and the public," Dr Gregg said in a statement. In response to the announcement, a Change.org petition was launched, and has since garnered 17,165 signatures. Dr Gregg is hoping this will help convince AMP to reverse its decision, saying, "We are still in negotiations with AMP and hopeful that they will their mind". According to News Corp, the shopping centre's $195 million redevelopment would include improved links from the shopping centre to the train station and bus interchange as well as a public plaza, which would impact the space where the ice rink is currently located. https://www.facebook.com/macquarieicerink/posts/2513306518686394 In the meantime, you still have 12 months to visit the Macquarie Ice Rink, which is open to the public at various times throughout the week and all-day on Sunday, as well as for disco sessions on Friday nights. Macquarie Ice Rink is slated for closure on January 31, 2020. We'll let you know if anything changes.
There are heaps of Thai restaurants across Sydney, but Macquarie Park's Khao Pla is in a league of its own. The restaurant serves up modern dishes that span culinary regions from all over Thailand. Chef Pla Rojratanavichai uses only the freshest produce, much of which is sourced locally. The kitchen regularly turns out a menu of inventive specials, including king fish sashimi with tom kha dressing and deep fried whole fish with green mango salad. Some of the fan-favourites include twice-cooked pork ribs tossed in tamarind sauce and topped with a generous amount of spring onion as well as the raw beef larb with roasted chillies and ground rice. We also can't overlook the spicy and rich tom yum goong with prawn and lemongrass and the wok-fried crispy pork belly with curry paste and kaffir lime leaf. These are must-orders. The classic stir fries also make the cut, as do pad thai, pad see ew and staples like duck red curry, braised beef massaman and chicken green curry. Basically, come with a bunch of mates and order one of everything. Like any good restaurant, the desserts are especially exciting, with the black sticky rice with Jasmine tapioca, jack fruits, Thai milk tea ice cream and sugarcane sauce a highlight. The Roselle is also damn good — a lime curd and coconut meringue with lychee and roselle syrup. You've also got the roti banana served with Nutella and smoked coconut sorbet for those wanting something special. Enjoy your family-style dinner in bustling surrounds with exposed brick walls, hanging greenery and old black-and-white photos as wallpaper. It's a popular spot, so be sure to book ahead — or check out Khao Pla's second location in Chatswood.
Remember the days when the only meat-free options on menus were side salads, fries and sad-looking garlic bread? Us too. While some days definitely still call for carb-loading, Sydney's growing list of plant-based cafes means the options available now are anything but beige. And to help you find your new favourite, we've create this round up of Sydney's very best vegetarian and vegan cafes — home to tasty grain bowls, vege burgers and plant-based pastas and pizzas. [caption id="attachment_798216" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Cassandra Hannagan[/caption] DAILY GREENS, PADDINGTON If veggie-packed shakshuka on hearty, homemade bread, fresh pastries, and vanilla-whipped ricotta with raspberry preserve sound like your thing, make sure you visit Daily Greens in Paddington. Feeling creative? There's also an option to build your own bowl, complete with an extensive list of ingredients for you to customise your own warm or cold dish — here, selections include baked tofu, charred cauliflower, spiced crispy chickpeas and dressings like avocado ranch or miso caramel. When the sun is out, soak up the rays in the plant-based cafe's leafy courtyard which has a tree growing right through its centre. [caption id="attachment_707088" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Sam Ali[/caption] KHAMSA CAFE, ERSKINEVILLE The inner west is arguably Sydney's ground zero for plant-based dining, and Khamsa Cafe is the kind of place you'll want to visit more than once. At this all-day diner, every plate of photo-worthy Palestinian food is generously packed with fresh, flavoursome ingredients. Must-tries include the signature Jerusalem Bowl, stacked with hummus, baba ganoush, quinoa, fattoush, falafel and cauliflower and a mushroom-packed shawerma pastry. There's also a range of traditional sweet and savoury pastries — think a musakhan with sumac, mushroom and onion and semolina cake with orange blossom syrup — as well as a rotating daily lunch special of a traditional Palestinian dish. The best part? You can take your dog along with you, too. It is a clear front-runner for the best vegan and vegetarian cafe in Sydney. CORNERSMITH, ANNANDALE This thriving, family-run casual dining spot is living proof that from little things big things grow. Starting as a humble eatery, the Cornersmith empire now includes cooking classes, cookbooks and plenty of homemade pickled and preserved goods to take home. The Annandale plant-based cafe has a simple, seasonal menu which includes decadent toasties, fresh salads and a particularly delicious tahini granola bowl with roasted pears. You'll can sit down and enjoy your meal in the friendly, laidback surrounds or preorder an adorable picnic box to enjoy in one of the nearby Sydney parks. SHIFT EATERY, SURRY HILLS Surry Hills locals love Shift Eatery. Office workers and city dwellers alike frequently crowd the pavement waiting for a lunchtime pick-me-up from Sydney's first meat-free deli. The Sydney vegan cafe's ethos is simple: it's all about making the shift to a plant-based diet as easy as possible. And that's exactly what it does. Known for its meat-free takes on popular dishes — think a plant-based reuben and meatball sub — this cafe will have even the biggest sceptics converted. Sample the self proclaimed 'best vegan bacon and egg bagel in the whole world' and find out if it's as good as a traditional one. Spoiler alert: it's better. [caption id="attachment_613611" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Alana Dimou[/caption] TWO CHAPS, MARRICKVILLE Two Chaps is the kind of place you can visit on the reg and yet dine on something different every visit. The cosy Marrickville plant-based cafe and bakery has an ever-changing, seasonal menu designed to reduce food waste, support local producers, and keep its hungry customers coming back for more. While the dinner menu's fresh, homemade pasta packed with nuts and vegetables has amassed a cult-like following, things during the day are just as delicious thanks to some of Sydney's best plant-based doughnuts and homemade pies. And did someone say dulce de leche-filled brioche? Whether you stop in for a little pick-me-up or a full-blown feast, you'll walk away feeling satisfied. RUBY LONESOME, PETERSHAM This little local cafe has a whole lot of heart — and a simple menu featuring meat-free versions of all the classics. The Cheeze Burger will have you asking why you didn't try plant-based earlier, while specials might include the melt-in-your-mouth Sloppy Jocelyn — it will get all over your face but is so tasty you won't mind. Order the Big Boi for breakfast if you're hungry or a Buddha Bowl if you're looking for something lighter, then peruse the countertop for super cute and tasty take-home goodies like pickled veggies, relishes, cashew cheese and daily-made baked goods. Heck, even order yourself an entire fairy bread cake, really indulging at one of Sydney's best vegetarian and vegan cafes.
For many Sydneysiders, the CBD was synonymous with two things: tourists and office workers. This year, things changed. With those two elements stripped right back, we can see more clearly than ever what makes the CBD such a special part of Sydney: its small businesses. We're talking about the hole-in-the-wall joint that serves your life-giving morning latte, the reliable boutique shop that's become your go-to for last-minute gifts, and the bar you head to for a post-work cocktail and boogie. Every encounter you have with a local vendor contributes to why you love living in Sydney. And they need your patronage more than ever. So, we teamed up with City of Sydney to ask you — Concrete Playground readers — what businesses you love to visit in the CBD, from the beating heart of the city to the harbourside, Barangaroo and The Rocks. And you came up with some absolute gems. Read on to discover some of the most popular picks to visit during the day. Then, flick the switch above and we'll dim the lights to show your favourite things to do once the sun goes down.
Following a big night out, scrolling through your snaps may be part of your morning-after routine, letting you bask in the glory of all those photos immortalising all that fun. Or, hitting up a gig, bar or party just mightn't be complete unless you're filling your socials while you're there. Whether one or both of the above apply to you, neither is out of the ordinary — so much so that heading to a shindig without being able to access your phone is now a novelty. That's exactly the kind of situation that Lane 8's record label This Never Happened is embracing, however, when it tours Australia's east coast with for a series of gatherings. At This Never Happens Presents, you won't have a screen in your hand — or face. You won't be swiping, texting or doing anything else with the gadget we're all addicted to, either. Attendees will have their phones taped upon arrival, because these dance music get-togethers are all about connecting IRL and in the moment. The tour has three stops over one July weekend, starting on Friday, July 14 at 170 Russell in Melbourne, then moving to Sydney's Metro Theatre on Saturday, July 15, before wrapping up at Brightside Outdoors in Brisbane on Sunday, July 16. In each city, you'll enjoy tunes from Le Youth, Sultan & Shepard and PARIS on the dance floor — and you'll just have to rely upon your noggin to remember all the highlights afterwards. These will be This Never Happen's first shows in this part of the world, after launching in 2016, signing artists who've toured with producer and DJ Lane 8, and first hosting parties in 2017 and 2019 elsewhere around the globe. Pics or it didn't happen? Not here. THIS NEVER HAPPENED PRESENTS 2023 DATES: Friday, July 14 — 170 Russell, Melbourne Saturday, July 15 — Metro Theatre, Sydney Sunday, July 16 — Brightside Outdoors, Brisbane THIS NEVER HAPPENED PRESENTS 2023 LINEUP: Le Youth Sultan & Shepard PARIS This Never Happened Presents tours Australia's east coast in July, with ticket pre-sales from 12pm AEST on Wednesday, May 10 and general sales from 12pm on Thursday, May 11.
Inside a stately 19th-century building, you'll find the longstanding Establishment Bar. You won't miss the centrepiece of the room — a 42-metre-long marble bar, which perfectly exemplifies the vibe of this joint. This is an elegant and sophisticated establishment, and it knows a little something about drinks and dining. The menu for the main bar and the garden space outside runs the gamut from modern Australian cafe breakfasts and pub classics to traditional Thai fare, right through to a bar food menu after 10pm. For brekkie, there are simple nibbles like freshly baked pastries, fruit, muesli and toast with artisanal jams, or if you're after something more substantial, try the quinoa bowl with poached eggs, avocado and kale ($20) or scrambled eggs with prawns, shellfish oil and broccolini ($25). From midday till 3pm, Monday to Friday, there's a full menu of Thai favourites including lamb massaman ($20), geng khio gai ($25) and som tum pla salmon ($23), so you'll find plenty of business workers enjoying their lunch break here during the week. Otherwise, there's a pretty classic list of small plates, salads and mains, available until late. All this can be paired with plenty of wine from Australia, France and beyond, or step out for a seasonal cocktail in the garden. Images: Trent van der Jagt.
Even megastars get hungry — which is where chef to the stars Tom Morrison steps in. This seasoned kitchen pro has cooked for the likes of the elusive chanteuse Mariah Carey, Sk8ter Boi songstress Avril Lavigne and occasional elf Orlando Bloom, but Morrison's skills extend beyond merely feeding A-listers. Now, everyday Sydneysiders will be able to sample his food as he turns his talents to that most universal of morsels, the humble sandwich. These, however, are no ordinary sangas. From Tommy Panini, his hole-in-the-wall pop-up venue in Brookvale, Morrison is serving up his version of the Campanian street food staple, the panuzzo — an Italian sandwich featuring bread made from pizza dough. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tommy Panini (@tommypanini) "We wanted to offer something different," Morrison explains. "Not just another sandwich, but a culinary experience that combines the best of pizza and sandwiches." These pizza-sandwich hybrids have been enjoying a viral moment on social media recently, but Morrison has gone to great lengths to ensure his panuzzi stand out from the digital crowd. Rosemary and garlic-infused oil is used to make the dough, which is then combined with rich and creamy fior di latte, produced by Marrickville cheesemongers Vannella. The bread is then baked in much the same way as a Neapolitan pizza — in a woodfired pizza oven, heated to around 400 celsius — to achieve that tell-tale bubble and char. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tommy Panini (@tommypanini) The fillings take their cues from hearty Italian flavours, such as the chicken cotoletta (the Stivale answer to a schnitzel), spiked with Calabrian chilli mayo, sundried tomato tapenade, zippy hits of zucchini pickle and finished with a generous shaving of parmigiano. There's also a classic mortadella panini on the menu, stuffed with layer upon layer of the ever-popular Italian luncheon meat, dressed with fresh pesto, ricotta and a sweet surprise — house-made pistachio praline. Salami also gets a shout, combined with a roast carrot and capsicum tapenade, nduja, silky fior di latte and peppery rocket, and for meat-free option, there's a Lebanese twist featuring green-pea falafel. However, be warned: should you acquire a taste for these celeb-worthy sandos, you'll need to make the most of them while you can. Morrison's pop-up will only be offering its takeaway panuzzi until the end of spring. Find Tommy Panini at 4/515 Pittwater Road, Brookvale, open Tuesday–Friday, 10:30am until sold out, until the end of spring. Head to the venue's Instagram account for details.
Unless you've spent the past few years north of the wall, you'll know that House of the Dragon is coming — the long-in-the-works prequel series to Game of Thrones, that is. HBO wasn't going to completely say goodbye to its huge fantasy hit when the original show wrapped up, of course, and plenty of other spinoffs are under consideration (including a Jon Snow-focused sequel); however, the first of the bunch starts airing on Monday, August 22 in Australia. House of the Dragon is set 200 years before the events of GoT, and focuses on House Targaryen. Yes, that means that dragons are obviously part of the series, and so is a Succession-style battle over who should sit on the Iron Throne. Always thought that you should park your butt on the hefty chair yourself? Thanks to Binge, which'll stream House of the Dragon when it starts, that's about to become a reality. No, you won't be making a trip to the show's sets — rather, the Iron Throne is coming Down Under. And yes, you really will be able to sit on it when it makes its way to your city. [caption id="attachment_864676" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ollie Upton[/caption] House of Dragon's version of the Iron Throne looks a bit different to the OG — newer, you'd expect, given it exists two centuries before the seat seen in GoT — and is covered in 1000 swords. This full-scale replica isn't small, either, measuring 3.7 metres wide, 2.8 metres high and 3.3 metres deep, and weighing 226 kilograms. Sydneysiders will get to live out their House Targaryen dreams first, with the throne first appearing at Sydney Town Hall, from 9am–5pm on Friday, August 19. It'll also head to the University of Sydney, in front of The Great Hall, from 9am–4pm on Wednesday, August 31–Thursday, September 1. Melbourne dates have been locked in as well, at Westfield Southland, on level one near Brioche by Philip, from 9am–5pm on Saturday, September 10 and 10am–5pm on Sunday, September 11. [caption id="attachment_864683" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Ollie Upton[/caption] If you're a Game of Thrones fan elsewhere around Australia, start hoping like Arya crossing off her list that the Iron Throne will come your way — we'll update you when further dates are announced. And if you've forgotten the throne's backstory, it was forged from the blades of Aegon Targaryen's defeated foes, which were melted together by a dragon — of course — after he conquered Westeros. Check out the full House of the Dragon trailer below: IRON THRONE AUSTRALIAN TOUR DATES: Friday, August 19 — Sydney Town Hall from 9am–5pm. Wednesday, August 31–Thursday, September 1 — University of Sydney, in front of The Great Hall, from 9am–4pm. Saturday, September 10–Sunday, September 11 — Westfield Southland from 9am–5pm on Saturday and 10am–5pm on Sunday. House of the Dragon's Iron Throne will tour Australia from mid-August. House of the Dragon will start airing on Monday, August 22 Down Under via Foxtel and Binge.
While Messina's main jam is crafting supremely scoffable varieties of gelato, the brand's love of food extends far beyond the freezer. Back before the pandemic, the cult gelateria would team up with a savoury-focused culinary hero every couple of months, then throw a big ol' food party in the car park at its Rosebery headquarters to celebrate the collaboration. While the series has been less regular lately (thanks COVID), one collab that hasn't fallen by the wayside is regular team-ups with Melbourne's Filipino barbecue masters Hoy Pinoy. After a hugely popular pop-up in 2021, the two teams are again congregating at Messina's Roseberry HQ for two nights of barbecued meats and inventive gelato creations. On Instagram, Gelato Messina announced the return with the message: "Considering last time probably brought more people to Rosebery than ever before, we figured it was only right to bring back the Filo street food and BBQ kings to Syd for more people to try it." Hoy Pinoy's skewers are always a big hit at the Night Noodle Markets, however, with the markets suffering yet another postponement (this time due to rain), this weekend pop-up will be your best chance to get your hands on them. The team will be grilling up the skewers (both chicken and pork belly) as well as cheese pork belly loaded fries, steamed rice with papaya pickles and a next-level barbecue plate. Those that opt for the plate will be treated to bistek tagalog-glazed beef short rib, smoked inasal wings, sweet pork sausages steamed rice, Filipino pickles and spicy banana ketchup. For dessert, Messina will be whipping up monay milk buns filled with your choice of ube, leche flan, cheese or pandan gelato. And, to drink, there'll be a combination of sweetened coconut milk and pandan jellies. The whole thing will go down over Friday and Saturday in the car park at Messina's Rosebery HQ. It'll be open from midday for lunch and dinner until sold out.
Australians have beer drinking down to a fine art. First of all, we serve it cold (London, how did you miss that one for so long?). Second, we're exceptionally good at creating places to drink it that allow you to soak up the sunshine and enjoy that ice cold beer at the same time. Genius. Seeing as it's possibly the best time right now to enjoy the great outdoors, Concrete Playground has scoured the city and collected for you our pick of the best beer gardens around. This one's on us. The Courthouse Hotel Popular with students, artists and the battered men who've been frequenting it for the past forty years, The Courthouse is a beloved staple of Newtown's drinking spots. Grungy, relaxed and unpretentious with one of Sydney's finest beer gardens, I have an unabashed devotion to this place. Inside you'll find pool tables, a collection of pinball machines and a couple of vinyl couches with the stuffing falling out of them. The interior of the pub is exactly what you'd expect: dark wood on scruffy walls, well-trodden carpet and a gallery of old Sydney Swans posters. A pair of arty student types with silly beards sit at the bar alongside a bloke in a Bonds singlet, nursing a schooner, sporting an entirely un-silly beard. During AFL season expect not to be able to hold a conversation anywhere near the football-scarfed fans surrounding the televisions. 202 Australia Street, Newtown The Norfolk It's amazing what a fresh coat of paint and some mismatched furniture can do for a courtyard. Just take the Norfolk's beer garden, for example. Since it's decidedly hip transformation, the leafy backyard has become a haven for Surry Hills locals to kick back and have a drink, and you'll be hard pressed to find a seat during the packed lunch and post-work hours. It's the jewel in this redone pub's crown. There's a lot of great reasons to visit the Norfolk, and the trendy interior is just the start of it. Cocktail lovers will like the ingenuity behind drinks like the Bloody Mary, served in a Campbell's tomato soup tin, or the Ciderlicious, combining apple cider with pear vodka and smashed mixed berries. And while they still need to work out the kinks on the sharp-tasting Sangrias, the jugs are good value for groups. 305 Cleveland Street, Redfern The Rose Hotel This vibrant beer garden has provided an inner city oasis for over one hundred years. Tucked between the busy stretches of City Road and Cleveland Street, the intimate beer garden gets just as crowded as its bustling surroundings after 5pm, minus the noise and smog. Meanwhile, the low-lit lamps scattered across the garden make for a much more pleasant ambience than the glaring traffic lights beyond. Just down the road from Sydney Uni, The Rose Hotel is the watering hole of choice for students, testament to its affordable prices and lively atmosphere. The Rose boasts an extensive bistro menu, just a little pricier and a little more pretentious than its $10 lunch dishes. Exotic pizza choices provide the menu's crowning glory, with the option of tomato, garlic and chili bases plus experimental toppings, such as roasted pumpkin, blue cheese, spinach and hazelnuts. With prolonged happy hours more akin to happy days, The Rose is a great option for a few drinks amongst a vibrant crowd. cnr Cleveland and Shepherd Streets, Chippendale The Oaks Hotel Named for the oak in the courtyard which clocks in at over seventy years old, The Oaks is an institution. The pub itself dates back to 1885, meaning they well and truly have their formula down. The establishment is gigantic, so that there's plenty of bars and dining options within that are all worth a visit in their own right. Surround yourself with art deco glamour in the 'Tramway'-style Nineteenthirtysix, or relax amongst the crowd in the aforementioned courtyard. In terms of food, try one of the reasonably-priced gourmet pizzas like the Oaks Deluxe, with spicy sausage, caramelised onion, roasted capsicum and tomato. Or, if you're in the mood for a barbeque, choose a raw cut of beef, chicken or fish and cook it up yourself. 118 Military Road, Neutral Bay Slip Inn An easy stroll from your CBD office, Slip Inn is the ideal mid-week pit stop. Notorious as the place where Fredrick met Mary, the Tuscan-styled courtyard and twinkling lights make this a watering hole fit for a prince. But with prices to rival its neighbours on King Street Wharf, the Slip Inn is the obvious choice for a cheeky beverage. The Garden Bar fills up quickly weekdays and weekends alike, so get in early if you want a seat in the cushioned booths. This lazy outdoor vibe is high in demand as it provides some balance for the heavier atmosphere of the Main Bar and the chaotic beats of Chinese Laundry beneath the floor boards. 111 Sussex Street, Sydney The Beresford Hotel Popular with glamorous young things and the post-work crowd, the Beresford must be one of Sydney's hippest pubs. Building on a recent renovation, Hemmes has reinvigorated this space with fresh foliage, exceptional Italian bar food from Tuscan chef Gabriele Taddeucci, and his own certain je ne sais quoi. Perhaps the most lovely part of the whole venture is the courtyard, more reminiscent of a Japanese garden than your typical Aussie beer garden. Think cobblestones, Japanese maples, low wooden furniture and lanterns dangling above your head. It's also a refreshing change from the buzzing atmosphere inside - though this doesn't mean it's not busy. The rule is to turn up early and stay late, perhaps ducking upstairs to check out a band while you're here. 354 Bourke Street, Surry Hills The Tilbury Hotel Woolloomooloo has no shortage of places to sip on a schooner. From the jazzy joints along the wharf to the old school atmosphere of Bells, there's something to satisfy every drinker. But if it's a beer garden you're after, there's only one place you need step into. The Tilbury Hotel has an outside space that few pubs can match, with long, raw wooden boards, big umbrellas to shade you during the day, and enough chairs to share with a few new friends in the evening. At night, carefully planned lighting provides just the right atmosphere to sit, chat and sink. If beer is not quite your thing, there's a wine list guaranteed to keep you entertained. 12/18 Nicholson Street, Woolloomooloo The Newport Arms If size is everything (and who says it isn't?), the Newport Arms wins hands down. This pub boasts the largest beer garden in not just Australia, but the entire southern hemisphere. We hear the pub's total capacity is up around five thousand people, and if you've paid a visit to the Newport Arms you won't doubt it. Add to these statistics the staggering views of Pittwater, a beautifully historic site (the pub dates from 1880) and twenty-six different beers on tap, and I'd say this is one watering hole well worth a visit. Once there, take your pick of the entertainments on offer. Work your way through the extensive wine menu. There's an 'outdoor theatre' screening sports footage. Classic pub meals are served up at the bistro and, while they're a little pricey, meal sizes are fair. Try your luck at the TAB or opt for a game of pool at the tables inside. Or if, like me, you're a person of simple pleasures, purchase a jug of beer, sit back and watch the world go by. 2 Kalinya Street, Newport Opera Bar A destination for tourists and locals alike, Opera Bar boasts the views of Sydney (the ones we all know from the postcards). If the outdoor seating could fairly be described as a 'beer garden', it would have to be one of the world's best. Behind you is the Opera House, ahead the Harbour Bridge, and between you is a table just waiting to be filled with glasses of your drink of choice. The Opera Bar's own OB pale ale is worth a taste, though the reasonably-priced wine menu, featuring a number of smaller local producers, is hard to go past. My pick? A Mojito ($17) to sip while I soak up the live jazz. You'll have plenty of time to make your choice. Unlike most outdoor bar areas, you can stay here until at least midnight every night of the week. Lower Concourse, Sydney Opera House Alexandria Hotel Known affectionately as 'the Alex', this unassuming pub is one of our favourite locals. The front bar has been left wonderfully untouched, with plenty of space to stand around and chew the fat. Once you've seen the beer garden, however, you won't want to be left standing around inside. It's the largest in the inner-city, equipped with assorted tropical plants and natives, a screen and a stage for entertainment purposes, and bucket-loads of good vibes. Aside from the drinks, there's well-priced bistro food, featuring a Veggie Burger ($15) with homemade pattie and $10 lunch specials during the week. Throughout the year, the pub hosts a program of special events. We'll be there for this year's screenings of the Eurovision Song Contest and attending Sunhaze, with the Future Classic DJs, on lazy Sunday afternoons. cnr Henderson Road and Garden Streets, Alexandria
There is a particular type of holiday-goer who makes decisions based on very specific details about the accommodation they intend to stay in. For some (more than you might think), that detail is an al fresco bath tub. Such a detail is one of many winning qualities of The Gully, one of four charming stays on the property of Budgee Budgee Farm located a 15 minute drive outside the centre of Mudgee in central west New South Wales. The Gully is an appealing one bedroom cottage nestled among the trees. The oeuvre of the lodgings is accessible antique charm — deep Prussian blue walls complement the timber floorboards and antique furnishings, vintage light fixtures and framed botanical illustrations on the walls. An antique bed frame of the cushy queen mattress is updated with fresh sheets, plump pillows and cosy throws. The cooler months are when the Mudgee is particularly compelling — when wine tastings, fireplaces and extended long weekends are all de rigueur. And The Gully is a mere ten minute's drive away from some of the best local vineyards, breweries and dining spots in the region. With that said, it's the onsite options that give this accommodation its allure. Case in point: the claw foot bath perched amid the trees on a platform, positioned specifically so bathers can take in a view of the dam and property while soaking. [caption id="attachment_904553" align="alignnone" width="1920"] The al fresco tub surrounded by bush forest.[/caption] There is also an indoor bathroom with shower, a fully stocked kitchen complete with a stove, crockery and a Nespresso machine. There's also an indoor wood-burning fireplace and an outdoor fire pit, ensuring your every move is kept flame-y and warm so long as you need the assistance of heat and atmosphere. Getting the different accommodations of Budgee Budgee Farm ready for guests was a labor of love and passion project for the group behind the property which includes the team behind Sydney-based design studio Worktones plus partners and friends. The result is as tastefully considered as you might anticipate. You can book The Gully at Budgee Budgee Farm on Airbnb. Image credit: Amber Creative Now you can book your next dream holiday through Concrete Playground Trips with deals on flights, stays and experiences at destinations everywhere.
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a local playing tourist, Sydney's energy is magnetic. It's not the kind of city you can tick off in one weekend — just when you think you've done it all, there's a surprise new basement bar to check out, a pop-up art show in a back alley gallery, or an up-and-coming chef serving a dish that'll knock your socks off. Sydney always delivers — and then some. If you're planning a weekend in the Harbour City, Marriott Bonvoy is offering 10% off your stay across six hotels — all you need to do is sign up to become a member (for free). It's also the perfect excuse to extend your stay. Haven't explored Sydney in a while? We've pulled together a hit list of new buzzy restaurants and bars, bathhouses, cultural experiences, and citywide sights to make your next visit one to remember. Sweat, Soak and Reset 1Remedy, Potts Point Following in the footsteps of European bathhouses, this sleek new sauna house in Potts Point is all about the ancient trifecta: sweat, plunge, reset. Founded by Dave Darvill, Dave Veksler and Tina Cha, 1Remedy is built for physical recovery and mental clarity. Think hot rock saunas, multiple temperature-controlled ice baths, ambient beats, an electrolyte bar, and even sauna hats to dial up the comfort. It's guided, stylish and social — designed for those who like their wellness with a bit of vibe. Soak, Alexandria Spanning 700 square metres, Soak isn't your average day spa. This chic communal bathhouse invites conversation and connection, not whispers and robe-shuffling. You'll find warm magnesium pools, infrared and dry cedarwood saunas, cold plunges and aromatic steam rooms. The best part? It's designed to be social — come with friends, soak as a crew, and leave feeling restored and recharged. AWAY Spa, Sydney CBD Tucked away inside one of Sydney's most dazzling hotels, the AWAY Spa at W Sydney is as luxe as you'd expect. Found in the heart of the CBD, this five-room sanctuary offers everything from facials and body scrubs to couples massages and mani-pedis. Designed for solo escapes or social sessions, it's the perfect prelude to checking in upstairs and making a full night of it — because nothing says self-care like a treatment followed by room service and a robe. Shop Shiny, New Designer Stores Monclear, Sydney CBD Modern French outerwear label Moncler has expanded its Sydney presence with a new flagship boutique at Westfield Sydney, flaunting a luxurious monochromatic fit-out. Designed by renowned Parisian studio Gilles & Boissier, the 313-square-metre space is awash with dramatic marble finishes and punctuated by striking sculptural accents. Equal parts fashion destination and architectural marvel, it's a must-visit for the style-savvy and design-curious alike. LOEWE, Sydney CBD Part art gallery, part fashion boutique, LOEWE's second Sydney store in the CBD is a visual and tactile experience. Designed by Jonathan Anderson and LOEWE's in-house team in Madrid, the space evokes the feel of an art collector's Mediterranean home, complete with glistening emerald and cobalt tiles, textured tapestries, and sculptural ceramics. It's an idyllic setting to shop for one of fashion's most coveted labels. Hot tip: Sydney's best designer shopping is just a short stroll from Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park. [caption id="attachment_906009" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Art Gallery of New South Wales, Jenni Carter[/caption] Explore Inspiring Exhibitions and Performances Sydney Modern, The Domain One of Sydney's most significant recent cultural openings, the Art Gallery of NSW's Sydney Modern, is a must for any Sydney itinerary. While it opened just over a year ago, its ever-evolving program of globally renowned contemporary art means there's always a reason to return. Designed for art and architecture aficionados alike, it's also Australia's first-ever public art museum to earn a six-star green rating. Don't miss The Tank — a repurposed World War II naval bunker reimagined into a 2,200 sqm subterranean gallery space dedicated to large-scale immersive installations. Keen to stay locally? Check into the Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel Circular Quay — just a short stroll from The Domain. 'Circle Mirror Transformation', Sydney Theatre Company Catch Circle Mirror Transformation, Pulitzer Prize-winner Annie Baker's acclaimed play at Sydney Theatre Company. Starring Aussie legends Rebecca Gibney and Cameron Daddo, the play tells the story of five strangers who sign up for an amateur acting class. What starts with awkward theatre games quickly unravels into something deeper — funny, raw, and painfully real. Directed by Dean Bryant (Dear Evan Hansen), this one-act gem playfully turns the ordinary into something quietly profound. Make a night of it with a stay at Pier One Sydney Harbour, only moments from the theatre. Phoenix, Chippendale Conceived by philanthropist and White Rabbit Gallery founder Judith Neilson, Phoenix Central Park is an architecturally striking, state-of-the-art performance space unlike anything else in Sydney. With a capacity of just 150, it delivers an intimate and immersive experience that breaks away from traditional theatre seating. Audiences spiral around the space, peering down on an eclectic lineup of performances spanning music, contemporary dance, spoken word and experimental sound. Tickets are free but allocated via an online ballot, adding a sense of exclusivity to this already elusive and enchanting venue. Head Outdoors And Soak Up The Sun Shark Beach, Neilson Park Sydney is brimming with glistening harbour beaches, but Shark Beach at Neilson Park might just take the cake as one of the city's most idyllic oases. Reopened in late 2024 after a three-year hiatus of seawall upgrades, this eastern suburbs gem boasts pristine parklands and a protected swimming area with calm water perfect for every level of swimmer. Nab a box of hot chips dusted with chicken salt from the newly revamped Kiosk, roll out a rug under the towering fig trees or hit the scenic Hermitage Walk that winds along the coastline back to the city. URBNSURF, Homebush Sure, Sydney has surf, but scoring a solid set, or even a spot on the sand, isn't always guaranteed. You might be circling for a park and bobbing around in your wetty for a while before the ultimate wave rolls in. URBNSURF, on the other hand, delivers perfect waves on demand. Set out west in Olympic Park, this high-tech surf park is a playground for surfers of all levels, offering consistent waves every single time. It's open seven days a week with eight types of surf lessons on offer, and is also home to RAFI — a coastal-inspired all-day restaurant with sweeping views of rolling, man-made swell. Dine and Dance 'Til Late Bar Freda's at The Abercrombie While Sydney's nightlife might have taken an unexpected hit a few years back (cheers to lockout laws and pandemics), it's bounced back bolder and better, thanks to a wave of hospitality heroes and community legends. Freda's at The Abercrombie is a shining example. Filling a gap in Sydney's late-night scene, Freda's serves a rotating menu of gourmet sandwiches, share plates, and pasta, all washed down with "fun drinks" like a fishbowl G&T, natty wines, and cold tinnies. And if you're partial to a dance floor? Freda's comes alive every Friday and Saturday night with DJs spinning tunes from 8pm 'til late. Ready to dance until dawn? Four Points by Sheraton Sydney at Central Park makes for a stylish base just around the corner. Book your Sydney escape before September 30 to access 10% off your stay and dining with Marriott Bonvoy. All you have to do is sign up as a member — and it's completely free. With access to exclusive member rates, your stay will also earn points towards free nights at over 30 hotel brands around the world. Find out more here. T&C's apply and vary by participating hotels including blackout dates, cancellation restrictions and more. Offer may not apply in properties not participating in the award and redemption of Marriott Bonvoy. By Elise Cullen
Sometimes tour news is so huge and demand for tickets is so feverish that the details change before anyone has even snapped up a ticket. It happened with blink-182's upcoming 2024 tour. It was the same with Lizzo's visit this past winter, and also with The Weeknd's forthcoming trip Down Under from November. Now, it's also proven the case with Zach Bryan's first-ever Australian gig. A Melbourne exclusive, Bryan's Aussie debut was set for St Kilda's Catani Gardens; however, organisers have swiftly realised that that space won't be big enough. So, before tickets even go on sale — with pre sales from 12pm AEDT on Thursday, October 5 and general sales from 12pm AEDT on Friday, October 6 — Bryan's gig has been moved to Flemington Racecourse. The date of the show is still the same: Saturday, December 9. That's when the 'Something in the Orange' singer and Oologah, Oklahoma native will hit the Victorian capital for statewide music celebration Always Live, which runs for 17 days — and also features Christina Aguilera doing a one-off Down Under show, plus exclusive Eric Prydz and Jai Paul gigs as well. Expect the biggest name in country music right now to give his 2022 American Heartbreak album a hefty spin when he takes the stage in Melbourne. Although he released two records prior — 2019's DeAnn and 2020's Elisabeth — his third album marked his major-label debut, and also the reason that Bryan has become such a sensation. Among Bryan's recent feats, American Heartbreak premiered in the top spot on America's Billboard 200. 'Something in the Orange' has now stayed in the charts longer than any single by a male country artist. In Australia, Bryan has earned that same achievement in the ARIA Top 50 Singles Chart for all country artists. And his streaming numbers? In excess of 6.8 billion worldwide. As he's been taking his American Heartbreak tour around the US — including stops at Lollapalooza and Austin City Limits — Bryan has been smashing attendance records, too. So, the Melbourne change of venue isn't that surprising. In his first Australian stint, he'll also have tracks from his latest album to play, with the self-titled Zach Bryan releasing in August. Among the tunes: collaborations with Kacey Musgraves, The Lumineers, The War and Treaty, and Sierra Ferrell. Being brought Down Under by Untitled Group, which is also behind Beyond The Valley, Pitch Music & Arts, Grapevine Gathering, Wildlands and Ability Fest, Bryan's just-announced spot on the Always Live bill is his only currently scheduled gig in Australia. The statewide music celebration's full lineup includes more than 165 artists at 60-plus events — all, of course, in Victoria. Always Live 2023 runs from Friday, November 24–Sunday, December 10, with one pre-festival gig on Saturday, October 14. For more information, and to get tickets, head to the festival website. Zach Bryan will play Flemington Racecourse on Saturday, December 9, with pre sales from 12pm AEDT on Thursday, October 5 and general sales from 12pm AEDT on Friday, October 6.
One of 2023's most-anticipated films may not play in many Australian cinemas, but it will enjoy its Aussie premiere at Sydney's biggest moviegoing occasion of the year. That flick: Strange Way of Life, the latest work by inimitable Spanish filmmaker Pedro Almodóvar (Parallel Mothers). It's a 30-minute short, hence the fact that it may not show on too many big screens Down Under — and it's also a queer western starring Ethan Hawke (Moon Knight) and Pedro Pascal (The Last of Us). Almodóvar? Hawke? Pascal? Queer western? Yes, that's Strange Way of Life, which is why it's such a must-see. It'll make its Australian debut at this year's Sydney Film Festival, heading to our shores straight from premiering at Cannes, and joining the fest's already stacked lineup and hefty array of titles that first bowed at the prestigious French event. In this bite-sized film, Sheriff Jake (Hawke) and rancher Silva (Pascal) share a history, working together as hired gunmen a quarter-century ago. Then, circumstances bring them back together; however, a reunion isn't the only reason they've crossed paths again. "The strange way of life referred in the title alludes to the famous fado by Amalia Rodrigues, whose lyrics suggest that there is no stranger existence than the one that is lived by turning your back on your own desires," explains Almodóvar. [caption id="attachment_904684" align="alignnone" width="1920"] HyperFocal: 0[/caption] Strange Way of Life will play for one session only, on the festival's closing day of Sunday, June 18 — the same date that Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, which also initially premiered at Cannes, will take the official closing-night slot. "Sydney Film Festival is delighted to offer our audiences this exclusive Australian-premiere screening of Strange Way of Life. We wanted to offer something truly special to help close out our 70th anniversary Festival, and what could beat the closing lineup of the 2023 Palm d'Or winner Anatomy of a Fall, master auteur Pedro Almodóvar's much hyped western short and then finally the Australian Premiere of Indiana Jones and The Dial of Destiny?" said Sydney Film Festival Director Nashen Moodley. Tickets to Strange Way of Life cost just $10, and are bound to sellout fast. Check out the trailer for Strange Way of Life below: Sydney Film Festival 2023 runs from Wednesday, June 7–Sunday, June 18 at various Sydney cinemas — head to the festival website for further information and tickets.
"Once upon a time there was a little girl who was trapped. This is the story of her great escape." So begins the trailer for the latest version of a Roald Dahl classic, the book-to-stage-to-screen Matilda the Musical — and it's bringing its imaginative story about an extraordinary child, her impressive abilities and her horrible school to Netflix on Christmas Day. For the past few years, the streaming platform has been obsessed with one very particular golden ticket that Matilda the Musical springs from: the beloved works of British author Dahl. Back in 2018, Netflix announced that it was bringing 16 of the writer's classic novels to the service in animated form. And, it revealed that there'd be two new series from Taika Waititi based on Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, too. In 2021, it also advised that it had snapped up the Roald Dahl Story Company (RDSC) itself. So, plenty of Dahl-penned tales are now getting the Netflix treatment, with the service's library set to expand in a big way. That spans everything from Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator, Matilda and The Twits, all as animated television shows, plus The BFG, Esio Trot, George's Marvellous Medicine, The Enormous Crocodile, The Giraffe and the Pelly and Me, Henry Sugar, Billy and the Minpins, The Magic Finger, Dirty Beasts and Rhyme Stew. Yes, it's a long list — and yes, Matilda the Musical is obviously on it. [caption id="attachment_873641" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Roald Dahl's Matilda the Musical. Alisha Weir as Matilda Wormwood in Roald Dahl's Matilda the Musical. Cr. Dan Smith/Netflix © 2022[/caption] If you've seen the Tony and Olivier award-winning show in theatres since 2010 — complete with original music and lyrics by Tim Minchin — you'll know what's in store. If you read the novel before that, you'll also already have plenty of fondness everyone's favourite book-loving schoolgirl with telekinetic abilities. In the movie as onstage, the narrative remains the same as Dahl's original 1988 text, but with songs and tunes that are all supremely on its wavelength. Once again, Matilda Wormwood (Alisha Weir, Darklands) is a curious, bright, quiet, observant and imaginative girl — and tiny — but has terrible parents (Venom: Let There Be Carnage's Stephen Graham and Amsterdam's Andrea Riseborough). So, she escapes into novels as they feast on TV and try to stump up cash via dodgy schemes. But that isn't welcomed by her mum and dad, in her first lesson in being bullied — something that, at school, Matilda will no longer stand for. [caption id="attachment_873640" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Roald Dahl's Matilda the Musical. Alisha Weir as Matilda Wormwood in Roald Dahl's Matilda the Musical. Cr. Dan Smith/Netflix © 2022[/caption] At Crunchem Hall, Matilda finds a source of support and inspiration in Miss Honey (Lashana Lynch, No Time to Die), but it's also where the star student meets another foe. That'd be the villainous Miss Trunchbull (Emma Thompson, Good Luck to You, Leo Grande), who is as mean as can be — and needs Matilda to teach her a lesson. Minchin's songs and lyrics make the jump to the movie version, of course, while Tony Award-winning director Matthew Warchus — who did the honours with Matilda the Musical on the stage — helms. And yes, this is the second movie based on Dahl's Matilda, after a 1996 version initially adapted the book for cinema (not as a musical, though), and featured Mara Wilson as the titular character. Check out the full trailer for Matilda the Musical below: Matilda the Musical will be available to stream via Netflix on December 25. Images: Dan Smith/Netflix © 2022.
To the uninitiated, costume shops and sports might seem like an odd pairing. But to anyone who has ever been to a Rugby Sevens tournament, you'll know that there's just something about dressing up as a Smurf that makes the competitive, festival atmosphere of the event that much more addictive. This February, when the best international players of Rugby Sevens descend on Parramatta for the HSBC Sydney 7s, the last thing you want is to be the only person at the party without a killer costume. So, we've pulled together a list of seven of Sydney's most well-stocked costumeries to get you all decked out for the big event. These joints will have you covered from masks to Mad Hatter get-ups — there's no particular theme this time around, so you've got free reign on your fancy dress outfit (but let's steer clear of cultural appropriation).
In Stay of the Week, we explore some of the world's best and most unique accommodations — giving you a little inspiration for your next trip. In this instalment, we take you inside the Berry View Hotel. This utterly charming boutique hotel is brimming with winning mid-Century design detail and takes inspiration from 1950s drive-in motels and Palm Springs bungalows. Located in Berry on the south coast of New South Wales, it's the perfect spot for a smug weekend away — and right now when you book your stay here you'll get an exclusive rate and a bottle of wine to start your stay with a toast. Cheers to that. WHAT'S SO SPECIAL? This hotel has been lovingly designed with the principles and aesthetic of Mid-Century Modern design at every element. The impeccably tasteful, minimalist decor and fresh white and pumpkin exterior make this little pocket of Berry feel as thought it's time travelled to the swinging Sixties. THE ROOMS Calming, cool and curated are the vibe of the rooms, each of which has its own individual styling. The devil is in the design detail — a beautiful vase, bespoke light fitting or a velour single-seater sofa add personality to each of the bedrooms, which come in bedding configurations for couples on a romantic weekend away or a family-friendly setup with a queen bed and a bunk. The bathrooms feature full sized bathing products by O&M so there's zero need to bring your own. Each room also comes with Nespresso coffee machine and pods for your caffeine requirements before you venture out to enjoy the best of Berry's charming town centre which is a short stroll from the hotel. FOOD AND DRINK Rooms at the Berry View include all your critical amenities like a kettle and the aforementioned coffee machine, tea, coffee and milk. But when you're in Berry you need to get out and experience the local talent. The historic Berry Hotel has great regional pub energy. Milkwood Bakery does superb woodfired sourdough, great coffee and a banger apple tart for the dessert-inclined. And there's the famous Berry Donut Van is responsible for what might be a serious contender for best cinnamon donut in the country. For a more luxurious and lengthy lunch or dinner option, SOUTH on Albany and Queen Street Eatery are both great options combining impressive food with laidback vibes and stellar service. THE EXTRAS When you book here through CP Trips, the lovely crew at the Berry View Hotel will welcome you with a complimentary bottle of shiraz or prosecco to celebrate your good fortune. 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.
UPDATE: MAY 13, 2020 — Carbón is reopening for dine-in service from Friday, May 15. It's taking bookings of up to ten people per 1.5-hour sitting, available from 5pm, 6.45pm and 8.50pm. On Saturdays and Sundays, it's also offering bottomless tacos and margaritas for $79 per person, with sittings at 12pm, 1.45pm and 3.30pm. To book, call (02) 9365 6092, email info@carbonmexican.com.au or direct message via Instagram. It is currently offering Mexican food and cocktails for pick up or delivery, too. You can order online here. The owners of cosy Mexican joint Taqiza have expanded their Bondi offering. They've taken over the old Rum Diaries space along Bondi Road and have opened Carbón — a new hacienda-inspired Mexican restaurant that focuses on all things woodfired. Chefs and owners Pablo Galindo Vargas and Liber Osorio know a thing or two about Mexican cooking, having been born and raised in Mexico City. "At Carbón, we wanted to rescue the indigenous culinary elements of our backgrounds, going back to our roots to create a menu full of flavours, colours and textures while maintaining the integrity and sustainability of the produce," says Vargas. The venue complements Bondi's laid-back vibes with a beachy fitout that is meant to be reminiscent of a Caribbean hacienda. While Taqiza is an intimate venue, Carbón boasts a large open space with a full kitchen that centres around their brand new, woodfire grill — which is fitting considering the restaurant's name translates to 'charcoal' in Spanish. The dishes pay homage to traditional Latin American parrilla (barbecuing) techniques, with the open charcoal fire used for cooking tortillas, heating underground ovens and boiling soups or sauces. Carbón also focuses on fresh produce that can be enriched with the use of charcoal. The interactive share menu centres on make-your-own tacos, with options including Hampshire suckling pig with achiote adobo and Seville oranges, as well as roasted lamb shoulder with chipotle citrus yoghurt. Regular specials will be on offer, too, like the charcoal sealed tuna sashimi with finger lime, tiger's milk (aka citrusy ceviche marinade), sweet potato chips and salmon caviar. At the bar, the drinks menu is — unsurprisingly — focused on tequila and mezcal. Cocktails like the Bondi Sunset (mezcal, elderflower liquor, lime juice and mandarin) and the Oaxacan Pink Lad (mezcal, brandy, lemon juice, agave syrup and aquafaba) are just the start.
Long before the peri-peri craze reached its peak in Australia, Frango had been serving up Portuguese-style charcoal chicken for well over a decade. With its first store opening in Petersham in 1989, the family-run business has just launched its 16th Sydney location, bringing its marinated goodness to the Shire for the first time. Opening the doors in Caringbah on Wednesday, September 24, the founding Fernandes family remains at the helm, resisting a franchise model for something a little more personal. With the lineage migrating from Madeira in Portugal to Angola in Africa, this heritage still rings through its brand of spice and smoke. "We are so proud to finally open our first Shire outpost in Caringbah. Offering our fan favourites along with the launch of our new expanding fried chicken menu and healthy wrap options menu, there really is something for the entire family," says husband and wife directors, Luis and Rima Fernandes. Spanning whole charcoal chickens and vibrant salads to barbecue sweet corn, Frango regulars will know that burgers are the star of the show. The OG Portuguese burger combo remains the go-to order, with creamy mayo and signature chilli sauce making for a flavourful kick. Plus, desserts like Portuguese tarts and crème caramel make for an even more indulgent visit. "We don't have a central kitchen either, unlike our peers in the industry, which means all our food is prepared daily on each site and displayed for our customers to have a truly gourmand experience — it doesn't get any fresher than that!" says Luis and Rima. With the grills and fryers now pumping out big flavours on the daily in Caringbah, Frango is looking ahead to another round of new store openings. While details are being kept hush-hush, expect a Brisbane and Melbourne expansion to be on the cards in the near future. Frango Caringbah is now open daily from 10am–9pm at 344 Kingsway, Caringbah. Head to the website for more information.
Arcadia Unbound has a large and incredibly loyal following — and for a good reason. The store has moved locations a few times but owner Garry Einstein has been working in the comic book sphere since the 90s. Incredibly knowledgeable and true fans of the art form, the team at Arcadia Unbound are friendly, approachable and happy to point you in whatever direction your particular tastes take you. The store has a great selection of comics, action figures, trading cards and other pop culture paraphernalia and, most importantly, very reasonable prices. For those who still enjoy physically flicking through comics, Arcadia Unbound is a true gem of find.
Time really must be fleeting because the Rocky Horror Show is celebrating its 50th birthday. Since making its stage debut in 1973 from maestro Richard O'Brien (and a beloved film adaptation in 1975), the show had a meteoric rise in popularity. Now, it's coming to Australia for a 50th anniversary tour in 2023 starting at the Theatre Royal Sydney in February. In case you're among those who haven't had the pleasure of viewing this rock 'n' roll masterpiece: It follows a squeaky-clean young couple who experience car troubles while driving on a remote highway and walk to a nearby castle to find help. Waiting in that castle is a mad scientist, his mad staff and an even madder creation. You've almost certainly heard of it before since the musical alone has had over 30 million viewers worldwide. This run will see Neighbours legend Jason Donovan take the lead as Dr Frank-N-Furter, plus Ethan Jones (9 to 5 The Musical) and Deirdre Khoo (Once) as the couple in question, Brad and Janet. The cast also includes Myf Warhurst as The Narrator, Ellis Dolan (School of Rock) as Eddie/Dr Scott, Darcey Eagle (Cruel Intentions: The 90s Musical) as Columbia, Loredo Malcolm (Hamilton) as Rocky and Henry Rollo (Jagged Little Pill the Musical) as Riff Raff. So jump to the left, take a step to the right, and then head to the website to secure tickets — because they're already on sale. If you didn't get the references, you should put this production on your list. The Rocky Horror Show opens in the Theatre Royal Sydney on Tuesday, February 14. Visit the website for more information and to secure tickets.
Pino's Vino e Cucina isn't your average neighbourhood restaurant. Tucked away in the residential backstreets of Alexandria, this venture from Matteo Margiotta (ex-Blackstar Pastry) is an homage to his Italian heritage. The menu features traditional Italian fare with a twist; scallops served with baby gem, prosciutto and cauliflower cream are joined on the antipasti menu by oysters with a watermelon and cabernet sauvignon vinegar sorbet. Handmade pasta dominates the main menu, so you'll want to dine with those who don't mind sharing because picking just one is nearly impossible. You'll also find duck, fish and a one kilo black angus fiorentina ($98) if you're after some protein. Named after Margiotta's father, the eatery strives for a local, family feel and features hanging copper pots that were shipped over from the family house in Rome. Perhaps most compelling is that all the timber used to fit-out the restaurant — most evident in the luxe L-shaped bar that runs the length of the main dining area — was recycled from houses lost to the WestConnex development. Whether you're a resident of Alexandria or not, you'll want to make Pino's your new local.
The Museum of Contemporary Art remains the place to be on the last Friday of the month when MCA ARTBAR takes over the gallery with an adults-only party of art, music, design and performance. Each month is curated by a different artist, making the series an ever-changing yet constant facet in Sydney's after-dark culture scene. For the final ARTBAR of the year, taking place this Friday, November 30, the museum has enlisted Hoda Afshar as curator. The Melbourne-based artist, who primarily works with photography and moving image, is one of the artists featured in this year's Primavera — the MCA's annual exhibition celebrating young Australian talent. The collection of work investigates identity through a social, political and cultural lens — and the Friday night event will delve even further into this theme. Elyas Alavi will kick things off at 7pm with his performance art piece I Wish Grapes Would Ripen, which explores his lived experience as a Hazara refugee. And then, you're free to roam around the museum. Video works from Walter Bakowski on spirituality and Payam Mofidi on political power structures will be interspersed with immersive live performances; Léuli Eshraghi will lead a healing ceremony while Alexandra Talamo explores Latin-American migrant experiences through choreography. You'll also have an opportunity to speak to journalist Behrouz Boochani, who has been detained on Manus Island since 2013, via WhatsApp in real time. And, if all of this art has got your creative juices flowing, there'll be collaborative bookmaking with Isabella Capezio and a portrait drawing workshop with Abdul Abdullah. When you need a breather, head to the terrace for a classic negroni and music from DJ Wael-X, and cheers the end of the work week. Images: Leslie Liu, Sam Whiteside, Jacqui Manning.
If, like us, you're trying your best to ditch single-use plastic, then we have good news — this new company aims to help you do just that. Returnr is a new line of reusable takeaway food packaging that's partnering with restaurants, cafes and Deliveroo locations across Australia. And it wants to help put an end to disposable packing altogether. Created by KeepCup co-founder Jamie Forsyth, the stainless-steel bowls and cups are marketed towards takeaway cafes and restaurants and food delivery services. They are 100-percent recyclable and designed to be regularly reused. And it looks like Forsyth's push toward sustainable food service practices is already working — since launching on a trial basis in Melbourne during late-2018, over 85,000 single-use plastic bowls have purportedly been saved from landfill. Here's how it works: order from a participating restaurant (either in-person or via Deliveroo) and pay a $6 deposit fee for a Returnr bowl or cup. Return the container to a partner venue within the network, and you'll get your deposit back. While Returnr is still in early stages, the product has big plans for the coming months, with a national expansion on the docket and more products launching soon, too. At the moment, there are three participating venues in Sydney (Belles Hot Chicken Barangaroo, Regiment and Lize + Bath), one in Hobart and a whopping 28 in Melbourne (including Hanoi Hannah Elsternwick and Windsor, Belles Hot Chicken CBD and Tokyo Tina) — eight of which are also partnered with Deliveroo. Keep an eye on this space, as we reckon you'll be seeing Returnr in many more CBD locations by the end of 2019. Find Returnr at 34 partner venues across Sydney, Melbourne and Hobart. Keep an eye out for new ones launching soon.
There is a yin and yang equilibrium to food trends — as our penchant for green smoothies and raw vegan treats grows, a corresponding demand for finger-lickin' fried chicken emerges. It's all about balance. And providing the wings-and-drumsticks side to that balance are places like Belle's Hot Chicken. Belle's set up its first ever home in Melbourne back in 2014, and has since taken poultry fans by storm, with Sydney stores in Barangaroo and Tramsheds. Get stuck into chicken drumsticks ($19), tenders ($20) and and spicy chicken sandwiches ($14.50), or if you're feeling particularly extra, max out with the "Baller Bucket" ($70) complete with sixteen wings and your choice of four sides and four sauces. They also have a killer lineup of drinks, from funky wines and top shelf spirits, to the newly launched boozy slushies and Belles' very own draught beer, created with Adelaide brewers Pirate Life. [caption id="attachment_677689" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Nikki To[/caption] Top image: Kitti Gould
The crew behind many of Sydney's top watering holes has turned its attention toward takeaway spirits with a sleek new bottle shop. Barrelhouse Group is the acclaimed hospo team who have previously served up The Duke of Clarence, Hickson House Distilling Co, The Barber Shop — and now, Barrelhouse Cellas, an intimate hybrid bottle-o, tasting room and deli. Carved into the iconic sandstone streets of The Rocks, Barrelhouse Cellars has taken over a historic George Street building. The site was built and operated as The King's Tavern from the 1840s to the early 1900s before being used as The Salvation Army Naval and Military Home, the home of the Tung Wah Times and the base for the NSW Ambulance Service in the years since. In-store, you'll find a huge range of spirits and aperitifs, with special consideration given to local distillers and boundary-pushing makers. Expect the full range of Hickson House gin, plus plenty of craft beers, new-world whiskies, local vodkas and bottled cocktails. Joining the booze is a stack of tasty meats, cheeses and tinned goodies to elevate your night at home. You'll be spoilt for choice — and if you can't reach a decision, there are individual tastings of both the drinks and snacks on offer in order to help you come to the perfect conclusion. Plus, store manager and hospitality veteran Nick Minogue is pulling together themed flights so that you can expand your pallet. Head in on the right day and you'll also be greeted by a series of Meet the Maker sessions. The shop has already hosted its inaugural event, inviting Nashdale Lane in to run a tasting of its cool-climate vino. Keep an eye out on the store's Instagram for future sessions. "The Cellars is the next stage of our longer-term vision for The Rocks," said Barrelhouse Group Founders Julian Train and Mikey Enright. "We wanted to create an accessible, inviting, local bottle shop; drawing on our hospitality experience to add a few features we couldn't find elsewhere. The paved tasting courtyard is particularly special. Come down soon to grab a sip and a bottle." If you can't make it in but you're on the hunt for something particular, check the Barrelhouse Cellars website. The bottle shop offers nationwide delivery and same-day delivery for Sydneysiders. Barrelhouse Cellars is open at 73 George Street, The Rocks. It's open 10am–8pm Monday–Wednesday and Saturday, 10am–9pm Friday and 10am–6pm Sunday.
In 2023, South Eveleigh scored a bustling hub focused on nurturing the needs of its local community, thanks to the 107 Project crew. Situated along Davy Road, this all-encompassing creative centre is the third of its kind to land in Sydney. Following in the footsteps of the 107 Project's previously established locations in Green Square and Redfern, 107 South Eveleigh is home to a range of inclusive, creativity-focused projects. At the forefront of the 107 Project's ethos is the provision of an improved and affordable stomping ground for the locals to enjoy. As a result, the inner-city suburb's sleek precinct hopes to cater to its surrounding community's needs by investing in events and programs focused on accommodating diversity, social equity and artistic expression. In order to achieve this, the hub provides an expansive space to host up to 200 guests for a variety of community-focused initiatives, including community programs, corporate events, exhibitions and cultural festivals. As the not-for-profit organisation's third localised centre, 107 Project has launched this site in partnership with the Social Enterprise Council of NSW, ACT (SECNA) and with support from its neighbours at Commbank, with hopes to operate the site as an open-plan innovation precinct in the near future. Expect to find live music, grassroots theatre, informative workshops and everything in between. Head to the precinct's website to check out what's coming up.
Maybe Sammy is not only on our list of the best bars in Sydney — it's on just about everyone else's too, including anyone who gives out bar awards. It was named in the top 50 bars in the world in 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022 — and named the Best Bar in Australasia at The World's 50 Best Bars in all four years. Back in 2019, it was also named the Best International New Cocktail Bar at the 2019 Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards in New Orleans. It was even named the Best International Bar Team at the Tales of the Cocktail 2022 Spirited Awards. The accolades come hard and fast. And it's clear to see why. The team, led by Creative Director Martin Hudak, has created one of the most spectacular cocktail menus — ranging from mini cocktails to the martini trolleys and extra opulent Premium Pours made from some of the finest spirits in the world. Its coffee cocktails are also that extra bit special. There's a total of five different versions, including the classic Espresso Martini made with vodka, Mr Black coffee liqueur and a shot of espresso and the Irish Coffee made from Irish whiskey, Honduras Montecillos coffee, muscovado, honey, almonds and cream — this last one being the perfect dessert cocktail. Head to Maybe Sammy for one of these bad boys after dining elsewhere in The Rocks. And if you want to try Maybe Sammy but don't live in Sydney, it also sends a series of bottled cocktails all over Australia. Go for the Jasmine Negroni, Eucalyptus Gimlet or Chamomile Martini. They also make a great present for your cocktail-loving pals. A team with this many awards isn't going to let you go hungry either. The food menu comes equipped with the expected range of bar snacks done to the highest standard, including Sydney rock oysters, truffled cheese toasties, tinned fish and mortadella focaccia. The Maybe Sammy experience is complete with a fit-out that emulates a high-end hotel bar. Designed by Sydney's LD Studio, the space is opulent, with pink velvet banquettes, gold lamps, brass fittings, marble tiles and lots of indoor plants. You can pop into Maybe Sammy for happy hour and taste your way through the mini cocktails or go full on treat 'yoself by ordering the extra spenny tipples — the likes of which you will not find anywhere else in Australia. Either way, you'll see why the team have won so many local and international bar awards. Drink up. Images: DS Oficina Updated Tuesday, March 21, 2023. Appears in: The Best Bars in Sydney
If there's one summer drink that never goes out of style, it's the margarita. With its salted rim and smooth tequila, it's the ultimate warm-weather classic, made for long afternoons with friends. To celebrate that feeling, Tequila Herradura (which has been crafting tequila for 150 years) is teaming up with some of Australia's favourite bars to put their unique spins on the classic cocktail. Below, find venues across Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane to enjoy the summer of margaritas before the season departs. Sydney Tios Cerveceria Described as Surry Hills' home of tequila, Tios Cerveceria offers a curated margarita menu designed for long summer nights. There are hundreds of agave-based tipples available to choose from, including their beloved $10 house marg, and each drink comes with a free bag of perfectly spiced popcorn. With multiple flavours on offer, margarita connoisseurs will be in heaven. Cantina OK! Described as a "micro mezcal mecca", Cantina OK! is a must-take pilgrimage for margarita fans. With a highly curated menu, Cantina OK! is a hole-in-the-wall in the centre of the city, stocking hand-sourced and hand-imported agave spirits. Enjoy their famous margaritas, served over hand-shaved ice with fresh limes. Delicious. [caption id="attachment_1071716" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Mark Sherborne[/caption] Uncanny Bar Known for its inventive cocktail list, King Street's Uncanny Bar is family-run and serves one of Sydney's most unique margaritas: The Julio Ricter, which comes complete with a za'atar rim. If you're looking for a margarita with a sharp twist, head to Uncanny in Newtown. [caption id="attachment_1071713" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Mark Sherborne[/caption] Monica Rooftop For margaritas with a view, head to Monica Rooftop at 25hours Hotel The Olympia in Paddington. With its elevated setting and high-energy atmosphere, it's built for sunset drinks in the city. Enjoy share-style plates with your friends and sip on Monica's Picante Margarita, featuring fermented jalapeño, lime, and habanero bitters. Melbourne [caption id="attachment_1071726" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Dylan Kindermann[/caption] George on Collins A CBD crowd-pleaser with a slick fit-out, George on Collins is a modern Asian fusion restaurant and a reliable spot for a margarita. Expect a polished take on the cocktail that suits long lunches, after-work drinks, and pre-dinner date aperitifs. Bar Ampere Looking for a late-night haunt this summer? Bar Ampere, a Parisian-inspired cocktail bar in Russel Place, is serving margaritas until 3am. It's take on the classic drink leans more sophisticated than sunny, but it's a great late-night option for those long, spontaneous summer nights. Repeat Offender Down in Elwood, Repeat Offender is a neighbourhood favourite that's known for good cocktails without the fuss. Their margarita menu alone is a page long, so you know you'll find something that will hit the spot. Pair your margarita with Repeat Offender's delicious Mexican-inspired dishes. Brisbane [caption id="attachment_1071763" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Adrian McConnell[/caption] The Alligator Club If you find yourself in Fortitude Valley thirsty for a marg, head to The Alligator Club. The late-night hot spot plays live music every single night and serves bar snacks, including pinza (hand-pressed pizza), alongside a mean margarita. It's one of the Valley's best after-dark hangouts. [caption id="attachment_1071760" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Adrian McConnell[/caption] Stratton Bar & Kitchen Situated in two World War II hangars in Newstead, Stratton Bar & Kitchen blends laid-back Brisbane dining with a comprehensive drinks list. Don't go past their coconut marg, which features their own signature coconut salt rim. It's a venue designed for group catch-ups and fun nights out. [caption id="attachment_1071758" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Adrian McConnell[/caption] CRU Bar & Cellar Not all margaritas should be drunk in dingy bars. CRU Bar & Cellar in Brisbane's trendy James Street is a go-to for an elevated margarita that hits the sweet spot. The restaurant offers both a multi-course dining experience and afternoon cocktails and snacks if you're after something lighter. Whether you like your margaritas with some spice or in an elevated dining setting, the Summer of Margs is your excuse to try some of Australia's favourites. Find a venue to experience a Tequila Herradura margarita. 18+. Please drink responsibly.
As Parramatta continues its rapid transformation into Sydney's second CBD, it now has an incredible spot where visitors can admire soaring views. Named the Dixon Park Escarpment Lookout, this picturesque locale was once an unused piece of parkland waiting for the right opportunity to come along. Set opposite Parramatta Quay on a perfectly positioned clifftop, this choice perspective captures the ever-changing skyline and panoramas stretching along the Parramatta River. Situated at Stewart Street Reserve on the northern side of the river, the new lookout features a modern cantilevered platform designed with safety and accessibility in mind. Featuring comfy seating, paved pathways, all-new landscaping and communal gathering spaces, the $1.4 million development hopes to promote easygoing relaxation, celebration, reflection and enjoyment in a picture-perfect setting. "Some of the world's most visited cities have spectacular viewing points and now Parramatta has joined the list with our new lookout providing panoramic views of our city and the river stretching from Gasworks Bridge to Lennox Bridge," says Cr Martin Zaiter, City of Parramatta Lord Mayor. Just the latest update to take place in Parramatta, the Dixon Park Escarpment Lookout adds to a flurry of building activity in the area. Adding to the Escarpment Boardwalk and the recently completed Charles Street Square and Parramatta Quay, the city's forward-thinking approach has seen these projects take home a fistful of landscape design and architectural awards recently. "Parramatta is one of Sydney's fastest growing LGAs and it is vital that open space areas such as Dixon Park are supported so the local community have a place to relax and play," says Paul Scully, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces. "This project has breathed much-needed life into what was previously an under-utilised reserve and will directly benefit more than 2,100 homes located within a 10-minute walk of the new lookout." With the lookout adding an exciting new element to this little-visited spot, transforming such a space into a scenic cultural destination helps make the community all the more vibrant. Whether you're keen to snap a few shots for your Insta or need of a stunning wedding photography location that hasn't been done to death, expect visitors from near and far to flock to this spot for sunrises, sunsets and celebratory fireworks. The Dixon Park Escarpment Lookout is found near the Stewart Street entrance. Head to the website for more information. Images: Jason Nichols
Things are looking bright in the centre of Australia — not only thanks to Uluru's stunning Field of Light installation, which has been illuminating the Red Centre for the past two years, but also courtesy of the annual Parrtjima – A Festival In Light. When the latter first kicked off back in 2016, it became the nation's first Indigenous festival of its kind and unveiled the country's biggest-ever light installation. Now it's back for another luminous outing in 2018. Taking place between September 28 and October 7 at the Alice Springs Desert Park, Parrtjima – A Festival in Light returns with its another big feat: its biggest program yet. The focal point is the fest's ten nights of light installations, all crafted by Aboriginal artists and set against the MacDonnell Ranges. Attendees can feast their eyes on a light show that spans along more than two kilometres of the land mass, with this year's theme "from sunset to sunrise" — or walk across projections on the desert sands, wander among large-scale sculptures and mosey through a tunnel of light. An interactive experience also allows visitors to select a series of colours, then see their choices brighten up the bush using more than 500 LEDs. In addition, this year's event will also feature a second showcase of light in the Todd Mall, complete with a new installation about the area's caterpillar dreaming stories. It forms part of the festival's second hub, with curator Rhoda Roberts' program of music, film, dance performances and talks spread across the festival's two sites. Music-wise, that includes headliners Electric Fields, who'll play against the stunning scenic backdrop of the MacDonnell Ranges. The Tinkerbee Dancers lead the dance component, while a nightly cinema program will showcase local and national filmmakers. And for those so entranced by the lights — understandably — that they want to know more, Parrtjima's Behind the Lights session will feature Roberts, the festival's lighting designer Richard Neville and AGB Events project director Rodney Cambridge chatting about their glowing creations. The 2018 event marks Parrtjima's third instalment — and while it'll be back for a fourth in 2019, it's heading to a new timeslot. If you're planning a trip next year rather than this year, mark April 5–14 in your calendars. Parrtjima – A Festival in Light runs from September 28 to October 7 in the Alice Springs Desert Park, Alice Springs, Northern Territory. For more information, visit the festival website.
Chatswood just scored a big infusion of contemporary Chinese flavour, with elegant newcomer Mama Mulan opening its doors this week. Located in The Concourse, the 180-seater makes quite the impression, with its restaurant, bar and private dining areas boasting striking interiors by creative agency DS17. To match the polished, modern aesthetic, the kitchen is dishing up a culinary exploration of China, delivered through a mix of traditional techniques and new-school flair. Chef Marble Ng (Lotus, Chef's Gallery) has pulled together an approachable menu full of tightly executed dishes from a range of Chinese provinces. Wok-fried lobster is dressed in the restaurant's secret Szechuan sauce, dandan noodle soup is made with noodles hand-pulled before your eyes and roasted lamb ribs are cooked Mongolian style. The addition of duck drives a san choi bao into modern territory, while the Mama Mulan fried rice is supercharged with asparagus, wagyu beef and XO sauce. If you decide to look to the tanks for inspiration, pick out a live mud (or snow) crab and order it typhoon shelter-style, piled high with dried chilli and black beans. Headlining the dessert offering is a range of signature fried ice cream flavours, created in collaboration with Sydney's famed dessert masters, Duo Duo. A hefty selection of Chinese booze, clever cocktails and international beer rounds out the fun. Mama Mulan is now open at Level 1, The Concourse, Chatswood.
Think of Box Hill's cuisine, and you'll most likely picture the best Chinese food in Melbourne. With its large Asian population, the Eastern suburb is a mecca for world-class noodles, soups and dumplings. But, after living in Box Hill for over a decade, hospitality veteran Sam Hatherley identified a gap in his neighbourhood and, in 2024, opened the cafe and bistro, UNA UNA. "Can you imagine a hidden bistro tucked under an apartment building in Box Hill, run by ex-hatted restaurant staff? We wanted to bring something fresh," Sam says. "[UNA UNA has] modern European-style, semi-fine-dining dishes with seasonal menus and thoughtful, unhurried service." Local Influence To ease into the suburb and build rapport with locals, Sam launched UNA UNA as a cafe by day, serving focaccia sandwiches, coffee, and specialty drinks and a bistro by night on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. "For many of our bistro customers, their first experience was actually trying our sandwiches. It's a great way to connect with the neighbourhood during the day, give people a chance to get to know us, and create a natural introduction to the bistro experience in the evenings." For nearly a century, Box Hill was deemed a dry zone. A hangover from Australia's temperance movement, the laws required residents to vote for a liquor licence to be granted to a new restaurant or venue, with residents facing fines if they failed to vote. As a result, Sam found that there was a gap for a bistro that offers quality cocktails and a relaxed drinking experience. The cocktail menu at UNA UNA is just that. Simple yet refined, reflecting Sam's 20 years of experience, including a stint in Japan. During the day, guests can sip from hand-shaken Italian Whipped Coffee Cream, Whipped Orange Coffee, and house-made Almond Lemon Soda and Walnut Cola. The specialty drinks are creative and refreshing, crafted with the same care and attention as the evening cocktails. From Little Things Like many people in hospitality, Sam always dreamt of opening his own place. "Nothing huge, just a small spot that really felt like me." The seeds of UNA UNA becoming a reality first emerged during COVID, when Sam stepped away from the fast-paced, relentless industry where he worked as a chef and bartender to become a stay-at-home dad. "I loved working in hatted restaurants and bars, but the pace is intense, and most nights I'd be getting home around 2 am," Sam reflects. "I realised I wanted to be more present for my family, and if I didn't start the bistro I'd been imagining for years, I might never do it. It just felt like the right moment to finally build something of my own." The result is restaurant-quality food in a casual bistro setting. "With the rising cost of living, people are more cautious about spending, so I didn't want UNA UNA to be a fine-dining restaurant with a big price tag." Instead, UNA UNA keeps it personal. Comprising of just four tables and a casual lounge area, Sam wanted to ensure that everyone could be looked after properly. For UNA UNA's menu, Sam says it had to be simple, classic, and free from gimmicks — no edible flowers or smoke gun just for Instagram. The Spring Dinner Menu was recently launched, featuring dishes such as Tuna Crudo, Chargrilled Calamari, Lamb Katsu, Tête de Moine, and the signature Roasted Duck Breast. "Our menu is simple but ambitious," says Sam. "We change it every three to four months to reflect what's in season and what's available at the markets. Box Hill has amazing fresh vegetables, meat, and fish stalls, so we make the most of that, keeping everything fresh, local, and full of flavour." At its core, UNA UNA is a reflection of its neighbourhood. Sam's 14-year-old son can often be found helping out on weekends, greeting customers and making coffees. His daughter, Una, tells her friends and teachers about "her coffee shop". "We want UNA UNA to be a place where people can come together — enjoy good food and drinks, and feel part of the community as the neighbourhood grows. It feels like one big extended family," says Sam. "UNA UNA is still young and evolving, and there are so many possibilities ahead — much like my kids, learning and growing every day." Visit UNA UNA. Image credit: UNA UNA
Welcome to Vinabar, an intimate new bar tucked away in the laneways of Kent Street in Sydney's CBD. Seating just 32 imbibers, the small-format drinking establishment has taken inspiration from the nightlife and bar culture of Vietnam. Co-owners Reymark Tesalona and Ashwin Arumugam conceived the micro bar as a tribute to their shared experiences travelling together throughout Vietnam and Southeast Asia. Both owners are of Southeast Asian background — and the influence comes through at every element, from the bespoke interior to the cocktail ingredients. The bar is hidden behind a facade designed to resemble a banh mi street cart. Make your way through the steel door and you'll find a cluster of luminous silk lanterns (imported especially from Hoi An) descending from the ceiling, sleek black marble table tops, and bar shelving made from a replica design of the Golden Hand Bridge from central Vietnam coastal city Da Nang. [caption id="attachment_934459" align="alignnone" width="1280"] Vinabar owners Reymark Tesalona and Ashwin Arumugam[/caption] Clever interior detail aside, at Vinabar the cocktail list is the real star. The signature 'Vinagroni' is the bar's unique take on the classic negroni, topped with a dehydrated starfruit as the garnish so the drink resembles the Vietnamese flag. Another stand out is a cocktail featuring cognac, pineapple, coconut and a mint and pandan foam created with a whipped cream charger, aptly titled 'Da Nang'. As you might have gathered, the entire concept is very much rooted in storytelling. Tesalona explains, "Being able to cater to such a diverse audience in a confined space allows us to translate our lived experiences into something tangible and memorable. Our cocktails transcend all barriers, be it cultural, age, ethnicity, gender – giving us a medium to tell a story by using all our human senses, not just taste." Oh and Vinabar is open seven days a week until 2am so add it to your list of bars for late night capers. Vinabar is now open at Shop 1, 332 Kent Street, Sydney. Visit the venue's website to stay up to date.
Although we've been out and about for a while now, for many of us a night out with the crew is still overdue. Thankfully our fair city has plenty of top-notch bars to hit, including a heap of new venues that are well worth checking out. But that doesn't exactly make it easy when it comes to picking the ideal spot. We've teamed up with The Rocks to help you prep for your next night out with mates. Whether you're after pints on a rooftop with superb Sydney Opera House views or keen to be some of the first punters in a soon-to-open distillery, these harbourside haunts will not disappoint. It's time to round up the gang and hightail it to the historic CBD precinct for a cold one and plenty of good times. HICKSON HOUSE DISTILLING CO Hickson House Distilling Co is the latest offering from the crew behind much-loved haunts The Duke of Clarence and The Barber Shop, so you just know it's gonna be good. For the soon-to-open venue, the boys (Mikey Enright and Julian Train) have shifted the focus to all things distillation and brought ex-Manly Spirits legend Tim Stones on board. Set to open soon, the 450-square-metre distillery will house a bar, kitchen and mezzanine cocktail lounge, as well as distilling vats filled with gins, whiskies, aperitifs and specialist liquors that are all made on site. Once it swing open its doors, you can head on a tour to learn about history, processes and, of course, do some tasting. Or, simply sip a cocktail in the New York-style loft bar. THE GLENMORE Chances are you've hit up this heritage-listed pub at least once in your life. The three-storey, historic hotel features a smartly refurbished cocktail bar with some of the best harbour views in towns, making it a crowd-pleaser among locals and tourists alike. The interiors ooze classic Aussie pub charm (but with some modern accents) and it has a decent selection of brews, too. Hungry? The kitchen serves up good ol' fashioned pub grub like fish and chips, steaks, burgers and schnitzels. Whatever sort of night out you're after, kick things off on this rooftop for a couple of sundowners is always a good idea. [caption id="attachment_832072" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Steven Woodburn[/caption] FRANK MAC'S Fans of subterranean whisky bar The Doss House will be pleased to hear that the same team is at the helm of this slick new gin emporium. The 120-seater boasts over 100 different varieties of the juniper liquor, both local and imported. Like many bars and pubs in The Rocks, Frank Mac's is housed in a heritage-listed sandstone building, with its interiors charmingly accentuated with old-world charm. It's also got a courtyard, so be sure to head here for a sunset cocktail or two, stat. TAP ROOMS If beer is your thing then be sure to hit up the Tap Rooms on your next night out in The Rocks. This brewpub serves up approachable, sessionable froths alongside hearty gastropub fare. Hot tip: the XPA makes for a superb summer schooner. For the beer nerds, there are a number of guest taps, as well as an in-house special and a staff-pick tap, on regular rotation. [caption id="attachment_660837" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Alana Dimou[/caption] THE DOSS HOUSE The aforementioned Doss House has been a frequent haunt for Sydney whisky lovers. The 1840s sandstone building this renowned whisky bar calls home has, over its time, been a bootmaker's shop, a boarding house, a doctor's surgery and an opium dealer's den — if only these walls could talk, hey? Its latest iteration pays homage to the building's storied past, so if you want to escape for a few hours, this is the spot. The moody basement bar boasts an enormous whisky collection, showcased in American oak cabinets, and dark leather armchairs. However, if it's a nice evening, you'll want to nab a spot in the airy courtyard. Then order yourself a dram or a cocktail if that's more your speed. [caption id="attachment_830607" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Anna Kucera[/caption] THE KEEL The brainchild of three mates, The Keel is George Street new drinking den. But what sets it apart from other watering holes is its philanthropic foundations; it promises to donate 20 percent of its profits back to the community and charitable. The sophisticated fit-out has a nautical-inspired theme — think hardwood timbers and cosy booths that are ideal for small groups. There's also a balcony area overlooking Sydney Harbour and Circular Quay that's great for a sunny afternoon bev. Unsurprisingly, rum is the hero here, and you can expect many idiosyncratic cocktails to be shaken and stirred behind the bar. This is a hot new ticket where you can raise a glass for a good cause. MRS JONES Named in honour of Jane Jones, the licensee of the well-loved The Orient Hotel back in 1897, Mrs Jones is a modern nod to the pub's lively history. Many of us know The Orient as a solid, dependable spot for a few pints of perfectly poured Guinness, but this smart, openair cocktail terrace adds an element of sophistication to the stalwart. Overlooking the pub's interior courtyard, Mrs Jones offers a mixture of high and low chairs and is decked out with lush plants. It's the ideal spot to sip a cold one or cocktail on a warm springtime evening. [caption id="attachment_830609" align="alignnone" width="1920"] Anna Kucera[/caption] CHATEAU TANUNDA While the Barossa is a touch far to travel for a single night out, you can get a taste of its world-class wines right in the heart of Sydney. Renowned Barossa Valley vineyard Chateau Tanunda winery has opened a wine enthusiast's dream in The Rocks, set inside a stunning 1860s heritage building. The vibe is concept bar meets cellar door, while everything you sip is a celebration of the world-famous wine region. The space offers private tasting sessions, where you and a small group can sample wines from vines that are up to 150 years old guided by the experienced hand of fine wine specialist Justin Lambert. You can even book in for private event for up to 18 people — so if you have lots of wine lovers in your life, this is sure to impress. THE ARGYLE A mainstay of Sydney's nightlife scene since 2007, The Argyle has outlasted lockout laws and lockdowns for good reason — it's smack-bang in the middle of the city, and it has something for everyone. The venue is as multifaceted as they come: it's home to six separate bars, sprawling cobblestoned courtyard and a nightclub, all spread across two floors of a former post office on the historic street from which it takes its name. On the menu, you'll find a great range of classic and signature cocktails, wines and tap beers. House-made pizzas are also available to line your stomach as you set yourself up in the crowning jewel of casual drinking and dining in The Rocks. Keen to know what else is going on in The Rocks this spring? Sign up to The Rocks' mailing list to find out about upcoming events, venue openings and more. Top image: Anna Kucera
Good news hasn't been easy to find in Sydney of late. Being in lockdown to combat the COVID-19 pandemic — and having those stay-at-home conditions expanded, extended and tightened as case numbers rise — will do that. But one infectiously adorable bundle of joy has just entered the world, and it's the heartwarmingly cute kind of sight that we all definitely need right now. If you're reading this from elsewhere in the country, trust us — you need this, too. Taronga Zoo has announced the arrival of a southern hairy-nosed wombat joey that was born in October last year. Yes, that's more than a few months back now, but the as-yet-unnamed baby critter has only just started to emerge from her mother's pouch in recent weeks — so she's still big news. The joey was born to experienced mum Jetta. Wombat joeys are the size of a jellybean when they first enter the world, and then they remain in their mother's pouch for between seven and nine months as they grow. "The little joey has just reached the size where she no longer fits in the Jetta's pouch; we have seen her try to get back into the pouch a couple of times, but Jetta just won't allow it — she is just too big!" advises keeper Rebecca Russell-Cook. "At the moment the joey is out and about quite regularly exploring both the burrow and outside areas, on her own as well as with mum and sister Wanyi," she continued. "In the next few weeks, the joey will become even more active — so once Taronga starts welcoming guests back, they will definitely get the chance to spot the little joey at Taronga's wombat burrow at our Backyard to Bush precinct." That's enough words about this loveable little critter, because we all know that you're here to get a glimpse — and Taronga Zoo has helpfully released a video that shows the joey just doing super-cute joey things. Check it out below: [video width="1920" height="1080" mp4="https://cdn.concreteplayground.com/content/uploads/2021/07/Taronga-zoo-ES-edit-09072021-78.mp4"][/video] If you're after further information, you can also watch keeper Rebecca Russell-Cook chat about the joey — if you can hear her above all the "awwwwwwwwwws" you'll be exclaiming, that is. [video width="1920" height="1080" mp4="https://cdn.concreteplayground.com/content/uploads/2021/07/Wombat-Joey_VNR_P2C.mp4"][/video] Taronga Zoo is currently closed during Sydney's lockdown, but you can check out more videos of its cute animals via its online Taronga TV channel.
Sydneysiders, your summer plans now include a date with the biggest name in street art there is: Banksy. The mysterious artist isn't there. Or, if they are, no one will know anyway. More than 160 works are showcasing Banksy's art, however, including infinity rooms and simulations that play with some of Banksy's most famous creations. The Art of Banksy: Without Limits has finally hit Sydney Town Hall, displaying from Wednesday, January 24. A massive collection of pieces by the art world's chief enigma — including the darkly satirical, overtly political work that has turned the stencil-loving artist into such an infamous icon — the exhibition's hefty array of artworks include Banksy's certified art, prints on a heap of different materials, plus photos and sculptures as well. For an immersive experience, there's installations, physical and digital, alongside murals and mapping shows. One such installation: a simulation of Dismaland Bemusement Park. Another: that mirrored infinity room. Banksy's murals in Ukraine also get a nod, and one space is devoted to the MV Louise Michel, the 30-metre-long high-speed lifeboat funded by Banksy that patrols the Mediterranean to rescue refugees. Attendees can also peer at reproductions of Banksy's works that have been made exclusively for this exhibition, recreating some of the artist's pieces using — of course — stencils. Flower Thrower, Kissing Coppers and sculpture Phone Booth make an appearance — and spray painting your own shirt is an option. Adding Sydney to its list of stops alongside Istanbul, Amsterdam, Antwerp, Berlin, Bucharest, Cluj and Budapest, plus Riyadh, Vienna, Warsaw, Seoul, Atlanta, Miami, Charlotte, Chile, Seattle and Mexico City, The Art of Banksy: Without Limits will run daily and take between 45–60 minutes to wander through. And yes, you can snap away for the 'gram while you're there.
They're small, they're located off the beaten path and they're nestled among nature — and they're your next reason to make your way to Byron Bay. You probably don't need an excuse to head to the popular New South Wales town now that the country is opening back up, but Unyoked's new tiny cabins in the surrounding hinterland are as good a motivating factor as anything else, especially if you're keen to end 2020 or start 2021 with a stint of seclusion. If your idea of a perfect escape is a remote cabin, surrounded by wilderness with no Wi-Fi, this news may just have you hitting 'book' straight away. The Aussie startup already has a number of compact cabins located around NSW, Victoria and Queensland, but it has just launched its first two in NSW's Northern Rivers region — about an hour out of Byron Bay, at the end of a valley and surrounded by citrus trees (and plenty of quiet, obviously). Like its other properties, newcomers Ashi and Pana have been placed in secret patches of wilderness on private properties, in the middle of nowhere. Ashi is located next to a creek, and both tiny houses boast their own outdoor bath. So, yes, they're perfect for summer stays. [caption id="attachment_794493" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] trentandjessie[/caption] The exact locations are still under wraps as Unyoked aims to make sure your stay is a bit of an adventure, by only revealing the address for your chosen house two days before you're due to set off. It has revealed that it's upping its food game, though — with Unyoked launching packages called 'Food Sorted' to help take care of your sustenance needs while you're switching off. A collaboration with Ragazzi Pasta and Wine and Fabricca, they're available for Sydneysiders to pick up before they head to their chosen cabin, and include Ragazzia pastas, toasted sandwiches, a range of meats and cheeses, and pre-prepared restaurant-style desserts in jars. Everything is designed to be cooked over the fire or in the tiny house, too. [caption id="attachment_794498" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Kitti Gould[/caption] If you're wondering about Unyoked's story in general, it was founded and is run by twins Cam and Chris Grant, with the company's off-the-grid cabins bring you the convenience and comfort of four solid walls — alongside the adventure, spontaneity and closeness-to-nature of camping. With the help of Fresh Prince, the brothers have designed and built Unyoked's houses, and they're all sustainable and solar-powered. Bookings for the two new spots are already open, so we suggest you hover over the website if you're keen to book one in. Once you've booked on in, all you need to do is jump in your car, disconnect and recharge. The two new Unyoked cabins are located across in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, and are available to book via unyoked.co. Looking for more off-the-grid escapes? Check out our favourites in NSW, Victoria and Queensland. Top images: trentandjessie,
Summer is just a state of mind, and March has everything you need to stay in it. Outdoor festivals, swims, Caribbean barbecues and the biggest street parade of the whole year — it's all on the schedule for early autumn late summer.
Five years after closing, and following two unsuccessful attempts to revive it (as Cali Club and Kings Cross Pavilion), World Bar is returning to Sydney — but just for one night. The legendary Kings Cross nightclub was a key part of Sydney's nightlife and live music scene for 18 years before it closed in 2018 following the disastrous consequences of the lockout laws. Now, the team is getting back together for a takeover of Kings Cross Hotel. It's all going down on Saturday, November 18, nearly five years to the day that the original club closed. The takeover will be bringing throwback tunes to all four levels of the William Street pub — and, most importantly, there will be teapots. Whether they will be at 2018 prices is yet to be seen. Each level of Kings Cross Hotel will be celebrating a different iteration of World Bar, with club nights like The Wall, Banquet, Mum and Cake all being given their own floors. The lineup of DJs, producers and live musicians features plenty of World Bar regulars, including sets from Stoney Roads DJs and Under CTRL DJs on the Cakes level; a b2b set from The Wall mainstays Badrapper, Enschway and Made by Tsuki; a secret special guest on the Banquet level and the World Bar All-Stars at the Main Bar. The takeover will kick off at 8pm and rage on until the early hours of the morning. Whether you were a regular at The Wall or you never had a chance to experience the storied multi-level club, this is a reunion you don't want to miss. Tickets have sold out online, but there will be limited door spots from 8pm — so get down early and you'll be able to sneak in.
It's back. A CBD institution known for facilitating many a late night has reopened following a multimillion-dollar transformation. Jacksons on George's ambitious rebuild and redevelopment was first announced back in 2018, with the Circular Quay space being completely reinvented over the last five years — re-emerging under the guidance of Maurice Terzini (Icebergs, Re-) and his DTL Entertainment Group partner Michael Broome. "I tip [the rooftop bar] as being a place to be this summer," says Terzini. "Great food and drinks intersect with contemporary art and music across all three levels to create a vibrant, contemporary venue." There are indeed three distinct areas in the new Jacksons on George: a ground-floor public bar, a flash new French bistro and the sleek cocktail-fuelled rooftop bar. Leading the charge across all three levels is Head Chef Steven Sinclair, who arrives at the venue with a wealth of experience in world-renowned kitchens. Alongside time spent overlooking Bondi Beach at Icebergs, he's also cut his teeth at two of Ireland's top restaurants, The Old Schoolhouse Inn and The Potted Hen. Wander in from George Street and you'll find a classic pub sporting a fresh fitout from Sydney-based studio Richards Stanisich. Both here and up on the rooftop, you can expect the tried-and-true combination of pub feeds done well, house twists on classic cocktails and perfectly poured local beers. Some of the unexpected turns you'll discover on the pub menu include slow-cooked duck sausage rolls, Moreton Bay bug buns and roast chook cooked over charcoal. Plus, there's a signature dessert on offer: the Jacksons banoffee sundae. Changing things up above the public bar is the 120-seat Bistro George, a European-inspired diner that champions local produce. Clams casino, beef tartare, salt-crusted wagyu ribeye and gin rigatoni all grace the menu at the date night-ready first-floor restaurant. "The ethos at Bistro George is all about recognisable bistro classics, elegantly executed with quality ingredients," says Sinclair. "Meanwhile, everything on the public bar and rooftop menu is designed to be accessible and familiar. Think: pub and bistro classics, elevated with the best produce and on-point service, regardless of what dish you order and where you dine." From Friday, September 22, Bistro George will transform into a cocktail bar later into the night, with a reduced supper menu and live music led by house jazz trio The Jacksons All Stars. This is the kind of place that you can slip into for an after-dinner drink or a late-night snack. Throughout the venue, you'll also find an impressive art collection including a series of works from Archibald and Sulman Prize finalist and Yankunytjatjara artist Kaylene Whiskey, who injects her award-winning blend of traditional Anangu art and pop culture into the space. And, if you're on the hunt for an intimate spot to host your work Christmas party or a milestone birthday, Bistro George also boasts a 30-guest private dining room, translating the luxury of the restaurant into a secluded corner of the venue. Find Jacksons on George at 176 George Street, Sydney from Monday, September 11 — operating 10am–late Monday–Sunday. Photography: Tom Ferguson and Toby Peet.
If the benefits of waking up at sunrise (like better sleep, less stress) aren't enough to entice you to set an early alarm, perhaps Shangri-La Sydney's opulent Sunrise Lobster Breakfast will. The lavish hotel in The Rocks already has a reputation among night owls for Blu Bar on 36 and its spectacular vantage over Sydney harbour. But guests who make a morning booking (6.30–8am) for the Sunrise Lobster Breakfast at its restaurant Altitude from Thursday through Sunday, can enjoy a decadent serve of lobster, sparkling and a window seat (that's hopefully doused in sunshine). Specifically, if you make it out of bed at those hours, your $109pp bill will have you watching the sun rise over the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House, while devouring an omelette that heroes West Australian lobster (the freshest, of course). A creamy lobster bisque, fresh rocket salad of candied walnuts, orange braised fennel and avocado and toasted Sonoma sourdough joins your lavish eggs — as does an ice-cold glass of Veuve Clicquot. You can upgrade with Black Oscietra Caviar and blinis, or elevate an already exceptional glass to a pour of Dom Perignon. Still hungry? Don't forget to weave through the buffet of treats — such as scrumptious pastries, artisanal cheeses, luscious salads and charcuterie — also included in the price. Consider all excuses to hit snooze put to bed. Shangri-La Sydney's Sunrise Lobster Breakfast is offered from 6.30–8am, Thursday through Sunday. To make a booking, head to the website.
