Category: FEATURES

You have to try this Hot Cross Bun cocktail

Updated: 25/03/2024

Easter time is upon us once more and there’s only one way to get through the holiday… drinking! Just kidding, the real answer is chocolate! But if you are in the mood for a tasty tipple to wash down the family lunch, look no further than this Hot Cross Bun cocktail recipe using the new Antipodes Gin Co. Chai Gin. It’s sure to be a crowd pleaser! The grown-up twist on your favourite Easter bakery item is perfectly warming with a symphony of Easter flavours from the seasonal Antipodes Gin Co. Chai Gin. You’ll get scents and tastes of Ceylon tea, sweet cinnamon, chamomile, a hint of pepperberry, and of course chocolate and vanilla (because it is Easter and time to indulge after all!) “Easter is all about celebrating with family and friends, and what better way to do that than with a drink that captures the essence of the season? Our Hot Cross Bun cocktail is a playful twist on a classic Easter treat,” says Antipodes Gin Co. co-founder Rory Gration, “It lets you enjoy all the warm spices and fruity notes you love, but in a more refreshing way. It’s like taking a bite of your favourite hot cross bun, but in a delicious and boozy form!” Hot Cross Bun Gin Cocktail Ingredients45ml Chai Gin15ml Licor 43 (or spiced Vanilla sugar syrup)90ml milk (ideally a soy or something nut based)Fresh nutmeg MethodCombine all ingredients except nutmeg in a shaker and combineDouble strain over fresh ice into a Highball glassGrate fresh nutmeg on top… Read More

Category: FEATURES, LIFESTYLE

Tags: antipodes gin co, cocktail recipe, easter, hot cross bun

Review: Wicked at the Regent Theatre Melbourne

by THE F

Posted: 14/03/2024

In an era where the fantastical often mirrors the stark realities of our world, Wicked, the beloved musical, draws thousands into its emerald allure yet again, proving its timeless relevance and enchanting allure. Its latest revival in Melbourne, commemorating the 20th anniversary of its Broadway debut, prompts the perennial question: Does Wicked continue to cast its spell over audiences, or is its magic waning? From the moment you step into the opulent ambiance of the Regent Theatre, it’s clear that Wicked hasn’t lost an iota of its charm or vibrancy. The production, with its slick costumes, precise choreography, and larger-than-life sets, remains a testament to the creative ingenuity behind this spellbinding musical. Yet, it’s not the spectacle alone that keeps audiences riveted; it’s the effervescent energy and unparalleled talent of the cast that breathe new life into the familiar tale. Courtney Monsma’s portrayal of Glinda is nothing short of spectacular, infusing the character with a delightful mix of humor, warmth, and depth. Her interaction with Sheridan Adams’ Elphaba, whose vocal prowess and emotional range anchor the show, makes for a compelling narrative of friendship, rivalry, and redemption. Together, their performances not only captivate but also elevate the material, making every note of “Defying Gravity” resonate with a fresh sense of urgency and inspiration. While the production eloquently showcases the dazzling spectacle that fans expect, it’s the underlying themes of social justice, acceptance, and the consequences of ambition that give Wicked its lasting appeal. The musical deftly navigates these complex issues, making it as much a… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, FEATURES, MELBOURNE, THEATRE

Tags: melbourne theatre, Regent's Theatre melbourne, wicked, wicked melbourne

What to expect at Biennale of Sydney

by James Banham

Posted: 26/02/2024

The vibrant city is set to host the 24th edition of the Biennale of Sydney, aptly titled “Ten Thousand Suns,” from 9 March to 10 June 2024. As a free public event, it shines as a beacon of contemporary artistic expression and is the largest of its kind in Australia. Art enthusiasts will be drawn to venues like the Art Gallery of New South Wales, Artspace, the Chau Chak Wing Museum at the University of Sydney, Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, the Sydney Opera House, and the revitalized White Bay Power Station to experience this cultural phenomenon. Led by artistic directors Cosmin Costina? and Inti Guerrero, “Ten Thousand Suns” invites celebration into its core, weaving joy with the threads of collective resistance and unity against historical injustices. Taking inspiration from First Nations technology, Queer resilience, and global carnival traditions, the festival delves into the current climate emergency while steadfastly rejecting a dystopian vision of the future. This year, marking the Biennale’s 50th anniversary, the program challenges the western narrative of an apocalyptic end and chooses to embrace a future filled with collaborative joy and shared success. The festival will feature 96 artists and collectives hailing from over 50 countries, each bringing a personal touch rooted in diverse communities and artistic vernaculars. Many of the artworks act as commentaries on global issues while honoring the power of personal and collective stories. One featured commission is Yankunytjatjara artist Kaylene Whiskey’s ‘Kaylene TV,’ a testament to her joyous and unique vision, displayed on a grand scale. The Fondation… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, ART, ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, FEATURES, SYDNEY

Tags: Biennale Sydney, sydney art, Sydney arts

2 new markets in Sydney

by James Banham

Posted: 25/02/2024

Get ready to ring in the Easter festivities with two spectacular markets presented by Cambridge Markets, set to paint the town with vibrant energy and delightful offerings. As we gear up for the joyful season, mark your calendars and prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey through a world of creativity, delectable cuisines, and boundless community spirit. A Tale of Two Markets The much-anticipated Cronulla Easter Market is all set to make a triumphant return at the picturesque Don Lucas Reserve, Wanda Beach, Cronulla, on Saturday and Sunday, March 16-17, from 10am to 4pm. Meanwhile, The Ultimate Easter Market EQ is gearing up to captivate visitors at the Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park, on Easter Sunday, March 31, from 10am to 4pm. Delightful Offerings Await! Step into a world where over 150 stallholders will converge from across Sydney, offering a diverse array of fashion, homewares, gifts, art, craft, plants, toys, and much more. Embrace the fusion of global flavors as both markets present a tantalizing smorgasbord of world cuisines, ranging from Thai to Turkish, promising an epicurean experience like no other. Unveiling the Magic Madelienne Anderson, the director of Cambridge Markets, expresses her excitement for these upcoming events, “We at Cambridge Markets love a good Easter market. It’s a great time of year for markets as the weather is fabulous and people enjoy this relaxed period when they get to take a breather from the fast pace of the new year.” She adds, “Both these markets will have their own flavor, and bring a bit of… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, FEATURES, FOOD & DRINK, SYDNEY

Tags: New markets, sydney guide, Sydney life, Sydney lifestyle, Sydney lifestyle blog, sydney markets, Where markets Sydney

Valentine’s Day Gift Guide: fun, flirty and functional

by Danielle Kirk

Updated: 08/02/2024

The most un-hallowed (but definitely most Hallmarked) day is almost upon us… Valentine’s Day! Wondering what to get your special someone and drawing blanks? We’ve got you covered! FUN GIFTS Aussie winemakers Doom Juice have teamed up with flower artists Acid Flwrs to create the mother of all fancy shiraz bottles, Acid Doom. Only 66 have been produced and this collectors item is only available until sold out for $99. Missed out? You can score their ~lovely~ bundle for the same price. Collect experiences not things and take your boo to the movies. Laneway Cinema in The Rocks is screening romcom hit 50 First Dates for FREE at 7pm on Feb 14th, and Mov’in Bed, Barangaroo’s first beach cinema, is hosting special Valentine’s Day romantic movie screenings all month, tickets are available from $12. You know what’s fun? Making pink gin cocktails, or just straight up enjoying a pink gin spritz on the balcony. We’re loving Malfy Gin Rosa. Make it yours for $74.99 (or less if you’re a Dan’s Member!) FLIRTY GIFTS Sassy cookies taste good mentally and in your mouth! Sweet Mickie do a range of cookies that ship Australia-wide featuring sweet, or sexy, messages starting from $34.95. This may not be a family friendly website but we can’t give you specific recs, to each their own and all that BUT Love Honey stocks a wide range of adult toys, gadgets and goodies to set the spicy mood. Games are really having a moment, so why not design your own or find an… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, FEATURES, GIFT GUIDE, MELBOURNE, SYDNEY

Tags: gift guide, the f sydney, Valentines Day, valentines day gift guide

Tips to not be a dickhead at the beach

by THE F

Posted: 04/02/2024

As the sun graces the Australian skyline, our pristine coasts beckon with their shimmering waves and golden sands. However, beneath the allure of our renowned beaches, a pressing concern emerges: the quintessential beach etiquette—or rather, the lack thereof. A groundbreaking survey by Preply has shed light on this issue, providing invaluable insight into the behaviours that are marring the experiences of many a beach-goer and, consequently, how these faux pas can be mitigated. The results are in, and Australians have spoken: 55% are irked by the presence of pets, 48% frown upon swimming outside designated zones, and 46% would rather not witness public displays of affection at the beach. Unsurprisingly, Bondi Beach garners the notoriety for less-than-commendable conduct, a sentiment echoingly closely followed by beautiful yet bustling beaches in Surfers Paradise and St Kilda. Yet, how do we navigate these choppy waters of beach manners? It’s simpler than you might think. Preply’s study suggests that ignoring undesirable behaviour is the go-to for 55%, whilst a forthright 24% opt for a polite reminder of the common courtesies. A mere 8% take to social media as their platform of choice for etiquette enforcement. Our beloved sandy stretches are not just for recreation but are ecosystems demanding respect. Feeding seagulls, littering, failing to adhere to safety norms—such as designated surf and swim zones—are all actions acclaimed for their absence. Cultivating an environment of respect and safety is the collective responsibility of all beach-goers, ensuring every trip to these terrestrial paradises is nothing short of spectacular. In the campaign… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, FEATURES, SYDNEY

Tags: Australian beach guide, Beach etiquette, What to do at beach

Where to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Sydney

Valentines food meal dinner plate table wine

by James Banham

Updated: 31/01/2024

Valentine’s Day is not just a day, it’s a celebration of love, a time when romance weaves itself into the tapestry of our daily lives with a touch more elegance and fervour. Allow us to be your culinary Cupid, guiding your taste buds on a love-infused journey through the most charming and delightful dining experiences our city has to offer. Whether it’s a candlelit dinner, a cosy bistro with ambient melodies, or a rooftop setting under the stars, our Valentine’s Day restaurant guide for Sydney is your gateway to creating unforgettable moments with your beloved. So, reserve your table, and let the magic unfold in a symphony of flavours and heartfelt conversations. NOMAD Sydney Indulge in a taste of the Mediterranean at NOMAD, set in a chic converted warehouse in Surry Hills. The share style set menus, inspired by travels through Spain, Morocco, and the Middle East, are sure to tantalise your taste buds, especially with a glass of champagne upon arrival. Book your experience here — $185pp Novotel Sydney Parramatta Spread the love with Novotel Sydney Parramatta’s Valentine’s Day Degustation Dinner at 350 Restaurant & Lounge. Featuring a 6-course degustation menu with mouth-watering flavours, Novotel Parramatta it promises a romantic, Australian fusion dining experience for you and your loved one. From tartare and succulent oysters, to snapper and ravioli, connect with your partner over some divine food this V-day. Inclusions 6-course degustation menu for $95pp. Add matching wines $45pp. All from 6pm. Book the 6-Course degustation menu Fratelli Fresh Enjoy some flirtatious feasting at Fratelli Fresh with a… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, FEATURES, SYDNEY

Tags: valentine's day, valentines day sydney, Where to go Sydney Valentine's Day

Valentine’s Day at Stokehouse Melbourne

by James Banham

Posted: 26/01/2024

This Valentine’s Day, embark on a gastronomic journey that will leave you and your loved one with unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a fan of fresh, succulent seafood or you prefer a delightful Mediterranean feast, Stokehouse and Stokehouse Pasta & Bar at St Kilda have you covered. For just $200 per person, Stokehouse offers a four-course menu meticulously curated by Executive Chef Jason Staudt. Showcasing Australia’s finest seafood and seasonal produce, this menu features delectable delights such as a fig tart with oregano and buffalo curd, Yellowfin tuna bite with compressed melon and pickled rind, and Stokehouse’s iconic seafood platter. For those wanting to bring a touch of luxury to their dining experience, an additional whole Victorian Lobster is available, served with Ancho chilli butter, pickled biquinho chilli, steamed buns, and thick-cut chips for $190. Crafted for two, this show-stopping dish is perfect for those wanting to turn up the romance this Valentine’s Day. The options downstairs at Stokehouse Pasta & Bar are equally enticing. For $120 per person, enjoy a four-course Mediterranean feast and a welcome drink. Kick off your exquisite dining experience with a refreshing glass of King Valley Rosé Prosecco, followed by an array of antipasti including white anchovy and olive gilda’s and bresola with oregano may gnoccho frito. For mains, make your pick between dry aged club steak with salsa verde and garlic or locally sourced John Dory with peperonata. And to top it all off, Pastry Chef Ash Smith has concocted a heavenly Ferrero Rocher and red velvet cake parfait to… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, FEATURES, FOOD & DRINK, MELBOURNE

Tags: Lobster, Stokehouse lobster, Stokehouse Melbourne

Unforgettable Valentine’s Day events around Melbourne

by THE F

Posted: 24/01/2024

Whoever you’re marking February 14th with this year, true romance is guaranteed across Chris Lucas’ eight Melbourne venues. From tableside flowers and fiery fun to summer strawberry pavlova and the finest champagne, wooing your loved one has never been easier. Just make the booking and leave the rest up to the team at Lucas Restaurants. Yakimono: Ignite the Flames of Love Yakimono is bringing the fire to Valentine’s Day with an exclusive flame-kissed Setto menu for $110pp, which includes a cheeky cocktail to kick things off. Expect a mix of classics and special additions to share against the backdrop of the neon-lit dining room. Think fresh, flavorful kingfish sashimi; umami negi chicken skewers; dynamite tuna hako with dragon’s fire sauce and much more. The sparks will be flying — and we don’t just mean from the kitchen. What’s more, Yakimono is teaming up with the flower maestros at Bush, transforming its downstairs foyer into a pop-up florist for one day only. Drop by from 10am to 7pm on 14 February to pick up some stunning seasonal blooms, including banksia stems from $25 a pop and lush bouquets from $85. Get in quick to reserve your February 14 booking now Society Dining Room: A Feast for All the Senses A spectacular setting for any romantic rendezvous, with exceptional Euro-accented fare to match, Society is the perfect choice for a truly memorable Valentine’s Day. Visit the esteemed Dining Room for an exclusive $245pp Chef’s Menu, set to include a very special edition of Society’s famed dessert trolley…. Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, FEATURES, MELBOURNE

Tags: melbourne restaurants, valentine's day, Valentine's Day Melbourne

Valentine’s Day at NOMAD Sydney and Melbourne

by James Banham

Posted: 18/01/2024

NOMAD Group, renowned for its culinary excellence, is set to launch its biggest campaign to date, aptly named “Things We Love.” This month-long celebration will serve as a tribute to the exceptional produce and suppliers that NOMAD cherishes. With a focus on simplicity and authenticity, the campaign aims to showcase the true beauty of these beloved ingredients. Executive Chef Jacqui Challinor, the creative force behind NOMAD Group, expresses her passion for food as a love language. She shares, “We’re doing ‘Things We Love’ to celebrate all the beautiful produce and suppliers we cherish. Anchovies, figs, olive oil, ricotta, jamon… it’s a shopping list of all my favorite ingredients.” In line with NOMAD’s style, the team deliberately avoids overcomplicating dishes to allow the natural flavors to shine. This approach highlights the quality and integrity of the ingredients, crafting a dining experience that resonates with both food enthusiasts and connoisseurs. The campaign extends beyond gastronomy to the realm of mixology, with a thoughtfully curated cocktail menu designed to magnify and complement the love-themed atmosphere. Each week, four exclusive beverages will grace the menu, priced at $25. The first week introduces ‘The Don,’ a captivating cocktail featuring Gospel Straight Rye, Mac by Brookies, and Madeira Boal. Week two brings forth the beguiling ‘Rhubarb Bliss,’ artfully blending Rhubi Rhubarb Mistelle, Maidenii Sweet Vermouth, Peychaud Bitters, and Mount Majura Vineyard sparkling wine. Week three showcases the refreshing ‘Window Seat,’ a delightful fusion of Starward Twofold Whiskey, Autonomy Native Amaro, Saint Felix Bitter Citrus aperitivo, and citrus. Finally, the campaign culminates… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, FEATURES, SYDNEY

Tags: Nomad, Nomad Sydney, Valentine's Day Nomad, valentines day sydney

ARTS & CULTURE

Lauren Brincat When Do I Breathe 2024. Performer Jasmin Lancaster. Photographer Zan Wimberley. Courtesy of the artist

Public performance in Randwick Sydney by artist Lauren Brincat

22/04/2024

By James Banham

This week, the Randwick Health & Innovation Precinct will experience an exceptional infusion of art and community spirit through a public performance by the celebrated multidisciplinary artist Lauren Brincat. Scheduled for one-night only, on Wednesday, 24 April 2024, Brincat’s performance marks the launch of the new Laneway Art Program. This initiative, commissioned by the Randwick Health & Innovation Precinct and supported by Transport for NSW’s Safer Cities program, seeks to enhance perceptions of safety for women, girls, and gender diverse people navigating the streets and laneways of the Precinct. Brincat, along with Rochelle Haley, another leading Australian artist, has been entrusted with the mission to improve night-time connectivity and comfort within the precinct through performance-based and site-specific artwork. Both artists have engaged directly with health workers in the area to shape their projects, aiming to make the public spaces more welcoming and to strengthen the sense of community, safety, and inclusiveness across the site. The artwork, titled When do I breathe?, is an ambitious collaboration with sound artist Evelyn Ida Morris, UNSW Choral Director Sonia Maddock, and choreographer Charmene Yap. It invites the public to actively participate in shaping new paths across the precinct, offering a unique experience that encompasses three activation sites within the UNSW Kensington and the hospital precinct. The performance, beginning at 5:00 pm on the UNSW Scientia Lawn, is a reflection on the interconnectedness of local communities, especially those separated by differing work shifts and daily rhythms. Aiming to reclaim public space through collective action, When do I breathe? presents an… Read More

Good news for National Gallery London: Eva Gonzalès piece acquired

22/04/2024

By THE F

On the occasion of the artist’s 177th birthday on Friday 19th April, the National Gallery has acquired La Psyché (The Full-length Mirror), about 1869-70, by Eva Gonzalès (1849-1883) thanks to three generous legacy gifts from Mrs Martha Doris Bailey, Miss Gillian Cleaver, and Ms Sheila Mary Holmes, and the National Gallery Trust. This is the first acquisition by the Gallery of a work by Gonzalès and the second acquisition of its Bicentenary year. La Psyché has not been seen in public for over seventy years and joins only one other painting by her in a UK public collection, The Donkey Ride, about 1880?2, at the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery. Gonzalès is the 20th female artist represented in the National Gallery Collection, marking a significant addition. The story of Gonzalès’s reputation, during and after her life, reflects some of the reasons why women artists are not well represented in the National Gallery. These include being offered fewer opportunities in life and the lack of interest shown, consciously or not, in works by women artists by collectors of the era and onwards, from whose acquisitions the National Gallery’s own collection was assembled. During her lifetime Gonzalès was an established artist who exhibited multiple times to acclaim at the official Paris Salon. She was the only official pupil of Edouard Manet (1832-83), with whom she studied from 1869. Gonzalès likely painted La Psyché around the same time that Manet was painting his portrait of her, Eva Gonzalès (1870). That work, in the Gallery collection, was the focal point of the recent exhibition, Discover Manet & Eva… Read More

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Shooshfest: Australia’s first ever silent short film competition

17/04/2024

By James Banham

Australia’s Shooshfest, an inaugural silent short film competition, invites diverse creators to innovate in storytelling sans speech. Promising an immersive experience, it will connect with audiences, honour silent film and catalyse cinematic culture.

For excellent Flamenco, look to Sadler’s Wells

17/04/2024

By James Banham

Step into a world where tradition meets innovation, where old blends seamlessly with new to create something entirely original and electrifying. At Sadler’s Wells, the iconic Paco Peña, accompanied by his talented Paco Peña Dance Company, presents Solera – a captivating production that breathes new life into the timeless art of flamenco. As the evening unfolds, prepare to be mesmerised by a fusion of exceptional music, dance, and passion that transcends boundaries and embodies the essence of human emotions in all their raw beauty. The show opens with a symphony of everyday sounds that seamlessly transform into a vibrant celebration of the human spirit. Take away the traditional red Flamenco dress and imagine you’re in a studio with friends who are just chilling and decide to have a dance. They chat in-between sets, sip water, play on their phones – all normal every day stuff – that plays an insightful and very real backdrop to the magic unfolding in the foreground. From the rhythmic beats of percussionist Julio Alcocer to the exquisite melodies woven by guitars and voices, every moment is a testament to the skill and artistry of the performers. Directed with precision by Jude Kelly CBE, Solera masterfully transitions from the mundane to the magical, immersing the audience in a world of colour, light, and drama that is nothing short of spellbinding. In the second act, the stage comes alive with a spectacle of performance, accentuated by striking costumes and evocative lighting that elevate the talents of the company to new heights. Dancers… Read More

4 reasons to get excited for ‘Frontiers: Choreographers of Canada’s at Sadler’s Wells

11/04/2024

By James Banham

This exceptional triple bill showcases the extraordinary talents of three distinguished Canadian choreographers: Crystal Pite, Emma Portner, and James Kudelka, promising an unforgettable journey through the world of contemporary ballet.