Category: CITIES

Culinary Magic Awaits at Arkhé & Friends Series Finale

arkhe restaurant dining room

Adelaide’s renowned arkhé restaurant is wrapping up its year-long collaboration series, arkhé & friends, with three spectacular events featuring acclaimed chefs from around the globe. Since March 2024, this initiative has brought a rotating roster of culinary talent to partner with arkhé’s executive chef and co-owner, Jake Kellie, for exclusive takeover nights. The grand finale promises to be an exceptional culinary adventure. Vaughan Mabee – January 16, 2025 First up is Vaughan Mabee, the celebrated executive chef from New Zealand’s Amisfield, who will be gracing arkhé’s kitchen on January 16. Mabee is renowned for his innovative approach and commitment to showcasing the best of New Zealand produce through his 22-course gastronomic experience at Amisfield. His accolades include Amisfield being awarded Restaurant of the Year multiple times by the Cuisine Good Food Awards. Mabee’s reputation as a ‘mad genius’ precedes him, and his event promises to deliver an unforgettable culinary spectacle. Tickets are $450 per person and include eight courses, a Laphroaig cocktail on arrival, and wine pairing. Bo & Dylan – February 6, 2025 Next, the duo from Bangkok, Bo & Dylan, will bring their Thai culinary magic to arkhé on February 6. Known for their restaurant Bo.Lan, which champions local farming and traditional culinary methods, Bo and Dylan James have crafted a menu that fuses classic Thai flavors with their signature flair. Their Adelaide event will feature a fire-kissed menu exclusive to arkhé, with five courses, a Laphroaig cocktail on arrival, and wine pairing. Tickets are priced at $300 per person. Sean Gray –… Read More

Celebrate an Australian Christmas at The Rocks

Rocks Christmas tree Sydney

This festive season, The Rocks is ready to dazzle you with its unique celebration of an Australian Christmas. From December 8 to December 22, the bustling harbourside neighbourhood transforms into a vibrant hub of activity, offering something for everyone. Sing Along with Local Talent at the Homegrown Concert Series Settle in at Tallawoladah Lawn this December for the Homegrown Concert Series, featuring some of Australia’s rising musical stars. Taking place over two weekends, December 14-15 and December 21-22, from 3:30pm to 6:30pm, this free event offers live performances against the stunning backdrop of Sydney Harbour and the Opera House. Grab your friends, pack a picnic, and enjoy tunes from artists like ROSHANI, Jess Beck, and Big Wheels. Forgot your picnic? Swing by Barrelhouse Cellars or other local favourites for snacks and drinks. Homegrown Christmas Flicks Under the Stars Join in the festive cheer with outdoor Christmas movie screenings on December 4, 11, and 18 at Laneway Cinema on Playfair Street. From 7pm, enjoy classics like “Planes, Trains & Automobiles” and “Home Alone 2” under the stars. Proceeds from popcorn sales will support Plate It Forward. Don’t forget to pre-register for tickets online to secure the best seats! Artisan Gift Shopping at The Rocks Markets: Christmas Edition Explore The Rocks Markets every weekend until December 22 for a special Christmas Edition. Unearth unique gifts from local artisans like OR Design and Pappus Jewellery. Take a break with a picnic under the Sydney Harbour Bridge, sampling delights from market stalls. Wine lovers can enjoy the NSW Wine… Read More

Festive fun for all at The Streets of Barangaroo 

Claw machine

Get ready to immerse yourself in the festive spirit at The Streets of Barangaroo! From November 28 to December 19, this lively precinct will transform into a holiday wonderland, offering a vibrant mix of activities perfect for workers, visitors, and families alike. Kick off the festive fun with a photo opportunity beside the waterfront’s pop-up Santa station, nestled next to Zushi. Capture the magic on November 28 and December 19 from 11:30am to 2:30pm. Whether you’re with kids or simply want a fun holiday snap for yourself, Santa will be ready to spread some cheer and pose for memorable photos. Fancy a chance to win exciting prizes? Shoppers spending $15 or more at any Barangaroo retailer can make their way to the Christmas claw machine. Operating every Thursday from 11:30am, this machine offers a variety of exclusive goodies. From gift vouchers valued between $10 and $100 for places like Callao, Wild Sage, and ToroToro, to tasty treats like free burgers from Ume Burger or gelato from Rivareno, there’s something for everyone. Just present your receipt or proof of purchase to have a go! Adding to the festive ambiance, expect live entertainment with The Shoppers troupe – a retro, juggling delight – roaming on December 5 and 19 from 11:30am to 2:30pm. They’ll be handing out scrumptious treats from Bottega Coco, spreading extra joy and sweetness. On December 12, the rhythmic beats of the Sousaphonics brass band will echo through the area, inviting everyone to join in the fun. For a musical treat, head to Barangaroo… Read More

There’s a new restaurant to try in Sydney: Wine Bar at the International

Men Chefs The International team shots The Wine Bar 1

The Point* Group, known for their standout Sydney venues like Shell House, has unveiled a new gem in the city’s CBD, The International. Nestled above Martin Place, this multi-dimensional destination is a trifecta of experiences with The Wine Bar, The Grill, and The Panorama Bar. Today, we’re taking a closer look at The Wine Bar, a place that redefines the wine bar concept with a global flair and a welcoming vibe. Upon entering The Wine Bar, guests are greeted by a vibrant, piazza-style courtyard restaurant, seating 60. Dominated by Charles Perry’s eye-catching yellow steel ‘S’ sculpture, this area offers its own bar, making it the perfect spot for all-day dining or a relaxing drink after work. The courtyard’s lively atmosphere invites patrons to unwind while soaking up the city’s energy. Move inside, and you’ll find the heart of The Wine Bar – an intimate, 40-seat space dedicated to the appreciation of wine. Here, banks of wine fridges glisten with an impressive selection, and a terrace overlooks the dynamic streets of Martin Place. An extensive by-the-glass wine list and an open kitchen add layers of intrigue to this central hub, encouraging exploration and discovery. For those seeking something a bit more refined, The Seidler Room provides the ideal setting. This 60-seat circular dining room, with its plush carpets, cozy banquettes, and mid-century timber touches, is a haven for special occasions. It’s poised to host long lunches, events, and the much-anticipated wine parties, offering a touch of elegance to any gathering. Behind the culinary magic is executive… Read More

Sydney’s new Panorama Bar at The International

Food International Panorama 196R

In November 2024, The Point* Group, the masterminds behind some of Sydney’s most beloved venues, unveiled The International, a landmark multi-dimensional destination in the bustling heart of Sydney’s CBD at Martin Place. Perched high above the city’s vibrant social and civic core, The International offers guests a trio of distinct venues: The Wine Bar, The Grill, and The Panorama Bar, each promising a unique and captivating experience. At the pinnacle of The International, The Panorama Bar offers a breathtaking vista of Sydney’s iconic skyline. Nestled atop Martin Place, this rooftop gem provides an unparalleled perspective, where the modernity of the city meets the charm of heritage architecture, with the towering MLC Building standing sentinel. The Panorama Bar is the epitome of Sydney’s high-end ‘sip and snack’ culture, making it the perfect destination for sunlit lunches, golden hour gatherings, and spirited nighttime escapades. Culinary director Joel Bickford and executive chef Danny Corbett have curated a menu that celebrates the best of small plates and light snacks. The culinary offerings are a delightful play on taste and presentation, featuring a cold bar and a hot bank of Hibachi grills that serve up a variety of snacks. Whether it’s delicacies on a stick, nestled in a bun, presented on toast, or served chilled on ice, the menu is a culinary adventure. Guests can indulge in an ever-changing array of yakitori-style meat, fish, and vegetables, freshly shucked oysters, raw fish preparations like tuna and kingfish, crispy fried prawn toast, and the coal-kissed squid. Not to be missed are the… Read More

Three Blue Ducks, North Rivers at Brunswick Heads and a whole lotta good food

Oysers smoked pork taco dona cholita con chips and guacomole flat bread 2024 10 30 Hotel Brunswick Kitti Gould 16

Three Blue Ducks and Hotel Brunswick are thrilled to announce their exciting new collaboration, unveiling ‘The Ducks at Hotel Brunswick’ this December. This partnership brings together the laid-back charm of an Australian pub with the innovative culinary style of Three Blue Ducks, promising to deliver a unique dining experience on the banks of the Brunswick River. Known for their commitment to sustainability and ethically sourced ingredients, Three Blue Ducks chefs Darren Robertson and Andy Allen have teamed up with Hotel Brunswick’s Head Chef, Loki Lynch, and Group General Manager of Food, Ben Turner. Together, they’ve crafted a menu that showcases local produce from the Northern Rivers region, adding their distinctive twist to beloved pub classics. Diners can expect the likes of schnitzels, chicken ‘parmies’, fish and chips, burgers, and pizzas, alongside vibrant citrus-infused plates and spicy dishes such as ceviche and tacos. Seafood takes centre stage as a nod to Brunswick’s fishing and surf-side community, with offerings designed to pair perfectly with a refreshing beer in the pub’s expansive beer garden. “We’re really excited about this one,” Robertson shared. “We’ve put together dishes that we love to eat, in a quintessential Aussie pub (that we’ve been going to for years) across from the Brunswick River and the ocean. Think Australian bay lobster rolls; pickled octopus; prawn toast with nam jim; and even fried apple pie for something sweet. There’s also a brand new pizza oven going in, so we’re going to be serving epic pizzas, flatbreads and of course, there’ll be a couple of cheeky… Read More

NGV Architecture Commission 2024: Home Truth by Breathe

NGV Architecture Commission 2024 Home Truth By Breathe - Derek Swalwell 1

In a bold reimagining of Australian home design, Home Truth by Breathe has been announced as the winner of the NGV Architecture Commission for 2024. This captivating installation takes the form of a labyrinthine house-within-a-house, challenging the notion of ever-expanding home sizes in Australia. At the heart of this design is a powerful message: rethink how we build to create more sustainable, higher-quality, and community-orientated living spaces. Home Truth invites visitors to step into a space that questions the ethical and ecological ramifications of the sprawling, oversized homes that have become prevalent across the nation. An external frame mirrors the silhouette of the average Australian home, which, at 236 square metres, ranks as the largest globally. Nestled within this silhouette is a serene timber structure, representing a smaller, more sustainable living footprint. This juxtaposition of scales is not just an architectural statement but a call to action. By contrasting these two structures, Home Truth shines a light on how smaller, more considered homes could help reduce suburban sprawl, mitigate environmental impacts, and enhance community wellbeing. It is a thought-provoking invitation for audiences to consider alternative, sustainable housing models that could lead to positive lifestyle changes. Visitors entering through the expansive garage door of the larger house find themselves navigating a maze of rooms and corridors, eventually arriving at the intimate timber retreat. This wooden haven offers a space for meditation and reflection, presenting a tangible vision of a more sustainable housing future. Constructed from framing pine and Saveboard, Home Truth uses materials emblematic of current… Read More

South Eveleigh brings beach vibes to Eveleigh with Summer Club

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Get ready to trade in your winter woollies for sunnies and thongs as South Eveleigh gears up to host its vibrant urban Summer Club this December! Over two weeks beginning on the 2nd, the precinct will transform into a sandy haven of sun-soaked festivities, bringing a slice of beach life and holiday cheer to the heart of the city. Jamie Toko, Mirvac’s Senior Portfolio Manager, shares the excitement, “Following the success of our Winter Series and Live Well programs, we are thrilled to offer the local community a plethora of fun and free activities with our Summer Club, turning South Eveleigh into a beach-themed oasis. From inflatable volleyball to a roving ‘Sandy Clause’, and a designated ‘chill zone’ to unwind, there really is something for everyone.” Kicking off the weekday programme is the Summer Club Kiosk at Innovation Plaza, dishing out daily goodies from 10am to 4pm. The first 130 customers who spend over $10 at any local retailer can swap their receipts for stylish summer swag—think caps, tote bags, and towels. Meanwhile, at the Mini Kiosk in the Interchange Pavilion, visitors can indulge in a rotating selection of classic Aussie beach treats, from old school lolly bags and fresh coconuts to mini pavlovas. For those keen to get active, there’s the inflatable volleyball court open from 8am to 5pm on select days, promising a mix of fun and friendly competition. Or, if you’re up for a challenge, test your balance on the mechanical surfboard, aptly named the ‘Wave Rider’, for a chance to ride… Read More

Suna Fujita, LOEWE & Melbourne Art Fair to exhibit works

LOEWE PRECO SS25 SUNA FUJITA CERAMICS RGB CROPPED 4X5 3 5

In an exciting fusion of art and fashion, Melbourne Art Fair has announced a groundbreaking partnership with LOEWE, the esteemed luxury fashion brand renowned for its dedication to craftsmanship since 1846. This collaboration brings to life an exquisite preview of Jonathan Anderson’s renewed partnership with the Kyoto-based ceramist duo, Suna Fujita, marking a world-first exhibition in Australasia. The LOEWE x Suna Fujita collection made its debut with an intimate showcase at LOEWE’s Melbourne Collins Street store, offering an exclusive viewing experience of twenty whimsical ceramic pieces. These delicate works, celebrated for their intricate hand-painted scenes featuring ocean creatures and cosmic animals, seamlessly blend artistry with everyday function, transforming accessories and ready-to-wear items into enchanting works of art. Fair Director Melissa Loughnan expressed her enthusiasm for this creative union, stating, “This partnership is a reflection of Melbourne Art Fair and LOEWE’s shared commitment to supporting living artists and creatives, and an exciting precursor to the 18th edition of the Fair, which promises to be one of our most dynamic and anticipated showcases yet.” The collaboration not only highlights the playful essence of Suna Fujita’s ceramics but also underscores the vibrant art scene that Melbourne Art Fair champions. Launching today, the LOEWE x Suna Fujita collection is available both in stores and online at loewe.com, continuing until 29th December 2024. This artistic venture paves the way for the 18th edition of Melbourne Art Fair, set to take place from 20-23 February 2025 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. The fair will present a remarkable assembly of… Read More

What’s on for Christmas at QVB Sydney

Christmas tree QVB XMAS 202422

With the festive season fast approaching, the Queen Victoria Building (QVB) in Sydney’s CBD is set to transform into a Christmas wonderland, brimming with musical and cultural delights. This year, the QVB promises to be a must-visit destination, capturing the true essence of Christmas through an array of enchanting events and activities. Kicking off the celebrations, the NCE Sydney Choir will fill the halls with the melodious sounds of the season. Their performances, scheduled every Thursday at 5pm and on Saturdays and Sundays at 1pm from 16th November to 24th December, are sure to uplift and inspire Sydneysiders with the spirit of Christmas. A highlight of this year’s festivities is the unveiling of the QVB’s majestic Christmas tree on 8th November. Standing at an impressive 20 metres, this Wollemi Pine-inspired tree is the tallest indoor Christmas tree in New South Wales. It features a unique First Nations artistic overlay, developed in collaboration with the Boomalli Aboriginal Artists Co-operative. Artists Dr. Bronwyn Bancroft, Jude Jarratt, and Jeffrey Samuels have crafted an immersive experience that celebrates Australia’s rich cultural heritage, drawing from over 60,000 years of Indigenous knowledge. Visitors will marvel at Dr. Bancroft’s interactive installation, which transports guests into a vibrant bush and rainforest setting, complete with the enchanting sounds of endangered birds from “Songs of Disappearance” by The Bowerbird Collective. The tree is adorned with 45 hand-painted flannel flowers by Jarratt and Samuels, visible from the upper floors. On Level 2, guests can enjoy augmented reality experiences featuring Southern Royal Albatross-inspired decorations soaring around the… Read More