Category: CITIES

Where to go for grog: Barrelhouse Cellars

Barrelhouse Cellars bar wine shop

Barrelhouse Group, renowned for its creations Hickson House, The Barber Shop, and The Duke of Clarence, takes great pleasure in introducing its latest venture, Barrelhouse Cellars. This exciting new addition to Sydney’s historical district nestles comfortably in its historic paved courtyard, offering a unique experience that includes individual tastings and themed flight offerings of Australian gins and New World whiskies. Leading the operations of Barrelhouse Cellars is industry stalwart Nick Minogue, who plans to highlight craft producers with a strong Australian focus. The Cellars will feature a private wine collection and a specially-curated selection of spirits to pair with their award-winning Hickson Rd. Gins. As Nick states, “Whether you’re a local popping in on a weeknight, or a traveller seeking a memorable, local shopping experience, we’ll find you the perfect drop.” To enhance the home-serving experience of its patrons, Barrelhouse Cellars also offers bottled cocktails from premier local bars, hand-cut ice, cocktail garnishes, and a range of artisanal cheeses, pates, and charcuterie. The team provides careful packaging for nationwide delivery, or same day in Sydney, via their online store at www.barrelhousecellars.com. As co-founders Julian Train and Mikey Enright state, “The Cellars is the next stage of our longer-term vision for The Rocks. 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.”

Sydney Fringe Festival is back: here’s what’s on

Front row the Marvellous Elephant Man adelaide fringe 2023 © IMAGE CONSTRUCTION 254 1

The Sydney Fringe Festival, the largest independent arts festival in the city, has revealed its spectacular lineup for 2023. The festival, which spans the entire month of September, will feature over 400 events and 12 festival hubs throughout the city. Notable highlights include a special performance by iconic Australian band Rogue Traders for Fringe Ignite, along with a vast array of local and international shows presented across the Made in Sydney and the Touring Hub segments. For the first time, the Sydney Dance Company will host the inaugural Fringe Dance Hub, while the pioneering micro-festival LIMITLESS returns to celebrate the creativity of d/Deaf and disabled artists. The festival kicks off on 2nd September with Fringe Ignite in The Rocks, a free street party featuring the best of Fringe comedy, cabaret, music, dance and more. The streets will come alive with artists performing amidst the historic cobblestone laneways and sandstone buildings, with the Rogue Traders headlining the event at the Argyle mainstage. The Sydney Fringe Cabaret Club will also return with a month-long program of fabulous cabaret shows at the Castlereagh Boutique Hotel. This includes a performance by legendary Australian cabaret performer Naomi Eyers, alongside unforgettable nights of glamour and empowerment with drag royalty Hannah Conda, Charisma Belle, and Carmen Geddit. The festival will also spotlight numerous First Nations artists presenting works throughout the festival, as well as a special FEAST event hosted by Chinese-Australian writer, comedian, and food enthusiast Jennifer Wong at the Hurstville Entertainment Centre. The Made in Sydney program from 5 – 9… Read More

New festival in Melbourne: say ‘hello’ to Now or Never

Now or Never Berthing Place Earthing Space Theatre of Thunder

Introducing the “Now or Never” festival, a groundbreaking artistic event set to light up Melbourne with large-scale outdoor sculptural installations and projections, a 360° pop-up dome cinema and a menagerie of performances at the intersection of creativity and technology. If you were around in Melbourne almost a decade ago, you might remember White Night Melbourne? It was a city-wide music, art and sound festival that meant retailers and bars were open all night in the CBD. Think that, but for 2023. Running until the 2 September, the event will showcase the talents of over 300 local and international artists, composers, innovators, and change makers, with a line-up featuring 18 Australian premieres and 20 exclusive festival commissions. Anticipation is high, with more than 200,000 visitors expected to attend venues across the city during the 17-day festival. With over 70 innovative music performances, immersive digital art installations and thought-provoking daytime talks, the inaugural “Now or Never” program promises a journey into the convergence of art, ideas, sound, and technology, addressing the pressing questions of our future in light of the present moment. Program highlights include a 1.2-kilometre Art Trail in Docklands curated by Experimenta, immersive films in the Neversphere, a pop-up dome in the Melbourne Museum forecourt, and the return of large-scale live music to the historic Royal Exhibition Building for the first time in 20 years. The festival will also showcase an exclusive world premiere of a new composition, a multi-sensory dining experience in the Neversphere, and a series of talks and panels exploring the creativity… Read More

Peruvian in Sydney: welcome Warike to Surry Hills

Peruvian food table flat

In the energetic culinary enclave of Surry Hills, there exists an intriguing gastronomic journey that has been steadily enchanting the palates of Sydney folk. Jointly owned by Luis Guzman, Valeriya Finogeeva, and Executive Chef Hector Chunga, Warike has rapidly ascended to the culinary spotlight, shaking up the scene with its unique intermingling of Peruvian and Mediterranean influences. Warike has become a byword for authenticity, innovation, and the invigorating thrill of novel flavours, evolving from an unassuming home-based start-up into a local dining sensation. “Our journey commenced when I began cooking at home during the lockdown. Our passion for sharing the diverse and stimulating flavours of Peru pushed us to expand beyond the limits of my apartment,” shares Luis Guzman, co-proprietor of Warike. Drawing inspiration from the traditional ‘Warikes’ of Peru—unassuming, hidden dining spots revered for their spectacular food and homely ambience—Warike recreates a similar atmosphere in its 46-seater establishment. The restaurant’s philosophy, which hinges on authenticity and shared enjoyment, is flawlessly reflected in its decor and warm, hospitable service. The creative menu at Warike is a beautiful testament to the harmonious fusion of Peruvian and Mediterranean gastronomy. Chef Chunga, whose rich culinary background spans Peru, Japan, and Australia, uses his enthusiasm and proficiency to design dishes that are as visually appealing as they are flavourful. The star dishes, such as the ‘Ceviche Clásico’ and ‘Lomo Saltado’, embody a perfect blend of Peru’s fresh, lively tastes with the robust, intense flavours of the Mediterranean. The menu adapts with the seasons, allowing Warike to utilise fresh Australian… Read More

Pip Edwards does Asics: PE Nation’s fusion of performance and style

Models sneaker activewear

ASICS, the renowned sport performance brand, and fashion-forward Australian label, P.E Nation, delightfully announce the latest step in their thriving partnership — a dynamic, court-inspired, head-to-toe collection. This much-anticipated release follows the remarkable success of the first two ASICS x P.E Nation collections. With over 20 unique pieces, the latest collection harmoniously fuses ASICS’ sportstyle heritage with P.E Nation’s signature retro sport lens. The goal is simple yet ambitious: to deliver functional, stylish designs that serve as the ultimate all-day uniform for any on and off court moment. The capsule collection features a wide array of items — from skorts, leggings, and zip jackets to sports bras and cycle shorts. Each piece encapsulates the iconic sportstyle essence of both ASICS and P.E Nation, designed to cater to the urban everyday athlete’s wardrobe needs. However, the true showstopper of the collection is the updated ASICS EX89™ MT sneaker, available in two captivating colourways, Black/Glacier Grey; and Pearled Ivory/Burro. The ASICS EX89™ MT x P.E NATION sneaker is a perfect blend of classic basketball and tennis motifs, updated with textured mesh underlays, double laces, and oversized translucent ASICS stripes. It is crafted to navigate everyday scenarios with a distinct sport-meets-street feel. The sneaker’s design incorporates the heritage elements of the GEL-EXTREME basketball shoe from 1989 with modern FF BLAST™ technology, ensuring comfort and style in any setting. “We’re excited to unveil our third collaboration with ASICS,” said Pip Edwards and Claire Tregoning, Co-Founders of P.E Nation. “The collection is a complete capsule designed for both on and… Read More

The Espy does Asian with a dumpling dego and roast duck banquet

Mya Tiger at the Esplanade

Prepare your taste buds for an exciting culinary journey at Mya Tiger at the Hotel Esplanade (The Espy). This month heralds the arrival of two delectable offerings that are guaranteed to delight – a Dumpling Degustation and a Roast Duck Banquet! Starting August 9, the Dumpling Degustation will be served up every Wednesday from 5.30pm. Upon arrival, guests are greeted with a glass of sparkling wine, setting the tone for an evening of indulgent dumpling discovery. The chefs at Mya Tiger have put together an innovative menu that takes the humble dumpling to new heights. Feast on unique creations like Wagyu Beef with Bone Marrow and Red Braised Duck & Candied Cumquat, in addition to some of Mya Tiger’s renowned classics. The Dumpling Degustation is priced at just $39 per person. The Roast Duck Banquet provides a unique twist to the traditional Sunday roast. Beginning on August 13, this extraordinary banquet will be served from 5.30pm every Sunday. Guests can anticipate a glass of sparkling on arrival followed by a tantalising banquet featuring Roast Duck in three ways – classic Roast Duck Pancakes, handmade Braised Duck Dumplings and a final flourish of Crispy Szechuan Duck. Please book in advance as availability is limited each Sunday. The Roast Duck Banquet is also priced at $39 per person. Mya Tiger is your perfect destination for any occasion, offering sumptuous food, refreshing drinks and a welcoming atmosphere. It is open for lunch Tuesday to Sunday from 12.00pm-2.30pm and for dinner daily from 5.30pm. On Fridays and Saturdays, the… Read More

Travelling to Rome this Summer: tips for an unforgettable experience

Rome Colosseum ruins scaled

Visiting Rome, the ‘Eternal City’, is always an enchanting experience, but summer brings a unique charm that promises unforgettable memories. Here are several tips to make your Roman holiday truly remarkable. 1. Travel Smart: Flying into Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport, the major international gateway to Rome, is generally the quickest and most convenient option. Alternatively, Ciampino–G. B. Pastine International Airport, though smaller, could be a cost-effective choice. 2. Stay Hydrated: Rome’s summer can be quite hot, so always carry a water bottle. Luckily, the city is strewn with ‘Nasoni’, or drinking fountains, dispensing cool, potable water – a real godsend in the sweltering heat. 3. Embrace Public Transport: Rome’s public transportation system can be a fantastic way to explore the city. The metro, buses, and trams cover most tourist destinations, and a Roma Pass allows unlimited travel for a certain period. 4. Early Bird Advantage: Famous sites like the Colosseum and Vatican Museums can get excessively crowded. Try visiting early in the morning or late afternoon for a comfortable exploration. 5. Dress Appropriately: Many religious sites require modest clothing – ensure shoulders and knees are covered. Also, comfy shoes are a must given Rome’s cobbled streets. This is a big one! Find out more on the Vatican’s website, for example 6. Night-Time Wandering: Summer evenings in Rome are magical. The city comes alive with outdoor concerts and al fresco dining. Be sure to wander around Trastevere, a vibrant neighborhood known for its nightlife. 7. Book in Advance: To save time and avoid lines, book tickets… Read More

Celebrating World Coffee Day with Pillar: redefining the coffee scene

Pillar coffee

With World Coffee Day approaching on October 1st, there is no better time to explore the vibrant coffee culture and discover new cafes to satisfy our caffeine cravings. One such cafe that deserves a special mention is Pillar. Led by a team of passionate coffee connoisseurs, Pillar is dedicated to redefining the coffee scene and creating a space where coffee lovers can come together and share their experiences. In this blog post, we will dive into the world of Pillar, learn about its founders, explore its unique offerings, and understand why it should be on everyone’s radar for all things coffee and cafe-related. Meet the Founders Pillar is the brainchild of a talented trio who are driven by their love for coffee and their desire to create a strong cafe community. The team consists of Uel Lim, a previous contestant on My Kitchen Rules and co-founder of Kin cafe; Edwin Luo, a seasoned head barista with a passion for crafting exceptional brews; and Nate Tong, an entrepreneurial leader with a vision to build a thriving cafe culture. Together, they bring a wealth of experience and expertise to Pillar, ensuring an unforgettable coffee experience for all who visit. A Space for Connection Like many of us, the founders of Pillar have experienced life-changing moments over a simple cup of coffee. These moments of connection and inspiration have laid the foundation for Pillar, a space where people can come together and share their stories. From catching up with friends to business meetings or simply enjoying a peaceful… Read More

Conservation meets craftsmanship: Rhino Orphanage co-founder acquires the White Rhino Gin Company

White Rhino gin

In a remarkable union of conservation and craftsmanship, Pete Richardson, co-founder of the world’s first baby rhino orphanage, has made an exciting acquisition. Pete has acquired The White Rhino Gin Company Ltd and the Urban Rhino gin brand, marking a significant milestone in his journey while introducing a limited-edition legacy batch that is set to captivate gin enthusiasts worldwide. Pete Richardson, a dedicated conservationist, was working in The Waterberg area of Limpopo in South Africa when the devastating rhino poaching crisis hit the headlines back in 2012. Alongside fellow conservationist Arrie van Deventer, Pete took action to save the orphaned babies and together, they established the world’s first purpose-built facility – The Rhino Orphanage. Despite now residing in the UK, Pete remains an active director of the orphanage, tirelessly working towards protecting and rehabilitating these magnificent creatures. Through his connection with the orphanage, Pete crossed paths with Belinda Chaffer, the driving force behind Waterberg Rhino UK, who introduced him to the owners of The White Rhino Gin Company. Enthralled by the shared vision, Pete expressed his excitement about this unique opportunity, stating, “When I met Belinda and the owners of the company, it felt like destiny. We quickly realized the incredible potential to build a global brand with Urban Rhino gin while supporting the remarkable conservation efforts of both Waterberg Rhino UK and The Rhino Orphanage. I’m thrilled about the possibilities that lie ahead.” Crafted with meticulous care, Urban Rhino is an exceptional London dry gin that has garnered high praise from customers and businesses… Read More

Best places to watch the footy in Sydney this July

Women football footy pub

As the winter chill descends upon Sydney, there’s no better way to keep the adrenaline pumping than by catching a live football match. Whether you’re an ardent fan of the beautiful game or a casual onlooker seeking an electric atmosphere, Sydney boasts several spots that offer an unparalleled viewing experience. This July, the city is set to become a football lover’s paradise, with action-packed matches scheduled throughout the month. In this article, we’ll guide you through the best locales in Sydney to enjoy live football, immerse yourself in the thrill of each goal, and revel in the camaraderie of fellow enthusiasts. CBD and inner-city FIFA Fan Festival – The FIFA Fan Festival™ will bring together football fans, families and fun-seekers with a buzzing festival atmosphere where visitors can watch EVERY match of the tournament live on the big screens. With live music performances from acts like Jessica Mauboy, delicious street food feasts, a football playground and the first FIFA Museum in Australia, there is something for everyone from 20th July at Tumbalong Park in Darling Harbour. Cheers Bar – With 24-hour opening, plenty of screens, pub grub, a wide selection of drinks and a CBD location, Cheers Bar is always a popular destination for sports fans. The atmosphere will be electric during Matildas games, and fans and visitors from around the world are always welcome. The Star Sydney 24/7 Sports Bar – The Star’s 24/7 Sports Bar is a popular location to watch live football action is likely to be no exception. There are more than 50 LCD TVs, a huge LED screen, and… Read More