Category: CITIES

Make the most of freedom: drinks at the Argyle Sydney

Posted: 14/11/2020

It’s summer, we’re free and you need to go out with friends. The Argyle has you covered and has turned itself into an oasis of alcohol-fuelled enjoyment to keep you ticking the whole weekend. A summery oasis in the heart of the city, it comes complete with tropical flowers and vines cascading from the ceiling and intertwined with lights, disco balls and inflatable swimming pool paraphernalia. Just to get you in the mood. Head into the Argyle every Wednesday to Saturday from 4pm to 7pm and treat yourself to two floors, six bars and safe socialising measures in place for a themed summer soiree on the calendar every Friday night. Entry is free, but bookings are recommended. Dress in theme for ultimate selfie satisfaction. For more, head to the Argyle website.

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

Tags: Argyle Sydney, Best places drinks Sydney, Freedom drinks Sydney, Make the most of freedom drinks at the Argyle Sydney, sydney bars, sydney drinks guide

Drink in a garden bubble by Sydney Harbour at Pier One Hotel

by James Banham

Updated: 11/11/2020

Perched upon the balcony of one of the Pier One Hotels’ incredible Harbour View Balcony Suites, you’ll find an outdoor oasis is filled with lush greenery and trendy rattan furniture, utilising the best views in Sydney. Floral arrangements by the creatives at POHO Flowers sit amongst the space, with cushions and throws adding pastel pops of colour. Come sunset, a floral chandelier and scattered fairy lights illuminate the space, complete with spanning water and cityscape views. You want pretty? Done. Whimsical? Deal. Stunning environs? Tick. Grammable? You know it. With food and bev packages, choose from Mediterranean style, cheese and charcuterie or indulgent desserts, or add one of the feasting menu packages to graze on throughout the day. In addition to the abundant wine list, Pier One Hotel have also created a series of colourful glitter cocktails, with delicious summer flavour combinations; perfect to soak up the sun and enjoy in the Garden Bubble. Keen? Make a booking at the Pier One Hotel’s website

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

Tags: Drink in a garden bubble by Sydney Harbour at Pier One Hotel, drinks sydney, Harbour drinks Sydney, Pier One Hotel Bubble Sydney, Pier One Hotel Sydney

Get your lols: the new comedy event by Young Henrys and Jameson Whiskey

by THE F

Posted: 11/11/2020

At the end of month on 26 November, head down to the Factory Theatre in Sydney for a laugh. Thanks to YOung Henrys and Jameson Whiskey, there’s a one-night-only event on: Comedy Rock Show. Expect to loosen up with a killer lineup of Australia’s best stand-up comedic talents including Gen Fricker, Becky Lucas, Dan Rath and more. Tickets will be on sale via factorytheatre.com.au from Tuesday, November 3 at $25 (includes 1x Young Henrys 1x Jamo tinnie), with all proceeds going towards Save Our Stages NSW, a cause dedicated to giving support and relief for struggling live music spaces, such as the epic Factory Theatre.

Category: ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

The new Toyota Yaris test drive: compact in size but clean, green and huge on safety features

by Emi Berry

Updated: 16/11/2022

Good looks. Tick. Compact. Tick. Safety features. Tick. Hybrid option. Tick. The latest Toyota Yaris is hard to go past if you’re in the market for a compact-sized vehicle. There are three grades available in the new Yaris range – Ascent Sport, the SX, and the top of the range, ZR. If cleaner and greener are high on your list of priorities, the hybrid version (available in the SX and ZR) delivers outstanding performance and efficiency by combining the benefits of an electric motor with a petrol engine. We test drove the ZR and the verdict is out – the 1.5L Toyota Hybrid System with auto CVT is big on safety features, technology, and fuel efficiency. Providing a smooth and comfortable ride, the Yaris is perfect for city driving and squeezing into those tight, awkward parking spots with the assistance of front and rear parking sensors as well as a reversing camera (which is standard across the range). But with cutting edge safety technology such as the head-up display, blind-spot monitor, lane trace assist (steering assistance when you’re out of line), and pre-collision safety system, this is also the perfect ride for those long, out-of-town road trips. There’s no danger of cramping your style as there’s ample space to throw in your luggage, plus extra space designed underneath the floor of the boot. One of the first things you notice when you turn the engine on is how quiet the hybrid system is. You have to check twice to make sure the car is actually… Read More

Category: CARS, CITIES, FEATURES, LIFESTYLE

Tags: Australian car test drive, Car blog, toyota, Toyota Australia, Toyota blog, toyota yaris, Toyota Yaris 2020 revies, Toyota Yaris test drive, Toyotas test drive review, Toyots 2020 test drive, Yaris

A Night in Paris at Beresford Sundays in Sydney

by James Banham

Posted: 28/10/2020

Paris is camp and now the Beresford is serving itself as its rival. Welcome to a Night in Paris at Sydney’s Beresford by Merivale. It’ll be gay. It’ll be colourful. It’ll be new and exciting and it’ll be happening weekly from now. Partnering with Absolut as they’ve done for many Pride activities in the past, they’re proud to present a brand new night of entertainment – A Night in Paris live cabaret show at Upstairs Beresford. The first show went live and sold out within 48 hours! Starring Minnie Cooper, Jacqui St Hyde and Mynx Moscato with the eye candy of Troy and Hayden. Minnie Cooper is very excited to be combing her singing talents with her love of production drag shows. Guests can enjoy an Absolut cocktail on arrival, 3 course meal and 2 half-hour shows, including cabaret, comedy and sex of the Moulin Rouge.Tickets are $65 and can be purchased from the Beresford site.

Category: CITIES, LGBTIQ, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

Tags: beresford, Beresford Night in Paris, Beresford Paris, Beresford Sydney, Sydney gay bars

3 places to eat, drink and celebrate Melbourne Cup in Sydney this November 2020

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

The world has suck this year. No other descriptions will do. BUT thankfully, there’s a way to make it all right again. And that’s the Melbourne Cup. Flemington will proceed with the race, but in a weird, eerie silence, the commission has confirmed – as no trackside punters will be permitted. So, don your best and head down to the Star in Sydney for three offers in three quality venues to keep you going all afternoon. Sokyo Tuesday 3 November 2020 Executive Chef Chase Kojima’s Melbourne Cup menu is Tokyo-cool with an ever-so-Sydney twist. At $130pp, the share menu features a selection of premium sushi and lavish delights such as Kingfish Miso Ceviche, Tuna Sashimi, Pumpkin Tempura, Miso Glazed Toothfish and Wagyu Flank Steak 200g. More information at Sokyo’s website BLACK Bar & Grill Fresh from success as the Official Chef Partner of The Everest Carnival, Dany Karam has crafted a spectacular Melbourne Cup menu. Indulge in your choice of three dishes across three courses, each one a culinary winner! At $165pp, with a glass of Glass of NV Möet & Chandon on arrival, featured mains include: Corn Risotto, Grilled Cuttlefish, Red Mullet, Parmigiana Reggiano King Salmon Herb Crusted, Semolina Gnocchi, Citrus Sabayon, Pearl Onions, Eggplant Caviar Fillet Wagyu MBS 7+ Wood Grilled, Smoked Potato, Charred Onion, Shiraz Sauce More information at Black Bar’s website Flying Fish Sydney’s most magnificent seafood served in abundance to share, coupled with a melt-in-the-mouth Scotch Fillet platter and irresistible desserts. This four-course feast, overlooking the sparkling harbour, promises to elevate your Melbourne Cup… Read More

Category: CITIES, FEATURES, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

Tags: melbourne cup guide, Melbourne Cup Sydney guide, What to do Melbourne Cup, Where to go Melbourne Cup Sydney

What to do for Melbourne Cup in Sydney after Covid-19

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

There’s no lying, it’s been an average year. So let’s join up in trying to send the last few months of it off with some sort of a – probably lame – bang, but a bang nonetheless! Pier One Sydney Harbour is set to host The Maison Mumm Hotel “off track” for Melbourne Cup this year – bringing guests G.H. Mumm’s flagship Melbourne Cup day celebration to Sydney. Here’s what to look forward to. Admiral Suite Private Party or Harbour Balcony Suite Private Party Spend Melbourne Cup in Pier One’s most luxe suites with uninterrupted views of the Harbour Bridge, Sydney Harbour and Luna Park from your own private balcony. Guests will indulge in canapés, overflowing grazing boards, a luxe barbecue menu. Some suites include their own private chef for a truly luxe experience. Enjoy a four-hour beverage package including G.H.Mumm Champagne served by a private waiter and a “feature bath” filled with bottles of champagne or decadent desserts while the race action plays on a flatscreen TV.Capacity: 10 GuestsPrice: $5,500Duration: 4 hours + overnight stay for 2 guests Exclusive Harbourside Pier Booths Gather with friends or colleagues on the pier at Pier One. The exclusive Pier Booths are located on the pier outside Bar One with stunning views of Walsh Bay. Have your choice of a food and beverage package or pre-order from our Bar One menu. Enjoy Pier One’s harbourside location while you watch the “race that stops the nation”.Capacity: 10 GuestsPrice: $1,000 minimum spendDuration: 3 hours The Gantry Restaurant will also be… Read More

Category: CITIES, FEATURES, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

Tags: melbourne cup sydney, Sydney Melbourne Cup guide, What to do for Melbourne Cup in Sydney after Covid-19, What to do Melbourne Cup Sydney

London: The Columbia Hotel’s got a new thing going on

by James Banham

Posted: 12/10/2020

Amy Winehouse was a fan. So was Oasis. And now, you will be, too. The Columbia Hotel in London fast-became synonymous with trendy hangouts and quality bevs and they’ve recently redone their look along with what’s on. In collaboration with local artists, the hotel’s unveiled an exciting transformation and has launched five private dining lounges and intimate day-to-night bars showcasing pieces-to-purchase from emerging artists including Kate Bellm, Yulia Iosilzon and artists from Roman Road Gallery, in which the artists will rotate every quarter. What’s it all for? Well, The Columbia is all about providing support for two industries that have been hit hard by the pandemic around the world. They want to provide a safe and intimate space to socialise and soak-up visual art while providing a platform for artists to showcase their work outside of the traditional gallery space. And there’s a room deal too, if after the new menu on offer and cultural inundation, you need to just roll up and crash. Check it all out at the Columbia website.

Category: CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, LONDON

How to get your mitts on Nando’s new mouth-watering secret menu item.

by Emi Berry

Updated: 07/10/2020

Two words. Loaded chips. Are you frothing yet? You should be, because for a limited time only, Nando’s is offering their signature PERi-PERi Chips with a mix of juicy grilled capsicum, tomato, and onion, lathered in your choice of legendary PERi-PERi basting. On top of that, there’s a big dollop of creamy aioli and smoky capsicum relish finished off with tangy feta cheese. But there’s a catch! Before you can get your hands on this drool-worthy feast, there’s one small caveat. You have to be a PERi-Perks loyalty member to score yourself a serve of Nando’s ‘secret’ loaded chips. It will only be available on Nando’s new app for iOS or Android, via the website or ‘on request’ in the restaurant. Nando’s Loaded Chips are available for dine-in or takeaway for $9 without protein, $13 with grilled PERi-PERi Chicken Tenders or Superfood Veggie Patty, or $14 with a Great Pretender. When you join Nando’s PERi-Perks club, you’ll be rewarded for your appetite with exclusive access to member-only offers (like the loaded chips deal), freebies on your birthday, plus you’ll earn one PERi-Perks point for every $1 spent. The loaded chips are available until 1 November 2020, so all you need to do is jump on the app, online or head into a Nando’s restaurant and join Nando’s PERi-Perks loyalty program. To check out the rest of the Nando’s menu here.

Category: AUSTRALIAN FOOD, FOOD & DRINK, SYDNEY

Tags: chicken restaurant sydney, chicken shop, chicken sydney, nandos

Am I art? I don’t know: see inside the latest works by Queensland artist Michael Zavros

by James Banham

Updated: 18/10/2020

Sydney art gallery, Sullivan+Strumpf in Zetland have partnered with Michael Zavros to present something truly unique. A Guy Like Me is the latest body of work by Zavros, opening Thursday 15 October until 14 November. Best known for his beautifully realised award-winning paintings, this upcoming exhibition marks a detour into new and exciting territory, in which Michael introduces us to his avatar: a plastic mannequin modelled on himself but better – 6 foot 3, broader, more cut, a bit younger and a whole lot smoother. This fascinating creature, which Zavros refers to as “Dad” may also be a better human being, as the artist ponders the improvements that are possible in constructing art to imitate (and enhance) his very life itself. Captured in a series of sumptuously styled large-scale magazine-style photographs, Dad is perfectly at home stepping into Michael’s designer shoes. Head to the Sullivan+Strumpf website for more.

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

Tags: Art blog, Australian art, Sullivan Strumpf, Sydney art gallery, the f art, THE F Sullivan Strumpf

ARTS & CULTURE

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Experience break dancing like never before this MAy

24/04/2024

By James Banham

Get ready to experience the ultimate celebration of hip hop culture, innovation, and artistry at Breakin’ Convention 2024. An international festival of Hip Hop dance theatre, it’ll be taking over Sadler’s Wells in Islington this coming May Bank Holiday. Enthusiastically helmed by the visionary UK hip hop maker and Breakin’ Convention Artistic Director Jonzi D, this festival has become a beacon for fans and creators of hip hop from around the globe. The excitement is palpable as we gear up for two days packed with jaw-dropping performances, interactive workshops, and live music that promise to electrify the Sadler’s Wells venues on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 May. With an extraordinary lineup featuring international sensations like Femme Fatale (USA), Sons of Wind (France), and Jinjo crew (South Korea), alongside groundbreaking UK acts such as TRAPLORD, Boy Blue, and When Time Was New, this festival is set to showcase the dynamic and diverse world of hip hop dance theatre. Attendees of all ages can look forward to a vast array of activities including spectacular dance performances, bespoke graffiti workshops, freestyle sessions, and even live DJs sessions that guarantee to keep the energy high and the spirit of hip hop alive throughout the entire building. Not to mention, the festival coincides with the historic moment of breaking becoming an official Olympic sport at the Paris Olympics, adding an extra layer of exhilaration to the festivities. Beyond the performances, Breakin’ Convention 2024 invites audiences to engage directly with the hip hop community through unique events such as the Tiny… Read More

Opera Australia orchestrates a new era with Matthieu Arama as Concertmaster

24/04/2024

By James Banham

In a move that marks a significant milestone in its illustrious history, Opera Australia has announced the appointment of the renowned French violinist Matthieu Arama as the new Concertmaster of the Opera Australia Orchestra (OAO). This announcement follows an exhaustive global search, culminating in Mr. Arama’s selection, a testament to his extraordinary talent and leadership abilities. Set to join the OAO in August of this year, Arama brings with him a wealth of experience as the current Concertmaster of the Opéra National de Bordeaux, coupled with an impressive track record of performances with some of the world’s most distinguished conductors. View this post on Instagram A post shared by matthieu arama (@matthieu_arama) Arama’s role will be pivotal in steering the OAO towards achieving artistic brilliance across its broad annual repertoire, which spans over 250 opera, ballet, musical theatre, and concert performances for Opera Australia and The Australian Ballet. His recent engagements as Guest Concertmaster for Opera Australia on iconic productions such as La Traviata and Swan Lake, alongside The Australian Ballet, and a solo recital featuring opera and ballet excerpts, underscore his extraordinary versatility and musicianship. The enthusiasm within the OAO is palpable, with Acting Concertmaster Huy-Nguen Bui expressing excitement over welcoming Arama to the helm. “The OAO is excited to welcome an exceptional violinist and musician as our new Concertmaster. We look forward to reaching the highest levels of music-making through Mr. Arama’s artistic leadership,” said Bui. This sentiment is echoed by Opera Australia’s CEO Fiona Allan, Artistic Director Jo Davies, The Australian Ballet’s… Read More

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 James Banham

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.