Category: SYDNEY

Cinco de Mayo in Sydney: The Lansdowne and The Happy Mexican Fiesta

Mexican food people

Get ready to spice up your Cinco de Mayo festivities, Sydney! This year, The Lansdowne, a beloved city staple since the roaring ’20s, is flipping the script from its usual brews to an explosion of margarita madness, blending its historic allure with a twist of fresh excitement. What’s more exhilarating is the arrival of Melbourne’s culinary sensation, The Happy Mexican, making its grand debut at the iconic Lansdowne Hotel to sprinkle some authentic Mexican fiesta into your celebrations. Launching the party vibes early in April, and leading into the Cinco de Mayo spirit, The Happy Mexican will be dishing out irresistible $2 tacos every evening from 5-6pm. Yes, you heard it right – it’s a taco fiesta, and everyone’s invited, no RSVPs required! Brace yourselves for a lineup of tantalizing flavors, from succulent roasted chicken breast and zesty marinated pork to crispy beer-battered fish and the show-stopping slow-cooked beef birria tacos. Vegetarian delights like Calabacitas and Nopales aren’t forgotten, ensuring a plate for every preference. Behind this culinary revolution is the genius, Julian Romero, and head chef Jesus Rios, a maestro of Mexican cuisine from Mexico City, bringing over twenty years of experience to dazzle Sydney’s adventurous palates. “We’re thrilled to serve up a spectrum of unique, authentic flavors right from the heart of Mexico to Chippendale,” says Rios. With legendary dishes like Quesabirrias and a diverse menu catering to all dietary needs, The Happy Mexican promises an unforgettable dining experience. But what’s a fiesta without drinks to toast? The Lansdowne’s drink menu is equally… Read More

Where to have a Mexican fiesta in Sydney

White people eat

It’s that time of the year again, where the flavours of Mexico descend upon us with an exuberance that can only be found at SoCal’s Taco & Tequila Fiesta! This year, we’re turning the heat up with a lineup of events that promise not just a taste, but a full immersion into the vibrant Mexican culture. From the toe-tapping tunes of a live Mariachi band to the adrenaline-pumping chilli eating contest, we’re serving excitement on a platter! Cinco De Mayo Launch Party – The Ultimate Sunday Session Mark your calendars for May 5th because we’re kicking off the festivities with a bang! Immerse yourself in the ultimate party atmosphere as we transform our space to celebrate Cinco De Mayo. Enjoy live music, $15 margaritas, and tacos that will have you coming back for more. The fun starts at 1 pm with an acoustic duo and ramps up with a DJ and a surprise Mariachi band performance. Trust us; you don’t want to miss this! Find out more about the Cinco De Mayo Party Taste of Mexico, Dinner & A Show – A Culinary Journey On Thursday 9th & Thursday 23rd May, join us for a special evening that whisks you away to the heart of Mexico. Prepare to be mesmerized by a live Mexican dancing show while indulging in a sumptuous feast curated by our Head Chef Joel Doyle. At $79 per person, including a starter, main, side, and dessert – plus a welcoming margarita – it’s an experience that marries flavor with culture. Book… Read More

Whiskey pop-up in Sydney with Glenfiddich

Glenfiddish art aid

Get ready to immerse yourself in a world where art meets whisky, colour meets taste, and every sip supports an incredible cause! Glenfiddich, the world’s most awarded single malt Scotch whisky, is thrilled to announce its latest collaboration with the dynamic Australian multidisciplinary artist Jordan Gogos. Introducing the ‘Glenfiddich x Jordan Gogos Pop-Up bar’, a spellbinding experience located in the heart of Sydney’s bustling CBD at 200 George Street. This pop-up bar, curated in partnership with the innovative ART AID, is where your love for whisky, art, and philanthropy collide. From April 17th to May 8th, 2024, Dean & Nancy on 22 will transform into a vibrant oasis of creativity. Imagine sipping on exquisite signature whisky cocktails as you’re surrounded by an eclectic mix of colourful textile art, sculptural furniture, and previously unseen art pieces by Jordan Gogos himself. This event isn’t just an exhibition; it’s an invitation to step into a realm where each element is meticulously designed to challenge the borders between gallery space and immersive sensory exploration. At the heart of this experience is the collection of unseen works from Jordan Gogos, spanning art, furniture, to fashion, all inspired by the distinct colourways of Glenfiddich’s iconic aged whisky expressions. Prepare to engage with art in a way you’ve never before, as Gogos’ installation invites you not just to observe, but to interact and become an integral part of the artistic narrative. It’s all about blurring the lines, creating moments, and inspiring conversations in an ambiance that’s entirely unique to this collaboration. Things… Read More

Where to go for good seafood in Bondi

Seafood trays

Welcome to the future of seafood dining – welcome to Uncut Seafood Delicatessen. This isn’t just another fish shop; it’s a vibrant revolution brought to life by the dynamic Lucas siblings – Nic, Jack, and Kaitlin. Opening its doors on April 26th on bustling Bondi Road, this delicatessen is the culmination of a lifelong passion, a rich family legacy in fish mongering, and an ambitious dream turned reality. At Uncut Seafood Delicatessen, forget everything you thought you knew about traditional seafood joints. This is where the Lucas trio’s vision comes to life, offering a fresh, modern spin on seafood that’s as delightful to your health as it is to your taste buds. Gone are the days of heavy, fried fish dishes. Instead, prepare your palate for an elevated seafood experience that prioritises freshness, flavour, and nutritional value. Step inside, and you’ll find yourself enveloped in an atmosphere that blends the sophistication of a high-end designer boutique with the inviting warmth of a family-run establishment. Every detail, from the Taj Mahal quartzite countertops to the bespoke zellige tiled walls and refined brass accents, tells a story of meticulous design and an unwavering commitment to creating a memorable dining experience. But the real magic lies in the menu. Directly sourced from local Australian fishermen and the renowned Sydney fish markets, every dish served is a testament to the Lucas family’s rich heritage and unparalleled expertise in seafood. Whether you opt for dine-in or take-away, you’re in for a treat with their freshly cut sashimi, perfectly shucked oysters,… Read More

Opera Australia orchestrates a new era with Matthieu Arama as Concertmaster

Mathieu Arama musician violin

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

A place to eat in Coogee: Marra Bar & Grill

Coogee Bay Hotel Sydney

As the leaves turn and we welcome the cooler, more reflective seasons of autumn and winter, the Coogee Bay Hotel proudly unveils its latest culinary delights at the renowned Marra Bar & Grill. This eagerly anticipated menu refresh aligns perfectly with the launch of the “Quintessentially Coogee” campaign, a heartfelt initiative designed to reward patrons and cement the hotel’s deep-rooted allegiance to its local community. Nestled in the vibrant heart of Coogee and boasting unparalleled views of its iconic beach, Marra Bar & Grill has long stood as a beacon of exceptional dining. This season’s offerings bring to the table an enriched palette of flavors, starting with perfectly seared Scallops atop a rustic blend of crushed peas and potato scallops – a true homage to autumn’s bounty. The curated Charcuterie Board, with its fine selection of Ortiz anchovies, delicately shaved jamón, and De Palma salami, along with marinated olives and pickles, provides the perfect shareable feast for those crisp coastal evenings. Continuing with the theme of comforting classics, the menu features the heartwarming Bangers & Mash—pork & fennel sausages served over a bed of silky colcannon and finished with a mustard jus. The oven-roasted half chicken, accompanied by kipfler potatoes seasoned with thyme and parmesan, captures the essence of home-cooked warmth. For those seeking a more refined touch to the traditional pub fare, the Wagyu Burger offers a gourmet twist, and the zesty Chicken Wings, served with a cooling ranch dressing, promise to tantalize the taste buds. Seafood lovers are not forgotten, with the Casarecce… Read More

Public performance in Randwick Sydney by artist Lauren Brincat

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

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

New market in Sydney: Maroubra Beach Markets

JessicaNashPhotography WentworthPointMarkets089

Nestled along the picturesque shores of Maroubra Beach, a new wave of excitement is set to sweep through Sydney’s east as the vibrant Maroubra Beach Markets make their debut on Sunday 5 May 2024. Boasting a stunning backdrop of sun-kissed sands and azure waters, these monthly markets at Broadarrow Reserve promise an indulgent mix of more than 100 stalls brimming with high-quality offerings, ranging from fresh produce to artisanal delights, fashion statements, homeware treasures, botanical wonders, creative crafts, blooming flora, and captivating art pieces. Market enthusiasts can tantalize their taste buds at the onsite dining areas, savoring delectable treats from a diverse array of hot food vendors. For those with a passion for sustainable shopping, a dedicated section showcasing vintage and recycled goods awaits, providing a treasure trove of eco-friendly finds to explore and cherish. Initiated by the Randwick City Council in collaboration with esteemed market provider Cambridge Markets, these seaside markets aim to foster community spirit and invigorate the local economy. Randwick Mayor Philipa Veitch lauds the markets as a vibrant addition that not only brings the residents together but also beckons visitors from afar to immerse in the coastal charm of Maroubra Beach. Mayor Veitch expresses, “The Maroubra Beach markets will not only enliven our outdoor spaces but also create a recurring event for our community to eagerly anticipate each month, enticing Sydneysiders to discover the beauty of our beachside suburb.” Director of Cambridge Markets, Madelienne Andersen, echoes the sentiment, hailing the beachside location as the perfect setting for a monthly celebration of… Read More

What’s on at this year’s Pyrmont Festival in Sydney

Pyrmonth Festival Sydney Tim Pascoe

Prepare your palates for an extraordinary journey of flavours, as Pyrmont Festival makes its grand return to Sydney this May 2024. Celebrating its 12th year, the festival promises an even grander array of delectable food, exquisite wines, craft beers and gin tastings, coupled with vibrant live entertainment. Over two family-friendly days, on 18-19 May, experience the pinnacle of NSW’s rich culinary heritage set against the picturesque backdrop of Sydney Harbour at Pirrama Park. Alex Gibbs, the Pyrmont Festival Director, highlighted, “This year, we have welcomed an impressive lineup of winemakers, brewers, and distillers from across NSW, featuring producers from regions such as Orange, Mudgee, Murrumbateman, and the Hunter Valley. Local businesses will shine throughout the festival, including an Aburi and Oyster Bar in Pirrama Park. We’ve created an event that’s welcoming for families and perfect for a first date. Everyone is welcome.” Anticipate a sensory explosion with over 20 wineries, breweries, and distilleries showcasing their finest alongside gourmet food trucks and stands offering a smorgasbord of cuisines. Elbourne Wines, Tulloch Wines, and Hungerford Hill are just a few of the renowned names attendees can look forward to, along with the first-ever Canberra District winery to participate, McKellar Ridge Wines. For those with a penchant for spirits, the festival does not disappoint, featuring distilleries like Finders Distillery and Scylla Distilling Co., plus craft beers by White Bay Beer Co. Culinary delights will range from dynamic Asian street food at The Star’s Fat Noodle stand, created by chef Luke Nguyen, to a variety of cuisines provided by… Read More