Category: SYDNEY

Bottomless aperitivo at Don Fred Sydney

Don Fred pasta wine

Bid farewell to the days of endless eggs Benedicts and mimosas at brunch; it’s time to embrace the Italian flair of ‘Bottomless Aperitivo’ at Don Fred, nestled in the vivacious Newtown. This culinary delight has been a cornerstone of Italian culture for generations, and now Sydneysiders have the pleasure of indulging in this timeless tradition. Nothing captures the essence of Italian dining like the leisurely spread of exquisitely crafted courses, each designed to tantalize the palate, complemented by a cascade of curated spritzes. Priced with charm and accessibility in mind, at $49 per person, a three-course extravaganza awaits you at this newly unveiled Paninoteca Bar, serving adoring patrons from Friday to Sunday, noon till the stars claim the sky. But for those with a penchant for something truly spectacular, the ‘Bottomless Spritz’ offering beckons. Indulge in the zesty and spirited effervescence of an Aperol or Lemon Gin Spritz for an additional $65 per person—an accompaniment that transforms dining into a celebration.Don Fred’s menu is a symphony of culinary delights: start with a delicate capsicum carpaccio or the inventive garlic konjac with black rice, move on to a hearty polpetz on polenta, and conclude with a choice of a decadent chocolate mousse or a tropical coconut pannacotta. Please note, this elegant feast requires an online booking for a minimum duo of gourmands. Don Fred’s ‘Bottomless Aperitivo’ doesn’t just offer a meal; it offers an experience—a chance to seamlessly blend the enjoyment of splendid food and drink with the joy of conversation and camaraderie. Situated at 28… Read More

Mardi Gras party at the parade on Hyde Park

Pullman Sydney Mardi Gras party

Step inside the wonder of Sydney’s most vibrant prelude to the legendary festival—the PRE-GAME MARDI GRAS PARTY at Pullman Sydney Hyde Park is the place to kickstart your celebration in style. Unleash your spirit, UN-HYDE YOUR PRIDE, and revel in an evening where the world truly is your playground. They’re calling all fun-loving souls to level up your Mardi Gras experience; don’t just join the parade, lead it with flamboyance and panache! As the sun dips below the horizon on Saturday, 2nd March 2024, prepare for an extravaganza from 5pm to 9pm. Enjoy the luxury of first-class entertainment, free flowing drinks, delicious roaming bites, and the hottest DJs setting the mood for an evening brimming with good vibes. And remember, part of our allure is location, location, location—you’ve got front row access to the parade’s radiant beginning. The time to hesitate is over! Secure your ticket today with our FIRST RELEASE at $229—because why wait when you can ensure your spot at this spectacular gathering? Remember, prices ascend with each release, and you’ll want to be part of the most fabulous Mardi Gras party in Sydney. So dress to impress, rally your friends, and let’s make memories that will sparkle long past the last float has passed. Let’s make this Mardi Gras one for the history books together because when it comes to celebrating love and equality, we don’t just party, we soar. Book here

Kowloon Cafe Express opens in Chatswood, Sydney

Chinese Kowloon Cafe

Chatswood has just welcomed its latest culinary gem, the renowned Kowloon Cafe Express, which opened its doors on the 12th of January, 2024. This marks the fourth establishment under the Kowloon Cafe umbrella, breathing life into Chatswood’s vibrant food scene with its unique Hong Kong-inspired ambience and cuisine. The grand opening of Kowloon Cafe Express is not merely the inauguration of another eatery; it symbolises an ongoing commitment to delivering an authentic slice of Hong Kong, artistically curated by Howin Chui and Howard Leei. The duo, known for their expertise in crafting niche Asian dining experiences, continue to weave cultural threads from their native Hong Kong into Sydney’s tapestry, encapsulating rich traditions with every dish served. “Howin’s vision to translate the spirit of Hong Kong into every element of his cafes – from melody to menu – has been once again realised with the opening of Chatswood’s Kowloon Cafe Express,” commented Darren Kong of Kong Studios, the architectural maestro behind the cafe’s design. Passersby can step off the bustling streets into a haven of nostalgia and new memories, perfect for fast-paced Sydneysiders who still covet the pleasure of dining. The cafe’s highlights include the Crispy Butter Pineapple Bun, the equally photogenic and palate-pleasing Hong Kong-style French Toast, and an array of beverages from traditional HK Style Condensed Milk Tea to the inventive Ribena with Vanilla Ice Cream. With Chui at the helm, Kowloon Cafe Express is set to become a cornerstone of culinary excellence in Chatswood, reinforcing the suburb’s status as a go-to destination for… Read More

Don Fred Sydney is hosting bottomless

Millon rose wine

Whilst the art of savoring a meal has been perfected by Italians for centuries, Sydneysiders are now invited to embrace this tradition of leisurely summer dining within Newtown’s lively streets. At Don Fred, a genuine Italian Paninoteca Bar has opened its doors on 28 King Street, presenting a luscious three-course set menu at just $49 per person. From noon to evening, every Friday through Sunday, treat yourself to this exquisite experience from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Elevate the occasion with our Bottomless Spritz option for an additional $65 per person, enjoying endless sips of aromatic Aperol or tangy Lemon Gin Spritz. These effervescent libations are the perfect complement to your elegant dining affair and spirited exchanges, adding a refreshing zest that encapsulates the essence of summer*. The crafted menu includes: Whether it’s to relax post-work, rendezvous with friends, or indulge in a pre-dinner aperitivo before delving into Sydney’s dynamic nightlife, Don Fred’s Bottomless Aperitivo embodies the epitome of summer evenings spent unwinding in style. Address: 28 King Street, Newtown, New South Wales, 2042, Sydney, Australia. Wednesday – Sunday, 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM.

Where to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Sydney

Valentines food meal dinner plate table wine

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

Opera Australia & Pinchgut Opera do ‘Theodora in Concert’

Theodora okpera people books

This February, the Joan Sutherland Theatre at the Sydney Opera House will be filled with the rich sounds of Handel’s ‘Theodora’, thanks to an unprecedented collaboration between two of Australia’s leading opera companies – Opera Australia and Pinchgut Opera. For the first time in their illustrious histories, these two giants of the opera scene have joined forces to present ‘Theodora in Concert’, marking the first Handel opera programmed by OA in the past decade. This thrilling collaboration gives audiences a rare chance to experience Handel’s captivating score, performed in English by some of Australia’s most renowned early music specialists. Pinchgut Opera, renowned for their renditions of seldom-performed 17th and 18th-century masterpieces, will be making their Sydney Opera House stage debut with this production. The artistic prowess of Erin Helyard, Co-Founder and Artistic Director of Pinchgut Opera, along with acclaimed opera director Lindy Hume, promise a performance of exceptional quality. Australian soprano Samantha Clarke, fresh off a widely celebrated debut performance as Violetta in OA’s La Traviata, will be stepping into the titular role of Theodora. Clarke’s recent performance was lauded by the Sydney Morning Herald for her “fluid grace” and “thrilling force at climactic moments.” Adding to the star-studded lineup is American countertenor Christopher Lowrey, who will be making his OA debut as Didymus, a role he has performed to global acclaim. Joining him will be Helen Sherman, a Helpmann Award nominee, who will make her OA debut as Irene. Regular OA performers and audience favourites, Michael Petruccelli and David Greco, will play Septimius and… Read More

Coconut smoothie bar in Sydney

coconut smoothie drink pexels taryn elliott 5993600

A tropical revolution is brewing in the heart of Sydney. Coconature, the city’s first-ever coconut-based smoothie bar, is set to open its doors in Westfield Sydney, on February 2, 2024. This pioneering establishment marks a significant shift in Sydney’s beverage scene, introducing a unique concept centred around the versatile and nutritious coconut. Coconature responds to Sydney’s growing demand for healthier, natural alternatives with its range of coconut smoothies. Emphasising the natural potential of coconuts, these smoothies tantalise taste buds while offering health benefits. Coconature ensures transparency in its offerings, using natural sweeteners of the coconut, such as Coconut Water, instead of artificial sugars, appealing to those seeking flavorful yet wholesome dietary choices. A Menu Crafted with Care and Quality At the heart of Coconature’s offering is its signature product line, including the acclaimed Signature Coconut Smoothie, a blend of fresh coconut water, coconut flesh, frozen coconut cream, and ice. This smoothie epitomises the essence of Coconature – a commitment to simplicity, purity, and the natural goodness of coconuts. For those who enjoy a caffeine kick, the Coffee Coconut Smoothie, combining roasted coffee beans with coconut elements, is a unique and invigorating option. Catering to diverse dietary needs, Coconature proudly offers vegan and dairy-free alternatives. The Passionfruit Mango Coconut Smoothie is a testament to the bar’s creativity, blending the exotic flavours of passionfruit and mango with the creamy texture of coconut. The range also extends into innovative smoothie blends such as Biscoff Coconut Smoothie. Patrons can also personalise their drinks with an assortment of toppings, such… Read More

West Side Story on Sydney Harbour

Opera Australia West Side Story HOSH fireworks

Get ready for an electrifying, larger-than-life experience as Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour brings back the iconic musical, West Side Story, to its spectacular stage in 2024. This highly anticipated production will showcase the greatest score ever written and promises to be a musical masterpiece like no other. Opera Australia (OA) has recently announced the two talented Australian performers who will take on the lead roles of Tony and Maria in this limited 4-week season. Making her professional theatrical debut as Maria is the award-winning First Nations soprano, Nina Korbe. Joining her as Tony is the Canberra-born tenor, Billy Bourchier, fresh from his acclaimed performances in OA’s Miss Saigon. Jo Davies, Opera Australia’s Artistic Director, expressed her excitement about the casting, stating, “We are so excited to have these two fabulous Australian talents lead this production, audiences are going to be thrilled by their talent and energy on stage.” The full cast, which will be announced soon, promises to be a diverse range of extraordinary talents from both the opera and musical theatre worlds. The production of West Side Story on Sydney Harbour premiered in 2019 to outstanding acclaim and remains the most successful of all Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour productions. This year, audiences will once again be treated to nightly fireworks, a live orchestra, and a breathtaking performance on Australia’s largest outdoor stage, boasting sweeping city and harbor views. Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour has truly become a quintessential cultural experience in Sydney. Nina Korbe, a proud Koa, Kuku Yalanji, and Wakka Wakka… Read More

Valentine’s Day at NOMAD Sydney and Melbourne

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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

Sydney Spirits Festival makes debut

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Get ready to embark on an extraordinary journey of taste and excitement at the inaugural Sydney Spirits Festival! From May 10th to 12th, 2024, the Overseas Passenger Terminal in Sydney Cove will host the largest and most diverse gathering of its kind in Australia. With a remarkable array of 148 brands spanning whisk(e)y, gin, rum, vodka, tequila, and much more, this event is set to unleash your inner spirit and introduce you to a world of flavours. Indulge in Rare Finds and Exotic Tastes Prepare your taste buds for a tantalizing adventure as the festival brings together rare and award-winning spirits from around the globe. From German and Japanese gin to American peanut butter whisky, Greek vermouth, Brazilian cachaça, and Australian gold medal-winning negronis, there’s something to excite every palate. This is your chance to discover unique flavours and fall in love with new favorites that will leave a lasting impression. Meet the Stars of the Spirits World The Sydney Spirits Festival is not just about the drinks, but also about the incredible personalities behind them. Prepare to rub shoulders with renowned figures in the spirits industry who will be making special appearances throughout the event. Tasmanian Bill Lark, Australia’s “Godfather of Whisky,” will be offering samples and signing bottles at stand 7. Don’t miss the opportunity to meet Gee David from Buffalo Trace Distillery, an American bourbon expert pouring samples of their world-famous bourbon. And make sure to visit Mikey Enright of Hickson House, who will showcase his award-winning gin and whisky. Ester Spirits,… Read More