Category: LIFESTYLE

Dog Festival is coming to Melbourne in October!

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Posted: 12/09/2024

Grab your leads and lace up your sneakers, because the Dog Lovers Festival is back, bigger and better than ever, to celebrate its 10th anniversary in Melbourne this October! This isn’t just your run-of-the-mill dog show – it’s a full-blown canine carnival, and this year it’s wagging its tail at its new home, the Melbourne Showgrounds. If you’re a dog lover, this is your ultimate two-day paw-ty invitation. Over the past decade, the Melbourne Dog Lovers Festival has blossomed into one of Australia’s top dog-dedicated events, offering a slice of heaven for anyone who believes their pooch is more than just a pet – they’re family. From its humble beginnings in the mid-2010s to surviving the ups and downs of the COVID era, the festival has continued to grow, educating and entertaining dog owners at every wag of the tail. This milestone event promises an unforgettable celebration of our furry friends, inviting Melburnians to enjoy an ultimate birthday bash like no other. Festival founder, Jason Humphris, is pawsitively thrilled to mark this decade-long journey with new festival attractions and reflect on all the amazing accomplishments. “Expanding to the Melbourne Showgrounds is the perfect next step,” says Humphris. “With an exciting line-up of doggie entertainment, educational zones, and talks from top Aussie pet experts, we can’t wait to share our special day with all dog lovers.” This year, the festival is rolling out the red carpet for some tail-wagging new features. Get ready to be dazzled at the Optimum™ DOGWALK, where Insta-Pooches strut their stuff alongside… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, MELBOURNE

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New restaurant in Bronte opens: Table Manners

Table Manners dining room Sydney

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Posted: 09/09/2024

Bronte’s culinary scene is set to get a refreshing splash of European flair with the opening of Table Manners on Macpherson Street this Wednesday. This neighbourhood restaurant and bar marks the first solo venture of renowned hospitality figure Alex Cameron, who brings with him a passion for European dining and a vision for a relaxed yet refined local haunt. At the helm of the kitchen is head chef Luke Churchill, whose impressive pedigree includes stints at Parlar and Oncore by Clare Smyth, promising an exciting menu that’s bound to delight. Alex Cameron, a Bronte local himself, couldn’t be more thrilled about unveiling Table Manners. “I am excited to be opening the doors to Table Manners; it has been such a labour of love. Welcoming guests and offering something new to my local community has been the driving force behind those late nights. Bringing my love of European dining to Bronte is the icing on the cake. We hope everyone loves what we put on the table,” he shared. The seafood-leaning menu at Table Manners takes its cue from the diverse cuisines of Europe, crafted for a laid-back yet exquisite dining experience. Diners can anticipate dishes like tuna belly toast; Hervey Bay scallops with nduja butter and macadamia; Moreton Bay bug club sandwich; Murray Cod with pickled carrots and sauce Jacqueline; crispy spaghetti ‘all’Assassina with chilli, tomato, and king prawns; and lemon polenta madeleines. Cameron’s collaboration with Churchill has been a dream in the making. “To work alongside Luke has always been on the agenda; we… Read More

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

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New restaurant, Sefa, opens in Byron Bay

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Posted: 09/09/2024

Byron Bay, brace yourself for a culinary treat as the much-loved Bondi gem, Sefa Kitchen, prepares to open its doors in your coastal paradise from August this year. With its reputation firmly rooted in the bustling streets of Sydney, this marks the third venture at Nourishing Habitat for restaurateurs Utku Ayhan and Nicolas Degryse. After the runaway successes of Commune Canteen and Gitana Spanish Wine Bar, Sefa Kitchen is set to add a delicious new layer to Byron Bay’s vibrant food scene. Sefa Kitchen, a Bondi institution since 2013, is celebrated for its rustic yet refined take on Middle Eastern cuisine, drawing inspiration from the rich and diverse flavours of the Levantine and North African regions. This is a cuisine that has transcended borders for over 400 years, blending the ancient cooking traditions of culturally rich areas. With a focus on legumes, dairy, grains, spices, and seasonal produce, Sefa Kitchen brings this culinary heritage to life, offering a dining experience that is both exotic and familiar. At the heart of Sefa Kitchen Byron Bay is its wood-fire oven and open-flame grill, where dishes are infused with unique, smoky flavours that only this style of cooking can impart. The menu is designed around generous share platters, inviting diners to wrap the delicious offerings in bread and enjoy them with their hands. While plates and cutlery are available, owners Utku and Nico encourage guests to embrace the mess and dive in with their hands, adding a fun, interactive element to the dining experience. Diners can look forward… Read More

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

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Where you can watch AFL Grand Final in Melbourne

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Updated: 09/09/2024

As the heart of Aussie Rules beats loud and proud, Melbourne transforms into a vibrant cauldron of energy and excitement with the AFL Grand Final weekend. It’s that electrifying time of year when die-hard fans and casual observers alike come together to celebrate the pinnacle of Australian football. Whether you’re a passionate supporter of the teams battling for glory or just in it for the thrill of the spectacle, there’s no shortage of spots around Melbourne to catch every high-flying mark and goal. From boisterous pubs where the roar of the crowd echoes with each play to intimate bars offering a more relaxed vibe, and even sprawling venues boasting giant screens for that stadium-like feel, Melbourne has got you covered. So grab your mates, don your team’s colours, and dive into the local scene to experience the AFL Grand Final in true Melbourne style. Newmarket Hotel – Bottomless package and after party34 Inkerman St, St Kilda  Prahran Hotel – 3 hour footy package82 High Street, Windsor Garden State Hotel – Beverage package and after party101 Flinders Lane, Melbourne Terminus Hotel Abbotsford – Annual Grand Final Day Block Party in Flockhart Street605 Victoria St, Abbotsford Hopscotch – Beverage and snacks package4 Riverside Quay, Southbank Hotel Esplanade ‘The Espy’ – Gershwin Room – Bottomless drinks & roaming snacks11 The Esplanade, St Kilda Hotel Esplanade ‘The Espy’ – Louey’s – Italian feast and beverage package11 The Esplanade, St Kilda Village Belle Hotel – Siren to Siren package and after party202 Barkly Street, St Kilda Imperial Bourke Street –… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, MELBOURNE

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Tzatziki in a cocktail? Give it a go at Douglas Bar

Douglas Club

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Posted: 09/09/2024

In the ever-evolving world of cocktails, the classic martini is experiencing a remarkable resurgence, reclaiming its place in the limelight on bar menus across the globe. Yet, this isn’t just your grandfather’s martini making a comeback; it’s the martini with a twist—literally. Bars are pushing the envelope, infusing this timeless favourite with bold, unexpected flavours that challenge and delight the palate. At the forefront of this trend is The Douglas Club, a moody, sophisticated hideaway nestled in the heart of the CBD. Known for its daring approach to cocktail crafting, The Douglas Club has given birth to the Tzatzikitini—a Mediterranean-inspired marvel that redefines what it means to sip a savoury cocktail. This daring concoction begins with a base of cucumber-infused gin, providing a crisp and refreshing backbone. Greek yogurt clarification adds an unexpected creaminess, while zesty lemon injects a vibrant brightness. The pièce de résistance? Dill-infused vermouth, which delivers a herbal kick, evoking the essence of a Mediterranean garden. The result is a uniquely unforgettable sip that promises to intrigue even the most adventurous drinkers. As the martini undergoes this bold transformation, the trend of savory cocktails influenced by food is gaining traction. No longer satisfied with sweet and fruity, cocktail enthusiasts are seeking out drinks that challenge their taste buds with savory, umami-rich profiles. These innovative creations often draw inspiration from culinary techniques and ingredients, blurring the lines between food and drink. The Tzatzikitini is just one example of how bartenders are embracing this movement, crafting beverages that are as much about the experience… Read More

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

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A new Australian shiraz by Peter Lehmann

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Posted: 07/09/2024

If you’re someone who believes rules are meant to be broken and nothing pairs better with a Friday night than a bold glass of Shiraz, then it’s time to meet your new best mate: BAROSSAN X. Crafted by the legendary Peter Lehmann, these wines don’t just sit quietly on the shelf—they dare you to redefine everything you thought you knew about enjoying a glass of red. Let’s be honest, Australian winemaking has always had a bit of a rebellious streak, and BAROSSAN X is here to push those boundaries even further. This isn’t your grandma’s Shiraz. It’s vibrant, fresh, and has more personality than your mate who thinks he can surf. Each bottle is a testament to the creativity of winemaker Lauren Hutton, who’s taken the classic Barossa Valley Shiraz and given it a cheeky twist, blending tradition with innovation like a true Aussie master. But before you start thinking you’ll need to dust off your formalwear just to pop a cork, let’s set things straight. BAROSSAN X is for those who like their wine with a side of adventure. Want to sip it from your favourite mug while devouring a takeaway pizza? Go for it. Prefer a more sophisticated setup with crystal glassware and hard cheese? Absolutely. This Shiraz isn’t about following the usual pairing rules—it’s about making your own. And for those of you ready to dive into this bold new world of wine, the BAROSSAN X Twisted Shiraz is waiting for you at Dan Murphy’s. It’s got everything you love in a… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, FOOD & DRINK

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Good news for the London Museum revamp

Musem London

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Posted: 06/09/2024

In a bold move to enrich London’s cultural landscape, the City of London Corporation and the Mayor of London have pledged an additional £50 million towards the creation of the new London Museum. So if history and the arts are your thing, then get excited! Nestled within the historic Smithfield markets, this ambitious project, designed by Stanton Williams and Asif Khan, is set to become one of Europe’s most significant cultural infrastructure projects, preserving the iconic market buildings for future generations. With a generous contribution of £25 million each from the City of London Corporation and the Mayor, the funding boosts the museum’s overall project budget to £437 million. Accompanying this, the museum is on a mission to raise an additional £30 million, with nearly half already secured through private donations and philanthropic efforts. The transformation of the Victorian General Market and Poultry Market into world-class spaces for art and learning is well underway. Slated to open in 2026, the General Market will showcase the museum’s permanent galleries, bringing to life more of its renowned collection than ever before. By 2028, the Poultry Market will house a cutting-edge learning centre, temporary exhibition spaces, and a publicly accessible collections store, inviting visitors to explore behind the scenes of the museum’s vast collection. Sharon Ament, Director of the London Museum, expressed her excitement about the project: “Thousands of Londoners are helping to shape this fantastic new museum which will not only explore our city’s rich history but the people and places that make it such a vibrant… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, LONDON

Sydney Dance Company brings ‘momenta’ dance to Melbourne

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Posted: 05/09/2024

Sydney Dance Company is set to captivate Melbourne audiences with the debut of Artistic Director Rafael Bonachela’s latest creation, ‘momenta’, at the Arts Centre Melbourne from 8-12 October. This full-length dance work, which has already garnered critical acclaim in Sydney, is a celebration of the profound beauty and fragility of shared humanity. Through the dynamic and evocative language of contemporary dance, ‘momenta’ delves into the ephemeral nature of human connections and encounters. Bonachela’s choreography is renowned for its intricate rhythmic patterns and inventive partnering, and ‘momenta’ is no exception. The 17 dancers of Sydney Dance Company transcend their physical boundaries, showcasing a breathtaking blend of grace, power, and vulnerability. Each movement is designed to resonate through space, creating a visceral experience for audiences as they are drawn into a world where raw emotion seamlessly blends with exquisite technique. The performance is elevated by the evocative electronic soundscapes of composer Nick Wales, who weaves in elements from P?teris Vasks, adding layers of depth to the narrative. Elizabeth Gadsby’s immersive set design and Damien Cooper’s striking lighting further enhance the atmosphere, capturing the essence of fleeting moments suspended between past and future. These elements converge to create a space where individual trajectories collide and intertwine, echoing the transient nature of life itself. Rafael Bonachela expressed his excitement about bringing ‘momenta’ to Melbourne, stating, “We’re thrilled to present momenta in Melbourne for the first time. momenta is a testament to the ephemeral yet profound connections that weave through all of our lives. From the most tender exchanges to… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, DANCE, MELBOURNE

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Tombo Den Japanese opens in Melbourne this September

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Posted: 03/09/2024

Melbourne’s dining scene is about to get a vibrant new addition with the opening of Tombo Den, the latest venture by renowned restaurateur Chris Lucas. Set to open on Saturday, September 7th, at 100 Chapel Street, Windsor, Tombo Den promises to transport diners straight to the bustling streets of Tokyo with its reinterpretation of the city’s late-night dining culture, infused with a touch of Melbourne flair. Tombo Den captures the essence of Tokyo’s izakayas—those lively, labyrinth-like pubs known for their relaxed atmosphere and adventurous eats. Chris Lucas, whose passion for Japanese cuisine and culture was sparked during his time living in Tokyo in the 90s, is excited to bring this experience to Windsor. “I can’t wait to bring a slice of this to the area,” Lucas shares, reminiscing about his days savoring street food in downtown Tokyo. Leading the culinary charge is celebrated chef Dan Chan, whose impressive resume includes stints at the Michelin-starred Yardbird in Hong Kong and Melbourne’s own Supernormal. Alongside Lucas, Chan has crafted a menu that pays homage to Tokyo’s dining culture while incorporating Melbourne’s sensibilities. The sushi offerings are a standout, with Kisumé Sushi Masters Toaki Kyo and Carlos Lopez bringing their expertise to a menu that honors sushi’s beginnings as a street food staple. Diners can enjoy a rotating selection of sashimi and nigiri, including deluxe options like scallop and wagyu, served from a central counter. The à la carte menu is a testament to the creativity and skill behind Tombo Den. Small Plates feature tempting bites like Sapporo… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, ASIAN FOOD, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, MELBOURNE

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Mary’s opens on Sydney’s North Shore

Marys chicken burger

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Posted: 03/09/2024

Sydney’s North Shore has just become a little tastier with the opening of Mary’s VX at Victoria Cross, marking the renowned burger joint’s first foray into this part of the city. Nestled above the new Sydney Metro Victoria Cross Station, this new space invites both North Sydney workers and locals to dive into their classic and vegan menus, topped off with a sweet collaboration with Grumpy Donut. To wash it all down, P&V Wine + Liquor Merchant is offering a splendid selection of natural wines and craft beers. Victoria Cross itself is transforming the heart of North Sydney CBD, welcoming its first wave of retailers in sync with the Sydney Metro City launch. Mary’s VX stands out with its fresh take on the dining experience, featuring an open kitchen concept that brings the vibrant atmosphere of the kitchen right to the diners. Inspired by the bustling ramen joints of Tokyo, the lively tapas bars of Barcelona, and the friendly diners of the American Midwest, the kitchen counter becomes the focal point of Mary’s VX, fostering a sense of community and connection among guests. The unique design of the space, with 10 exclusive kitchen counter seats for walk-ins, allows guests to catch all the burger-flipping action up close. Inside, booths and tables offer direct views of the kitchen, while outside, 20 seats are available under heated umbrellas, making it a cozy spot come rain or shine. Co-founders Jake Smyth and Kenny Graham are particularly thrilled about the new venture. “We want our guests to see and… Read More

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

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