Category: FOOD & DRINK

How to visit Asia with actually “visiting Asia”

Gyuniku Japanese

Recent reports show Japanese (22.4 million searches) and Indian (21.3 million searches) are the most sought-after cuisines, with Chinese, Thai, and Vietnamese also making their mark in the Top 10 (BizCover, 2024). But, there’s no real reason to go there just for the purposes of a good feed – unless you really want to. Welcome, some of Sydney’s finest cuisine options for your favourite Asian destinations! Japan For a taste of Japan, you absolutely cannot skip Gaku Ramen in Darlinghurst. This place is essential when you crave a bowl so comforting, it makes your bed look bad. Their broth is simmered for hours, providing a depth of flavour that even your Nana would approve of, assuming she could stop critiquing the instant noodles you’ve been living off. Address: 34/1 Dixon Street, Sydney NSW 2000 Trading Hours: Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 10pm Menu: https://www.gyuniku.com.au/menu Vietnam Next, make a beeline for An Restaurant in Bankstown. Their pho is an aromatic masterpiece that’ll have you questioning why soup isn’t the center of every meal. If you’re still standing after their enormous serving, try their iced coffee; it’s strong enough to fuel a late-night Netflix binge or two. Address: Shop 1, 332 Kent Street, Sydney NSW 2000  Trading Hours: 5pm-2am (Tuesday-Sunday)  Menu: https://vinabar.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Vinabar-Menu-Q3-2024.pdf China In the bustling heart of Chinatown, Golden Century needs no introduction. It’s an institution, and their seafood is so fresh, you’d think they had an ocean out back. The salt and pepper crab is a must-try, practically convincing locals to believe in love-at-first-bite if they never did before. Korea Wind your way over to… Read More

3 top options to eat out in Sydney this November-December

F25 Chiswick Locals Menu Lifestyle 2Women wine cheers Chiswick Sydney

As the festive season descends upon Sydney, it’s time to embrace the culinary experiences that will make your holiday celebrations unforgettable. With a plethora of dining options that would make even Santa envious, you better start planning your indulgences now (and perhaps loosen your belt a notch for good measure). First on the list is the Shell House Chef’s Table Experience—a dining adventure that’s as exclusive as it sounds. With just one sitting per night for two lucky diners, at a mere $165 per person, you’ll be nestled at the kitchen pass, ensconced in the culinary theatrics of an open kitchen. As you’re whisked away on a five-course journey through the finest Australian produce, don’t forget about the paired beverage option, because what’s a meal without perfectly matched drinks? And for that one person who seems to have everything (we all know one), a Chef’s Table experience gift card might just do the trick. Book Shell House here. Aria has us spoiled for choice with their refreshed set menus tailored for those who believe that less is more (and more often)! You can now sample a two-course lunch or pre-theatre meal at $120, or indulge in their sumptuous three, five, or eight-course tasting menus, for those inclined to go all out. With dining hours extended for a leisurely lunch and elegant dinners, it’s basically an open invitation to add some sparkle to your festive gatherings while feeling just a tad indulgent. Further info, menus and bookings for Aria are here And don’t even get me… Read More

Malvern welcomes its new favourite local, The Gardiner Hotel

The Gardiner Hotel Render 2

Malvern, get ready to raise a glass! The suburb’s newest pub, The Gardiner Hotel, is swinging open its doors on Friday, 29th November, and it’s set to be more than just your average watering hole. With its multi-level design, sun-drenched rooftop terrace, and a menu that’ll have foodies swooning, The Gardiner is poised to become the heart and soul of the neighbourhood. A Dash of History with a Modern Twist Sitting proudly at the corner of Glenferrie and Wattletree Roads, The Gardiner Hotel occupies the iconic old National Bank building, a local landmark since 1915. The venue honours Malvern’s rich history with its name—a nod to John Gardiner, the namesake of Gardiner’s Creek and the former Gardiner’s Creek Road, now known as Toorak Road. Blending heritage charm with contemporary style, the build is designed to complement the neighbourhood while offering a warm, welcoming spot for locals to gather. “We cannot wait to finally swing the doors open to this beautiful pub!” said Venue Manager Scott Matthews. “We’ve made sure there’s something for everyone because we want our entire community to love it as much as we do and gather at The Gardiner for many years to come.” Your New Favourite Hangout The Gardiner is more than just a pub—it’s a multi-level social hub designed to suit all occasions. Whether you’re popping in for a casual drink, a family dinner, or hosting a celebration, this place has got you covered. The ground floor features a vibrant public bar and a dining space, designed with warm timber… Read More

Discover the Refreshing Benefits of Mint Tea

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As the festive ‘silly season’ approaches, it’s time to introduce you to a party essential that promises to be both refreshing and calming—96° Mint Tea. Known for its delightful spearmint flavour and elegant pyramid tea bags, this tea is set to be a hit at any gathering. But beyond its delicious taste, mint tea offers a range of health benefits that make it a must-have in your pantry. Energy Boost and Concentration Enhancer If the hustle and bustle of the festive season leave you feeling drained, mint tea can be your secret weapon. The menthol present in spearmint tea has invigorating properties that can help improve energy levels and enhance concentration. Imagine sipping on a comforting cup of mint tea while its subtle aroma revitalises your senses and helps you stay alert through long holiday days and nights. Digestive Aid One of the standout benefits of mint tea is its ability to aid digestion. Whether you’ve indulged a tad too much during a holiday feast or are just looking for something to soothe your stomach, mint tea can help. Its natural compounds relax the muscles of the digestive tract, reducing symptoms of bloating and discomfort, making it an ideal post-meal companion. Sinus and Allergy Relief The ‘silly season’ can often bring with it the not-so-silly issue of sinus congestion and seasonal allergies. Mint tea, with its menthol content, provides a welcome relief. The cooling sensation it imparts can help clear clogged sinuses and alleviate discomfort from seasonal allergies, allowing you to breathe easier and enjoy… Read More

Culinary Magic Awaits at Arkhé & Friends Series Finale

arkhe restaurant dining room

Adelaide’s renowned arkhé restaurant is wrapping up its year-long collaboration series, arkhé & friends, with three spectacular events featuring acclaimed chefs from around the globe. Since March 2024, this initiative has brought a rotating roster of culinary talent to partner with arkhé’s executive chef and co-owner, Jake Kellie, for exclusive takeover nights. The grand finale promises to be an exceptional culinary adventure. Vaughan Mabee – January 16, 2025 First up is Vaughan Mabee, the celebrated executive chef from New Zealand’s Amisfield, who will be gracing arkhé’s kitchen on January 16. Mabee is renowned for his innovative approach and commitment to showcasing the best of New Zealand produce through his 22-course gastronomic experience at Amisfield. His accolades include Amisfield being awarded Restaurant of the Year multiple times by the Cuisine Good Food Awards. Mabee’s reputation as a ‘mad genius’ precedes him, and his event promises to deliver an unforgettable culinary spectacle. Tickets are $450 per person and include eight courses, a Laphroaig cocktail on arrival, and wine pairing. Bo & Dylan – February 6, 2025 Next, the duo from Bangkok, Bo & Dylan, will bring their Thai culinary magic to arkhé on February 6. Known for their restaurant Bo.Lan, which champions local farming and traditional culinary methods, Bo and Dylan James have crafted a menu that fuses classic Thai flavors with their signature flair. Their Adelaide event will feature a fire-kissed menu exclusive to arkhé, with five courses, a Laphroaig cocktail on arrival, and wine pairing. Tickets are priced at $300 per person. Sean Gray –… Read More

There’s a new restaurant to try in Sydney: Wine Bar at the International

Men Chefs The International team shots The Wine Bar 1

The Point* Group, known for their standout Sydney venues like Shell House, has unveiled a new gem in the city’s CBD, The International. Nestled above Martin Place, this multi-dimensional destination is a trifecta of experiences with The Wine Bar, The Grill, and The Panorama Bar. Today, we’re taking a closer look at The Wine Bar, a place that redefines the wine bar concept with a global flair and a welcoming vibe. Upon entering The Wine Bar, guests are greeted by a vibrant, piazza-style courtyard restaurant, seating 60. Dominated by Charles Perry’s eye-catching yellow steel ‘S’ sculpture, this area offers its own bar, making it the perfect spot for all-day dining or a relaxing drink after work. The courtyard’s lively atmosphere invites patrons to unwind while soaking up the city’s energy. Move inside, and you’ll find the heart of The Wine Bar – an intimate, 40-seat space dedicated to the appreciation of wine. Here, banks of wine fridges glisten with an impressive selection, and a terrace overlooks the dynamic streets of Martin Place. An extensive by-the-glass wine list and an open kitchen add layers of intrigue to this central hub, encouraging exploration and discovery. For those seeking something a bit more refined, The Seidler Room provides the ideal setting. This 60-seat circular dining room, with its plush carpets, cozy banquettes, and mid-century timber touches, is a haven for special occasions. It’s poised to host long lunches, events, and the much-anticipated wine parties, offering a touch of elegance to any gathering. Behind the culinary magic is executive… Read More

Gyuniku is Sydney’s new All-You-Can-Eat Japanese hotspot

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Say hello to Gyuniku, the ultimate Japanese buffet in Haymarket that’s redefining the all-you-can-eat scene. Think premium wagyu, fresh sushi, sizzling DIY BBQ, and a dessert bar that will make your inner child squeal with delight. Step inside Gyuniku, where tradition meets trendy. With 30 BBQ stations and seating for 110 hungry diners, the space is a seamless blend of traditional yakiniku charm and modern Japanese convenience. Whether you’re rolling in with a big group or keeping it cosy, there’s room for everyone to grill, chill, and indulge. The highlight? Unlimited Wagyu MB9+, marbled to perfection and ready to sizzle at your table. Prefer a mix? The menu also features melt-in-your-mouth Wagyu MB7–9 cuts, short ribs, marinated chicken, and fresh seafood. But it’s not just about the BBQ. Sushi lovers, rejoice! The self-service sushi bar is constantly replenished with expertly rolled sushi, sashimi, and nigiri. Add to that a variety of hot and fried favourites, wakame salad, and sauces galore to customise every bite. And let’s not forget dessert. Gyuniku’s DIY frozen yoghurt station is a must-visit. Load up your fro-yo with sprinkles, tapioca pearls, or M&M’s and end your feast on a sweet (and highly Instagrammable) note. This isn’t just dinner; it’s an experience. Grill your own meat, sip a cold Asahi, and laugh over endless plates of sushi with your mates. The self-paced, interactive setup makes it ideal for catching up with friends or breaking the ice on a first date. Gyuniku offers a 90-minute all-you-can-eat experience starting at just $45.90 for the… Read More

Sydney’s new Panorama Bar at The International

Food International Panorama 196R

In November 2024, The Point* Group, the masterminds behind some of Sydney’s most beloved venues, unveiled The International, a landmark multi-dimensional destination in the bustling heart of Sydney’s CBD at Martin Place. Perched high above the city’s vibrant social and civic core, The International offers guests a trio of distinct venues: The Wine Bar, The Grill, and The Panorama Bar, each promising a unique and captivating experience. At the pinnacle of The International, The Panorama Bar offers a breathtaking vista of Sydney’s iconic skyline. Nestled atop Martin Place, this rooftop gem provides an unparalleled perspective, where the modernity of the city meets the charm of heritage architecture, with the towering MLC Building standing sentinel. The Panorama Bar is the epitome of Sydney’s high-end ‘sip and snack’ culture, making it the perfect destination for sunlit lunches, golden hour gatherings, and spirited nighttime escapades. Culinary director Joel Bickford and executive chef Danny Corbett have curated a menu that celebrates the best of small plates and light snacks. The culinary offerings are a delightful play on taste and presentation, featuring a cold bar and a hot bank of Hibachi grills that serve up a variety of snacks. Whether it’s delicacies on a stick, nestled in a bun, presented on toast, or served chilled on ice, the menu is a culinary adventure. Guests can indulge in an ever-changing array of yakitori-style meat, fish, and vegetables, freshly shucked oysters, raw fish preparations like tuna and kingfish, crispy fried prawn toast, and the coal-kissed squid. Not to be missed are the… Read More

Three Blue Ducks, North Rivers at Brunswick Heads and a whole lotta good food

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Three Blue Ducks and Hotel Brunswick are thrilled to announce their exciting new collaboration, unveiling ‘The Ducks at Hotel Brunswick’ this December. This partnership brings together the laid-back charm of an Australian pub with the innovative culinary style of Three Blue Ducks, promising to deliver a unique dining experience on the banks of the Brunswick River. Known for their commitment to sustainability and ethically sourced ingredients, Three Blue Ducks chefs Darren Robertson and Andy Allen have teamed up with Hotel Brunswick’s Head Chef, Loki Lynch, and Group General Manager of Food, Ben Turner. Together, they’ve crafted a menu that showcases local produce from the Northern Rivers region, adding their distinctive twist to beloved pub classics. Diners can expect the likes of schnitzels, chicken ‘parmies’, fish and chips, burgers, and pizzas, alongside vibrant citrus-infused plates and spicy dishes such as ceviche and tacos. Seafood takes centre stage as a nod to Brunswick’s fishing and surf-side community, with offerings designed to pair perfectly with a refreshing beer in the pub’s expansive beer garden. “We’re really excited about this one,” Robertson shared. “We’ve put together dishes that we love to eat, in a quintessential Aussie pub (that we’ve been going to for years) across from the Brunswick River and the ocean. Think Australian bay lobster rolls; pickled octopus; prawn toast with nam jim; and even fried apple pie for something sweet. There’s also a brand new pizza oven going in, so we’re going to be serving epic pizzas, flatbreads and of course, there’ll be a couple of cheeky… Read More