Category: FOOD & DRINK

New European restaurant in Melbourne, Elio’s Place

Updated: 13/05/2024

This July, the culinary landscape of Flinders Lane is set to be transformed. This as the dynamic sibling duo, Adam and Elisa Mariani, renowned for their success with CBD hotspots Greta and Maverick, unveil their latest masterpiece – Elio’s Place, an all-day European-inspired bistro nestled in the historic Flinders House. Named in loving memory of their father, ‘Elio’, whose passion for great food and meaningful conversations lives on in their hearts, Elio’s Place is poised to become a hub of Italian hospitality, inviting guests to experience warmth, charm, and culinary delights in equal measure. Culinary Delights Throughout the Day From the enticing breakfast offerings that beckon city dwellers to embrace a European flair in their morning rituals to the shared plates at lunch and dinner designed for indulgent gatherings, Elio’s Place promises a gastronomic journey like no other. For those on the move, made-to-order sandwiches offer a quick yet satisfying option, ensuring that every palate finds its perfect match. Aperitivo Hours and Delectable Drinks Every day from 3 pm to 5 pm, indulge in the traditional Italian ritual of aperitivo at Elio’s Place. Immerse yourself in a carefully curated wine list featuring both local gems and international treasures, alongside classic cocktails and soon-to-be signature mixes that elevate your experience to new heights. Culinary Mastery by Group Executive Chef Gareth Flood Heading the culinary brigade is the esteemed Group Executive Chef Gareth Flood, a veteran collaborator with the sibling duo for nearly seven years, bringing to life a menu inspired by the rich culinary traditions of… Read More

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

Tags: Elios, melbourne restaurant

Where to get pizza in Watson’s Bay Sydney

by THE F

Posted: 10/05/2024

Experience a slice of Italy right on the shores of Sydney with Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel’s latest culinary delight! This Autumn, we’re warming your hearts and plates with our new woodfired pizza menu, passionately crafted by Italian-born Pizzaiolo, Andrea Di Vaio. Indulge in authentic Italian-style pizzas adorned with imaginative toppings, all for under $30. Situated on the iconic harbour beach, our hotel is not just celebrated for its scenic views, clinching the 10th spot among the world’s finest rooftop bars (Mandoe Media study), but also for our luxurious bayside retreat with classic coastal interiors and a Hamptons-chic twist. Andrea’s latest creations, from the spicy kick of Sopressa Salami to the earthy tones of Fungai and hearty Double Smoked Ham pizzas, are hand-stretched, topped with the freshest seasonal ingredients, and fired to perfection in our very own pizza oven. For our health-conscious and diet-restricted guests, gluten-free and vegan options are thoughtfully available, along with indulgent add-ons like creamy burrata and delicately hand-filleted Olasagasti anchovies. Fancy a beachside picnic or a casual seaside gathering? All pizzas are available for takeaway from our kiosk daily, between 12-8pm. Dive into the luxurious world of waterfront dining and exquisite tastes at Watsons Bay. Your perfect Autumn treat awaits! ?? The menu: Margherita ($24) Tomato, buffalo mozzarella, basil, parmesan Sopressa Salami ($26) Fennel and garlic sopressa salami, mozzarella, chilli honey Smoked Chicken ($28) Smoked chicken, spinach, green olive, taleggio Fungai ($25) roasted mushrooms, pecorino, fior di latte, parmesan Zucchini & Prawn ($29) Prawn, passata, fior di latte, grilled zucchini, cherry tomatoes… Read More

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

Tags: sydney pizza, Watson's BAy pizza, watsons bay hotel

There’s a new pina colada you need to try

by James Banham

Updated: 10/05/2024

In the world of pre-mixed cocktails, Curatif has already established itself as a beacon of quality and innovation. However, their latest creation—the Piña Colada—promises to elevate the experience to unparalleled heights of luxury and pleasure. This isn’t merely a cocktail; it’s an invitation to discard the trappings of everyday life and surrender to an endless summer spirit that revitalises and enchants. The meticulously crafted Piña Colada is a symphony of flavors, meticulously designed to transport you directly to the powdery beaches of the Caribbean with just one sip. The essence of bold roasted coconut flakes harmoniously blends with lusciously indulgent coconut cream, all resting on a rich foundation of fresh, succulent pineapple. But what truly sets this cocktail apart is the unparalleled blend of rums—Appleton Estate Signature Rum and Ron Colón Salvadoreño Rum—a masterful combination lending a considered complexity and balance to the drink. This isn’t just a beverage; it’s an ambrosial concoction that captures the essence of tropical bliss as if crafted under a palm-fringed cabana by the azure sea. Crafted with passion and precision, Curatif’s Managing Director Matt Sanger shares, “Our latest cocktail has been a labour of love that we’ve loved labouring over.” The resurgence of coconut and the nostalgic allure of the Piña Colada have been reintroduced in a ready-to-drink format without compromising the cocktail’s intricate flavors and authentic recipe. This dedication to real ingredients—the freshest pineapples, the creamiest of coconuts, and a meticulous selection of rums—underscore Curatif’s commitment to bar-quality excellence in every can. The Piña Colada has not only… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, FOOD & DRINK

Tags: Curatif, Pina Colada

Da Orazio pasticceria unveils new stuff at Bondi Beach

by James Banham

Posted: 09/05/2024

In a delectable twist of fate, Orazio D’Elia has steered Alexandria’s beloved Mia Dolci pastry shop towards a fresh horizon. Now standing under his sole proprietorship and reborn as Da Orazio Pasticceria, this transformation marks the dawn of a new era for pastry enthusiasts in the region. As part of this thrilling metamorphosis, a six-week pop-up venture is set to grace the shores of Bondi Beach. Following the departure of his erstwhile partner, this Italian pastry haven harmoniously merges with D’Elia’s renowned Da Orazio Pizza + Porchetta establishment in Bondi, paving the way for an unmatched culinary fusion. Nestled beside Da Orazio Pizza + Porchetta within The Hub at Bondi Beach, the Da Orazio Pasticceria pop-up promises a gastronomic extravaganza from May 15 to June 30. Embracing this evolution with open arms, Orazio shares, “The next chapter of the pasticceria feels like home. The consolidation under the Da Orazio family brand resonates deeply with our vision. While we cherish our roots in Alexandria, the expansion to Bondi adds a thrilling new dimension to our culinary expedition.” The essence of Da Orazio Pasticceria’s revitalization lies in a harmonious blend of classic charm and contemporary finesse. Spearheading the culinary symphony are two adept pastry chefs: Antonio Giotta, bringing forth traditional artistry from Italy’s southern lands, and Andrea Manna, infusing a modern zest from Italy’s northern realms into the heart of Italian confectionery. Both locations offer a divine selection of barista-made Vittoria coffee, commencing daily from 8 am, alongside a tantalizing array of sweet and savory delights until… Read More

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

Tags: bondi beach, Da Orazio, Sydney bakery

Amber Lane Distillery does well at World Spirits Competition

by James Banham

Posted: 09/05/2024

In an impressive showcase of quality and craftsmanship, the Australian-based Amber Lane Distillery has once again swept up top honours at the highly regarded San Francisco World Spirits Competition. This distinguished event, known for its rigorous standards and esteemed panel of judges, has awarded Amber Lane with two remarkable medals— a Double Gold for its Pineau 350 whisky and a Gold Medal for the Apera 100 whisky. The accolade is particularly significant considering the scope of the competition. The San Francisco World Spirits Competition is celebrated as the largest of its kind globally, drawing in over 5500 entries from across 30 categories this year alone. Winning entries, such as those from Amber Lane, are recognized for their exceptional quality, standing out as near pinnacles of achievement within the spirits domain. These recent wins mark a continuation of excellence for Amber Lane, replicating the success of the previous year which saw the distillery clinch a Double Gold Medal for its Apera 87 and a Gold Medal for Silk Road. Maintaining a 100% success rate with four gold medals from their entries in the past two years, Amber Lane Distillery has solidified its reputation for producing award-winning whiskies. The co-owner of Amber Lane Distillery, Rod Berry, expressed immense pride and gratitude for the international recognition. Since their market launch in 2022, every release from the distillery has garnered a national or international gold medal, underscoring the sustained excellence and innovation that Amber Lane brings to the whisky-making table. Based in Australia, Amber Lane Distillery has quickly emerged… Read More

Category: FOOD & DRINK

Tags: Amber Lane, whiskey

Hickson House’s new limited edition gin series

by James Banham

Posted: 07/05/2024

Sydney’s Harbour Bridge stands as a majestic emblem of Australia, a beacon of architectural prowess, and a testament to the country’s vibrant history and culture. In preparation for the iconic structure’s centennial in 2032, Hickson House Distilling Co. introduces an extraordinary tribute with the launch of its HARBOUR BRIDGE GIN SERIES. This series, unravelling year by year, will unveil a new limited-edition gin that encapsulates the essence and legacy of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The connection between Hickson House and the Harbour Bridge extends deep into the annals of history. Nestled in the historic Metcalfe Bond Store in Sydney’s pulsating heart, Hickson House sits on a site integral to the bridge’s construction. In the 1920s and 30s, this building stored the steel and timber essential for erecting the Harbour Bridge, elements that underpin both the bridge and the distillery’s rich heritage. Remarkably, traces of these original materials still abound within the distillery, mingling with the craft of gin making under the bridge’s towering presence. The inaugural gin, BREAKING GROUND, commemorates the laying of the bridge’s foundation in 1923, a pivotal moment captured on each bottle of this distinguished gin. Crafted with precision, this gin blends the award-winning Hickson House Harbour Strength Gin with native botanicals like Lemon Aspen and Lilly Pilly, authentic to the bridge’s era of construction. At 42% ABV, BREAKING GROUND delivers a symphony of bold juniper, bright citrus, and delicate berry aromas, ideal for enhancing classic cocktails or the signature Harbour Bridge Gin & Tonic. In celebration of this launch, Hickson House… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, FOOD & DRINK

Tags: Hickson House gin

Korean food in Sydney? You only need Arisun

by James Banham

Posted: 01/05/2024

Nestled in the heart of Sydney’s vibrant Chinatown, Arisun stands as a beacon for those seeking authentic Korean cuisine fused with a dash of Japanese delicacies. Since its move to Chinatown in 2007, following its original establishment in Belmore in 1990, this family-owned restaurant has entrenched itself as a vital part of the city’s diverse culinary landscape. Arisun isn’t just a place to eat; it’s an invitation to immerse in a unique dining experience, where the energetic pulse of K-pop culture complements the rich flavours of Korea and Japan. View this post on Instagram A post shared by SYDNEY FOOD BLOGGER ?????? (@annabelleeatz) Upon entering Arisun, guests are greeted by an eclectic atmosphere marked by a giant neon sign, vivid displays of menu offerings, and an iconic noodle monument. The interior, featuring warm timber panelling, exposed brick walls, and spacious dining tables, can accommodate 200 guests, making it an ideal spot for gatherings. Arisun extends its hospitality outdoors as well, welcoming pets and providing a cozy environment reminiscent of home. Arisun’s menu is a testament to its commitment to quality and authenticity. Highlights include the must-try Korean Fried Chicken and Pork Belly Black Bean Noodle, priced at $19.90, catering to both halal dietary requirements and varied palates. The menu spans from Fish Cake & Udon Hot Pot to Flame Grilled Korean BBQ, with the Spicy Gochujang Boneless Chicken being a standout. Not forgetting vegetarians, a specialised menu is available upon request, ensuring everyone has a delightful culinary experience. The drink selection at Arisun is equally… Read More

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

Tags: Arisun, Korean food, Korean Sydney

Memphis hosts World Champion Barbecue cooking contest this May

by James Banham

Updated: 01/05/2024

The World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest, celebrated for sparking the vibrant spirit of Memphis in its annual display of culinary mastery, has unveiled an enthralling lineup of entertainment and educational sessions set to take Liberty Park by storm from May 15-18, 2024. Now in its 46th year, the contest promises an even richer experience, marked by nightly entertainment on the Cattlemen’s Main Stage featuring Barbecue Sauce Wrestling, performances by Marcy Playground, Ingram Hill, and DJ MicTee from K97. The revered contest, known for gathering the crème de la crème of barbecue enthusiasts, expands its offerings with the introduction of expert-led grilling demonstrations at The Home Depot Outdoor Kitchen. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to learn from barbecue luminaries such as Moe Cason and Chris Lilly, ensuring a blend of savory learning experiences with the fun of sampling. Adding to the allure, The McCormick Demo Stage and The Cooker Caravan with Heath Riles BBQ will offer culinary tips and behind-the-scenes access to competition teams, while The Kingsford Tour of Champions and BBQ Alley promise interactive tasting adventures. The VIPit Experience elevates the barbecue pilgrimage to luxury, allowing aficionados an exclusive peek into the world of competitive barbecue guided by industry giants. Memphis in May continues to champion the future of barbecue, with The Future of Q and partnership efforts highlighting the talents of junior pitmasters and aspiring chefs from the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Memphis. These initiatives underscore the event’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of barbecue greats while celebrating the rich… Read More

Category: FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, TRAVEL

Tags: Memphis, Memphis BBQ, World Champion Barbecue

New VIVA North Melbourne cabaret venue and bar

by James Banham

Updated: 01/05/2024

This April, the industrial precinct of North Melbourne will witness a spectacular transformation with the grand opening of VIVA, an innovative venue that harmonizes live performances with exquisite dining. By seamlessly blending a vibrant bar setting with captivating cabaret experiences, VIVA is poised to redefine entertainment in Australia, creating an immersive hub for underground artistry, culinary delights, and premium libations. Step into a realm where history intertwines with modern allure at VIVA. Infused with the opulence of the 1920s and accentuated by cutting-edge staging and technology, VIVA promises to be a stage for the nation’s most distinguished dance and cabaret luminaries. The venue is crafted to whisk guests away on a journey of delight, excitement, and artistic exploration. Featuring two exclusive in-house shows that anchor the night’s entertainment lineup, VIVA kicks off with Elegant, a captivating cabaret performance brimming with comedy, dance, charm, and theatrics. For those seeking a more provocative and daring experience, Exotic awaits as the late-night spectacle designed to captivate, enthrall, and perhaps even challenge your perceptions. Elegant, the early show, is helmed by the acclaimed arts and entertainment maestro, Jason Coleman. With an illustrious portfolio encompassing iconic events like the Sydney Olympics opening ceremony, hit musicals such as Hair and Hairspray, and the beloved TV series So You Think You Can Dance, guests at VIVA are primed for an extraordinary evening within an intimate setting. Director of VIVA, Karlee Kaminski, shared, “At VIVA, we aspire to merge the enchantment of live performances with exceptional dining, service, and beverages, establishing a new… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, BRISBANE, CITIES, COFFEE, FOOD & DRINK

Tags: Brisbane coffee, coffee, Toby's Estate, Toby's Estate coffee

Toby’s Estate Brisbane flagship cafe is open

by James Banham

Posted: 01/05/2024

Attention coffee aficionados in Brisbane! Get ready to embark on a journey of coffee enlightenment as Toby’s Estate introduces free monthly coffee tastings at their Brisbane flagship café. Dive into the world of Toby’s origins, coffee processes, and the latest fascinating coffee techniques in an engaging and informative setting. But wait, there’s more than just coffee awaiting you! Alongside the aromatic brews, indulge in a plethora of delectable cooked meals and sweet treats from the full kitchen, perfectly paired with your espressos and lattes for a complete sensory experience. So, Brisbane dwellers, why delay? We look forward to welcoming you soon! The Toby’s Estate Brisbane flagship café is conveniently located at 1/33 Longland St, Newstead QLD 4006, open daily from 6:30 am to 2 pm. Join us at the NEW Toby’s Brisbane flagship for this month’s complimentary tasting event! Engage with Queensland’s Toby’s experts, savor the latest Single Origin offerings, and elevate your home brewing skills to new heights. Event details: Experience the epitome of coffee excellence at Toby’s Estate Brisbane Flagship Café – where every cup tells a story, and every sip is a journey through exceptional taste and quality. Get a free tasting ticket: Register for your free ticket here.

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

Tags: Brisbane cafe, Toby's Estate

ARTS & CULTURE

Good news for the London Museum revamp

06/09/2024

By James Banham

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

Sydney Contemporary announces MA Art Prize winner as First Nations artist Alfred Lowe

05/09/2024

By James Banham

The eighth edition of Sydney Contemporary opens its doors today at Carriageworks, promising an exhilarating display of artistic prowess that spans the globe. In partnership with Principal Partner MA Financial Group, this year’s fair sets the stage for over 85 galleries and more than 400 artists from across Australia and the world, transforming the iconic venue into a vibrant hub of contemporary art from September 5th to 8th, 2024. A highlight of the launch is the announcement of the MA Art Prize winner, emerging First Nations artist Alfred Lowe. This prestigious $10,000 acquisitive award celebrates and supports the work of emerging and early-career artists in Australia. Hailing from the Arrernte community in the Central Desert, north of Alice Springs, Lowe now practices in Adelaide. His winning piece, “All dressed up I, 2024,” showcases his skill with clay and ceramics, using hand-built stoneware adorned with sgraffito and raffia to reflect themes of Country, informed by his deep connection to the central desert landscape. Sydney Contemporary has cemented itself as Australasia’s premier art fair since its inception in 2013, attracting over 25,000 visitors per edition and generating more than $121 million in art sales. It serves as a crucial meeting place for collectors and art enthusiasts, fueling the growth of the Australian art market. This year’s fair promises a dynamic lineup, including a colossal 20-meter-wide installation by artist Lisa Roet, an engaging Talk Contemporary program featuring Mona’s Kirsha Kaechele, and a vibrant performance by multidisciplinary artist HOSSEI. Fair Director Zoe Paulsen expressed her enthusiasm for this year’s… Read More

Sydney Dance Company brings ‘momenta’ dance to Melbourne

05/09/2024

By James Banham

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

Listen to Beethoven live in Sydney

02/09/2024

By James Banham

In a celebration of musical revolution and historical milestones, the Sydney Opera House Concert Hall will play host to a landmark event on 26 October 2024—an extraordinary concert commemorating the 200th anniversary of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. This monumental piece, renowned for its powerful ‘Ode to Joy’ choral finale, redefined the symphonic form by integrating human voices, and has since become a resounding anthem for equality, freedom, and unity across the globe. Presented for one inspirational concert only, “Ode to Joy – Beethoven & Smyth” promises an evening steeped in musical brilliance and historical significance. Under the baton of the inimitable Elizabeth Scott, the Sydney Philharmonia Choirs’ 400-strong Festival Chorus, alongside special guest soloists Bronwyn Douglass, Helen Sherman, Bradley Daley, and Michael Honeyman, will bring this masterpiece to life. Adding another layer of youthful exuberance to the performance, the Sydney Youth Orchestra will join forces in this magnificent collaboration. Not content with merely celebrating Beethoven’s legacy, the program also shines a spotlight on another trailblazing composer, Dame Ethel Smyth. Known for her fervent activism and defiance of societal norms, Smyth’s contributions to music and the suffragette movement remain inspiring. Her grand Mass in D, hailed as a masterpiece upon its premiere in 1893, will be performed, echoing the sentiments of George Bernard Shaw, who praised her work for dispelling the notion that women could not accomplish great feats in art. Smyth, a formidable figure in the male-dominated world of classical music, used her platform to champion equality. Her anthem, “The March of the Women,” composed during… Read More

Bridgerton candlelight concert comes to Sydney

02/09/2024

By James Banham

Sydney is about to be swept off its feet as Netflix, Shondaland, and Fever join forces to present the exclusive Bridgerton Candlelight Concert. This enchanting event is set to transform St Stephen’s Uniting Church into a Regency-era wonderland on October 24th, 2024, with performances at 6:30pm and 8:30pm. Imagine stepping into a world lit by thousands of flickering candles, where the air is filled with the familiar tunes of Bridgerton hits performed by a local string quartet. This multi-sensory musical experience promises to be a night to remember, featuring an eclectic setlist that includes Billie Eilish’s “Bad Guy,” Ariana Grande’s “thank u, next,” and “Give Me Everything” by Pitbull, Afrojack, Ne-Yo, and Nayer, among others. With Bridgerton’s three seasons captivating audiences globally, this Candlelight Concert is a chance for Sydney-siders to immerse themselves in the magic of the series in a truly unique setting. To secure your spot at this highly anticipated event, sign up for the waitlist on Fever’s app or website. Doing so grants you exclusive pre-sale access to tickets, up to 24 hours before they become available to the public. Fever’s Candlelight Concert series is renowned for democratizing access to classical music, offering a fresh twist that appeals to a broad audience. Each concert is a celebration of music, performed in iconic venues worldwide, and this Bridgerton special will be no different, with limited tickets available for this fashionable event of the season. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this dazzling evening. Tickets for the Candlelight: Best of Bridgerton on… Read More