Category: FOOD & DRINK

A place to eat in Coogee: Marra Bar & Grill

Posted: 22/04/2024

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

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

Tags: coogee, Coogee Bay Hotel, sydney

Go to Adrian Richardson’s new Italian joint, Pasta Bambino

by James Banham

Posted: 22/04/2024

Affordable Gourmet Pasta and Classic Cocktails at Bouvier Bar In a heartwarming homage to his Italian roots and an answer to the current economic squeeze, celebrated chef Adrian Richardson unveils ‘Pasta Bambino’, a winter pop-up nestled within the cozy confines of Bouvier Bar, on Melbourne’s iconic Lygon Street. Offering an escape into the warmth of Italian cuisine, this pop-up is poised to serve up an array of classic Italian pasta dishes, alongside handcrafted cocktails and wine, all priced to please. Since its opening in 2017, Bouvier Bar has become a staple in Brunswick East, known for its classic cocktails and unmatched hospitality. Adrian Richardson, the culinary force behind La Luna Bistro and now Pasta Bambino, aims to stir the pot in the current dining scene with affordable, yet gourmet, pasta offerings reflective of his Italian heritage. Drawing from childhood memories of making pasta from scratch with his Italian grandparents, Adrian’s approach with Pasta Bambino is simple yet profound. “Some of my fondest food memories are helping my Italian grandparents in the kitchen,” Richardson recounts, tying his culinary endeavors back to his foundational experiences with food. The pop-up restaurant’s menu sings a ballad of traditional Italian comfort food, with the promise of changing offerings to keep the palette intrigued. Patrons can look forward to starting their meals with tasty smaller plates like crumbed and fried mozzarella and an antipasto board brimming with Mediterranean delights. Main dishes feature a variety of handmade and locally sourced gourmet pasta such as casarecce bolognese and fresh ricotta gnocchi, not to… Read More

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

Tags: best italian restaurants, Melbourne Italian restaurants, Pasta Bambino

ST. ALi coffee in Melbourne has a new shop

by James Banham

Updated: 20/04/2024

ST. ALi, the revered Melbourne coffee institution, is thrilled to announce the opening of its latest venture on Bali’s shores. This April, coffee aficionados and culinary enthusiasts will be welcomed at the brand new ST. ALi cafe located on the ground floor of the avant-garde FURTHER HOTEL in the lively and promising district of Pererenan. This expansion marks a significant milestone, promising to infuse Bali’s blossoming coffee scene with ST. ALi’s celebrated blend of premium coffee and gastronomic flair. “Expanding into Bali presents an exhilarating opportunity for us to introduce the ST. ALi philosophy to a wider audience. Pererenan’s evolving culinary landscape and its rich, immersive culture provide the ideal setting for our brand to flourish,” proclaimed Lachlan Ward, CEO of ST. ALi. FURTHER HOTEL has quickly made its mark since its establishment in 2023, earning accolades for its innovative hotel concept that seamlessly integrates with the community ethos of Bali’s southwest coastline. This collaboration between ST. ALi and FURTHER HOTEL is set to enrich the guest experience significantly, marrying the hotel’s novel approach with ST. ALi’s expertise in coffee and cuisine. “Partnering with ST. ALi to bring the essence of Melbourne’s coffee culture to Pererenan is a fulfillment of a long-held aspiration,” expressed Simon Digby, Co-Founder of FURTHER HOTEL. “Facing some of Bali’s most sought-after surf spots, we anticipate ST. ALi will become a morning hub for surfers eager for their coffee fix.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by ST ALi INDONESIA (@stali.id) In line with this partnership, ST. ALi Bali,… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, MELBOURNE

Tags: coffee, melbourne cafes, melbourne coffee, St Ali

Discover the home of Australian whisky at Starward’s new distillery and bar precinct

by Danielle Kirk

Updated: 17/04/2024

After winning 24 Double Gold medals in 2 years, Starward goes even bigger with its recent unveiling of a brand-new distillery tour and bar experience.

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, MELBOURNE

Tags: Australian whiskey, australian whisky, melbourne, port melbourne, Starward, Starward whiskey, starward whisky

Adelaide Hills wineries worth a visit

by James Banham

Updated: 16/06/2024

Renowned for its cool climate, this picturesque locale offers an ideal terroir for producing some of the most exquisite wines known to connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts alike.

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

Tags: Adelaide, Adelaide wineries, Best wineries Adelaide

A unique fusion of whiskey and art in Sydney

by James Banham

Updated: 16/05/2024

The ‘Glenfiddich x Jordan Gogos Pop-Up Bar’, is an initiative set to enchant Sydneysiders from 17th April to 8th May, 2024.

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

Tags: art sydney, Glenfiddich Sydney, Sydney blog, whiskey

Ruben’s Deli does good food in Melbourne’s Armadale

by James Banham

Updated: 22/05/2024

What really sets this Melbourne gem apart isn’t just its delectable sandwiches; it’s the incredible catering service spearheaded by owner Amanda Ruben, that’s capturing the hearts of food lovers across the city.

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

Tags: Amradale Melbourne, Armadale food, Cafes in Armadale, Deli High Street, High Street Armadale, Ruben's Deli Armadale, Rubens

Sweet Greek Delights in Melbourne

by James Banham

Updated: 21/05/2024

Sweet Greek is offering the same beloved seasonal dishes with a fresh new look that promises to elevate your dining experience to new heights.

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

Tags: Desserts Melbourne, Sweet Greek, Sweet Greek Melbourne

Bang Bang Asian restaurant opening in Hampton

by James Banham

Posted: 10/04/2024

Excitement fills the air as Bang Bang, the revered Pan Asian street food sanctuary, prepares to unveil its second location in Hampton on Wednesday, 17th April. This new addition promises to bring the vibrant flavours and innovative culinary creations that define Bang Bang to a fresh neighbourhood, inviting locals and diners citywide to embark on a tantalizing journey through the best of Asian street food in Melbourne. A Culinary Adventure Awaits After the overwhelming success of its Mordialloc restaurant, Bang Bang identified the burgeoning demand for a new location, with Hampton emerging as the ideal destination to expand its culinary empire. Drawing inspiration from Asia’s bustling street food culture and the team’s global travels, Bang Bang’s bold seasonal menu is a testament to unrivalled Pan Asian cuisine in Melbourne. The Menu: A Symphony of Flavours Dive into a world of culinary delights with Bang Bang’s diverse menu offerings, tailored to cater to every palate and occasion. From Bites to Desserts, each dish showcases a fusion of authentic produce and complex flavour profiles that transport diners to the vibrant streets of Southeast Asia, Japan, Korea, and India. Feast Your Senses For the ultimate dining experience, Bang Bang offers two exceptional Feed Me menus curated by the chefs, allowing guests to immerse themselves in a culinary journey filled with bold flavours and delectable surprises. Crafted Cocktails and Happy Hours Complementing the vibrant flavours of the menu are Bang Bang’s innovative cocktails, featuring tantalizing creations like Midnight Rose and Chilli Chilli Bang Bang. With Bang Bang Hour offering… Read More

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

Tags: Bang Bang Asian Hampton, Hampton Melbourne, Hampton restaurants

Mexican in Sydney at Sydney’s Lansdowne Hotel

by James Banham

Updated: 12/04/2024

Sydney’s culinary scene is about to get hotter with The Happy Mexican making its much-anticipated debut at the iconic Lansdowne Hotel. Known for bringing the authentic taste of Mexico to Melbourne, The Happy Mexican is ready to sprinkle some of that magic in Sydney. And what better way to start than with a bang? In an unprecedented move, they’re giving away 500 free tacos and tequila shots in April to celebrate their grand opening. Yes, you heard it right – a free taco and tequila fiesta, and everyone’s invited! View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Lansdowne Hotel (@thelansdowne) Since opening its doors in the 1920s, The Lansdowne has become a staple of Sydney nightlife, cherished for its historic charm and rock and roll spirit. Now, it’s adding a fresh twist by swapping its usual beers for margaritas, courtesy of The Happy Mexican. Beginning April 10th, Sydneysiders can pop into the newly revitalized space to indulge in mouth-watering free tacos that promise to make their taste buds dance, paired of course with that essential shot of tequila to kick start the fiesta vibes. But the generosity doesn’t end there. The Happy Mexican will continue the fiesta throughout April with a $2 taco happy hour from 5-6 pm every evening, starting on the 3rd. The menu boasts an array of tantalizing flavors, from juicy roasted chicken breast and zesty marinated pork, to crispy beer-battered fish, and their signature blockbuster, slow-cooked beef birria tacos. And for those seeking something a little different, they’ve got… Read More

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

Tags: Lansdowne Hotel, Mexican Sydney, sydney hotels

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