Category: FOOD & DRINK

Why you should revisit Aria on Sydney Harbour next date night

Food Aria SpringSummer2024 JurassicQuail 2

After a quarter-century of dazzling Sydney’s fine dining scene, Aria is shaking things up with a fresh approach to dining that’s as bold as a kangaroo on caffeine. This iconic restaurant, helmed by culinary maestro Matt Moran and the Solotel group, is renowned for its contemporary Australian flair, and it’s now embracing a new chapter with a dynamic menu that promises to keep diners on their toes. Gone are the days of the prescriptive seasonal menu. Instead, Aria is rolling out a flexible array of dining options that cater to both the casual lunch crowd and the full-blown gastronomy enthusiasts. Whether you’re popping in for a two-course lunch or gearing up for an eight-course culinary marathon, Aria’s new offerings are designed to accommodate any appetite. The choices are varied: a two-course menu at $120 per person for a quick yet sumptuous bite, a three-course at $180 for a more rounded experience, or dive into the five-course ($240) and eight-course ($290) tasting menus for a complete sensory journey. Restaurateur Matt Moran shared his excitement about this evolution, saying, “Aria was created with the vision of bringing an exceptional dining experience to Sydney; 25 years on and we are still creating unforgettable experiences for those who dine with us. The eight-course menu will include a few surprises that do not feature on the main menu, providing a true taste of our team’s talent.” A significant shift also sees Aria’s kitchen aligning with Australia’s top producers, ensuring the freshest hyper-seasonal produce graces their plates. This means more frequent… Read More

Amatrice Rooftop Restaurant open in Melbourne

AmatriceRooftop lr 175 Melbourne restaurant dining room

Perched atop Cremorne’s tallest building, the much-anticipated Amatrice Rooftop Restaurant is now open, ready to welcome locals and Melburnians alike. Offering spectacular views of the city skyline, this modern-Italian dining destination promises a unique experience in the heart of Cremorne. Situated on the rooftop of Cubitt Place at 16 Stephenson Street, Amatrice Rooftop Restaurant is the crowning jewel following its sister venue, Caffé Amatrice, which opened on the ground floor in September. Behind this Italian venture are hospitality veterans Dave Parker, along with Kelly and Alex Brawn, who have drawn inspiration from the picturesque Italian village of Amatrice. “We’re excited to be bringing an offering to Cremorne that’s wanted and needed. Melbourne is known for its rooftop bars, but Amatrice Rooftop Restaurant will be doing things a little differently,” says co-owner Alex Brawn. “First and foremost – we’re a restaurant, the dining offer is the hero and in equal merit to the view, it’s central to the venue experience.” Accessed via a stylish lift lobby designed by Splinter Society Architecture, the venue reaches the tenth floor where award-winning interior designer Brahman Perera has crafted an elegant setting. The design nods to the chic allure of globally recognised venues like the Soho House rooftops, featuring imported red marble tables, red velvet banquette seating, and aqua subway tiles. Sculptural lighting and overhanging pendant shades from Arturo Alvarez add layers of sophistication, while olive trees and a retractable glass roof enhance the indoor-outdoor ambience. Leading the kitchen is Head Chef Vincenzo Di Giovanniello, whose Italian heritage shines through… Read More

New restaurant to try in Sydney: Oribu on Church Street

Oribu Japanese SIGNATURE CRISPY RICE QUARTET 2

Nestled in the heart of Church Street’s esteemed Heritage Precinct, Oribu is embarking on an exciting new chapter, unveiling not just one, but three culinary maestros at its helm. This dynamic trio of head chefs—Jay Lee, Jaybert Teves, and Bryan Paul Nery—bring their unique flair and expertise to the kitchen, introducing a vibrant new spring-summer menu, Natsu no Yume – Summer Dream. Under the guidance of these chefs, Oribu’s kitchen transforms into a harmonious symphony of flavours, where each chef’s individual style melds into a menu that is truly greater than the sum of its parts. Jaybert Teves, an artist in sashimi, leverages his experience from Sokyo to blend classic techniques with seasonal flavours. His creations, such as the watermelon-cured snapper and mango-dressed tuna, offer a refreshing twist on traditional sashimi, capturing the summer essence in every bite. Taking charge of the hot food station, Jay Lee infuses his fine dining prowess from Aria into dishes that celebrate local produce with Japanese finesse. A highlight from his repertoire includes the lobster tail, elegantly paired with charred lemon, asparagus, and a miso beurre blanc, showcasing his skill in harmonising robust flavours with refined presentation. Bringing a playful Southeast Asian influence to the mix, Bryan Paul Nery crafts inventive small plates designed to surprise and delight. His tempura prawn taco with mango salsa and spicy tuna maki are not only visually captivating but also perfectly balance taste and texture. Oribu continues to delight with its popular tasting menus, offering two meticulously curated 10-course journeys. The Signature Tasting… Read More

New cafe in Atarmon, Sydney you need to try: Buckle Cafe Distillery

Sunny outside cafe

Nestled between the vibrant Inner West and the sophisticated North Shore, Artarmon is a suburb that beautifully blends casual café culture with an upper-market wine bar obsession. Adding a fresh twist to this mix is Buckle + Depot, Artarmon’s new bistro-meets-distillery and brewery, which offers locals a unique space to both pause and play. Following a successful soft opening earlier in October, the first half of this dual-venue, Buckle Cafe Distillery, is all set for its grand opening on Tuesday, 22nd October. Housed in a stunning glass atrium next to the heritage-listed building at 1 Frederick Street, this 150-seater venue aims to provide an inclusive experience for the Lower North Shore community. “We wanted to create a venue that seamlessly connects café and cocktail culture, where anyone can come to pause or play,” explains General Manager James Peters, alongside Executive Chef Johnny Sercombe. “This is something we’ve injected into every aspect of the venue from the interiors to the menu. We really wanted a transformative space – something that offered one thing by day, another by night, and a bit of both in between, depending on the experience customers want.” Johnny Sercombe, renowned for his work with top hospitality groups like Merivale, Solotel, and Applejack, brings a flavour-packed and versatile menu to Buckle. Patrons can enjoy a seamless transition from café lunches to evening dinners, with options like a Bacon & Egg Roll, Avocado On Toast, and Acai Bowl for brunch. As the clock strikes 12, the menu shifts to heartier offerings like a Falafel… Read More

Sydney’s new Japanese foodie precinct Prefecture 48 should be top of your list

prefecture 48 japanese

If you thought you’d tasted all Sydney has to offer, think again. Prefecture 48 has landed in the CBD with a bang, and it’s here to shake up the dining scene with six separate and unique Japanese-inspired venues spanning three floors under one (very, very stylish) roof. The entire ethos behind this venture from Azabu group is simple: good hospitality. Every venue, and there is quite the range from casual to fine dining, is centered around providing the finest aspects of Japanese tradition and transforming it into an experience that fosters connections and memorable experiences. Every dish is created to showcase each chefs mastery and the diverse tastes and food styles of Japan. Prepare for a culinary adventure that spans Japan’s 47 prefectures, and enter the (unofficial) 48th right here on Sussex Street Sydney. Whether it’s the elegant kaiseki at Garaku or the Tokyo-style robata grilling at Ibushi, every dish across Prefecture 48 is a nod to Japan’s rich and diverse food culture. Omakase enthusiasts, you’ll want to lock in a seat at their eight-seat sushi bar, where guest chefs bring their A-game with a rotating menu selected by them. With its fusion of Japanese and European dishes, FIVE is bound to become your new lunch break obsession. From elevated snacks to serious mains, it blends flavours with a finesse that feels very cosmopolitan. And when the inevitable post-meal sweet craving hits, the in-house patisserie Dear Florence is ready to indulge you on the ground floor. If you’re not looking to dine but drink, don’t… Read More

Sydney Beer Week – where to go in Sydney

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As the calendar flips to mid-October, beer enthusiasts in Sydney have every reason to raise their glasses in cheer. Applejack is pulling out all the stops for beer lovers with a week-long celebration, offering special deals across three of their buzzing venues: Taphouse, Forrester’s, and SoCal. Running from 18th to 25th October, this is the ideal time to rally your friends, indulge in delicious grub, and perhaps make a few pour decisions along the way. Kicking off the festivities, Taphouse in Darlinghurst is hosting a Grifter Brewing Tap Takeover on Friday, 18th October. Starting at 6pm, beer aficionados can snag one of the 50 free schooners up for grabs — but be quick, as it’s first come, first served. Even if you miss out on the freebies, you won’t be disappointed. All night long, Grifter Pale Ale schooners are served at a special price of just $7.50. Throughout the week, Grifter’s taps will be flowing with a selection of four beloved brews, including the refreshing Grifter Pale Ale, the quirky ‘Serpents Kiss’ Watermelon Pilsner, the intriguing Kool Thing IPA, and the tangy Pink Galah Lemonade Sour. But that’s not all Applejack has up its sleeve. They’ve teamed up with the local legends at Young Henrys to craft their first collaboration brew, ‘Hazy Love’. This tropical-inspired beer, with notes of toasted coconut and citrus, is a hazy New England IPA that promises the flavours of a Sydney summer. Donovan Binks, Applejack’s Group Beverage Manager, describes it as having a “smooth and creamy texture,” perfect for enjoying… Read More

Where to go for rose wine in Sydney this summer

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This spring, Sydney’s harbourside suburb of Rose Bay offers a lush escape into Mediterranean delights with the Rosé Bay long lunch experience at Martina. This unique dining affair, available every Sunday from 20th October through 1st December, promises a culinary journey through Italy and France with a spectacular four-course lunch, each dish thoughtfully paired with some of France’s finest rosé wines. Flávio Carnevale, the mastermind behind Martina, has crafted a menu that seamlessly marries the rich flavours of Italian cuisine with the elegance of French rosés. The collaboration features exquisite selections such as Miraval Côtes de Provence Rosé, Sieur D’Arques Sparkling Rosé, Lyv Rosé, and Domaine De La Croix Le Cap, all of which enhance the dining experience with their vibrant, refreshing notes. As you settle in for this gourmet journey, the starter presents a choice of Carpaccio, Prosciutto, or Caprese salad, perfectly complemented by the crisp Domaine de la Croix Le Cap. This lively rosé balances the savory notes of the dishes, setting the stage for a tantalising meal. Next, the pasta course invites you to savour either Linguine Crab, Carbonara, or Puttanesca Vegana, each paired with the light and refreshing Lyv Rosé. This wine’s subtle charm makes it an ideal accompaniment, enhancing the flavours of the pasta with its effervescent profile. For the main course, diners can choose between Pesce and Bistecchina, accompanied by the illustrious Miraval Côtes de Provence Rosé. Known for its bright acidity and rich flavors, this rosé creates a harmonious and elevated pairing with the main dishes, ensuring a… Read More

Best place for sushi down the Mornington Peninsula

Sushi Sashimi Nigiri Portsea Hotel Credit Kristoffer Paulsen 1

This summer, Mornington Peninsula’s iconic Portsea Hotel is set to become the ultimate destination for lovers of exquisite Japanese cuisine. Open 7 days a week from 3-19 January 2025, the hotel will host a refined dining pop-up that promises an unforgettable culinary journey. With sweeping views of Port Phillip Bay as your backdrop, prepare yourself for a harmonious blend of sea, summer, and sushi—a feast for both the eyes and the palate. At the heart of this enchanting pop-up is Chef-in-Residence Yukio Ozeki, whose culinary prowess is as impressive as the setting itself. Born and raised in Tokyo, Ozeki honed his craftsmanship at the world-renowned Tsukiji fish market. His mastery of fugu, the delicate art of preparing pufferfish, and kaiseki, the multi-course dining experience lauded as the pinnacle of Japanese haute cuisine, positions him perfectly to offer guests a truly unique and refined dining experience. The six-course set menu, priced at $150 per person, is a celebration of the finest sustainably sourced seafood and premium Wagyu beef. Guests will embark on a culinary adventure starting with Robata chicken hearts accompanied by antichurch sauce, and salted edamame with nori. These starters set the stage for a luxurious Crayfish chawanmushi, topped with ikura and yuzu Yuan sauce, and a delightful salmon zuke with sunrise lime and pickled daikon salsa. As the evening unfolds, indulge in seasonal sushi, sashimi, and nigiri. The menu continues with chicken karaage paired with Sichuan mayonnaise and yuzu, and King mushroom with asparagus in truffle butter. A highlight of the main course is… Read More

Ovata House is a new luxe experience to have in Sydney

1. Ovata House Ovata by Oakridge Event

This October, Sydney is set to host a dazzling event that promises to captivate wine enthusiasts and luxury seekers alike. For one weekend only, on October 26 and 27, the premier Yarra Valley sparkling wine, Ovata by Oakridge, will transform the iconic Gatsby House in Darling Point into the exclusive Ovata House. This remarkable event offers guests an afternoon of indulgence, combining the pleasure of exquisite sparkling wine with the allure of a breathtaking setting and lively entertainment. Nestled in one of Sydney’s most prestigious neighborhoods, Gatsby House exudes 1920s Hollywood glam. Its manicured lawns, expansive 18-metre pool, and Mediterranean-inspired architecture provide an idyllic backdrop for this ultimate pool-club experience. The grandeur of the manor complements the vibrant festivities awaiting attendees, ensuring a luxurious escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Guests will delight in the exceptional Ovata by Oakridge, crafted by seasoned winemaker Teresa Heuzenroeder. With over 20 years of expertise in some of Australia’s most renowned wine regions, Heuzenroeder has meticulously selected chardonnay and pinot noir grapes from the Yarra Valley to produce this sparkling masterpiece. Ovata by Oakridge is bottle fermented and aged for an average of 18 months on lees, resulting in a wine that offers a harmonious blend of freshness and complexity. Its enchanting notes of fresh florals, citrus, brioche, and toast create a symphony of flavors that invite celebration and joy. The event, designed to capture the spirit of elegance and celebration, includes a selection of sparkling-based cocktails, complemented by delectable bites from Aplenty. As guests savor these culinary… Read More

A new brewery coming to Manly in Sydney: Felons Brewing Co.

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Felons Brewing Co., a standout name in Australia’s craft beer scene, is set to make waves in Sydney with its expansion to the iconic Manly Wharf Bar from Friday, 18 October. This move comes as part of the Artemus Group’s vision to transform Manly Wharf into a lively hub of community and cultural experiences, following their ownership in April 2024. As the centerpiece of this revitalised waterfront destination, Felons Brewing Co. promises to bring its award-winning brews and cheerful community spirit to Sydney’s Northern Beaches. “We’re thrilled to unveil Felons’ new home at Manly Wharf,” said Adam Flaskas, co-founder and director of Artemus Group, expressing their commitment to creating a dynamic, community-focused locale that elevates the hospitality scene. Paul Henry, co-founder and director of Artemus Group, shared his excitement, noting the special connection Manly holds for him and the honour of bringing Felons to such a beloved location. The brewery, founded by Flaskas, Henry, CEO Luke Fraser, brand director Dean Romeo, and brewery director Tom Champion, is renowned for its straightforward brewing philosophy. “We focus on fresh, local ingredients to produce balanced beers that enhance sociability and memorable experiences,” explained Champion. Felons Manly will feature a selection of their celebrated beers, including the Crisp Lager, Galaxy Haze, and Australian Pale Ale, alongside barrel-aged, seasonal, and limited-edition brews. Beyond the beer, the drinks menu will offer refreshing cocktails, Champagne, a curated selection of Australian and international wines, spirits, and non-alcoholic options, all thoughtfully chosen to complement the stunning harbourside setting. The culinary offerings at Felons Manly… Read More