Category: FOOD & DRINK

Alcohol for breakfast: Archie Rose does a new ArchieMite batch

Updated: 02/05/2019

It’s made from distilled Pepe Saya butter and Sonoma sourdough toast, so it’s basically breakfast; the new batch by Rosebery distillery, Archie Rose, is all kinds of Australian in a bottle. Apparently we’ve got a penchant for umami breakfast spreads – oh, hi Vegemite – so Archie Rose has taken cue and crafted its new – very limited – batch after what we’re into. And apparently, it’s good! “It’s lots of fun,” says Archie Rose master distiller, Dave Withers. “It sits in this weird but interesting place. Trying to describe how it tastes is like trying to describe the colour blue. If you like that savoury flavour of yeast-extract spreads, you’ll really enjoy it.” It uses a combination of individually distilled ingredients including a selection of blended yeast-extract spreads (“mites”) along with 25kg of freshly churned butter and 15kg of toasted sourdough from fellow Sydney producers Pepe Saya and Sonoma Baking Co. so you know it’s at least different. Released on May 8 (maaate), it’ll be a welcome, fun, umami drop to the Archie Rose range, serving up a mitey character at the front followed by a buttery, almost warm, crisp-edged flavour. See more and grab a bottle from the Archie Rose website.

Category: CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

Tags: archie rose, Archie Rose ArchieMite, archie rose distillery, gin, sydney gin, THE F Archie Rose, THE F gin, Vegemite alcohol

Drinking from the Wave Glass means you never need to use straws again

by James Banham

Posted: 01/05/2019

Australia is SO anti-plastic, we’ve all heard by now the shocking reality that every piece of plastic that’s ever been created for us, or used by you, still exists somewhere on Earth. Shocking. Which is why people are making a proactive change in the level of consumption in Australia and to a lesser extent, the world. Enter the Wave Glass, the new invention that’s doing away with one of the needs for straws in drinks that is sure to cut down their use by quite a lot. NOTE: Australians use 10 MILLION plastic straws PER DAY, so any dent in that is a win. The new Wave Glass is a custom made, hand blown piece of glassware that has to compartments for your drinking ease. You’ve still got to crank your neck backwards to down the glasses’ contents, but it’s a darn sight better than smashing through 15 straws over 15 drinks on a Saturday night out with the girls. It took six months to create and develop and now, the patented Dual-Chamber Technology successfully holds liquid mixed with crushed ice and garnish (or whatever features in your preferred drink), while the other vessel acts as the drinking chamber, allowing only the chilled liquid from the bottom of the vessel to be enjoyed. This all means it’s drinkable without ruining lippy, make-up, or making it look like you’re sucking on anything as you go. Trend leader and Bar of the Year*, This Must Be The Place in Sydney, will be the first bar to stock Wave Glass this… Read More

Category: ENVIRONMENT & SUSTAINABILITY, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE

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Jardin Blanc: Eat with Raymond Blanc at the Chelsea Flower Show in London

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

In what is possibly one of London’s most refined experiences at the hands of chef Raymond Blac, Jardin Blanc will again appear in Chelsea this year for a stunning gastronomic experience that money can buy. Blanc’s two hats will take centre stage at the secret garden restaurant – Jardin Blanc – amongst the renowned Chelsea Flower Show in London, giving diners a taste of what the £402 per person package can award you. From 21 to 25 May, Jardin Blanc will once again be the premium hospitality experience and hot ticket for London’s must-visit show, turning out access to the show, a complimentary open bar and special menus curated using the best seasonal ingredients, served with style for ticket holders. It’s all about flowers, food and fine experiences, all designed by Raymond Blanc and inspired by springtime’s sensational produce in a super flash surrounding. What to expect at Jardin Blanc “[Jardin Blanc is] an enchanting place filled with art, food, fun and of course, flowers,” said Raymond. “From breakfast to lunch, afternoon tea or dinner, we’ll provide for you a memorable experience.” Think ‘terrace’, with glasses of champagne, a pergola covering and swinging benches by Myburgh Designs, unlimited gin cocktails using Warner Edwards’ gin and the freshest of spring botanicals. For those a little more ‘hands-on’ and gin inclined, there’s a a gin tasting at Jardin Blanc as part of Tuesday’s La Lily Regale package, which for Friday visitors, means access to a live cookery demonstration from Raymond, with exclusive tastings accompanied by Champagne. Find… Read More

Category: ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, FEATURES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, LONDON

Tags: Chelsea Flower Show, Chelsea Flower Show London, Chelsea London, Jardin Blanc, Jardin Blanx tickets Chelsea Flower Show, Raymond Blanc, THE F Chelsea Flower Show, the f food, The F London, THE F Raymond Blanc

Baluchi does the best Indian food in London – and now with new Naan’ery by Santosh Shah

by James Banham

Updated: 30/04/2019

London might be known for its royalty and weather, but it’s the Indian cuisine that really puts the culinary spotlight on the city. And when places like the new Naan’ery open up at Baluchi London in The LaLit hotel London, it’s easy to see why. The pan-Indian dining destination has hit the ‘go’ button on its new dedicated space offering contemporary twists on traditional bread recipes. They’re all authentically cooked in a cast iron tandoor oven and accompanied by perfectly paired wines. Think traditional Indian flavours in a wildly contemporary space, tailored perfectly to the tastes of inner-city Londoners. Executive Chef Santosh Shah has transformed the humble Indian naan bread – which he prepares right in front of you – all to the tune of four breads made using seasonal ingredients – with tasty choices including porcini & truffle naan; and fig & cheese kulcha. Priced at £55 per person or £99 for two, the selection of Indian breads will be accompanied by a traditional tiffin, featuring a choice of Baluchi’s renowned butter chicken curry, or an aubergine and tamarind curry, alongside the signature dal Baluchi, soft pilau rice and authentic carrot halwa. Oh, and if cooking naan is your thing or you want to just give it a go, Santosh is putting on some masterclasses to get amongst. Here’s what they’re about: Get your tickets from here. Saturday 11 May 2019 – creating the perfect curry and biryani Saturday 20 July 2019 – the art of Indian BBQ and street food Saturday 10 August… Read More

Category: CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, LONDON

Tags: baluchi, Baluchi LaLit London, Baluchi London, London hotels LaLit, Naan bread London, Naan'ery, Santosh Shah Baluchi London

Mother’s Day drinks in Sydney: Spritz Bar and Gin Lane

by James Banham

Posted: 24/04/2019

Sure, having you as a child is probably great and all, but sometimes Mums just need to drown their sorrows, which is why some bars in Sydney and turning it up for them this Mother’s Day. In the lead up to it, master mixologist from Gin Lane & Spritz Bar in Chippendale, Grant Collins, has selected two of his wackiest cocktails to sell at happy hour prices all week. Spritz Bar will put on a cucumber and rose G&T, while Gin Lane has an indulgent champagne and strawberry martini on offer, both for $15 each. Gin Lane Inspired by the Gin Lane print by English artist William Hogarth, the bar is a little bit 1750s-cum-2019, albeit with a sophisticated edge. It’s set in a beautifully restored 18th century terraced town house and captures the building’s old-world charm, with rich jewel tones, warm lighting and timber features. It’s ideal for their Mum’s Day beverage that’s all about neo-classicism and pink, on her special day, working for its charismatic appeal that’re perfect for long evenings of conversation over delicious cocktails. Find Gin Lane on Kensington Street, Chippendale. Spritz Bar A cocktail signature of the Sydney summer, the spritz (Aperol) has won a spot in the hearts of all drinkers and the Spritz Bar, on a rooftop along Kensington Street, isn’t letting it go this autumn. Purposed to do good spritzes, often on Kensington Street, Spritz Bar is about the perfect spot to enjoy a relaxing drink and nibbles both before and after dinner and now, Mother’s Day…. Read More

Category: CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

Tags: Aperol Spritz Sydney, gin lane, Mothers Day cocktails, Mothers Day drinks Cocktails, Mothers Day drinks Sydney, Spritz Bar Sydney, sydney cocktails, THE F Gin Lane, THE F Spritz Bar

If crab’s your thing, it’s Muddy Mania at Kingsley’s Woolloomooloo this April

by Emi Berry

Posted: 17/04/2019

With Mother’s Day creeping up on us, it’s time to start thinking about where to take Mum this year. If you’ve done high tea to death every other year and looking for something different (don’t worry…we’re not suggesting skydiving), then maybe you should consider getting Mum’s hands a little dirty at Kingsleys in Woolloomooloo. It’s called Muddy Mania and this six course, crab-inspired menu is available all through April and will feature at Kingsleys Woolloomooloo up until Mother’s Day 2019. Showcasing delicious Queensland mud crab, you’ll have the opportunity to sit back and enjoy the view at Woolloomooloo wharf while you indulge in several iconic crab dishes – breaking a leg or two! First up on the menu is the ‘snacks’ course, which features three delicious crab dishes, including Alaskan Snow Crab croquette with smoked garlic aioli. The ‘entree’ course features a heavenly gnocchi, mud crab, sage butter and porcini dish. When it’s time to get in the thick of it, Kingleys kindly provides a stylish white bib to protect your clothes when you start the main event. This includes mouth-watering salt and szechuan pepper crab, Singapore chili crab, and chilled crab with a tangy cocktail sauce. For those who like to pair meals with wine, there is also the two hours of bottomless wine option, featuring Cape Mentelle wine from Margaret River, Western Australia. Available to book for throughout April up until Mother’s Day 2019 | $120pp including wine | $90 without wine Get your crab on at Kingsleys Woolloomooloo, 10/6 Cowper St Wharf… Read More

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

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Get porked at The Morrison until 23 May with Pork-A-Palooza

by James Banham

Updated: 12/04/2019

The thought of masticating countless carcasses of piggies isn’t a thing of dreams, but god damn, it’s delicious. As the weather starts to cool in Sydney, city-centre pub favourite – that have a lot to do with oysters, crabs and other food fests throughout the year – The Morrison Bar & Oyster room is dedicating a month of food specials and inventive drinks to delicious, succulent pork. Pork-A-Palooza is his homage to the hog, running from 23 April to 23 May with a specially sourced menu of pork inspired food and drinks, weeknights of swine specials and free piggy snacks at the bar. The menu features bits like chilled pigs head terrine, oysters Kilpatrick with bacon, crispy pork belly with squid and the pièce de résistance – tender suckling pig for a Game of Thrones-style feast. The half suckling pig will satisfy 6-8 people with the whole pig suitable for an army of 10-12. Diners going the whole hog must order their suckling pig 72 hours in advance. Pork-A-Palooza has two weeknight specials running throughout the festival. Tuesdays are Dollar Dog Hour from 6-7pm (walk-ins only), with succulent hot dog sandwiches in white bread with habanero mayo for just $1. And Thursday is officially Ribs Night; from 6pm The Morrison will be serving platters of tender ribs glazed with signature sweet coca cola barbecue sauce for diners to dig in with their hands. See more about everything that;s on offer at the Pork-A-Palooza website.

Category: AUSTRALIAN FOOD, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE

Tags: George Street Sydney, Hotels Sydney, Morrison, Morrison Hotel, morrison sydney, Pork A Palooza Sydney, sydney pubs

Great food in The Rocks, Sydney: Endeavour Tap Rooms aren’t your normal pub

by James Banham

Posted: 12/04/2019

The Endeavour Tap Rooms in The Rocks right on Circular Quay could easily be dismissed as ‘just another pub’ from the outside, but to use that old adage – it’s what inside that counts. The Tap Rooms are so much more than a place to have a beer and a bite. Without even factoring in that they brew their own range of 4 boutique beers, right behind one of the bars, the Tap Rooms’ menu is insane, range of bevs other than beer is madness and level of service is pretty top-notch when you consider it’s a tourist-beaten strip of the olde town. Located within the building that once housed Sydney’s longest-running colonial hotel, Seaman’s, dating back to the 1800s, brewing is in the Tap Rooms’ blood, it seems. Complete with in-house brewery on the ground floor of the adjoining Brew Bar, the 600-litre brewhouse serves batches from its eight vessels and continues the fun with four other mass produced brews in the main Tap Rooms from four rotating taps. Scotty the brew master has more than 10 years of experience under his belt, which he uses to masterfully play with all-Australian ingredients. So needless to say, if you dig beer, then come here; but if food’s your bag, then just wait… The menu is one of epic proportions. If you’re meat-free, they cater to that, but if you do eat meat, then hold on to you knickers – it’s good. Think Ranger’s Valley Black Angus braised beef brisket, Borrowdale pulled pork, house-made sauces, charred… Read More

Category: AUSTRALIAN FOOD, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE

Tags: Best Sydney pubs, Endeavour Tap Rooms, Endeavour Tap Rooms review, sydney pubs, Tap Rooms, Tap Rooms Sydney

The drink to drink before you drink: Body Armour erases hangovers

by James Banham

Posted: 12/04/2019

Mardi Gras, birthdays, Christmas (we all need help), and general Saturday nights all mean one thing: hangovers. But those days might be gone if you’ve got an open mind and a strong will to try anything once: Body Armour exists and is the little drink before a big night out. It’s a little energy-loaded, nutrient-rich power shot that you take at least an hour prior to drinking as a drinking prophylactic so you wake up in the morning feeling less shit than you otherwise would. Look, nothing’s fool-proof, but there’s something to be said for the ‘one drink, one glass of water’ rule combined with one of these. You wake up feeling on top – more or less – of your game. New to the Australian market (launched October 27) Body Armour is the little drink to have before a big night out. Designed to provide you with essential nutrients and relief from your typical hangover symptoms, this liquid gold is the perfect solution to keeping you on track for your fitness goals. Body Armour at the Sydney Fitness Show Body Armour will have a stand at this year’s Fitness Show (April 12-14 2019 at the ICC Sydney) where you can test the drink, get free stuff and win stuff. And just generally be surrounded by good-looking people.

Category: CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

Tags: Body Armour, Body Armour drink, Fitness Show, Hangover, hangover cure, Hangover relief, How to avoid hangover, Sydney Fitness Show

7 Game of Thrones themed whiskies: The new collection of malts

The Game of Thrones Single Malt Scotch Whisky Collection launch full collection

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

Game of Thrones final season (SAD!) is only 6 sleeps away and to celebrate, here’s a new range of whiskies to try (responsibly) each night until the grand unveiling. Get shopping. Named fittingly after each family house of Westeros, the Game of Thrones range is a nice taster back into the season we’ve been waiting over a year for. Each bottle is inspired by the fearlessness of the family it represents, bodied to-boot and with packaging that strikes as much fear into an observer, drinker or entertainer, as a cold, heartless stare from Cersei Lannister. Here’s what each bottle is about… Game of Thrones House Stark – Dalwhinnie Winter’s Frost House Stark’s resiliency, strength and ability to thrive under the most intense situations are greatly shaped by Winterfell’s frigid temperatures. Dalwhinnie, known for being one of the highest distilleries in all of Scotland is cold and remote much like The North where House Stark calls home, making the two an iconic pairing. Extreme conditions are responsible for shaping the signature Dalwhinnie Winter’s Frost honeyed sweetness and spicy warmth. Naturally, it’s best served chilled or over ice. TASTE: Honey and fresh fig develop on the palate followed by a delicious maltiness and rich fruit cake. Game of Thrones House Tully – Singleton of Glendullan Select House Tully located at Riverrun, rules as the lord of the River lands. The power of water flows through both House Tully and The Singleton Glendullan Select as it is made on the banks of the River Fiddich in the wooded hills of… Read More

Category: FEATURES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE

Tags: game of thrones, Game of Thrones whiskies, GOT Whiskeys, Where to buy Game of Thrones whisky, Whiskies

ARTS & CULTURE

British Museum and Huw Locke explore legacies of Empire

28/04/2024

By James Banham

The British Museum has embarked on a groundbreaking collaboration with the esteemed Guyanese-British artist, Hew Locke, for a significant new exhibition delving into how the Museum’s collection reflects the enduring legacies of British imperial power from centuries past to the present day. This innovative exhibition, co-curated by Locke, will showcase iconic objects from the Museum’s vast collection alongside specially commissioned new works by the artist himself. Throughout his illustrious career, Locke has demonstrated a profound interest in objects and the narratives they harbor. His connection to the British Museum collection dates back to his formative years as a student in London, where he frequented the Museum of Mankind to draw inspiration from its ethnographic collections. This forthcoming exhibition marks a milestone as Locke’s first venture into artist-curated museum exhibitions, offering him a unique opportunity to delve deeply into a museum collection unlike ever before. The rich history and holdings of the British Museum intertwine closely with the narrative of the British Empire. This exhibition is poised to dissect these intertwined histories while engaging with the contemporary debates swirling around cultural heritage. By focusing on Britain’s historical interactions with Africa, India, and the Caribbean—regions that significantly influenced Guyana, Locke’s place of upbringing—the exhibition will serve as a personal exploration by utilizing interventionist techniques to reframe historical objects within the collection. Locke’s exploration aims to unravel the intricate ways in which museums are entangled in the legacies of Empire, embracing the complexities and ambiguities of these narratives. Rather than providing definitive answers, Locke seeks to provoke introspection… Read More

Why the British Museum this spring: Michelangelo’s last decades exhibition

28/04/2024

By James Banham

Embark on a transcendent journey through the final captivating chapters of Michelangelo’s illustrious life and legacy with the groundbreaking exhibition, “Michelangelo: the last decades,” set to grace the halls of the British Museum from 2 May to 28 July 2024. Delving deep into the intricate tapestry of the Renaissance master’s late career, this immersive showcase promises a revelatory exploration of how art and faith intertwined in the twilight years of an iconic artist. At the heart of the exhibition lies the monumental Epifania (about 1550–53), a towering masterpiece that stands as a testament to Michelangelo’s enduring genius. Following meticulous conservation efforts that began in 2018, this over-two-metres-high artwork emerges from its slumber to embody the pinnacle of Renaissance craftsmanship, offering spectators a rare glimpse into the artist’s profound creative process. A striking highlight of the exhibition is the reunion of Epifania with the painting derived from it by Michelangelo’s biographer, Ascanio Condivi, loaned from Casa Buonarroti, Florence. This poignant juxtaposition illuminates the symbiotic relationship between drawing and painting, showcasing how Michelangelo’s visionary compositions transcended generations and genres. As visitors traverse the halls of the British Museum, they will witness the evolution of Michelangelo’s artistic prowess as he navigated the complexities of aging and adaptation in a rapidly changing world. Departing from the popular narrative of his youthful masterpieces like the David and the Sistine Chapel ceiling, the exhibition sheds light on the lesser-known yet equally captivating works that defined Michelangelo’s later years. Through a diverse array of drawings, preparatory sketches, and personal correspondence, “Michelangelo: the… Read More

breakdance head spin pexels pixabay 159273

Experience break dancing like never before this MAy

24/04/2024

By James Banham

Get ready to experience the ultimate celebration of hip hop culture, innovation, and artistry at Breakin’ Convention 2024. An international festival of Hip Hop dance theatre, it’ll be taking over Sadler’s Wells in Islington this coming May Bank Holiday. Enthusiastically helmed by the visionary UK hip hop maker and Breakin’ Convention Artistic Director Jonzi D, this festival has become a beacon for fans and creators of hip hop from around the globe. The excitement is palpable as we gear up for two days packed with jaw-dropping performances, interactive workshops, and live music that promise to electrify the Sadler’s Wells venues on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 May. With an extraordinary lineup featuring international sensations like Femme Fatale (USA), Sons of Wind (France), and Jinjo crew (South Korea), alongside groundbreaking UK acts such as TRAPLORD, Boy Blue, and When Time Was New, this festival is set to showcase the dynamic and diverse world of hip hop dance theatre. Attendees of all ages can look forward to a vast array of activities including spectacular dance performances, bespoke graffiti workshops, freestyle sessions, and even live DJs sessions that guarantee to keep the energy high and the spirit of hip hop alive throughout the entire building. Not to mention, the festival coincides with the historic moment of breaking becoming an official Olympic sport at the Paris Olympics, adding an extra layer of exhilaration to the festivities. Beyond the performances, Breakin’ Convention 2024 invites audiences to engage directly with the hip hop community through unique events such as the Tiny… Read More

Opera Australia orchestrates a new era with Matthieu Arama as Concertmaster

24/04/2024

By James Banham

In a move that marks a significant milestone in its illustrious history, Opera Australia has announced the appointment of the renowned French violinist Matthieu Arama as the new Concertmaster of the Opera Australia Orchestra (OAO). This announcement follows an exhaustive global search, culminating in Mr. Arama’s selection, a testament to his extraordinary talent and leadership abilities. Set to join the OAO in August of this year, Arama brings with him a wealth of experience as the current Concertmaster of the Opéra National de Bordeaux, coupled with an impressive track record of performances with some of the world’s most distinguished conductors. View this post on Instagram A post shared by matthieu arama (@matthieu_arama) Arama’s role will be pivotal in steering the OAO towards achieving artistic brilliance across its broad annual repertoire, which spans over 250 opera, ballet, musical theatre, and concert performances for Opera Australia and The Australian Ballet. His recent engagements as Guest Concertmaster for Opera Australia on iconic productions such as La Traviata and Swan Lake, alongside The Australian Ballet, and a solo recital featuring opera and ballet excerpts, underscore his extraordinary versatility and musicianship. The enthusiasm within the OAO is palpable, with Acting Concertmaster Huy-Nguen Bui expressing excitement over welcoming Arama to the helm. “The OAO is excited to welcome an exceptional violinist and musician as our new Concertmaster. We look forward to reaching the highest levels of music-making through Mr. Arama’s artistic leadership,” said Bui. This sentiment is echoed by Opera Australia’s CEO Fiona Allan, Artistic Director Jo Davies, The Australian Ballet’s… Read More

Lauren Brincat When Do I Breathe 2024. Performer Jasmin Lancaster. Photographer Zan Wimberley. Courtesy of the artist

Public performance in Randwick Sydney by artist Lauren Brincat

22/04/2024

By James Banham

This week, the Randwick Health & Innovation Precinct will experience an exceptional infusion of art and community spirit through a public performance by the celebrated multidisciplinary artist Lauren Brincat. Scheduled for one-night only, on Wednesday, 24 April 2024, Brincat’s performance marks the launch of the new Laneway Art Program. This initiative, commissioned by the Randwick Health & Innovation Precinct and supported by Transport for NSW’s Safer Cities program, seeks to enhance perceptions of safety for women, girls, and gender diverse people navigating the streets and laneways of the Precinct. Brincat, along with Rochelle Haley, another leading Australian artist, has been entrusted with the mission to improve night-time connectivity and comfort within the precinct through performance-based and site-specific artwork. Both artists have engaged directly with health workers in the area to shape their projects, aiming to make the public spaces more welcoming and to strengthen the sense of community, safety, and inclusiveness across the site. The artwork, titled When do I breathe?, is an ambitious collaboration with sound artist Evelyn Ida Morris, UNSW Choral Director Sonia Maddock, and choreographer Charmene Yap. It invites the public to actively participate in shaping new paths across the precinct, offering a unique experience that encompasses three activation sites within the UNSW Kensington and the hospital precinct. The performance, beginning at 5:00 pm on the UNSW Scientia Lawn, is a reflection on the interconnectedness of local communities, especially those separated by differing work shifts and daily rhythms. Aiming to reclaim public space through collective action, When do I breathe? presents an… Read More