THE F - FOOD & DRINK, ARTS & CULTURE, LIFE & TRAVEL

FOOD & DRINK

Korean food in Sydney? You only need Arisun

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

Memphis hosts World Champion Barbecue cooking contest this May

01/05/2024

By James Banham

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

New VIVA North Melbourne cabaret venue and bar

01/05/2024

By James Banham

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

Toby’s Estate Brisbane flagship cafe is open

01/05/2024

By James Banham

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.

Celebrate Mother’s Day in Style with Ruben’s Deli

30/04/2024

By James Banham

Are you still on the lookout for the ultimate Mother’s Day surprise? Your search ends at Ruben’s Deli! Amanda Ruben, the heart and soul behind Ruben’s, has meticulously curated a collection of Mother’s Day delights that are sure to impress the phenomenal women in your life. Whether it’s indulging in scrumptious treats or gathering around a stunningly prepared meal, Ruben’s offers an unmatched celebration. Kickstart the festivities with an irresistible Mother’s Day Babka Wheel. This limited edition treat is a masterpiece of Ruben’s signature dough, swirled with a delicious raspberry ripple, then baked to perfection. It’s crowned with decadent cheesecake icing, adorned with fresh raspberries and delicate rose petals, making it the epitome of indulgence. Available for pre-order either in-store or online, this babka promises to be a fluffy, mouthwatering treat that Mum will adore. When it comes to catering, Ruben’s Deli outshines with its variety of succulent options. Choose from either a breakfast or lunch box brimming with Ruben’s renowned dishes. Imagine presenting a magnificent cake – an architectural marvel made of Italian sponge, tangy lemon curd, and luxurious chantilly cream, all beautifully decorated with fresh flowers. It’s not just a cake; it’s a statement of elegance and love. For a cozy breakfast, the breaky box offers an ensemble of house-cured ocean trout, herby cream cheese, and an array of accompaniments, serving 4 to 6 people. Or, opt for the lunch box, a culinary adventure that includes Italian wild greens and ricotta pie, hummus, and a choice between deli tuna salad or potato salad,… Read More

Travelling sustainably: Lonely Planet’s guide to not killing the earth while you holiday

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

Think off-grid camps, community stays, responsible wildlife encounters, cultural immersion tours, conservation opportunities, green hotels and more, the new guide book by Lonely Planet,.

Haircut and a cocktail: Why Sharps barber is doing Metaxa cocktails

by James Banham

Posted: 18/02/2020

Everybody loves a drink. Everybody needs a haircut. Combine the two and you’ve got a great after-work activity, delivering you a new look and.

London: Where to celebrate Holi Festival

by James Banham

Posted: 18/02/2020

So, there’s two things to know about Holi Festival, the Indian fest of colour and it’s heaps of fun. Also, food. A vital part.

Where to drink pink: The Lanique pop-up bar in London

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

Lanique, Spirit of Rose has teamed up with VAULT Festival 2020 (28th January – 22nd March), to bring bespoke rose tinted cocktails to London’s boldest arts and theatre.

Easiest way to get to the Sydney Mardi Gras from these 6 cities

by James Banham

Posted: 18/02/2020

You anywhere but Sydney and planning to go to Mardi Gras? Worry not; Sydney might be far, but it’s still connected. Here’s how with.

The Winery Sydney goes gay this Mardi Gras

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

The Winery on Crown Street, Sydney, right at the epicentre of all things Mardi Gras this year, is turning it on. Think wine, champagne,.

Sydney: Bar Totti’s open – and why you should care

by James Banham

Posted: 17/02/2020

The ivy in Sydney has a new housemate: Bar Totti. It’s walk in only, the relative to the Bondi version and front-and-centre in the.

Electric Gardens Festival Sydney: Craig David’s back

by James Banham

Posted: 17/02/2020

Electric Gardens is on. For lovers of quality tunes at a quality spot, Electric Gardens will deliver its biggest and most diverse lineup yet.

You can now drink pink gin without the guilt

by James Banham

Updated: 17/02/2020

Greenall’s Wild Berry Gin is summer and now, you can do it without the guilt of thinking you’re drinking too much sugar. With no.

Melbourne: The Prince Public Bar is open again

by James Banham

Posted: 17/02/2020

Late nights, Sunday mornings, bayside debauchery and live music shenanigans are back at the gateway to the southeast: The Prince Public Bar. St Kilda’s.

ARTS & CULTURE

Ballet Flamenco – Sara Baras Voces Suite Flamenca cred Santana de Yepes I

Flamenco Festival London 2024 is back

05/05/2024

By THE F

London’s acclaimed Sadler’s Wells Theatre is set to host the exhilarating Flamenco Festival 2024 from Tuesday 4th to Saturday 15th June, now in its remarkable 19th edition. The recent residency by Paco Pena gave us a taste of what to expect! This year’s festival is brimming with anticipation, featuring ten UK premieres and showcasing a constellation of flamenco’s brightest stars. With performances spanning across the iconic Sadler’s Wells Theatre and the intimate Lilian Baylis Studio, attendees are promised an immersive experience into the heart of flamenco’s vibrant tradition and its contemporary interpretations. Kicking off the festival is the critically acclaimed Rocío Molina, who returns to stun audiences with her innovative piece, Al Fondo Riela, on 4th June. Molina’s performance is a profound exploration of reflection and reality, encapsulated through the traditional flamenco trio of dance, song, and guitar. Her artistry is complemented by the expertise of guitarists Oscar Lago and Yerai Cortés, setting the stage for a festival that melds tradition with avant-garde interpretations. The festival skyrockets further with appearances by flamenco guitar virtuoso Vicente Amigo, presenting a mesmerising concert that traverses classical and nuevo flamenco realms, and the dramatic duo Patricia Guerrero and Alfonso Losa in Alter Ego, a show born from spontaneous improvisation that promises an intimate glimpse into the soul of flamenco dance. Adding to the festival’s allure, Eva Yerbabuena contemplates her illustrious 20-year career in Yerbagüena (bright dark), delivering performances that promise to be evocative and spellbinding, while the renowned Israel Fernández teams up with guitarist Diego del Morao to present… Read More

Dutch piano virtuoso returns to the Sydney Opera House

30/04/2024

By James Banham

Mark your calendars and prepare to be enveloped in the soul-stirring sounds of Joep Beving, as the maestro makes his grand return to the Opera House this July. After mesmerising audiences in previous years, Beving is back with a bang, ready to unveil the mystical realms of Hermetism across two spellbinding shows on Monday, 22 July 2024. Each performance promises an experience akin to a spiritual odyssey, underscored by Beving’s deeply introspective, neoclassical sound that has captivated millions globally. This year, the enigmatic Dutch pianist is set to elevate his musical narrations to unprecedented heights, blending his artistry with an awe-inspiring audio-visual spectacle developed alongside the innovative minds of Boris Acket, Merijn Versnel, and Roxanne Percobic. Hermetism, drawing inspiration from Beving’s 2022 album, invites you on an enchanted voyage exploring the essence of spirituality, the elusive nature of time, and the depths of the inner self. This isn’t just a concert; it’s an invitation to transcend the ordinary, led by a masterful storyteller who’s rediscovered his love for the piano and transformed it into a source of universal connection and wonder. Joep Beving’s remarkable journey from personal loss to streaming stardom is a testament to the power of music to heal, unite, and inspire. With over 200 million streams on Spotify and a place among the giants of post-classical composition, Beving’s return to the Opera House isn’t just an event; it’s a pivotal moment in the world of contemporary music. As Ben Marshall, Sydney Opera House Head of Contemporary Music, aptly puts it, “Joep describes… Read More

Sydney Film Festival’s World Premier of Midnight Oil

28/04/2024

By James Banham

The 71st Sydney Film Festival is set to kick off with a bang as it proudly presents the World Premiere of Midnight Oil: The Hardest Line at its Opening Night Gala on Wednesday, June 5, at the prestigious State Theatre. Following the screening, a vibrant post-screening celebration will light up the Sydney Town Hall, marking a milestone event in the festival’s history. The Hardest Line unravels the pioneering narrative of Midnight Oil like never before on the silver screen. Defiant. Passionate. Vocal. Over their illustrious 45-year journey, ‘The Oils’ have left an indelible mark on modern Australia with anthems such as US Forces, Beds Are Burning, Blue Sky Mine, and Redneck Wonderland. This groundbreaking documentary features exclusive interviews with every band member, unseen live performances and studio footage, and iconic moments like the outback tour with Warumpi Band, the Exxon protest gig in New York, and the unforgettable “Sorry” suits at the Sydney Olympics, encapsulating the extraordinary odyssey of Australia’s quintessential rock ensemble. Sydney Film Festival Director Nashen Moodley expressed his excitement, stating, “We are delighted to feature Midnight Oil: The Hardest Line as our opening film this year. This documentary not only charts the remarkable journey of one of Australia’s most influential bands but also encapsulates the ethos of an era that reshaped our cultural and political landscapes. It is a tribute to their enduring legacy and a poignant reflection on their enduring influence that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.” Writer, director, and executive producer Paul Clarke shared his sentiments, “There exists no… Read More

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

Michelangelo last decades exhibition at British Museum this spring

28/04/2024

By James Banham

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.