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

FOOD & DRINK

Bar Lettera is new food & drink in North Sydney

28/04/2024

North Sydney is gearing up to embrace a new culinary gem with the grand opening of the chic Bar Lettera at Citadines Walker North Sydney on Saturday, 27th April. This contemporary Italo-Australian eatery and wine bar promises a one-of-a-kind all-day dining experience that harmoniously blends European tradition with local ingenuity in a thoughtfully curated setting, offering a glimpse into the artistic essence of North Sydney. Bar Lettera is a multisensory adventure that transcends mere dining. As a proud member of The Ascott Limited’s esteemed brand portfolio, Citadines embodies the essence of ‘City dwellers’, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the essence of urban living, both within their accommodation and beyond. The newest addition, a 90-seat haven, effortlessly straddles the line between restaurant and bar, reflecting Citadines’ core commitment to providing modern and adaptable lodging options in established and emerging urban enclaves. Leading the culinary brigade is Head Chef Ryan Perry, whose culinary vision centres on reinventing traditional Italian fare with a touch of Australian innovation and premium local produce. “Bar Lettera epitomizes a celebration of creativity. Our aim was to craft a communal space – a sanctuary where patrons could relish delightful moments, engaging conversations, and a culinary journey that pairs exquisitely with our wine selection,” remarked David Mansfield, Managing Director of The Ascott Limited Australia. “Our mission was to blend these elements seamlessly to curate a menu that caters to a diverse audience. At Bar Lettera, everyone is not just welcome but invited to partake in the experience.” Area General Manager of The Ascott… Read More

Cinco de Mayo in Sydney: The Lansdowne and The Happy Mexican Fiesta

28/04/2024

By James Banham

Get ready to spice up your Cinco de Mayo festivities, Sydney! This year, The Lansdowne, a beloved city staple since the roaring ’20s, is flipping the script from its usual brews to an explosion of margarita madness, blending its historic allure with a twist of fresh excitement. What’s more exhilarating is the arrival of Melbourne’s culinary sensation, The Happy Mexican, making its grand debut at the iconic Lansdowne Hotel to sprinkle some authentic Mexican fiesta into your celebrations. Launching the party vibes early in April, and leading into the Cinco de Mayo spirit, The Happy Mexican will be dishing out irresistible $2 tacos every evening from 5-6pm. Yes, you heard it right – it’s a taco fiesta, and everyone’s invited, no RSVPs required! Brace yourselves for a lineup of tantalizing flavors, from succulent roasted chicken breast and zesty marinated pork to crispy beer-battered fish and the show-stopping slow-cooked beef birria tacos. Vegetarian delights like Calabacitas and Nopales aren’t forgotten, ensuring a plate for every preference. Behind this culinary revolution is the genius, Julian Romero, and head chef Jesus Rios, a maestro of Mexican cuisine from Mexico City, bringing over twenty years of experience to dazzle Sydney’s adventurous palates. “We’re thrilled to serve up a spectrum of unique, authentic flavors right from the heart of Mexico to Chippendale,” says Rios. With legendary dishes like Quesabirrias and a diverse menu catering to all dietary needs, The Happy Mexican promises an unforgettable dining experience. But what’s a fiesta without drinks to toast? The Lansdowne’s drink menu is equally… Read More

Where to have a Mexican fiesta in Sydney

28/04/2024

By James Banham

It’s that time of the year again, where the flavours of Mexico descend upon us with an exuberance that can only be found at SoCal’s Taco & Tequila Fiesta! This year, we’re turning the heat up with a lineup of events that promise not just a taste, but a full immersion into the vibrant Mexican culture. From the toe-tapping tunes of a live Mariachi band to the adrenaline-pumping chilli eating contest, we’re serving excitement on a platter! Cinco De Mayo Launch Party – The Ultimate Sunday Session Mark your calendars for May 5th because we’re kicking off the festivities with a bang! Immerse yourself in the ultimate party atmosphere as we transform our space to celebrate Cinco De Mayo. Enjoy live music, $15 margaritas, and tacos that will have you coming back for more. The fun starts at 1 pm with an acoustic duo and ramps up with a DJ and a surprise Mariachi band performance. Trust us; you don’t want to miss this! Find out more about the Cinco De Mayo Party Taste of Mexico, Dinner & A Show – A Culinary Journey On Thursday 9th & Thursday 23rd May, join us for a special evening that whisks you away to the heart of Mexico. Prepare to be mesmerized by a live Mexican dancing show while indulging in a sumptuous feast curated by our Head Chef Joel Doyle. At $79 per person, including a starter, main, side, and dessert – plus a welcoming margarita – it’s an experience that marries flavor with culture. Book… Read More

Whiskey pop-up in Sydney with Glenfiddich

28/04/2024

By James Banham

Get ready to immerse yourself in a world where art meets whisky, colour meets taste, and every sip supports an incredible cause! Glenfiddich, the world’s most awarded single malt Scotch whisky, is thrilled to announce its latest collaboration with the dynamic Australian multidisciplinary artist Jordan Gogos. Introducing the ‘Glenfiddich x Jordan Gogos Pop-Up bar’, a spellbinding experience located in the heart of Sydney’s bustling CBD at 200 George Street. This pop-up bar, curated in partnership with the innovative ART AID, is where your love for whisky, art, and philanthropy collide. From April 17th to May 8th, 2024, Dean & Nancy on 22 will transform into a vibrant oasis of creativity. Imagine sipping on exquisite signature whisky cocktails as you’re surrounded by an eclectic mix of colourful textile art, sculptural furniture, and previously unseen art pieces by Jordan Gogos himself. This event isn’t just an exhibition; it’s an invitation to step into a realm where each element is meticulously designed to challenge the borders between gallery space and immersive sensory exploration. At the heart of this experience is the collection of unseen works from Jordan Gogos, spanning art, furniture, to fashion, all inspired by the distinct colourways of Glenfiddich’s iconic aged whisky expressions. Prepare to engage with art in a way you’ve never before, as Gogos’ installation invites you not just to observe, but to interact and become an integral part of the artistic narrative. It’s all about blurring the lines, creating moments, and inspiring conversations in an ambiance that’s entirely unique to this collaboration. Things… Read More

Four Pillars partner with LARK distillery to make whiskey barrel gin

27/04/2024

By James Banham

In a symphony of craft, collaboration, and sheer dedication, Four Pillars introduces its most exceptional creation to date – the Whisky Barrel Gin, a masterpiece born from a harmonious partnership with LARK Distillery and an unwavering commitment to innovation. Set to make its grand entrance on Tuesday 23 April, this limited-edition release of only 2000 bottles has been five years in the making, a testament to the meticulous artistry and passion that define Four Pillars’ gin-making legacy. Drawing upon a decade of gin expertise, Four Pillars embarked on a journey of exploration and experimentation, leveraging the rich complexities of whisky barrels to elevate their Rare Dry Gin to unprecedented heights. Co-Founder and Distiller of Four Pillars, Cameron Mackenzie, a visionary in barrel-aged gin, meticulously curated a selection of Sherry and Apera barrels, each brimming with the essence of excellence. The collaboration with LARK Distillery, a beacon of luxury single malt whisky craftsmanship in Australia, marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of Whisky Barrel Gin. With barrels handpicked from LARK’s renowned collection, the high-proof Rare Dry Gin underwent a transformative ageing process, acquiring intricate layers of flavour and character over the course of four years before being transferred to the illustrious LARK whisky barrels for a final maturation phase in 2023. The culmination of this intricate process resulted in a gin that captivates the senses with its dark spices, preserved citrus notes, and subtle malty undertones. Acclaimed by the discerning palates at the prestigious World Gin Masters 2023, where it earned the esteemed title of… Read More

A new FroYo collaboration to get excited about

by James Banham

Updated: 12/04/2024

When the nation’s beloved frozen yogurt chain, Yo-Chi, partners with the widely acclaimed Pistachio Papi, it’s not just a collaboration; it’s a phenomenon set.

Add another $100k to your home’s sale price

by THE F

Posted: 08/04/2024

Selling your home is not just about putting it on the market and hoping for the best. It’s about crafting an irresistible offer that.

A subterranean bar and dining room in Queenstown NZ

by James Banham

Updated: 08/04/2024

Queenstown, New Zealand – Ayrburn, one of New Zealand’s most anticipated openings, invites guests to experience the precinct’s latest launch, The Barrel Room; an.

There’s a new high tea at El Primo Sanchez in Sydney

by James Banham

Posted: 05/04/2024

High tea, traditionally an elegant affair reserved for the afternoons, often conjures images of fine china, delicate pastries, and an air of sophistication that.

New gallery in Sydney: A Secondary Eye opens

by James Banham

Updated: 17/04/2024

Sydney, Australia is set to welcome a profound addition to its art scene as A Secondary Eye announces the launch of a new gallery.

Yarraville Victoria Hotel in Melbourne is back open

by James Banham

Posted: 05/04/2024

The iconic Victoria Hotel in Yarraville has proudly reopened its doors, unveiling a much-anticipated $2.5 million renovation. This transformation introduces a brand-new beer garden.

Momentous moment in art at National Gallery London

by James Banham

Posted: 05/04/2024

In 2025, the art world will witness a remarkable event at the National Gallery as “Siena: The Rise of Painting 1300?1350” opens its doors.

Melbourne Theatre Company’s new show: The Almighty Sometimes

by James Banham

Posted: 05/04/2024

Kendall Feaver’s illuminating portrait of a mother-daughter relationship, The Almighty Sometimes, will grace the stage of Southbank Theatre, with previews beginning on 15 April..

Rugby on the water at Sydney’s Darling Harbour

by James Banham

Posted: 05/04/2024

This April, Sydney’s iconic Darling Harbour is set to host the adrenaline-pumping BSc Energy Aqua Rugby Festival, Australia’s only floating rugby tournament, for its.

Inaugural Sydney Spirits Festival launches this May

by James Banham

Posted: 05/04/2024

Australia’s spirits scene is on the brink of an exhilarating elevation with the announcement of the inaugural Sydney Spirits Festival. Set to unfold from.

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

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.

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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

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