Melbourne city dinner options if you’re seeing Wicked

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Updated: 28/04/2026

The Westin Melbourne is excited to announce its partnership with the internationally acclaimed Broadway musical WICKED, bringing the magic of musical theatre into the heart of Melbourne’s CBD. From March 2 through to June, an array of wonderfully WICKED-themed experiences will be on offer for guests and theatregoers, including bespoke accommodation packages, a decadent high tea, and a new cocktail menu of enchanting concoctions – sure to be ‘pop-u-lar’ with fans.

Executive Chef, Apoorva Kunte shares, “Creating this menu has been a lot of fun and the friendship between WICKED’s main characters, Elphaba and Glinda, has been the inspiration to bring it to life. Using local and sustainable produce, I’ve paired ingredients that share a camaraderie and complement each other when served together, yet hold its own distinct characteristics and identities, just like the main leads. The show’s bright and vibrant colours also lead the high tea, with the iconic WICKED green taking centre stage”.

Fans will get a fix of wicked flavours in the enchanting WICKED High Tea ($85 per person), sure to charm diners with every bite. Available daily from 11 – 5.30pm, the high tea serves up a selection of sweet and savoury treats, inspired by the whimsical world of Oz, accompanied by an Elphaba Fizz cocktail. Savoury items will include:

  • ‘I Feel Wicked’ hot smoked salmon sliders with desiree potatoes and a vibrant rosella and caper tartare
  • ‘Great Gillikin Forest’ mushroom croquettes
  • Finger sandwiches of chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, pickled jalapeno and ‘magic’ black olive dust
  • ‘Chistery’s cauliflower and aged-cheddar tartlets with pickled cauliflower and walnuts

A decadent assortment of sweets will follow, such as:

  • ‘Popular’ pistachio and raspberry petit gateaux – pistachio blondie, raspberry coulis and 57% dark Callebaut chocolate mousse
  • ‘Emerald City’ lime and coconut delight – lime genoise sponge, coconut and calamansi custard
  • A ‘wickedly’ dark chocolate and raspberry panna cotta
  • ‘Oz-mopolitan’ orange cheesecake – almond sable, orange cream, and Cointreau brûlée
  • Home-made scones flavoured with vanilla or apricot and white chocolate, served with jam and freshly whipped cream

Just a hop, skip, and a jump away from WICKED’s Melbourne home, the Regent Theatre, guests can turn a night out into a night away, with the ‘Green with Envy’ accommodation package. The overnight stay will offer guests a guaranteed Deluxe Room upgrade at time of check-in, two A-reserve tickets to WICKED, an official musical programme to take home and late check-out at 2pm.

For pre-theatre sustenance, The Westin Melbourne’s Allegro Restaurant will continue to offer its seasonal ($69 per person) pre-theatre menu, available from 5 – 7pm, Wednesday – Saturday, and to honour the arrival of WICKED, Food & Beverage Manager, Eloise Kerr and team have concocted a new cocktail menu of ‘Popular Potions’ to accompany the menu:

  • Popular – a punchy mix of Passoa, vanilla vodka, passion fruit and Prosecco
  • Wicked Mule – tantalising tequila, lime juice, ginger beer and agave
  • Elphaba Fizz – blue Curacao, fresh orange juice and Prosecco
  • Dancing Through Life – a magical mocktail of lime juice, lychee juice, cranberry juice, rose cordial, soda water
  • No One Mourns The Wicked – a bewitching mix of black Galliano, Chambord and Cointreau

This limited-time cocktail menu will also be available to sip on pre and post-show in the Lobby Lounge bar from 22 April, so patrons can celebrate and raise a glass to the arrival of one of the world’s favourite musicals.

For more and to get tickets, see more about Wicked here

Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show in 2024

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Updated: 28/04/2026

I’m just touching base as the world-renowned Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show opens its doors next Wednesday, March 20th. With a jam-packed five-day program from Wednesday, March 20th until Sunday, March 24th, there’ll be something for every flower-lover and plant connoisseur.

Key favourites such as the Show Gardens Competition and High Tea sessions return alongside exciting new activities including the inaugural Twilight Tapas to accompany Friday night’s ever-popular Gardens by Twilight. Dozens of breathtaking horticultural designs will ignite visitors’ senses over the program, accented by enchanting works from the country’s (and world’s) best garden and floral experts.Hailing from Sweden, newcomers to the Show Garden competition, Annika Zetterman and Kajsa Bjorne, will bring their international flair alongside returning global veteran designers Peter Donegan from Ireland and Koji Ninomiya from Japan. Closer to home, in collaboration with the Wurundjeri Council, attendees are invited into the Indigenous Show Garden for an immersive experience that reflects the rich connection between the land and its custodians.Please find media release linked HERE and event imagery from the incredible 2023 show linked HERE.EVENT DETAILS

  • Location: Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton GardensTickets: On sale now from melbflowershow.com.auDates & Times:Wednesday 20th March: 9:00am – 5:00pmThursday 21st March: 9:00am – 5:00pmFriday 22nd March (Gardens by Twilight): 9:00am – 9:00pmSaturday 23rd March: 9:00am – 5:00pmSunday 24th March: 9:00am – 5:00pm

Drive a racing car this Melbourne Grand Prix

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Posted: 16/03/2024

In a thrilling celebration of its partnership with the McLaren Formula 1 Racing Team, Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey is set to ignite the streets of Melbourne with an exclusive and exhilarating experience. From Friday 22 to Sunday 24 March, ‘Jack’s Rides’ will provide fans with the opportunity to take a complimentary adrenaline-fueled drive in a pair of luxury supercars, creating an unforgettable fusion of speed, luxury, and excitement.

The heart-pumping action will commence from the city to South Melbourne and back, catering to both the fortunate ticket holders immersing themselves at Albert Park and enthusiasts seeking to revel in the electrifying energy of the circuit off-track.

Enthusiasts looking to make a grand entrance on race day can book a ride from 12:00 pm each day. The sleek supercars will whisk fans in pairs from the Next Hotel on Little Collins Street, at the core of the city, to the iconic Golden Gate Hotel in South Melbourne – just a stone’s throw away from the Albert Park entrance.

For those eager to extend the thrill into the night, an option to add an electrifying evening ride will be available until 10:00 pm each night. Fans can choose to rev their engines towards popular hotspots like George on Collins or the city’s largest rooftop bar, Good Heavens, from the Golden Gate Hotel.

To secure a ride, fans can register their names with the Jack’s Host at the entrance of the designated venues. As an added treat, each ride will culminate with a complimentary Jack Daniel’s cocktail waiting at the finish line, ensuring a fitting finale to the adrenaline-filled journey.

But that’s not all! Each pair of passengers will have the unique opportunity to communicate with each other through on-board headsets, simulating the immersive experience of being in a real racing car.

Expressing his excitement about bringing the thrill of the race track to Melbourne, Tom Rogers, Senior Brand Manager at Jack Daniel’s Australia, remarked, “Our partnership with the McLaren Formula 1 Racing Team aims to provide fans with unique opportunities to celebrate the best in team sport. By offering rides in some of the most exclusive supercars in Australia, we are thrilled to give fans the chance to not only see but also feel firsthand the thrill of being part of the pinnacle of racing.”

In addition to the Jack’s Rides: Luxury Supercars Experience, Jack Daniel’s will further delight fans with a series of venue takeovers at Melbourne’s popular hotspots over the race weekend. The Next Hotel, George on Collins, Good Heavens, and Golden Gate Hotel are among the venues set to transform into hubs of excitement, offering fans an unforgettable experience beyond the racetrack.

Get ready to buckle up and savor the fusion of speed, luxury, and thrill as Jack Daniel’s brings the adrenaline of Formula 1 racing to the vibrant streets of Melbourne!

Scenic dining in Australia

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Updated: 28/04/2026

Australia’s culinary scene is as diverse as its landscapes, offering not just exceptional menus, but also breathtaking views and iconic locations. Whether you are a food enthusiast or an avid traveller, these destinations provide a window into the country’s unparalleled beauty.

  1. Magill Estate Restaurant

Location: 78 Penfold Road, Adelaide SA 5072

Highlights: Nestled in the beautiful Adelaide foothills, Magill Estate Restaurant combines modern dining with stunning scenery. Enjoy contemporary dishes and an impressive wine selection amid breathtaking views that make every meal memorable.

  1. Restaurant Botanic

Location: Plane Tree Dr, Adelaide SA 5000

Highlights: Situated within the picturesque 51-hectare Adelaide Botanic Garden, Restaurant Botanic offers a dining experience that evolves with the seasons. Chef Justin James crafts a menu to engage all your senses, ensuring a relaxed four-hour culinary adventure.

  1. Bennelong

Location: Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000

Highlights: Dine with spectacular views of Sydney Harbour and the city at the iconic Sydney Opera House. The menu celebrates Australian cuisine with elegant meals crafted from top-quality local ingredients.

  1. Aria Restaurant

Location: 1 Macquarie Street, Sydney

Highlights: Aria boasts stunning views of Sydney’s landmarks paired with a versatile menu. Whether opting for a full degustation or a selection of dishes, the best of Australian ingredients are showcased in every bite.

  1. HER Rooftop

Location: 270 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000

Highlights: An open-air restaurant in Melbourne, Her Rooftop offers Thai-inspired barbeque cuisine ideal for sharing. With its playful decor and panoramic city views, it provides the perfect backdrop for enjoying great food, wine, and cocktails.

  1. SORA

Location: L9/89 Pirie St, Adelaide SA 5000

Highlights: A rooftop bar and restaurant that blends Asian and Western flavors, SORA is led by Executive Chef Adam Liston. It combines stunning city vistas with diverse dishes and a lively atmosphere, making it a fusion of dining and entertainment.

Each venue offers not just a feast for the palate but also for the eyes, making them must-visit destinations for those seeking to explore Australia’s top dining experiences against a landscape of natural and urban beauty.

Bar’d Work Sydney is a new kind of theatre

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Updated: 28/04/2026

Australia’s favourite Shakespeare troupe, Bar’d Work, is thrilled to announce its return to the vibrant pub scene with “Much Ado About Nothing”, set to light up the Shakesbeer Sessions once again. Delving into the heart of Shakespeare’s comedic brilliance, this show pits the sharp-tongued Beatrice against the wily Benedick in a verbal duel that is as hilarious as it is timeless.

Set in the convivial atmosphere of Sydney’s most iconic pubs, Bar’d Work invites audiences to experience a side of Shakespeare that’s rarely seen in traditional theatre settings. The company’s rendition of “Much Ado About Nothing” promises a whirlwind of romance, intrigue, and laughter, engaging audiences in a way that only live theatre—in the most unexpected of venues—can.

Director and creator Chris Huntly-Turner makes it clear, “The Bar’d is back, taking Sydney pubs by storm, performing Shakespeare the way the Bard himself intended – for the people, in packed out pubs!” It’s a nod to the Elizabethan tradition of staging plays in inn yards, making the Bard’s work accessible and relatable to everyone.

According to Laura Heuston of Theatre Travels, Bar’d Work’s approach has demonstrated that making Shakespeare accessible and entertaining for modern audiences doesn’t require radically altering the text, but rather, adapting the performance style – and the audiences have responded with roaring laughter and enthusiastic participation.

Originating from a moment of inspiration among actors in 2019, Bar’d Work has grown into a beloved staple of the Australian pub scene. Its unique blend of interactive, raucous storytelling has seen the company sell out multiple seasons in Sydney and Melbourne and even take its peculiar brand of Shakespeare on the road, reaching eager audiences across NSW and VIC.

With performances scheduled from 4 to 28 April in a selection of Sydney’s landmark venues—including Public House Petersham, Camperdown Hotel, and The Oaks in Neutral Bay, amongst others—this season is an invitation to rediscover the joy of Shakespeare’s works in a fresh, engaging, and undeniably fun setting. Bar’d Work’s Much Ado About Nothing is more than just a play; it’s an experience that promises to leave audiences in stitches and thirsty for more.

Tickets: Tickets for all performances can be purchased online at bardwork.com or by calling 0435782702

Ticket pricing: Pre-sale – $30, door sale – $35

Sydney Philharmonia does Elijah this season

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Updated: 28/04/2026

Sydney Philharmonia Choirs is delighted to announce a monumental performance of Felix Mendelssohn’s Elijah, featuring the internationally renowned operatic baritone, Teddy Tahu Rhodes, in the lead role. This singular event, scheduled for 7pm on Saturday, May 18, at the iconic Sydney Opera House Concert Hall, promises to be an unforgettable evening of music and drama. Under the direction of the esteemed Brett Weymark, audiences will experience the old testament tale of Elijah, brought to life through Mendelssohn’s profound musical composition.

At the heart of this performance is Teddy Tahu Rhodes, whose voice has captivated audiences across the globe for its “velvet like richness” and “great resonance,” aspects that have earned him accolades including the ARIA, Helpmann, and Limelight awards. Artistic Director Brett Weymark expressed his enthusiasm, noting that for the role of Elijah, “only one name comes to mind – Teddy Tahu Rhodes.” This performance not only showcases Rhodes’ magnificent talent but also embodies the grandeur of 19th-century music-making, enriched with the emotional depth and humanity that Mendelssohn embedded in his work.

Elijah remains a masterpiece, celebrated for its penetrating exploration of human determination and faith, played out through its captivating orchestration and choral arrangements. This production by the Sydney Philharmonia Choirs, employing the powerful combination of a 400-voice Festival Chorus and a cast of exceptional soloists, is designed to mesmerize the audience with every note and emotion conveyed.

Beyond the enthralling music, this event is a unique opportunity to witness a cast of established and emerging talents, including Celeste Lazarenko, Sian Sharp, Andrew Goodwin, and a talented octet from Pacific Opera. This mix of experience and fresh enthusiasm promises to deliver an electrifying performance that will resonate with audiences long after the curtain falls.

Tickets are available starting at $45, with a concession price of $40, and a special offer of $30 tickets for individuals aged 30 years and under. This performance is a highlight of the Sydney Philharmonia Choirs’ 2024 Concert Season, which features an array of not-to-be-missed musical experiences. To secure your place at this historic event, and for more information about the 2024 season, visit sydneyphilharmonia.com.au/concerts/2024season/elijah/.

In an era eager for live, profound artistic experiences, Mendelssohn’s Elijah promises to be a beacon of cultural enrichment and pure enjoyment. Do not miss the chance to witness Teddy Tahu Rhodes in a performance that defines not just the power of music, but the enduring allure of storytelling through song.

Summer lunches while you can at Johnny’s Green Room

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Posted: 15/03/2024

As summer unfurls its final golden rays, Johnny’s Green Room adds yet another charm to its rooftop allure. Between the breezy hours of 1PM and 3PM on weekdays, this haven offers an enticing invitation to indulge in the quintessentially Italian delight of Pucce.

These sumptuous bread pockets, brimming with seasonal freshness, echo the soul of Salento’s street food traditions. Crafted under the visionary guidance of Culinary Director Karen Martini, the menu promises a tantalising trio of variations.

Whether it’s the crunch of fried local calamari contrasted with the zest of fresh lemon, the creamy dreaminess of buffalo mozzarella paired with heirloom tomatoes, or the rich tapestry of flavours married in the Mr. Canubi Mortadella option, each Puccia is a carefully curated symphony of taste. Encouraging the spirit of sharing, why not seize this culinary adventure with a colleague? After all, delights doubled are delights doubled.

Limbo The Return: a highlight of Sydney theatre

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Updated: 28/04/2026

Welcome to a circus spectacle of otherworldly proportions, “LIMBO The Return” is the exhilarating new headline show captivating audiences at The Grand Electric, the hottest venue in town. This acclaimed production marries the thrilling essence of live circus, cabaret, and acrobatics with the heart-pounding live music composed by New York’s own Jank master, Sxip Shirey. Set in a realm delicately balanced between heaven and hell, “LIMBO The Return” showcases an international ensemble of top-tier circus performers and musicians, creating an experience that transcends the ordinary.

Having spellbound crowds in Spiegeltents across Newcastle and Adelaide, “LIMBO The Return” now sets its sights on Sydney for its headline season. The show has been embraced with open arms, drawing in audiences eager to witness its jaw-dropping, fire-breathing, and gravity-defying acts. Critics, too, have been fervently enthusiastic, with Upside Adelaide awarding the show a five-star review, lauding it as “a whirlwind of excitement and wonder… that will leave you wanting more.” Elsewhere, See Do Eat Review echoed this acclaim in their own five-star praise, highlighting the band as “musical geniuses” and heralding the show as their “favourite show of the Fringe”.

More than a decade ago, the original LIMBO production propelled its creators, Strut & Fret, onto the global stage. After selling out at the Sydney Festival, it embarked on an international tour gracing stages from Brussels to Bogota. The show even captivated Madonna, who attended twice during its London season. Its follow-up, “LIMBO Unhinged,” enjoyed a hugely successful and critically acclaimed run at the Sydney Opera House, before venturing on its own international tour.

“LIMBO The Return” marks the second headline offering from Strut & Fret at The Grand Electric in Surry Hills, following on from the unprecedented success of their smash hit, “Blanc de Blanc Encore,” which debuted in January 2023. Both shows, devised and directed by Strut & Fret’s Creative Director Scott Maidment, are poised to enchant Sydney audiences yet again. Maidment expresses his anticipation for the show’s return, “We’ve been blown away by the response from Sydney audiences at The Grand Electric, and I know they are going to absolutely love returning to the world of LIMBO.”

One of the standout features of “LIMBO The Return” is its vibrant live music. With a vast array of instruments and a genre-defying mix of influences, Maidment describes the musical experience as akin to “a New Orleans brass band meets the Beastie Boys on the way through Berlin, looking for a house party.”

“LIMBO The Return” opens on Wednesday 22nd May, promising an unforgettable spectacle.

From: Wednesday 22 May
Venue: The Grand Electric, 199 Cleveland St, Surry Hills
Price: Tickets from $55
Tickets at LIMBOTHERETURN.COM
Times: Wed & Thu 7.30pm, Fri 7.00pm & 9.00pm, Sat 5.00pm & 7.30pm, Sun 5.30pm
Restrictions: 15+

Review: Wicked at the Regent Theatre Melbourne

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Posted: 14/03/2024

In an era where the fantastical often mirrors the stark realities of our world, Wicked, the beloved musical, draws thousands into its emerald allure yet again, proving its timeless relevance and enchanting allure. Its latest revival in Melbourne, commemorating the 20th anniversary of its Broadway debut, prompts the perennial question: Does Wicked continue to cast its spell over audiences, or is its magic waning?

From the moment you step into the opulent ambiance of the Regent Theatre, it’s clear that Wicked hasn’t lost an iota of its charm or vibrancy. The production, with its slick costumes, precise choreography, and larger-than-life sets, remains a testament to the creative ingenuity behind this spellbinding musical. Yet, it’s not the spectacle alone that keeps audiences riveted; it’s the effervescent energy and unparalleled talent of the cast that breathe new life into the familiar tale.

Courtney Monsma’s portrayal of Glinda is nothing short of spectacular, infusing the character with a delightful mix of humor, warmth, and depth. Her interaction with Sheridan Adams’ Elphaba, whose vocal prowess and emotional range anchor the show, makes for a compelling narrative of friendship, rivalry, and redemption. Together, their performances not only captivate but also elevate the material, making every note of “Defying Gravity” resonate with a fresh sense of urgency and inspiration.

While the production eloquently showcases the dazzling spectacle that fans expect, it’s the underlying themes of social justice, acceptance, and the consequences of ambition that give Wicked its lasting appeal. The musical deftly navigates these complex issues, making it as much a reflection on contemporary societal dilemmas as a fantastical escape. This thematic depth, coupled with stellar performances and a visually stunning production, ensures that Wicked remains not just relevant but essential viewing.

As Wicked continues its run at the Regent Theatre, it’s evident that the magic of this allegorical tale has not diminished over time. If anything, it has gained new dimensions, resonating with audiences who find in its songs and stories a mirror to their own experiences and struggles. In the end, Wicked is more than a musical—it’s a phenomenon that, like the best of tales, only grows richer with time.

Venue Regent Theatre, Melbourne
Season From 2 March
Performance Times Wed-Sat 7.30pm, Matinees Wed 1pm, Sat 2pm, Sun 1pm & 6:30pm
Prices: From $79.00 (transaction fees apply)
Bookings: ticketek.com.au or phone 1300 111 011

How to overcome driving anxiety

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Updated: 28/04/2026

Are you one of the many Australians feeling the pangs of anxiety behind the wheel? Surveys reveal that up to 84% of individuals in Australia experience anxiety while driving. In Melbourne, studies from Monash University project that only half of the eligible young population will obtain their driver’s license by 2025, marking a significant shift in driving trends. Since 2000, the rates of driver’s licenses have been on a decline in Victoria, reflecting a changing landscape of mobility and personal choices.

Understanding the Roadblocks

Various reasons contribute to the reluctance to learn driving, ranging from resource constraints and mental health challenges to self-doubt and physical disabilities. In response to these challenges, Toyota Australia has initiated the Find Your Drive program. This groundbreaking initiative enlists the expertise of driving instructors and psychologists to guide four individuals through adversity and empower them to learn driving. The program has come to life through a compelling online content series featuring three captivating documentaries, offering an intimate look into the transformative journey of the participants. You can experience these empowering stories right here.

Navigating the Path Forward

To support those hesitant about obtaining their driver’s license, psychologist and expert on driver anxiety, Merryn Snare has outlined three effective strategies to overcome these obstacles:

  1. Identify Your “Self Talk”: It’s crucial to recognise and understand the internal dialogue that influences our decision-making process. Seeking the guidance of a psychologist can aid in identifying the origins of this self-talk, particularly anxious thinking and the narratives we construct to justify not pursuing a driver’s license.
  2. Seek Help to Change Your Thinking: Recognising the impact of limiting thought patterns on our quality of life is the first step. Professional support can help individuals navigate through these challenges, leveraging the proven concept of neuroplasticity to reframe their thinking and embrace a positive mindset.
  3. Assess Your Logistical Roadblocks: For those considering practical factors such as convenience and economic considerations, evaluating the benefits of having a driver’s license, even if not immediately essential, can open doors to greater opportunities and enhance the quality of life in the future.

Join the Movement

For more information on the impactful Find Your Drive program, explore the comprehensive media release and captivating images of the campaign. Additionally, delve into further insights through a headshot of Merryn, the driving force behind these empowering strategies.

Toyota invites you to embark on this transformative journey and discover the empowering possibilities that await.

For a taste of what this looks like, head to the Toyota website

Unleash the Power Within

By embracing these proactive steps, individuals can conquer their driving anxieties and embark on a path of empowerment and freedom. Let’s pave the way to a future where confidence behind the wheel knows no bounds.

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