Tag: sydney

Bintang Bro brings authentic Indonesian flavours to the streets of Sydney

bintang bro sydney

Located in the Darling Square food court is some of the best Indonesian on offer in Sydney. Bintang Bro is a hidden gem offering authentic tastes straight from the streets of Indonesia to our stomachs. At Bintang Bro you can find lunchtime favourites like burgers, onion rings and wraps, but all with an Indonesian twist. We recommend diving fully in though and getting the more traditional menu items, like the BBQ skewers, prepared grill shack style, and the Indonesian flame grilled chicken that comes with tasty sides like spiced tempeh and tofu. One stand out that you can find on many of the dishes is the house made sambal. When preparing the chilli, spice, herb and aromatic mix, the staff wear gloves and goggles, because this is not for the feint of heart… or should we say tongues. Delicious spiciness underpins many of their dishes (definitely try the spicy smashed chicken, Ayem Geprek!), but fear not, everything comes in an original non-spicy version too! This spot has something for everyone and every tastebud, and if you’re not drinking, try some Indonesian beverages like iced Jasmine tea, but if you are drinking, let’s just say a cold beer from Batch Brewing which is conveniently located right next door to Bintang Bro in Darling Square goes down perfectly.

Sofia Cocktail Lounge is the chicest place in Surry Hills

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We’re sure you’ve heard of Sofia on Cleveland after it made waves on the culinary scene at launch, but did you know the restaurant team have now opened a cocktail lounge too? Sofia Cocktail Lounge is located within Sofia on Cleveland, above Bar Cleveland, and this space is without a doubt the chicest in Surry Hills. From the decor, roaring fireplace, decadent cocktails and access to the enviable Sofia food menu, we’re almost loathe to give away the details of our new favourite hotspot. Open until late (in fact there’s no official closing time, as long as you’re drinking, they’ll stay open), Sofia’s feels better than home. With lush velvet couches, thick curtains, comfortable armchairs, plush carpets and the toasty fireplace, these exposed brick walls transport you to another era. Not an era specifically vintage, for the decor is far too sophisticated for that, but one where drinking in a bar didn’t involve precariously balancing on a stool while you shout to be heard. This is a place to have deep conversations and sample and snack your way through the menu over a number of hours. Plenty is unmissable here, but the cocktails are definitely one of the special things. Besides the classics, Sofia’s has a collection selected with care and inspiration. The Noah’s Arc for example is modelled after dessert favourite Turkish Delight, and is a fragrant, rosy tipple. While on the hard hitting end, the Saz Jazz is a play on a Sazerac, but with the addition of ricotta washed Shiraz gin and… Read More

You can’t miss Champagne Moments at Shell House this winter

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If you’re looking for somewhere to escape the winter blue, look no further than the palazzo-style spaces in Shell House, one of Sydney’s chicest bars and eateries. Teaming up with Perrier Jouët Champagne, Shell House is launching a six-week program of interactive events showcasing music, entertainment, culture, dining and drinking, aptly named Champagne Moments. With a range of events taking place within Shell House, there’s something to suit every vibe: While some events require only a reservation (although get in early, Shell House is often booked out!), other high end events are ticketed and have limited spots. A night with the James Morrison Quartet A true virtuoso, Morrison’s talents extend beyond the trumpet as he skilfully masters the piano, all brass instruments, and double bass. The event takes place across both the Clocktower Bar and the Dining Room. Champagne and canapés on arrival in the Clocktower Bar, accompanied by live music from The Menzies Jazz Trio. Guests will then move into the Dining Room for a special three-course menu crafted by Culinary Director Joel Bickford and Head Chef Aaron Ward with a paired wine option selected by Alex Kirkwood. The evening culminates as James Morrison and his exceptional jazz ensemble take to the stage for 2 x 50 sets of unforgettable live jazz. Date: Tuesday 27th June Time: 6:30pm Price: $225 (Glass of Perrier Jouët, canapés on arrival + 3 course menu + entertainment) Wet, Cold & Delicious #2 – Tuna Dinner with John Susman and Narito Ishii Beginning in the Clocktower Bar with a… Read More

Parisi is the hidden healthy lunch spot you need to visit in Barangaroo

parisi barangaroo

If you’re a city worker who falls into the Macca’s trap a little too often, you need to get yourself down to Barangaroo and discover the hidden gem that is Parisi. The cafe is located at the base of International Tower One right in the heart of Barangaroo, so if you’re not working in the building you could easily miss it. But look out for the sign, step inside and be transported into a world of healthy paninis, fresh salads, made to order juices and smoothies and delicious treats, all featuring originality and seasonality as key ingredients. This is healthy eating and lunch at it’s finest. When we say you won’t find fruit salads this diverse, or smoothies that inventive, we mean it! The reason for this focus on freshness and quality, is the team behind the cafe, Parisi Australia. Dating back to 1954, the team behind this fresh produce wholesaler service some of the best cafes (including their own) and restaurants in Australia. Their belief in offering quality products, ready to eat meals, gifting, catering and growing partnerships with local growers and farmers Australia wide, has been their bread and butter since the beginning. You can order groceries directly from them online, or visit their cafe in Barangaroo or Sydney Fish Market. Love the actual plates and dishes you see on the menu? Same. We found some similar!

Meet Jane: Sydney’s place for the best happy hour

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Foodies of Sydney, brace yourselves for the ultimate Happy Hour experience! Starting from May 1st, Jane founder and executive chef, Tristan Rosier, brings to you “Jane – Sydney’s Best Happy Hour” – a culinary and beverage experience unlike anything before. Running between 5pm and 6pm Monday to Friday, and with extended hours of 4pm to 6pm on weekends, Jane’s Happy Hour boasts an array of sensational snacks under $15.00 and drinks starting at just $6.00. And with the Covid-safe measures in place, you can enjoy all these delights in a beautiful, elegantly-lit atmosphere. One of the key selling points of Jane’s Happy Hour is the award-winning RHUBI Mistelle, a handcrafted rhubarb aperitif from Victoria that serves as the foundation of some of the most extraordinary cocktails on the menu. The signature drink, The Australiano, priced at just $6.00, is a popular favourite created with RHUBI Mistelle, Regal Rouge vermouth, bitter citrus, and mandarin. The drinks list also includes other imaginative cocktails, such as White Possum G&Ts, RHUBI and Soda, chilled red wine, VB, and the in-house special, Jane Martini. In addition to the remarkable drinks menu, Jane’s team of chefs serve up the perfect pairing of locally sourced, Australian inspired snacks or larger share dishes with highlights set to include Sydney Rock Oysters, Duck Croquettes, marinated Port Lincoln sardines with kingfish Nduja, Lamb Dumplings and the famously delicious Kangaroo Tartare. Priced between $2.00 and $15.00, the snacks have been curated to showcase a range of flavours from all over the region. For enthusiasts seeking the… Read More

Why you need to see La Boheme – we speak to lead male singer Atalla Ayan

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Opera Australia is putting on La Boheme this season at the Sydney Opera House, as part of their year-long celebration of the world famous Sydney Opera House’s 50th birthday this year in 2023. Ahead of the show wrapping-up and to remind you that yes, you do need to see it before it leaves the stage, we had a chat to its lead tenor, Atalla Ayan, opera singing extraordinaire who is taking on the role of Rodolfo for Opera Australia in this production on at the Sydney Opera House until 11 March 2023. How exciting is it for you to be taking it on the role of Rodolfo with Opera Australia?  Singing Rodolfo means a lot to me – it was the very first role I’ve sang on stage professionally and it is certainly very close to my heart. Singing Rodolfo means experiencing the joy of singing and the passion for living every moment as the last one. Are you excited to be singing in the Opera House? I just love singing in Sydney! People are the nicest, the House is great to sing in and colleagues are the best. It is a pleasure and a true gift for me singing in the magnificent Sydney Opera House! And an honour, really. Also, I’ve got to make a point: the audience is just amazing! H emotionally invested do you have to be in your character. How do you do it?  Singing La Boheme taught me something beautiful about life: The passion and the joy of living every moment, every second as… Read More

Over 40 parties to get into this Sydney World Pride 2023

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From 17 February – 5 March to celebrate Sydney WorldPride 2023, there are over 40 new parties and events to get your gay on. They’re saying there’s an event to suit everyone with drag brunches, long lunches, dog shows and rooftop parties, plus Merivale’s inaugural Pride Plane experience, so we’ve done some digging and pulled out some favourites, listed below – there are too many options, though to list them all! Rest assured, if you’re used to Sydney’s renowned Mardi Gras celebrations, the oldies will still be back, like Vic on the Pardi Gras (at Vic on the Park Hotel, Marrickville), The Beresford Dog Show and Drag Brunches taking place across The Beresford, Coogee Rooftop, Queen Chow Enmore, ivy Pool Club and The Paddington. DRAG GALA AT TARONGA ZOO This year, as part of WorldPride, the team have launched the inaugural Drag Gala performance, featuring performances from the one and only Karen from Finance alongside several  best, iconic and most sought-after drag superstars: KITA MEAN, SPANKIE JACKZON & CARLA FROM BANKSTOWN  Highlighting the diverse range of talent, disciplines and backgrounds that the Down Under drag scene offers, the Drag Gala will be a fresh new format, with group acts, duos and solos. The Drag Gala will be hosted by the queen of corporate herself, Karen From Finance, who recently placed as one of the top four finalists in season one of RuPaul’s Drag Race Down Under, which took to international airways in May 2021. Get tickets here DRAG HAUS WORLD PRIDE 2023 With 15+ Queens in the mix, and 30+ performances, this supersized Drag Haus will be a true showing of drag excellence for… Read More

Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge this Valentine’s Day

Two men kissing atop Sydney Harbour Bridge

If you’re sharing your life with that special someone, take it to the next level – kind of literally! – this February with a climb up the world famous Sydney Harbour Bridge! The Bridge has become known for great initiatives and special experiences for Sydney locals and visitors from all over the world and this is the latest. Prove how sky-high your love is! The opportunity to celebrate love at new heights with a Valentine’s Day picnic experience like no other will see you ascend the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and bask in the stunning views with your significant other. After your climb, enjoy a lavish picnic at a picturesque location while admiring the magnificent Bridge you just scaled. The luxury menu features a sumptuous graze board, beautifully decorated picnic table, and romantic music, among other delightful surprises. For every Climb, Graze & Gaze purchase, you’ll make a difference by providing 10 meals to those in need, through our partnership with OzHarvest. Starting from $846, this one-of-a-kind experience is the perfect way to make this Valentine’s Day unforgettable. Book now at the Bridge Climb website and make a difference while creating lasting memories.

Where to go in Sydney for true blue Aussie food

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Whether you’re hosting a guest from overseas or just feel like embracing Australiana style food, we’ve found the best spot to spend your time: The Australian Heritage Hotel. Situated in the heart of The Rocks, Sydney, this heritage listed site ticks all the boxes of modern Australian vibes. Pub? Tick. Endless choice of local craft beers? Tick. Rooftop? Tick. Unique menu of classic with a twist? Tick. Good vibes? Tick tick. The venue has indoor and outdoor seating and is the perfect place to spend a summer evening admiring the wonderful city that is Sydney. Their craft beer fridge is very well stocked with latest releases and over 130 stand out brews, they’re dog friendly at street level and they also host pub games during the week for a bit of fun. Perhaps the real stand out is the menu though. Their signature pizza, the Coat of Arms, boasts both emu and kangaroo and is topped with a tasty lemon myrtle mayo. If that’s not enough native animals for you, there is also a crocodile pizza! The kitchen strives to use native plants and peppers to flavour the food, while also staying true to the classic pub favourites (yes, there is a chicken schnitty). If you’re after something on the healthier side, the salmon fillet is divine and there are plenty of salads to choose from. There’s truly something for everyone, especially the dessert which features a lamington ice cream sandwich and smashed pavolva (shhh, don’t tell New Zealand). Open 7 days and 7 nights,… Read More

World Pride exhibition in Sydney with The Huxleys and an installation by Paul Yore

The Huxleys drag performers

Gay Sydney and The Huxleys are almost synonymous. Their glitter, their glam and their avant garde approach to drag, art and immersive exhibitionism is seconded by very few around the world. And this year, the Huxleys duo, artist Paul Yore and other contemporaries will put on a show worthy of World Pride in Sydney for the millions of punters from across the globe. MORE: Kylie Minogue will headline World Pride Sydney In 2024, Carriageworks in Eveleigh Sydney, one of Australia’s most significant contemporary multi-arts organisations, today announced a dynamic program spanning visual arts and live performance to be presented as part of Sydney Festival 2023. Presented from 5 January – 5 March 2023, a major new exhibition Bloodlines by Melbourne-based collaborative duo The Huxleys will honour legendary queer artists lost to the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Utilising the artists’ skills in costume design, performance and photography, the exhibition will include large-scale photographic works, video art and an opening live art party on 4 January. The exhibition will also feature a durational collaborative installation that invites the community to contribute panels to be sewn together into a quilt, reminiscent of the AIDS Memorial Quilts created during the 80s and 90s. Bloodlines is a heartfelt tribute to LGBTQIA+ artists, including Leigh Bowery, Robert Mapplethorpe, Keith Haring and Sylvester, that continue to inspire the practices of The Huxleys and countless artists working today. Artist Paul Yore will present Paul Yore: WORD MADE FLESH, a major immersive installation, from 5 January – 26 February 2023. WORD MADE FLESH is a new… Read More