Alice grew up around Sydney's pub bands, so her friends were all musos, but writing was her thing. She did a degree in Communications (Journalism) at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS).

She worked her way through roles in writing and editing at a range of magazines, including writing travel, lifestyle and food content for the Virgin Australia magazine. She also worked on titles including Entertain Me, Management Today, Weight Watchers Magazine and, eventually, Women’s Health magazine for 10 years.

While working on Women’s Health’s Women in Sport campaign, she interviewed athletes daily, and became obsessed with spectator sport – especially women’s sport. So when she decided it was time to spread her wings and learn new things, this sporting focus led her to move into a marketing and content role for NRL Touch Football, and eventually a similar role at gym company One Playground.

But Alice loves writing and editing most, so she was thrilled to return to media, to Time Out, where she gets a chance to tell the world what she loves about Sydney, Melbourne and beyond. She adores Sydney, the diverse place she's always called home – from the scruffy music venues of her childhood, like The Bridge Hotel, to her new favourites, such as Lazybones, as well as all the incredible restaurants, beaches, bushwalks (and sporting events!) in between. Yet she also spends a lot of time in Melbourne, checking out its incredible arts scene, restaurants, bars and hotels.

To read a Q&A with Alice, click here.

Alice Ellis

Alice Ellis

Editor in Chief, Sydney, Melbourne, Australia

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Articles (174)

The 45 best things to do in Australia

The 45 best things to do in Australia

Planning a trip Down Under? You've come to the right place. For almost six decades, Time Out has been inspiring people to get off the couch and discover the world's best experiences – and Australia is packed with them. Sure, you know the land Down Under for its pristine beaches and laid-back culture, but there's so much more to do beyond kissing koalas and yelling ‘g’day mate’. To help you plan the ultimate trip, our team (including Australian Editor Melissa Woodley) have curated the ultimate Aussie bucket list. It covers must-see attractions, experiences, events and landmarks across the country, tried and tested by our team. So, whether you’re chasing art and nightlife in the city, spotting native wildlife on secluded beaches or hiking in remote national parks, here's your guide to the best things to do in Australia. Editor's favourite things to do in Australia: ⭐ Best city landmark: BridgeClimb, NSW đŸ–Œïž Best for culture: MONA, TAS đŸ· Best food + drink: Adelaide Central Market, SA 🌊 Best outdoor adventure: Whitehaven Beach, QLD đŸżïž Best wildlife encounter: Rottnest Island, WA Jump to list: Landmarks | Outdoor Adventures | Culture | Food & Drink | Wildlife 🇩đŸ‡ș The best tourist attractions in Australia🌊 The best beaches in Australia
The best steak restaurants in Sydney right now

The best steak restaurants in Sydney right now

What makes a great steak? Well, these days, the benchmark of a good steak is no longer tenderness alone. Now, restaurants are more concerned with flavour being at the forefront. Flavour derived from dry-ageing, exploration of lesser-known cuts, and of course, how and where the meat was raised. It’s not uncommon for chefs to swap their whites for farm gear in order to get to know their produce, as well as the land that it comes from.  More than anything, Sydney's great steakhouses are highlighting the old-world ritual of a steak dinner, elevating the craft from a quick sizzle and a bucket of peppercorns, to a practice of respect for both the diner, and the beast. From the prime ribs to the charcoal grilled and the extremely dry-aged, Time Out's local food writers have picked out the best red meat Sydney has to offer. Clear your schedule, loosen your belt and get ready for a delicious iron hit. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Keen to read on? Here's what else you might like: Hungry for more? These are the best restaurants in Sydney right now Feel like a drink and snack? Get around the coolest wine bars in town here.
Things to do in Melbourne this week

Things to do in Melbourne this week

Did you have a good long weekend? Already looking forward to the next one? Well the weather is fine (for now, anyway), so we reckon it's a good time to head up – to one of Melbourne's many spectacular rooftop bars. Here's our guide to Melbourne's very best rooftop bars.  Otherwise, head to the Yarra for a drink at Afloat – they're going Greek this season. It's spring, which means blossoms are blossoming – these are the best places to see springtime blooms in Victoria. Prefer indoor fun? Step inside one at ACMI, where acclaimed Chinese artist Feng Mengbo transforms modern Chinese history into a surreal, interactive adventure via Long March Restart. If you're a theatre and musical buff, make sure you check out A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical, which spans the legendary singer-songwriter's career. With stellar performances, slick production elements and that extensive setlist of hits, it's a certified crowd-pleaser. When in doubt, though, you can always rely on our catch-all lists of Melbourne's best bars, restaurants, museums, parks and galleries, or consult our bucket list of the best things to do in Melbourne before you die.   Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. Counting down to Friday? Here's our guide to all the fun things happening in Melbourne this weekend.
The 38 coolest neighbourhoods in the world

The 38 coolest neighbourhoods in the world

This list is from 2024. Read our 2025 ranking or check out our latest ranking for 2026 here. In 2024, what exactly makes a neighbourhood cool? Craft breweries, natty wine bars and street art are well and good, but the world’s best, most exciting and downright fun neighbourhoods are much more than identikit ‘hipster hubs’. They’re places that reflect the very best of their cities – its culture, community spirit, nightlife, food and drink – all condensed in one vibey, walkable district. To create our annual ranking, we went straight to the experts – our global team of on-the-ground writers and editors – and asked them what the coolest neighbourhood in their city is right now, and why. Then we narrowed down the selection and ranked the list using the insight and expertise of Time Out’s global editors, who vetted each neighbourhood against criteria including food, drink, arts, culture, street life, community and one-of-a-kind local flavour. The result? A list that celebrates the most unique and exciting pockets of our cities – and all their quirks. Yes, you’ll find some of those international hallmarks of ‘cool’. But in every neighbourhood on this list there’s something you won’t find anywhere else. Ever been to a photography museum that moonlights as a jazz club? Or a brewery with a library of Russian literature? How about a festival dedicated to fluff? When communities fiercely support and rally around their local businesses, even the most eccentric ideas can become a reality.
The 65 best pubs in Sydney right now

The 65 best pubs in Sydney right now

There's a lot that goes into making a great pub. They need to furnish you with an excellent meal and friendly service, and a game of pool or darts doesn't go astray, and we're fans of weekly trivia. On a hot day, it's all about having a welcoming beer garden, and on a Sunday, it's all about a cracking roast. Top-notch drinks are a must, obvs. There are a lot of rock-solid pubs in this city, and these are our picks of the bunch, pulled together by Time Out Sydney's local writers. Cheers! Editor's picks: 🍠 Best for a Sunday roast: The Bat & Ball ☀ Best for a sunny beer garden: Courthouse Hotel đŸœïž Best for a delicious feed: The Dry Dock 🎾 Best for live music: The Duke of Enmore 🔖 Best for mid-week trivia: The Lord Gladstone đŸ» Best for a Sunday jazz : The Old Fitz Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. For something a bit less pubby, a bit higher end, see our picks of the best bars in Sydney. Want more? These are the best steaks in Sydney for $25 and under. Hungry? Check out our ultimate guide to Sydney's best restaurants. 
The best luxury hotels in Sydney right now

The best luxury hotels in Sydney right now

Whether you’re a Sydneysider planning a special-occasion staycation, or a visitor mapping out your first trip to the Emerald City, finding the right hotel in Sydney is a very important task. If you’re looking to book a stay that’s extra indulgent – willing to splash the cash on a high-end experience – choosing the right spot is even more crucial. Luckily for you, we’ve got a team of hotel aficionados who are committed to trying and testing the very best luxury stays in the city, and deciding which ones are worth your hard-earned cash (it’s a tough job, but somebody’s got to do it). Our expert team includes connoisseur of fine things Time Out Sydney Editor Avril Treasure and Sydney-based travel whizz Melissa Woodley (Time Out Australia’s News and Travel Editor). Each hotel has been checked for its luxe credentials by Time Out Sydney's Travel and News Editor (and self-confessed hotel obsessive) Winnie Stubbs. From a celeb-approved harbourside palace (Park Hyatt Sydney) to a stunning beachside stay with a rooftop magnesium pool (Elysium Manly), these are the best luxury hotels in Sydney for a super-special stay. Editor's quick picks: Best for beach lovers: Elysium Manly Best for harbour views: Park Hyatt Sydney  Best for indulgent spa breaks: Capella Sydney Best dog-friendly luxury stay: Pier One Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED:Want more options? Here's
The best spring school holiday activities in Sydney

The best spring school holiday activities in Sydney

Spring has sprung – and, somehow, so have the school holidays. Again. (Seriously, where has 2026 gone?) If you haven’t lined up anything to keep the kids entertained and out of your hair, fear not. We’ve rounded up plenty of things to do across Sydney, from big-ticket shows to fun, free activities the entire family will enjoy. With Daylight Saving Time about to kick in, there’s plenty to do around our Harbour City. Make the most of those longer days with a picnic to see the spring blossoms and jacarandas in bloom, a day spent at any of our beautiful beaches (hello, fish and chips followed by a dripping icy pole), or a visit to the all-new Wild Things Kids’ Festival at the Sydney Opera House, with loads of free events. So, slip-slop-slap on that sunscreen – and your sense of adventure. Let the school holidays begin. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Looking for somewhere affordable to eat out with the kids? Check out our guide to the best cheap eats in Sydney. Or try any of these activities that are absolutely free to do.
The 32 best wine bars in Sydney

The 32 best wine bars in Sydney

No two ways about it, Sydney's wine bar scene is flourishing. Full to the brim. Spilling over. A decade ago, there were only a handful of wine bars. Now? They're all over town. And we're here to happily drink them up. What's more, these slick haunts are also some of the best spots in Sydney to grab a nice dinner with friends.  It makes no difference whether you're a novice or an expert, fancy something natural or classic, old world or new, or whether you want to spend moderately or extravagantly, Time Out Sydney's writers, including Editor Avril Treasure, have curated this list for every palate, at every price point. Bottoms up. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Can't get enough of that boozy stuff? Check out the absolute best bars in Sydney here.
The best cafés in Sydney right now

The best cafés in Sydney right now

Sydneysiders are cafĂ© people. We're constantly on the hunt for the city's best coffee and we love nothing more than donning our finest sport-luxe activewear and catching up with mates on a weekend morning over eggs, fritters and crusty artisan sourdough. So, whether it's a reward for tackling one of Sydney's most beautiful walks, an indulgent hangover fix after a night at one of the city's best bars, or a workday coffee stop, these are the best Sydney cafĂ©s, according to our in-the-know Time Out Sydney writers, including Editor Avril Treasure. We'll have one B&E roll, please.  Editor's picks: 🍳 Best for scrambled eggs: Piña 💚 Best for matcha: Parami đŸ’„ Best for trying a new cafĂ©: Adelaide’s Kitchen đŸ„ž Best for pancakes: Happyfield ☕ Best for on-point coffee: Primary Coffee Roasters đŸ¶ Best for breakfast with your dog: Havenstone Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Is it lunch time? Check out our guide to Sydney's best restaurants right now.
The best restaurants in Sydney right now

The best restaurants in Sydney right now

Here's our list of Time Out's best restaurants in Sydney right now, from hot newcomers to time-honoured institutions, curated by our expert, on-the-ground editors and food writers who eat and drink their way around Sydney, including Time Out Sydney's Editor, Avril Treasure. How did we narrow it down to the very best? When deciding, we considered fun, flavour, creativity, value for money – and 'wow' factor. So yes, of course, you’ll find a fine diner inside the Sydney Opera House here, but you’ll also find neighbourhood pasta, hole-in-the-wall Thai and venues right by the sea. Happy dining, Sydney. Editor's favourite restaurants in Sydney: đŸ’„ Best for something new and hot: Ashe đŸ„‚ Best for a special occasion: Saint Peter 👠 Best for a vibey date night: Bar Copains ☀ Best for a long Sunday lunch: Sean's 🍝 Best for an Italian feast: Fratelli Paradiso đŸ«’ Best for a friends' catch-up: Olympus Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED READs: Still hungry? Check out our guide to the best cheap eats in Sydney. Want more? These are Sydney's best new restaurants and bars.
The 28 best hotels in Sydney right now

The 28 best hotels in Sydney right now

Choosing the best hotel to book in Sydney is a delicate art – whether you’re a visitor experiencing the Emerald City for the very first time or a local on a wintery weekend staycation. With so many options to choose between – from beachside boltholes (like the boutique hotel overlooking Watsons Bay) to a trendy converted brewery with a rooftop pool – it can be tricky to decide which hotel is right for you. At Time Out Sydney, we’ve dedicated a good few years to making that task a little easier – picking out the very best hotels in the city based on location, design creds, facilities and that undefinable something that can take a hotel from good to great. Whether you’re looking for a celeb-approved escape with uninterrupted views of the Opera House, a boutique guethouse by the beach, or an old-school luxury palace that will have you feeling like a princess, our team of writers (including Editor-in-Chief Alice Ellis and Sydney Editor Avril Treasure) have tried and tested the best hotels in Sydney. To confirm that they should make the cut, this list has been carefully edited by self-confessed hotel addict Winnie Stubbs, Travel and News Editor APAC for Time Out. Read on for our definitive guide to the best hotels in Sydney. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, travel inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED: These are the best glamping sites in NSW. These are the best camping sites near Sydney. And these are the be
The best rooftop bars in Sydney

The best rooftop bars in Sydney

We're all about a secret underground dive bar or two – but in a city as beautiful as Sydney, it seems like a damn shame to retreat into the depths for every tipple. From a sundowner by the harbour to a sunny rooftop in the Inner West, our town is awash with sky-high watering holes. So we've rounded up the best spots in the city to sip a cold one under a gorgeous open sky. But drinkers beware: Sydney's rooftop bars play host to some of the most contested seats in the city, so get in early for a spot in the sun.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. For more al fresco drinking try one of Sydney's best beer gardens. Looking for another top-notch watering hole? Check out the best bars in Sydney.

Listings and reviews (167)

Sirena De Sol

Sirena De Sol

5 out of 5 stars
If there’s one place in Australia where the crystal blue, flat sea puts you in mind of the Mediterranean, it’s Hyams Beach. So it’s fitting, then, that this pristine paradise in NSW’s Shoalhaven region is now home to a new Sicily-coded romantic escape.  Sirena De Sol is a romantic mini house designed for two, on the edge of national park and just footsteps from one of Australia’s most special beaches. Hyams Beach was actually named the beach with the ‘World’s Whitest Sand’ by the Guinness World Records – and one of the world’s top 10 beaches a few years ago on travel site the Big 7’s ‘World’s 50 best beaches’ list. This new Hyams Beach property was thoughtfully designed and run by the Airbnb pros who also designed Machinery Shed at Logan Brae Orchard in the Blue Mountains. I’ve stayed at the other property, too, and the owners are masters of detail – from the design to your comfort and amenities, they think of absolutely everything. What I like most about their properties (apart from the heavenly locations) is the stylish decor and premium finishings. At Sirena De Sol, the bathrooms are clad in beautiful terrazzo. The kitchen counter is a rich slab of polished stone with rich marbling, while the splashbacks are crazy-paved. The balcony is tiled in maroon and cream Harlequin-like triangle tiles. The bedding is luxurious – you feel like you’re sleeping on a cloud.  And then there are fun details all over the place – colourful crab and mermaid hangings, giant clam shells on the
The Dining Room

The Dining Room

Sydney is brimming with restaurants and hotels with divine views. But there’s nothing quite like the vista you have from The Dining Room, at the low-rise Park Hyatt Sydney hotel. From your seat, you’re face-to-face with the Sydney Opera House, which sits just across the harbour. You get to admire the House and its shimmering reflection not from above, but from water level. From here, the building feels strangely close and in motion, as if its white sails have just rounded Bennelong Point and are cruising towards you.  Executive chef Tyson Gee and chef de cuisine Dan Parkes form a team that clearly know what they're doing. The Dining Room's view is to die for, and the food is worth living for. The menu evolves with the seasons, and it celebrates the best and freshest produce Australia has to offer. Highlights include a garden pea, green bean and Meredith feta tart, while Vanella stracciatella is paired with bright citrus, crisp witlof and raspberry vinegar. For something more substantial, there’s Cowra lamb with house-made merguez sausage, mushrooms and garden peas, alongside delicately poached Hāpuku with Musset leeks and a silky white wine sauce. Each plate celebrates the freshness, colour and generosity of the season. Dessert brings a delicious dose of nostalgia. Parkes’ pineapple upside-down cake, inspired by the version his mother baked throughout his childhood, is given a grown-up flourish with Red Mill rum and ginger. Warm, familiar and wonderfully comforting, it’s a
Bistro 1828

Bistro 1828

3 out of 5 stars
✍ Time Out Sydney never writes starred restaurant and bar reviews from hosted experiences – Time Out covers restaurant and bar bills, and anonymously reviews, so that readers can trust our critique. Find out more, here.  Sydney’s oldest continuously licensed pub recently expanded, with the Fortune of War opening Bistro 1828 – a dining room that gives this beloved Rocks institution room to stretch its legs. For many years (almost 200!) the Fortune has been exactly what you'd expect from an OG Rocks pub: a place to sink a schooner, catch live music and order a reliably hearty pub meal. The problem? It's so popular that it was often too packed to find a table you could sit at to eat. By knocking through into neighbouring heritage shopfronts, the family-run WDS Hotels group (led by husband and wife Steve and Fiona Speed) have almost doubled the venue's dining capacity – without losing the character that's kept people coming back for generations. The vibe History is everywhere in Bistro 1828, but it doesn't feel like you're eating inside a museum. The heritage bones remain, with beaten copper panelling, walls painted deep mulberry and forest green, stained-glass windows and grand golden arches framing the space. During the reno, workers uncovered old liquor and medicine bottles, which now sit on display as little reminders of the building's past. The new bistro is brighter than the original pub, thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking George Street. Grab a seat by the wind
Sippenham

Sippenham

4 out of 5 stars
✍ Time Out Sydney never writes starred restaurant and bar reviews from hosted experiences – Time Out covers restaurant and bar bills, and anonymously reviews, so that readers can trust our critique. Find out more, here.  Lasagne has long played a supporting role on menus – as second fiddle to more scene-stealing pasta dishes. But finally, this comfort food is getting top billing in Sydney. There’s Vineria Luisa’s “seven layers of happiness”, the Bat & Ball’s renowned $17 number, A.P Bread & Wine’s kinda lasagne, and people are loving the lasagne bites at Vitelli’s Upstairs. Then there’s the lasagne at Sydenham neighbourhood restaurant Sippenham, which certainly deserves a spot centre stage (more on that shortly). Sippenham is a pasta and wine bar opened last year by chef Nick Giannopoulos and his high-school best mate Stephen Mandis, who dreamed the idea up when they moved in together during lockdown. Despite the fact that it’s not that far from buzzy Marrickville, Sippenham is kind of a lone wolf here on Unwins Bridge Rd in Sydenham. The only other eateries nearby are the pub bistro at the General Gordon Hotel, Ho’s Bakery and a kebab shop. I almost walk past Sippenham – the restaurant’s name is scribbled in graffiti on the awning, helping the place camouflage into the gritty streetscape. The vibe The vibe, according to their website is “inspired by the vibrant food, music and nightlife scenes of East London, reimagined for Sydenham, Sydney”. What that means in practice: un
InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach

InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach

5 out of 5 stars
If I was going to suggest a hotel to someone from out of town who was keen to have a very Sydney experience, I’d tell them to stay at the new InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach. Our city has a lovely, long coastline with some of the world’s best beaches, yet there aren’t many big hotels directly across the road from beaches here. And apart from being a beautiful shoreline, Coogee is a fun area with loads of great restaurants and nightlife. From the InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach, you’re not only footsteps from the beach, but you’ll likely be able to see it from your room – and it’s a pretty iconic Sydney view, from my POV. Book now over here. What are the rooms like at the InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach? Waking up opposite one of Sydney's most iconic beaches reminds me I’m on holiday before I've even left the bed. The hotel opened in late 2025 after a multi-million-dollar redesign of the previous digs by Woods Bagot, and the interiors lean into the neighbourhood’s coastal setting with a calm, contemporary feel inspired by Coogee's light and landscape. The design strikes that sweet spot between polished luxury and relaxed beachside living, which suits the area perfectly. The rooms aren’t huge, but mine has a wrap-around balcony that adds to the feeling of space, and everything I need inside: decent wardrobe space, a coffee machine, filtered water on each floor, a flatscreen TV, stocked mini bar, desk, free WIFI, and a really comfortable bed with lovely linen. To
Cotenna

Cotenna

5 out of 5 stars
✍ Time Out Sydney never writes starred restaurant and bar reviews from hosted experiences – Time Out covers restaurant and bar bills, and anonymously reviews, so that readers can trust our critique. Find out more, here. The food at Cotenna is served in little cardboard trays, so it’s a happy surprise that it’s here at this simple rotisserie eatery that I experience some of the best service I’ve received in recent times. I’m warmly greeted as I walk in, my every need is anticipated, and as I’m finishing eating up my already-planning-my-return good meal, the owner comes over with a complimentary shot of limoncello – the ideal antidote to a rich dinner featuring crackling pork. The same warm attention is granted to everyone who walks in while I’m here, whether they’re sitting down for a meal or just ordering takeaway. I like the place, and I can tell that every customer who comes in tonight will be back for more. The vibe This roast chicken and pork restaurant, which opened in December 2025 by Amy Wheater and chef Jamie Sutherland, is low-key – it’s up a set of stairs in a Military Rd arcade, in a fairly small space that’s been home to a range of restaurants over the years. (Cotenna started its life as 'Carne' at markets around Sydney, so this is their new bricks-and-mortar home.) You order at the counter, which is next to a rotisserie with chickens and pork roasts that look (and smell) mouthwateringly good. Potatoes sit under the spits, catching the cooking juices from above.
Afterpay Arena

Afterpay Arena

*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id="request-WEB:245ed18e-4b55-4c30-b29f-5d25a0fc0cf4-1" data-turn-id-container="request-WEB:245ed18e-4b55-4c30-b29f-5d25a0fc0cf4-1" data-testid="conversation-turn-2" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn="assistant"> One of Sydney’s major entertainment venues is getting a new name. The arena known as Qudos Bank Arena will soon become Afterpay Arena, as part of a five-year naming rights deal that was just announced. Located in Sydney Olympic Park, the venue has been a major stop on the touring circuit since opening in 1999 with a performance by Luciano Pavarotti. Over the years, it’s hosted international music stars including Billie Eilish, RÜFÜS DU SOL and TWICE, alongside sporting events, comedy shows, family entertainment and cultural events. As part of the rebrand, the venue will introduce new payment technology across the customer experience. Fans will be able to use Afterpay’s Pay in Four option when buying tickets, while Square’s payment and point-of-sale systems will power food, beverage and merchandise purchases inside the arena. The venue transformation – including updated signage and refreshed interiors – is currently underway. Until the rollout is complete, the venue will continue operating as Qudos Bank Arena while maintaining its reg
Amara

Amara

5 out of 5 stars
✍ Time Out Sydney never writes starred restaurant and bar reviews from hosted experiences – Time Out covers restaurant and bar bills, and anonymously reviews, so that readers can trust our critique. Find out more, here.  As we drive north-west from Sydney to Bowen Mountain, at the foothills of the Blue Mountains in the Hawkesbury region, the landscape is surprisingly lush. I’m used to the dry bush of the Blue Mountains, so I don’t expect to discover this verdant, tropical-like oasis, hidden in the sanctuary that is Songoma Spicers Retreat. The peaceful, leafy restaurant looks out over the retreat’s pool and a valley. It’s worth the trip just for the scenery.  The vibe As I come up the driveway, I realise it’s going to be very hard to peel myself away from this place at the end of lunch. Amara is at the centre of the resort, so you instantly feel like you’re on holiday, and you’re tempted to check in and stay for more than a day. ‘Amara’ is the Zulu word for grace, and the restaurant’s interior subtly references South African-style design through warm earthy tones, natural textures and sculptural accents. It’s a space that feels at home in this tranquil, green setting.  Also tying in with the setting, head chef Will Houia (who’s worked in kitchens at Michelin-starred RelĂŠ in Copenhagen, three-hatted NZ restaurants Pasture and Roots Restaurant, and Sydney’s renowned Firedoor) is big on using organic and seasonal produce from the Hawkesbury region – from within a one-hour drive
Claret Club

Claret Club

5 out of 5 stars
✍ Time Out Sydney never writes starred restaurant and bar reviews from hosted experiences – Time Out covers restaurant and bar bills, and anonymously reviews, so that readers can trust our critique. Find out more, here.  It’s bucketing down on my way to Claret Club on Stanley Street. I have an umbrella but still arrive sodden, my jean bottoms and shoes dripping. Despite my soggy appearance, I’m warmly welcomed into this romantic little sanctuary. They give me and my also-soggy friend the cutest table near the window. We look out at the deluge falling on the leafy, fairy-lit pavement, grateful to be in this cosy wine bar drinking expertly made Martinis by candlelight. My socks are damp but my spirits are high. The vibe Claret Club is in an old terrace house, so it has lived-in charm despite only opening in December 2025. Some original features have been maintained: leadlight doors and ornate cast-iron balustrades on the balconies. It has a Parisian feel, with outdoor tables under the trees (not in use on this wet night), white tablecloths on small tables, and smiling people seated along the bar. It feels like a happy place, thanks in part to warm, natural service that puts you at ease. The food The ground floor is a wine bar with excellent snacks, but upstairs is a proper Euro-inspired restaurant. We move up there to eat. We start with gnocco fritto ($20) – two fried dough fingers topped with a tangy aioli spiked with lemon and sage, an anchovy and fried sage leaf. Crunchy, c
Al Yasmin

Al Yasmin

5 out of 5 stars
✍ Time Out Sydney never writes starred restaurant and bar reviews from hosted experiences – Time Out covers restaurant and bar bills, and anonymously reviews, so that readers can trust our critique. Find out more, here.  There’s no shortage of well-loved Lebanese restaurants in Southwest Sydney, but Al Yasmin in Punchbowl is my favourite. The menu is huge, the portions are huger, and the can’t-stop-eating-it flavours go even harder. It’s also incredible value – come hungry.  The vibe Al Yasmin is a brightly lit restaurant on the main drag opposite Punchbowl train station. It’s a big enough place to go with a group for an affordable get-together, or you can just grab takeaway.  Confusingly, even though the sign out front and on the menus (and Google) say Al Yasmin, the waitstaff wear uniforms that say Jasmin 1 – a nod to its previous life as one of the many Jasmin 1 Lebanese restaurants across Sydney. The name is the only thing that’s changed – this Punchbowl institution still delivers the same great food and value that it has for more than 30 years. The food There’s no way you won’t over-order here, especially because they drop complimentary Lebanese bread, pickles, tomatoes, fresh mint, onions, garlic sauce and chilli sauce on the table before any of your actual selections arrive. As they start fulfilling your order, you'll realise you're in for a feast.  Everything is excellent, but I’d recommend getting their lemon garlic chicken ($26) – it’s grilled shish tawook, removed
Club Sup Pottery & Painting

Club Sup Pottery & Painting

Looking for new ways to find friends? Want to get creative? Combine both with a Club Sup pottery and painting session at CeeCee Studios on Quarry Street in Ultimo. Slow down, get a little messy and learn the art of hand-building ceramics on Saturday, March 28 from 10am to midday. Never done pottery before? No worries. Over two hours, your host will teach you how to shape your own mug from 500 grams of clay, giving you tips and tricks to refine your technique. Once your mug is formed, personalise it with your choice of glaze colour for the perfect finishing touch. The team will handle the firing and glazing, so all that’s left for you to do is to return later and pick up your handmade creation. And then enjoy a cuppa, of course. The vibe is relaxed, with coffee and snacks to enjoy as you craft, chat and connect with others around the table. Book your spot here. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do around Sydney in 2026 Want to do something useful? Sydney has a big youth homelessness problem – here's how to help
The Palomar

The Palomar

5 out of 5 stars
✍ Time Out Sydney never writes starred restaurant and bar reviews from hosted experiences – Time Out covers restaurant and bar bills, and anonymously reviews, so that readers can trust our critique. Find out more, here.  When I see “Mediterranean” used to describe a restaurant, my mind usually drifts to Italy and Greece. But The Palomar, they say, takes inspiration from Southern Spain, Northern Africa, and the Levant (all the lands along the eastern edge of the Mediterranean Sea, including Syria, Lebanon and Jordan). How that translates on a menu: basically, flame-grilled meats, seafoods and veggies, served with colourful, punchy sauces, and made to share. But there’s nothing basic about Mitch Orr’s food. When a chef this exciting gives culinary direction, you know it’s going to be thrilling. At this Oxford Street restaurant – unveiled with the launch of the new 25hours Hotel Sydney The Olympia – Mediterranean food gets a jolt of Orr’s signature intensity and playfulness. It's a genuinely fresh addition to inner Sydney’s restaurant scene. The Palomar Sydney is the sister venue to a popular London restaurant of the same name, founded by hospo siblings Layo and ZoĂ« Paskin. Orr once worked alongside the pair and, here in Sydney, he’s joined by head chef Luke Davenport, who started his career at The Palomar London a decade ago before working in kitchens including at Noma (Copenhagen) and Franca Brasserie (Sydney). Now, Sydney is lucky to have this formidable duo land together in

News (215)

Daylight savings starts in NSW soon – here's what you need to know

Daylight savings starts in NSW soon – here's what you need to know

Update Thursday, September 24: Yesterday marked Australia’s spring equinox, when our days become longer than our nights. The astronomical shift happened at exactly 10.05am as the sun crossed directly over the Earth’s equator. The days will continue getting longer until the summer solstice in late December. And if you’re already craving those longer evenings, daylight saving is just around the corner, kicking off in NSW on Sunday, October 4. Along with backyard barbies, long days at the beach and Weis Bars, one of the real joys of summer* (*or "almost summer") is the return of daylight saving. (And yes, technically it’s daylight saving, but for some reason most of us seem to add an 's'.) The great news is that those longer, light-filled evenings are almost here – and there’s a very good chance your phone will change its clock without you having to lift a finger. Here’s a handy explainer covering what you need to know about daylight saving starting in NSW in 2026, and what it means for your precious sleep schedule. When does daylight saving start in NSW? Daylight saving begins every year on the first Sunday in October at 2am local time. This year, that date falls on Sunday, October 4, 2026. At 2am, clocks will jump forward one hour to 3am, meaning we lose an hour overnight but gain more daylight in the evening. So, from Sunday onwards, you can look forward to longer afternoons and those glorious post-work hours when it’s still light enough to squeeze in a beach walk, sunset dri
These are the 6 best natural wonders to visit in Victoria in 2026

These are the 6 best natural wonders to visit in Victoria in 2026

From towering sea stacks and ancient mountain ranges to giant redwoods, Victoria is home to some seriously spectacular natural scenery. And while Melburnians don't have to travel far to find some of it, a few of these wonders are worth a proper road trip.  Global travel publisher WorldAtlas has just rounded up the best natural wonders in Victoria to visit at the moment; here are seven of them
 1. The Organ Pipes There's a surprising geological wonder hiding north-west of Melbourne. At Organ Pipes National Park, towering columns of basalt look uncannily like the pipes of an enormous church organ (pictured above). The distinctive formation was created when ancient lava cooled and cracked into striking, near-vertical columns. Follow the walking track down towards Jacksons Creek for the best views, then explore other formations in the park, including Rosette Rock. It's one of those places that feels far further from the city than it actually is. 2. The Californian Redwood Forest Victoria has its own redwood forest, and it really is as magical as the photos suggest. Deep in the Otways near Beech Forest, rows of towering Californian redwoods create a scene that feels distinctly un-Australian. The trees were planted in the 1930s and have grown into an atmospheric grove where sunlight filters through the canopy and the trunks seem to disappear into the sky. The forest sits near the Aire River and makes a peaceful detour when exploring the Great Otway National Park. It can get busy,
These are 5 of the most peaceful small towns in regional Victoria

These are 5 of the most peaceful small towns in regional Victoria

Melbourne’s not exactly known for being quiet – there’s the dinging of the trams, not to mention their brakes screeching as they take corners. There’s the roar of a footy crowd. Sidewalk buskers. The hissing coffee machines at busy cafes. Constant construction noise. And then, when the Grand Prix comes to town, the thunderous revs of F1 engines. When you’re looking for some peace and quiet to clear your head, where should you head?  Global travel publisher WorldAtlas has just rounded up the most peaceful towns across Victoria; here are five of them
 Warrnambool: This is a great place for Australian wildlife spotting. If you go now (any time between June and September), you can see southern right whales swimming within a hundred metres of Logans Beach. There’s a viewing platform in the dunes where you can watch the majestic creatures from. Then there’s Tower Hill Reserve – a short drive from town – which fills the crater of a dormant volcano. The crater has created a sanctuary where kangaroos, koalas and emus have populated the bush around a chain of crater lakes for many thousands of years. Castlemaine: Castlemaine might have been a boomtown in its gold rush years, but it’s now a calm place to take walks in nature. There’s Castlemaine Botanical Gardens, which is one of the oldest botanic gardens in Victoria and home to an idyllic lake, old elm trees and river red gums. The 3 acres of gardens at the Buda Historic Home and Garden (built all the way back in 1863 by silversmith E
Sydney's most iconic restaurant enters a new chapter – with a chef who knows it better than anyone

Sydney's most iconic restaurant enters a new chapter – with a chef who knows it better than anyone

Rob Cockerill has just taken over as executive head chef of one of Sydney's most iconic restaurants, but he knows this kitchen better than anyone. He's been working with Peter Gilmore for more than 20 years, and at Bennelong for 11 years. He even helped Gilmore – who has departed Sydney to live in Tasmania – design the kitchen. Cockerill knows Bennelong from the foundations up, and his first menu shows he understands that a new chapter doesn't require rewriting the story. Thankfully, he's keeping the things that have always made Bennelong special: exceptional Australian produce treated with meticulous technique to create delicious plates of food. Nikki ToRob Cockerill, the new executive head chef at Bennelong. I've been lucky enough to dine here a few times and I'm always in awe when I enter – it's one of Sydney's great dining rooms, with those dramatic concrete beams that hold up the Opera House sails, the glowy glass-bulb lighting, the views of the Harbour Bridge, and the warm welcome you get. My evening starts with a Bennelong Negroni, followed by pretty canapĂ©s: a delicate pea and caviar tart; bresaola with radicchio rosa and panisse; and Sydney rock oysters with lemon pepper granita. For entrĂ©es, I order the mud crab dumpling with brown butter and white flowering kale, which feels like a very Bennelong kind of dish – intricate without being very showy. There’s a distinctly Australian- and seasonal-produce thread running through these starter dishes – for instance, cora
This secret botanic garden in Sydney is bigger than NYC’s Central Park

This secret botanic garden in Sydney is bigger than NYC’s Central Park

Sydney's Royal Botanic Garden, situated right by our dreamy Sydney Harbour and just steps from our iconic Opera House, is without a doubt the city's most famous pocket of green. But did you know Australia’s biggest botanic garden – also in Sydney – is just under an hour’s drive from the CBD? The Australian Botanic Garden, Mount Annan is located just 60 kilometres south-west of the middle of the city (which means you can drive there in under an hour). And you should, because with a whopping 416 hectares of space (that’s bigger than Central Park in New York City), there’s plenty to explore.  The Australian Botanic Garden, Mount Annan is one of the most important conservation sites in NSW, and it’s free to visit. So if you haven’t been yet, where the bloody hell are you? Where is the Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan? Mount Annan is in the Macarthur region – it’s part of Camden Council and Campbelltown City Council. It’s on Dharawal Country. Photograph: Destination NSW; Australian Botanic Garden, Mount Annan What can I see at the Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan? These gardens are home to native flora from across Australia. The huge space is made up of lawns, landscaped gardens, lakes, and there are even plenty of native animals to spot.  There’s a lot to see, but some of our favourite sections include: the Connections Garden, which is mind-blowingly beautiful, especially in spring, when the gardens host an annual wildflower display.  There are barbecue and picnic are
These are Sydney's 4 biggest new dining trends for 2026

These are Sydney's 4 biggest new dining trends for 2026

Time Out Australia has released a 2026 Dining Trends Report – in line with the announcement of the Time Out Sydney Food & Drink Award 2026 winners. The results of the Trends Report stem largely from patterns identified across the range of Time Out Food & Drink Award 2026 nominee venues from Sydney and Melbourne, which reflect bigger trends across the cities’ dining scenes. One clear theme? “Specific authenticity” is on the rise. It’s a direction Sydney hospitality and diners are really leaning into, with venues doubling down on niche concepts – and sticking to them. The key Sydney dining trends identified for 2026 are: 1. The Rise of "Specific Authenticity" There's been a shift in Sydney’s hospitality scene away from broad offerings and towards “specific authenticity”. Taking Time Out Food & Drink Award 2026 venues as examples, many venues are now focused on highly localised regional cuisines instead of broad-brush themes like "European" or "Middle Eastern": think Padang Indonesian at Temu Kangen and Hungarian at Corner 75.  2. High-Concept Affordable Eats  Specificity is also a characteristic of the budget bites category – affordable venues have evolved from simple takeaways to a sophisticated segment offering hyper-specific product lines, made by applying rigorous techniques to low-cost formats. Examples include Sydney nominee Eat Ozzo (which makes a pizza-sandwich hybrid) and Newcastle's Arno Deli (where an award-winning chef makes Florentine panini). "For this reason, ch
These are Melbourne's 5 biggest new dining trends for 2026

These are Melbourne's 5 biggest new dining trends for 2026

Time Out Australia has released a 2026 Dining Trends Report – in line with the announcement of the Time Out Melbourne Food & Drink Award 2026 winners. The results of the Trends Report stem largely from patterns identified across the range of Time Out Food & Drink Award 2026 nominee venues from Melbourne and Sydney, which reflect bigger trends across the cities’ dining scenes. One clear theme? “Specific authenticity” is on the rise. It’s a direction Melbourne hospitality and diners are really leaning into, with venues doubling down on niche concepts – and sticking to them. The key Melbourne dining trends identified for 2026 are: 1. The Rise of "Specific Authenticity"  There's been a shift in Melbourne's hospitality scene away from broad offerings and towards “specific authenticity”. Taking Time Out Food & Drink Award 2026 nominee venues as examples, many venues are now focused on highly localised regional cuisines instead of broad-brush themes like "European" or "Middle Eastern": think Portuguese at Marmelo, Venezuelan at Papelón – and Otakoi (which took out the award for Best Restaurant) is recognised as Melbourne’s first and only Ukrainian restaurant. 2. Hyper-Specialised Beverages  Specificity is also a characteristic of the bar industry – the success of bars as specific as “sherry focused” (at Time Out Melbourne Food & Drink Awards 2026 nominee Three Horses) suggests Australian drinkers are seeking "knowledge-based" consumption. Another Melbourne nominee bar, Moondrop, spe
These are Melbourne's 4 favourite restaurants and bars for 2026, according to locals' votes

These are Melbourne's 4 favourite restaurants and bars for 2026, according to locals' votes

Melbourne diners have had their say – and in record numbers. More than 10,000 votes were cast in this year’s Time Out Food & Drink Awards People’s Choice categories, making it our biggest public vote yet. While Time Out Editors crown the industry’s best in the Editors' Choice categories, the People’s Choice Awards celebrate the places locals genuinely love – the neighbourhood haunts, date-night staples and group-chat go-tos Melburnians return to time and time again. They define how Melbourne likes eating and drinking right now. This year’s winners reflect everything we love about eating and drinking in this city, from spirited, culture-rich dining experiences to standout brunch spots, intimate bars and timeless pubs.  “This year’s People’s Choice winners really speak to Melbourne’s deep love of food, culture and connection,” said Time Out Melbourne Managing Editor, Leah Glynn. “From the warm, generous hospitality at Otakoi to the cult-favourite toasties at Black Gold and the cosy charm of St Luja, these are the places locals turn to when they want to eat well and enjoy the experience.” Here are the Time Out Melbourne People’s Choice winners for 2026: Favourite Restaurant: Otakoi, Windsor Melbourne's only Ukrainian restaurant serves hearty comfort food (like dumplings and honey sponge cake) in a space bursting with colour and character. Favourite CafĂ©: Black Gold, Richmond This southside brunch spot is known for its specialty ONA coffee and elevated dishes, including decons
These are Sydney's 5 favourite restaurants and bars for 2026, according to locals' votes

These are Sydney's 5 favourite restaurants and bars for 2026, according to locals' votes

Sydney diners have had their say – and in record numbers. More than 10,000 votes were cast in this year’s Time Out Food & Drink Awards People’s Choice categories, making it our biggest public vote yet. While Time Out Editors crown the industry’s best in the Editors' Choice categories, the People’s Choice Awards celebrate the places locals genuinely love – the neighbourhood haunts, date-night staples and group-chat go-tos Sydneysiders return to time and time again. They define how Sydney likes eating and drinking right now. This year’s results paint a fun picture of Sydney's dining scene, spanning waterside Italian diners, North African cafĂ© and a revived Aussie pub.  "The People’s Choice winners showcase what Sydney’s loving right now, and I'm not surprised that includes Italian food, which are really having a moment, with new pasta and pizza spots popping up all around the city," says Time Out Sydney editor, Avril Treasure. Here are the Time Out Sydney People’s Choice winners for 2026: Favourite Restaurant (tie): Cibaria Manly – An all-day Italian precinct by Alessandro Pavoni, known for its beachside setting, fresh pasta and artisanal gelato. Favourite Restaurant (tie): Como Italian, The Rocks – A waterfront spot serving sustainable seafood with “la dolce vita” vibes and Opera House views. Favourite CafĂ©: Café Tanja, Surry Hills This soul-filled, family-run gem on Crown Street is known for its Tunisian shakshuka and Moroccan mint tea. Favourite Bar: Cardea, Barangaroo This
These are the 5 biggest new dining trends in Australia for 2026

These are the 5 biggest new dining trends in Australia for 2026

In line with the announcement of the Food & Drink Awards 2026 – winners are being revealed today – Time Out Australia has also released our Dining Trends Report 2026. The results stem largely from patterns identified across the range of Time Out Food & Drink Award 2026 nominee venues from Sydney and Melbourne, which reflect bigger trends across the cities’ dining scenes. The key dining trends identified for 2026 are: 1. The Rise of "Specific Authenticity"  There's been a shift in the hospitality scene – at least in Sydney and Melbourne – away from broad offerings and towards “specific authenticity”. Taking Time Out Food & Drink Award 2026 nominee venues as examples, many venues are now focused on highly localised regional cuisines instead of broad-brush themes like "European" or "Middle Eastern": think Peloponnesian Greek at Olympic Meats, Hungarian at Corner 75, Padang Indonesian at Temu Kangen, Portuguese at Marmelo, Venezuelan at Papelón – and Otakoi is recognised as Melbourne’s first and only Ukrainian restaurant. 2. Hyper-Specialised Beverages  Specificity is also a characteristic of the bar industry – the success of bars as specific as “sherry focused” (at Time Out Melbourne Food & Drink Awards 2026 nominee Three Horses) suggests Australian drinkers are seeking "knowledge-based" consumption. Sydney nominee Paradise in Sydney is a specialist in orange wine; Moondrop in Melbourne specialises in East Asian flavour profiles, utilising ingredients like lapsang souchong tea,
Time Out has announced Australia's top restaurants and bars for 2026

Time Out has announced Australia's top restaurants and bars for 2026

The Time Out Food & Drink Award 2026 winners have just dropped, revealing the most sought-after and exciting dining and drinking hotspots across Australia. For more than 15 years, our awards have been celebrating wow-factor restaurants and bars in both Editors' Choice as well as People's Choice categories. And, for the first time, People's Choice voting was opened up to all of Australia (not just New South Wales and Victorian venues). The results arrive alongside Time Out Australia’s 2026 Dining Trends Report, which offers further insight into the themes and tastes defining the Sydney and Melbourne dining scenes. The report highlights several overarching trends for this year, including a shift towards "specific authenticity" over broad menus, high-concept affordable eats and a rise in hyper-specialised drinks.  The judging process Time Out’s 2026 Food & Drink Awards are split into two categories: Editors’ Choice and People’s Choice. In case you’re wondering how Time Out goes about reviewing for the Editors' Choice nominations and winners, we never write starred restaurant and bar reviews from hosted experiences, or as part of paid partnerships. Time Out covers restaurant and bar bills, and anonymously reviews, so readers can trust our recommendations.  Based on this system, we’ve been running awards that celebrate Australia’s hospitality industry for more than 15 years. We truly believe we have some of the most delicious dining scenes in the world, and we love being able to c
This Sydney icon enters a new era – I just visited, and it’s all the better for it

This Sydney icon enters a new era – I just visited, and it’s all the better for it

The word “iconic” is thrown around too easily, but Ormeggio at The Spit has all the ingredients to make it a genuinely iconic Sydney restaurant – a must-have experience. Perched over the water at D'Albora Marina, it delivers uninterrupted water views of Middle Harbour, whether you’re sitting indoors or out. It’s owned and led by a renowned Australian chef – Alessandro Pavoni, whose skill for cooking fine Italian fare began to be recognised after opening this, his first restaurant, in 2009 with wife Anna. Speaking of 2009 – the pair have managed to build something enduring in an industry where longevity is anything but guaranteed. And, of course, they serve delicious food that transports you to Alessandro’s native Italy.  The passionate pair now have nine Sydney restaurants (plus one in Noosa), and what they know from years of experience is that, no matter how well-loved a restaurant is, you can’t rest on your laurels – adaptation is key in an ever-changing market. So, after a busy period opening newcomer restaurants including Cibaria, Postino Osteria, Vineria Luisa and now also Pizza'Mare, their focus has circled back to where it all began. Alongside executive chef and co-owner Victor Moya and head chef Federico Caracci, they’re ushering Ormeggio into a more relaxed, flexible era. Photograph: Steven Woodburnfood and drink at Ormeggio at the Spit I visit with a friend on one of those golden Sydney afternoons, starting on a lounge at the waterfront aperitivo terrazza. A White