Alison Rodericks

It’s official: we’re now more than halfway through the year – I hope your first six months have been tops. I don’t know about you, but I can’t keep up with all the delicious new restaurant openings – though you’ll find some of the best ones below. My current picks? Neil Perry's new Italian in Double Bay, Grand Torino; The CBD’s swish new French go-to, LouLou Bistro; a fresh and fab new waterfront diner in Manly called Felons Seafood; and The Shire's cool Green spot, Homer Rogue Taverna. Enjoy. 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 something to wash it all down with? These are our favourite bars in Sydney right now. Keen to eat your way around the city? These are the best restaurants in Sydney, from hot newcomers to the OGs.

Winter 2025 update: Two things that are true right now: sh*t’s expensive and it’s cold outside. The good news? You can still enjoy a delicious meal on a shoestring if you know where to look. Keep this guide handy next time you’re catching up with a mate. Going out for a meal is sometimes a big occasion, worth the splurge. But it doesn't have to be that way. From banh mi to tonkotsu ramen, biang biang noodles to vegan burgers, and pretty much everything else in between, some of Sydney's greatest culinary hits are the cheapest. Time Out Sydney's local food writers have eaten their way around town to bring you this list, and while cheap isn't what it used to be, there are still lots of excellent affordable venues to check out. These are the ones well worth their salt. 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. Want to spend less at the big-ticket players? Check out our cheap fine-dining hacks.

From specialty Sichuan spots to hot Cantonese kitchens, Sydney has some seriously great Chinese restaurants. Time Out Sydney's local food writers have eaten their way around town to bring you this curated and up-to-date list. So whether you want to go all out and explore regional cuisines, sit down for yum cha, grab some takeaway barbecue duck or hand-thrown noodles, you'll find your spot here. These are the best Chinese restaurants Sydney has to offer – we're hungry just thinking about them. 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: Here are the tastiest cheap eats in Sydney right now Check out the best Italian joints in Sydney town

For decades Newtown has been an evolving creature, where creativity abounds and self-expression is paramount. And yes, while we still want to #keepnewtownweird and vegans are still well catered for, there's plenty on the dining scene to keep even the most straight-laced pearl clutchers happy, too.  There's high-end dining to be had in this rainbow neck of the woods, but also a bunch of hyper-focussed regional diners dishing up everything from Egyptian street food to killer pizza and fiery Chinese hot pots. Time Out Sydney's local food writers, including Food & Drink Editor Avril Treasure, have eaten their way around King Street and beyond to bring you this guide to Newtown's best restaurants. And if you're thirsty, check out our guide to Newtown's best bars 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 Sydney restaurants for your dining hit list

Whether you want thick, creamy, red curries; soft, charry naan breads; oily, hot pickles; a fiery vindaloo; or a cooling lassi, there's an Indian restaurant primed to sort your spice cravings in Sydney. Time Out Sydney's writers, including Food & Drink Editor Avril Treasure – who has spent weeks travelling from the palm-fringed beaches in Goa to the lush mountains in Darjeeling – have rounded up the best Indian restaurants in the city. We've got tropical flavours from the south and the earthy heat from northern fare, and, if you really want to go on a subcontinental adventure, head to Sydney's own little India in Harris Park. Want more food adventures? Check out our guide to the best Sydney restaurants. 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. On a budget? Here are the best cheap eats 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 Food & Drink 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.

Winter 2025 update: Chuck on a coat and beanie and embrace the cool weather with a hot coffee and a yum brekkie at one of our favourite Sydney cafés. My current picks include the new Room Ten in Potts Point, Parra’s Middle Eastern-inspired go-to Circa Espresso, and for a Filipino feast, head to Tita Carinderia in Marrickville. Sydneysiders are café 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 cafés, according to our in-the-know Time Out Sydney writers, including Food & Drink Editor Avril Treasure. We'll have one B&E roll, please.  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.

Parramatta's CBD is now one of the biggest commercial hubs outside of the Sydney CBD. Along with this hustle and bustle has emerged a lively restaurant scene with cuisines from across the globe. So whether Parramatta (or nearby Harris Park) is a detour, your main destination, or you're lucky enough to live in the area, the buzzing suburb's excellent restaurants will have you stumped for choice. We've rounded up our favourites, to make the decision easier for you. Get cracking. 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 Indian, specifically? Here's our guide to the best Indian restaurants in Parramatta and Harris Park.  Or check out our guide to the very best restaurants across Sydney.

It's ticking over to a shameful hour, and you've smoke-bombed from the party in search of sustenance. Is it fried chicken you're after, that fail-safe absorbent of sin and too many cocktails? Or maybe you've been working late, and you're looking to redeem a day of fluorescent-lit corporate drudgery with the perfect plate of spicy noodles? Time Out's Sydney's writers, including Food & Drink Editor (and fellow night owl) Avril Treasure, spend a lot of time out on the town at night – it's our job. So we know where to nab a decent late-night feed (when Macca's isn't it). We've rounded up the best spots where you'll find what you're craving, way up late. Most of the places on this list are open until around midnight or beyond (especially Thursdays to Saturdays). 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. Still feeling snackish? Take yourself out to peruse our list of the very best cheap eats you can get in Sydney. RECOMMENDED: These are the best pizza restaurants in Sydney right now

Home to excellent surf, Sydney’s longest continuous stretch of beach, pumping live music venues, lively cafés and stunning coastal walks, Cronulla is the pearl in the Shire’s salty crown. Plus, with its proximity to the Royal National Park, it’s a ripping place to base yourself for a few days (or weeks). The locals here are laid-back, friendly and proud of their beautiful coastal suburb, and after one visit here, you’ll soon see why. Over the past decade, the dining scene in Cronulla has been turned up a notch, with restaurants popping up that rival those found in the big smoke. Time Out Sydney's food writers, including one who calls Cronulla home, has rounded up the best places to eat and drink. Hit the surf then hit up one of these spots. 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: Six ways for nature-lovers to get the best out of the Sutherland Shire. These are the best restaurants in Manly. Check out our guide to the best beaches in Sydney here.

The five days between Christmas and New Year’s Eve are a strange, awkward, in-between time for everyone. Most places have closed shop for the summer, while others have new holiday hours that are tricky to wrap your head around. At this time of year, Sydney tends to feel more empty than usual as most locals make a mass exodus for elsewhere, but if you plan on sticking around and having a lovely summer holiday in a whole city that you're likely to get (probably, mostly) to yourself, we have put together a list for you of all the coolest things for you to do in town between Christmas Day and NYE. You're welcome.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED: Want more culture? Check out our guide to the best art exhibitions and theatre and musicals on in Sydney this month. 

Contrary to contemporary yarns, there are still pubs and bars that host live music in Sydney. Many of them have successfully lashed back at the encroaching frontline of pokie machines.  We're all for it. So Time Out Sydney's writers – including pub-frother and Editor Alice Ellis, and resident booze-lover and Editor Avril Treasure, have rounded up a list of our fave bars and pubs that host live bands. 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. Hate the ding-ding of pokie machines? Here's a list of Sydney pubs without pokies. More into dancing to a DJ? Check our guide to the best clubs in Sydney.

Jazz lovers and New Orleans dreamers, this one’s for you. This year, a super immersive live music experience is landing in Sydney – brought to life by Fever, the team behind Sydney’s much-loved Candlelight concerts. ‘The Jazz Room: A Journey to the Heart of New Orleans’ is swinging into town after wowing audiences across Europe, the UK, and the US – here’s what you need to know. Fittingly, the shows will be held at the glamorous Albert Palais, a beautifully restored heritage-listed 1920s Art Deco venue in Leichhardt. The soul-stirring musical performances will transport you back to 1920s’ New Orleans, the birthplace of jazz.  A talented lineup of musicians will perform so many of the iconic jazz, rhythm and blues’ classics you’ll recognise including Hello Dolly (Louis Armstrong), On the Sunny Side of the Street (Jimmy McHugh) and When The Saints Go Marching In (Jazz Standard). Think jazz is all about the riff? You're not wrong, and the artists will be breaking into spontaneous improvisation (the hallmark of the genre) throughout.  Ready to travel back in time? Book some tickets, grab a cocktail, and settle in for an evening of toe-tapping rhythm, ragtime vibes, and all that jazz. ‘The Jazz Room: A Journey to the Heart of New Orleans’ will run on various Friday nights from August through December, with two seatings (one at 6.30pm and one at 8.30pm) every evening. Tickets start at $49, and you can snap up yours over here.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney

✍️ 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 poetry of Tagore. Mother Teresa’s Missionaries of Charity. The roar of a cricket match at Eden Gardens. Kolkata – once the capital of British India and formerly called Calcutta – pulses with poetry, politics and passion. And now, you can have a taste of the ‘City of Joy’ on Newtown’s vibrant King Street. After spearheading Colombo Social, Kabul Social and Kyiv Social, man on a (social justice) mission, Shaun Christie-David, founder of Plate It Forward, opened Kolkata Social in March. You might remember Ukrainian eatery Kyiv Social won Time Out Sydney’s Impact Award 2025, so we’re excited to see what’s on offer. It’s a sunny Sunday when we are seated in a cobalt blue room with a view to the open red-tiled kitchen where the chef Ahana Dutt is in charge. Kolkata-born, Dutt earned her culinary cred at Firedoor and Raja before Christie-David roped her in. With every set menu ordered, Kolkata Social donates meals to those in need – one in Sydney and one in Kolkata via their charity partner, Calcutta Rescue. This isn’t your typical Indian restaurant There’s no chicken tikka from North India, or idli sambar from the South. Instead, Kolkata Social is a celebration of Bengali cuisine – and we’re here to savour it. First up, our entrées. The dry chilli chicken featu

Winter is well and truly here, and if you needed a reason to leave the warmth of your home, we’ve got you. This June and July, South Eveleigh will be transformed into a winter wonderland with its brand new offering, Loco Markets. Inspired by the charm of European street markets, Loco will have a rotating lineup of themed nights, live entertainment, artisan stalls selling handmade goods, delicious food and drink, and family fun from June 19 until July 27. Yes, that’s every Thursday to Sunday for six glorious weeks.  What’s more, each week is a fresh experience with new themes to keep you coming back. The music has been curated by ARIA-nominated Stu Hunter to match each week’s theme, and there will be kid-friendly activities like face painting and creative workshops. Entry is free, though some workshops require bookings. Here’s what’s on each week: Artisan Design (June 19–22)Kick things off with bath bomb workshops, live cartoonists and jazz harp performances. Shop 3D-printed gifts from Mewse, playful cardboard costumes by Paper Pops, and stunning jewellery from Stof Studios. Produce & Wellness (June 26–29)Get your glow on with seasonal produce and health products. Don’t miss natural skincare by Stori of Africa, wholesome foods from Soka Pantry, and tea-based wine alternatives by Junco Drinks. Design & Sustainability (July 3–6)Celebrate slow fashion, botanical beauty and sing-along art workshops. Market picks include earthenware from Ignem Terrae Ceramics, sustainable style fro

✍️ 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 Google Maps recently revealed their list of Aussie restaurants with the most customer reviews, one name rose above the rest: Dosa Hut in Harris Park. That was all the convincing we needed – off we went, with empty stomachs and high expectations. We’re in Harris Park, AKA ‘Little India’, on a Sunday and Wigram Street is where the action unfolds. Think chaat vendors, sari-clad women drinking cups of chai, men chatting in Hindi or Urdu as they chew paan, kids eating kulfi, families browsing mithai counters, and the unmistakable scent of spice lingering in the air. We arrive at Dosa Hut in time for the lunchtime rush. It’s in a white weatherboard cottage-turned-restaurant like many of its neighbours in the area. We’re met with a “there’s a 25-minute wait”, so we plop down on the plastic chairs in the courtyard and watch an endless stream of Uber Eats drivers pick up their spicy parcels. Just under the restaurant’s name we read the phrase ‘Indian multi-cuisine’ – and that’s exactly what they offer. Unlike Chatkazz just around the corner that serves vegetarian-only street food, Dosa Hut claims to do it all: vegetarian and non-vegetarian, North Indian, South Indian and even Indo-Chinese. Soon enough, we’re shown to our table and handed the menu. Grabbing our at

Showbags, woodchopping contests, baby animals, roller coasters, stunt cars, showbags, fruit and veg displays, cake decorating comps, fireworks... did we mention showbags? Yep, the Sydney Royal Easter Show is back at Sydney Showground from April 11-22 2025 with all the old-time favourites – and plenty of new offerings as well. Whether it’s your first time or a long-standing family tradition, it’s time to book those tickets. Here's our essential guide to the Sydney Royal Easter Show 2025 Did you know that the Show dates back to 1823? Hosted by the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW (RAS), it’s been celebrating the hard work of our NSW farmers and producers and contributing to the RAS and its agricultural initiatives ever since. Plus, it gives us city folk a chance to see farmyard animals and fresh produce up close and personal.  All the big crowd-pullers will be back for 2025. Make sure you line up early to see the baby animals before the rest of the crowd does, catch those cowboys at the rodeo, and marvel at world-class showjumping. A new attraction this year: Jamison Station, a 2.5-acre working farm. We’re talking sheep shearing, tractor rides and panning for gold. See more than 400 different animal breeds in the livestock competitions, from dairy and beef cattle to sheep, goats and even alpacas.  There’s also the kids’ rides section – and the option to take the action up a notch over on the big-kids rides. The Sky Flyer XXL will take you to dizzying heights, and there’s a bra

✍️ 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 folks of Redfern are spoilt. Spoilt, that is, for choice when it comes to eating out with its slew of cafés, restaurants and bars at their doorstep. And now, they have a shiny new dining and retail precinct Wunderlich Lane on the Redfern/Surry Hills border that’s home to the gorgeous Greek tavern Olympus (from the folks behind The Apollo), chic boutique hotel The Eve, the slick and playful Bar Julius, and our hangout for today, Island Radio. It’s Sunday, 12.30pm, and Island Radio is buzzing. Think two kitchens under one roof: a casual, wallet-friendly noodle bar for walk-ins who can feast on things like prawn and pork wonton laksa, and raw kingfish skewers, plus a swish eating house where booking ahead is not just a suggestion – it’s mandatory, going by how crowded it is when we visit. As we’re shown to our seats, an expanse of fibreglass full moon pendant lights grab our attention. Eye-catching yet ethereal, they set the tone. Every little detail is considered We’re talking bright orange tiles adorning the bar, a funky playlist, and disco lights in the toilets because – why not? This kind of eclectic-meets-elevated aesthetic is what we’ve come to expect from the crew at House Made Hospitality, the same team behind the likes of Grana, Apollonia, Martinez

Fresh-out-of-the-oven sourdough. Insta-worthy matcha lattes. Custard-oozing cruffins. Bakery lovers on the Northern Beaches, rejoice. Frenchs Fair in – you guessed it – Frenchs Forest is a brand-new bakery and café that’s bringing a bit of fine dining flair to baked goods.  Chef Max Bean, formerly of Est., Calla and The Bridge Room, has swapped silverware for sourdough, teaming up with his hospitality wife Vicki (both Roseville locals) to create this carb-lover’s paradise. Their menu is a good mix of over-the-counter sweet and savoury offerings and café classics. Think iced strawberry matcha lattes made with premium Uji matcha, or raspberry-and-custard cruffins. Prefer to munch through lunch with family or friends? Try the peach, honey and lemon thyme toast with whipped ricotta on house-baked sourdough, or the loaded Wagyu pastrami Reuben sandwich. Our pick would be the baker's brunch, featuring house-made pickles, hash brown bites, shaved leg ham, piccalilli chutney, hot honey ricotta, soft boiled egg and fresh bread.  The couple's commitment to sourcing produce locally shows: the butter is from CopperTree Farms, the stone-milled flour from Wholegrain Milling Co. and the coffee from Reuben Hills.   Max and Vicki’s combined expertise, honed from working in some of Sydney’s top-notch kitchens like Bar Topa and Palings, ensures that Frenchs Fair offers delicious baked goods in a stylish-yet-casual setting. It’s kid- and dog-friendly, with indoor-outdoor seating – perfect for a

Gymea’s got a new kid on an old block. We’re talking about the recently opened Hazel Kitchen & Bar found within the Hazelhurst Arts Centre. Its backstory? The property originally belonged to Ben and Hazel Broadhurst, who gifted it to the community in the ’90s to create a vibrant arts hub. Today, Hazel Kitchen & Bar, named after its benefactors, celebrates their legacy with great food and creative vibes. Chef Nils Herold serves up fresh, seasonal dishes inspired by the beautiful Hazelhurst gardens – think vibrant, local produce transformed into seriously delicious plates. With training from his uncle’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant, Clos St Dennis in Belgium, he’s got the chops to make every bite impressive. Drinks? Sorted. Sommelier Michael Hannken (yep, he’s worked at Quay and Bennelong) has handpicked a killer wine list packed with organic and sustainable drops from small, family-run wineries. For cocktail fans, bar manager Khye Saunder reimagines the classics with house-made liquors and drinks that are guaranteed to delight. Owners James Lancaster and Zoe Wall (the duo behind Audley Dance Hall Café) want Hazel to be a welcoming space, offering good times and great flavours. With Insta-worthy mid-century interiors (that stunning Breccia Rose marble bar is calling out to us), and gorgeous gardens, all you need to decide is whether to sit at the bar, grab a table, or chill on the deck with views of lush surroundings. What’s more, you can even say ‘I do’ here – yes, the venu

If you're into spicy curries, cool cocktails and late-night vibes, Sydney's newest hotspot Kasippu is calling your name. House of Pocket, the group behind Stitch Bar and YCK Laneways, has opened its doors to a Sri Lankan-inspired restaurant and cocktail bar that blends spice with spirit in a beautiful heritage building in the CBD. So, what’s behind the name? In Sri Lanka, Kasippu is moonshine that’s brewed illicitly in homes. The restaurant borrows the concept of making as much as it can in-house, from the food to the syrups and herbal extracts. At the helm is chef Amila Hemachandra, who recently spearheaded a team trip to Sri Lanka. From street eats to high-end plates, the team ate their way through everything to get to the heart of the island nation’s food and culture, before nutting out the concept of their new venture, Kasippu.  Front and centre is the wadiya or curry house, with dishes like sambol, devilled chicken and tempered potatoes on the menu, as well as the pepper beef stew, which is House of Pocket CEO Karl Schlothauer’s go-to order. Tucked behind the restaurant area is the bar with a drinks menu that’s a love letter to the island nation. Expect inventive twists on classic cocktails. How about a Siyambala Julep that features tamarind syrup and curry leaves? Kasippu’s menu is available all night long, making it the perfect place for kicking back with nibbles and drinks once their live entertainment starts. Yes, karaoke nights, local bands and DJs will soon be part

There’s a fresh new vibe on the Shire’s waterfront, and it’s called Pippis Cronulla. Sitting pretty on the newly renovated Calico Marina, this family-friendly waterfront venue is the brainchild of Adam Choker, the hospitality guy behind BarLume and Flower Child cafés.  Pippis Cronulla is a family affair, from the crowd it attracts to the team behind it. Adam got his brother Ramzey Choker, co-founder of The Grounds of Alexandria and the recently opened, The Grounds Coffee Factory, to help bring his vision of a relaxed waterfront dining hub to life. He also roped in his sister Caroline Choker and her husband Vince Alafaci of design studio Acme & Co to create a space that’s inviting yet stylish. Think modern coastal vibes paired with family-friendly touches like a play area for the little ones and a BYO policy that makes it wallet-friendly (they don’t sell booze, so bring along a chilled bottle or two of your fave bubbles or rosé).  Being a Cronulla resident meant that Adam wanted to give his community a space where locals could unwind with delicious food by the water. With this in mind, head chef Carlo Della Sala has crafted a menu that marries modern Australian cuisine with his Italian heritage. The Mediterranean-inspired fare features acai bowls and shakshuka for brekkie, while kingfish ceviche, wood-fired pizzas and, yes, pippis are on offer for lunch and dinner.  Pippis Cronulla joins a wave of great new eateries that have opened in The Shire, including Pino's Vino e Cucina

Tucked away in Surry Hills, Le Salle Dining by Bar Chaplin is the kind of place you’ll want to frequent with your foodie friends. Run by the dynamic duo of chef Patrick Dang – who has more than 30 years of culinary experience under his belt with the likes of Gordon Ramsay and Luke Mangan – and co-owner and partner Ederlyn Oloresisimo, who has worked at both Vue de Monde and Firedoor, Le Salle Dining offers an exclusive, reservation-only experience with just 10-14 seats each night. Think less “restaurant” and more of a cosy dinner party – and a really special one at that. Le salle means ‘the room’ in French, and that’s exactly the vibe chef Dang wants to create. During Covid lockdowns, he enjoyed cooking for friends at home, and now he’s inviting Sydneysiders into this neighbourhood venue with a promise of good food, good wine and good vibes. The menu? Ever-changing, always seasonal and inspired by the flavour profiles of wines from around the world. One night it might be crystal crab with smoked oyster ice cream (yep, you read that right), and the next, venison with parsnip and coffee. You can opt for a four-course menu or five courses if you’re feeling particularly peckish – and you can even customise the dining experience. Le Salle Dining promises an intimate, modern European meal with old-world charm. Leave your dining room and come check this one out instead. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity

Sydneysiders on the Northern Beaches, rejoice! If you’ve been missing the OG Boathouse café in Palm Beach, you’ll be stoked to know that The Boathouse Palm Beach reopened on November 8, bringing its signature coastal charm back to the area. While it’s no longer in its former waterfront location, it has found a beaut new home in a 1920s beach shack at 1 Beach Road, which was previously a homewares-only store. After six months of renovations, the much-loved spot has been transformed into a refreshed café and homewares destination, blending its rich history with a modern, beachy vibe. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Boathouse Palm Beach (@theboathousepalmbeach) While the space now boasts a new roof, balcony, kitchen and bar, it retains its laid-back style. The relaxed interiors feature a 100-seater café serving breakfast and lunch to locals, with the menu crafted by The Boathouse Group’s head of culinary, Mark La Brooy. What’s for brekkie? Try the mango bircher with macadamia crunch; corn fritters with avocado salsa; or the crab scramble with sriracha and peanut crunch. The coffee is Single O and there’s a selection of smoothies to cool you down while you enjoy the ocean breeze on the balcony. When lunchtime rolls around, dive into coastal classics like kingfish tostadas; potato scallops with whipped roe; or stuffed zucchini flowers. In the mood for something heartier? Try their fish and chips; Wagyu beef burger; crab toast and more. An

What began as a humble weekend pop-up is now a fully fledged eatery. Eat Ozzo in Pyrmont started with a simple idea: baking Neapolitan-style bread-based sandwiches that are anything but basic. Six months ago, owner Chandni Thakur swapped corporate spreadsheets for sandwiches – and the result is this Italian-inspired go-to you need to swing by. Photograph: Supplied/Eat Ozzo The bread is the real MVP. Their dough is fermented for at least 48 hours with just flour, water and salt as ingredients (no additives allowed), then wood-fired at 400°C until it’s pillowy, chewy, blistered – and ready for action. Their signature wallet pizzas are folded – as the name suggests – like a wallet, and packed with punchy flavours. Try the mortadella mayhem with whipped ricotta and a slather of Gelato Messina (yes, really!) pistachio butter; the Spanish roast beef with potatoes and salsa verde; or the cowboy chicken loaded with spicy chook, slaw and honey mustard. Vegetarians can grab the Greek cauli with cauliflower that’s roasted in their wood-fire oven to get that charry goodness, and vegans will be pleased with the satay tofu number for a protein-fuelled (and tasty) meal. But Eat Ozzo is more than just sandwiches. They serve up Five Senses coffee, nourishing grain bowls and takeaway treats that are worth slowing down for – especially with those water views. Photograph: Supplied/Eat Ozzo Speaking of which, Eat Ozzo is in a prime location. It’s tucked under The Star, next to the Sydney Lyri

If the name ‘Gran Torino’ rings a bell, you might be thinking of the vintage car or the Clint Eastwood movie by the same name. But now, there’s another reason to remember it: Neil Perry’s latest restaurant. Taking over the former home of his Cantonese diner Song Bird in the heritage-listed Gaden House in Double Bay – which recently had its final flight less than a year after its shiny big opening – Gran Torino serves up Italian classics with a modern Australian spin and that unmistakable Perry polish. Gran Torino is a one-minute walk from Perry’s cream-accented flagship diner Margaret – voted the second-best steak restaurant in the world – as well as his casual outpost Next Door (get the burger) and excellent bakery, Baker Bleu. Photograph: Yusuke Oba The elegant two-storey dining room has been reimagined by long-time collaborators, fashion designer Collette Dinnigan and food photographer Earl Carter. Think bold red accents and striking black-and-white photographs from the 1950s and ’60s that adorn the walls and add a touch of la dolce vita The menu, crafted by Perry with executive chef Richard Purdue (Margaret, ex-Rockpool, ex-Rosetta) and Margaret’s current head chef Ervin Mumajesi, champions seasonal produce from Perry’s trusted local suppliers. Dishes are kept authentic to highlight the freshest seafood and prime cuts of meat.  Photograph: Yusuke Oba Perry says: “The basis of all Italian cooking is to work with the seasons, so Gran Torino’s menu will reflect what’s av

Say yasou to Homer Rogue Taverna – Cronulla’s newest 100-seat Athenian restaurant and wine bar from local legends Harry and Mario Kapoulas (yep, the brothers behind HAM café). Fresh from a culinary journey through Athens (we’re sensing parallels to Homer’s The Odyssey), they’ve brought back the Greek capital’s culture and flavour to The Shire – minus the Mykonos clichés. RELATED READ: These are the best Greek restaurants in Sydney right now. Homer is gritty, grungy and gloriously unpolished – hence the ‘rogue’ in its name. The fitout is deliberately unpretentious; we’re talking industrial concrete, mid-century chairs, a graffitied wall and a glorious three-metre wine fridge you’re encouraged to explore yourself. The music is a vibe – you might even find a bouzouki player meandering between tables. The food? Made to share. Head chef Kirri Mouat (ex-Icebergs) and chef James Watson have eschewed fine-dining fare in favour of a menu full of Athenian attitude. There’s charcoal-roasted chicken souvla, spanakopita, hand-rolled dolmades, saganaki flatbreads and family recipes like Mum’s moussaka. Photograph: Trent van der Jagt Feeling adventurous? Try the koulouri sesame (Greek bagel) with tirokafteri dip, the beef stifado (stew) wrapped in crisp chicken skin to resemble a cigar, or baked manouri cheese in kataifi pastry drizzled with hot honey. Yep, that custom-built wood-fire oven is working overtime. To drink, there’s Greek coffee, ouzo and mini Martinis. The wine list has a goo

Calling all theatre lovers, there’s a new kid on the block to check out. Teatro, a new state-of-the-art theatre space, has officially opened its curtains in Sydney. This 300-seater venue in Leichhardt’s historic Italian Forum will set the stage for professional productions in the Inner West.  Taking its name from the Italian word for theatre, Teatro is the brainchild of international creative bigwigs, Nathan M. Wright and Andrew Bevis, who are on a mission to transform Sydney’s performing arts landscape.  Says Wright: “We’re creating the kind of theatre venue Sydney is crying out for – bold, professional and artist-led. Teatro is here to raise the bar for what audiences can expect from musical theatre in the Inner West.” From musicals and masterclasses to cabaret and comedy nights, Teatro will have a strong focus on nurturing homegrown talent and making theatre more accessible for all. Says Bevis: “We want Teatro to be a home for artists, audiences and everyone in between. We’re committed to providing a platform for emerging talent and creating a place that reflects the diverse, creative spirit of our community.” Photograph: Supplied First up, The Addams Family Musical, a fully staged production that’s set to open on October 3. This kooky-spooky Tony award-nominated musical will be brought to life by the stars of Theatre Bridge – Teatro’s in-residence training company. This production will offer audiences a first taste of the theatre’s commitment to championing the next gen

Looking for something new to do in the great outdoors? We’re here to help. Just north of Sydney, the Kangaroo Point Boardwalk in Brooklyn has just officially opened to the public. With gorgeous views along the Hawkesbury River, this elevated path meanders through mangroves, salt marshes, and bushland. Whether you're walking, riding, scooting or pram-pushing, you’ll love the serenity. Gather your crew and set off for a day out that’s just over an hour from Sydney’s CBD. Our tip: pack a picnic. Where is Kangaroo Point Boardwalk and how do you get there? You’ll find the Kangaroo Point Boardwalk in Brooklyn on the picturesque Hawkesbury River. It’s just over an hour’s drive north of Sydney’s CBD or a 20-minute drive from Wahroonga station. Don’t worry, there’s parking nearby. If you’re taking public transport, you’ll need to get the CCN (Central Coast and Newcastle) line to Hawkesbury River station in Brooklyn and walk from there.  How long is Kangaroo Point Boardwalk? The boardwalk itself stretches for one kilometre along the river foreshore between Kangaroo Point (south of Peats Ferry Bridge) and Seymours Creek (opposite Tom Richmond Oval). Even better? It links into a 3 kilometre continuous shared path that extends all the way from Baden Powell Avenue in Brooklyn Village to Kangaroo Point, making it perfect for a longer walk or ride. Designed to have minimal environmental impact, the elevated pathway protects delicate saltmarsh and mangrove ecosystems while offering a safe, fl

Parramatta is poised for growth – set to transform into a cultural and creative hub over the next 25 years. With a fast-growing population and a wave of major businesses moving in, it’s clear the area is on the rise. But with all this development comes the need for better housing and smarter transport. Transport for NSW has promised to bring to life a metro line that will take Sydneysiders from the CBD to Parramatta in 20 minutes flat in the form of the Sydney Metro West – and the people of Parra are waiting. In good news, there was tangible progress to celebrate earlier this week, with tunnel boring for the project now almost 90 per cent complete, and plans for the huge new metro station in the heart of "Sydney's second CBD" taking shape. After 17 months of grinding through solid rock, the tunnel boring machine (TBM) Dorothy – named after human rights advocate Dorothy Buckland-Fuller – finally broke through at Parramatta. You might recall her journey hit a snag recently, with a six-week delay caused by concerns over the depth of foundations at a nearby Telstra building. Meanwhile, TBM Betty – named after Australia’s Olympic sprinting legend Betty Cuthbert – has already started her final leg to Westmead, having left Parramatta in mid-July. Operating 24/7, both machines have excavated an incredible 1.25 million tonnes of sandstone over seven kilometres between Sydney Olympic Park and Parramatta.  Parramatta’s metro station site has been taking shape through a ‘cut-and-cover’ c

No, you’re not dreaming; your suburb really is being taken over by cavoodles, collies, cats and even cockatiels. If you live anywhere near a major city in Australia, chances are you, your neighbour or your barista has a furry (or feathered) friend. In fact, new research shows more than two-thirds (69 per cent) of Aussie households have one or more pets – putting Australia among the top pet-loving nations worldwide. Curious which Aussie suburbs are seriously pet-obsessed? Pet insurance provider Petsy has done the digging — read on to find out if your neighbourhood made the list! While Sydney might be known for its matchbox-sized apartments, it hasn’t deterred city dwellers from getting a pet. The inner-city suburb of Rosebery tied with beachy Maroubra for first place, while the bustling 'burbs of Alexandria (second), North Sydney (fourth), and Marrickville (fifth) rounded out NSW’s top five. Looks like high-rise apartment living hasn’t put a “paws” on pet ownership. In Victoria, it’s a similar story, with Melbourne City and Berwick (just outside the CBD) tied for first with the highest dog and cat populations. Other trendy spots like Preston, St Kilda and South Yarra also cracked the list. Meanwhile, over in Queensland, the Goldy is where pets reign supreme – Pimpama, Southport and Coomera have claimed their spots on the pet ownership leaderboard. In South Australia and Western Australia, where space isn’t tight, the trend flips – it’s all about suburbs with big backyards and

​​No, it’s not your imagination; there’s a proliferation of pugs, poodles, and pointers in certain Sydney neighbourhoods – not to mention doggy daycares and pet-walkers. Research shows that Australia has one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world; two-thirds (69 per cent) of Aussie households are now home to one or more pets. Pet insurance provider Petsy has compiled a list of Aussie suburbs that are the cat’s pyjamas when it comes to pet ownership – read on to find out if your area made the list. While Sydney might be known for its matchbox-sized apartments, it hasn’t deterred city dwellers from getting a pet. The inner-city suburb of Rosebery tied with beachy Maroubra for first place, while the bustling 'burbs of Alexandria (second), North Sydney (fourth), and Marrickville (fifth) rounded out NSW’s top five. Looks like high-rise apartment living hasn’t put a “paws” on pet ownership. These are the top NSW suburbs for pet ownership: Rosebery & Maroubra (equal first)  Alexandria Macquarie Park North Sydney Marrickville We think two factors can be pointed to for the boost in our pet population. Firstly, in August 2021, the NSW Government put an end to blanket bans on animals in strata buildings, allowing more owners and tenants to get a pet. Secondly, there’s the not-so-small matter of the pandemic that saw many Sydneysiders adding a furry friend to their families. In Victoria, it’s a similar story, with the busy suburbs of the Melbourne CBD, Preston, South Yarra

Residents of the Waverton area, we’ve got good news. After a few years of uncertainty, the NSW Government has confirmed that they’ll be transforming the historic Berrys Bay into a beautiful foreshore public park area. Over the years, Berrys Bay has been integral to Sydney’s maritime manufacturing industry – it’s where boats, yachts and launches were built and serviced for more than a century. In the 1990s, the site retired from its maritime role, and when it was earmarked as a Western Harbour Tunnel construction site, dreams for the site becoming a community space were put on hold. In 2022, advances in technology (including the use of the two largest tunnel boring machines in the Southern Hemisphere) meant that this makeshift construction site was no longer required, and now it’s been officially confirmed that the area will be opened up to the public. Photograph: Supplied | NSW Government The draft design of the park includes accessible foreshore pathways, family-friendly facilities like barbecues and play areas, as well as a new community pavilion. This joint effort by the state government, local North Sydney Council, and construction company Acciona aims to honour the area’s maritime history as well as its Aboriginal heritage, with an opening date yet to be confirmed. The opening of the park will mark the first time in more than 100 years that the park has been accessible to the public, with Minister for Roads Jenny Aitchison describing the vision to create “an inviting s

Looking for an immersive escape into Australia’s ancient past? You don’t have to travel too far. Up the NSW North Coast is Dorrigo National Park, a World Heritage-listed sanctuary that's part of the ancient Gondwana Rainforest. Renowned for its breathtaking waterfalls, walking tracks and elevated 'Skywalk' lookout, the park offers an unforgettable escape into incredible Aussie wilderness. Wander through dense rainforests filled with giant stinging trees (yes, really), vibrant birdlife and hidden rock pools, or join an Aboriginal cultural tour to connect with the rich Gumbaynggirr heritage of the area. What are the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia? The Gondwana Rainforests of Australia, which include Dorrigo National Park, are a living link to that prehistoric world. Spanning more than 40 protected areas from Queensland to NSW, these forests are known for their unique biodiversity and evolutionary history. Dorrigo National Park was added to the World Heritage List in 1986 for a number of reasons, including its ancient origins connecting it to the ancient Gondwana Rainforests. Where is Dorrigo National Park? Dorrigo National Park is one hour from Coffs Harbour on the NSW North Coast. How do I get to Dorrigo National Park? To get there from Sydney, travel north along the Pacific Hwy/A1. It should take you just under six hours for this 550-kilometre road trip. Don’t want to drive? You can also take the North Coast train that departs four times a day from Central Station and get

You’ve heard of Jackie Chan. Now meet Snacky Chans – an Inner West fusion den where Tokyo’s late-night vibes meet Sydney’s love of a good feed. Established in 2021 on Parramatta Road in Annandale, this spot has been beckoning locals with its neon-pink lighting, high-energy beats and great-value offers. It’s part ramen joint, part cocktail bar – and a whole lot of fun. What’s on the menu? Think Japanese flavours with a twist – from tempura tacos and miso pork ramen to house-made ponzu and fiery reaper oils. Speaking of rides, there’s a sushi train, too. Photograph: A La Carte Agency Some must-tries include the Wagyu nigiri, yuzu fried karaage chicken, barbecue pork buns and yakitori – some made to share, others like the ramen bowls to slurp solo. Cocktails include a Spicy Wasabi Bloody Mary and a refreshing Yuzu Margarita. The team says: “We wanted to create something that was fun, unexpected and unapologetically bold. It’s about taking the best parts of Japanese food culture and giving it a cheeky, Sydney-style remix.” Photograph: A La Carte Agency Want more? Snacky Chans has a bunch of cracking deals, including all-you-can-eat dumplings plus free-flowing Spritzes and beers on Saturdays for $79 per person. Pop in on Wednesdays for $6 bao buns, or Thursdays for $6 tacos and $15 Margs. Whether you’re dropping in for a midweek bite or kicking back with mates on a Friday night, Snacky Chans is your go-to for good times. Find out more here. Address: 143 Parramatta Rd, Annandal

Believe it or not, bartender-owned bars are surprisingly rare in Sydney – which is why we’re excited to see what hospo duo and owners Claudia ‘Beryl’ Morgan and Oliver Churcher have in store with Bar Demo. Located on Newtown’s pumping Enmore Road, the new spot is inspired by the casual, no-fuss wine bars you’d stumble upon in San Francisco, Berlin or Paris. Claudia and Olly first met while working at Sydney’s award-winning, ’70s-cool cocktail bar Double Deuce Lounge. He moved on to Café Paci and Bar Louise, while she worked at restaurants within the Bentley Group. Between late-night shifts, they often talked about opening a place of their own – somewhere relaxed where you could rock up for a drink, no reservation required and have a chat with the bar staff. Photograph: Katje Ford Claudia says, “We wanted somewhere open late where we could buy a bottle without sitting down for a meal, listen to some interesting music… a more modern take on a wine bar that’s not serious.” Olly adds, “As relative newcomers to the world of wine, we wanted to create a place where anyone feels welcome to try something new – even if they don’t know much.” True to that ethos, the wine list is grouped by mood rather than region – approachable, not intimidating – with plenty of excellent drops under $100. About a dozen or so rotating wines are available by the glass (in 100ml or 150ml pours). Expect a constantly changing selection from both international and Australian producers, with a strong lean t