Alison Rodericks

There are plenty of exciting new restaurant openings to add to your hit list. My current favourites include a yum new Turkish and Middle Eastern mezze bar in Redfern called Mezepotamia, Newtown’s charming new fisherman’s den, Mister Grotto; a fire-powered Mediterranean diner from the Bar Copains team called Bessie’s; and Marrickville’s new Greek grill house that’s 100 per cent worth the hype, Olympic Meats. Oh, and the five-star Neptune's Grotto. Below, you’ll find Sydney’s best new restaurants. Hungry? I am too. Let’s dig in. 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.

Autumn 2025 update: Not sure where the start of the year went? Same. Embrace the cooler weather with brekkie and a hot coffee at one of our fave Sydney cafés. My current picks include a delightful new spot from the Ursula’s Paddington team called Cafe Cressida, Manly’s go-to Noon, and the Euro-style Ken's Continental in Potts Point. 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.

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

Autumn 2025 update: Life in Sydney is fun and fabulous, but it can also be expensive. The good news is you can dine out affordably if you know where to look. Keep this guide handy next time your friends suggest a catch-up. As for me, I’ll be hitting up old-school Italian spot Bill & Toni's, Emma’s Snack Bar (found in my new ’hood, Enmore), and for banging tacos, I’m heading to Mami’s in Bondi. 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, including Food & Drink Editor Avril Treasure, 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.

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.

Believe it or not, another school holiday is just about to begin in NSW. And if the thought of keeping the kiddos entertained for the next two weeks sends you into a spiral, we have you covered –  with the ultimate round-up of activities and experiences happening in Sydney for kids and families this Easter.  There’s something here for the explorers, the budding scientists, the mini-athletes, the musical prodigies and just about everyone in between. 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 visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

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.

From specialty Sichuan spots to hot Cantonese kitchens, Sydney has some seriously great Chinese restaurants. Time Out Sydney's local food writers, including Food & Drink Editor Avril Treasure, 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

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.

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 is a detour, or your main destination, 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.

✍️ 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

Mark your calendars: celebrated chef Dan Hunter of Brae – the award-winning restaurant in regional Victoria – is teaming up with Danielle Alvarez for an exclusive four-night dining residency under the white sails this summer. Alvarez is the culinary director of the Sydney Opera House, a cookbook author (her Recipes for a Lifetime of Beautiful Cooking is one of our all-time faves), and the former head chef of dreamy Paddington diner, Fred’s. Excited? We are too. Called ‘Harvest of Purpose,’ the one-off event will take place in the stunning Yallamundi Rooms of the Sydney Opera House from January, 17-20 2025. If you’ve ever dreamt about dining at Brae, this is pretty damn close. Maybe even better. This dynamic duo is teaming up to showcase a six-course menu inspired by the chefs’ shared philosophy of sustainability and purpose-driven cuisine in Australia’s most iconic venue. Each dish will highlight local, ethically sourced, seasonal produce that celebrates the farmers, growers and landscapes that define our region. Set against the grid-worthy backdrop of Sydney Harbour, diners can enjoy a six-course meal for $450 per person, with the option to add organic, sustainably produced wine pairings by Handpicked Wines for $265 per person, or non-alcoholic pairings for $195 per person. Each guest will also receive a personalised gift, reflecting the event's ethos of sustainability and connection to the land. Renowned stylist Fiona Rae will transform the Yallamundi Rooms to reflect the n

Slick Japanese restaurant Oribu in Parramatta’s Heritage Precinct has not only scored itself three new head chefs – Jay Lee, Jaybert Teves and Bryan Paul Nery – but an all-new menu – Natsu no Yume  – that truly is a ‘summer’s dream’.  Chef Jaybert Teves (ex-Sokyo) is the sashimi maestro, chef Jay Lee (ex-Aria) brings fine-dining finesse, and chef Bryan Paul Nery spices things up with Southeast Asian vibes. In case you’re wondering, Oribu gets its name from the majestic olive tree front and centre of the indoor/outdoor restaurant, located on Church Street. Our hot tip? If you’re indulging in one of their set menus, go on a very empty stomach or wear stretchy pants. You have two options: the Oribu Signature Journey, and the more decadent Oribu Japanese Culinary Artistry, both of which take the greatest hits from the à la carte menu. The drinks menu features bold cocktails, like the punchy Wasabi Margin made with tequila, Cointreau, yuzu, fresh wasabi and cucumber. Back to the food. The Signature Journey tasting menu starts off with royal Miyagi oysters, mini sashimi, hiramasa kingfish carpaccio, ceviche, a crisp rice quartet, lotus chips and popcorn prawns – and that’s only the entreés. Every dish is a masterclass in plating and (almost) too pretty to eat. The more decadent Oribu Japanese Culinary Artistry takes things up a notch – think Oscietra black caviar on the oysters, and a choice between Hida A5 Wagyu or lobster tail for mains.  Prefer to mix and match? Oribu’s à la car

A while ago we told you about chef Chase Kojima and the plans he was hatching in Bankstown. Now, we can tell you that those plans have come to fruition with the opening of Tokyo Samba. Yes, the name says it all – it’s a Japanese-Brazilian restaurant that dares to be different. How so? Tokyo Samba’s food menu is halal-certified; its drinks menu is non-alcoholic. With a focus on shared plates, the menu blends the precision of Japanese techniques with the vibrant flavours of Brazil and Peru. At the heart of the kitchen is the Josper oven and grill, where premium cuts of meat and fish are seared to deliver bold, smoky flavours. Highlights include miso glacier 51 toothfish, lobster with kombu butter, and yakitori spatchcock. And because this is a Chase Kojima venue, you can expect top-notch sashimi and sushi, too. The alcohol-free drinks’ menu is curated to cater to the local community, offering non-alcoholic wines and mocktails that pair perfectly with the food on offer. Famed for his work at Sokyo at The Star and Nobu in The Bahamas, chef Kojima’s culinary résumé has spanned across restaurants in Las Vegas, Dubai and London. He’s joined by a stellar team, including head sushi chef Yul Kim (Sushi E and Bar Nine Omakase), sous chef Richard Ignatius Wijaya (Bennelong and Choji Yakiniku), and junior sous chef Kuan-Ting Lee (Attica and Oncore by Clare Smyth). With its inventive take and inclusive approach, Tokyo Samba promises a unique dining experience in the heart of Bankstown. St

Ahoy, there! Anglers and sailors alike will be glad to know that works are officially underway to rebuild the much-loved Fishermans Jetty in Mornington Harbour. The news comes off the back of two other Mornington Peninsula jetties – the Warneet North and South jetties – also receiving a fresh makeover. Living up to its name, Fishermans Jetty has been a favourite for casting a line or berthing a boat in the harbour. Originally built between 1880 and 1885, the jetty has been repaired one too many times over the years – and by 2020, it had deteriorated so badly that it had to be closed to the public. The Allan Labor government stepped in. As part of an $18 million investment in the 2022-23 Victorian budget, a project was developed to restore the area. It promises safe berthing access and improved public use, while supporting local tourism and creating jobs in the area. It’s a vital investment – Victoria’s local ports and piers contribute more than $900 million each year to regional and coastal economies through tourism, marine activities and commercial fishing. “The new jetty will provide safer access for anglers, boaters and tourists, continuing the momentum from completed projects around Port Phillip at Altona and the flagship $53 million St Kilda Pier redevelopment,” said minister for ports and freight, Melissa Horne. The first stage – dismantling and removing the old jetty – was completed in 2024. Construction of the new jetty began in April, with completion expected in the

There's nothing quite like going hiking by day and sitting around a crackling fire by night – getting off grid and connecting with nature. For many Australians, camping is one of the last affordable ways to get away. But it's about to become less affordable, as the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has proposed an overhaul of its pricing system across 365 campgrounds, the first significant change to its fee system since 2017. Why? To simplify bookings, standardise fees across all sites, and tackle big issues like “ghost camping” (that's when people book sites but don’t show up, which makes booking to camp difficult). The new tiered-pricing system would be based on facilities at any particular campsite. A basic bush clearing site in a national park would be free, while the next tier with pit toilets may cost $13 per night during low season and $22 during high season. Still not bad! That said, top-tier sites with showers, flushing toilets and barbecue facilities could jump to $89 per night during peak season (i.e. during school holidays). Photograph: Jem Cresswell/Destination NSW The issue of ghost camping is a big one – the low (or zero) cost of camping currently means that people book out a whole lot of spots, a long way in advance, that they may not even intend to necessarily show up for. And the NPWS says the change will bring fairness and transparency to a system where prices currently vary wildly. That said, of course there are critics of the new system – s

Remember the days of paper tickets and Metcards? Ahh, good memories. Then came the revolutionary new Myki system. Introduced in Geelong back in 2008, it was fully adopted across Melbourne’s public transport network by the end of 2012. But fast forward to 2025, and the Myki system is starting to show its age. Some of the current readers are nearing the end of their life, while others can’t be updated to support modern payment options. Yep, Melbourne’s public transport needs a digital refresh to meet the expectations of today’s commuters – and although it's been promised since 2023, we're yet to see any major changes. And we hate to say it, but look at Sydney where you can hop on a train, tram, ferry or bus using your credit card or mobile phone. While Melburnians do have mobile Myki on Android devices, iPhone users are still left out in the cold. That’s why, starting in early 2026, the Department of Transport and Planning will begin rolling out new tap-and-go technology across the network. That means you’ll soon be able to pay for your trip with Myki, mobile Myki, bank cards, smartphones and even other smart devices. Photograph: Sam Churchill The first step? A trial of brand new ticket readers at selected stations across Melbourne, including Upfield, Gowrie, Fawkner, Moreland, Footscray, Glenroy, Southern Cross, South Yarra and Seymour. If you’re passing through one of these, keep an eye out for the sleek new readers. During the trial, the new readers will still only accept

Gone on a work trip to Melbourne? Jetted off to Perth for a family wedding? Flew into the heart of Australia’s Red Centre? If you’ve travelled domestically from Sydney, chances are you’ve been caught in one of those long and winding queues at Sydney airport.  But good news is on the horizon. Major improvements are taking off at Sydney’s T2 domestic terminal as we speak. Sydney Airport is giving the T2 domestic terminal a much-needed upgrade – its first in over 30 years – and it’s all about getting you from your Uber or taxi drop-off to your boarding gate in 15 minutes flat. Yes, really! Built back in the days of Ansett (remember when it was our national carrier?) to handle just eight million passengers a year, Sydney airport was overdue for a revamp. There will be $200 million going into the upgrade that’s already under way, and it’s no small feat – with crew working round the clock to ensure minimal disruption to the current check-in system or flights.  The new-look terminal will feature next-gen security technology including advanced CT scanners. This means no more having to remove your laptops and liquids from your carry-on bags. Sweet. There’ll be seven processing lanes handling up to 500 passengers an hour – more than double the current flow – so that passengers can breeze through security.  Check-in is also getting a serious makeover. Expect 55 self-serve kiosks and smarter bag drop facilities that boost luggage processing capacity from 1,500 to 1,800 bags per hour by 2

Want to go from the river to the bay? The GreenWay – a new 6km corridor connecting the Cooks River in Earlwood to the iconic Bay Run at Iron Cove – is near completion. Winding along an old 100-year-old rail line, this ‘active corridor’ (non-motorised) has been designed for walking, cycling and scooting – with not a car in sight.  Plus, by the time the south-west Metro line opens in 2026, locals will have even more flexible options to get around, with the Dulwich Hill metro station acting as a major hub. The NSW government says these two projects will transform the way Sydneysiders and tourists engage with the Inner West. Suburbs like Dulwich Hill, Summer Hill, Lewisham, Haberfield and Lilyfield are all set to benefit from this verdant corridor.  It all started as a grassroots idea nearly two decades ago, by dedicated community groups and environmental advocates – and it turned into a $60-million project that transforms the old Dulwich Hill Goods Line and Hawthorne Canal. On completion, the tunnels and underpasses will create an uninterrupted route that will not only provide connectivity, but also culture – think parks and playgrounds, foreshore strolls, sporting facilities, public art, and even local cafés along the route. Inner West council Mayor, Darcy Byrne, says the GreenWay will transform the way people move in these areas. “We know that kids will use the GreenWay to get to school, either walking or on their bikes, that families will use it recreationally, and it’s also

With more twists and turns than a Netflix drama, North Sydney Olympic Pool is in deep water once again. This time, Icon, the construction company building the pool, is taking North Sydney Council to the NSW Supreme Court, suing them for a whopping $28 million in compensation due to delays and design changes.  It’s been 12 long years since the iconic North Sydney Olympic Pool was approved for redevelopment – yes, way back in 2013. Brewster Hjorth Architects were selected for the redesign in 2018, and Icon as the builder in 2020. If you recall, work was supposed to commence in 2021; then North Sydney Council called for an independent review as the original re-opening date swooshed past in November 2022. PwC completed the review in April 2023, giving their recommendations. The steel roof frame for the 25-metre indoor pool was torn down in October 2023 and Council proceeded to launch legal action against the architects in 2024. Last year, councillors voted for an 87 per cent rate rise for North Sydney residents to help pay for this pool project that’s been marred by budget blowouts  – from the original estimate of  $58 million to the current $122 million.   With us so far? Now, North Sydney Olympic Pool is mired in legal dramas once more, with the building company Icon suing North Sydney Council for $28 million in compensation. The builder claims that ongoing design changes and structural issues, particularly involving the indoor pool’s steel roof, caused major cost overruns and

When it comes to top-notch record stores, Melbourne is a true treasure trove. So when the UK’s Financial Times dropped its global list of the world's greatest record stores, we were chuffed (but not surprised) to see one of our city’s own holding court alongside some of the best of the best. Music-loving Melburnians will know this cult fave all too well. We’re talking about the one and only Greville Records – a local music institution that's been fuelling Melbourne's vinyl obsession for over four decades. It's a bonafide crate-digger's haven.  As its name suggests, it’s located on Greville Street (just off Chapel Street) in inner city Prahran and has been around since 1979. It made the list of 39 of the top purveyors of wax from around the globe, among other heavy-hitters like Cob Records in Wales, NYC’s Westsider Records, Paul’s Boutique in Krakow, and London’s Sounds of the Universe. Photograph: Greville Records Founded by Bill Tolson and now owned by Warwick Brown, this little record shop started as a punk and metal haven and has since evolved into an all-genre, all-eras haven. Venture inside Greville Records and you’ll have stepped into another world. Its gloriously crowded interiors are adorned with wall-to-wall vintage posters, crate upon crate of records, and must-have music paraphernalia.  Whether you’re hunting for the latest indie release, a soul classic, or an obscure film soundtrack, you’ll find it here. We’re talking retro rock, jazz, soul, blues, country, regg

Life in the big smoke isn’t for everyone, and we get it. Some simply have better things to do than battling peak-hour traffic, lining up for overpriced sandwiches, squashing onto sardine-can trains and fighting for a square of sand at the beach. During the pandemic, plenty of Aussies packed up city life and headed for the coast or the countryside. And the ‘tree-change’ and ‘sea-change’ trend is still going strong, with the cost of living crisis driving more and more people away from the expensive capitals. According to the latest Regional Movers Index published by Commonwealth Bank and the Regional Australia Institute, 35.6 per cent more Aussies moved from capital cities to regional towns in 2024. Relocations in the last quarter alone were nearly ten per cent above pre-pandemic levels and three per cent higher than a year ago. So, which regional towns are luring Aussies? The Sunshine Coast is still shining bright as the country’s most popular regional destination for movers, a title it’s held for the past two years. Topping the list for both city and regional dwellers, this sunny region accounted for ten per cent of all net internal migration in 2024, though that’s down from 17.5 per cent the year before. Photograph: Tourism and Events Queensland Chasing at its tail is Greater Geelong in Victoria, which now claims 8.5 per cent of net internal migration. Here, you can enjoy the coastal lifestyle without the Melbourne prices, and still be just an hour's train ride away if you

What do you get when you combine COVID with the cozzie livs crisis? A whole lot of Sydneysiders packing up city life and heading for the coast or the countryside. Yes, the pandemic sparked a mass migration of city slickers looking to swap peak-hour traffic and peak-price rentals for greener pastures, literally. And the ‘tree-change’ and ‘sea-change’ trend that kicked off during the pandemic is still going strong. A recent article in Money Mag reveals that city-to-region migration in Australia hit a two-year high. The drivers? Not surprisingly, it’s affordable housing. Plus job prospects, and the promise of a better way of life.  According to the latest Regional Movers Index published by Commonwealth Bank and the Regional Australia Institute, 35.6 per cent more Aussies moved from capital cities to regional towns in 2024, with relocations in the September 2024 quarter nearly 20 per cent above pre-pandemic levels and 1.8 per cent above the average recorded during the height of the lockdowns. Three NSW country towns luring Sydneysiders are Lake Macquarie, Maitland, and Orange.  Sydneysiders are swapping traffic snarls for lakeside tranquility in Lake Macquarie. It’s  just a 90-minute drive from the big smoke, but feels like a world away. With median house prices at a (somewhat) reasonable $899k and rental yields sitting pretty at 3.64%, its laid-back lifestyle calls out to you. Throw in a saltwater lake that’s perfect for SUP, friendly locals, and a buzzing coastal scene, and it

The name 40Res tells you exactly where you need to be: 40 Reservoir Street in Surry Hills. Swing by after a hard day’s work or for a relaxed weekend catch-up with mates and you’ll find a new neighbourhood wine bar with some top drops and seriously good share plates. Led by chef-owner Josh Raine (the former executive chef of Tetsuya’s, still at Canvas at the MCA) and head chef Michael Tran (formerly of The Bellevue and Clove Lane), 40Res takes fine dining finesse and gives it the laid-back ease of your favourite local. With both chefs having Michelin cred to their names – Raine at Pied à Terre; Tran at Hibiscus (both in London), this new venture is more casual and cosy so that the wine and food are the main focus. Nick De Lorenzo “It’s just super tasty food. Simple, but really, really good. It’s the kind of food we want to eat with a glass of wine,” says Raine. The snack-centric menu is inspired by their travels and childhood memories – but reimagined, of course. Take the fish fingers, for instance. They come with a rich mayo-style pil pil sauce made with trout skin and bones, garlic and olive oil – a perfect match for the fish. The cacio e pepe is made lighter with a delicate, cheesy foam instead of a cloying sauce. Want to dig into something more substantial? While the menu changes frequently to highlight what’s in season, you’ll always find a few staples such as pasta, a risotto, a fish of the day and a steak on the menu. Photograph: Nick De Lorenzo Getting to the all-i

Sydney’s transport systems are getting upgraded, and we’re not just talking about the ones on and under ground. Western Sydney International (WSI) airport is set to open in late 2026, promising a state-of-the-art $5.3 billion aviation hub with 24/7 operations – yes, no curfews like the ones Kingsford-Smith has in place. As construction progresses in Badgerys Creek and the Sydney Metro Western Sydney Airport project remains on track to open by 2027, a key question remains: can WSI attract enough international airlines to make it a global gateway? Intrigued? We got a sneak peek at the huge new airport. Despite its round-the-clock operations, WSI faces a significant regulatory hurdle – because it shares the same “primary gateway” classification as Sydney’s existing Kingsford-Smith airport, international airlines that have already hit their cap on Sydney flights aren’t permitted to land at WSI. In contrast, secondary airports like Adelaide and Darwin aren’t subject to these limits – a fact that’s frustrating international carriers like Qatar Airways that have called for reform.Internationally, only Singapore Airlines has committed to services from WSI and this won’t be enough to establish it as a global player. Airlines like Vietnam Airlines, Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and Turkish Airlines are all rumoured to be considering WSI since its catchment area aligns well with their core markets – with Western Sydney’s growing multicultural population a key draw for a lot of int

Splendour In The Grass? Cancelled. Falls Festival? Did not happen. Groovin the Moo? RIP. Music lovers across NSW mourned the day the music died for these fab festivals – but if you’ve packed away your gumboots and glitter, there’s good news. The NSW Government has just stepped in to help five music festivals avoid the fate suffered by many others forced to fold in recent years – and the revival of Spilt Milk is proof that things are on the up.  The first round of the Contemporary Music Festival Viability Fund, established in September 2024, has allocated a combined $2.25 million of emergency funding to five music fests. The lucky winners are Bluesfest in Byron Bay, Lost Paradise on the Central Coast, Yours and Owls in Wollongong, plus Listen Out and Field Day (both held in Sydney). Missed out on scoring funding for your favourite fest? Applications for the next round of funding open from May 1. Photograph: Supplied | Bluesfest Even before the pandemic, music festivals have felt the impact of rising costs, inflation, insurance nightmares, and changes in ticket buying, so this financial support has hit the right note in helping festivals manage costs while keeping the vibe alive.  After all, music festivals aren’t just fun – they’re big business, too. NSW’s festival scene supports over 14,000 jobs and pumps big bucks into local economies. Bluesfest, which was supposed to be in its final year this Easter long weekend, is proof of how ticket sales and financial help make such a