Alison Rodericks

Want to win ‘favourite child’ status this Father’s Day? Put down the novelty socks and jocks and give Dad what he really wants: quality time with you, good grub – and, a chance to crack those terrible dad jokes along the way. This year, Father’s Day in Australia falls on Sunday, September 6, so there’s still time to plan a special day that your dad deserves (or even an uncle, grandpa, father figure in your life). Whether Dad’s idea of bliss is an early-morning ocean swim, a lazy pub session, a trip to the fish markets, a brewery tour or dinner somewhere delicious, we’ve rounded up plenty of ways to celebrate the father figures in your life – with plenty of free/cheap options, too. 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 magical spots to see springtime blooms in NSW – from cherry blossom to tulips These are the best motels in NSW worth the roadtrip Sydney Harbour has a dreamy new wood-fired sauna – and the cold plunge is the ocean

There’s always time for tea – especially when it arrives on a tiered stand brimming with delectable bites. Whether you’re in it for warm scones piled with jam and cream (or cream and jam), delicate finger sandwiches, Champagne top-ups or pastries that look almost too pretty to eat, Sydney knows how to elevate the high tea experience. From heritage mansions and five-star hotels to hidden garden retreats and waterfront venues, the city serves up high tea in every style imaginable. Some stay true to timeless British tradition, while others put a distinctly modern spin on the ritual with bold flavours and playful themes. Time Out Sydney's writers and dedicated tea-lovers have sipped and sampled their way across the city to bring you the very best high teas in Sydney. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, spoiling Mum or catching up with friends, these are the high teas worth raising your pinky for. Cucumber sandwich, anyone? Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, travel inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. WANT MORE? Eat your way around Sydney's best cafés Wet your whistle at Sydney's best bars  Keep cosy at these Sydney pubs with fireplaces

Looking for a fab new restaurant to check out? You’ve come to the right place. The other week I went to Trattoria Da Orazio – a new Italian restaurant from chef Orazio D’Elia in Rushcutters Bay – and it was excellent (order the bombetta pugliese and whimsical dessert platter). Surry Hills fine diner Arthur has reopened after a big reno – still serving a 100 per cent Aussie menu across food and drinks, now in a more accessible way (and a happy hour with $3 prawns!). And you need to make a booking at Ashe – the new Southeast Asian grill from the Bentley Group, led by talented chef Khanh Nguyen. It’s my pick of the new openings of 2026 so far. 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.

Some of Sydney’s best eats are found in this lively part of the city, from a smoky Egyptian steeet food spot to New York-style diners and a moody izakaya that looks straight out of Tokyo. Time Out Sydney's local food writers, including 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

Sydney has a bewildering range of eateries and cuisines, with almost every style of restaurant and region of the world represented. Many of them are looking to serve you and the people of Sydney for the cheapest price possible, you just need to know where to look. Choosing the best cheap eats is like picking the greatest songs ever made, there are countless options, and everyone will have a different opinion. Compiled by a team of local Time Out experts, this list brings together eateries from all regions of Sydney, with each pick being an outstanding option for that cuisine or style of eating. It’s not the cheapest meals in Sydney, but the best affordable options. We’ve tried, as best as possible, to include only venues where you can get a meal for one for under $25. 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 glitzy musicals and Shakespearean reimaginings to fresh new plays and laugh-out-loud comedies, Sydney’s theatre scene is packed with reasons to put down the remote and head out. Whether you're after a big night out, a thought-provoking drama or a show that'll leave you grinning all the way home, these are the best theatre shows and musicals to see in Sydney this month. Did you know Australia’s last remaining pub theatre is right here in Sydney? Found below Woolloomooloo's 150-year-old Old Fitzroy Hotel, the Old Fitz Theatre is the place for boundary-pushing shows from some of the city's most talented creatives. If you find yourself with a free night and feel like something different – and supporting indie work – check out what's on here. Scroll on for the best musicals, plays and more to see in Sydney this month. RELATED READS: It’s guaranteed laughs galore at the Comedy Store Make Tuesdays more fun with this affordable comedy show in the Inner West

Sydney's love affair with Indian food runs deep – and with one of the largest Indian diasporas in Australia calling the city home, it's never tasted better. Nowhere is that more evident than in Harris Park, AKA Sydney's Little India, where the scent of spice lingers in the air. But beyond this western Sydney hotspot, there are exceptional Indian restaurants from the CBD to the Northern Beaches. Sydney's best Indian restaurants will make you forget the notion that Indian cuisine begins and ends with butter chicken. After all, India is a country where every region has its own culinary identity. You can feast on crisp dosas and fluffy idlis at cheap and cheerful South Indian chains like Saravanaa Bhavan and A2B, discover bold Bengali flavours at Kolkata Social or try something new at inventive restaurants like Flyover Fritterie and Sketch Manly that are giving traditional recipes a contemporary spin without losing sight of their roots. Of course, there are the stalwarts like Urban Tadka, Abhi's and Nilgiri's that have consistently served some of the finest Indian food for years together. Whether you're craving a budget-friendly thali or modern flavours that rewrite the rules, Sydney’s Indian restaurants deliver. Come hungry – and wear stretchy pants. 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 cheap eats in Sydney to try today Sydney's mega museum, Powerho

Australia is a nation rich with incredible artists and mind-blowing exhibitions. Whether you favour sculpture, painting, photography or textiles, there’s something for every kind of artistic persuasion ready to pop off at Australia’s biggest art exhibitions in 2026. We've rounded up just a few Aussie wonders that have us pre-booking flights in eager anticipation.  A winter standout is the never-seen-before-in-Australia glittering jewel collection from Cartier at the NGV, along with the blockbuster Monet to Matisse exhibition in Adelaide. Scroll on for our pick of the best art exhibitions in Australia in 2026. Our editors will update this guide as new exhibitions are announced. 🖼️ The best art galleries in Australia👀 The best museums in Australia

Noosa might be best known for its golden beaches and relaxed coastal charm, but it’s dining scene is just as impressive. The resort town has no shortage of excellent eateries that buzz with locals and travellers from dusk until well after dawn. Many of the trendiest restaurants line the iconic Hastings Street, with the fanciest spots sitting mere metres from the golden sands of Main Beach. Meanwhile, waterfront institutions in Noosaville showcase the region’s finest seafood, and Noosa Junction brings a laid-back mix of global flavours – from French crêpes and fluffy bao buns to woodfired pizzas. Our Travel & News Editor Melissa Woodley has visited Noosa multiple times and knows the perfect spot for every occasion – whether you’re after a romantic dinner, a breezy beachside lunch or a special occasion feast. Take your pick from this ultimate list of the best restaurants in Noosa. Editor's favourite restaurants in Noosa: 💎 Best for views: Season Restaurant ⭐️ Best new opening: Cibaria Noosa 🍽️ Best for groups: Light Years 🌊 The best things to do in Noosa🍽️ The best restaurants on the Sunshine Coast

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 Editor Avril Treasure. We'll have one B&E roll, please.  Editor's picks: 🍳 Best for scrambled eggs: Piña 💚 Best for matcha: Parami 💥 Best for trying a new café: Adelaide’s Kitchen 🥞 Best for pancakes: Happyfield ☕️ Best for on-point coffee: Primary Coffee Roasters 🐶 Best for breakfast with your dog: Havenstone Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Is it lunch time? Check out our guide to Sydney's best restaurants right now.

Politicians, wineries, roundabouts, museums, Floriade. They're probably the first things that spring to mind when you think of Canberra. But how about steak? Australia's capital is a surprisingly excellent place to sink your teeth into a top-quality cut. Backed by exceptional local produce and easy access to some of the country's finest beef from surrounding farming regions, Canberra has quietly built a reputation for serving seriously good steak. Whether you're craving premium Wagyu cooked over Japanese robata charcoal, a perfectly charred rib-eye from a wood-fired grill or a classic steakhouse feast with all the trimmings, the city delivers. To help you find Canberra's best steaks, our local writers have curated this list of spots that are truly worth the splurge. Editor's favourite steak restaurants in Canberra: ✨ Best special occasion steak: Raku 🍻 Best pub grub steak: Kingston Hotel 🥩 Best pepper steak: Otis  🍱 The best Japanese in Canberra🥘 The best Indian food in Canberra

However you like your steak – medium-rare or well done – Darwin serves them up with plenty of Top End character. Whether it's a premium cut kissed by flames, a juicy rib eye fresh from the grill, or a hearty pub meal with all the trimmings, the Northern Territory's steak scene packs a punch. Expect everything from relaxed waterfront restaurants and modern bistros to classic local pubs where great beef is always on the menu. Pair it with a robust glass of red, a cold beer or a tropical sunset, and you've got one heck of a meal. To help you find the very best cut, we turned to local writer Alley Pascoe, who knows Darwin's dining scene inside out. Here’s her pick of the restaurants, bistros and pubs serving some of the best steaks in Darwin. Editor's favourite steaks in Darwin: 🥩 Special-occasion steak: Pee Wee’s at the Point ✨ Steak done differently: Moorish Café 💰 Affordable meal deal: Lizards Bar and Restaurant 🍔 The best burgers in Darwin🍕 The best pizza joints in Darwin

If a trip to London isn’t on the cards, you can still get a taste of one of its cultural icons right here in Sydney. The Museum of Contemporary Art Australia (MCA) is joining forces with London’s Tate International for Connections: MCA x Tate, a landmark exhibition celebrating one of the most significant international partnerships in Australian contemporary art. Open until March 1, 2027, the exhibition brings together works acquired through the MCA and Tate International Joint Acquisition Program, alongside works from the MCA Collection and newly commissioned pieces. Together, they explore Australia’s ancient and recent cultural histories through a powerful First Nations lens. The joint acquisition program ran from 2015 to 2022, made possible by a $2.75 million gift from the Qantas Foundation. It enabled 35 significant works by 24 Australian artists to enter the collections of two major international institutions, helping bring Australian contemporary art to audiences around the world. The partnership first made waves at Tate Modern in 2021 with A Year in Art: Australia 1992, which attracted almost 1.5 million visitors. It also supported Richard Bell’s acclaimed Embassy, presented in Tate Modern’s Turbine Hall in 2023. Curated for an Australian audience, Connections: MCA x Tate explores cultural exchange, trade, migration, travel and diaspora, while examining the long-lasting impact of British colonisation. First Nations artists are at the heart of the exhibition, with works

Get ready to step into the wonderfully weird world of Takashi Murakami, the renowned Japanese contemporary artist who founded the ‘Superflat’ movement in 2000. Opening at the Art Gallery of New South Wales on December 5, Takashi Murakami: When the Mountain is High, the Moon Rises Higher is the artist’s first Australian retrospective, presented exclusively in Sydney as part of the 2026–27 Sydney International Art Series. Spanning more than 30 years of Murakami’s career, the exhibition brings together more than 150 works, many never previously seen in Australia. Expect everything from giant smiling flowers, colourful anime characters, enormous paintings and sculptures to video and immersive installations, charting the artist’s fascination with the intersection of tradition, technology, fantasy, commerce and popular culture. At the heart of the exhibition are two immersive environments: a darkened gallery centred on Hexagonal Double-Helix Tower (Rokkaku Rasendō), surrounded by monumental paintings of Kyoto’s four guardian deities – the dragon, tiger, phoenix and tortoise. Further on, a dazzling golden room, with gilded walls and floors, sets the scene for lavish paintings and a golden sculpture inspired by five centuries of Japanese art history. Murakami’s spectacular large-scale paintings are another highlight, including Japan Supernatural, Dragon in Clouds – Indigo Blue and Cherry Blossoms Fujiyama JAPAN. At 25 metres long, Judgement Day is the largest painting in the exhibit

Need an excuse to visit Orange? Consider this your invitation. From October 16–25, the Orange Wine Festival gives you ten days of more than 40 wine-fuelled events, from long lunches and lively night markets to tastings and masterclasses to enjoy. So, what makes Orange wine so special? It’s all about the altitude – and a little bit of attitude. Vineyards climb from around 600 to more than 1,000 metres above sea level, making this Australia’s highest wine region. Perched on the slopes of Mount Canobolas / Gaanha Bula, they benefit from cool nights, a long growing season and rich volcanic soils, creating distinctive cool-climate wines. During the festival, the region’s winemakers, vignerons, sommeliers, chefs and restaurateurs throw open their doors for a taste of Orange – and there’s far more on the menu than a standard cellar-door visit. 16 October | Night MarketsStart the festival with a stroll through Robertson Park, glass in hand, as local winemakers pour their award-winning wines and chefs dish up the best of Orange produce. Expect good food, good wine and a very good Friday. 23 October | Sip & Savour: The Ultimate Wine TastingYou’ll be spoilt for choice with more than 300 wines, including the 2026 Orange Wine Show winners, gathered under one roof at the Agricultural Pavilion.  23 October | 2026 Orange Wine Show Trophy MasterclassTaste the trophy-winning wines of the 2026 season while an Orange winemaker takes you behind the bottle, sharing the stories and secrets that mak

Here’s something that’s sure to tug at your heartstrings. Lifelike celebrates the extraordinary magic of puppetry on screen, inviting you behind the scenes at ACMI from November 20. It’s your chance to discover how some of cinema and television’s most memorable characters are brought to life. Featuring original puppets, concept art, production sketches and rarely seen behind-the-scenes material, the exhibition brings together screen worlds from Pinocchio, Anomalisa, Jurassic Park, The Dark Crystal, Labyrinth, the Alien series and Jim Henson’s The Muppets, alongside famous Aussie icons like Agro and Ossie Ostrich. Explore the evolution of puppetry through the beloved story of Pinocchio, including a wooden version from the 1970s and the original Pinocchio and Geppetto puppets from Guillermo del Toro’s 2022 stop-motion film. Step into Charlie Kaufman’s wonderfully weird worlds with marionettes from Being John Malkovich, then unleash your inner puppeteer in a hands-on Muppets-inspired sing-along. And be transported to a nostalgic world of 1980s and 1990s Australian television, with puppets and screen content from Hey Hey It’s Saturday, Agro and The Ferals. Fans of Jim Henson can also get up close to original puppets including Sesame Street’s Sherlock Hemlock, Brad and Bertha, while concept sketches and screen content from The Muppet Show, The Dark Crystal and Labyrinth reveal the artistry behind these much-loved creations. Prefer your puppetry with a side of terror? Discover the

Chances are, you – or someone close to you – grew up with a Barbie doll. Perhaps it was Malibu Barbie, Astronaut Barbie, Day-to-Night Barbie or Air Force Pilot Barbie.  Now, you can take a trip down memory lane at Barbie: The Exhibition at Melbourne Museum. Making its Australian debut on November 28, the exhibition brings together more than 250 Barbie dolls along with their outfits, accessories, vehicles and furniture. Spanning 67 years of history, it was created by London’s Design Museum in partnership with Mattel, and explores how a doll first launched in 1959 became one of the most recognisable toys in the world. And there are some seriously special Barbies to meet. We’re talking the ultra-rare Number 1 Barbie from 1959, complete with hand-painted features and instantly recognisable black-and-white striped swimsuit. You can also peek inside the very first Barbie Dreamhouse from 1962, see the famously big-haired Totally Hair Barbie, check out a Talking Barbie prototype and even spend time with Ken. And you'll be glad to learn that Barbie isn’t stuck in 1959. The exhibition charts her evolution alongside changing ideas about fashion, beauty, identity and representation, with dolls reflecting different skin tones, body types, hairstyles, physical traits, neurodivergence and health conditions. So, whether you’re a lifelong Barbie fan, a collector, or simply curious about the doll who has been part of your childhood, Barbie: The Exhibition promises a fascinating look into her w

Love video games? You’re invited to step inside one at ACMI, where acclaimed Chinese artist Feng Mengbo transforms modern Chinese history into a surreal, interactive adventure. Presented by ACMI and the City of Melbourne’s Now or Never festival, Feng Mengbo: Long March Restart reimagines China’s rapid 20th century modernisation through this retro video game. Inspired by the Long March of 1934-36 (the military retreat of the Chinese Red Army that helped establish Mao Zedong’s rise to power), the artwork takes history into unexpected territory. Visitors can guide a Red Army soldier across two giant screens, navigating a pixelated world filled with supernatural creatures, pop culture characters and historical references. The soldier is armed with an unlikely weapon: Coca Cola cans. The visuals draw on iconic 1980s games including Super Mario Bros. and Street Fighter II, while the different levels weave together historical landmarks, Cold War science fiction and retro video game imagery. Feng, who grew up during China’s Cultural Revolution and the later period of economic reform, is a pioneering figure in Chinese digital and interactive art. Feng Mengbo: Long March Restart reflects his fascination with how technology and popular culture can reshape the way we understand history. 'Feng Mengbo: Long March Restart' is on now until January 31, 2027, in the foyer near the ACMI Shop. Entry is free; no bookings are required. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne ne

Hello, possums! Would you like to see one of Dame Edna Everage's costumes? How about those iconic gold hot pants that Kylie Minogue wore in ‘Spinning Around’? Perhaps the maracas that Peter Allen shook in his 1977 performance of ‘I Go To Rio’ or Midnight Oil drummer Rob Hirst’s beloved drum kit? You’re in luck because 50 extraordinary pieces of Australian performing arts history are back in the spotlight at Encore! 50 Objects. 50 Years. One Collection. This exhibition at the Australian Museum of Performing Arts (AMPA) runs from September 16 to May 9, 2027. Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Australian Performing Arts Collection, it showcases the people, performances and productions that have shaped Australia’s cultural history. It is the country’s largest specialist collection of its kind, preserving more than 850,000 objects spanning circus, dance, music, opera and theatre. You’ll also find Helen Reddy’s Grammy Award for ‘I Am Woman’; a personal visual journal compiled by Nick Cave in 1987; the original neon-red L’Amour sign created by Baz Luhrmann and Catherine Martin for Opera Australia’s La Bohème; costumes worn by Olivia Newton-John and Hugh Jackman; signed pointe shoes worn by the first Indigenous person to join the Australian Ballet, Ella Havelka; Archie Roach’s custom-made performance vest; and Dame Nellie Melba’s jewel-encrusted silk cloak – and that's just to name a few. From the tulle gown worn by legendary performer Dame Joan Sutherland to cheeky characters

If your knowledge of American football begins and ends with the Super Bowl, halftime shows and Travis Kelce, consider this your introduction to the NFL. The MCG is gearing up for the first-ever regular-season NFL game to be played in Australia, with the Los Angeles Rams going head-to-head with the San Francisco 49ers on September 11. And to celebrate the momentous event, the NFL Kickoff Festival will also be taking place.  From September 10-12, Melbourne Park will host a three-day celebration of all things American football, presented by American Express and Live Nation. The festival is designed to bring the sport to life with interactive experiences, live entertainment and plenty of American food. There will be NFL exhibits, team activations, retail pop-ups, Flag Football clinics (a fast-growing, non-contact version of the game), official watch parties and live music. Sports fans can snap a photo with the Vince Lombardi Trophy (given to the winners of the Super Bowl) and all 60 Super Bowl championship rings, while NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell will appear for a live Q&A. On the music front, a stacked line-up of local artists has been announced. Peking Duck, Sneaky Sound System, Kita Alexander, Hot Dub Time Machine, Grinspoon and Public Figures are all locked in to perform. And if you have been lucky enough to score tickets to the big game, the Jonas Brothers will be performing live as part of the official halftime show. And you won’t go hungry – an American food village w

Ever wonder what goes on behind the closed doors of Parliament House? Housework, a bold political satire, pulls back the curtain on the backroom deals, personal dramas and ruthless ambition that fuel political life in Canberra. Written by Emily Steel and directed by Shannon Rush, this black comedy by Sydney Theatre Company stars Susie Youssef (Deadloch) as first-time MP Ruth Mandour, alongside Emily Taheny (Mad as Hell) as her overworked chief of staff, Anna Cooper and media personality Indira Naidoo who is making her STC debut.  Steel drew on conversations with politicians, political staff and parliamentary workers while researching the play, particularly exploring the experiences of women navigating Australian politics. With sex scandals and secrets, motherhood and manipulation, culture wars and chaos thrown into the mix, the play offers a telling glimpse into the machinations of Australian politics. Following its Adelaide season, Housework arrives at the Sydney Opera House’s Drama Theatre from September 5 to October 17, promising a whip-smart sprint through the corridors of power. Get your tickets here. RECOMMENDED:  Here’s what’s on in Sydney this weekend Our list of the best theatre to see in Sydney this month Sydney's most famous building is set for major event reforms

Love munching on macadamias? Ever tried kangaroo steak sprinkled with mountain pepperberry? How about lemon myrtle in your tea, a dollop of Davidson plum jam, finger lime over oysters, wattleseed in muffins or saltbush as a seasoning? It's your chance to try these extraordinary native flavours at the second Australian Native Food Festival, taking over Carriageworks in Eveleigh on September 27-28. Curated by Sharon Winsor, a proud Weilwan woman from north-west NSW and founder of Indigiearth, this free festival celebrates Indigenous culture while shining a spotlight on the oldest cuisine on earth. Learn about native ingredients as you sample your way across 30 market stalls by First Nations businesses. There’s everything from native spices and wild teas to bush beauty products, chocolate, jerky and aromatherapy. You can also try your hand at traditional weaving with Ngumpie Weaving, or book a one-on-one Ngangkari Healing Treatment Session with Pitjantjatjara healer Debbie Watson. Food lovers are in for a treat with impressive collaborations between Indigenous and non-Indigenous chefs and advocates. 2024 MasterChef Australia winner Nat Thaipun will explore her Thai culinary heritage through the lens of native flavours, while Lucy Tweed and Kakadu Kitchen founder Ben Tyler will share simple, practical ways to bring Australian ingredients into your everyday cooking. Chef Kylie Kwong joins Gamilaroi Elder Aunty Beryl Van-Oploo OAM for a special cooking demonstration, while Sharon W

If your idea of heaven is discovering a chilli oil you can’t live without, tasting a seriously funky blue cheese or finding a new favourite small-batch gin, The Little Food Market is calling your name. Making its Sydney debut at Carriageworks from August 21–23, this foodie fiesta brings together more than 180 of Australia’s best artisan food and drink producers. Expect everything from black garlic, and premium olive oils to pantry staples, handcrafted pastries, award-winning smallgoods and good-for-your-gut fermented foods. There’s plenty for gluten-free, plant-based and non-alcoholic options, too. The Feasting area is serving up dishes from some of Sydney’s most exciting kitchens. Tuck into crispy pumpkin fritti with hot honey and manchego (Attenzione Food & Wine); Constantinople-style pita souvlaki (Olympic Meats); Japanese ochazuke, bento boxes and yuzu cheesecake (Tento); woodfired pizza (Lucio Pizzeria); and Japanese onigiri (Mogu Mogu). Then there’s The Stage, hosted by Tawnya Bahr and Lucy Allon of Straight To The Source, where chefs, producers and food experts take over with free cooking demonstrations and tastings. Look out for pastry chef Christopher Thé (Hearthe) unveiling the latest iteration of his famous Strawberry Watermelon Cake – which you will get to sample later (yay!); chef George Calombaris championing Greek heritage and seasonal produce; writer Mike Bennie focusing on small batch wines; and Pepe Saya’s Melissa Altman and Pierre Issa who first started sel

Have you heard of Ferragosto? It's an Italian national holiday on August 15, originally commemorating Emperor Augustus. Nowadays, it marks the height of summer with locals heading to the coast or mountains for a break. If you can't make it to the Amalfi Coast this Euro summer, you can enjoy your Aperol Spritz and antipasti while you soak up la dolce vita right here in Sydney. Ferragosto returns to Five Dock on Sunday, August 16, and you’re invited to the festa. Running from 10am to 5pm along Great North Road, this celebration of Italian food, culture and community promises a full day of fun and feasting. More than 150 food and market stalls will dish up everything from arancini and cannoli to pasta and panini. There’s also heaps of stalls with artisan goods, boutique fashion and handmade treasures, plus gelato for the bambini, along with free rides and a petting zoo to keep them entertained. Speaking of which, music and entertainment will take over three stages, while roving performers bring the vibe. For the grown-ups, Garfield Street transforms into Terrazza Aperol, an orange-hued oasis serving Aperol Spritz, while FerraCinCin is the place to raise a glass in the Italian wine and beer garden – Birra Moretti, anyone? Rev heads can make a beeline for the Italian vehicle displays, featuring everything from gleaming Ducatis to classic Mini Fiats. And leave the car at home – free shuttle buses will run continuously from surrounding suburbs between 9.30am and 5.30pm. Ferragosto c

When beloved vegan bakery Miss Sina shut up shop in Marrickville, its plant-based followers were bereft. From where would they get their vegan cinnamon bun fix? Thankfully, Miss Sina has found a new home in Dulwich Hill, opening its doors on Marrickville Road in early June. The bakery is the brainchild of Sina Klug and her husband Jacques Dumont, who also created the gluten-free and vegan Nutie Donuts (now closed). Miss Sina was born from Sina’s desire to create exceptional vegan pastries – yes, everything here is 100 per cent plant-based. Not that you’d even realise after scoffing down a pastry or pie.  Expect handcrafted cinnamon buns, freshly baked bagels, artisan pastries, gourmet donuts, celebration cakes and all-day brunch, with the much-loved banana pudding and Nutie-style donuts still making an appearance. Photograph: Supplied/Miss SinaMiss Sina treats And there’s a particularly delicious reason to visit for the last few days of August. Inspired by Dulwich Hill’s strong Greek community, Miss Sina has launched a Greek-inspired menu. Think baklava donuts, bougatsa danishes, portokalopita, prasopita pies and freddo cappuccinos, all given that signature Miss Sina twist. Grab a coffee from fellow Inner West business Blackmarket Coffee Roasters, settle in for brunch or simply watch the pastry chefs at work in the open kitchen. With community dinners, book clubs and other events on the horizon, Miss Sina is shaping up to become a delicious new addition to the Dulwich Hill

Western Sydney International Airport (WSI) is inching closer to take-off, with the first Sydney Metro – Western Sydney Airport Line train having just arrived in Sydney from Europe. Unlike Sydney’s existing metro trains, this new fleet has been designed with airport travellers in mind. The biggest difference? Space. The carriages are 30 centimetres wider, creating wider aisles so passengers can wheel suitcases, carry backpacks and move through the train with ease. There’s also dedicated luggage storage beneath seats, flexible spaces for bags, bikes and prams, plus wider platforms and station gates to make the airport journey smoother from start to finish. Passengers will also be able to check live flight information on digital screens with updates linked directly to WSI Airport once the line opens. The 23-kilometre, six-station metro line will connect communities across Western Sydney with the new airport precinct, which is already taking shape with the recent opening of its cargo hub. The Sydney Metro – Western Sydney Airport Line will feature a mix of tunnel, viaduct and surface-level track. Inside the trains, passengers will find a combination of familiar longitudinal seating along the sides of the carriages, plus front and rear-facing seats. The first train is currently housed in a maintenance facility at Orchard Hills near Penrith and is due to begin dynamic testing on a section of the line. Once services commence, 12 airport trains will run every hour, carrying up to 7,

In news that's definitely worth howling about, Dogs Victoria has just unveiled plans for a $12 million expansion of KCC Park in Skye. This ambitious redevelopment of the park – which is located about 35 kilometres southeast of Melbourne's CBD – will see it become the largest dedicated dog facility in the Southern Hemisphere when it opens in early 2027. Woof! All 30 hectares of KCC Park will be devoted to our four-legged friends as it transforms into a community-focused dog recreation precinct. We’re talking six purpose-built off-lead zones tailored to different dog sizes (plus different dog breeds and different temperaments), quiet zones for dogs who are not very social, a five-kilometre walking track, grooming facilities, plenty of space for canine sports, a doggy daycare and even a lake for dogs who like to doggy-paddle.  Given that so many of us are proud pooch owners, this is a much-needed facility. Dogs Victoria will introduce a new community program, giving all Victorian dog owners access to purpose-built facilities, education programs, activities and dog sports that were previously reserved only for members. The project marks a major milestone for the organisation, which is focused on improving the wellbeing of dogs, supporting responsible dog ownership and creating a place where dogs (and their humans) can exercise and socialise. Dogs Victoria hopes to officially open the revitalised KCC Park precinct in early 2027.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Me

Combine your love of the great outdoors with your passion for running at the Parklands Trail Running Festival. Taking place on September 20 at Lizard Log in Western Sydney Parklands, the festival features four distances – 6km, 11km, 20km and 32km – so whether you're tackling your very first trail run or chasing a new PB, there's a course with your name on it. Never done a trail run before? It’s very different to a road race like, say, the City2Surf (August 9) or the Sydney Marathon (August 30). Instead of pounding the pavement, you’ll be immersed in nature as you weave through towering trees, dense bushland and rolling hills. Yes, you’ll be huffing and puffing, but the verdant views and fresh air more than make up for those uphill climbs.  Get there by 6am (you'll need to drive – public transport options are limited) to collect your race bib before the first runners set off at 7am. But not before a lively Calmsley Hill Farm Whip Show, where skilled farmers show off their whip-cracking skills. Cross the finish line and you'll be rewarded with an event T-shirt, a finisher's medal, post-race refreshments, sponsor giveaways and an official finisher certificate. Yay! Entries are already filling fast, so organisers Race Hub Australia are encouraging runners of all abilities to secure their spot and take advantage of early-bird pricing. Register now. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, travel inspo and activity ideas, straight to your i

‘Delmonte’ is Italian for ‘from the mountains’; at Carlton's just-opened Delmonte restaurant, the name is a nod to the history, heritage and hospitality of Valli del Pasubio in Italy’s mountainous Veneto region. After all, owner Jamie Valmorbida’s grandfather Carlo was born there. When he moved to Melbourne, Carlo took over the heritage-listed King and Godfree building on Lygon Street in 1955, shaping it into an iconic food destination.  Delmonte has just opened its doors inside this very same building, returning to those Italian roots of community, food and wine. The second of three new venues from hospo entrepreneur Valmorbida, this 120-seater (with room for 40 outside) marks the next chapter in the revival of this historic landmark, which earlier saw the opening of Garfield Pizzeria.    Photograph: SuppliedDelmonte Delmonte leans into something slower and more soulful: a neighbourhood Italian restaurant and wine room built around woodfired cooking and exceptional wine. At its heart is a wood oven and grill, setting the tone for a menu that’s grounded in the simplicity of a classic Italian osteria, yet open to a more modern interpretation.  “We’ve built the sort of place we'd want to go ourselves,” says owner Valmorbida. “Delmonte is Carlton’s new local. Somewhere you can come in for one drink and end up staying for dinner.” Leading the kitchen is head chef Diana Desensi from Daphne (ex-Saint George, Julie, Pt Leo Estate), who also worked alongside culinary director Karen

Love hopping on the Sydney Metro because it gets you from A to B in a flash? Us, too. Always admire the architecture and aesthetic appeal of Gadigal but you’re too busy dashing off to work to find out the story behind it? Same.  You now have a chance to learn the story behind the Sydney Metro thanks to Metro Below, a fascinating two-hour guided walking tour that dives into the design, engineering and architecture that have brought the Sydney Metro to life. Led by guides, you'll explore the public areas of several stations while learning how the tunnels were carved beneath our city streets and skyscrapers; why every station looks and feels different; and how clever design keeps millions of passengers moving safely and efficiently. You'll also get the inside scoop on the driverless trains, platform screen doors and technology that powers the Metro. Along the way, your guide will point out features you've probably rushed tons of times – from the architectural features to the public artworks that connect each station with its neighbourhood.  The tour starts at the entrance to Waterloo Metro Station, where you'll meet your guide (look for the hi-vis vest), and finishes around two hours later at Victoria Cross Metro Station in North Sydney. Our tip? Make sure to have a bite at the many new cafés and restaurants around North Sydney post-tour.  Don't forget to bring a valid Opal card, debit or credit card to tap on and off the Metro, wear comfy walking shoes, carry water and a fully

It’s Vegas, baby! Qantas has announced it is launching non-stop Sydney to Las Vegas flights this year. From December 29, 2026, the Flying Kangaroo will run this seasonal service until March 12, 2027, with flights departing three times a week on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays. The airline's Boeing 787 Dreamliner will ensure you’re there in just under 14 hours – that’s a saving of five hours compared with current one-stop itineraries.  Flight QF55 leaves Sydney at 9pm and lands in Las Vegas at 3.55pm local time – giving you plenty of time to hit the Strip (don't miss the Bellagio fountains), catch a show or head straight for the blackjack and buffet. The new route marks Qantas's 101st destination and its fifth mainland US city, joining Los Angeles, San Francisco, Dallas and New York. Of course, there's far more to Vegas than casinos and neon lights. The city hosts major events like the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), attracts world-class concerts and sporting events, and serves as the perfect point for adventures through the American Southwest (hello, Grand Canyon). More than 250,000 Australians already visit Las Vegas every year, making us the city's largest international market without a direct flight – until now. Better still, it will make it easier for Americans to discover Australia and all that we have to offer.  This direct flight means there's no time wasted in stopovers and more time to do what you will once you touch down. As the saying goes, what happens in Vegas, st

When you think of retirement, what do you picture? Perhaps it’s early morning swims and long lunches by the water. Or perhaps it’s ‘crafternoons’ with mates and helping out with the grandkids. Truth be told, more and more seniors are looking beyond Sydney's city lights for a 'sea change' or a 'tree change' – places that will give them affordable homes and a better quality of life. That's why choosing the right location can make all the difference in the world. The good news? New South Wales has tons of appealing options. From laidback coastal communities to charming country towns within easy reach of Sydney or Canberra, there are plenty of places where retirees can enjoy a fulfilling life without compromising on essential services. To uncover NSW's best retirement destinations, Citro has paired data from its 300,000-strong community with insights from experts in housing, economics and demographics to spotlight the best coastal retirement locations in Australia. Its Australia's Top 50 Retirement Locations guide analysed towns and suburbs across five key pillars: housing affordability, housing availability, access to healthcare, transport infrastructure and lifestyle opportunities. NSW's best locations for retirement: Armidale Perched in the Northern Tablelands roughly halfway between Sydney and Brisbane, Armidale combines country charm with the conveniences of a thriving regional city. Home to a major university, it offers a cosmopolitan atmosphere alongside excellent healthca

Pan de sal. Bicho. Leche flan. Embutido. Ube matcha. Filipino flavours have found a home in Rushcutters Bay thanks to Adhika, a small but mighty café that’s been pulling in locals since opening in September 2025. From the team behind Takam in Darlinghurst, this casual brunch spot brings Filipino comfort food to Sydney’s east. Photograph: Supplied/AdhikaA dish at Adhika The Tagalog word 'adhika' means dream or purpose; co-owners Giannina Abiva, Aileen Aguirre, Nonie Ferrer, Chris Lumapas and chef Francis dela Cruz have a shared vision of introducing Filipino food and culture to Sydneysiders. The homely vibe comes through its chequerboard floors, wooden shelves lined with pot plants and trinkets and a compact dining area – inside and out – that invites you to slow down and settle in. The menu leans into Filipino comfort classics, starting with a standout tapsilog: pan-seared beef tapa served with garlic rice, a fried egg and house-made pickles. It’s hearty, satisfying and unmistakably Filipino. Equally popular is the chilli egg bicho. Served with longganisa (a spiced sausage) and mindanao sambal, it arrives with a round, golden bicho (soft fried bread) filled with herb-y cream cheese and topped with toasted seeds. Great for brunch – and even better when you’re nursing a hangover. Photograph: Supplied/AdhikaA dish at Adhika For something more customisable, Adhika’s BYO (build your own) boards let you mix and match breads, spreads and pickles, with optional extras like smoked

There’s a delicious new reason to wander the cobblestone streets of The Rocks. Lebanese restaurant Sahtein brings the generous, everyday cooking of Beirut to Sydney, inviting diners to settle in and stay a while. Led by executive chef Mike Flood (ex-Felix, Firedoor and Quay) alongside head chef Rifat Katranci (ex-Jimmy’s Falafel, The Cut Bar and Grill), with oversight from Hunter St. Hospitality culinary director Santiago Aristizabal, the kitchen takes its cues directly from Lebanon’s vibrant food culture. Sahtein serves the kind of dishes you’d find on dining tables across Beirut, where the conversation flows over a family feast. The seasonal menu is designed for sharing and uses halal produce throughout. Small plates, charcoal-grilled meats and traditional desserts sit alongside zesty sides and house-made breads. Cold mezze includes herb-laced salads, hummus, labneh, salt-baked beetroot with pistachio and kibbeh nayeh (finely pounded raw mince). Hot plates centre around favourites like balila (warm chickpeas), crispy falafel, sautéed chicken livers with mulberry molasses and halloumi with fresh fig. Cooked over the charcoal grill are shish lahm (spiced Wagyu skewers), smoky lamb kafta and chicken with toum (garlic sauce) and Aleppo honey – this dish was one of our favourite things we tried. The centrepiece is the signature raqabat kharouf – lamb neck that’s slow-cooked, richly spiced and served with rice, zucchini stuffed with mince, labneh and pickles. They also have show-

When you hear the word "Dalmatian", you probably think of black and white spotty dogs, don't you? But Dalmatia is also the name of Croatia’s stunning Adriatic coastline and islands, including the cities of Dubrovnik, Zadar and Split. And that’s exactly the spirit captured at St Blaise, a charming Dalmatian bistro hidden in a little arcade in Matraville. Owned and operated by Dubrovnik-born chef Vedran Perojevic, the restaurant draws inspiration from the coastal cooking of southern Croatia. On the menu? Adriatic seafood, slow-cooked meats, traditional pasta dishes and the kind of unhurried hospitality that defines the region. With its intimate dining room, open kitchen, outdoor courtyard and warm hospitality, St Blaise feels much like a traditional Dalmatian konoba – a rustic tavern where locals gather over grilled fish, cured meats, local wine and long conversations. As for its name, St Blaise is the patron saint of Dubrovnik, who is said to have saved the city from a Venetian attack in the 10th century. While the menu takes a more modern approach, the cooking remains deeply rooted in tradition. Sauces are slow-cooked, seafood is prepared fresh to order, and the bread is baked in-house daily. In fact, word about the unlimited house-made focaccia-style bread has spread among locals – and yes, it’s complimentary. Signature dishes include black cuttlefish risotto, Adriatic seafood brodet (stew) with polenta, Dalmatian octopus salad, whipped salt cod pâté, Pag Island-style lamb r

Remember those REDcycle bins that used to sit near the entrance of your local supermarket? After the scheme collapsed in 2022, many Australians were left wondering what to do with their bread bags, chip packets and cling wrap. The good news? A new national soft plastics recycling scheme is now rolling out across Australia, with more than 700 collection points already operating in supermarkets across NSW, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and the ACT. The program is being overseen by Soft Plastics Stewardship Australia (SPSA), which says the system can process more than 20,000 tonnes of soft plastics each year – almost three times REDcycle's peak capacity. Recent research from waste management company Cleanaway found that nearly half of Aussies are still putting soft plastics in their household recycling bins – a big no-no since most kerbside recycling systems can't process them. The report also found that many Australians find plastic recycling confusing, with almost two-thirds saying they've been misled by packaging that appears recyclable but isn't. Here's a handy guide to help with your soft-plastic recycling.  What are soft plastics? Soft plastics are lightweight, flexible plastics that can easily be scrunched into a ball. Unlike hard plastics, they become tangled in recycling machinery, so they should never go into your yellow-lid recycling bin. Common examples include plastic shopping bags, chip and biscuit packets, snack and lolly wrappers, etc. A simple rule of th