Alison Rodericks

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

Hobart’s Japanese dining scene punches far above its weight, blending Tassie’s fresh seafood and exceptional local produce with traditional techniques. From ultra-intimate, multi-course omakase counter seats to late-night izakayas and hidden suburban gems serving crispy karaage and rich ramen, the island capital has a table for every craving. Here are the best Japanese restaurants in Hobart to book right now, thanks to recommendations from our local foodie experts. Kanpai! Editor's favourite Japanese restaurants in Hobart: 🍣 Best for dinner & drinks: Bar Wa Izakaya 🍜 Best for fine dining: Omotenashi  🍱 Best for ramen: Ranita Ramen For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🍕 The best pizza in Hobart🍽 The best restaurants in Hobart

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

If Canberra had to pick a culinary crush, it would be Indian food. The city is full of curry-craving residents, many of whom would much rather indulge in the real deal than settle for their own half-hearted attempts at home (let's face it, it just never tastes quite as good). Luckily for them, Canberra's best Indian restaurants serve everything from the smoky flavours of the tandoor oven and the fiery heat of a North Indian curry to South Indian dosas and a cooling lassi. We've asked local foodies to recommend the best Indian restaurants in Canberra for your next group dinner, date night or takeaway evening. The only question is, can you handle the heat? Editor's favourite Indian restaurants in Canberra: ✨ Best local favourite: Rama’s Fiji Indian Restaurant 😋 Best cheap and cheerful: Indian Pantry Restaurant 👌 Best institution: Taj Mahal Indian Restaurant For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🍕 The best pizza in Canberra🍝 The best Italian in Canberra

At 42 degrees south of the equator, Hobart may be known for its pristine wilderness and cool-climate wines, but its Indian food scene packs some serious heat. Whether you're craving the fiery kick of a vindaloo, the comfort of a dal or seriously spicy chaat, the best Indian restaurants in Hobart have you covered.  Our local food writer Madeleine Gasparinatos has eaten her way through the city's top Indian diners to bring you this ultimate hit list. Her advice? Arrive hungry and leave room for kulfi (Indian ice cream). Go to Dawat The Invitation for fiery North Indian fare (hello, dal makhani), visit Sacred Bites for Indian classics with an Asian twist, or grab takeaway from Magic Curries, a family-run restaurant where you can dial the spice level up or down, depending on how daring you feel. Strap yourself in for a taste bud tour of the best Indian restaurants in Hobart. Editor's favourite Indian restaurants in Hobart: 🥘 Best banquet: Maharaja Authentic Indian Restaurant ⭐️ Best for groups: Chillies Indian and Nepali Restaurant 💎 Best for date night: Magic Curries For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🍣 The best Japanese food in Hobart🍽 The best restaurants in Hobart

There’s no better feeling than your sinuses getting a well-deserved cleanse, and we’re happy to report that a feast at any of Perth's best Indian restaurants will do the trick. Yep, there are venues for every kind of curry craving, Indian street food and fusion fare in the world's most isolated major city. To help find the spot that's right for you, Time Out has enlisted local foodies to come up with a list of the best Indian restaurants in Perth that will knock your socks off. See you in flavourtown! Editor's favourite Indian restaurants in Perth: 🥘 Best budget: Chutney Mary's ⭐️ Best special occasion: Sauma 🍷 Best BYO: Spicy Affair For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🍕 The best Italian in Perth🍷 The best Japanese in Perth

When it comes to Indian food, variety is the spice of life – and in Adelaide, we have tons to choose from. From traditional regional curries and fiery street food to modern fine dining and buttery naan fresh from the tandoor, South Australia's capital delivers on every flavour profile.  We've recruited local foodies to steer you in the right direction with this guide to the very best Indian restaurants in Adelaide. Fill the table with butter chicken, aromatic biryani or an authentic thali feast – and don't be afraid to overorder. Everyone knows curry tastes better the next day. Editor's favourite Indian restaurants in Adelaide: 🥘 Best budget: City Indian Cuisine ⭐️ Best special occasion: Daughter In Law 💎 Best local gem: Indian Temptations For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🍣 The best Japanese restaurants in Adelaide🍕 The best pizza in Adelaide

From steaming bowls of ramen to artful plates of sashimi, Canberra’s Japanese dining scene punches far above its weight. Across our capital, master chefs are redefining traditional Japanese cuisine with fresh, seasonal Australian produce – ranging from casual late-night yakitori bars to multi-course fine dining and hidden suburban gems. To help find your next great meal, our Editor Melissa Woodley has teamed up with food experts to curate the ultimate guide to the best Japanese restaurants in Canberra. Kanpai!  Editor's favourite Japanese restaurants in Canberra: 🍣 Best for fine dining: Koto 🍜 Best for casual fusion: Lazy Su 🍱 Best for ramen: Ramen O For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🍕 The best pizza in Canberra🥘 The best Indian in Canberra

If, like that old song, you "Do Like to Be Beside the Seaside", you’re in luck – and in the Lucky Country. Australia is blessed with some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, and Victoria has its fair share. In fact, Mount Martha Beach on the Mornington Peninsula recently landed at number eight on Australia’s best beaches list, proving you don’t need to cross state lines for a brilliant coastal escape. Victoria boasts almost 2,000 kilometres of coastline that changes dramatically. Think windswept beaches, sleepy fishing villages, picture-postcard holiday towns and rugged landscapes. Perhaps you want to explore pockets along the Great Ocean Road, head  towards Gippsland’s rugged shores, or even go down to the Mornington Peninsula; there are plenty of coastal gems beyond Melbourne that are waiting to be discovered. Wondering where to go for a bit of sun, sand and surf? We’ve rounded up Victoria’s best seaside towns, from easy day trips to proper road-trip territory. All you need to do is pack the car, your swimmers and a sense of adventure.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. We've also ranked and rated the best beaches in Melbourne. Feeling hungry? These are the best places for fish and chips in Melbourne.

Sometimes, the best way to deal with city life is to get away from it. Luckily for us Melburnians, we don’t have to venture too far to swap jam-packed calendars for crackling campfires or traffic snarls for a sky full of stars. There are heaps of beautiful camping spots within an hour or two of the CBD, making it super easy to enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you’re after a peaceful riverside camp, a sandy spot by the sea or a forest hideaway, Victoria has got you covered. Once you’ve managed to pitch your tent – it helps to have the  right camping gear – the only sounds you’ll hear are songs around a campfire at night and the wake up call of a very persistent kookaburra at daybreak. Remember, campgrounds are a shared experience, so be respectful, leave no trace and check the latest travel and park advice from Parks Victoria before you hit the road. Not too sure if camping is for you? Here’s where you can go glamping in Victoria.

Calling all sweet tooths and savoury fans alike: Brisbane's bakery scene is bursting with innovative, tastebud-popping pastry sensations to make your heart go boom. Whether you're hunting for the perfect crusty sourdough or a world-class croissant, you’ve been warned – you won’t be able to stop at just one serving. Our team of Brisbane-based writers has tapped into their network of hospitality insiders and local foodies to find the spots that are truly defining the city’s bakery scene. We've considered everything from the lamination of a croissant to the complex tang of a 72-hour sourdough to bring you this definitive guide to the best bakeries in Brisbane right now. Happy eating! Editor's favourite bakeries in Brisbane: 🥐 Best croissants: Lune 🥖 Best baguettes: Flour & Chocolate ⭐️ Best buns: Time & Temp ☕️ The best coffee shops in Brisbane🍽 The best cafés in Brisbane

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

Wondering what to do with the kids during the spring school holidays? The Sydney Opera House has got you covered with its first-ever Wild Things International Kids Festival. Running for 16 days from September 26 until October 11, this festival turns the Opera House into a creative playground, with performances, workshops, installations and activities for all kids from toddlers to teens.  Out on the Forecourt, families can enjoy free performances, giant interactive installations and roaming puppeteers. Venture inside to catch shows for different age groups from Australia and around the world. And with every performance priced at $49 or less, it’s a fun thing to add to your school holiday calendar. Shows to watch ZOOOM September 26–29 at Playhouse; Age: 4+ Patch Theatre takes kids on an imaginative journey through the universe, inspired by the beloved Harold and the Purple Crayon. We Come From Far, Far Away October 3–7 at The Studio; Age: 10+ Abdallah shares his story of life, travel and growing up, inspired by the real journeys of young refugees and performed inside a Mongolian yurt. Tinker Tales!October 3–5 at Playhouse; Age: 6+ Three performers build, dance and create on a giant building site, where things quickly spiral into wonderfully chaotic fun. Grand Soft Day October 8–11 at Playhouse; Age: 2–6 Three friends head into the woods, but the weather has other plans. Expect movement, music and a charming mix of English, Irish and Italian. Free Events in the Forecourt There’

The State Library of NSW is celebrating its 200th birthday – and you’re invited. 200 Years of Awe is a six-week program of performances, talks and free events that brings together First Nations storytelling, live music, theatre, dance and plenty of reasons to visit. RECLAIM: A Contemporary Ceremony September 11-12, Mitchell Library Reading Room Director, choreographer and storyteller Stephen Page AO brings dance, spoken word, poetry and music together in RECLAIM. The powerful work celebrates the resistance, resilience and enduring culture of First Nations peoples. Earth Flow September 18-19, Mitchell Library Reading Room Composer and yidaki (digeridoo) master William Barton presents Earth Flow, a stirring celebration of memory, connection and living knowledge. Joining Barton are Aunty Delmae Barton, Jack Thompson, Ray Martin and the Sydney Street Choir. A Night at the Library September 20, 29, 30 & October 1, Library Auditorium What happens when a young student who doesn’t like reading gets stuck in a library overnight? Bell Shakespeare’s A Night at the Library turns that nightmare into an adventure filled with literary greats, fictional characters and plenty of fun.  The Scott Sisters: Pioneers of Science and Art September 25-27, Library Auditorium Step into the remarkable world of Harriet and Helena Scott, the 19th-century sisters whose exquisite illustrations helped put Australian butterflies on the map. Created by Skye McIntosh, this immersive work blends animation, theat

A sawfish swimming alongside a sea turtle in the Pilbara. Royal penguins stopped in their tracks by an enormous elephant seal. A Tassie devil fighting for survival. A whimbrel racing an incoming wave with a freshly caught crab in its beak. Flame-like patterns formed by the tides across a Western Australian sandbank. It’s true what they say: a picture definitely does speak a thousand words. Opening at the Australian Museum on September 12, the 2026 Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year exhibition brings you face-to-face with some of the most extraordinary moments in the natural world. From wildlife encounters to otherworldly landscapes, these photographs offer a rare glimpse into the beauty and fragility of nature in our region. This free exhibition, produced by the South Australian Museum, showcases the finest images selected from 2,129 entries by 501 photographers across 17 countries. Spanning Australia, New Zealand, Antarctica and New Guinea, the photographs take in everything from critically endangered species and dramatic animal encounters to patterns and textures of the natural landscape. Western Australian photographer Matt Deakin has been named the 2026 Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year for Ethereal Encounter. His mesmerising aerial photograph captures a critically endangered green sawfish moving towards a group of green turtles in the shallow waters of the Pilbara. Shot in the last light of the day, the milky water gives the sawfish

Clear your calendar because the Melbourne Royal Show is back, baby! From September 24 to October 4, Melbourne Showgrounds transforms into a glorious playground of farmyard animals, thrilling rides, packed showbags, yum eats and enough entertainment to keep you busy right until the nightly fireworks. The animals are the undisputed stars of the Show – it’s your chance to see prized cows, sheep, poultry, dogs and even some alpacas. Watch horses prance, canter and leap, cheer on working dogs and head to the rural pavilion for some farmyard fun. The Animal Nursery is your chance to get up close to adorable lambs and fluffy chicks. New this year, Livestock Lane takes you behind the scenes, offering a peek into the horse stables and working areas of the Livestock Pavilion. Then there are the blue ribbon competitions. Marvel at the best of the best across everything from art, craft, cookery and woodchopping to dogs, horses, alpacas and cattle. This year marks 70 years of the Golden Axe, the most prestigious award in the Melbourne Royal Woodchop Championships, while the KG Luke Equestrian Turnout celebrates 90 years as a highlight of the Melbourne Royal Horses in Action Competition. Next, the all-important showbags – choose from 400 varieties. Whether you’re after chocolate, lollies, snacks, novelty goodies, lifestyle treats or your favourite licensed characters, there’s a bag with your name on it. What are going to be the top picks this year? The Cinnamoroll, Capybara, Hello Kitty an

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

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

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. October 16 | 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. October 23 | 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.  October 23 | 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

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

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

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

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

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

Love a bit of razzle-dazzle? How about drama and didactic dialogue? Or perhaps a healthy dose of witty repartee? Whatever gets you into a theatre seat, Melbourne Theatre Company’s 2027 season has you covered. The newly announced program for 2027 is looking very, very good, with 11 productions spanning everything from reimagined classics to compelling new Australian dramas and international hits. There are six world premieres, three Australian premieres and seven works by Australian writers, including two by First Nations writers. Six productions have been supported through MTC’s Next Stage Writers’ Program, while five are MTC commissions, highlighting the company’s commitment to nurturing ambitious new Australian work. In other words: clear your calendar. As Melbourne Theatre Company Artistic Director and CEO Anne-Louise Sarks says, "Season 2027 invites audiences to join us at the theatre for thrilling, moving and surprising storytelling. Our new season highlights who we are: a company that backs Australian artists, commissions new Australian work and gives artists the support to continue making ambitious theatre from the ground up." Photograph: Jo DuckActor Rachel Griffiths in Clarice Melbourne Theatre Company’s 2027 season: Stereophonic: Opening on January 25, David Adjmi’s Stereophonic is the most Tony Award-nominated play in Broadway history. Directed by Daniel Evans with an original score by Will Butler, this musical follows a band recording the album that could make t

Yes, Melbourne is Australia’s coffee capital, but us Melburnians also know a thing or two about pizza. From blistered, chewy Neapolitan bases to crisp Roman-style slices and gloriously cheesy American-inspired pies, Melbourne’s pizza scene is seriously impressive. So, it comes as no surprise to learn that one of our pizzerias scored a place in the 50 Top Pizza Awards 2026. These awards are essentially the Michelin Guide of the pizza world, with the rankings decided by almost 1,000 anonymous, unpaid inspectors. Visiting each pizzeria at least twice a year, they evaluate far more than just the final taste, scoring everything from dough quality and ingredient sourcing to service and overall atmosphere. In a shocking twist, the top two pizzerias for 2026 aren’t actually in Italy – the birthplace of pizza. First place went to London’s Napoli on the Road, followed by New York’s Una Pizza Napoletana in second. Milan's Confine came in third – phew!  Photograph: Supplied | Julian LalloShop225 pizzeria Melbourne’s Shop225 cracked the top 50, landing in 42nd place – and you might remember that it was already crowned Australia’s best pizza last year. Beyond perfectly blistered crusts and carefully sourced toppings, Shop225 founder Lorenzo Tron's mission is a commitment to eating equality. This neighbourhood joint in Pascoe Vale South doesn’t just make exceptional pizza; it was the first pizzeria nationally to be gluten-free accredited by Coeliac Australia, and offers heaps of vegetaria

Sea breeze. Sun-kissed vibes. Spritz in hand. If you’re craving the Mediterranean but your bank balance says "sorry, no", take a drive up to Terrigal on the Central Coast instead. Just over an hour from Sydney, The Tropic delivers all the easy-breezy charm of a Euro summer – without having to renew your passport. Photograph: Megann EvansThe Tropic in Terrigal Right on the water inside the lively Terrigal Pavilion, this 280-seat restaurant by hospitality duo Ben May and Rob Domjen has been serving a slice of coastal paradise since it opened in December 2025. Located downstairs in the Pavilion, The Tropic is tailor-made for long lunches with friends or date-night dinners.  Inside, it’s laidback and a little bit luxe: pastel yellows, terracotta tones, custom cane furnishings and a show-stopping 12-metre bar wrapped in lemon-hued Spanish tiles. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame uninterrupted waterfront views, so no matter where you sit, you’ll get a front-row seat to the sea. Photograph: Megann EvansDishes at The Tropic The Mediterranean menu has a mod Australian slant and is made for sharing. Start with shucked-to-order oysters with a zingy chardonnay mignonette, tuna crudo and beef tartare piled with capers, pickles, shallots and a glossy quail egg yolk perched on top. There’s plenty to graze on like creamy burrata with pesto, slivers of jamon Iberico and roast pumpkin hummus. When it’s time for mains, opt for the citrusy-herby goldband snapper, grilled Wagyu rump or roast cho

Most Australians dream of owning their own home. But for many, it’s more of a pipe dream. Soaring property prices, higher interest rates, expensive construction costs and a chronic shortage of affordable housing have squeezed buyers’ budgets – particularly in Sydney, where even a modest studio apartment comes with an eye-watering price tag. But Australians haven’t given up on the great Australian dream; instead, they’re looking further afield to make it a reality. New data from realestate.com.au reveals that home buyers are increasingly widening their search, with regional towns and lesser-known locations attracting a surge of interest. In some areas, searches for homes have more than doubled compared with the same time last year, as buyers look for a more affordable way into the property market. And while Sydney still remains on the radar for apartment hunters, many of the biggest increases in buyer searches are happening well beyond the city limits. In NSW, small regional towns are proving particularly popular, where median house prices hover around the $500,000-mark – a fraction of what you’d pay in any capital city. Topping the list for where buyers are hunting for homes is Julatten, a rural locality near Port Douglas in Far North Queensland that has seen a massive 235% year-on-year increase in searches made for houses. Biggenden (222% increase) and Apple Tree Creek (210% increase) – both also in Queensland – round out the top three most searched areas for home buyers. 

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