Alison Rodericks

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. 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, Powerhouse Parra

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.

Ahh, pizza. It’s arguably the most versatile meal in the world, catering to almost every palate and diet. Whether you prefer a red base piled high with meat and seafood, or a white base crowned with four types of cheese, the best pizza in Canberra will curb your cravings. Every Canberran has their favourite local pizza joint, and creating a list of Canberra's best pizza is sure to spark some serious debates. Our Editor, Melissa Woodley, loves grabbing takeaway from Mama Dough, but her fellow pizza-loving friends reckon Pizza Artigiana and Pizza Arte serve up the best slices in town. Ready to settle the score for yourself? Start working your way through our ultimate guide to the best pizza in Canberra. Editor's favourite pizza in Canberra: 😋 Best pizza by the slice: Sliceria ✅ Best DIY pizzas: SoLita 🍕 Best takeaway pizza: Mama Dough Pizza 🍕 The best pizza in Australia🍝 The best Italian restaurants in Canberra

Perth's pizza game has levelled up over the past few years, and we now have everything from Neapolitan and Roman-style pizzas to New York slices and our very own Aussie creations. Whether they're woodfired in purpose-built ovens or crisped to perfection in specialist electric and stone ovens, Perth's best pizza features the freshest and finest ingredients from Australia and abroad. Family-owned Monsterella is a fan favourite for its naturally risen 48-hour dough, while Il Locale Pizzeria is so popular that it's expanded to six locations across Western Australia. Here, in no particular order, are some of the best pizzas in Perth, as chosen by our local dough experts. Our editor's favourite pizzas in Perth: 🍕Best Naples-style pizza: Monsterella 🍕Best Roman-style pizza: Pappagallo 🍕Best New York-style pizza: Mack Daddy’s 🍝 The best Italian restaurants in Perth🍔 The best burgers in Perth

Adelaidians take their pizza seriously – and the city's woodfired ovens are firing up some of the best pizza in Australia. Whether you're craving authentic Neapolitan slices, crispy Roman-style bases or late-night takeaway, the South Australian capital punches well above its weight. Here is Time Out's ultimate list of the best pizza in Adelaide – where dreams are made of mozzarella stretches and slippery red sauce combined with garden-fresh herbs. We don’t want it, we knead it, and we know you need your carb fix too. Editor's favourite pizza in Adelaide: 🪵 Best woodfired pizza: Pizza e Mozzarella Bar 🍕 Best for vibes: Sunny's Pizza 🍷 Best for pizza & wine: Crafers Pizza Bar 🍝 The best Italian restaurants in Adelaide🥐 The best bakeries in Adelaide

We're calling it: Adelaide is one of the most underrated cities in the country. The South Australian capital punches well above its weight with its stunning walks, top-notch wineries and unexpected water adventures. Whether you're visiting for a quick weekend away or an extended stay, you'll leave wishing you'd booked a few extra nights. Our expert writers are here to help you plan the perfect trip with this list of the best things to do in Adelaide. We've got activities for foodies, families, hikers, day trippers and everyone in between. So, where to begin? Editors' favourite things to do in Adelaide: 🥙 Best for foodies: Adelaide Central Market 🚶🏻‍♀️ Best for nature: Hallett Cove Boardwalk 🍷 Best for a day trip: Adelaide Hills 🍽️ The best restaurants in Adelaide🖼️ The best galleries and museums in Adelaide⭐️ The best hotels in Adelaide

If there was any lingering doubt that Brisbane is a world city, it was put to rest the moment we scored the 2032 Olympics. Since then, the River City's been named one of the world's trendiest travel destinations and one of the friendliest places to live. Whether you're a local or just passing through, our editors have compiled the ultimate guide to the best things to do in Brisbane right now. In QAGOMA, the city has two of the best-designed art galleries on the planet, and blockbuster art to show in them. Sure, we've got great barbecue spots, but you'll also find some seriously impressive fine dining experiences and rooftop bars, too. Add in that year-round sunny climate (though slip, slop, slap, please) and a great set of river walkways and public transport connections, and you’ve got yourself a city that’s a dream to explore. Start ticking off this list of the best things to do in Brisbane. Editors' favourite things to do in Brisbane: 🐶 Best for families: Bluey's World 😋 Best for art & culture: QAGOMA 🧺 Best for locals: West End Markets ☀️ Best for outdoors: Climb Mt Coot-tha 🌳 The best free things to do in Brisbane🚗 The best day trips from Brisbane🥐 The best bakeries in Brisbane

A truly delicious burger is easily one of life’s greatest pleasures, and Australia is teeming with top-notch options, most of which fall comfortably into that hits-the-spot territory. A classic burger’s simplicity – a pillowy bun, a juicy patty, a slice of melted cheese, some salad and a drizzle of sauce – makes it hard to mess up. The flip side, however, is that it also makes finding the best burgers in Australia a meaty challenge. Time Out’s hungry team of local food writers have bravely put their jaws and stomachs on the line (in the name of exceedingly difficult research, you understand) to compile this list of Australia's best burgers. We’ve eaten our way from coast to coast to bring you the ultimate guide, telling you exactly what to order at each venue. So whether you're hunting for a classic American cheeseburger, a gourmet Wagyu creation or an innovative plant-based number, here are the absolute best burgers in Australia, ranked in no particular order. Now it’s up to you to crown the true buns of glory.  Editor's favourite burgers in Australia: 🍔 Best global icon: Café Margaret, Sydney ⭐️ Best gourmet: Bread & Bone, Adelaide 😋 Best cheeseburger: Charrd, Melbourne For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🥧 The best pies in Australia🌭 The best sausage rolls🍕 The best pizzas in Australia

The witching hour is almost here, Melbourne – it’s time to get your spooky on! Sort out your Halloween costume quick-smart, decorate your front yard and get ready for a frightfully good time. With October 31 falling on a Saturday this year, there’s a whole weekend of wicked fun to look forward to. From horror-themed club nights and thrilling rides to haunted prison tours and scary theatrical experiences, there are plenty of ways to get your Halloween chills and thrills. So, dust off your witch’s hat and prepare for a weekend of deliciously dark fun. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. After the perfect costume? Check out Melbourne's best costume shops. 

Ah, Noosa. The Sunshine Coast destination is a mix of everything that is authentically (and wonderfully) Australian. It’s all sun, sand and surf along Noosa Heads, trendy eateries and boutiques down Hastings Street, hectares of gorgeous greenery at Noosa National Park, and that Aussie outback hospitality across the hinterland. When it comes to staying the week, we reckon your best bet is setting up camp right in Noosa Heads, where all the action is. We’ve chosen the area’s best hotels for their welcoming nature, light-filled coastal rooms and proximity to the beach – some even beachfront; everything your sunny holiday should be. Here are the best hotels to book in Noosa right now.  Editor's favourite hotels in Noosa: 💎 Best for luxury: Elysium Noosa Resort 📍 Best for location: Tingirana Noosa ⭐️ Best for families: RACV Noosa 🌳 Best for backpackers: Halse Lodge ☀️ The best things to do in Noosa🍹 The best restaurants in Noosa🌴 The best beaches in Noosa Time Out makes a small commission from the affiliate links included in this article. These links have no influence on our editorial content, but they do help us to bring you more recommendations every week. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

Don't let the political reputation of Australia's capital city fool you; there are plenty of diverse and exciting things to do in Canberra. Over the last five years, the city has undergone a hospitality glow-up, with world-class wine bars, trendy restaurants and stylish boutique hotels opening in the rapidly developing cultural precincts of New Acton and Braddon. Although once only visited by eye-rolling schoolkids, political wheelers and culture vultures, Canberra is now a perfect weekend getaway spot, regardless of your interests. Our Editor, Melissa Woodley, lived in the capital for four years and has carefully curated this list of the best things to do in Canberra. Her ideal weekend here involves catching up with friends over a lap of Lake Burley Griffin, a big wander in the National Portrait Gallery, hunting for pastries at the Capital Region Farmers Market, and of course, watching the sunset from the top of Mount Ainslie – a non-negotiable too.  Editors' favourite things to do in Canberra: 🌊 Best for relaxation: Floating Sauna, Lake Burley 🌅 Best for nature: Mount Ainslie Lookout 🎨 Best for art: National Portrait Gallery 🍽️ The best restaurants in Canberra🥾 The best hikes in Canberra🖼️ The best museums and galleries in Canberra

Sydney: the city of blue skies, ocean swims, alfresco living and sun-soaked times in the great outdoors, right? Well, hold on a second. That may be the case for a majority of the year thanks to our sunny Aussie climate, but the Harbour City also gets its share of super-rainy days. Don’t want to spend all of your indoors-time hunkering down at home? We’re here to help. Take shelter in style with our guide to the most fun things to do in Sydney within four walls. Whether you're in search of a crafternoon, a cultural adventure, or a cocktail with a view, there's something for everyone on our list of fun venues and activities where you can stay warm and dry, all year round. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, travel inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox.  RECOMMENDED:  On a budget? These are the best things to do in Sydney for $25 or less.And these are the best walks in the city if you're keen to get out there and explore. 

You’re invited to browse and buy some of the most remarkable Aboriginal art at Carriageworks on November 28-29. Returning for its eighth edition, the Southeast Aboriginal Arts Market brings together 27 independent Aboriginal artists and collectives from across south-east Australia for a weekend celebrating creativity, culture and connection. Curated by Wiradjuri and Kamilaroi artist Jonathan Jones, the free two-day market showcases the extraordinary diversity of Aboriginal art, with thousands of traditional and contemporary works up for grabs. Expect everything from ceramics, jewellery and intricate weaving to carving, textiles, photography, paintings and prints. Four artists and collectives will be making their market debut this year, alongside well-known names from regional and coastal NSW, the ACT, Victoria, the Murray-Darling Basin and Tasmania. This market offers a rare opportunity to meet the artists, hear the stories and the traditions behind their work. Better still, 100 per cent of proceeds go directly to the artists, so every purchase makes a difference. Keen to get hands-on? Book into a $20 weaving workshop led by Muruwari artist Dr Virginia Keft. And when all that browsing works up an appetite, swing by Sharon Winsor's Indigiearth Cafe for a bite. Southeast Aboriginal Arts Market at Carriageworks is on Saturday, November 28 and  Sunday, November 29. Entry is free.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, travel inspo and a

If you love everything from the Shinkansen to the sakura, you're in for a treat. The Japanese Film Festival (JFF) is celebrating its 30th anniversary in Australia with a bumper program of films. Melburnians can catch films ranging from samurai adventures and spine-tingling horror to award-winning dramas and spectacular animation at ACMI and The Kino from October 29 to November 17. Opening night features Look Back, the latest film from acclaimed director Hirokazu Kore-eda. Adapted from the manga by Chainsaw Man creator Tatsuki Fujimoto, it follows two young manga artists whose childhood rivalry develops into friendship, with unexpected consequences. Other highlights include Tokyo Taxi, from 94-year-old director Yōji Yamada, starring Takuya Kimura as a driver taking an elderly passenger on a journey through memories and loss. There's also Bring Him Down to a Portable Size, a moving story about family and reconciliation, and Purehearted,which follows a young Okinawan entrepreneur determined to launch an authentic sugarcane rum. For a dose of nostalgia, don't miss a newly remastered edition of Hula Girls. Based on a true story, this much-loved 2006 drama follows women in a struggling Fukushima coal-mining town who learn traditional hula dancing in an attempt to save their community. Fans of action and suspense can look forward to The Samurai and the Prisoner, the first period drama from horror director Kiyoshi Kurosawa, and Samurai Vengeance, a gripping tale of murder, revenge an

What does it take to turn a dream into a sporting reality? A whole lot of fancy footwork and female empowerment, that’s what. Sydney Theatre Company’s Strong is the New Pretty tells the remarkable story of the birth of the AFLW, now running at the Sydney Opera House’s Drama Theatre until December 12. Acclaimed Australian playwright Suzie Miller (Prima Facie, RBG: Of Many, Inter Alia), takes this story of sporting history and turns it into something much bigger: a celebration of women challenging the status quo, demanding equal opportunities and refusing to take no for an answer. First, a bit of background. Yes, women and girls have been playing Aussie rules football for aeons, but opportunities to compete in professional leagues weren’t non-existent until an official report in 2010 recommended a national women's competition. Seven years later, after decades of advocacy, eight teams took to the field for the inaugural AFLW season. Directed by Sarah Giles (The Importance of Being Earnest, No Pay? No Way!) and featuring an outstanding ensemble of eight women – Lucy Bell, Amy Hack, Amy Ingram, Edyll, Amber McMahon, Tara Morice, Nyasha Ogden and Contessa Treffone – who seamlessly shift between scenes and settings with infectious energy and wry wit. We move through the everyday lives of the women who helped make the league happen, from teachers and midwives to grocery workers. These weren't just footballers; they were mothers, colleagues and working women fitting their sporting amb

Since 1988, Utopia Art Sydney has been bringing Indigenous and non-Indigenous art together, showcasing Australian artists in a contemporary context. Its carefully curated stable includes leading members of Papunya Tula Artists, acclaimed Utopia artist Gloria Petyarre and artists from Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra. Rather than placing artists in separate categories, the gallery gives each equal standing, earning its reputation as a leading destination for Indigenous art. Its inclusive approach has helped bring influential Aboriginal artists, including Emily Kame Kngwarreye, to the attention of mainstream Australian audiences while opening up fresh creative perspectives. Utopia Art Sydney in Waterloo is open Tuesday - Saturday, 10 am-5pm. Find out more here. 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? Here are some interesting Indigenous walks and tours in Sydney.

Love a bargain? Snap up something fabulous and do your bit for the planet at the Garage Sale Trail. This year, bargain hunters across Melbourne – and right across Australia – can hit the streets on November 7-8 and 14-15. With more than 1,000 registered sales across Victoria and almost 500 in Melbourne alone, there’s a whole lot of pre-loved treasure waiting to be discovered. What started in Sydney’s Bondi in 2010 has grown into a nationwide campaign. From vintage teacups and pre-loved toys to great fashion finds (hello, acid-wash denim jacket from the ‘80s), you never know what you’ll find. The Garage Sale Trail keeps good stuff out of landfill by giving pre-loved treasures a second life. Whether you're decluttering for cash or hunting for a bargain, it's a win for your wallet and the planet. Want to get in on the action? It's completely free to register your own garage sale. You'll receive promotional materials to help spread the word, and your sale will be listed on the official website. You can also team up with other sellers for a group sale, creating a mega market of pre-loved goodies. Ready to rummage? Plan your bargain-hunting route using the Garage Sale Trail map, or register your own garage sale and turn your clutter into cash. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. Keen to shop for pre-loved finds? Check out this list of the best op shops in Melbourne.

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas. If your little ones are already making a list for Santa and checking it twice, there’s something special waiting for them right in the heart of Sydney. After delighting families in London, Wundrful World of Christmas is returning home from November 6 to December 24, bringing festive cheer to Sydney right opposite the QVB. Created by Sydney-based immersive entertainment company Wundr, it is designed especially for young children. This enchanting 50-minute adventure invites kids and their grown-ups to step inside a Christmas wonderland where they’ll be immersed in the action, surrounded by dazzling animation, twinkling lights, actors and animated characters. The adventure begins with a thrilling simulated journey to the North Pole. Families can wander through a snowy Enchanted Forest, peek inside the Elves’ Workshop and discover where the Christmas magic happens. Little helpers can lend a hand sorting letters to Santa before visiting Mrs Claus in her cosy cottage. Of course, no Christmas adventure would be complete without meeting the jolly man in red himself: Santa Claus. Families can take home a photo with Santa, choosing from a range of Christmassy backgrounds. Wundrful World of Christmas Sydney runs from November 6 to December 24 at Wundr Store on Market Street (opposite the QVB). There are timed entry slots which last for about 50 minutes. Tickets start at $27.50 and children under two years are free. Check the website for sessi

Passage: The Art of Atong Atem is a world-premiere exhibition celebrating the thought-provoking work of South Sudanese-born Melbourne-based contemporary artist Atong Atem. Opening at NGV on October 30, this major solo exhibition brings together more than 65 works spanning the past decade, including a new commission created exclusively for the gallery. Born in Ethiopia to South Sudanese parents, Atem moved to Australia with her family in 1997. Known for her striking photographic self-portraits, Atem transforms herself through colourful textiles, paint, costume and symbolic objects to explore identity, race, gender and colonialism. Her images weave together history, memory and imagination, celebrating the resilience of her Dinka Bor culture and Melbourne’s African diaspora while challenging how identity is represented and performed. Her work honours cultural traditions and ancestral stories that have endured displacement and war. A highlight of the exhibition is As Above, a large-scale wall installation exploring the stories held in the skies and constellations. Blending Dinka dance, traditional beading and Catholic iconography, the world-premiere commission brings together different cultural traditions in a striking visual narrative. The exhibition also presents Banksia (2021), a photographic series made at Melbourne’s Immigration Museum that turns the spotlight on African, African American and Caribbean convicts and free settlers who arrived with the First Fleet.  Meanwhile,

It's a long title, but an apt one. Dreaming myself into a future that was worth living is the name of the new exhibition at Warrnambool Art Gallery – and it sets the tone of what to expect. Bringing together three acclaimed artists – Danielle Brathwaite-Shirley, Gordon Bennett and Shaun Gladwell – it explores a big question: what does a future worth living for actually look like? Opening on November 14 and running until April 18, 2027, the exhibition features British artist and game designer Danielle Brathwaite-Shirley who is joined by Australian contemporary art pioneers Gordon Bennett and Shaun Gladwell. Inspired by a phrase from writer and activist Morgan M. Page, the exhibition explores how power, politics, technology and history shape our lives, our bodies and the futures we imagine. Brathwaite-Shirley is known for using video games, animation, performance and sound to tell stories that centre Black trans lives. Their paintings, including several new works, will help transform the gallery into an immersive space for visitors to engage with challenging ideas. Bennett (1955–2014) challenged Australia’s colonial history and its impact on national identity, questioning racial stereotypes and categorisations through powerful works that explored the post-colonial experience. He often adopted the persona of ‘John Citizen’ to challenge ideas about identity and the politics of representation in Australian art. Gladwell, meanwhile, works across video, virtual reality, sculpture an

There’s more than a good drop on offer at Hanging Rock Winery – this vineyard has morphed into an outdoor gallery. Art in the Vines – Art in Motion 2 is a free outdoor exhibition at Hanging Rock Winery, running daily from 17 October 2026 until the end of April 2027 with Hanging Rock and Mount Macedon providing a spectacular backdrop.  Spanning three acres of the winery’s grounds, the exhibition features more than 20 kinetic sculptures by local, Victorian and interstate artists. With the wind and weather constantly changing, the sculptures will move and interact with their surroundings, meaning no two visits will be quite the same. The standout attraction is a special showcase of five works by acclaimed Australian kinetic sculptor Rudi Jass, whose creations combine precision engineering with an artist’s eye for movement, balance and natural forces. Drawing on skills developed during his years working for Porsche, Jass creates carefully balanced sculptures that respond to the slightest breeze with seemingly effortless grace. The exhibition has already recognised some standout talent, with Mark Reyment winning the Hanging Rock Winery Sculpture Prize for At least you know it’s trying, a quirky work inspired by the Hanging Rock Races. Local chainsaw artist Paul Hurley took home the Arcare Prize for best up-and-coming artist for Black Cockatoo. Curator Malcolm Thomson says the kinetic theme challenged artists to make movement an integral part of their work, producing a fascinating

This November, the Inner West is serving up a delicious mix of exclusive craft beers, live music and seriously good food, all wrapped into one big neighbourhood party. Made in the Inner West runs from November 6-15, bringing together 13 breweries and 13 local businesses for ten days of deliciously creative collaborations and limited-edition beers.  In terms of entertainment, Inner Westie singer-songwriter Ben Lee is performing across four breweries along with his favourite local artists on November 7, so get ready to 'catch his disease', if you know what we mean. The festival’s food and drinks menu is full of unexpected pairings between local breweries and eateries. For instance, Grifter is teaming up with A.P Bakery, Heaps Normal with Mapo Gelato, Bracket with Miss Sina, and Pickled Monkey with Donut Garage and many, many more.  Grab a festival passport and collect stamps as you visit breweries and purchase beers. Score ten stamps and you’ll earn a limited-edition tote bag featuring artwork by Aidan Howes. Entry is free and everybody's welcome, so bring your family, bring your friends, and even bring your fur babies.  Made in the Inner West runs from November 6-15 across 13 Inner West Ale Trail breweries. Entry is free. Find out more here. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, travel inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox.RECOMMENDED: Hungry for more? Here's where else you can grab a bite to eat in Sydney's Inner West.

Did you know that breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women in Australia? One in seven Australian women will be diagnosed with breast cancer by the age of 85. If you want to show your support, head to Manly Beach on Saturday, October 31 for Pink With Purpose. The morning kicks off at 5.30am with optional sunrise meditation and beachfront yoga, followed by coffee and a chance to connect with fellow participants.  At 7.30am, the main event begins, with women gathering in matching pink Zyla sports bras to create a giant pink heart on the sand at 7.45am. This is followed by a 3.4km return walk between Queenscliff and Manly, turning the beachfront into a sea of pink. The morning wraps up with a Pink Breakfast created by Zoe and Anna from Brain of a Dietitian (BOAD) at Bombora Pavilion from 9am to 10am, featuring a live auction as well as nutritious food, all in shades of pink and created specially for the event. Inspired by Northern Beaches mum Bec Bonar’s experience of having breast cancer detected despite a clear mammogram just months earlier, the event also highlights the importance of looking after your health and supporting ongoing research. Bring your mum, daughter, sister, aunt or best mates, or rally your walking group or colleagues to join in. You can also create your own fundraising page to help raise even more for Breast Cancer Trials. With Zyla Active donating the pink sports bras (founded by Bec’s friend’s daughter Emily White) and BOAD providing

Love a bit of razzle dazzle? Want a bit of risqué business? Sydney, it’s time to welcome back Blanc de Blanc to The Grand Electric in Surry Hills. Celebrating ten years since it first astounded audiences at the Sydney Opera House in 2016, this burlesque show is back with an all-new cast. Get ready for an adults-only spectacular serving up a heady mix of cabaret, cheeky humour, Champagne and jaw-dropping circus acts. Leading the line-up is charismatic American host Alex Makardish, fresh from extended seasons in London and Melbourne, along with world champion contortionist Misha Makarov. Aerialists Duo Coco and Marie also join the cast, with French performer Marie Lebot and Canadian performer Corentin Lemaitre Auger making their Sydney stage debuts. Watching these artistes twist, tumble and soar through the air, you can’t help but marvel at their incredible athleticism and flexibility. Produced by Jess Copas, Blanc de Blanc has charmed audiences from London’s West End to Las Vegas with its intoxicating blend of cabaret, circus and comedy. Whether you’re planning a date night or a fun evening out with the girls, prepare to leave everyday life at the door and embrace your wild side.  Blanc de Blanc runs from October 28, 2026 to January 24, 2027 at The Grand Electric, Surry Hills. Tickets start at $75. Find out more and book tickets here. 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. RECOM

If you've clocked up your fair share of country towns where the main attractions are a main street, a pub, a church and a school (often all on aforementioned main street), it's time to venture somewhere a little different. New South Wales is full of wonderfully offbeat little places that march to the beat of their own drum. Think an outback town where beer bottles double as building materials, a Northern Rivers village that became Australia's hippie capital and a mining community where living underground is all part of everyday life. Some have fascinating histories, others have wildly unexpected claims to fame, but they all have one thing in common: plenty of personality. So, if you're planning your next road trip, these eight quirky NSW towns are well worth the detour. Photograph: Destination NSWTilba Bakery located in Central Tilba in the Eurobodalla region of NSW. Central Tilba Central Tilba looks like someone pressed pause on a 19th-century country village. Located beneath the dramatic slopes of Gulaga (Mount Dromedary) on the NSW South Coast, this beautifully preserved heritage village is all timber shopfronts, old-fashioned lolly shops and charming country pubs. Take a leisurely stroll along the main street, popping into quirky boutiques before stopping at the famous Dromedary Hotel for a drink. Cheese lovers should make a beeline for Tilba Dairy, known for its award-winning local cheeses, while the Saturday growers' market is perfect for stocking up on regional g

A lighthouse. Beautiful beaches. A wellness haven. A chance to bump into Chris Hemsworth at a local coffee shop – sorry, juice bar. Put them all together and you get beautiful Byron Bay. For years, this NSW North Coast spot has been a dreamy coastal paradise. And after property prices went gangbusters during the Covid pandemic, house prices have now taken a big tumble. According to Domain's September 2026 House Price Report, Byron Bay's median house price has fallen 19.1 per cent over five years to $2.075 million – a staggering drop of almost $500,000. In the past year alone, prices have slipped 4.7 per cent. It's quite a downturn for a town that was once Australia's hottest property market.  Photograph: Neon Wang via UnsplashByron Bay So, what happened? During the pandemic, lockdowns sparked a collective desire to escape the cities and embrace a sea or tree change. With working from home becoming the norm, cashed-up buyers from Sydney and Melbourne suddenly had the freedom to swap their city lives for beachside homes, hinterland acreage and a slower pace of life. Record-low interest rates made borrowing easier and Byron's limited housing supply only added to the competition. Byron’s property market went into overdrive. Celebrity buyers such as Rip Curl co-founder Brian Singer and singer-songwriter Tones and I were some of the high profile buyers who bought Byron properties during the surge. As life returned to normal post-pandemic, many Byron buyers have had to reconsider

The people of Prahran, let there be light. Illuminate Chapel is a spectacular new light and projection show bringing the sparkle to Chapel Street to celebrate the culture and character of this unique Melbourne neighbourhood. Transforming the façade of Prahran Town Hall, its forecourt and its trees into a dazzling canvas of light, colour and storytelling, Illuminate Chapel has been created by brothers Nick and Zach Ennis, the creative duo behind Imaginator – here's what to expect.  Running nightly until March 31, 2027, the projections will cycle through a series of changing themes, giving you plenty of reasons to come back time and again. So why not make an evening of it? Catch the light show, then wander along Chapel Street for a spot of shopping, before you grab a bite and a bevvy from the many eateries that line this buzzing area.  Photograph: SuppliedThe façade of Prahran Town Hall is lit up The project is jointly funded by the City of Stonnington and a $155,000 Victorian Government grant through Business Victoria. Says City of Stonnington Mayor, Cr Melina Sehr, "The story of Chapel Street is the story of the people who’ve shaped it. For generations, people from diverse cultural backgrounds have brought their traditions, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit to this precinct, helping create the street we know today. Illuminate Chapel celebrates that legacy while bringing new energy to the precinct and giving people another reason to visit and enjoy Chapel Street after da

What do Queen, Adele, Sia, Paul Simon, Guns N’ Roses, Avicii, Katy Perry and John Farnham all have in common? Their hit songs are all part of The Choir of Man. And the award-nominated musical is coming back to Melbourne for an exciting three-week limited run next year. Musical spectacular The Choir of Man is bringing its feel-good vibes back to Melbourne, taking over Crown Live from February 3–21, 2027. Set inside a traditional English pub, this Olivier Award-nominated hit brings its talented performers together for almost two hours of foot-stomping anthems, energetic tap dancing, plenty of cheeky banter – and even a working beer tap.    Photograph: The Other RichardThe Choir of Man     Directed by Nic Doodson, characters feature archetypes like The Barman (Mark Loveday), Maestro (Ifan Gwilym-Jones), Beast (Cal T King), The Joker (Conor Mellor), and The Pub Bore. The high-energy soundtrack jumps between rock classics, pop favourites, folk tunes and Broadway hits, giving you plenty of reasons to sing along. Expect big voices, infectious energy and a hefty dose of humour in this celebration of mateship and the magic of music. Whether you’re a musical theatre fan or simply after a fun, wholesome night out, round up your mates and book your tickets to The Choir of Man. The Choir of Man runs from February 3–21, 2027 at Crown Live. Get your tickets here. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. RECOMME

In Persian, darband means gateway or door to the mountains – a fitting name for Darband Restaurant, which reopened in summer 2025, just around the corner from where it stood for two decades. When you step inside, you’ll be greeted with a warm “Befarmaeed dakhel” – “welcome, come in” – and you’ll notice the arched doorways.  The new space is bigger with timber and brass accents, while the walls are lined with family photographs. After all, founder Morteza Hemmati opened the original, no-frills Darband with his wife in Auburn in 2005; they have now passed on the reins to their children, Naseem and Hasan, who want to honour the past while reimagining what Persian dining in Sydney can be. Photograph: Vincent YeungNaseem and Hasan That spirit carries through to the food – simple, generous and full of flavour. Kebabs are a mainstay: juicy, smoky and straight off the grill. Choose between lamb kebabs in minced (koobideh), backstrap (barg) or cutlet form (sishlik), or try the chicken kebabs with wings or thighs. Better yet, get a sampling of everything with the Darband Special – a mixed kebab plate that’s been on the menu since day dot.  Photograph: Vincent YeungMeat skewers at Darband Tradition and nostalgia seep through the generous piles of saffron rice studded with barberries and dusted with tangy sumac. Of course, there’s the ghormeh sabzi; a staple in every Irani home, it’s a mixed herb stew with lamb, kidney beans and dried lemons served with saffron rice.  Make sure to fi

If you’re ever on Liverpool Road in Enfield, let your nose lead you to Mt Lewis Pizzeria where the aroma of freshly baked manoush wafts out. If the name sounds familiar, it’s because the Tarraf family already has two other Mt Lewis Pizzeria restaurants in Sydney’s West. Now, they’ve brought their Lebanese food to the Inner West. This 80-seat restaurant is their most personal yet, filled with family, culture and the flavours of Lebanon. After Tony and Nelly Tarraf migrated to Australia, they opened Mt Lewis Pizzeria in 2005, giving locals a taste of Lebanese cuisine. Today, their son Jason – known online as ‘The Manoush Man’ – is leading the charge, but mum Nelly is still rolling the dough and dad Tony is still part of the action. It’s food made by family for family.  What’s manoush? Think of it as Lebanese pizza – thin, crispy dough topped with ingredients such as za’atar, cheese or meat, then cooked on a traditional saj (a domed hotplate). At the centre of the restaurant is an open kitchen where you’ll get a front-row seat to the action.  You’ll be glad to know that favourites like za’atar manoush, Lebanese banquets, cheese explosion, and money bags are all on the menu. And the manoush made using the same dough recipe the family has used for more than two decades.  Photograph: SuppliedThe Tarraf family at Mt Lewis Pizzeria, Enfield The interiors feel like you’re stepping into a Lebanese home. Limestone brought over from Lebanon features throughout the space, while bright b

Good news, gig-goers: the future of live music in New South Wales just got a little brighter. The Minns Labor Government has passed the Contemporary Music Act 2026, introducing new protections for music venues, concerts and music festivals across the state. This legislation is part of the NSW Government’s ten-year contemporary music strategy and aims to make it easier for venues to host live music, while giving local artists and the industry more support. Among the changes is a new three-tier scheme to recognise music venues as ‘dedicated’, ‘significant’ and ‘live music’. It could unlock government grants and extended trading hours. Concert organisers will also have more freedom to book local acts without automatically triggering the rules that apply to large-scale music festivals. Says Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy, John Graham, “This legislation provides vital protections for our music industry, an industry which was smashed by lockouts, lockdowns and overregulation. It demonstrates the importance of live music to the economy... Important and common-sense changes, like updating the definition of concerts so smaller events aren’t wrongly classified as large scale music festivals and slugged with more red tape, will encourage more live music programming at events across the state, which leads to more jobs for local artists and more live music for fans.” The new laws will also introduce a fairer way of measuring noise at outdoor events, offer free mediation for

Need an antidote to Sydney city life? Breathe out the stressors of the rat race and breathe in some much-needed serenity when you escape to the country. And we’re not just talking about any old town; we’re talking country towns that are picture-postcard perfect. Luckily for you, there’s heaps of them right here in New South Wales and luckier still, the team from World Atlas, a global travel publisher, has compiled a list. Made for slow weekends that are all about R&R, these gorgeous getaways range from surfing villages and sparkling coastal hideaways to pastoral places surrounded by verdant hills and fields of gold. All you need to do is pick a place and hit the road. Ready?  Photograph: Avril Treasure for Time Out SydneyAustralia Rock at Narooma Narooma With its impossibly blue waters, rugged rock formations and abundant marine life, Narooma is one of the South Coast’s great scenic stunners. The town wraps around beautiful Wagonga Inlet, where pelicans, seals and fishing boats are part of the everyday scenery. It’s particularly famous for its fresh oysters, so make sure to slurp up half a dozen of these beauties. Australia Rock – the hole in this rock formation bears a striking resemblance to the shape of Australia when looked at from a certain angle – is another local icon.  Photograph: Destination NSWSeals at Narooma Bundeena On the doorstep of the Royal National Park, Bundeena is all about spectacular coastal scenery and a blissfully easy pace. It’s the northern sta

There’s something magical about travelling to a new city. It’s the thrill of tossing a coin backwards into Rome’s Trevi Fountain to make a wish. The bustle of Mumbai, still buzzing at 2am. The delight of watching sea lions bask lazily in the sun at San Francisco’s Pier 39. Every city has its own rhythm, its own flavours, its own little moments that linger with you long after you’ve flown home. According to 798,867 Condé Nast Traveler readers who voted in the publication’s Readers’ Choice Awards, these are the world’s best large cities. Keep in mind that the list focuses on large international cities with populations of more than 500,000, rather than smaller destinations such as San Sebastián in Spain or San Miguel de Allende in Mexico. Voters were drawn to cities celebrated for their food and drink, architecture, art and culture – from well-loved classics that visitors return to again and again (bonjour, Paris!) to less-touristed spots that deserve a place on your travel wishlist. And, of course, we’re particularly interested in where Sydney landed. Read on to find out. 1. Seoul, South Korea K-pop, K-beauty, K-dramas. The world is in love with all things Korean, so it’s no surprise that Seoul tops the list. It’s a city of delicious contradictions – five grand palaces and futuristic skyscrapers, tranquil temples and neon-lit streets. Add seriously good food (have you tried tteokbokki?), late-night shopping, a buzzing arts scene and mountains on your doorstep, and it’s easy to

You’ve tried tennis, you’ve probably heard of pickleball, but what about padel? If you’re looking for a new way to get active with your mates, this fast-paced racquet sport could be worth a shot. Game4Padel (G4P) has just opened its third club in Port Melbourne, with nine indoor courts where you can have a hit, learn the basics or get competitive. If the name G4P, sounds familiar, it's because they've also got padel clubs in Docklands and Richmond (as well as more in the UK)  – and they seem to be the go-to club for some of the world's biggest athletes whenever they visit Australia. The club is backed by tennis star Sir Andy Murray, and has hosted the likes of Pat Rafter, Alexander Zverev and Stan Wawrinka. And it's not just tennis legends getting around it. Formula 1 drivers Max Verstappen, Lando Norris, Oscar Piastri have also had a hit on G4P's courts during their visits for the Australian Grand Prix. So, what exactly is padel? Think of it as tennis meets squash, played mostly in a doubles format on an enclosed court. It’s easy enough for beginners to pick up, but there’s plenty of scope to get better – and because you’re usually playing in pairs, it’s a pretty social way to get moving. When you’re done playing, you can stick around for a bite to eat, with coffee, craft beer and beverages also on offer. It's one of the fastest-rising sports worldwide, with over 35-million players registered with clubs. Photograph: SuppliedPlaying padel at the G4P padel court, Port Melbou

If you catch public transport on the reg, you probably don’t give a second thought to the stations you pass through on your daily commute to work or uni. But the people at Prix Versailles certainly do, and they’ve just unveiled its World’s Most Beautiful Stations list 2026 to celebrate transport hubs that combine striking design with innovation, character and sustainability. Drumroll, please: Melbourne's new Town Hall station has been named as one of their seven most beautiful train stations in the world for 2026.  Yes, our Town Hall station certainly makes an impression. Sitting beneath Swanston Street in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD, the station was designed by Hassell, RSHP and WW+P, with its vast underground spaces giving the daily commute a distinctly grand feel. Photograph: Quincy Lee / ShutterstockTown Hall Station, Melbourne The station’s concourse is framed by eight enormous columns inspired by trees, with branching forms supporting the canopy overhead. The result is almost cathedral-like, while coppery vaulted ceilings rise ten metres above the wide platforms, creating a sense of space even though it’s underground.  There’s plenty of art to admire, too. Maree Clarke’s Barerarerungar stretches across the Federation Square entrance to Town Hall, while her Tracks appears along the platforms of all five new Metro Tunnel stations. Over at State Library Station, Danie Mellor’s Forever covers the glass façade. Together, the stations form an underground blend of transport

Ready for theatre that will make you laugh, think and possibly question your relationship with your phone? Malthouse Theatre’s 2027 season has arrived, with new artistic director and co-CEO Dean Bryant unveiling eight productions – all new Australian works, including seven world premieres. Expect everything from satire and gothic horror to cabaret, black comedy and adaptations of literary classics, performed by some of Australia’s best-known performers alongside exciting new voices. As Bryant puts it, the aim is for theatre that “electrifies and sends audiences out fully charged”. Here are the highlights of Malthouse Theatre’s 2027 season: The Tartuffe February 19–March 19, Merlyn Theatre If you’re spending a little too much time talking to ChatGPT, this one might hit close to home. Directed by Dean Bryant and starring Eddie Perfect, this modern-day reimagining of Molière’s 17th-century play transforms Tartuffe into an AI-powered hairdressing robot that listens, cares and knows a little too much because its family gives it access to everything. Swim May 12–22, Beckett Theatre Mununjali poet Ellen van Neerven makes their stage debut with this dreamlike work starring Cynda Jace Beare and Tahlee Fereday. On a hot summer’s day at the local pool, gender-fluid protagonist E negotiates the space between the change rooms and dives into something much deeper. Photograph: Nicole ReedStoneyard Devotional Stone Yard Devotional June 4–26, Merlyn Theatre What happens when you walk away f