Avril Treasure

It's the weekend! Let's go. Free this weekend and love Mexican food? Great. Get on the ferry and head over to Manly, as El Vilsito – one of Mexico City’s top taquerias (it’s Michelin Guide-recommended) – is doing a takeover at Felons Manly called La Mexicana. Come for authentic tacos al pastor, sweet and zesty charred corn, smashable spicy watermelon Margs, and a whole lot of colour, music and Mexican fun. A street party is taking over Stanley Street in Darlinghurst this Saturday, March 21. The family-friendly event will feature tasty eats, music and kids' activities. Sydney Streets on Stanley Street kicks off from 11am to 10pm. Find out more here.Want to cheer on the Tillies but don't have $50 to spend on tickets to the game? A huge screen at Darling Harbour's Tumbalong Park will be screening the action for free – kick-off is 8pm. The 25th Biennale of Sydney (named among the best exhibitions in the world for 2026) is back. There’s a lot to see and experience – and the best part is that it’s here for two months, so you don’t need to tackle it all in one day. Free Friday night? Art After Dark is going down at White Bay Power Station – one of Syd's coolest venues – with gigs, art and food. Broadway’s award-winning show Purpose has been brought to life by Sydney Theatre Company. It’s about a powerful African American family, and how it’s thrown into chaos when its estranged youngest son returns home with an uninvited guest. Oprah Winfrey said it’s “brilliant and funny and serio

I hope you’re having a happy and delicious March. I’ve been out non-stop checking out Sydney’s best new restaurants and bars to bring you this up-to-date list, including Turkish restaurant Hamsi Taverna by Somer Sivrioğlu, and Southeast Asian restaurant Lua by Luke Nguyen – both of which are now open at the new Sydney Fish Market. I really love affordable new Indo eatery Temu Kangen in Haymarket, and my favourite new bistro, South End in Newtown. Plus, there’s Las Palmas, a holiday-coded Mexican spot in Manly, a fancy British restaurant called The James, Besa, a hot new tapas bar from the Aalia team, and Vitelli's Upstairs, a New York-style Italian restaurant. We really do live in a delicious place, don’t we? (Yes, I’m full.) Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Looking for something to wash it all down with? These are our favourite bars in Sydney right now. Keen to eat your way around the city? These are the best restaurants in Sydney, from hot newcomers to the OGs.

There’s no doubt about it, Sydneysiders can’t get enough of Italian food. And who can blame us? There’s something about a bowl of perfectly al dente pasta paired with a luscious, rich ragu that just hits the spot. And while Italian cuisine differs throughout the 20 incredible regions – broadly speaking, the northern regions eat more rice and polenta, while down south they feast more on seafood – Italians share a love of beautiful, seasonal produce; they choose simplicity rather than overcomplicating dishes and cook with soul. No wonder we love it so much. Luckily, there are plenty of excellent options for Italian dining in Sydney. Time Out’s food writers and editors – including Editor Avril Treasure, who has eaten her way through Sicily, Sorrento, Rome and Florence – have picked our favourite eateries, covering all bases. The only catch? They just need to provide a feel-good environment and dishes you’ll want to come back for. From casual red-sauce joints and classic pizzerias to fine-dining restaurants, you’ll find them all here. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Not in the mood for pasta? Here are our picks of the best spots for Greek and French food in Sydney.

Hello! Welcome to your weekly wrap of what’s on.  It’s still so humid, don’t you reckon? Luckily, you can cool off at Pool by Pier Bar – an Amalfi-inspired enclosed harbour pool right by the five-star hotel, and the best part is that there’s a bar. A street party is taking over Stanley Street in Darlinghurst this Saturday, March 21. The family-friendly event will feature tasty eats, music and kids' activities. Sydney Streets on Stanley Street kicks off from 11am to 10pm. Find out more here. The Biennale of Sydney – Australia’s largest contemporary arts festival – is back for its 25th edition, and it’s completely free. There’s a lot to see and experience – and the best part is that it’s here for two months, so you don’t need to tackle it all in one day. Hungry? Burwood Chinatown Night Market runs Thursday to Sunday from 5-10pm, and it's always a delicious, fun time. Afterglow is a striking new work, now playing at the Eternity Playhouse in Darlinghurst until March 22. The Broadway hit is said to be a “raw, funny and sensual exploration of polyamory, commitment and modern love.” Get your tickets here.  Broadway’s award-winning show Purpose has been brought to life by Sydney Theatre Company. It’s about a powerful African American family, and how it’s thrown into chaos when its estranged youngest son returns home with an uninvited guest. Oprah Winfrey said it’s “brilliant and funny and serious and complex and powerful” – and our reviewer gave it five stars. Get a ticket here, and

Looking to live it up on your next Aussie getaway? We’ve got you covered. Australia is packed with standout accommodation, from new boutique stays with heated infinity pools to revamped classics boasting five-star rooftop bars and close proximity to our country's best attractions. But with so many options, finding the best hotels in Australia can feel a bit overwhelming. That's where we come in. Our expert team of travel writers, including Time Out Australia's Travel & News Editor Melissa Woodley, have stayed at hotels across every state and territory to bring you this ultimate guide to the best hotels in Australia. Whether you’re a local looking for a gram-worthy staycation or a tourist eager to be in the heart of the action, these are the top places to stay in Australia right now. Editors' favourite hotels in Australia: 😱 Best new hotel: Mondrian Gold Coast, QLD ⭐️ Best hidden gem: COMO The Treasury, WA 🌊 Best bucket-list hotel: InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef, QLD Sydney | Byron Bay | Perth | Melbourne | Gold Coast | Brisbane | Adelaide | Hobart ☀️ Australia’s most incredible resorts🤩 The best things to do Down Under🌏 The best places to visit in Australia 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 allow us to bring you more recommendations every week. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

As Peter Allen once sang, everything old is new again. And honestly, we couldn’t agree more. If the rising cost of living has you clutching your wallet and climate anxiety has you giving fast fashion the flick, op shopping just might be the answer. Affordable, endlessly surprising and packed with personality, buying second-hand is kinder to your bank balance, gentler on the planet and quite stylish.  Of course, not all op shops are created equal; some are bursting with vintage gems and barely-worn designer pieces, while others require a lot of patience to trawl through rows and rows of goods. With huge chains like The Salvation Army and St Vincent de Paul Society (Vinnies) running hundreds of stores across the country, it can be tricky to know which ones are worth the rummage. That’s where we come in with this guide that rounds up Sydney’s very best op shops – handpicked by a seasoned thrifter who knows a bargain when they see one. Think racks of retro threads, vintage furniture finds and plenty of statement pieces waiting to be discovered. Get ready to hunt for treasures at the best op shops in Sydney. 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. Keep thrifty with our guide to the best cheap eats in Sydney, then celebrate with one of the best happy hours in the city.

Sometimes for dinner, all you want to do is rest easy and let the food come to you – without even thinking about what to order. Enter, set menus. Not only do you get to taste a rotation of a restaurant's greatest hits, but it also often works out to be more cost-effective – and that's a win-win in my books. I’m constantly eating my way around Sydneytown to discover the best set menus, from casual eateries to fine diners, grouped into three price points: $65 and under; $85 and under; and $100 and under. Currently, I’m crushing on the $44 group set menu at feel-good Bar Reggio and the $65 set menu filled with fresh and bright dishes at Emma’s Snack bar in Enmore. From birthday celebrations with the family to a long boozy Saturday lunch with the gang, these set menus have you covered. So, round up your mates, make a booking and get ready to eat!  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. ALSO RECOMMENDED: Work your way through Time Out's guide to the best cheap eats in town Check out our ultimate guide to the best happy hours in Sydney Eat well and save with Sydney's cheap meal specials for every night of the week

Brimming with boutique studios, sprawling mega-chains and everything in between, Sydney is a gym junkie's paradise. But the amount of choice can be overwhelming. Luckily, our Editor-in-Chief Alice Ellis has worked in the fitness industry, so she knows what sets a mediocre, money-wasting gym apart from a gym that'll actually have you motivated to lace up those sneakers and head out the door. A good gym isn't necesarily the trendiest or most aesthetic one; it's the one you stick with so that you can achieve the results you're after (whether that's building strength, losing weight, getting your stress in check or trying out a new physical activity and connecting with community). Over the years, Time Out's team have covered a lot of ground when it comes to trying out Sydney gyms! So if you're ready to swipe that membership card and sweat, read on to find the right fit for you. Looking for a healthy feed? Here's our guide to healthy eateries that don't suck. Prefer to pound the pavements? These are the best run clubs in Sydney. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, things to do in Sydney, travel inspo, food and more, straight to your inbox.  

Ah, food. Glorious, glorious food. If there’s one thing Australians will happily cross state lines (or book flights) for, it’s a very good meal – ideally paired with an equally excellent drink in hand. In 2026, the festival calendar is once again stacked. Nearly every state, city and regional town now has a signature food and drink celebration, many built around what grows best in their own backyards: cool-climate pinot in Victoria, seafood pulled straight from the ocean in Queensland, tropical flavours in the Top End and produce so fresh it barely makes it off the farm. These events bring together the country’s best chefs, winemakers, farmers, brewers and producers – often in places you’d happily plan a long weekend around anyway.  So, whether you’re a wine wanker, a seafood seeker, a beer buff or a truffle hunter, here are the food and drink festivals in Australia that turn a good weekend away into the whole point of the trip. Editors' favourite food and drink festivals in Australia: 🍷 Best for wine lovers: Orange F.O.O.D Week, NSW 🍽️ Best for serious foodies: Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, VIC 🍜 Best for something new: Darwin International Laksa Festival, NT 🍽️ The best restaurants in Australia🎸 The best music festivals in Australia

Australia takes its baked goods very seriously. Between our sourdough-centred meals, we all need a little sweet treat (trust us, you deserve one). Luckily, Australia's best bakeries are giving Parisian pâtissiers a run for their money, creating their own takes on classic baked goods that taste as good as they look. You’ve undoubtedly heard of the big players (hello Lune Croissanterie), but there are plenty of neighbourhood gems to spend your hard-earned dough. While we wish we could shower love on every flaky croissant, pie and sausage roll, our expert food writers, including big bakery fan Melissa Woodley, have narrowed it down to a handful of the best bakeries in Australia right now. NB: There are so many incredible bakeries scattered across the country, but this list focuses on highly-rated spots in Australia's major cities. We'll leave the hidden gems and regional favourites for you to discover for yourself. Want more? Here are the best bakeries in: Adelaide | Brisbane | Canberra | Darwin | Hobart | Melbourne | Sydney | Perth

A burger seems simple. Grill a patty, load it with cheese, condiments and other fun bits. Then pop this delicious mess between two buns and not many folks will complain. But to elevate a good burger to an exceptional burger? Now this is truly an art – one that Sydney isn't too bad at, given we were recently ranked third best in the entire world. Do you go with the classic sesame seed or the more gastronomic potato, milk or brioche buns? Do you prefer American cheese, blue or cheddar? How about caramelised onions, pickled or raw? Lettuce and tomato, or cheese and pickles? Is your protein power chicken, fish, beef, or mushroom? And we haven’t even gotten to the question of fries yet.  There are a thousand variations on a burger, but Time Out Sydney's local food writers, including Editor Avril Treasure, have tried all the top buns in town – and these are the best in Sydney right now. 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: These are Sydney's best pizza joints. Want more carbs? These are Sydney's best pasta spots.

Did you know Australia’s last-standing pub theatre is right here in Sydney? Found below Woolloomooloo's 150-year-old Old Fitzroy Hotel, the Old Fitz Theatre is the place for boundary-pushing shows from some of the city's most talented creatives. If you find a night free, and feel like something different – and supporting indie work! – check out what's on here.  Now, let’s dive into more theatrical fun currently on in Sydney. If you loved & Juliet and Six the Musical, then I reckon you’ll love Head Over Heels, now on at Hayes Theatre. From the makers of Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Avenue Q and Spring Awakening, this is a serotonin-spiking queer comedy musical with Shakespearean-style romance and ’80s hits. Get your tickets here. Afterglow is a striking new work, now playing at the Eternity Playhouse in Darlinghurst until March 22. The Broadway hit is said to be a “raw, funny and sensual exploration of polyamory, commitment and modern love.” Get your tickets here. In an exciting coup, the most awarded new American play of 2025, Purpose, is on now at STC's Wharf 1 Theatre. Our reviewer gave it five stars – you can read it here. The excellent Gatsby at The Green Light has returned to the Sydney Opera House until March 29, transforming the Studio into a 1920s-inspired club plucked from F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic world. Scroll on for the best musicals, plays and more to see in Sydney this month. RELATED READS: It’s guaranteed laughs galore at the Comedy Store Make Tuesdays more

Flying 1,000 feet above water, past sandy half-moon coves dotted with white sails in the turquoise sea, lush bush-cloaked headlands, and soaring above the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House, I thought to myself: Sydney is bloody beautiful. Based in Rose Bay and operating since the mid-2000s, Sydney Seaplanes runs scenic flights and fly-and-dine experiences daily. Passengers can take the ‘Sydney Highlights’ journey ($310), flying above the curve of Bondi Beach before looping back over the Harbour Bridge and Opera House. Or try the ‘Sydney Secrets’ route ($440) which begins at Rose Bay, follows the Northern Beaches to Palm Beach (the birthplace of Home and Away), glides over the waterways of Pittwater, and finishes with Sydney’s biggest landmarks. Before boarding, our friendly pilot Nick Amey runs through a safety briefing, and then it’s go time. Along the way, he points out landmark beaches from Camp Cove to Shelly Beach, Avalon to Palm Beach, peppering his commentary with insightful facts from high in the sky. At one point, a pod of 20 dolphins frolics around Barrenjoey Lighthouse. Nick tilts the plane so passengers can capture the best photos as the flight returns to the inner harbour at 1,000 feet. The Manly Ferry looks like a tiny toy boat from above. The grand finale circles the fortress island of Fort Denison before the plane lands on the water in a rollercoaster-like rush. Back on land, the Sydney Seaplanes terminal houses a high-end waterside dining spot where locals a

Hotel Harry, a good-times-only Surry Hills pub on the corner of Wentworth Ave and Goulburn Street, owned by The Point Group (also Shell House, The International, The Dolphin, Hotel Canobolas), has reopened after a massive reno. So, what’s new? Well, firstly, the name – the Aussie pub just goes by Harry’s these days. It’s had a fresh, modern spruce-up, thanks to talented interior stylist Anna Hewett (the eye behind Shell House’s groovy, immaculate fit-out), while still retaining its retro charm that nods to its 1912 inception. Culinary director Joel Bickford and executive chef Danny Corbett are behind Harry’s jazzed-up menu, with standout dishes on the opening line-up including Bannockburn organic rotisserie chicken with garlic caper butter, ’nduja pangrattato, roast potatoes, fried Brussels sprouts and a roast chicken jus; a whopping 750g grain-fed bistecca Fiorentina; and a wood-fired Calabrese pizza with sausage, ’nduja, pancetta and vodka sauce. Come for sun-dappled lunches with cold beers, a full-blown feast with your friends and vibey late-night DJ sessions. Co-founder of The Point Group Brett Robinson says: “For over 15 years we’ve watched this precinct grow into one of Sydney’s most vibrant and creative neighbourhoods, thriving with quality restaurants, bars, galleries and hotels. The evolution of Harry’s not only moves with that energy; it creates a true focal point for it. A place to meet. A place that anchors the area. A pub made for Surry Hills.” Let’s go, Harry.

Newcastle is a ripping place to visit year-round – home to my favourite sandwich shop, incredible ocean baths and pumping surf – but if I had to pick a month, it would be in April, during the city’s annual food and wine festival. When the ocean’s still warm, the mornings are fresh, and the city comes together to eat, drink and celebrate the best the region has to offer for Newcastle Food Month. It’s around a 2.5-hour drive from Sydney to Newy (including stops), meaning you could do the trip in a day, but that’s no fun. Enter Crystalbrook Kingsley – Newy’s first five-star hotel, conveniently located on King Street – with just the package for you. During April, the heritage-listed hotel is offering a ‘Foodie Sleepover’ – designed for food lovers, couples, or anyone looking for some rest and relaxation – complete with delicious cheese, cocktails and other treats. Here’s what’s included: 15 per cent off the best available rate on overnight accommodation for two at Crystalbrook Kingsley Two Earp Distilling Co x Crystalbrook Kingsley cocktails on arrival (yes, please) A cellar door wine tasting experience for two in the city with the award-winning First Creek Wines A delicious local cheese package featuring treats from Binnorie Dairy, Baked Uprising and Pukara Estate. Enjoy it in your room (and in your robe) – or take it to go for a picnic in the afternoon sun A bottle of First Creek vino If it’s been a while since you last visited Newcastle, or you’re just in need of a weekend g

Charcoal-grilled Wagyu skewers with zippy nam jim jaew, bronzed murtabak roti stuffed with soft-braised eggplant and spinach, plump spanner crab dumplings in bright tom yum sauce, and bass grouper wrapped in banana leaf with sambal and watermelon salad. These are just some of the vibrant, punchy dishes now on the menu at Rasa House – a “borderless Asian” restaurant and wine bar right on the water in picturesque Rose Bay. Leading the next chapter is new head chef, Philippines-born Keno Perlas, formerly of Margaret, Monopole and Cho Cho San, who is focused on “deliciousness without limitation” – an ethos shared by Rasa founder Vinay Matta. “Inspiration is all around, you just need to be willing to embrace it,” says Vinay. “The idea for Rasa House came from my travels, my art as a screenwriter, my heritage and my parents’ journey in hospitality – I’ve learnt a lot from them, but I’m also ready to make things my own. To do something that isn’t rooted in legacy but will create a legacy of its own.” (Wondering about Vinay’s parents? They founded Rose Bay institution, Jewel on the Bay, which is conveniently found right next door.) The funky dining room is decked out in earthy tones with fun, colourful accents and custom murals by local Sydney artist Mali Pilgrem Blasco, which bring life and warmth to the open space. Plus, the alfresco seating lets you and your date soak up sparkling views of Rose Bay Marina and Shark Island. Spanning drops from Australia, Spain, France, South Africa

Holy smokes – one of Austin’s best pitmasters, Kareem El-Ghayesh of KG BBQ, is coming to Sydney this May for the barbecue-laced collaboration of our dreams. Known as the ‘Egyptian Cowboy’, KG will be teaming up with Sydney’s own Lennox Hastie – from the award-winning Firedoor and Basque-inspired wine bar Gildas – for four massive and delicious events filled with honky-tonk parties, live music, masterclasses, and a hell of a lot of excellent smoked meats. Originally from Cairo, Egypt, KG moved to Texas to master the art of barbecuing, blending traditional smoking techniques with the bold spices and flavours of Egypt and the Middle East. He’s starred on Netflix’s Barbecue Showdown and made waves in the US barbecue scene. Back in 2024, Lennox travelled through Austin hunting smoke, fire and the best meats in the biz. Now, he’s teaming up with one of the world’s most celebrated pitmasters. Hold onto your cowboy (or girl) hats – let’s get into the juicy bits. The low ’n’ slow takeover kicks off on Friday, May 1, with a Honky Tonk dinner featuring a full-blown feast cooked by KG and Lennox at Sydney Brewery Rozelle. Think show-stopping barbecue platters loaded with Central Texas-style smoked brisket, KG’s signature pork ribs, dry-rubbed in za’atar and glazed with pomegranate barbecue sauce, and smoked lamb chops. It’ll come with a banging line-up of sides like Egyptian mac and cheese, cinnamon and turmeric rice, and traditional Egyptian salad. Plus, enjoy beers created in collabora

✍️ Time Out Sydney never writes starred restaurant and bar reviews from hosted experiences – Time Out covers restaurant and bar bills, and anonymously reviews, so that readers can trust our critique. Find out more, here.  Does The Dry Dock in Balmain serve up Sydney’s best scotch egg? I haven’t tried them all, but I’d put my money on it. It’s fried until golden and crisp on the outside, with a savoury, juicy, well-seasoned pork filling and a gooey yolk. Sauce piquante brings sweetness and tang, balancing the richness and making it the perfect bar snack – even better with an on-point Bloody Mary after a big night out. But The Dry Dock does more than excellent British snacks. I’d also say Balmain’s historic boozer is one of Sydney’s finest pubs. Considering how packed it is with locals on a Sunday evening, I’m clearly not the only one who thinks so. The vibe Established in 1857, the heritage-listed Dry Dock is the oldest licensed pub in Balmain. In the mid-1800s, it was frequented by Mort’s Dock workers – Australia’s first ‘dry dock’ – in search of a cold ale. In November 2023, after a year-long renovation, the venue was reopened under new ownership by seasoned hospitality professional James Ingram (ex-Merivale, Rockpool, Solotel, Etymon) and Balmain local Mike Everett, with the main goal of creating a haven for locals. It’s a beautiful, multifaceted pub, designed by interior architect Bianca Isgro – the kind I wish was around the corner from me. There’s alfresco seating ideal

Located within a 150-year-old former steel mill, this lively brewery and pub pours award-winning craft beers – plus a couple of limited-edition brews to try (would be rude not to).

✍️ Time Out Sydney never writes starred restaurant and bar reviews from hosted experiences – Time Out covers restaurant and bar bills, and anonymously reviews, so that readers can trust our critique. Find out more, here.  The vibe Located on Lawrence Hargrave Drive in the idyllic seaside village of Coledale, about a 20-minute drive from Wollongong, is Rosie’s Fish & Chips – home to the best fish and chips in the state, in my books (and judging by the line snaking out the door, half the South Coast might agree). The family-owned shop is run by British-born chef Ben Sinfield and his partner Tania Ho, and is named after their daughter. There are a handful of blue tables out the front, but your best bet is to waddle down the hill and enjoy your lunch on the grassy patch in front of Sharky Beach with front-row ocean views. And that lunch? It’s reely, reely good. The food Rosie’s Fish & Chips serves sustainable, wild-caught Aussie fish, depending on what’s fresh and available – such as gurnard, flathead, sea bream, blue mackerel and pink ling – all sourced directly from local fishermen. Opt to get it grilled or beer-battered in an ale from Wollongong’s Principal Brewing. The fish itself is pristinely fresh, succulent and delicious with a squeeze of lemon and dunked into a zingy, chunky tartare. The chippies take home my Best Chip Award. Spuds are cut by hand and cooked in Aussie beef dripping – adding an extra layer of depth and flavour. They’re triple-cooked until deeply bronzed,

✍️ Time Out Sydney never writes starred restaurant and bar reviews from hosted experiences – Time Out covers restaurant and bar bills, and anonymously reviews, so that readers can trust our critique. Find out more, here.  “I’m in love. I’m having a relationship with my pizza.” Those are the words said by Julia Roberts’ character Elizabeth Gilbert in the 2010 romcom Eat Pray Love as she bites into a thin, floppy slice of Margherita pizza topped with summer-ripe tomatoes and melted mozzarella. She’s dining at L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele in Naples, a family-run restaurant founded in 1870. That fleeting scene was enough to catapult Da Michele into global fame, with 80 pizzerias now found worldwide from London to Tokyo and Milan. Last December, L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele opened its first-ever Australian venture on Sydney’s Pitt Street near Circular Quay. So, how does it stack up against the city’s already excellent scene? The pizzas are pretty great. And considering a classic – and ginormous – Margherita will set you back $18, it’s fantastic value. But it’s not all sunshine and tomatoes. We had to request serving cutlery for our starters. Our Montepulciano came in mismatched glasses, including one branded ‘Select Spritz’ (though, at $12 a pop, who really cares?). Instead of crisp cos, the ‘Original Caesar’ was made with what looked and tasted like a pre-mixed bag from Woolies. Still, if you’re after affordable Napoli-style pizza in the CBD – minus the jetlag – smashable Limonce

✍️ Time Out Sydney never writes starred restaurant and bar reviews from hosted experiences – Time Out covers restaurant and bar bills, and anonymously reviews, so that readers can trust our critique. Find out more, here. February 2025 update: Potts Point’s Vermuteria has changed its name to Bar Hernandez. Co-owner David Spanton says: “We have returned the name to tap into the history of the place (formerly Café Hernandez for 50 years) and to have a name that is easier for people to say.” Nothing else has changed, including the great daily happy hour – featuring cheap cocktails, tapas, sherry, wine and vermouth. It’s also an excellent choice for a date. Read on for our review from 2023. ***** Deciphering how to say Vermuteria is about as difficult as defending against Sam Kerr. And we’re not the only ones who have found it challenging – the team posted a video on Instagram where they quizzed guests on how to say the name, with varying levels of success. When we visit on a Wednesday evening, it’s the second thing we ask our waiter. He answers with a warm, knowing smile: “Ver – mutt – err – ria.” Case closed. Now, we can focus on what matters most: drinking and eating. Located on Kings Cross Road, Vermuteria has taken over the former Cafe Hernandez site, which operated there for 50 years as a Spanish café. Before that, the building was home to a Polish deli. With Vermuteria, owner Dave Spanton (the founder of Australian Bartender Magazine, and hole-in-the-wall nearby spot Picco

For people of Islamic faith, Ramadan is the most sacred month of the year. During this time, Muslims fast from dawn to dusk. But once the sun sets, iftar begins – a fast-breaking feast that runs late into the night, bringing family and friends together to enjoy an array of rich treats and moreish morsels. To coincide with this time of year, Sydney’s popular month-long celebration Lakemba Nights is back, running every Thursday to Sunday from February 19 to March 15, 2026. RELATED READ: The 5 must-try dishes at Sydney's Lakemba Nights Ramadan markets. What time does Lakemba Nights during Ramadan open and close? From 6pm until 2am, Thursday through to Sunday, more than 60 local businesses will transform Lakemba’s Haldon Street into a vibrant, global food bazaar with traditional cuisine from Indonesia, Burma, Pakistan, India, Lebanon, the Cocos Islands, Syria and more. Time Out tip: We recommend getting there early, around 6pm, and making a beeline straight for the busiest stalls (they're the ones with fences up for lines!). It’s not only Sydney’s Muslim communities that comes together during Lakemba Nights – people of all backgrounds are welcome to flock to sample the fare of pop-up kitchens and food trucks lining Haldon Street. What started as a single street barbecue back in 2012 has grown into what many consider one of Australia's best places to celebrate the ancient tradition, with the event from previous years drawing in more than one million people across the month.

Orange FOOD Week – the country’s longest-running annual regional food festival and my personal favourite food and wine party – returns this autumn, celebrating the area’s incredible produce, producers and chefs. Running from March 20-29, the 2026 edition of the festival will once again bring together local farmers, winemakers, coffee roasters, cheesemakers and food-lovers – AKA those in the food, wine and beer biz – for ten days of feasting and celebrations. Now in its 35th year, Orange FOOD Week 2026 will feature close to 100 joyous and delicious events happening across the small township and surrounding farmlands of Orange. Gather your mates and plan your road trip now. RELATED READ: I write about food for a living – and this is the NSW food festival I never miss. Most of the events at FOOD Week are ticketed (you can have a suss at all of them here). While some flagship events are sold out, there’s still the option to put your name on the waiting list. Plus, there are plenty of free happenings and even more great eateries to experience while you’re in Orange (Hey Rosey and The Schoolhouse Restaurant at The Union Bank are my top picks). Highlights of FOOD Week include the outdoor Night Market (March 20), featuring food and wine stalls serving local delights under festoon lights in Robertson Park; the gorgeous alfresco long lunch, Sampson Street Lunch (March 21), which includes a three-course meal plus paired wines; and lots of meet the producer workshops, where you can meet

Sydney is an incredible city – but there’s a serious issue that’s not talked about enough: how many young Sydneysiders are living on the streets, and the stats are heartbreaking. According to research by YFoundations – the peak body for youth homelessness in NSW – 40 per cent of people experiencing homelessness in Australia are under 25. Approximately 43,000 young people in the country seek help each year, with one in three of those having experienced domestic and family violence. And here’s another blow: around half of children and young people are turned away when seeking crisis accommodation because the system isn’t adequately funded to respond to their needs. Spearheaded by YFoundations, the Young & Alone campaign’s goal is that every child and young person will have a safe place to go – and they aim to do that by raising awareness about youth homelessness in Sydney and throughout Australia. One of the ways they do this is by shining a light on Youth Homelessness Matters Day (YHMD). Started in 1990 to raise awareness of youth homelessness, YHMD is a national movement led by YFoundations – and the next one is coming up on Wednesday, April 15. Yfoundations also partners with many charities supporting the country’s homeless youth, providing housing and support services to young people in crisis across Sydney. YFoundations CEO John MacMillan says: “The majority of people don’t know the extent of the issue of youth homelessness, and when they learn about it, they’re shocked th

If you haven’t yet checked out the new Sydney Fish Market, here’s another reason to visit. Celebrated Vietnamese-Australian chef, restaurateur and television presenter Luke Nguyen has opened a 300-seat Southeast Asian restaurant overlooking the shimmering water at Sydney’s new fish haven, in partnership with Doltone Hospitality Group. Called Lua, meaning “fire” in Vietnamese, the new restaurant is inspired by Nguyen’s heritage – he was born in Bangkok to Vietnamese parents before moving to Australia and growing up in Sydney’s Cabramatta area. Fresh, vibrant and full of flavour, seafood is a big focus of the menu, with dishes given added character thanks to an open hearth and charcoal fire pit. Photograph: Steven Brown The opening of Lua comes off the back of the closure of pioneering Vietnamese restaurant Red Lantern – which Nguyen co-founded with his sister and her husband – which had its final service in November 2025 after 23 years. Nguyen is still involved with Botanic House in the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney and Fat Noodle at The Star Sydney, as well as having stalls at Hay St Market, plus Vietnam House in Ho Chi Minh City. Photograph: Steven Brown Nguyen says: “I’ve looked at the diversity of Vietnamese cuisine, looking at dishes from not just one region, but all regions of Vietnam, from north to south. But also getting my inspiration from the Mekong River – so many Southeast Asian countries snake through that river. Travelling down that Mekong really brought all th

Vivid Sydney, Australia’s largest festival of lights, returns from May 22 to June 13 for its 16th year. The 2026 program is set to be ‘bigger and bolder’ than ever, featuring 23 days packed with installations, events and sparkly experiences spanning Vivid Light, Vivid Music, Vivid Minds and Vivid Food. For the first time ever, Vivid Sydney will also take place during the day – with a series of events, installations, talks and performances – before the city transforms into a technicolour spectacle of lights as the sun sets. There’s lots to like about this year’s fest, including that the drone shows are back after being cancelled last year due to safety concerns (fair). Cockle Bay in Darling Harbour will host 22 dazzling shows across 11 nights – the highest number of drone shows in the festival’s history – named Star-Bound. The Vivid Light Walk will also return to being a free, unbroken 6.5km journey of wonder and awe, transforming Circular Quay and The Rocks, Barangaroo and Darling Harbour with 43 light installations and large-scale projections, as well as laser and digital art. In fact, more than 80 per cent of the festival is free. Don’t miss the two showstoppers: Molecule of Light, the festival’s tallest installation at 23 metres, and Obstacle, one of the longest-ever works stretching 45 metres along the harbour. Plus, French artist Yann Nguema will light up the Sydney Opera House sails with a major new work, Opera Mundi, inspired by nature’s transformations and the element

Walking into The James, found on the ground floor of The Langham, feels like stepping into a beautifully whimsical British world. The dining room of the new 120-seat restaurant by SRG Hospitality – the team behind Aqua Dining, Akti, Sails Lavender Bay, The Nielsen, Noi, The Fenwick and more – is an impressive feast for the senses. Grandma-coded curtains, plush seating, 1940s-inspired artworks, soft golden lighting and mosaic tiles, all designed by Perry Drakopoulos, create an elegant, timeless space that deserves a spread in Architectural Digest. There’s even a custom family crest that appears across timber joinery, upholstery and menus. Fancy. Photograph: Daniel Chen Heading up the kitchen is Sam Tuchband (ex-Trinity London, Aria and Franca), whose menu showcases classic British dishes through a modern lens. Menu highlights include Welsh rarebit pain perdu; bubble and squeak Lancashire hotpot; blue mackerel niçoise with watermelon; and the signature James steak tartare. Photograph: Avril Treasure for Time Out Sydney The beef wellington, served tableside, arrives tender and pink on the inside, with a buttery, bronzed pastry shell. It’s a must-order – and even better with a side of rosemary roast potatoes and creamed spinach. For dessert, there’s a tableside knickerbocker glory – a remix of a British ice-cream sundae – a sticky toffee pudding soufflé; and fig tarte tatin. “I’m excited to welcome Sydneysiders, as well as guests from across Australia and beyond, to The James

Whoever says winter is about hibernation hasn’t met the Bathers' Pavilion team. The award-winning fine diner, which overlooks Balmoral’s picturesque cove, has teamed up with world-renowned British diner L'Enclume for winter sold-out residencies in 2023 and 2025.  Now, the coastal restaurant has announced its next move: SingleThread – the three-Michelin-starred restaurant from Healdsburg, California, recently named joint No.1 on global guide La Liste – is heading to Bathers’ Pavilion for an exclusive four-week winter residency. Led by wife-and-husband team, head farmer Katina Connaughton and chef Kyle Connaughton, who was formerly the head chef of Research & Development at The Fat Duck under Heston Blumenthal, SingleThread is a farm-to-table restaurant and inn, located on a 24-acre regenerative farm in Dry Creek Valley with vegetables, fruit, flowers, olive trees, beehives, chickens and more. Produce is currently growing on their farm for the Bathers’ residency, and executive chef Aaron Ward is heading to California in April for menu development alongside Kyle and his team at SingleThread. The winter residency at Bathers' Pavilion, which will run from Tuesday, July 28 to Sunday, August 23, 2026, will see the team relocate to Balmoral and serve up a stunning 10-course tasting menu to lucky Sydneysiders. Photograph: John Troxell Kyle Connaughton says: “SingleThread is about the dialogue between farm, kitchen and guest. Coming to Sydney allows us to explore that philosophy thr

Bondi has welcomed a sexy new Spanish restaurant and bar inspired by Madrid’s electric underground scene. Called Besa, which comes from the Spanish word for kiss, this 65-seat venue is from the Esca Group, the team behind Sydney favourites Ito, Nour, Aalia and Joji. Come for vibrant tapas served in a lively, vibey dining room, with DJs spinning from Friday to Sunday. Executive chef Ibrahim Kasif (ex-Porteno, Bodega, Stanbuli, and currently leading the kitchens at Nour and Henrietta) and head chef Alan Kropman (ex-Aalia and Sean’s) are behind the oceanic, delicious dishes. Photograph: Avril Treasure for Time Out Sydney “Tapas is about expression and community,” says Kasif. “Every region in Spain has its own language when it comes to food, and we wanted to honour that while cooking in a way that feels natural to Bondi. At its heart, Besa is a place where you can enjoy good food, conversation and late-night wine with friends.” Menu highlights include a pan con tomate that’s juicy and sweet, doused in olive oil and flecked with salt; gildas with a pop of fruity chilli flavour; blue mackerel with butter leaf and encurtidos; raw beef carpaccio with white anchovy and goat’s cheese anchoïade; fideuà negra of squid ink egg noodles with grilled chicken and aioli; and confit potato, onion and egg tortilla. Finish with a velvet-smooth, creamy flan with figs. Photograph: Avril Treasure for Time Out Sydney The striking design, led by architect Matt Darwin, features mid-century nods ble

From sweet mangoes to prawn rolls, ocean dips, backyard barbies, after-work picnics and the sounds of cicadas, Sydney summers are as good as they come. Sadly, our hottest season has officially ended for another year, and while it will stay warm for a while now, cooler times are on their way. The good news is that daylight saving is still here – just not for long. Wondering when the clocks go back? Here’s a handy explainer covering what you need to know about the end of daylight saving in NSW... Photograph: Destination NSW When does NSW daylight savings end? Mark your calendar: daylight saving in NSW ends on Sunday, April 5, 2026. Clocks will move back one hour, marking the end of those long evenings and the return of cooler, bright mornings. Make the most of the extra night light while you can and squeeze in a few more swims and alfresco fun. Do the clocks go forward or backward when daylight savings ends? Clocks fall back at the end of daylight saving in NSW. Do you always forget which way the clock goes? A handy way to remember is with this saying: “Spring forward, fall back.” So, in spring, at the start of daylight saving, the clocks spring forward. In autumn ("fall"), they fall back. What time do the clocks change in NSW? In NSW, the clocks go back at 3am at the end of daylight saving. So, at 3am, the clocks will move back to 2am. Essentially, the hour from 2am to 3am happens twice. Why do the clocks go backward? The clocks go backward in NSW at the end of daylight savi

Rockpool, one of Australia’s finest steakhouses – and winner of Time Out’s Legend Award 2023 – has launched a new five-course beef tasting menu celebrating wood-fired flavours, the best of Aussie produce and South American flair. Inspired by executive chef Santiago Aristizabal’s South American roots (he was born in Medellín, Colombia), along with chef Amy Milliner and in-house butcher Cristian Acero, formerly of Buenos Aires institution Don Julio, the menu features premium beef rarely experienced together in the same meal. Guests will enjoy cuts of David Blackmore Mishima, full-blood Wagyu, Cape Grim Black Angus and Rockpool Reserve F1. Carnivores – let’s go. Photograph: Chris Pearce Menu highlights include ash-baked potatoes with whipped bone marrow (as delicious as it sounds); buttery scotch with deeply flavoured Oaxacan-style mole; grilled rump cap with golden, crunchy arepas, pork-braised beans, bright tomato, jalapeño and coriander salsas, finishing with Rockpool’s take on a carlota cake with lime-clotted Jersey cream and sweet-corn ice cream. Photograph: Steven Woodburn “This menu lets me bring the flavours I grew up with into the Rockpool kitchen and show how they sit alongside Australia’s best beef,” says executive chef Santiago Aristizabal. “I spent time eating my way around South America last year – markets, street food, family restaurants, everything – and those experiences shaped the way each course has been put together. It’s a way for us to draw on those Sou

It's been almost three years since Ed Sheeran serenaded crowds of 110,000 and 108,000 people over two epic nights at the MCG in March 2023, and now he's back in Melbourne and ready to rock Marvel Stadium.  As one of the best-selling music artists of all time (not to mention everyone's favourite wedding first dance artist), Sheeran has already performed in Perth, Brisbane and Sydney as part of his Loop Tour – and from what we've heard, he does not disappoint. Expect to hear hits such as ‘Castle on the Hill’, ‘Thinking Out Loud’ and ‘Perfect’, as well as songs off his brand new album Play. Excited? You bet we are. If you're heading to see Ed Sheeran in Melbourne, here’s everything you need to know... When is Ed Sheeran's Loop Tour in Melbourne? Sheeran is taking over Marvel Stadium for three massive shows on Thursday, February 26; Friday, February 27; and Saturday, February 28. How to get to Ed Sheeran's Melbourne concerts Marvel Stadium is right next door to Southern Cross Station, so public transport is by far the best option to get to the concert. Simply walk over the convenient footbridge to get from the platforms to the stadium entrance. For info on how to plan your public transport journey, head over here.  What time will Ed Sheeran come on stage? Gates open at 4pm, and Sheeran is expected to begin by around 8pm. The support acts will kick off around 5.15pm (more on that below). What can I bring to Ed Sheeran's Melbourne shows? There are specific rules for what you can an

Call me biased, but I reckon NSW is home to some of the world’s best restaurants. From Raes on Wategos to the Hunter Valley’s EXP and Sydney favourites like Quay, Saint Peter and Margaret, the state’s dining scene is hotter than the CBD in January. There’s one spot on NSW’s laid-back, sandy-footed south coast that’s been on my hit list for years: Rick Stein at Bannisters, a restaurant by British chef, TV star and author Rick Stein, housed in the five-star Bannisters by the Sea. (OK, yes, I’ve also dreamed about diving into that azure infinity pool, too.) Photograph: Supplied | Bannisters by the Sea When the world-famous seafood restaurant opened in 2009, it was Stein's first venture outside of the UK. Now, Stein, alongside his Aussie wife Sarah Stein, has 11 venues, including Rick Stein at Bannisters Port Stephens. Excitingly, there’s another at our fingertips, with Rick Stein at Coogee Beach opening inside the beachfront InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach this December. I thought there was no better time to experience the OG. Safe to say my expectations were high. Photograph: Rick Stein at Coogee Beach After spending the day by the pool and deep in Sally Hepworth’s latest page-turner, we headed to dinner, the gum trees glowing gold in the sunset and the smell of sea salt in the breeze. We were warmly welcomed by the team before kicking things off with a Ginger Fusion – a cooling and balanced cocktail with notes of cucumber, ginger, grapefruit and lime – alongside pris

A few weeks ago we brought the very good news that Sydney officially scrapped its remaining lockout laws – the mandated policy for 3.30am last drinks being the main one – ending a decade-long era of restrictions and doom and gloom. Unfortunately, we may be taking two steps back with the news that one of the city’s most lively pubs is facing strict regulation from the police. A Newtown icon, the Marlborough Hotel, known by locals as The Marly, has been in operation since 1860 and is one of King Street’s most recognisable pubs. Owned by hospo group Solotel, which is behind other popular venues like The Bank Hotel, The Abercrombie, Darlo Bar and more, The Marly can draw in 1,500 punters on a busy night, according to the SMH. However, due to “ongoing compliance issues” from alcohol-related incidents including assaults in the past five years, local police are now pushing the NSW Independent Liquor and Gaming Authority to introduce a range of conditions for the popular pub, such as alcohol restrictions, facial recognition cameras and dance floor limits. Photograph: Destination NSW Local councillors say the move would be at odds with the great strides the NSW government’s vibrancy reforms have made in recent times. These include venues no longer being able to be shut down due to a single noise complaint, the standing-while-drinking rule being scrapped, and the removal of sign-up rules at clubs and RSLs, as well as extended trading hours for venues that host live performances (to d

What makes a restaurant romantic? White tablecloths, flickering candlelight, Frank Sinatra and, hopefully, a cracking date? Well, the team at OpenTable has dropped its annual Top 50 Romantic Restaurants in Australia list – and they all have one thing in common: they’re perfect for your next date night. Photograph: Hugh O'Brien Nine restaurants in New South Wales – including three in Sydney – have been named among Australia’s most romantic, according to data from the online booking platform. Based on real guest reviews and booking data collected from December 1, 2024 to November 30, 2025, the team looked at a range of things, including ratings, five-star reviews, advance bookings and search interest, to narrow it down. The final 50 list was determined by the percentage of reviews tagged “romantic”. Photograph: Avril Treasure for Time Out Sydney RELATED READ: The most romantic restaurants and bars in Sydney that couples will love Neptune’s Grotto, winner of Time Out Sydney’s Restaurant of the Year 2025, has been named one of the restaurants best for dates, thanks to its vibey dining room, delicious Italian dishes and, yes, soft candlelight. Following the Italian theme is Enmore Road’s Osteria di Russo & Russo, also named among the country’s most romantic restaurants. And Bathers’ Pavilion, which overlooks Balmoral’s idyllic cove, is also perfect for romantic long lunches and Cupid-approved dinners. Photograph: Destination NSW | Andrew GregoryViews of the Bathers Pavilion f