Avril Treasure

Ever wondered where celebrities eat out in Australia? While our dining scene is full of spectacular restaurants and buzzy bars, nothing puts a place on the map quite like an A-lister sighting. If you’re keen to dine amongst the stars, you’ll want to check out this round-up of celeb-approved eateries across Australia. From Dua Lipa sneaking into a trendy Sydney bar to Taylor Swift twirling pasta at a glitzy Italian joint, these are the places where the world’s biggest celebrities drink and dine in Australia. Yes, you could legit be wiping your mouth with the same napkin Billie Eilish or Jamie Oliver once used. 🍽️ The best restaurants in Australia⭐️ The best luxury hotels in Australia

Looking for weekend fun? You've come to the right place.  NSW Wine’s Winter Cellar Door is heading back to Carriageworks this Sunday, July 5, bringing together more than 20 of the state’s best producers from the Hunter Valley, Orange, Mudgee and beyond for one cracking day of tasting, wandering and discovering your next favourite drop. Tickets are on sale now for just $15 – cheaper than a glass of wine in Sydney. The Incognito Art Show kicks is on now at Carriageworks until July 5. Buy an original artwork by up-and-coming artists and potential Archibald Prize winners for just $100 at this secret art show. Bondi Festival is back from July 3-19 with 17 days of music, theatre, comedy, visual arts and immersive experiences, plus the return of crowd favourites like the ice rink, Bondi Vista Ferris Wheel and the colourful Bondi Beach Sea Wall. This year’s festival is extra special, marking a once-in-a-lifetime nod to Bondi’s postcode (2026) with its biggest program yet. Get into the winter magic at Darling Harbour’s popular ice rink, located in the Palm Grove Forecourt outside IMAX Sydney. As well as daily skating sessions from 10am-9pm, this year’s event will feature new Friday night performances, with six ice skaters taking to the rink at 5.45pm and 6.45pm. If the weather is average but you’re keen to get out of the house (and stay dry), check out our guide to fun things to do indoors. Plus, warm up with Sydney’s most delicious Sunday roasts (crispy pork belly for me), and wor

There’s no beating around the bush: winter is well and truly here. But the fun hasn’t stopped in Sydney – and there are lots of cracking events to entice you out and about. Keen to add more colour to your home? The Incognito Art Show is on right now at Carriageworks – where you can take home a stunning piece for $100. The only catch? You don’t know who the artist is. On Sunday, July 5, NSW Wine’s Winter Cellar Door returns to Carriageworks, featuring more than 20 of the state’s incredible wineries under one roof. Winery hopping around the Hunter, Orange and Mudgee in one day? That’s a big yes from us. Darling Harbour’s ice skating rink has returned, open every day until July 19. Plus, there are free jazz sessions going down at The Rocks every Thursday (fun date idea?). Circular Quay’s Bastille Festival is back with a four-day cheese- and wine-fuelled affair, and Bondi’s annual arts fest is bringing a sparkling line-up of shows, arts and culture to the Eastern Suburbs. Feeling festive? Sydney's Christmas in July celebrations are in full swing, with special menus at Forrester’s, Rick Stein at Coogee Beach, Three Blue Ducks, Chiswick and more – think traditional roasts, all the trimmings and comforting winter desserts, with a side of Xmas cheer. July also marks NAIDOC Week – an opportunity for us to honour the Traditional Owners of the land. The always incredible National Indigenous Art Fair will pop up in its new home, The Cutaway, from July 3–5. For more culture, check out ou

Here's our list of Time Out's best restaurants in Sydney right now, from hot newcomers to time-honoured institutions, curated by our expert, on-the-ground editors and food writers who eat and drink their way around Sydney, including Time Out Sydney's Editor, Avril Treasure. How did we narrow it down to the very best? When deciding, we considered fun, flavour, creativity, value for money – and 'wow' factor. So yes, of course, you’ll find a fine diner inside the Sydney Opera House here, but you’ll also find neighbourhood pasta, hole-in-the-wall Thai and venues right by the sea. Happy dining, Sydney. Editor's favourite restaurants in Sydney: 🥂 Best for a special occasion: Saint Peter 👠 Best for a vibey date night: Vin-Cenzo's ☀️ Best for a long Sunday lunch: Porcine 🍝 Best for an Greek feast: Olympic Meats 🫒 Best for a friends' catch-up: Cibaria Manly Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED READs: Still hungry? Check out our guide to the best cheap eats in Sydney. Want more? These are Sydney's best new restaurants and bars.

Looking for something to do today? So glad you’re here. It’s officially comfort food szn – and we’re here for it. Think hearty Sunday roasts, cosy pubs and plenty of warming, good-value meals. Plus, check out our guides to Sydney’s best Italian, hot noodle soups and yum cha. On that note, work your way through Time Out’s guide to Sydney’s best restaurants and bars, plus the city’s hottest new openings. And if you feel like a boogie, check out the best bars and pubs in Sydney for live music and our guide to the city's best nightclubs.   Grab the crew and head to one of the coolest hidden bars in Sydney, or if the sun's shining, lace up on one of the best walks in Sydney or head out for a lush picnic at these pretty spots. For a culture fix, dive into the fab shows in Sydney right now, and if you need to reset, book in at one of Sydney’s top day spas. Scroll on for our full list of the best things to do in Sydney today.  Want to get your weekend plans in order, right now? Check out our pick of the best things to do in Sydney this weekend.Rain putting a dampner on your plans? These are the best things to do indoors. On a budget? These are the Time Out team’s pick of 25 things to do in Sydney for under $25. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, straight to your inbox. 

Looking for the best cafés in Australia to fuel your next getaway? You’re in luck. Australia's café culture is famous for a reason: we roast – arguably – the world's best specialty coffee and cook up a damn good brunch to match. Whether your ultimate morning looks like a classic smashed avo paired with a batch brew, crunchy corn fritters and an iced matcha, or fluffy buttermilk pancakes with a Bloody Mary, these are the best brunch spots to visit across Australia's capital cities. Of course, there are plenty more exceptional cafés and coffee shops worthy of a spot on this list – but these are the ones tried, tested and loved by our local food writers, including Time Out Australia’s resident foodie, Melissa Woodley. JUMP TO:Sydney | Melbourne | Brisbane | Canberra | Adelaide | Hobart | Perth | Darwin For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🍽️ The best restaurants in Australia🥐 The best bakeries in Australia☕️ The best coffee in Australia

Winter 2026 update: Sydney’s bar scene doesn’t slow down when the temperature drops – if anything, it gets even better. Think cosy corners, silky red wines, smoky whiskies and perfectly shaken Martinis. Whether you’re chasing a hidden speakeasy, a buzzing neighbourhood wine bar, rooftop cocktails with your girlfriends or a proper pint, we've got your winter watering holes sorted.  These spots offer great drinks, warm hospitality and good vibes. From exciting newcomers to long-time favourites, this guide is curated by our local editors and writers, including Time Out Sydney's Editor Avril Treasure. Grab your coat, Sydney – it’s bar season. Editor’s picks: 🍸 Best for cocktails: Silver's Motel 🤫 Best for speakeasy vibes: The Cumberland 🍹 Best for Daiquiris: Razz Room 🍷 Best for vibey wine and snacks: Paradise 🥃 Best for whisky lovers: Banchō Bar 🇲🇽 Best for Tequila & Margs: Centro 86 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. Our list of the best pubs in Sydney Check out our best restaurants here

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.

There are few things more satisfying than hunkering down with a bowl of piping-hot noodle soup. The basic broth and noodle combination is a staple in so many cuisines for good reason. Apart from the obvious deliciousness, the steaminess and hydration factor help to relieve cold symptoms, it certainly helps that the broth is often laden with immunity-boosting ingredients like garlic and ginger. Not that we need an excuse.  Whether you prefer your bowl filled with rich tonkotsu, deeply herbal pho, or scattered with tongue-numbing Sichuan pepper, there’s no shortage of soupy goodness in Sydney. Here are our favourite noodle soups to warm your cockles, rounded up by Time Out Sydney's writers and fellow noodle-soup lovers... 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 the best Thai restaurants in Sydney right now Check out our guide to the top Chinese restaurants in town

Sydney has a bewildering range of eateries and cuisines, with almost every style of restaurant and region of the world represented. Many of them are looking to serve you and the people of Sydney for the cheapest price possible, you just need to know where to look. Choosing the best cheap eats is like picking the greatest songs ever made, there are countless options, and everyone will have a different opinion. Compiled by a team of local Time Out experts, this list brings together eateries from all regions of Sydney, with each pick being an outstanding option for that cuisine or style of eating. It’s not the cheapest meals in Sydney, but the best affordable options. We’ve tried, as best as possible, to include only venues where you can get a meal for one for under $25. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Want to spend less at the big-ticket players? Check out our cheap fine-dining hacks.

There’s plenty of delicious reasons to get outside this winter – and Sydney’s hot new bars and restaurants are high on my list. Recently, I’ve been blown away by Ca Phe Mai in Double Bay – it’s a Vietnamese café and wine bar and you should order the juicy lemongrass pork and egg muffin. A cracking new pizza-by-the-slice shop has opened in Darlinghurst from the founder of Bourke St Bakery called Paulie’s Pizza, and Manly has a new underground Irish-inspired bar called The Gopher with black pudding Scotch eggs, open until 3am. 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.

Hello! Welcome to your weekly wrap of what’s on. Keen to jazz up your home? The Incognito Art Show is on now at Carriageworks – but not for long. Buy an original artwork by up-and-coming artists and potential Archibald Prize winners for just $100 at this secret art show. Get into the winter magic at Darling Harbour’s popular ice rink, located in the Palm Grove Forecourt outside IMAX Sydney. As well as daily skating sessions from 10am-9pm, this year’s event will feature new Friday night performances, with six ice skaters taking to the rink at 5.45pm and 6.45pm. Bondi Festival is back from July 3-19 with 17 days of music, theatre, comedy, visual arts and immersive experiences, plus the return of crowd favourites like the ice rink, Bondi Vista Ferris Wheel and the colourful Bondi Beach Sea Wall. This year’s festival is extra special, marking a once-in-a-lifetime nod to Bondi’s postcode (2026) with its biggest program yet. There are plenty of excellent shows in Sydney this week, with my top pick being Garry Starr: Classic Penguins, now on at Carriageworks. It’s laugh-until-you-cry funny, with the award-winning comedian baring all. Check out the best shows to see in Sydney this month here. Need a laugh? The Comedy Store in Moore Park has been Sydney’s go-to spot for belly laughs since 1981, with affordable shows every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night. Acclaimed First Nations artist Tony Albert has opened his largest-ever solo exhibition at the MCA. Tony Albert: Not a Souveni

Back in May, sommelier Nick Hildebrandt and chef Brent Savage announced they would be closing their fine diner Bentley Restaurant and Bar this winter after more than 20 years at the top of its game (and five-star reviews from Time Out). The award-winning restaurant, which originally opened in Surry Hills in 2006 before moving to its current home in Sydney’s CBD on O’Connell Street in 2013, is housed within a heritage sandstone building dating back to the 1850s, now part of The Paradox Hotel Sydney. It will have its final service at the end of August. But because this is the Bentley Group we’re talking about – talent who are always one step ahead of the curve and not afraid to change things up, close the curtains when the time is right, or start fresh when opportunity arises (see: Monopole, Cirrus, Yellow, King Clarence, Watermans, and the soon-to-open Ashe and Bar Vespertine, for example) – this isn’t goodbye for good. Instead, Hildebrandt and Savage are on the lookout for the next perfect home for Bentley’s third act. “This feels less like an ending and more like a natural moment to pause and reset,” says Hildebrandt. “The move from Crown Street to the CBD was a defining evolution for Bentley, and now it feels like the right time for that next transformation.” For the final few months of service, Bentley Restaurant and Bar has rolled out the culinary red carpet with a greatest hits menu for both the tasting menu and bar menu – featuring the restaurant’s best dishes over its

Housed within a converted 1800s two-storey terrace on the corner of Glebe Point Road and Mitchell Street is this beautiful wine bar and restaurant. No 92 has had quite the life, beginning as The Waratah pub before becoming a bank, boot factory and private investigator’s office, as well as a home. These days, it’s run by a team of women: founder Angela Kasimis, Sascha Neising leading front of house, and sommelier Isobel McFadden. Inside, it’s light-filled and elegant, the work of Sydney-based Pattern Studio – all dark wooden floorboards, round charcoal marble tables, pops of bright florals and warm sunlight streaming through the windows. If the weather’s warm, beeline it for the courtyard, featuring a giant elephant ear taro plant and lush greenery. Happy hour runs 5-6pm Wednesday to Friday, and 3-5pm on Saturday, with cocktails and snacks at a feel-good price point. The space, including upstairs, can also be booked for private events, long Champagne-fuelled lunches and celebrations. Drawing on Mexican flavours, the menu is fresh, seasonal and well-balanced. No 92 has launched a new bottomless brunch available on Saturday, featuring free-flowing drinks alongside flavour-forward share plates served over 1.5 hours. Priced at $99 per person, the package includes cocktails, prosecco and house wines, as well as bergamot and raspberry bellinis and non-alcoholic options. Menu highlights include tuna tostada with shoyu mayo, fermented chilli and shiso leaf; Wagyu tartare with green p

This no-frills shop has been serving classic Aussie-style hamburgers since 1957 – and it makes one of Sydney’s best. Burgers cost anywhere from $25-$30 these days, so getting a delicious, generous and freshly made burger for $15.50 makes you feel like you’ve won the day. Paul’s Famous Works burger, layered with a meat patty, fresh salad, fried egg, melted cheese, bacon and pineapple, is where it’s at. The worst bit? It’s over too soon. Pair yours with an old-school vanilla milkshake and it’s one seriously good meal. Time Out tip: Go at off-peak times and you may have the place to yourself, say, 4pm on a Friday. And they are mandatory on any South Coast road trip. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED READS: These are the best burgers in Sydney. Check out the best cheap eats in Sydney right now.

✍️ 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’d heard about the burger. Sydney is home to many mouth-watering options, but when Joe’s Tavern opened in the Inner West last October, word spread about its 50/50 one as fast as gossip at my all-girls’ high school. And it turns out, for very good reason. The Joe’s Tavern burger arrives with a pickle speared through it. Caramelised on the outside and pink in the middle, the patty is equal parts beef and lamb, the latter flavour carrying through nicely. It’s paired with sweet, jammy onions, chopped onions for crunch, melted nutty Ossau-Iraty cheese and Dijon for zing, all cushioned in a soft bun. Tomato, lettuce, beetroot? Forgetaboutit. Joe’s is rich, meaty and juicy – and doesn’t mess about. So yes, come for Joe’s burger. But there’s a lot more happening at this golden Australian Street spot. The vibe Joe’s Tavern is a 30-seat restaurant and bar from Paisano & Daughters – the team behind steak diner Porteño, as well as right-next-door siblings Continental Deli, seafood party place Mister Grotto and Italian restaurant Osteria Mucca. Originally, the site was home to sunshine-like plant-based diner Flora. But less than a year after opening, the team switched gears to a concept inspired by New York taverns serving the classics, with a focus on nose-to-tail cooki

If you haven’t yet been to Caness, Paddington’s excellent tapas bar, then here is the perfect time to do so. On Sunday, May 24, the sleek Oxford Street spot is throwing a big birthday bash to celebrate its first birthday – and you’re invited. Four top Sydney chefs will take over the kitchen, serving up $15 loaded Spanish sandwiches, as well as mussel crisps and a halva Basque cheesecake – with proceeds from the day being donated to OzHarvest, Australia’s leading food rescue organisation. The line-up is killer, with Vinicius Oliveira (ex-Bar Vincent and Estela in New York), Diego Duarte (Shaffa), Damir Mujanic (Refettorio) and Caness’ head chef Jorge Alcala all creating their own spins on the classic bocadillo. Plus, guests can enjoy Caness’ G&Ts, $12 Spanish beers, wines plucked from the cellar and non-alcoholic sparkling Conscious Drink by Kakadu Kitchen x OzHarvest. A live jazz duo will be keeping the vibes high. One dollar from every one of Mujanic’s bocadillos and every Conscious Drink sold on the day will be donated to OzHarvest. And every dollar donated provides two meals for people in need. Caness co-owner Erez Nahum says: “We’ve been so heartened by the support we’ve received from the community over the past year that we want to share this day with them,” he says. “But we’re also very aware that people are doing it particularly tough. “We’ve been involved with OzHarvest for a long time, and we think this is the perfect occasion to shine more of a spotlight on the impo

✍️ 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’ve had some of the best dining experiences of my life at Bathers’ Pavilion. One was many years back: a long Sunday lunch where warm sun poured through the windows overlooking Balmoral, and time flowed as easily as crisp Chablis. I was seagull-with-a-hot-chip happy to dine at both of L’Enclume’s residencies – a thrilling collaboration that saw one of the world’s best restaurants take over the seaside institution for winter (twice), giving Sydneysiders the chance to experience Michelin-starred dining, minus the jetlag. My most recent visit was just as exceptional. Clever, lively dishes. Service that elevates the experience. Golden, crunchy seaweed-dusted potato scallops humming with salt, vinegar and childhood nostalgia. As I’m about to leave, I overhear a woman say to her date, “The food is always delicious here. Beautifully paced meal. Lovely view.” The vibe Those cortisol-lowering Balmoral views really are lovely – and on a sunny day, there are few places I’d rather be. The elegant, coastal-chic dining room, all blue-and-white stripes, walnut furniture and snow-white orchids, makes you linger a little longer and order one more drink. I’d argue the team, overseen by restaurant manager Jessica Mead, is one of the finest in Sydney – polished, intuitive and ge

✍️ 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.  If you’ve been to Italy, you’ve probably been to All'Antico Vinaio, the famous Florentine sandwich shop, which now has more than 30 stores dotted all over the world. Will O’Brien vividly remembers trying his first one in Florence when he and his wife were travelling around Europe for six months. He reckons it was the best sandwich he has ever had. On that trip, they were always drawn to local delis, where locals linger over hot espresso in the morning sun and pop in the afternoon for an aperitivo. During that holiday, his dream to open an Italian-style deli serving Florence-inspired panini was born. Fast forward a decade, and Will, who spent years working as a chef at top Sydney restaurants, moved up the coast with his family to Newcastle. And in 2022, Arno Deli opened up inside a building the colour of whipped butter, located on 181 King Street. I’ve been a fan of Will’s sandwiches ever since I first tried them back in February 2023. Every time I’m in the area, and really, even when I’m not, I make sure to drop in. Florence may have David, but Newcastle has Arno. Add it to the top of your hit list. The vibe Arno isn’t big, and it’s often filled with couples on a morning walk, friends catching up, and road trippers. There’s an exposed brick wall on one side;

Been wanting to try the hugely popular Olympic Meats? Now you have an exclusive, one-night opportunity to reserve your spot. To mark Time Out’s Food Month (and our Food & Drink Awards), we’re hosting a Time Out Social Club dinner at this special Award nominee restaurant. Come find out why it’s one of our Food & Drink Award nominees for 2026 – and why there’s always a huge crowd out front. They don’t normally take bookings, but now you don’t have to line up! For one night only, Olympic Meats will be serving a generous Greek feast, designed as a greatest-hits tour of the menu. Bring yourself, bring your mates, bring your yia-yia or your papou! Book over here. When Tuesday, May 12Times 5:30pm & 7:30pm seatingsWhere Olympic Meats, 12 Dudley St, MarrickvilleCost $70 pp set menu(wine, beer & non-alcoholic drinks available for purchase from the menu)Book here Menu: Pita | Sourdough pita breadFava | Split fava dip, wood-fired mushrooms, bukovo, all spiceTarama | Smoked roe, queen may potatoOlympia’s Spanakopita | Wild greens, feta, circa 1961Htapodi Xidato | Pickled octopus, green chilli, onionChips | Tallow, nostimini, triple-cookedKreas | Pork & chicken on the spit, lamb leg kondosouvliTsigaridia me badzaria | Escarolia, fennel tops, dill, shallots, beetrootBougatsa me krema | Wet phyllo, vanilla custard Secure your table over here. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more fun stuff to land in your inbox.

Fact: Sydneysiders love sipping sparkling wine and Champagne – it only takes the sun to come out or for freshly shucked oysters to grace a menu for us to order a bottle of bubbly. So it’s good news then that a festival entirely dedicated to bubbles is returning to Sydney this year, and yes, we would like a top up, please. Organised by The Bubbles Review, a website devoted to the enjoyment of Champagne and sparkling wine, the first Bubbles Festival was held in Melbourne in 2017. Since 2021, it's been travelling to other cities like Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth. This year's Sydney event takes place at the Royal Automobile Club of Australia, a gorgeous heritage-listed building right by Circular Quay, on May 22 and 23, so gather your bubble-loving pals and get there. What can you expect? How about some excellent sparkling wines from NSW producers as well as bubbles from across Australia and internationally, including Champagne. Each ticket includes a two-hour tasting session where you’ll enjoy more than ten types of sparkling in a Riedel Champagne tasting glass. You'll also get to chat to the growers and producers, plus enjoy tasty canapés.   Says Natalie Pickett, founder of The Bubbles Festival, "I think that Champagne and sparkling wine are one of the joys of life and something to be shared. We love bringing all of these superb sparkling wines together with our followers at The Bubbles Festival." Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or looking for something different to do

✍️ 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 first time I had cochinita pibil, I was three Dos Equis deep at a roadside stall after spending the morning diving into the electric-turquoise waters of Tulum’s Playa Paraíso. I remember the spiced, juicy pork, brightened with citrus, and the crunch and zing of the pickled red onions. I practically inhaled it. The most recent time was at Newcastle’s new Mexican restaurant, Papalote. Here, pork shoulder is marinated in achiote, garlic and orange before being cooked for eight hours in a traditional brick pit oven. It arrives wrapped in banana leaf – like a hunger-inducing Mayan gift – and crowned with sliced fresh and pickled red onions, with Marydia’s corn tortillas and non-wallflower salsas on the side. It’s a brilliant rendition of one of my favourite Yucatán dishes, and it also disappears quickly. Anyone who hasn’t visited Newcastle recently is missing out. I could point to the rolling waves, incredible ocean baths and the lack of Big City Rush. But really, you should come here for the food – and make sure Papalote is high on your list. The vibe Last November, locals and long-time friends – sommelier-chef couple Stephanie Wells and Michael Portley from Hunter Street’s pasta and vino palace, Humbug, and the charismatic Eduardo Molina from easy-breezy fi

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.

How good are road trips? A few hours on the open road, fuelled with servo snacks and the excitement of what’s to come. That’s how I feel driving south to Huskisson, a pretty, laid-back coastal village found in the Shoalhaven region of NSW, near the world-famous beaches of Jervis Bay. Around a 2.5-hour drive from Sydney, the award-winning spot (Huskisson was named Top Tiny Town in Australia in 2024, and has made the Top Towns Hall of Fame 2026) is home to bush-trimmed coves, vivid turquoise water, at least three fish and chippers on the main drag, a delightfully charming old cinema, and one of my personal favourite bakeries (more on that below).  If it’s been a while between weekend escapes, here’s everything you need to know about Huskisson, from where to eat and where to stay. Photograph: Avril Treasure for Time Out SydneyFish and chips in Huskisson Where is Huskisson? Huskisson is a chilled-out seaside town on the shores of Jervis Bay, south of Sydney. It’s known for its ridiculously clear water, dolphin and whale cruises, independently owned cafés and some of the South Coast's best seafood. Husky is also a popular base for exploring the rest of Jervis Bay, including the famous Hyams Beach, which gets its brilliantly white sand due to the grains being made up of nearly pure quartz crystals that reflect a high amount of sunlight, as well as Vincentia and the surrounding national parks. How do you get to Huskisson? The easiest way is by car. From Sydney, it's around a 2.5-h

What do Mick Jagger, Frank Sinatra, ABBA, Harrison Ford, Rihanna, Kerry Packer, Neil Armstrong… and my mum and her ex-boyfriend all have in common? They have all dined at Beppi’s – Australia’s oldest continuously owned Italian restaurant in Darlinghurst. I find this out when I mention to my mum where I’m off to for the evening, her eyes starting to glaze over with Barolo-laced memories. She tells me she can still remember the rich tomato sauces, the wine cellar dining room, the traditional flavours, and the warm hospitality. Though this isn’t all that unusual: mention the word Beppi’s to any Sydneysider and I pretty much guarantee they’ve had many memorable evenings there. If only the walls could speak. Photograph: Jason LoucasBeppi's dining room Beppi and Norma Polese opened a small Italian restaurant in Darlinghurst in June 1956 – the same year television broadcasting officially began in Australia and Melbourne held the country’s first Olympic Games. At the time, Beppi’s was serving things unfamiliar to many Australian palates, including olive oil, fresh pasta and regional Italian flavours that are commonplace today. Over the years, the warm, cosy restaurant drew a loyal following for its delicious taste of Italy, served with consistent old-school charm. Photograph: Jason LoucasA pasta dish at Beppi's Beppi’s is also home to one of Australia’s most impressive restaurant wine cellars, occupying half the dining room and stocked with thousands of bottles, including rare It

I think it’s when I’m onto my second Negroni, armed with a plate of snacks (warm pita, creamy taramasalata, lemon-spritzed asparagus and salty prosciutto), watching my colleagues-turned-friends in our tennis grand final (I was robbed), the sun starting to turn pastel, that I think: team retreats can’t get much better than this.  Photograph: Avril Treasure for Time Out SydneySnacks at McGuigan House We’re staying at McGuigan House – a sprawling, enchanting Hunter Valley estate located 20 minutes from Pokolbin and two hours from Sydney – for a team getaway. Lucky ducks. Quack quack. Photograph: Supplied/McGuigan HouseInside McGuigan House Built in the 1980s as the home of fourth-generation winemakers Brian and Fay McGuigan, the historic property was reopened in September 2025 by its new owners, Meg and Luke Berry, after years of planning and renovations, as a luxury retreat and stunning wedding venue. Photograph: Supplied/McGuigan HouseOut the front of McGuigan House And it really is stunning. Set on 10 acres of manicured, English-style gardens and a private vineyard, the estate looks like it’s been ripped from the pages of Vogue Living, Kylie Jenner’s property portfolio, or the daydream of every diamond ring-wearing bride-to-be. Photograph: Avril Treasure for Time Out SydneyOut the front of McGuigan House There are verdant green lawns, sweeping views of the Brokenback Ranges, a magnesium turquoise pool, a tennis court (where I lost), and an outdoor fire made for golde

Where can you find the world’s best pizza? Most people would point to Naples, where pizza in its modern form first emerged in the late 18th century – built on flatbreads topped with summer-sweet tomatoes, creamy mozzarella and fragrant basil, and cooked in a wood-fired oven. Neapolitans take pizza-making so seriously there are even strict rules defining what constitutes a true Neapolitan pizza, set by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (AVPN), covering everything from diameter and dough to fermentation time and ingredients. Now, you don’t need to jump on a plane to taste the best pizza in the world, with news that Simone Zullo, who owns Fratelli Pulcinella in Parramatta alongside his brother Alessio, has been crowned world champion for 2026 at the Trofeo Caputo World Pizza Championship in Naples, Italy. Simone won the coveted STG Neapolitan Pizza (Traditional Speciality Guaranteed) category with his Marinara pizza, judged on dough preparation, fermentation, stretching technique (by hand only), cooking, balance and flavour. Photograph: Supplied/Fratelli PulcinellaSimone Zullo after his win “We are incredibly proud,” said Simone and Alessio Zullo, who both hail from the small town of Alife in southern Italy. The win follows Simone’s second consecutive world title, after his 2025 World Champion win in the Pizza Classica category. “This victory represents years of sacrifice, passion and hard work. It is not only a win for our family and our team, but also a celebration of

Update Thursday, June 18: Earlier this month, the first Airbus A350-1000ULR destined for Qantas' Project Sunrise routes – that will directly connect Australia's east coast to London and New York – completed its inaugural test flight. The successful flight kicks off a two-month testing period, with Qantas having just announced the world-first non-stop services between Sydney and London will take off in October 2027. This will mark the very first time the Kangaroo Route has ever been flown without stops from Australia's east coast. If you’ve ever been lucky enough to fly to Europe’s sparkling shores, you’ll also have been brave enough to have endured the heinously long, multi-stage journey time to get there. But thanks to Qantas, the Sydney to London passage is set to get a whole lot smoother over the next few years. Almost eight years ago, Qantas announced its ambitious plan to launch direct flights from Sydney to London and New York. Clocking in at just over 20 hours, the Sydney to London route will claim the title of the longest non-stop passenger flight in the world. The initial 2025 launch was pushed back due to technical issues and pandemic-related delays, but after new supply chain hiccups, take-off of the first route is now expected in October 2027.  Photograph: Supplied/QantasInside “project sunrise” Airbus A350-1000 jet Currently, the world’s longest flight is Singapore Airlines’ direct service from Singapore to New York, which covers around 15,300 kilometres in rou

Dreaming of a tropical winter escape? Hellooo, Noosa Food & Wine Festival. Since launching in 2003, the four-day culinary party has grown into one of Australia’s best food and wine festivals – and it returns Thursday, June 11 to Sunday, June 14. From celebrity chef dinners to wow-worthy collaborations and beach soirées, these are the events worth booking. Photograph: Supplied/Noosa Food & Wine Festival The Festival Village I reckon everyone should get a ticket to the American Express Festival Village. Firstly, it’s the cheapest ticket you can get, and it comes with complimentary canapés, a cocktail to enjoy under the palms, plus vibey DJs and bands to have a boogie to. You’ll also catch live cooking demos from some of Australia’s best chefs, including Louis Tikaram (Stanley), Jason Barratt (Supernormal), Darren Robertson (Three Blue Ducks), Sarah Pound (Wholesome by Sarah), Ben Cooper (Chin Chin), Alessandro Pavoni (Cibaria) and Marion Grasby. And there will be 40+ food and wine stalls along the waterfront festival site to explore. When? Saturday, June 13, from 10.30amHow much? $49.50Book here Photograph: Avril Treasure for Time Out Sydney Rickys x ESSA: A Collaborative Long Lunch Noosa’s waterfront stunner Rickys is teaming up with Brisbane’s award-winning ESSA executive chef Phil Marchant for a produce-led six-course menu that’s sure to blow your mind. The views alone are worth it. When? Sunday, June 14 at 12pmHow much? $280 per personBook here Photograph: Sabrosa Dim

You probably wouldn’t think some of Sydney’s best pizzas are found in a Redfern shopping mall, but here we are. To be fair, it’s not any old mall – it's Wunderlich Lane, the multi-million-dollar newish precinct home to Olympus Dining, Lottie, Bar Julius, Island Radio, Vitelli’s Upstairs, The Eve Hotel and more (plus Coles and Harris Farm too). I’ve visited all those venues, but I was yet to go to Regina La Pizzeria, by pizza chef Matteo Ernandes (formerly Matteo and Da Orazio) and Michela Boncagni, sommelier and co-owner of Sydney’s LuMi Dining. Until the other week. And I’m very glad I now have. Photograph: Ethan SmartPizza chef Matteo Ernandes In May, Regina La Pizzeria was awarded three slices in Gambero Rosso – the highest honour a venue can receive in the well-established Italian pizza guide. It was the only Aussie venue to receive the top recognition this year, with other Sydney venues recognised including Lucio’s, Via Napoli and Pompeii. The Redfern restaurant won points for its excellence across ingredient sourcing, service and dough. Matteo is pretty passionate about pizza dough – he wants it to have the perfect light texture and chew, without leaving you feeling overly full. That love began growing up in his family’s pizzeria on the Sicilian island of Lampedusa, learning from his dad. At Regina, the team says they specialise in ‘contemporary pizza, redefining tradition with innovative dough techniques.’ Their high-hydration dough is 80 per cent water, which creat

When Prefecture 48 opened in late 2024 in a heritage-listed building in Sydney’s CBD, it flew under the radar. It shouldn’t have. Named as a nod to Japan’s 47 prefectures (similar to Australia’s states), Prefecture 48 from the Azabu Group is a six-in-one, multi-level Japanese dining precinct. I revisited it recently, and it blew me away. First up, we stopped at Dear Florence, an elegant, light-filled patisserie featuring elevated takes on the classics with Japanese flavours, by head pastry chef Chris Chua. If it’s your first time, try the Florence Cake, a multi-layered stunner featuring 70 per cent Valrhona chocolate mousse, hazelnut mousse and a white miso ganache. The Serenity, with matcha, hojicha, vanilla sea salt and chocolate, is another crowd favourite. Photograph: Avril Treasure for Time Out SydneyThe Florence Cake at Dear Florence Then, we headed to the Whisky Thief, a sleek cocktail bar with an extensive whisky collection and date night written all over it. The Shibuya Highball (Toki whisky, toasted puffed rice, cream soda) is a subtle and smooth tipple, while the Whisky Thief Cocktail (Toki whisky, hojicha tea, fava tonka, wattleseed, cream) is a beautifully balanced delight. After a couple of cocktails, it’s straight to Garaku, a kaiseki dining experience where you can sit down and enjoy a multi-course contemporary Japanese meal led by Tetsuya's former executive chef, Derek Kim. The polished dining room, with its modern design, pops of neon colour and long, slee

The ranking of the world’s best burgers by Upper Cut Media – the same London-based publisher behind the annual world’s best steak restaurants list – has dropped, with two Sydney spots cracking the top 10. Named third best burger in the world for 2026 was the American cheeseburger at Café Margaret in Double Bay, by acclaimed chef Neil Perry. When asked about the secret to creating one of the world’s best burgers, Perry had one clear answer: “Only the best ingredients.” “We take CopperTree Farms’ beef – a mix of brisket and chuck – grind it daily and hand-form the perfect 160g patty, cook it to medium, and serve it with melted American cheese, rose mayo (spiked with umami and tomato sauce), onion and pickles in a milk bun, with the option to add fresh chilli and bacon,” he adds. Photograph: Avril Treasure for Time Out SydneyNeil Perry’s burger at Cafe Margaret Double Bay At $29, it’s not the cheapest burger in Sydney, but the quality of the produce, perfect balance of flavours and bang-on seasoning are what make this burger a standout. I’ve had it a couple of times and it’s up there for me (alongside the ones from Eat at ROBs and Paul’s Famous Hamburgers). In 10th place was The International Burger at The Grill at the swish, three-in-one CBD stunner, The International. Created by award-winning chef Joel Bickford, the burger features an 180g O’Connor beef patty, developed with celebrated butcher Anthony Puharich of Victor Churchill and Vic’s Meat. It’s paired with a soft potat

Update, Monday, June 1: In case you missed the news, the rest of Vivid Sydney’s drone shows have been cancelled for this year’s festival, following technical difficulties that saw nearly 90 drones fall from the sky in last week’s performance. Fireworks will replace the drone shows, which were scheduled for 7.30pm and 9.30pm from Sunday to Wednesday nights throughout Vivid (except Sunday, June 7). It was set to be Vivid’s biggest drone show yet. A statement from the organisers said: “Following Monday night’s unforeseen technical issue at the Vivid Sydney ‘Star-Bound’ drone performance, Vivid Sydney can confirm the remaining drone shows scheduled for this year’s festival will not proceed. Fireworks displays will now complement the Laser Lightfall experience in Darling Harbour at the times previously scheduled for drone shows, adding another layer of spectacle to Vivid Sydney’s harbour celebrations. We understand this will be disappointing for audiences and appreciate the public’s understanding. Public safety remains the absolute priority and all decisions have been guided by expert technical and regulatory advice.” ***** Update: Tuesday, May 26: Vivid’s drone show has been cancelled for now after technical difficulties during Monday night’s performance. Dozens of drones fell into the harbour during the 7.30pm show, with both tonight’s and tomorrow night’s performances cancelled to allow for a “full technical and safety review”. “Monday’s 7.30pm Vivid Sydney ‘Star-Bound’ drone

Sydney does a lot of things well, but finding a cracking Irish pub done right can feel as rare as a four-leaf clover. Happily for the expats in Sydney – and any local who loves Guinness – a newly opened bar beneath Manly Corso is hoping to make the Irish proud. It’s taken over the former home of Old Manly Boatshed, a local icon, so it’s awesome to see the space put to good use. Descend a low-lit stairwell and you’ll find the door to The Gopher, shining like a pot of gold for the taking. Inside, the Irish-inspired late-night tavern – it's open until 3am on Friday and Saturday nights – feels lived-in, even though they just opened their doors this May.  Photograph: Supplied | The Gopher Designed with worn textures, vintage fixtures and reclaimed century-old lighting, the look and feel come courtesy of co-owner Matt Clifton, who is also responsible for Manly faves The Cumberland, Donny’s Bar and Henry G’s. There’s no Emerald Isle paraphernalia here but there are plenty of nods to the Gopher Gang, a rebellious Irish American street crew from Manhattan’s Hell’s Kitchen, from which the venue takes its name.  In pride of place, the long-stretching bar is pouring traditional Irish fare alongside Kilkenny and a rotating UK beer of the month, but the more adventurous might want to turn their attention to the cocktail menu. Order up the Hells Bells, a butter-washed Martini or The Sinner, a pineapple and habanero Margarita.  Photograph: Supplied | The Gopher Save yourself a flight

Since 1999, Grappa has been serving locals perfectly al dente spaghetti alle vongole and ruby-red tuna carpaccio. Now, you don’t have to travel to Norton Street to get your red-sauce fix, as the legendary family-run Italian restaurant has opened in The Rocks, in the former home of Rockpool. Founder Charlie Colosi – who opened Grappa alongside his father Antonio 26 years ago – and wife Virginie have brought their old-school hospitality, delicious Italian dishes and passion for wine to the CBD for the first time, snapping up the 107–109 George Street site that’s been vacant since 2022. “In a way, hospitality is like inviting people into your own home, so that’s how we want the guest experience to feel,” says Charlie. Photograph: Steven WoodburnCharlie’s Bar The heritage sandstone building, which was originally built as a bakehouse in the 1860s, has been transformed into a 300-seat stunner, featuring a glamorous dining room, the upper-level Art Deco-style Charlie’s Bar – which can be hired out for events – private dining rooms, and an outdoor terrace on George Street, set to open later this year. The menu, led by head chef Adam Nicholls, who has worked alongside Colosi since 2001, features all the hits: wood-fired pizzas and bread, fresh pasta handmade daily, market-fresh seafood and premium cuts of meat. Photograph: Steven WoodburnTomahawk steak at Gramma Highlights include fresh figs wrapped in prosciutto di Parma with melted gorgonzola, pistachio and balsamic reduction; v