Caitlyn Todoroski

We all remember studying (and being fascinated by) the four states of matter back in science class. Well, now you can humour your inner child with W Melbourne’s science-y sips that have fancy interpretations of solid, liquid, vapor and gas, plus an emphasis on what it’s calling the ‘fifth’ matter: curiosity. The new Curious Matter menu at Curious, W Melbourne’s dimly lit futuristic bar, has been experimented on to perfection in collaboration with innovative mixologist Matt Whiley (Sydney’s Olympus, The Apollo, Cho Cho San). He’s not just any bartender – his boundary pushing approach has landed him multiple global awards and book deals. Now, he’s telling stories through cocktails like the Quantum Silk with Thai basil, lime leaf, bok choy and coriander oil; the bubbly Wizz Fizz with guava leaf and peach kombucha; the Cryocone that combines bacon, maple, bourbon and liquid nitrogen to create a super-boozy Americana-style ice cream; and On Cloud Nine with a very special vapoury N20 trick. “The initial inspiration for this menu came from the space itself… Curious ignites excitement and intrigue the moment you enter it,” said Wiley. Save a seat at Curious at the W Melbourne from 5pm every Tuesday to Saturday, and get sipping on some Curious Matter. You can book here.

Whether you’re a visitor mapping out your first trip to the Emerald City, or a Sydneysider planning a special-occasion staycation, finding the right hotel in Sydney is an important, sometimes overwhelming task. If you’re looking to book a stay that’s extra indulgent – willing to splash the cash on a high-end experience – choosing the right spot is even more important. Luckily for you, we’ve got a team of hotel aficionados who are committed to trying and testing the very best luxury stays in the city, and deciding which ones are worth your hard-earned dosh (it’s a tough job, but somebody’s got to do it). Our expert team includes connoisseur of fine things Time Out Sydney Editor Avril Treasure and Sydney-based travel whizz Melissa Woodley (Time Out Australia’s News and Travel Editor). Each hotel has been checked for its luxe credentials by Time Out Sydney's Travel and Hotels Editor, Winnie Stubbs. From a celeb-approved harbourside palace (Park Hyatt Sydney) to a stunning beachside stay with a rooftop magnesium pool (Manly Pacific), these are the best luxury hotels in Sydney for a super-special stay. 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:Want more options? Here's our full guide to all of the best hotels in Sydney.These are the best glamping sites in NSWAnd these are the best tiny homes and cabins near Sydney for a romantic escape. Time Out makes a small commissio

Come September 8 to 11, the ICC Sydney will transform into a destination for hospo – get schooled at four education stages, including The Culinary Kitchen (in collaboration with Windsor Farms) and The Artisanal Bakehouse (in collaboration with Creative Ingredients), peruse more than 900 (yes, two zeroes) exhibitors, see what’s trending and find out ways to optimise your hospo establishment.   Fine Food Australia is the ultimate one-stop shop for trade advice. If you’re keen to level up your business, a ticket to this four-day event will get you there. Better yet, if you register now here before 8 September, you’ll score yours for free instead of having to pay $45 at the door.  For those looking for a little taste of the talent that will be talking across countless panels, we spoke to Opera Bar’s executive chef, Fernando Sanchez. Here’s what he had to say about some of the key insights to look forward to at this year’s event.   How do you deal with food waste in your job? Food insecurity is a big problem. We’re meant to be one of the leading countries in the world for safety, so to fathom there are 3 million Aussies feeling food insecurity is shocking. The lucky thing about Opera Bar is we’ve got the general manager who is an industry legend and who genuinely cares, plus we have Matt Moran as a partner, so the food has to be up to his standard and his ethos.  I have to use the best of the best and support local. Matt is a restaurateur and a farmer, and we have to support fresh

We might be a little biased, but in our humble opinion, Sydney's got it all. Can you think of many other cities in the world that rival its natural beauty, rich heritage and history that dates back thousands of years, and its creative, culinary and cultural offerings by world-class pros. In fact, there's so much to see, do, sip and ponder here, you could be forgiven for feeling a little overwhelmed. Worry not, dear reader – we're making it simple for you. Our team sifted through every good time the Big Smoke has to offer and put together a Sydney bucket list for the ages. The activities we've chosen will give you a super varied experience of the city – everything from the tourist attractions that are actually worth your time to secret swimming spots that locals know and love.Whether you're a new arrival or a born-and-bred local, this 2025 Time Out Sydney round-up of the city's must-do activities will help you experience Sydney from every angle. After all those great activities you're bound to be thirsty. We suggest you head to one of the best pubs in Sydney right now, or save your cash at one of the best happy hours in the city. Need somewhere to stay? Check in to one of Sydney's best hotels. 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.

Choosing the best hotel to book in Sydney is a delicate art – whether you’re a visitor experiencing the Emerald City for the very first time or a local on a weekend staycation. With so many options to choose between – from beachside boltholes (like the boutique hotel overlooking Watsons Bay) to a trendy converted brewery with a rooftop pool – it can be tricky to decide which hotel is right for you. At Time Out Sydney, we’ve dedicated a good few years to making that task a little easier – picking out the very best hotels in the city based on location, design creds, facilities and that undefinable something that can take a hotel from good to great. Whether you’re looking for a sky-high tower with uninterrupted views of the Opera House, an intimate escape by the beach, or an old-school luxury palace that will have you feeling like a princess, our team of writers (including Editor-in-Chief Alice Ellis and Sydney Editor Avril Treasure) have tried and tested the best hotels in Sydney. To confirm that they should make the cut, this list has been carefully edited by self-confessed hotel addict Winnie Stubbs, Travel and Hotels Editor APAC for Time Out. Read on for our definitive guide to the best hotels 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. RECOMMENDED: These are the best glamping sites in NSW. These are the best camping sites near Sydney. And these are the best spots for a

When Sydney Olympic Park is busy, it’s busy. It’s no fun navigating thick crowds, standstills in the stadium carpark and booked-out restaurants. Never fear, we’ve got the round-up on how to squeeze the most out of your time in this bustling precinct by finding the best eateries, parking tips, accommodation and concert hacks that Accor has to offer. With the Pullman, Novotel, ibis and all of their respective restaurants in such close range, you’ll be spoilt for choice.  A stay at the Accor precinct in Sydney Olympic Park isn't just a place to rest your head for the night of your event: it's a whole experience in itself. We're counting down all the hacks for eating, staying and playing around Accor Stadium, Qudos Bank Arena and Engie Stadium – from starting the concert high early with pre-parties at the area's bars, to beating the gridlock of people travelling to and from your event. 

As far as Queensland’s playground goes, spending your time in Cairns really puts you in the front seat of all the action. The waterside town acts as the landing base not only for some of the world's best snorkelling, but some of the most gorgeous islands Queensland has to offer. That’s not to mention trekking it to the nearby rainforest for cableway rides, river tubing and croc-spotting.  After countless trips to Cairns, we’ve picked out the best hotels that will offer you stunning water views, tropical relaxation and access right to the town’s main strip of shops, and marina-side dining. Take your pick! ☀️ The best thing to do in Cairns right now😍 All the best hotels in Australia⛺️ Our pick of the best caravan parks  Time Out makes a small commission from the affiliate links included in this article. These links have no influence on our editorial content, but they do help us to bring you more recommendations every week. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

Whether she’s singing about how the sun will come out tomorrow or escaping the clutches of the cruel Miss Hannigan’s orphanage, it’s impossible not to love Annie. The vibrant little girl and her furry friend are now in Melbourne for Annie the Musical and tickets are selling fast.  Step out of the Melbourne chill and into the warmth of legendary Broadway musical Annie playing at the Princess Theatre. The strictly limited run follows the story of a very cute curly-haired orphan adopted by the rich Oliver ‘Daddy’ Warbucks. Annie goes to live in his New York City mansion over Christmas, and while he should be the one changing her life, she ends up having quite the resounding impact on the billionaire.  Set in 1930s New York during the Great Depression, Annie first took Broadway by storm in 1977 — winning seven Tony Awards, spawning countless revivals, and becoming one of the most famed musicals of all time.  Delight in classic tunes backed by a 17-piece live orchestra like ‘It’s the Hard-Knock Life’ and ‘Tomorrow’ on a night out that’s sure to give you the warm and fuzzies. It’s a theatrical classic that’s got just the right mix of heart, grit, and feel-good nostalgia — plus a scene-stealing dog called Sandy. Musical theatre legend Anthony Warlow stars as Oliver Warbucks, Debora Krizak is Miss Hanigan, Greg Page (yes, the original yellow Wiggle) as President Franklin D. Roosevelt and the role of Annie is shared by Dakota Chanel, Isabella Hayden and Lilleth McIntosh. Annie the Mus

Sydney is certainly not lacking in day spas, but when you want your indulgence in self-rejuvenation to have a bit more of a destination element to it, you can’t go past the Blue Mountains’ best. The area has some great spas to cater to all your relaxing desires – from stress-busting massages and skin-smoothing facials to treatments you didn’t even know you needed, like a zesty ginger-infused ‘cocooning’. Make a day trip of it or sneak off for a mud-wrap during your next getaway.Read on to find the best day spas and bathhouses in the Blue Mountains – each given the tick of approval by Time Out's resident wellness enthusiast Winnie Stubbs.Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, travel inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED: These are the best eateries in the Blue Mountains.You'll find the best bushwalks in the Blue Mountains here. And these are the best places to rest your head.

When it comes to cuppas, Milklab lays claim to plant-based milk – so good that it’s trusted by baristas across Australia. To put it to the test, we talked to Woody Cho, head barista at legendary brunch spot The Grounds, about what he’s pouring this winter and how you can make a quality brew at home. If you’re a latte lover but don’t want to break the bank feeding your addiction out every day, here’s how to bring one of Sydney’s best cuppas to your countertop. What’s your go-to trendy drink to make? At the moment, my favourite drink to make is our tiramisu oat latte, served hot for winter. It brings together the chocolatey, rich body of our signature Beanstalker blend with the tangy sweetness of mascarpone. Combined with Milklab Oat, it finishes with a smooth, velvety texture. It’s our August special at The Grounds of The City on George Street, and it’s been a real hit. How do you make it? Firstly, pull a double shot of your Beanstalker coffee into your cup and add a splash of vanilla syrup, steam a tablespoon of mascarpone together with Milklab Oat until smooth and creamy, before pouring into the espresso. Finally, dust with a good quality cocoa powder and serve with a ladyfinger biscuit for dipping.  What’s the secret to making it just as yummy at home? Start with freshly roasted and freshly ground beans – stale coffee leads straight to flat, lifeless flavour. If you want the full experience, swing by The Grounds of The City this August – our team will whip one up for you… A

The Mormons are having a moment right now. Proof? A certain housewife-related TV series that’s blown up big time. But before the Mormon wives could run, Elder Price and Elder Cunningham carried mainstream Mormon representation (for better or for worse). Express from Salt Lake City (well, Broadway), everyone’s favourite hilarious Mormon musical is now playing in Sydney. When a production has been written by the creators of South Park, and it’s won nine Tony awards, plus an assortment of Grammys, Olivier awards and a Helpmann award, you know you can strap yourself in for a good laugh. The Book of Mormon will follow its record-breaking streak of sold-out shows with a run at Sydney’s Capitol Theatre, where every shocking and outrageous joke is balanced out with equally punchy social commentary. The plot follows an unlikely pairing of Mormon boys, straight-A Elder Price (Sean Johnston, Hairspray) and geeky Elder Cunningham (Nick Cox, Beauty and the Beast), sent on a mission to a place that’s about as far from Salt Lake City as you can get.  It’s not the show's first rodeo in the Harbour City. The last time The Book of Mormon was in town, it was a rave success, and this time, our Time Out reviewer said it was "joyfully unhinged" and jam-packed with "did they really just say that?” humour.  The show was written by Trey Parker, Matt Stone and Robert Lopez, the latter of whom co-wrote songs for Disney’s Frozen and Coco. It was also choreographed by Casey Nicholaw who has worked on the

Why spend a Sunday tackling house chores when you could be out at the pub partaking in one of the all-time great weekend feasting traditions? Let the pros take care of the cooking and make yourself comfortable at one of these ace boozers that celebrate English charm over the colder months. Cater to those hibernation cravings and get stuck in to legs of lamb with mint jelly, hearty slices of roast beef, crisp-skinned chook, nourishing root veggies and greens, fluffy Yorkshire puddings and gravy. Lots and lots of gravy. Whatever your preferred cut, there's a top pub roast out there for you – and hopefully a pint of something nice to go alongside it.  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. Down for more cold-weather fun? Check out these Sydney pubs with toasty fireplaces. Want more? Work your way through Time Out's guide to the best pubs in Sydney here.

It’s South Africa, 1976. Be transported to a time where 24-year-old Della is trying to lay low amidst a brewing revolution. She works at the general store and cares for her brother and dad but history comes knocking on her door, twofold. Student protests against the apartheid regime are swelling and her ex, university student Ezra, is one of the movement's biggest supporters. Melbourne Theatre Company’s Destiny is a transportive production coming to Southbank Theatre in August that will tug on the heartstrings. Can Della protect her family, including her impressionable younger brother, or will the force of revolution, and Ezra, be too strong? The production stars South African-born Kirsty Marillier (who is so talented she also wrote the play), alongside Barry Conrad (In the Heights) and Clare Chihambakwe (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child). It’s directed by the acclaimed Zindzi Okenyo (Is God Is). Catch Destiny at Southbank Theatre from August 18 to September 13. If you’re under 30, you can score preview tickets for just $37 or standard tickets start from $75. Book yours here.

In the 1950s, Patricia Highsmith penned a novel that would become one of the 20th century’s most gripping thrillers: The Talented Mr. Ripley. In 1999, Matt Damon turned the charismatic conman into a box office hit. Netflix got a slice of the pie in 2024 with a dark series Andrew Scott starred in. Now? Sydney welcomes a world premiere of the irresistible Machiavellian tale to the stage at Roslyn Packer Theatre.  This August, Sydney Theatre Company presents a brand new production of The Talented Mr. Ripley with a hot young cast. Will McDonald plays *the* Tom Ripley (a big pivot from his recent role as teenage drug dealer Cash in Netflix’s Heartbreak High), who becomes enamoured with the confident and dripping-in-money Dickie Greenleaf (played by Raj Labade, Never Closer). While Ripley was hired to bring him home from Italy’s glamorous coastline, obsession slowly clouds his judgement surmounting to a suspenseful fate. The must-see theatrical event has been adapted by eminent playwright Joanna Murray-Smith alongside the expertise of award-winning director Sarah Goodes. The pair are a recipe for success after their brilliant work on STC’s Julia and Switzerland, the latter of which has played theatres across the world and has been adapted into an upcoming screenplay starring Helen Mirren.  Tickets are on sale now for Sydney Theatre Company’s The Talented Mr. Ripley at Roslyn Packer Theatre playing from August 19 to September 28. Book here. Presenting Partner: Allens Stage rights by

There’s nothing quite like witnessing a great composer’s work come to life through the expertise of a conductor who has lived and breathed their work for 30 years. Sydney Symphony Orchestra’s Chief Conductor, the immensely talented Simone Young, is considered one of the leading interpreters of Strauss around the globe, and this September, she’s bringing his work to life at the Sydney Opera House with four spectacular performances.  The occasion marks Young’s highly-anticipated return to Sydney and she’s joined by the artistry of internationally-renowned pianist Andrea Lam. Lam shines in ‘Burleske’, a colourful piano concerto from Strauss’ earlier era. On the other end of his career, ‘Metamorphosen’ turns attention to 23 of the orchestra’s string players as a reflective ode to the losses of WWII.  And of course, it isn’t a Strauss concert without a rendition of ‘Thus Spoke Zarathustra’. The piece has firmly marked itself in pop culture, still famous more than a hundred years after it was written thanks to its inclusion on the soundtrack of ‘2001: A Space Odyssey’ and later ‘Toy Story 2’, ‘The Simpsons’ and ‘Barbie’.  Simone Young is considered one of the Sydney Symphony’s ‘Architects of Sound’, designing and shaping the jaw-dropping power and intensity of this extraordinary orchestra. Watch her conduct Richard Strauss from September 3 to 6. Purchase your tickets here.

At the northern tip of Australia, in north-east Arnhem Land, lies Yirrkala  – it’s an internationally renowned arts community whose work has shaped history and challenged convention. The good news? You don’t need a plane ticket or a 4WD to experience its power. From now until October, Yolŋu power: the art of Yirrkala brings the beauty and brilliance of Yirrkala’s art to Sydney.  Featuring nearly 300 works by 98 artists, the exhibition spans bark paintings and wooden sculptures to video art and digital installations. Each piece speaks to the deep cultural, political and social histories from which it emerged – revealing tradition not as static, but as a living force of innovation and resistance. Our hack? Explore the exhibition on a Wednesday night at Art After Hours – not only will it feel like you’re making the most of your week, but you can score two-for-one tickets* from 5pm to 10pm.  Catch Yolŋu power: the art of Yirrkala at the Art Gallery of New South Wales until October 6. Tickets start from $13 for youth (free for children under 12) and $20 for members. Book yours here.  Yolŋu power: the art of Yirrkala is supported proudly by the NSW Government through its tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW. The exhibition is presented in partnership with the Buku-Larrŋgay Mulka Centre. *Terms and Conditions apply, head to artgallery.nsw.gov.au for details.

Most people know a Suntory beverage. Maybe it’s the mega popular Minus 196 cans, the ultimate to-go Boss Coffee, the refined Roku Gin or premium Japanese whiskies. What we guarantee you *don’t* know is just how many popular labels it owns: think everything from Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark to Canadian Club. And now, you can experience more than 125 years of Suntory’s history and innovation all in one place – for the next three months. Say hello to Sydney’s new Suntory Bar. The Japanese spirit company has chosen the city’s only Japanese culture and dining precinct, Prefecture 48 on Sussex Street, as host for the residency. The moody Whisky Thief bar with gorgeous historic artwork and marbletop counters is the place to be when you clock off. Choose between timeless highballs, signature serves, special cocktails, RTDs, The Premium Malt beer and whisky flights crafted by the team at Prefecture 48 in collaboration with Suntory.  The must-try tipple of the affair is the Highball. While it’ll be dished up with a range of Suntory whiskies (it’s what Suntory’s known for in Japan), we say try the spotlight cocktail, the Hakushu Highball, first. Not only is it a refreshing mix of Hakushu Distiller’s Reserve, soda and mint, but it’s been paired with an exclusive snack from the genius Michelin Star chef Tetsuya Wakuda (you know, from *the* Tetsuya’s). Now’s the chance to sample Wakuda’s cuisine since his eminent Sydney restaurant closed last year – that’s a golden opportunity if we ever did

Performing a ballad from your favourite musical in the kitchen while you cook dinner is up there as one of the most passionate ways to perform, but nothing really hits quite like leaving it to the professionals (no offence). Which is why you won’t want to miss the theatrical magic of An Evening on Broadway when it hits Melbourne for four exclusive shows. This September, the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (MSO) will take to the stage at Hamer Hall for a marvellous musical journey through some of Broadway’s biggest hits. Look forward to cult favourite songs from Les Misérables, The Phantom of the Opera, West Side Story, Cats and more.  The orchestra will be led by conductor Jessica Gethin, and joined by Josh Piterman and Amy Manford. The two well-known vocalists are highly awarded for their performances in The Phantom of the Opera on the West End. Tickets are selling fast for the four An Evening on Broadway performances from September 24 to 26. Prices start from $70 and you can get yours here.

This August, Greater Sydney Parklands is bringing science to life with two free family-friendly events, turning Western Sydney Parklands and Centennial Park into bustling educational playgrounds ripe for mini biologists, palaeontologists, physicists and geologists. Science in the Scrub and Science in the Swamp are back across Sydney and levelled up to the power of a gazillion for National Science Week 2025. Festivities kick off on Sunday, August 10 at Western Sydney Parklands, where you can take control of a Lego robot, see a vintage fire engine, fly towards the Powerful Owl Project activity station, and enjoy honey tastings and beekeeping tales from The Honey Barn. You can even step foot into the new Aboriginal Science Village where natural dyeing, seaweed harvesting, medicinal plants and bush cordial tastings offer a hands-on journey through culture and science. Carry the excitement over to Centennial Park for Science in the Swamp on Sunday, August 17. For the first time, UNSW is hosting the mega SciFest Village. Little ones can chat to more than 30 scientists and explore 10 hands-on science exhibits with everything from DNA bracelet making to drones playing soccer. UNSW has also developed an app for the event, complete with a digital map, prizes to be won and experiments so you can carry on the fun at home.  We haven’t even covered the tip of the iceberg with what’s on. Check out the full programs at Science in the Swamp and Science in the Scrub for National Science Week h

Deciding to take a snowy getaway is relaxing, until it isn’t. You must consider where to eat, the easiest way to get to the slopes and where the closest warm bevvy is. Enter: the Alpine Inn. It’s a one-stop shop for adventure and fun, just a stone’s throw away from Jindabyne – so you can tear it up on the slopes by day and defrost with a drink in hand at the onsite bar by night.  The cosy 36-room resort, reminiscent of an American cabin-style retreat, was recently renovated – think rolling lawns with plenty of fairy lights illuminating the grounds, four crackling fireplaces and lots of beautiful timber. It’s perfect for an idyllic escape from the city or for a rustic function or event.  The Alpine Inn sits in a quaint snowy valley town called Khancoban, located 65km from Thredbo. It’s technically in New South Wales, but is super close to the Victorian border, so you’ll soak in incredible Snowy Valley views. Rooms start at just $175 a night, ranging from premium rooms that sleep two, to deluxe rooms that sleep up to four guests. The crème de la crème is the spacious honeymoon suite with a double walk-in shower, comfy lounge chairs and a record player.  On the grounds, you’ll find the Big Foot Café and Bakery dishing up brekkie, pre-packed lunches and Allpress barista coffee, plus an all-day bottle shop for when you’re planning a homey night in. The main bistro and dining area is ‘70s-inspired, and houses two fireplaces for a heartwarming pub feed, plus a sports bar complete wi

You’ve been to wine tastings, cheese tastings, perhaps olive oil tastings, but now it’s time to tease the palate with something a little sweeter. The Italian gelato gods behind Venchi 1878 are hosting dark chocolate tasting evenings this winter – but strap in for a whole lot more than just good choccy.  The one-hour experience at Venchi’s flagship Australian store in The Galeries walks guests through nine different dark chocolates, unpacking layers you’ve probably never imagined before, while chowing down on your favourite treat. Each bite will be paired with little gourmet delights like dried fruits and nuts.  The fun doesn’t stop there. Enjoy a glass of prosecco, and when you’re finishing up, look forward to a scoop of Venchi’s wildly well-known gelato. The cherry on top is a bag full of goodies that you’ll get to take home with you.  All of these premium goods would usually set you back $90, but the tasting session will only cost you $30. Spaces are super limited for these evening sessions – on July 29 and 30, and August 5 and 6. Secure a spot here. If you’ve got nut allergies, a dairy intolerance or other food sensitivities, you might be best sitting this one out. All ticket sales are final and cannot be refunded or transferred to another event date.

Sometimes, you come across a perfect storm: where location, timing and talented people come together to form something spectacular. In Newcastle’s case, combine an accomplished festival director (Tory Loudon, responsible for the wildly successful Vivid Ideas), a handful of fresh coastal locations, some hot international acts and a series of street parties, time them for the first week of the sunny spring school holidays, and voila. Hop aboard the New Annual train for a trip through 10 days of colourful inspiration this September.  The first night of the festival (Friday, September 26) tells you all you need to know about what’s to come. Watch Laman Street come alive at First Night Art Party with roving performers, revel in explosive art projections and feel the high energy of live music sets by Haiku Hands, Kira Puru and Devaura. The artsy shindigs continue on with the quirky Dancefloor Conversion Therapy performance and afterparty at Bernie’s Bar (September 27-28) and the high-voltage arts party Surge at Newcastle Museum (October 3). There’s live theatre at Newcastle Ocean Baths, a bonkers one-woman show that was the talk of the Edinburgh theatre scene and some of Australia’s best theatre shows at Newcastle Museum. Families can cash in on their culture fix at Global Gathering on Beaumont St hosted by author Benjamin Law and comedian Jenny Wong. Feel the rhythm with a female drumming collective, chow down at eat street and get fresh inspo at cooking demos.  We’re cheering tha

If you’re a Spritz-sipping city slicker or live music lover (you’re reading Time Out – you’re probably both), we think QT Melbourne is set to rise to the top of your winter night out hit list. The beautiful CBD hotel is teaming up with the music moguls at Nova for a concert series kicking off in July that brings the heat.  From July 5, Rooftop at QT, the hotel’s – you guessed it – rooftop bar, is getting a little makeover. Think a pop-up front and centre stage backlit by Melbourne’s city lights and the nighttime stars. Sounds pretty stellar to us. And hitting it will be some exclusive performers that you won't want to miss.  You can expect intimate sets by the hottest up-and-coming artists from around Australia curated by Nova and its exclusive network. There's four nights for four stellar performers: The Voice winner Lachie Gill, indie pop singer-songwriter Jem Cassar-Daley, the beautifully chill Chris Lanzon, and beachy guitarist Sam McGovern. The best part is that entry is free (18+, no booking necessary), so come and uncover some talent before the rest of the world does. The live music kicks off at 6pm and goes all the way to midnight. We recommend arriving earlier though – the doors to Rooftop at QT open at midday – so you can kick back and get the party started with a fun tipple. The series is complemented by a groovy partnership with Italian bitter liqueur Campari and Espolòn Tequila (made from 100 per cent blue weber agave from Mexico) so you can bet the drinks are ju

Take every assumption about museums being dust-covered snoozefests and throw them out the window. The adults-only Museum of Desire turns things on their head: it’s out there, unorthodox and a little bit naughty.  Burlesque and Bites is the headlining event of the Museum of Desire’s winter program. Be wowed by the mesmerising Evana De Lune as she’s joined by burlesque guest Valeria Cuenu and another surprise dancer while you feast on indulgent sweet and savoury bites. The waitlist opens on Tuesday, July 8 at 6pm so get on it while you can – the autumn event, which saw podcaster and television host Abbie Chatfield in conversation with Dr Esmé Louise James, sold like hotcakes. If you do score a ticket, you’ll be granted access to the museum for an hour and a half to explore its promiscuous holdings – like the newly added Cabinets of Curiosities, which is filled with retro sexual health devices and vintage gay erotica catalogues. You can also prank your Instagram followers in recently installed The Little Vegas Love Chapel and pretend you eloped. The event also features early access to two exciting new exclusive exhibits opening in August. Feast your eyes on the sparkly burlesque costumes on loan by generous Melbourne performers, and ponder local photographer Marcus Keily’s works. On the night of the performance, there will also be meet and greets with Keily and the dancers.  Bites and Burlesque is coming to the Museum of Desire in Collingwood on Tuesday, July 30 at 6pm. Join the

It’s global knowledge by now that Bondi Beach is packed 24/7, 365 days a year. While many will say it’s overrated, there’s no denying the stretch of azul blue water is a sight to behold. Skip the crowds (and Bondi Rescue cameras) with a seat perched high up on Campbell Parade at Ikaria.  Walking into the gorgeously decked-out space feels like you’ve stepped onto the shores of the real Ikaria island itself, and given how spenny flights are over to Greece (seriously, how are so many of our Instagram followers over there right now?), we reckon it’s the next best thing. It opened in 2021 when co-owner Joaquin Saez (ex-cho cho san) hoped to bring a bit of Greece to Bondi given Aussies couldn’t fly over post-pandemic. If the earthy terracotta cushions, clay pots tucked in the wall’s nooks, archways and rattan furniture don’t scream Mediterranean enough, the menu will. It’s packed with light, fresh dishes designed to share with your friends and fam.  Photograph: Caitlyn Todoroski for Time Out Sydney There’s plenty of seafood to go around, like salty-sweet kingfish crudo, fried calamari with a generous scoop of tzatziki for dipping, vinegary octopus salad, grilled king prawns and a market fish with tomatoes and peppers. Of course, it’s not a Greek offering without souvlakia. At Ikaria, you can opt for mustard-lemon chicken or harissa mushroom.  While the joint is a great spot for a refreshing lunch after completing the Coogee to Bondi walk (bonus points for soaking up that bluer-th

There’s a little pocket on Potts Point’s Macleay Street that’s home to a powerhouse of ritzy joints that are oh-so-cool without even having to try. Cult-favourites include The Apollo, Franca, Cho Cho San and Yellow, but the lesser-known joint you should add to your hit list stat is Diana.  Book in a dinnertime reservation because this dimly lit diner is magic when the sun goes down (and it means you can stick around for some sing-along action later). The long narrow space is lined with abstract Asian artwork, colourful cushions brighten the booths and fuchsia orchids perk up in ceramic vases at each table – it’s bold, fun and we dig it. Photograph: Caitlyn Todoroski for Time Out Sydney The menu spans classic Korean dishes and pan-Asian eats. Some are well-known – kimchi fried rice, Korean fried chicken, springy japchae noodles and plump bossam pork belly bites, for example. Others are a little less familiar, but equally delicious – like hwae moochim, a fresh, sashimi-style vegetable salad dressed with sesame oil and gochujang, and Korean street donuts with butterscotch.  Is it your first visit to Diana? We recommend letting Korean-born chef Sammy Jeon (Mr Lim, Avido Ristorante Italiano) feed you. The $75 set menu gets you going with seven of their most popular dishes (some served stacked on bamboo steamers or made tableside – *fancy*), and if you’re feeling swanky, you can add on a mud crab course.  Photograph: Caitlyn Todoroski for Time Out Sydney While you’re fuelling u

Whether you mean to or not, you'll find history on every corner you turn in Italy. Beautiful churches, half-dug ruins and centuries-old restaurants. Divino Osteria is taking a page out of Italy’s history book, bringing both quality Mediterranean flavours and an exciting past to the streets of Elizabeth Bay. Located in the old Sebel Townhouse Hotel (the former home of Bar Grazie), Divino Osteria’s walls have once seen the likes of big stars like Elton John and David Bowie. Now they see leopard-spotted woodfire pizza crusts and heaping bowls of pasta dreamt up by owner, Paddington-local Anthony Alafaci. Photograph: Caitlyn Todoroski for Time Out His Southern Italian heritage has inspired the classic Italian menu: fresh antipasti like octopus carpaccio and apple scallops; pasta faves like slow-cooked ragu rigatoni; big, fluffy and crunchy pizzas; and hearty mains like a magical-looking herb-crusted lamb cutlet. They’re all cooked up by head chef Andrea Di Stefano and his team. Stefano is a Catania native, and has also worked in in European Michelin-starred kitchens, so strap in for a great Italian feast. Pair your meal with a drop from the European wine list and contemporary Italian cocktails that feature a whole lot of Limoncello and Aperol. In true Italian fashion, you can enjoy a long weekend lunch that includes a filling pizza to share and two Spritzes with your favourite plus-one – all for $60. Kicking things off before a night out instead? From 4pm to 6pm every Thursday

The lights at The Velvet Glove are real low – all except for those illuminating artworks. Panels of Vincent van Gogh, Leonardo da Vinci and Claude Monet’s works have been carefully curated and artfully backlit for the watering hole of your artsy dreams. At this new Darlinghurst bar and restaurant, you can sip on cocktails and enjoy snacks on an Italian marble table, sit yourself down at the bar on a handcrafted Greek bar stool, or relax on the open-air terrace. Photograph: David Li The Velvet Glove is where European luxury meets Kings Cross glamour – and doors are open to all. At the wheel is hospitality professional Haley Gooley, who has worked across ski chalets and dining spaces in Perisher. She wanted to make an opulent space that signals a warm welcome to anyone and everyone off the streets of the eclectic precinct. And at The Velvet Glove, there are no set seating times – and tipping is not expected. Photograph: David Li Don’t expect anything less than luxe from the menu: crisp-skinned duck à l’orange; Black Angus eye-fillet with blistered vine-ripened cherry tomatoes; and line-caught New Zealand snapper are all on offer. If you’re just popping in for a tipple, the bar menu offers some equally glam nibbles, like tuna sashimi with oxheart tomato and finger lime pearls. Photograph: David Li Drops on the drinks list hail from France, Italy and Austria, plus some local Australian labels. If the décor has you feeling like a baller, splash out on a cocktail topped with

Ruma is warm. It’s in the ochre-hued walls, the massive abstract painting of family enjoying food together and the hearty breakfast plates. The Double Bay joint dishes up brunch four days a week, plus dinner from Thursday to Sunday. Plush booths and scenic alfresco seating await. Ruma, which opened at the end of 2024, is helmed by chef Faheem Noor, the brains behind nearby Bartiga. A love letter to his Malaysian heritage, his menu features brunch classics like pancakes, big breakfast plates and avo toast, all with Asian-inspired twists like the addition of ‘kimchimimchurri’ (a mix of kimchi and chimichurri) and crisp chilli oil. The star of the show is the Korean-style fried chicken bite dish. Order them as they come with a dollop of Kewpie mayo on each piece, or opt for a bougie caviar add-on.  Photograph: Caitlyn Todoroski for Time Out Sydney If you’re looking for a long-lunch experience, check out the bottomless menu. Fill up on a big breakfast platter with all the fix-ins like sourdough toast, scrambled eggs, grilled peppers, plus a sweet plate with whatever’s fresh in the pastry cabinet and fruit. The novelty is the bottomless matcha that you can get iced, hot, cloud-like or with strawberry.  Photograph: Supplied | Pat Stevenson Come dinnertime, the menu looks a little more like kingfish crudo with ponzu, steak frites with sarawak pepper jus, and coconut and turmeric barramundi curry. It’s all about fusing subtle Asian flavours with modern Australian dining. Breakfas

Imagine a pub from 1980s Australia – and then imagine it never got a refurb. Sounds a little outdated, but at Baptist Street Rec. Club – Redfern’s new bar found at Wunderlich Lane, home to Olympus, Lottie and The Eve, among others – it’s nostalgic, and also a little bit edgy. Retro posters and pop art adorn the walls, and drinks are served in glasses that look like they’re straight outta your nan’s good glassware collection (you know the ones). Speaking of tipples, booze aficionados Dan Cramsie (ex Clam Bar, Pepito’s and Double Deuce Lounge) and House Made Hospitality (Island Radio, Apollonia, Bar Mammoni) beverage director Jason Williams have teamed up to create a refreshing bar menu. Fun takes on nostalgic cocktails are the norm here at the latest venue from House Made Hospitality (the team behind Sydney favourites Grana, Apollonia and more). Think a Breakfast Martini with spiced pineapple marmalade, and a Strawberry Daiquiri flavoured with strawberry cordial. Photograph: Steven Woodburn Monthly specials stay on rotation, with the opening stars including the Bloody Mary’s savoury and down-to-earth cousin: a Beetroot Negroni. The wine list spotlights small-batch producers, and the brews are mostly local, including the house-made Reccy Lager. When you get the munchies, Thai-inspired eatery Bangkok Dreaming offers salty specialities galore. Its share platters feature all the Aussie-fied favourite nibblies like spring rolls, money bags and fish cakes. All of which are a nod t

Calling all chip-on-a-stick fans and aspiring farmers! Sydney’s favourite agricultural festival, carnival ride mecca and baby animal pat-fest is back for 2025. When is the Easter Show Sydney? This year's Easter Show will kick off on Friday, April 11, and run for 12 full days until Tuesday, April 22. How much are Easter Show Sydney tickets?  The early bird gets the worm when it comes to tickets – if you purchase your passes before the show kicks off on Friday, April 11, you can hook cheaper tickets, and if you purchase online in advance of your arrival, you’ll also be doing yourself a favour.  Early-bird pre-show tickets (Before April 11): $45 per adult $27 per child (4-15 years old + 16-18 year olds with a student ID card) $33.50 for concession  $118 for a family pass (two adults, two children).    Online purchase once the show has started (April 11 onwards): $48.00 per Adult $29.50 per child $36.00 for concession Children under 3 are allowed in for free. Note that these tickets just include entry for the show – rides, showbags and food are all at various additional costs.  Where is the Easter Show Sydney?  The Sydney Royal Easter Show takes place at the same beloved location each year: Sydney Showground at Sydney Olympic Park is the prime possie for the show’s elaborate agricultural displays and competitions, plus a whole heap of rides.  How to get to the Easter Show Sydney? Sydney Showground is located right next to the Olympic Park Train Station. Limited stops and express

Hughes Street in Potts Point is anticipating its annual shutdown on December 25 to make way for the Wayside Chapel Christmas Day Lunch and Street Party for homeless members of the community. Thanks to over $1,400,000 in donations from the public, the Wayside Chapel will provide over 1,000 Christmas lunches “with all the trimmings” to people who’d otherwise have nowhere else to spend the public holiday. While they've met their fundraising target for 2024, demand for the service grows each and every year, so you can still donate to support the cost of keeping their kitchens, programs and support services open across the festive season. Not only is their aid in the Christmas spirit — they provides daily support for thousands of homeless people living in Sydney. Last year, they provided over 86,000 meals to vulnerable community members who walked through the doors at the Kings Cross shelter in need of nourishment. The Christmas community event that's been running for over 40 years encourages anyone who is living on the street, lost or lonely, on Christmas Day to join the free party. There’ll be a Christmas breakfast at 9am, a service at 10am and lunch at 11.30am followed by a street party full of DJ's, live music, dancing and activities until 5.30pm. More than 100 volunteers help out on the day, serving up 100kg of prawns, 50 hams and 500 Christmas puddings.   Guests can look forward to a visit from Santa Claus, alongside Christmas songs, kids’ activities, (fake) tattoo stati

Sydney is a very doggo-friendly city. There are countless parks, beaches and pubs that welcome your fur babies with open arms. That’s not to mention the Santa Paws event, dedicated entirely to canine Christmas cheer. As it turns out, Sydneysiders take the term “fur babies” quite literally. We're facing a (human) baby recession (with birth rates lower than they've been in 18 years) – this, coupled with an increase in companion animal registrations leads us to a city where pups outnumber kids aged under 15 in 16 out of 34 Sydney councils.  The Sydney Morning Herald uncovered that in the City of Sydney, there are more than two dogs for every child. Woollahra and the Inner West come in a pretty close second, with around 1.7 dogs for every child. Mosman and the Northern Beaches sit at around 1.25 dogs per child, and even the Sutherland Shire is up there, with the same figure.  From 2019 to 2023, pet numbers grew by over 20 per cent in a third of Greater Sydney’s councils. While we may have calmed down a little post-pandemic, it seems dog children aren't going anywhere. People love their pets.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, travel inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED:  There’s $638 million unclaimed by NSW residents. Here’s how to cash in. Rental hacks: how to get ahead in Sydney’s competitive property market. Sydney has ranked among the top 10 best cities in the world for 2025.

The Ramadan Nights food market has become a Western Sydney institution during the holy month of Ramadan. More than one million Sydneysiders flock to Lakemba’s eat street – Haldon Street – after dark to enjoy an abundant array of halal dishes from a range of different Muslim cultures to break fast. While the month-long event has its way of bringing the Muslim community together, and sharing the Islam religion with the rest of Sydney, Canterbury-Bankstown Council and Muslim leaders have some concerns with how big the event has grown.  Their concerns boil down to: the sheer size of the event causing congestion, the event commercialising a holy tradition, and the costliness of the event (it cost the council $3 million dollars this year).  So, there was a unanimous vote by councillors to implement four changes to the markets from 2025 onwards. These changes are:  Moving stalls from the footpaths to the road; This means that instead of stallholders paying local businesses $6,000 total to rent out the space at the front of the restaurant for the whole month, they will pay $600 per night to the council; Renaming the event from ‘Ramadan Nights, Lakemba’ to ‘Lakemba Nights’ to separate the increasingly commercial event from the Islamic tradition of Ramadan; Reducing the number of days the stall is run from seven nights a week to four (Thursday to Sunday). This equals less nights for council staff and contractors to work and be paid, helping reduce costs.  At the moment, the changes a

Aside from Music of the Spheres being an arena spectacular of a show to witness live, it’s also produced some very epic stage design. The bright lights, big bouncing spheres, spectrum of colours and galactic themes are all features of Coldplay’s merch drop for the tour, and we can’t get our hands on the stuff fast enough. Here’s your guide on how to buy it.  When are the Coldplay Sydney shows? The four sold-out shows at Accor Stadium started on Wednesday night (November 6), then continue through Thursday, November 7, Saturday, November 9 and Sunday, November 10.  Where to buy official Coldplay merch in Sydney? Accor Stadium at Sydney Olympic Park held a merch pre-sale day in Sydney (on Tuesday, November 5), but that’s done and dusted now. At the moment you can purchase Coldplay merch from their official website. That being said, of the few items that aren’t sold out, or on pre-order, there are pretty limited sizes available. Never fear because you can buy from stalls at the stadium. Those stalls included stock that is sold out online, and some items that can’t even be purchased from the website.  What Coldplay merch can you buy in Sydney?  T-shirts, drink bottles, posters, caps, bucket hats, programmes, hoodies, CDs, keychains, drawstring bags and more. There goes a week’s pay. Wondering how to get to the Coldplay Sydney concerts? Here's all the public transport info you need. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, things to do and tr

Well, Sydney, a Hymn for the Weekend is finally this week. Coldplay took to the stage on Wednesday, November 6 and Thursday, November 7, and they're back again on Saturday and Sunday nights. The tour is one of the most highly anticipated music events of the year. Actually, event, period. With more than 300,000 fans expected at the four sell-out shows, the experience is up there with T-Swift’s Eras Tour earlier this year – and Sydney Trains is accommodating for this in the same theatrical way. Leave the car at home and start the party early with these public transport options... How to get to the Coldplay Sydney concert at Accor Stadium  Accor Stadium is situated very conveniently near Olympic Park Station. It’s less than a ten-minute walk away and has regular buses and trains passing through. On the nights of the Coldplay Tour, Transport NSW is running 568 extra trains and 650 extra buses. Not only are there all these extra options, but they’ll be decked out in the spirit of the Music of the Spheres tour. The trains will be playing Coldplay hits. And the L1 light rail will also be running for a little later than usual, until 1am, to make getting home easier for people on that line.  Which trains go to the Coldplay Sydney shows?  To get to the concerts, express trains from Central to Olympic Park will run every three to four minutes. You’ll know exactly which trains to catch, because ‘Coldplay Music of the Spheres’ will be displayed on the boards marking your destination. On t