Caitlyn Todoroski

An Italian holiday is always a good idea, period. And if those words alone aren’t enough to convince you, how does wandering the streets of Florence and Siena, riding horseback through Chianti vineyards, and tasting Vino Nobile in Montepulciano sound? Already planning your outfits? Thought so.  Enter The Living Italy Tour. Running from Wednesday, September 23 to Sunday, October 4, 2026, this 12-day immersive journey through Italy’s most soulful regions feels like a fever dream in the best possible way, and frankly, we’re already sold. The experience is curated and led by Luke Wright, manager of Sydney’s iconic Italian institution Buon Ricordo, in collaboration with Gullivers & Arpeggio Tours. It’s designed around the philosophy of slow travel, where days are unhurried, meals are long, and every region is experienced through its people, rather than an itinerary. It begins in Piemonte’s Barolo and Langhe, with foraging walks alongside local experts, hands-on cooking, and biodynamic wine tastings in centuries-old cellars and barrel rooms. Guests hunt truffles in the Roero woods with local families and their dogs, before learning to craft pasta and ricotta using peak seasonal produce. From there, you’ll ride horses and enjoy curated tastings in Chianti, Florence and Siena, before finishing in Saturnia, where natural thermal springs offer a much-needed post-wine, post-feast reset. Tickets start from $15,795. For more information and bookings, visit the Gullivers website. 

If you haven’t yet experienced the deliciousness of South Korean cuisine, you’re seriously missing out. And while Australia offers an impressive range of Korean cuisine, nothing quite compares to experiencing it at the source, guided by a chef who knows it inside out.  Running from Friday, October 9 to Sunday, October 18, 2026, the Chung Lee Culinary Tour sees award-winning Korean-born chef Chung Jae Lee return to his homeland to guide travellers through his favourite regions. Think green tea fields in Boseong to bustling seafood markets in Busan and misty mountain sanctuaries, plus a well-earned relaxation sesh in a traditional Korean jjimjilbang spa. In Sokcho and Gwangju, hands-on cooking classes with Chef Chung unpack the foundations of Korean cuisine, from fermentation to tea ceremonies, leaving you with serious skills (and bragging rights for your next dinner party). But it’s not all about the food. The itinerary also takes you to Seoul’s grand palaces, the DMZ, Seoraksan National Park and Busan’s vibrant coastal culture, alongside walks through UNESCO-listed royal grounds. More than a tour, Chef Chung’s warmth and humour make it feel more like you’re travelling with a group of mates. The luxury accommodation throughout simply sweetens the deal. Tickets start from $9,865. For more information and bookings, visit the Gullivers website.  

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

Melbourne and Sydney might hog the spotlight when it comes to Australia’s best baristas, but Canberra quietly brews up some of the finest cups in the country. Ona dominates the capital's coffee scene – that's right, their beans are proudly roasted right here in Canberra – while local favourites like Redbrick, Two Before Ten and Barrio serve up their own top-tier takes on liquid gold. Whether it’s your cuppa on the morning commute, a long brunch or a late-night craving, Time Out’s local writers along with our Travel & News Editor, Melissa Woodley (who has spent a good hunk of time exploring the bean scene, mind you), have rounded up all the best coffee shops in Canberra. Get sipping! For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. ☕️ The best cafés in Canberra🥐 Where to find Canberra's best bakeries🍹 Canberra's best bars

As it turns out, ‘barbecue’ means two very separate things to Aussies and Texans… Down Under, the ‘barbie’ is synonymous with summer, backyard gathos, snag sangas and medium-rare lamb chops. In the Lone Star State, barbecue is all about the beef – low and slow, massive cuts and juicy melt-in-your mouth business that’s taken hours, and sometimes days to achieve.  Think of a visit to Texas as the ultimate smoke trail. No two Texas barbecue outlets are the same and there’s a whole new world of sides and sauces to balance the smokiness of your slow-cooked meat (hello, sweet Texas onions, creamy potato salad and pinto beans). Just the thought of it has us salivating, so until it’s time to board that plane over there, we’ve rounded up six at-home barbecue hacks from Texas’ own Kareem El-Ghayesh, the owner of Michelin-recognised KG BBQ, and Lennox Hastie, owner of Sydney’s Firedoor and Gildas. Quality of ingredients  “With any cooking over fire and barbecue, you only get out what you put in,” says Hastie. Low and slow is the name of the game when it comes to good Texas barbecue, so you need the right-sized cut of meat with plenty of marbling that will break down over time to give you really succulent slices. “Cooking with fire – cooking with wood – only enhances the natural characteristics” – so basically, the ingredients you start with directly impact the final dish. “Have a frank conversation with your local butcher about what you want to achieve.” Hastie says to talk to them abou

Canberra’s café scene has levelled up big time in recent years. From north to south, you’ll find plenty of places to grab your morning cup of joe with a side of avo toast, eggs benny or pancakes with all the fixings. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill cafés either. They’re brewing some of the nation’s best coffee while showcasing local producers and suppliers from the ACT region. You could easily kick off the day with a kimchi jaffle from the sleek Southside café, Intra. Or maybe a cinnabon from Scullin's beloved vegan eatery, Sweet Bones, is more your vibe. If you’re after something nourishing, a Japanese salad bowl from wholefoods café, Eighty/Twenty, will also do the trick. And that’s not even scratching the surface of what’s up north. Luckily for you, our Time Out Australia Travel & News Editor, Melissa Woodley, lived in the capital for four years and has handpicked the best cafés in Canberra for this list. Where are you headed first? For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🍽️ The best restaurants in Canberra🥐 Canberra's best bakeries☕️ The best coffee in Canberra

For a strictly limited season, see what happens when a trio of Aussie actors take on an internationally acclaimed comedy. Richard Roxburgh (The Correspondent, Elvis), Damon Herriman (Mr Inbetween, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood) and Toby Schmitz (Boy Swallows Universe, Grief is the Thing with Feathers) star together in the award-winning play ART by Yasmina Reza.  The 90-minute comedy centres on something deceptively simple – one friend buys a (ridiculously) expensive painting, causing opinions to fly, old tensions to resurface, and a long-standing friendship to begin unravelling. Originally a French play by Yasmina Reza and translated by Christopher Hampton, ‘Art the Play’ receives a rollicking Australian production directed by Lee Lewis (Prima Facie, Mother Play) that Time Out reviewer Stephen A Russell calls "a colourful riot that’s not to be missed". Russell says: "Reza’s razor-sharp satire not only swipes at the uncomfortable tug of war between creativity and commerce, but also the inability of too many men to talk cool." "There’s an element of unhinged farce to their increasingly frantic sparring that will have audience members torn between rip-roaring guffaws and toenail-curling anxiety gasps in such a way that will thoroughly discombobulate your fight or flight instinct." As the production has already picked up a number of awards internationally, theatregoers can expect a nuanced exploration of how the smallest things can spiral into something much bigger. Art is now pl

Did you know Australia’s last-standing pub theatre is right here in Sydney? Found below Woolloomooloo's 150-year-old Old Fitzroy Hotel, the Old Fitz Theatre is the place for boundary-pushing shows from some of the city's most talented creatives. If you find a night free, and feel like something different – and supporting indie work! – check out what's on here.  Scroll on for the best musicals, plays and more to see in Sydney this month. RELATED READS: It’s guaranteed laughs galore at the Comedy Store Make Tuesdays more fun with this affordable comedy show in the Inner West

Sydney can be a pretty exxy place to live, but if you keep your bargain hunting eyes open, you’ll find heaps of free and cheap things to do on any day of the year. Some of the best things in life really are free. Here's where you can find them in Sydney. Stay thrifty with one of these 25 fun (and delicious) things to do in Sydney for under $25. Looking for cheap places to eat? Here's our pick of the best cheap eats in Sydney.

Autumn isn’t just a season – it’s the air crisping up, the pyramids of apples and pears signalling a new harvest, the familiar urge to layer up. From peak-season produce to cosy essentials for the cooler months ahead, Queen Victoria Market is delivering the goods this autumn.  There’s a lot on in The Autumn Series at Queen Victoria Market, so stay with us now. Market stall owners are offering specials on the season’s best, a collection of artisan goods are available to shop, there are vibrant night markets and food tours every week and so much more. Here’s what to check out.  What’s in season  It goes without saying that autumn is harvest season and Annabelle’s Juice Bar is squeezing the freshest apples, pears and figs daily. With flu season incoming, ward away illness with a cup of McIver’s Tea & Coffee Merchants Manuka Afternoon, which makes for the perfect pick-me-up with its blend of pine and plum. Cosy season is roasting season, so grab some cuts from Amott Quality Meat or opt for Hagen’s Organic Meats meatballs, which go well in a big batch of spag bol. Keep on the Italian theme with layers of creamy tiramisu available at Tutti Dolce. Follow your nose to American Doughnut Kitchen, where fresh pillows of bread dipped in warm cinnamon sugar are served with seasonal dipping pots. Find the full line-up here.  Foodie events  Queen Vic Market’s got your evening and weekend plans covered. Each Wednesday night, until May 6, the open-air sheds will transform into a bustling haw

Australia is packed with many incredible natural landmarks, gorgeous sightseeing spots and once-in-a-lifetime experiences – but with so much choice, it's hard knowing which Australian icons are actually worth your time. Our Travel and News Editor, Melissa Woodley, has drawn on her adventures across every state and territory to curate this list of the best tourist attractions in Australia. We've skipped the tourist traps (sorry, Bondi Beach and the Big Banana) to bring you the ultimate hit list of sights that live up to the hype. From the world’s largest coral reef to the oldest continually surviving rainforest and the best sunset-watching location on Earth, these are the definitive experiences for your great Australian bucket list. Editor's favourite tourist attractions in Australia: Best urban landmark: Sydney Opera House Best outdoor icon: Great Barrier Reef Best cultural sight: Uluṟu Best art institution: MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) Best hidden gem: Port Arthur Historic Site 😱 The best places to visit in Australia🌊 The best beaches in Australia

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 celeb-approved stay with uninterrupted views of the Opera House, an easy breezy 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 News 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

Sydney’s sparkly wintertime festival may have started as an ace light installation across the city but it’s fast become a chance to showcase world-class food and drink. Think of Dream Feast like the cherry on top of Vivid Sydney’s dining offerings this year – it’s an imaginative collaboration with international chefs, new music compositions, and inspiring art projections within one of the oldest public buildings in the city. Housed inside The Mint (aka a front-row seat for exploring Circular Quay after dinner), you’ve got four chances to secure a spot at the table from Tuesday, June 2 to Friday, June 5, starting at 6pm. Museums of History NSW has teamed up with the New York-based duo behind cult favourite dining collective Arlo Communal.  Head chef Tobi Fox and creative director Cal Fernie actually hail from Sydney and are bringing a multi-course feast paired with curated cocktails to their hometown. The meal is inspired by the Caroline Simpson Library Collection – a rich archive of Australian design and domestic life from the 1700s to now. Using locally sourced produce, including bone marrow toast, oysters and mixed grill, the five-course meal will reflect how we have eaten, gathered and entertained over time. Animated projections of the collection will bring the Mint facade to life while you’re dining, and DJ Munasib sets the mood. She’ll be mixing brand new compositions created by artists JWPATON, Fatshaudi, Jacob Turl and Hinano Fujisaki, who have added their own flair to

Buckle up, Melburnians! Spiegelhaus has just announced a third extension of Blanc de Blanc Encore, taking its run to a record 40 weeks at the pop-up entertainment precinct on the Lonsdale Street Golden Square Car Park’s rooftop. The number is fitting, giving Spiegel Haus' big role in delivering Melbourne Comedy Festival's 40th birthday program. It's quickly become *the* place to be for all things arts and culture in the city, so much so that the Lord Mayor, Nick Reese, and Minister for Creative Industries, Colin Brooks, are huge supporters of the extension.  If you’re ready to pop the Champers, laugh ’til your belly hurts and revel in tricks you didn’t know were humanly possible, strap in for a glittering night at Blanc de Blanc Encore.  The cabaret spectacle is the headline affair at Melbourne’s brand-new Spiegel Haus that only rolled into town for the first time in late 2025. The pop-up entertainment precinct has set up camp on the rooftop of the Golden Square Car Park on Lonsdale Street, dazzling new and returning Melburnians alike. Blanc de Blanc Encore fuses a delectable mix of circus, cabaret, jazz and comedy (with a couple of bottles of bubbles for good measure) for an effervescent night out – leave the kids at home for this one.Watch Blanc de Blanc Encore at the Spiegel Haus, Melbourne until May 24. Book your tickets here.

This is your chance to witness the power of cinema and music collide. Feel the suspense of Dobby’s unforeseen visit to Privet Drive, the exhilaration of a flying car rescue, and the intensity of Harry’s fight with the Basilisk, all amplified by the rousing melodies of a full orchestra.  This June, the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra performs the score of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets alongside the full movie over four very whimsical performances. Watch Harry’s second year at Hogwarts on the big screen at Hamer Hall while John Williams’ legendary score is brought to life with a live orchestra.  See Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets in Concert at Hamer Hall from Wednesday, June 10 to Saturday, June 13 across both matinee and evening performances. Adult tickets start from $86 and you can get yours here.  All characters and elements © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Publishing Rights © JKR. Brought to you by CineConcerts

If you’re looking for a night out where serotonin is dialled up to the max – it’s a seat at The Grand Electric. La Ronde is a cheeky, jaw-dropping performance hitting the intimate stage in Surry Hills this autumn. It has wowed audiences in Adelaide, Newcastle, Darwin, Auckland and Sydney, and now it’s now back in town for a second season.  The high-adrenaline affair made waves as one of the must-see shows of the Adelaide Fringe – clocking up an immense amount of five-star reviews in the process. While some of the other shows by the same creators, like Blanc de Blanc, are a little more risqué, La Ronde is a fun night out for anyone over 15.  Live music sets the stage for some gravity-defying stunts and glitzy disco fever. There’s so much variety in the show that it’s got something for everyone from avid theatre-goers to couples on date night. With a super interactive ringside experience, it also serves as the ultimate group night out where bubbles and gasps flow generously.  Catch La Ronde at The Grand Electric in Surry Hills until May 10. Tickets start from $86 and you can get yours here. 

Parramatta’s pulsating after-dark music series, Undercurrent, is back at Riverside Live at PHIVE from April to June, with three high energy live music nights showcasing bold Western Sydney artists, alongside a special international act. It all kicks off on April 2 with Elsewhere in India – a genre-defying collision of drum and bass, electro‑classical dance, South Asian culture and AI-driven visuals. On May 29, Vv Pete brings the heat with high energy Sudanese-Australian rap fresh off major stages including the Sydney Opera House. The series wraps up on June 12 with country group Simply West, blending their Pacific Islander, African and Portuguese roots into warm soul-filled sounds. Set in the heart of the internationally recognised Purple Flag precinct, Undercurrent is your chance to experience nighttime live music gigs in a safe and accessible city centre. If you didn’t already have an excuse to pop in after dark, let this be it. Undercurrent is delivering a new live music event once a month from April to June. Find out more and book your tickets here.  Supported by the NSW Government through the Office of the 24 Hour Economy Commissioner.

There’s something special about sitting your kids down to watch the same show that you and and your parents did, decades ago. Believe it or not, Play School has been captivating little eyes since 1966 and ACMI is giving you the chance to come and explore the set brought to life, for free.  You can explore the Play School: Come and Play! exhibition at ACMI in Federation Square now until July 12. The perfect outing for two- to five-year-olds, little ones have the chance to check out the Rocket Clock, meet Big Ted, Jemima and Humpty Dumpty, sing songs and learn.  Kids can play presenter, camera operator or director – whatever tickles their fancy. The exhibition also includes Auslan translations throughout, with sensory-friendly, Auslan and audio-described sessions available. Plus, a chance to see what goes on behind the scenes and even hear from hosts like Leah Vandenberg and childhood experts in the Play School Talks series throughout April, June and September. Ready to come inside? Tickets to Play School: Come and Play! are free but make sure you book your spot here. Catch the exhibition at ACMI from 10am to 5pm until July 12.

Just like the Easter school holidays creep up on you, so does the spending on activities to keep the kids entertained. Skip out on the eye-watering ticket prices and pay a visit to the great-value Ingenia Holiday Parks Sydney Family Easter Show this autumn. The family affair returns to the Entertainment Quarter in Moore Park, set to put the little – and not-so-little – ones in the Easter spirit without costing you a pretty penny. This year, the festivities kick off on Thursday, April 2 and will run until Sunday, April 19. The jam-packed program features everything from high-energy motorcycle and bike stunt shows to adorable little daschund meet and greets, carnival-style games and a carousel the whole family can enjoy. There will also be an adrenaline-pumping obstacle course, dodgem cars, a thrilling reptile show where you can get up close with snakes and crocs, and an animal nursery with cuddly ducklings, chicks, lambs, goats and piglets. Of course, there will be showbags galore too. For the first time, the event welcomes the Outback Jack Stockman Show. This action-packed spectacle features impressive horsemanship, skilled working sheepdogs and thrilling whip-cracking demonstrations. The humorous performance is sure to be a crowd-pleaser — and you might even get to join in the fun with audience participation encouraged. Be sure to go for a wander through the Easter Basket Zone and stock up on some treats. This year they’re hosting a huge easter egg hunt and as long as you ho

In 1993, Steven Spielberg brought the prehistoric era back to life in what would be the first movie in a truly cult-favourite installment. Jurassic Park is loved and adored by dino nerds young and old, and now, the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra is bringing the film’s biggest hits to life again in a Triassic-tastic screening of Jurassic Park.  One of the most recognisable film scores in history by composer John Williams will be artfully performed by the orchestra led by conductor Nicholas Buc for three special performances from Thursday, April 23 to Sunday, April 26. You can book your tickets for Jurassic Park In Concert at Hamer Hall on MSO’s website here.  While you can’t physically venture back in time, you can venture around the city, and we’re hearing reports that there've been a handful of dino sightings… Young or old, if you’ve got a reptilian-obsessed individual in the family, here’s where it’s hot in Melbourne for a prehistoric encounter. Take a swing at Albert Park Mini Golf’s Jurassic Par  It’s a slice of bliss to witness dinosaurs roaming free in their natural habitat: the sunny grounds of Albert Park’s family-friendly mini golf course. Long-necked herbivores smile overhead, two raptors flank the final holes and one poor sucker’s disembodied jaws poke up through the centre of a cubbyhouse (a fave, obviously). Embark on Melbourne Museum's Dinosaur Walk  Melbourne Museum’s dinosaur walk is home to the skeletons of 17 ancient creatures – perhaps one of the most impress

Ma chère mademoiselle, this is your chance to see a tale as old as time come to life. The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra will be performing the soundtrack of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast live for three special concerts at Hamer Hall on April 10 and 11. The Academy Award-winning music by Alan Menken has solidified itself as one of Disney’s most classic soundtracks of all time, appealing to all generations. Watch the classic tale play out on screen while conductor Jen Winley and chorus director Warren Trevelyan-Jones lead the orchestra and choir in a goosebump-raising performance.  We say the fun doesn’t have to end with your show. Extend your time in French fantasyland with a day dedicated to Beauty and the Beast. We’ve put ourselves in Belle’s pretty yellow heels and thought about how the bookworm would spend a day in Melbourne.  Book your tickets here for Disney’s Beauty and the Beast in Concert and start planning your provincial day out.  Go for a high tea A pretty sure-fire way to feel regal is to sit down for a dainty high tea. Some of our favourites with an old-world flair in Melbourne include Hopetoun, The Windsor and Mámor Chocolates and High Tea Szalón. Shop ’til you drop at the markets  Belle says there must be more than this provincial life but we actually quite fancy ourselves some fresh farmers’ market produce. Hit up Queen Victoria Market or South Melbourne Market for a vibrant offering of food. Don’t forget to grab five dozen eggs for brekkie so you can be as str

Make your next Sunday session sparkle with a brunch that screams summer. Taking place on the rooftop of the gorgeously decked out Woolly Bay Hotel, Ovata Sundays promises a whole heap of bubbles and banging tunes.  While you’d be hard pressed to find a decent all-inclusive brunch in Sydney for less than $100, let alone less than $80 – Ovata Sundays delivers on value and good vibes. For just $75, you’ll score a dedicated spritz menu (including a citrusy number and a classic Hugo spritz), Ovata sparkling wine (including the newly launched Ovata by Oakridge Sparkling Rosé) and fresh canapés for an hour and a half – all while a DJ is mixing it up on the decks from 3pm to 5pm.  For nibbling on, there will be pork san choy bow, wagyu sandos, citrus-cured salmon bites and jamon croquettes – don’t mind if we do. If you’re feeling a bit more peckish there are other deliciously paired items you can add-on like South Coast rock oysters and tempura Yamba prawns. Plus, if you like what you’re drinking, you can score special deals on glasses and bottles of Ovata by Oakridge wine on the day.  Rather a mid-week bevvy? Arturo’s is putting on spritz specials from 4.30pm to 5.30pm on Wednesdays to Sundays. Get the crew together for Ovata Sundays on Arturo’s Rooftop from February 15 to April 19 (excluding March 29). Seatings are $75pp – bookable on the hour from midday – and you can lock yours in here.

It’s not everyday that you see a full-blown tribute to Scottish culture complete with bagpipes, Highland dance and tartan aplenty – let alone in Australia. This February is your chance to travel to Scotland through traditional song and dance performances without having to leave Australia.  The globally renowned Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is transforming Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium into the promenade of Edinburgh Castle for a limited time. More than 1,000 performers from 13 countries will turn the floor into a maze of patterns and movement, while massed pipes and drums will reverberate through the stadium.  While this massive display usually only takes place once a year in Scotland during The Edinburgh Festival, this is a rare chance to catch it in Australia. It’s the first time since 2019 that this military performance is returning Down Under – and the first time ever to be performed in Brisbane. This year marks a special 75th anniversary for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, and a full-blown production titled ‘The Heroes Who Made Us’ will commemorate the milestone.  The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo presented by RACQ will be performed at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium for limited performances from February 12 and 15. Get in quick before tickets sell out. Purchase yours here.  The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is supported by the Queensland Government, Tourism and Events Queensland and Brisbane City Council through Brisbane Economic Development Agency in partnership wi

Nothing says a classy Marg like one that comes out with all the bells and whistles – hello, little lime garnish and salt rim. This November, salt lord Maldon is giving a masterclass in the latter, with special Margaritas available from three Sydney drink destinations.  Sip on Margaritas with flaky sea salt touches from The Depot in sunny Bondi, The Boathouse right on the waterfront in Rose Bay, and the gorgeous Tulum-inspired Alegre in Darling Harbour. Settle in at one or head all around the city for an adventure. Stay tuned because each venue is offering up their own take on the classic. Time Out took on the tour and if we had to pick a favourite, it was The Boathouse's tropical take on a Marg with fresh ingredients and coconut and mango-infused flavours. Which will yours be? Like what you’re tasting? It’s easy peasy, lemon (well, lime) squeezy to pick up a box of Maldon to level up your own tipples at home.  Pop into The Depot Bondi, The Boathouse Rose Bay and Alegre this summer for some delish Maldon Margaritas to get the party started from lunchtime, all the way through the night. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mayers Fine Food | EST. 1957 (@fmayerimports)

If you’re making a reservation at KODA Cocktails and Grill, it’s in your best interests that you try to snag a seat around the robata grill (though the plush banquettes are pretty ace for groups). Smiley chefs greet you as you take your place, and before you can even say "drinks", little glasses of house sake are handed to you on a paddle. It’s all part of the Japanese charm and hospitality that makes the restaurant a fun place to be, whether you’re visiting for a CBD lunch or cocktails and snacks. You’ll find it just off George Street, tucked behind Zaffi and O Bar and Dining so you know you’re heading for a bustling precinct.  Photograph: Supplied | KODA The robata grill is the star of the show, with dedicated sections on the menu for meat (sticky, fall-off-the-bone pork ribs), steak (9+ tajima wagyu), fish (a whole flounder), crustaceans (scallops served in their shell), and vegetables (charred broccolini).  There’s also an à la carte menu with lots of Tokyo laneway-inspired eats, like honey soy crispy eggplant with garlic; tuna sashimi on finely shredded ponzu pickled cabbage; and lobster ramen noodles.  Photograph: Caitlyn Todoroski for Time Out Sydney Pair with a bottle of sake or two to share, or opt for one of the specialty cocktails: fruity and refreshing highballs. With 90's/00 hits playing over the speaker, KODA is a pretty groovy spot for a feed before a big night out with mates. Catch you there next Friday night.  Find out more here. Address: 20 Curtin Pl, Sy

The AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 kicks off in March, and we’re on the edge of our seats to see if our beloved Tillies are going to qualify and take it all the way to the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup in Brazil. First-release tickets for the quadrennial football tournament went on sale last July, but there are still tickets on sale, with prices starting from $20 for adults to $10 for children. If the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 is anything to go by – the single biggest female sporting event in the world – we expect tickets will be in high demand. Here’s everything you need to know about getting tickets to the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026. When is the AFC Women’s Asian Cup in Australia? The AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026 will run from Sunday, March 1 to Saturday, March 21. Where is the AFC Women’s Asian Cup in Sydney? AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026 games are being held at five stadiums across Australia, with the two Sydney locations being: Stadium Australia, Sydney Olympic Park – one group stage match, two quarter-finals, one semi-final, the grand final Western Sydney Stadium, Parramatta – six group stage matches You can see the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026 match schedule here. When are the CommBank Matildas playing in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026? The CommBank Matildas are playing their final group stage match at Sydney’s Stadium Australia on March 8 (which also happens to be International Women’s Day – bring mum and nan along!). If they m

What do you get when you combine a Michelin-starred chef, a bustling Potts Point laneway, neon Harajuku-inspired lights and great value quality Japanese food? Say hello to the new kid on the block, Iki Dining.  The menu at casual Japanese diner, which opened in mid-2025, is split into three concepts: a raw bar, casual izakaya bites and steaming bowls of chintan-style ramen. Whether you’re sitting al fresco, by the bar, or in the booths of the main dining room, you’ll have access to all three – who said it was hard to please everybody?  On a bustling night, you’ll see the raw bar display front and centre at the bar. A chef meticulously slices segments of salmon, kingfish, tuna and scallop. Choose to get the sashimi served nigiri-style rolled up like your favourite sushi, or you can opt for the sashimi platters that come served in a little boat with a dry-ice spectacle.  Photograph: Caitlyn Todoroski for Time Out Sydney For something a little more substantial for your next course, the izakaya menu features Japanese classics like crisp chicken karaage and crunchy-bottomed pork and chicken gyoza, alongside some modern interpretations by chef Masahiko Yomoda. Most of the small plates ring in at under $20. For larger plates, the Wagyu aburi steak is served on umami butter sauce with a kick of wasabi on the side, plus a wedge of cabbage that’s grilled and caramelised with a yuzu miso sauce. You may recognise chef Yomoda’s face from his appearances on MasterChef Australia or Iron C

If you ever want to feel on top of the world (and, unlike Katy Perry, can’t afford a rocket trip to space), you can ride an elevator to the top floor of the Shangri-La Sydney, home to Blu Bar. With its unbeatable views, this swish cocktail bar is one of Sydney's best sky-high spots – and trust us when we say you need to be there to experience the magic. We’re seated in the corner of the bar with an expansive view of commuters trickling home over the illuminated Sydney Harbour Bridge, and ferries winding their way in and out of Circular Quay. While we’re windowside (and it really is spectacular), all seats in the bar either have a view of Sydney Harbour below, or the striking skyscrapers of Barangaroo. Photograph: Caitlyn Todoroski for Time Out Sydney Cocktails here come in tiers: there are your classics like Cosmopolitans and Espresso Martinis (around $25), signature cocktails of the hotel like the fruity Star Cluster with Amaro Montenegro and orange juice, or The Dreaming Earth with gin, dessert lime and Shangri-La honey (around $28) and then there’s the top-shelf stuff like the Quantum Forum with Macallan 12 Year whiskey, Chambord, peanut butter and jelly ($55).  Cocktails may be more expensive than a wine at your local, but for the experience and those views, we reckon it's worth it. Did you notice how honey is a common ingredient featured in those tipples? That’s because Shangri-La produces it itself – there’s even urban beehives on the hotel’s rooftop. And it’s not th

If Jamberoo Valley Farm was a song, it would be ‘My Favourite Things’ from the Sound of Music. My stay is all about appreciating simplicity: feeding the resident animals with friendly farm manager Rick, the warm loaf of bread wrapped in a tea towel that owner Barbie delivers to the door, soaking in the views of Jamberoo Valley, and being just far away enough from civilisation that said views don’t include a single other residence in sight.  While the little things make this stay special, it’s the bougie things that ramp this accommodation up into a league of its own: the private hot tub on the cottage deck, the heated tiles (and standalone bath) in the bathroom, the accordion doors that connect the living room to the farm, and the meticulously curated rustic coastal decor that could be straight out of a Country Living magazine. Photograph: Caitlyn Todoroski for Time Out Sydney/Hot tub with a view at Jamberoo valley farm   If you want a relaxing getaway without totally going off the grid, Jamberoo Valley Farm is *very* well placed. It’s less than two hour’s drive from Sydney, a five minute drive from Jamberoo’s township (and fabulous football fanatic pub), and 15 minutes away from Kiama’s beaches. Basically, you can have your fresh crusty bread and eat it too.  Be warned that the five minute road out of Jamberoo Village and up the mountain to the cottage is quite narrow (AKA mainly fits one car at a time). We drive nice and slow and pull over where we can for the odd passerb

I’m a local to Wollongong, born and raised, so when it comes to holidays and trips out of town, the South Coast is my bread and butter. Sometimes it’s pretty easy when you’ve grown up in a place to take it for granted. So when I got the chance to get behind the wheel of a smooth driving hybrid car (the new Mazda CX-80), I set out to see my (incredibly gorgeous, beach-spotted) neck of the woods from a tourist’s perspective.  Where is the NSW South Coast? While the South Coast technically stretches all the way down to the NSW border, I’m focusing on the underrated stretch between Helensburgh and Huskisson. This includes Coledale’s jagged coastline, Port Kembla’s grungey industrial scene, the bustling central hub of Wollongong and one of Australia’s quaintest seaside towns, Kiama.  Being only an hour and half’s drive from Sydney, I genuinely think the South Coast is the goldilocks of weekend getaways for all travelers: mum and dad get their much-needed break and the kids have free range in nature’s playground, couples reconnect with each other and Mother Nature, and friend groups become quickly equipped with memorable shenanigans.   Photograph: Caitlyn Todoroski for Time Out SydneyHot tub with a view at Jamberoo valley farm Where to stay on the NSW South CoastFirst thing’s first is where to set up camp. There aren’t many other places in the world where you can have a farm stay with views of green pillowy hills and then drive 15 minutes to the closest beach. That’s the name of

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