GUIDE TO SYDNEY
COMPLIMENTARY
EXPLORE
SCULPTURE BY THE SEA
TASTE
GOOD FOOD MONTH
SEE
THE INVICTUS GAMES
Swim at Sydney’s famous Bondi Beach.
Les Clefs d’Or Australia For bookings, see your hotel concierge
OCTOBER 2018
wheretraveler.com
B Australian made products espoke
to uplift your Body & Soul
BOTANICAL CANDLES BATH & BODY NATURAL FRAGRANCES GIFT PACKS
DUX Collection Shop 23, Playfair Street, The Rocks, Sydney NSW 2000 Open 7 days, 10am-5pm duxcollection.com E: arlene@duxcollection.com T: +61 2 9252 0209
ARMADALE 1003 High Street, Armadale VIC 3143 / +61 3 9822 1777 HAWTHORN 714 Glenferrie Road, Hawthorn VIC 3122 / +61 3 9815 0703 MELBOURNE 1A, 268 Flinders Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000 / +61 3 9663 1441 SOUTH YARRA 125 Toorak Road, South Yarra VIC 3141 / +61 3 9820 2088 SYDNEY QVB Shop 40, L1 QVB George Street, Sydney NSW 2000 / +61 2 9267 6476
October
4 EDITOR’S NOTE 6 ASK THE EXPERT 72 THE FIX
Where Sydney
8 TOP 5 Sculpture by the Sea
10 CALENDAR The top events for October
16 INSIDER Oktoberfest, "Evita", David Goldblatt at MCA and more
20 ONE BLOCK Exploring Chippendale
22 AROUND TOWN The perfect day in Manly
24 #SYDNEY Instagramming Sydney's green gardens
26 GOOD FOOD MONTH Are you ready to Paté?
28 INVICTUS GAMES A triumph of sporting spirit
30 HARBOUR TOWN Discover our iconic waterways
32 NATURE'S OWN FIREWORKS Australian Opals shine bright
35 Shop
52 Food
42 Art
62 Scene
44 Explore 66 Maps 48 Sights
Celebrated chef, restaurateur and food writer Bill Granger, will hold court at Hyde Park Palms during Good Food Month.
COVER: Bondi Beach by Sacha Styles/Unsplash.
Y O U R T R AV E L L I N G C O M P A N I O N S I N C E 19 3 6 ®
October 2018
SYDNEY
Welcome to the October issue of Where Sydney. We hope you are enjoying our new portable format, and your time here in Sydney. There’s plenty to see and do this month as the weather starts heating up. October is Good Food Month, so you are guaranteed a smorgasbord of delicious meals and events (page 26). The Invictus Games are in town too and celebrate the sporting triumphs of competitors from 18 countries around the world (page 28). Also on this month is the iconic Sculpture by the Sea festival (page 8), a free sculpture exhibition along the Bondi to Tamarama coastal walk. Plus there’s “Evita” the musical, “Jersey Boys” and the Pop-up Globe Theatre.
MANAGING DIRECTOR Colin Ritchie PUBLISHER Catherine Ballesty SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER Kelly Kilic EDITORIAL & DESIGN EDITOR Roshan Sukhla PRODUCTION MANAGER Remziye Sen-Moss GRAPHIC DESIGNER John Danskin GRAPHIC DESIGNER Trish Graf ADMINSTRATION ASSISTANT Olivia Storrie INTERN Zac Lewis MVP E XECUTIVE PRESIDENT Donna Kessler CHIEF STRATEGY OFFICER Reab Berry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Dennis Kelly MMN SYDNE Y Suite 16, 1-15 Barr Street, Balmain, NSW 2041. Tel: +61.2.9555.7477 Fax: +61.2.9555.1436 Email: sydney@morrismedia.com.au MMN MELBOURNE MELBOURNE PUBLISHER Catherine Stevens SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER John McGaw Suite 7, 218 Dryburgh Street, North Melbourne, VIC 3051. Tel: +61.3.9329.2201 Fax: +61.3.9329.8161 Email: melbourne@morrismedia.com.au MMN SOUTH E A ST QUEENSL AND ACCOUNT MANAGER Nathaniel Rawlings SALES CONSULTANT Tom McPartland Email: queensland@morrismedia.com.au
Roshan Sukhla Editor, Where Australia @roshan
PRINTING
Bluestar Web, Tel: 61.2.9748.0020 This product has been printed on paper sourced from Sustainable Forests under the PEFC accreditation
Where Sydney is proud to be an associated publication of the Sydney Chapter of Les Clefs d’Or (the International Concierge Association).
#whereaustralia connect with us
#wheresydney #streetart wheretraveler.com/sydney
IN THE WORLD Where is an international network of magazines first published in 1936 and distributed in over 4,000 leading hotels in more than 50 places around the world. Look for us when you visit any of the following cities, or plan ahead for your next trip by visiting us online at wheretraveler.com. UNITED STATES Alaska, Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Charleston, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Indianapolis, Jacksonville/St. Augustine/Amelia Island, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Maui, Miami, Minneapolis/St. Paul, New Orleans, New York, Oahu, Orange County (CA), Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix/Scottsdale, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, St. Louis, Tampa, Tucson, Washington, D.C. ASIA Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore AUSTRALIA Melbourne, Sydney CANADA Calgary, Canadian Rockies, Edmonton, Halifax, Muskoka/ Parry Sound, Ottawa, Toronto, Vancouver, Victoria, Whistler, Winnipeg EUROPE Berlin, Budapest, Istanbul, London, Madrid, Milan, Moscow, Paris, Rome, St. Petersburg
4
WHE RE I OCTO B E R 2 018
Avg Net Distribution per Issue independently under the AMAA's CAB Total Distribution Audit. Audit eriod: 01/04/2017 - 3 /0 /2018
Where Sydney is a member of the Circulation Audit Bureau. Total monthly circulation of over 38,000.
MORRIS COMMUNICATIONS CHAIRMAN William S. Morris III PRESIDENT & CEO William S. Morris IV
Morris Media Network (MMN) is a division of Morris Communications, Co., LLC. 725 Broad Street, Augusta, GA 30901, morrismedianetwork.com. Where magazine and the logo are registered trademarks of Morris Visitor Publications. Where makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part strictly prohibited.
Greg Hillard CONCIERGE, SYDNEY HARBOUR MARRIOTT
LES CLEFS D'OR INTERNATIONAL Past President: COLIN TOOMEY, The Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney General Secretary: JAMES RIDENOUR, InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto AUSTRALIAN EXECUTIVE President: DAVID LUFF, Westin Sydney Secretary: MARK ANDERSON, InterContinental Sydney Treasurer: RHETT CONSTANTINE, Pullman & Mercure Melbourne Albert Park Past President: PETER MCBREARTY, The Langham, Melbourne NSW Members State Director: GREG HILLARD, Sydney Harbour Marriott JASON ABERIN, Hilton Sydney ALLAN ALVAREZ, Sydney Harbour Marriott MARK ANDERSON, InterContinental Sydney VICTOR BARAYA, Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney VINI BIANCALANA, Sydney Harbour Marriott LANCE BIRKETT, Parkroyal Darling Harbour JOSH BLAKE, Four Seasons Hotel Sydney NICK BOCOCK, Sofitel Sydney Wentworth NATHAN BROWN, Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour PETER BROWN, Hyatt Regency Sydney GARY CHAN, Hyatt Regency Sydney EUGENE CHANG, Pier One Sydney Harbour PHIL DE MERINDOL, The Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney JONATHAN FAMBART, Park Hyatt Sydney GARY LEE, Swissôtel Sydney DAVID LUFF, The Westin Sydney JAMES NOBLEZA, Parkroyal Darling Harbour MARK PEYTON, Sofitel Sydney Wentworth DAVID REYNOLDS, Sir Stamford Circular Quay JORGE SOUSA, Four Seasons Hotel Sydney HIDETAKA TANAKA, Hilton Sydney BEN THOMAS, West Hotel Sydney SUNNY TOGIAVALU, Sheraton On The Park COLIN TOOMEY, The Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney MAGDI ZARZOUR, Amora Hotel Jamison
www.lesclefsdoraustralia.org
6
WHE RE I OCTO B E R 2 018
Q: What’s your top tip for a first-time visitor to Sydney?
A: My tip for a first-time visitor to Sydney would be to visit some of our beautiful beaches and I think the best way to do this is the famous Bondi to Coogee beach coastal walk. The views on this walk are spectacular and you if are lucky enough to be here in spring you will get to see the Sculpture by the Sea exhibition located between Tamarama and Bondi Beach. Q: Being a harbour city, where can we get Sydney’s best seafood?
A: There are so many fantastic seafood options in Sydney however I don’t think you can go past Doyles on the Beach at Watsons Bay. Doyles is a popular seafood restaurant for both Sydney locals and tourists visiting our city. It is the perfect spot to sit back and have a long lunch of fresh local seafood whilst enjoying fantastic views of the harbour. Q: As a local, what is the best market to visit in Sydney and why?
A: Weekend markets are very popular in Sydney and The Rocks Markets has to be one of the standouts. Located in the historical area of Sydney, the markets consist of locally made
handcrafted jewellery, textiles, homewares, art and photography, plus delicious food. Q: Where is your favourite city park or garden?
A: The Royal Botanic Garden is still my favourite in Sydney. These gardens are always active with morning joggers and people taking a leisurely stroll through during the day. The Calyx will reopen at the start of October and is a must see whilst visiting the gardens. Q: What is a great hidden Sydney bar that people might not know about?
A: The Doss House is a cool hidden whisky bar located in a heritage listed building in The Rocks. The basement bar has five distinctive areas that each pays homage to its past tenant. My tip would be to visit The Doss House on a Sunday evening and enjoy an Irish music session and sing song.
Darling Harbour’s hottest new BAR
25% OFF
your bill when you present your hotel key card, up to $40
Shop C08, Ground Floor, ICC Sydney, Darling Harbour
@planarrestaurant
OCTOBER 2018
SYDNEY
1
See
Sculpture by the Sea, a spectacular exhibition along the Bondi to Tamarama coastal walk (18 Oct–4 Nov).
8
W HE RE I OCTO B E R 20 18
2
Dine
Eat at Momofuku Seiobo with seats so close to the kitchen you can feel the grill’s flames.
3
Drink
4
With a menu board that stretches from the ceiling to below the counter, Baxter’s Inn has something for everyone.
Discover
Go daytriping west of the city to the beautiful Blue Mountains region and see the Three Sisters rock formation.
5
Explore
Get lost in The Rocks, the historic ‘old town’ of Sydney. The perfect spot to dine and drink.
PEOPLE STANDING NEAR OREST KEYWAN'S "BRONZE AGE" AT SCULPTURE BY THE SEA BONDI, 2017. PHOTO: CLYDE YEE.
9
October at a Glance Jersey Boys Telling the incredible true story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, “Jersey Boys” is a whirlwind of a good time. It s the winner of two Helpmann Awards and with a world-class cast and crew, this production will have you tapping your feet and singing along. Capitol Theatre, Campbell Street, Haymarket. . jerseyboys.com.au 10
WHE RE I OCTO B E R 2 018
Ongoing
Pop-up Globe Experience Shakespeare the right way at Sydney’s Pop-up Globe. Performing a boutique selection of Shakespeare’s best, including “Macbeth” and “The Merchant of Venice”, you’ll be able to get up close and personal at the world’s first full-scale working Globe replica. This critically acclaimed festival of Shakespeare will transport you to a magical world of performance. Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park. 136 100. popupglobe.com.au
MAIN: JERSEY BOYS, PHOTO: JEFF BUSBY.
Ongoing
Sharing our passion for Australia’s national gemstone to the world Since 1948 A LT M A N N + C H E R N Y 18 Pitt Street, Sydney NSW, 2000 Australia | +61 2 9251 9477 sydney@altmanncherny.com.au | www.altmanncherny.com.au Social media @ AustralianOpals
IN OCTOBER Exhibitions at the State Library (From Oct 6) Six new and free exhibitions are taking up residence in the State Library this month. You can see everything from UNESCO World Heritage Collections to selfie extravaganzas. sl.nsw.gov.au
Nils Frahm (Oct 14) This is a one-time opportunity to experience the German piano maestro’s expert handling of ambient synths and entrancing keyboards in an all-live odyssey that pushes the boundaries of modern, classic and everything in between. sydneyoperahouse.com
From Oct 3
A Midnight Visit Lose yourself in a theatrical dreamworld inspired by the works of Edgar Allan Poe. The stage is an abandoned warehouse converted into a 30-room interactive theatre experience. Part choose-yourown-adventure, part film set, part playground and all absorbing, no two visits are the same. You’ll see themes of madness, death, guilt and impermanence and leave wanting to jump straight back in. 655 King Street, Newtown. amidnightvisit.com 12
WHE RE I OCTO B E R 2 018
Oct 19–Nov 4
Yack Festival Two jam-packed weeks of laughs, Sydney’s Yack Festival brings Australia’s best comics, including Rove McManus and Zoë Coombs Marr to the stage at this rip-roaring laugh fest. Giant Dwarf Theatre, 199 Cleveland Street, Redfern. giantdwarf.com.au
“Evie May” is a new Australian musical offering a compelling take on themes of memory, motherhood and Australia’s rich history, featuring a star-studded Australian cast led by Amanda Harrison. hayestheatre.com.au
Jesus Wants Me For A Sunbeam (Oct 18-27) “Jesus Wants Me for a Sunbeam” explores the worlds of perfection and family in a haunting and moving tale. Based on the book by Australian Author Peter Goldsworthy, this world-premiere theatre production is a must see. riversideparramatta.com.au
TOP: A MIDNIGHT VISIT. BOTTOM: ZOË COOMBS MARR AT YACK FESTIVAL.
Evie May (From Oct 12)
W N TS #P L A
IT I T HB
E
Open from October 10 am – 4 pm daily Free carnivorous plant display
October events at The Calyx
Dinnertime Doom 2 – 13 October: Kids create their very own mini-bog terrarium at this quirky, creepy and fun carnivorous plant themed workshop. Bookings required.
Garden Monsters
28 October: This is the Halloween event you’ve been waiting for! Join us in the garden for some spooky trick or treating fun. Bookings required.
Feeding Time
Family Day at The Calyx Free live lunchtime music 28 October: Come to the Calyx on the last Sunday of the month for our special family day. Fun filled activities suitable for all ages.
12.15 pm – 1 pm every Tuesday: Enjoy free live music performed by the talented students from Sydney Conservatorium of MusiC.
28 October: Get up close with these creepy and weird specimens for an exclusive feeding time. Bookings required.
Information and bookings: rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/plantswithbite #RBGSydney
Bohemian Harbour Lavender Bay’s gorgeous harbour views have allured artists for generations, and in the 70s and 80s the Bay became an erupting scene of bohemia counterculture. This exhibition showcases the works of those artists. Works from Brett Whiteley, Conrad Martens and Margaret Olley celebrate the rich history and constantly evolving culture of Lavender Bay. Museum of Sydney, Corner of Phillip and Bridge Streets, Sydney. 9251 5988. sydneylivingmuseums.com.au 14
WHE RE I OCTO B E R 2 018
From Oct 13
Masters of Modern Art at AGNSW Works from Picasso, Monet, Cezanne and more have travelled from the State Hermitage Museum in St Petersburg to be displayed at the Art Gallery of New South Wales (AGNSW). Come and marvel at experimentation and innovation from some of the world’s most influential artists in a journey of dynamism, colour and form that perfectly expresses the defining moments of change in modern art. Art Gallery of New South Wales, Art Gallery Road, The Domain. 1800 679 278. artgallery.nsw.gov.au
Liveworks Festival (Oct 18–28) Be dazzled by innovative works from acclaimed Australian and Asia Pacific artists. Discover up and coming artists in contemporary art with performances, installations, VR and anything else you can imagine. A special opportunity to experience the experimental and the groundbreaking. performancespace.com.au
Spot on Children’s Festival (Oct 9–13) A festival for children of all ages where families can experience some of the best children’s entertainment in the country. Catch theatre, music and film and a bunch of free activities that will leave the kids entertained and educated. riversideparramatta.com.au
TOP: "HENRI’S ARMCHAIR", BRETT WHITELEY, 1974-75. ART GALLERY OF NSW. COURTESY OF ELIZABETH M. EVATT AND LEURA TOY & RAILWAY MUSEUM © WENDY WHITELEY. BOTTOM: ALBERT MARQUET, 'THE BAY OF NAPLES' 1909, OIL ON CANVAS, 62 X 80.3CM, INV GE 9150, THE STATE HERMITAGE MUSEUM, ST PETERSBURG. PHOTO: © THE STATE HERMITAGE MUSEUM 2018, VLADIMIR TEREBENIN, LEONARD KHEIFETS AND YURI MOLOLKOVETS.
Ongoing
The Toxeth Reopens
The Tocky (as the locals call it) is a classic pub for all walks of life. It boasts a redesigned menu courtesy of Ben Varela
OKTOBERFEST
Celebrate the biggest Oktoberfest yet in Sydney. SAUSAGE EATING CHAMPIONSHIP? Dogs of
Oktoberfest contest? Best dressed competitions ou’ll find all this and more at Munich Brauhaus, The Bavarian and The Bavarian Beerha s this Oktoberfest. Costumed performers and larger-than-life entertainers will parade the streets, filling Sydney with the sounds of song, dance, and yodel. ive famous Oktoberfest biers will also be available, all imported from Bavaria. With the perfect bier to wash down uintessential German cuisine you’ll leave with a belly full of food, drink and laughs. ach of these restaurants boast multiple, exible spaces to cater to any si ed group, making them the perfect excuse to get your friends, family and work mates into the Oktoberfest spirit. Until 27 October, The Bavarian Beerhaüs, 24 York Street, Sydney. 8297 4111. Munich Brauhaus, Cnr Playfair Street and Argyle Street, The Rocks. 9247 7785. The Bavarian, World Square, 644 George Street, Sydney. 9259 5600. thebavarians.com/oktoberfest/ 16
W HE RE I OCTO B E R 2018
that emphasises seasonal cuisine, vegetarian and vegan options. With events all year round, you’ll be able to have fun and get fed. 345 Glebe Point Road, Sydney. 9660 2370. toxtethhotel.com.au For more great venues in the city visit wheretraveler.com
THE TOXTETH, PHOTO: ROCKET K.
DINING
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: TINA ARENA AND THE CAST OF "EVITA", PHOTO: JEFF BUSBY. MICHAEL BUBLÉ, PHOTO: EVAAN KHERAJ. LOST PICNIC, PHOTO: ESTABAN LA TESSA.
Michael Bublé in Concert
Michael Bublé, four-time Grammy Awardwinner needs no introduction. This
PERFORMANCE
special one-off
EVITA
performance
An epic Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice musical. LIVE THE STORY of
Eva Peron, performed by legendary Australian singersongwriter Tina Arena, through iconic songs including, “Don’t Cry For Me Argentina”, “On This Night of a Thousand Stars” and “Oh What a Circus.” As wife of Argentinian dictator Juan Peron, she climbed the social ladder to a position of wealth, power and privilege and ultimately became the spiritual leader of the Argentinian people. Until 3 November, Joan Sutherland Theatre, Sydney Opera House. 9318 8200. evitathemusical.com.au
marks the closure of Sydney’s Allianz Stadium. This show celebrates the romance of music like never before with special guests Guy Sebastian and Busby Marou. 5 October, Allianz Stadium, Moore
Panic! At The Disco at Qudos Bank Arena Oct 6
Fan favourites Panic! At The Disco return to Sydney with their “Pray for the Wicked" tour.
Lost Picnic at The Domain Oct 13 This boutique music festival features Tash Sultana, Meg Mac, Marlon Williams and Odette.
Patrizio Buanne at ICC Sydney Oct 30 Worldwide sensation Patrizo Buanne brings his latest album “Brave Patrizio” to the Australian stage.
Park. 132 849. ticketek.com.au For more great
concerts in the city visit wheretraveler.com
17
DAVID GOLDBLATT The legendary South African photographer at the MCA.
AN EXHIBITION OF work by late
South African photographer
David Goldblatt is on display at the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) from 19 October. Goldblatt’s
Parko Techni at Sydney Olympic Park
photographic work spans his six-decade career, depicting
Parko Techni is a collection of
the rise, fall and legacy of Apartheid in South Africa. Featuring unseen vintage prints, as well as Goldblatt’s famous photographic series and material from his personal archive, this exhibition is a unique viewing opportunity. His photographs have an intense human focus and o er powerful re ections on the people living through decades of South African history. His work resonates with human struggles across the globe, and the brutal history of modern civilisation, including that of Australia. From 19 October, Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, 140 George Street, The Rocks. 9245 2400. mca.com.au 18
WHE RE I OCTO B E R 2 018
six free installation artworks on display at Sydney Olympic Park. A diverse mix of artists are involved with the project from contemporary figureheads Khaled Sabsabia and Gary Deirmendjian, to “Sculpture by the Sea” alumnus, Emma Anna. Until 31 October, various locations, Sydney Olympic Park. sydneyolympicpark.com.au For more great exhibitions in the city visit wheretraveler.com
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: DAVID GOLDBLATT, A PLOT-HOLDER, HIS WIFE AND THEIR ELDEST SON AT LUNCH, WHEATLANDS, RANDFONTEIN , 1962, SILVER GELATIN PHOTOGRAPH ON FIBRE-BASED PAPER. IMAGE COURTESY THE ARTIST AND GOODMAN GALLERY, JOHANNESBURG AND CAPE TOWN ©THE ARTIST. "EMBER", LUMIFORMS (JONATHON BOLITHO, HARRY HOCK).
EXHIBITION
Film Festivals
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: ODD CULTURE, PHOTO: © OHN PUAH. "ISLAND OF THE HUNGRY GHOSTS" DIRECTOR GABRIELLE BRADY, ANTENNA FILM FESTIVAL.
Antenna Film Festival Oct 9–14 Featuring 48 thought-provoking documentaries from 23 countries, Antenna Film Festival shows the best of international non-fiction cinema.
Jewish Film Festival Oct 23–Nov 21
BARS
Showing at Event Cinemas Bondi Junction, catch a diverse selection of Jewish films from all over the world offering fascinating insights into global Jewish culture.
ODD CULTURE
A wild ale and natural wine bar is sure to excite the tastebuds. TASTEBUD TITILLATION is the name of
the game at Darlinghurst bar, Odd Culture. Wash down an everchanging menu of natural cheeses and cured meats, from which you can build your own mixed plate, with a drink of your choice. Guests are encouraged to try something new and with a constantly rotating selection of twenty beers and twelve natural wines on tap and a 100-strong wild bottled beer list they make it easy. Every fortnight curious guests are given the opportunity to meet the makers of their favourite craft beers and enjoy a two-course meal with paired beers and wines. Try something a little bit odd just minutes from the CBD. Mon–Wed 4pm–12am, Thu 4pm–1am, Fri–Sat 12pm–1am, Sun 12pm–11pm. Level 2, 122 Flinders Street, Darlinghurst. oddculture.com.au
Japanese Film Festival: Classics Oct 3–31 Enjoy the curated Japanese Film Festival Classics program at the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Best of all it's free! For more great festivals in the city visit wheretraveler.com
19
FIND THE BEST IN CHIPPENDALE ONE BLOCK AT A TIME
Eat
Shop
Head down Kensington Street, and follow the signs to Chippendale’s famous Spice Alley. This ‘little Asia’ is home to tasty street food vendors, and indoor-outdoor seating. For fine dining, try modern Australian at Automata.
You’ll be sure to stock up on cool threads at Central Park Mall, home to the likes of adidas, Superdry, Hype DC, Footlocker and Glue. Stop in at the huge Daiso Japan store on Level One and you may never leave. It's full of affordable funky homewares, stationery, gifts and so much more!
18-20 Kensington Street, Chippendale. spicealley.com.au
Automata 5 Kensington Street, Chippendale. automata.com.au
Fun See the latest blockbusters and indie flicks at Palace Central Sydney cinemas. There’s a cool lounge area to chill before your movie, or why not try their ultra-luxe Palace Platinum cinema experience. Fun is guaranteed for little and big kids alike at Timezone. It is filled with all sorts of arcade games—and there’s prizes too!
Palace Central Sydney Level 3, Central Park Mall, 28 Broadway, Chippendale. palacecinemas.com.au
Timezone Level 2, Central Park Mall, 28 Broadway, Chippendale. timezone.com.au
Central Park Mall 28 Broadway, Chippendale. centralparksydney.com
Drink The crisp cool of Chippendale comes to the fore in its choice of quality drinking dens. Gin lovers should make their way to Gin Lane for Insta-worthy cocktail creations. Taste handpicked wines from around Australia and the world at the urban Handpicked Cellar Door. Finish your night drinking with locals at The Clare Bar at the Old Clare Hotel.
Gin Lane 16 Kensington Street, Chippendale. ginlanesydney.com.au
Handpicked Cellar Door 50 Kensington Street, Chippendale. handpickedwines.com.au
The Old Clare Hotel 1 Kensington Street, Chippendale. theoldclarehotel.com.au
Clockwise From top: Central Park; The Clare Bar; Gin Lane; Spice Alley.
20
WHE RE I OCTO B E R 2 018
For more things to do in Chippendale go to wheretraveler.com
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: PMG. CHRIS COURT PHOTOGRAPHY. © WES NEL PHOTOGRAPHY. ROSHAN SUKHLA.
Spice Alley
Bohemian Harbour Artists of Lavender Bay Exhibition on now • Museum of Sydney
slm.is/bohemian
MEDIA PARTNER SYDNEY MORNING HERALD MUSEUM OF SYDNEY Major partner AMP CAPITAL Supporting partner GROSVENOR PLACE Beulah, Sense and Scrubber of Lavender Bay, Peter Kingston, 1985. Photo courtesy State Library of NSW. North Sydney Heritage Centre, Stanton Library © Peter Kingston
21
AROUND TOWN FIND THE BEST IN MANLY
Eat
Drink
Manly’s beachside locale has over 150 bars, cafés and restaurants to explore. Drop into one of Manly’s newest venues, The Greenhouse, and enjoy a great meal or drink at their multistory beachfront location. Or how about tasting some sweet and savoury dishes at Peanut Butter Jelly with authentic flavours from South East Asia, and North, Central and South America for your taste buds to enjoy.
For spring cocktails and cosy hotspots, explore the magical laneways around Manly. From Belgrave Cartel to Insitu and Donny’s Bar, Manly has small bars sorted.
Insitu 1/18 Sydney Road, Manly. insitumanly.com.au
Belgrave Cartel 6 Belgrave Street, Manly. belgravecartel.com.au
Manly Greenhouse
7 Market Place, Manly. donnys.com.au
36–38 South Steyne, Manly. manlygreenhouse.com.au
Explore
Peanut Butter Jelly 7 Whistler Street, Manly. peanutbutterjelly.com.au
Shop You are spoilt for choice in Manly. Browse the funky boutiques and surf stores or check out the unique open-air weekend markets featuring local designs, art and fashion, every Saturday and Sunday from 9am–5pm, weather permitting.
Manly Market Place Sydney Road, Manly. manlymarketplace.com.au
Aloha Manly Style 44 Pittwater Road, Manly. alohasurfmanly.com
Aboriginal Dreamtime Fine Art Gallery 36 The Corso, Manly. aboriginalfineart.com.au
Get spooked this Halloween with specially formatted ghost tours running at Q Station. Spend these school holidays at Manly Beach! Explore Cabbage Tree Bay Marine Reserve with a guided snorkel by ecotreasures or book a lesson with Manly Surf School and learn to surf at iconic World Surfing Reserve Manly Beach. Why not explore of Manly with Manly Kayak Centre and visit Collins or Store Beach. Looking for more local, insider’s knowledge? Drop into Hello Manly – the Official Booking and Information Centre to grab your free map and hit the friendly staff up for all your booking and activity needs.
Hello Manly Manly Wharf Forecourt. Clockwise from top: Coastal walk; Kayak on Store Beach; the Manly Ferry, Manly Cove Promenade.
22
WHE RE I OCTO B E R 2 018
For more things to do in Manly go to hellomanly.com.au
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: HAMILTON LUND/DESTINATION NSW; JAMES PIPINO/DESTINATION NSW; DESTINATION NSW; © SALTY DINGO 2017.
Donny’s Bar
SUBSCRIBE
& SAVE 24% SAVE UP TO
◆
Never miss an issue, Vacations & Travel delivered to your door
◆
Subscribe for yourself or someone you love . . . the perfect gift that lasts all year
◆
Subscribe, renew a subscription or purchase a gift subscription online at vacationstravel.com
COVER PRICE!
V ascations s n o i n Vacat Vacatio A FI
A TI
N
A
RE
E -D
W
AY
VA
IN
M
A*
*
AL
.com
NS
JA
EA
AT
RL
N
O
T IO
vacationst ravel
W
CA
SPRI NG 2018 ISSU E 108
l trave
& travel
& travel
2018 JUL/AU G/SEP stravel.com ISSUE 107 vacation
m 18 N 20 avel.co AY/JU ationstr AP R/M 106 vac ISS UE
TH
II
NE
WA
IN
HA
IN
IN
S
ON
HT
AC
IG
YV
W
WI
DA
E -N
&
V E-
F IV
SRI LA NK FO OD SAF AN AR I KA KA IN TH E DU WE T SEA SO N AF RIC A: INT TH E WI O LD
CRU ISIN G
N, HUR TIGR UTE AVA LON AND DRE AM D . S ISE CRU DEA TH E
ICO M E OXF
PL US
’S
TH E SH ETL AN DS STE AM BO CO LO RA AT, DO
D AY
NE
SAY I DO IN FIJ IN E W
S
Barefoot luxury IN TH E MAL D
AU$12.95
readers.
S EAN ORL S IL L A S, A G O R WED DINGN D MO WAOON S,A K E C O EYM HONR S L G N E ROM ANC E . S RA R E NG F I J I D THAIL ND G KO F L IN ATZE RLA $12.95 HON AUST TRIA SWI N D AUS RH IA G NEW BUR E MAM MOT Z L SA PLU S N JAC KSO N HOL PA J ADAN MJOR NA T E VI FINLAND CUB A L AO S
Winte.r th rills
IVES
only for Australian
II
. H AWI A. . F IJ
U U AT VA N E D O N IA AL W C
P LU
*Entry valid
t deligh Islan.d
●
AU
F IT S O TRA P O R O N IA G CAO PATA MA ●
TA I
WA
N
●
BAL
I
●
.
●
for Australian readers.
95 AU$12.
●
●
●
●
*Entry valid only
Photo: Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Maldives.
Vacations & Travel Magazine offers readers over 140 pages of feature stories, travel news and reviews. Each issue takes you around the world to your favourite holiday destinations, as well as off-the-beaten-track locations just waiting to be discovered.
OFF THE
●
ULURU
●
TH ORT WOR DA L L A S F
●
POLAND
●
TURKEY
●
●
ZEAL
AND
●
PHILI
PPINE
SUBSCRIPTION DELIVERED TO:
1 YEAR (4 issues)
2 YEARS (8 issues)
3 YEARS (12 issues)
Australia New Zealand
$45.95* $49.95
$84.95* $92.95
$116.95* $126.95
S
Prices are AUD. * GST included for delivery within Australia.
SU B SCRIBE ONL INE AT VACAT I ONST RAV E L .COM TODAY. Vacations & Travel is published quarterly; January, April, July and October. Please allow up to 12 weeks for your first issue to arrive. Vacations & Travel Magazine is published by Where Australia Pty Ltd. A member of the
Morris Media Network.
#wheresydney THE BEST GREEN GARDENS, THROUGH OUR LENS AND YOURS
•@words.by.sian Autumn Greens
•@roshan
Chippendale Green
•@la_vida_aussie
Arthur McElhone Reserve
•@stuu1
Tennis Greens
Snap a great moment in Sydney, and tag it on Instagram with #wheresydney or #whereaustralia for a chance to appear in an upcoming issue.
24
WHE RE I OCTO B E R 2 018
Where to Eat, Shop and Play Is Just a Touch Away The Where Traveler website gives you instant access to thousands of hand-picked recommendations for things to do and places to go in destinations all over the world.
wheretraveler.com
Are you ready to Pâté? Feast your eyes upon Good Food Month’s festival program. By Olivia Storrie STAY RIGHT WHERE YOU are because this month the best local and international chefs in Australia are calling Sydney’s Hyde Park home. Celebrating 20 years, Sydney’s Good Food Month is sure to be monumental this year. Hyde Park Palms, Good Food Month’s vibrant pop up restaurant, will return and is set to host an array of foodie feasts and conversations whilst the Night Noodle Markets make a mouth-watering return. Good Food Month celebrates the influential chefs and restaurants that have shaped Australia’s culinary sphere. It also seeks to celebrate new and emerging players in the culinary world with events like the Young Chefs Lunch (21 October). Join renowned 22-year-old chef Isabella Poti for an Italian banquet (6 October) or celebrate the talented women of the culinary world with a delicious feast (18 October). Kick off the festival with Good Food Month’s 20th birthday party. Lucky attendees will get the chance to party like its 1998 with legendary Australian chefs Christine Mansfield, Neil Perry and Ross Lusted. This year will have visitors struggling to decide which events to attend with a jam-packed program. Australian foodie heroes Neil Perry, Bill Granger, Christine Mansfield, Stephanie Alexander and Ross Lusted will all hold court in the Hyde Park Palms with conversations running throughout the month. Everything up to and including Southern Californian Cuisine can be found at Sydney’s Good Food Month this year. Iconic chef Jason Neroni will team up with "MasterChef" consultant Monty Koludrovic to present a menu of canapés alongside a scrumptious grazing station (12 October). The best of the local countryside will be
26
WHE RE I OCTO B E R 2 018
coming to Sydney to celebrate regional cuisine. Phil Wood of Point Leo Estate, Emma McGaskill from Adelaide’s The Pot and Ben Devlin of Paper Daisy will be providing the goods (13 October). The lovely people behind the monthlong festival have done all the thinking for you when it comes to Date Night (5 October). The recipe for a great date night is always the same: delicious food, a film that gets you right in the feels and a scoop of the best artisanal ice cream in town. This year, attendees will be treated to a screening of “10 Things I Hate About You” alongside Ume Burgers signature dish and Cow & The Moon Gelato. Load up on carbs with the return of Pasta Battle (11 October). The four-course dinner will be served up by talented chefs from some of Australia’s leading Italian restaurants including Federico Zanellato, Federica Andrisani and Joel Valvasori-Pereza. Fortunately, the much-loved Night Noodle Markets are returning for three weeks between 4–21 October, so you can sample the 40 delicious stalls or keep returning for your favourites. Enjoy a host of delicacies from the likes of Gelato Messina, Mr Bao, Donut Papi, Chur Burger and more. There will be dancers, DJs and live music so you can stay all night. A host of events will also take place throughout various restaurants across Sydney. The Let’s Do Lunch program hosted by Peter Lehman Wines of the Barossa will serve up $45 lunch offerings whilst leading restaurants across Sydney will host their own curated events as part of Friends of Good Food Month. Events are selling fast, and may be sold out. For the full program and ticket bookings visit goodfoodmonth.com/sydney
BILL GRANGER, PHOTO: ANSON SMART.
DESSERT BY ISABELLA POTI.
ISABELLA POTI.
CUISINE BY BEN DEVLIN OF PAPER DAISY, HALCYON HOUSE, PHOTO: KARA ROSENLUND.
FRE
SH S
T I, A L BACO R E G PAGHET REE
NO
LIV
EA
ND
MA
RJ
OR
AM
HYDE PARK PALMS, PHOTO: NIKKI TO.
27
BY
D FE
ER
IC
A
D AN
RIS
AN
I.
Invictus Games A celebration of the unconquered spirit of our veterans and those still serving. By Zac Lewis THE INVICTUS GAMES, an international adaptive sports event, is coming to Sydney’s shores this month. With events running from 20-27 October there is a jam-packed schedule of sporting gold. For those wondering, adaptive sports are extremely similar to their standard counterparts but with equipment and rule modifications to meet the needs of the competitors. Competitors are classified according
28
WHE RE I OCTO B E R 2 018
the ways in which their impairment affects their ability to carry out the fundamentals of their chosen sport. This way the playing field is fair for all. The Games were founded in 2014 by His Royal Highness, The Duke of Sussex, Prince Harry. The first games were held in London the same year. Two years later they were held in Orlando, USA and then the year after in Toronto, Canada. Now Sydney has the chance to welcome over
500 athletes from 18 different countries across the world. His Royal Highness, The Duke of Sussex founded the Games after visiting and watching the US Warrior Games, a sporting event for injured American service personnel. From this he created an expanded, international version of the games that invites servicepersonnel from all allied nations to take part. HRH The Duke of Sussex remains as the patron of the Invictus Games and continues to support and drive awareness for them so that they can change the lives of wounded active and veteran defence personnel. Australia has been given a unique opportunity in the hosting of the games this year. Along with our veterans and those still serving, we are honoured to
IMAGES COURTESY OF INVICTUS GAMES SYDNEY 2018.
be able to commemorate the 100 year anniversary of the end of World War 1. Rather than a competition of the world’s most elite athletes, the Invictus Games calls for competitors of all abilities to ignite their ‘unconquered’ spirit. The Games support the power of sport in inspiring recovery and rehabilitation and hope to generate a wider understanding of the sacrifice that veterans across the world have made in serving their countries. Sydney will host the games at its world-class sporting venues. Catch sailing and road cycling events in the world-famous Sydney Harbour and The Domain. The main hub of action will be Sydney Olympic Park, the iconic home of the 2000 Olympic Games. This state-of-the-art facility will host
all the aquatic and athletics events, such as swimming, powerlifting, sitting volleyball, archery, indoor rowing, wheelchair basketball and wheelchair rugby. The Invictus Games will also host unique events. One of these is the Jaguar Land Rover Driving Challenge. Teams of two will battle it out to get the best time in a series of challenging courses. The winners won’t be the ones that drive the fastest but instead, the ones with the best precision and communication. Another unique event is sitting volleyball where each player must have at least one buttock touching the floor whenever they contact the ball. Watching these sporting heroes fight for victory is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Kick off the Invictus Games the right way with the Opening Ceremony on Saturday 20 October. Held at the Sydney Opera House, it will be a special opportunity to welcome the competitors, families and friends from around Australia and the world to our humble shores.At the end of the eight days of competition, rock out with altrock band Birds of Tokyo at the Closing Ceremony at the Qudos Bank Arena. The Closing Ceremony is a celebration of the achievements from the Games and the spirit of the competitors. With intense sporting competition from around the world, the Invictus Games are a not-to-be-missed event. For comprehensive event and ticket information visit invictusgames2018.org
29
The Harbour City Humpback whales, spectacular re r s a i er a i all re e a ra e a a rl am s opera house.
WHALES AND SAILS
l
ise r m el ale a i g e. My Fast Ferry. a ai r ises.
30
WHE RE I OCTO B E R 2 018
SYDNEY’S ICONIC HARBOUR HAS pretty much seen it all since then Lieutenant James Cook arrived aboard the Endeavour in 1770 and named it Port Jackson. It was here that the first settlers set up camp in 1788 and the harbour has been an important part of city life ever since, used for transportation and recreation. Little wonder it is widely regarded as the greatest leisure harbour in the world. On any given day, the harbour is alive with boats of all shapes and sizes, be it passenger ferries, state-of-the-art yachts or kayakers. This is particularly true during the traditional Boxing Day launch of the Rolex Sydney to Hobart yacht race, when hundreds of craft follow the racers out of the harbour. And on New Year’s Eve, there’s no better spot to be than on a boat beneath the Sydney Harbour Bridge as the breathtaking fireworks display takes place in the skies above. While the Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House are its two most famous
landmarks, the harbour has plenty more sights up its sleeve. Circular Quay, Luna Park and Anzac Bridge are all accessible and visible from the water along with hundreds of bays, coves, beaches and waterways. Several islands can also be found in the harbour, the most notable being Fort Denison, Shark Island and Cockatoo Island. With so much to see and do, it pays to plan ahead and the good news is that there are plenty of ways to get out on the water, designed to suit all budgets, time frames and interests. Multi-award winning Captain Cook Cruises offers premium dining, sightseeing, ferry and whale watching cruises. The Harbour Story cruise combines premium sightseeing with the stories of Sydney’s most fascinating characters every day at 10am and 2.15pm from Circular Quay. Upgrade to the premium package including a glass of sparkling wine, morning afternoon tea selection and coffee to order.
OPPOSITE PAGE: JONAS LIEBSCHNER.
Sydney’s official Hop On Hop Off Harbour Explorer pass now includes up to 11 stops and up to two days to visit them. These red rocket ferries zoom between Circular Quay, Taronga Zoo, Watson’s Bay, Fort Denison, Sydney Fish Market, Shark Island, Luna Park, Manly, Barangaroo, ICC Sydney and Darling Harbour with commentary. Start your journey from Circular Quay, Darling Harbour or Manly and save up to 75% on attraction entry with a Captain Cook cruise and attraction combo ticket including entry to Sydney’s most popular waterfront attractions. The company’s flagships Sydney 2000 and John Cadman 2 take Sydney Harbour dining to an impressive level. A comprehensive range of breakfast, lunch, high tea and dinner options operate daily with a choice of contemporary Australian buffet, à la carte, and six-course degustation menus. For the more adventurous, book a Whale Watching cruise online and save up 35% aboard Captain Cook Cruises’ spacious ocean catamaran. Cruises operate daily with a whale guarantee and expert commentary. For a great-value, fullday, adventure try the Taronga Zoo and Whale Watching combo prices at only $99. Barangaroo Fast Ferry is the new direct services between Manly and Sydney’s newest and most exciting city precinct— Barangaroo. From the calm headland reserve to the urban energy of the retail centre, Barangaroo is a place to meet, work dine or relax. Captain Cook Cruises operate two fast vessels daily, seating up to 400 passengers. The southern migration of humpback whales swimming past Sydney is now in full swing! What does this mean? Curious whales coming right up to the boats to say hello and mothers bringing their newborn calves right in close along the beaches teaching them how to jump! Don’t miss out on this experience of a lifetime and jump onboard one of Whale Watching Sydney’s cruises departing daily from Darling Harbour or Circular Quay. Whale Watching Sydney are the obvious choice with more than 25 years of experience watching whales and the best fleet of custom built, modern and fast whale watching vessels.
The three-hour Discovery Cruise will take you on Sydney’s largest and best purposebuilt whale watching boat, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride over three levels with 360-degree wrap around spacious decks. The two-hour Adventure Cruise takes you on a purpose-built, 27-seat high speed craft, perfect for thrill seekers wanting an adrenalin rush. Both cruises reach the whales in lightning speed, and with a 99% success rate or your next cruise free. If you want the ultimate whale watching and Sydney Harbour experience go with the Discovery Cruise Combo. It includes the three-hour Discovery Cruise, professional photos taken during your cruise and a My Fast Ferry 24-hour Hop On Hop Off Pass that gives you access to all that Sydney Harbour has to offer. Book online at whalewatchingsydney.com.au When it comes to Sydney Harbour sightseeing the My Fast Ferry 24-hour Hop On Hop Off Pass offers great value with five different ferry services included in one pass so you can visit all the popular harbour locations: Manly, Darling Harbour, Watsons Bay, Taronga Zoo, Fort Denison, Quarantine Station, Circular Quay, Rose Bay, Pyrmont Bay and Milsons Point. This versatile ticket has the most inclusions, highest service frequency and longest operating hours and is the only ticket which includes unlimited travel on Manly Fast Ferry, so there’s no need to rush back from Manly in the evening. If you don’t have time to do it all, but still want to experience Sydney from the water, one-hour and two-hour cruises are also available daily with regular departures from Wharf 6 Circular Quay and Darling Harbour. If you are just after a fast ferry ride than a trip to Manly is a must do, it only takes 18 minutes and services depart every 20 minutes from Wharf 2. My Fast Ferry and Whale Watching Sydney ticket offices are located on wharves 2 and 6 at Circular Quay, Manly Wharf and Darling Harbour, Pier 26 shop 2B. Speak with the friendly and knowledgeable staff and they will advise you on the best ways to get the most out of your time on Sydney Harbour. Opal Cards are accepted on most My Fast Ferry services. Book online at myfastferry.com.au
W HE RE TO B O O K : MY FAST FERRY. Harbour Sightseeing cruise departs Wharf 6, Circular Quay and to Manly departs Wharf 2, Circular Quay. The My Fast Ferry App is a free download for iOS and Android from myfastferry.com.au/app Tel: 9583 1199. myfastferry.com.au SYDNEY HARBOUR ECO HOPPER. Tel: 9583 1199. ecohopper.com.au CAPTAIN COOK CRUISES. Departs Wharf 6, Circular Quay and Pier 26, Darling Harbour. Tel: 9206 1111. captaincook.com.au barangaroofastferry.com.au
31
Fire from the Outback Australian opal is not only the world’s most fascinating and colourful gemstone, it can also be a sound long-term investment.
32
WHE RE I OCTO B E R 2 018
CALLED ‘THE RAINBOW STONE’ by Australia’s Aboriginal people, opal is without doubt one of nature’s most remarkable gifts. It is now recognised as one of the five precious gemstones in the world, along with diamonds, emeralds, rubies and sapphires, and is an excellent investment. While small amounts of opals may be found in other countries such as Ethiopia, Mexico and the USA, Australia produces more than 90 per cent of the world’s supply. The romance of the opal is in the gem’s incredible ability to expose an infinite number of colours, forever moving with the light. Mined in the outback of Australia across three states,
it is as much the call of the outback that lures the opal miner and keeps them going. Scorched landscapes and blazing red sunsets, the night stars from horizon to horizon, this is a hauntingly beautiful country that penetrates one’s soul. The elusive opal was formed millions of years ago when liquid silica filtered down into the faults and fissures of sedimentary rock. When the water content evaporated, tiny spheres of silica remained and over time were solidified. The intensity and combination of colour occur with such variety that each gem has an individual character. In 1964 the CSIRO (Australia’s national research laboratories) unlocked the riddle of why opals have such colours.
The intensity and combination of colour occur with such variety that each gem has an individual character. Opal is composed of minute particles of silica in closely packed spherical aggregates. It is the varying arrangement of these particles (and, of course, cavities) that causes the reflected light to be split into the full range of colours of the spectrum. There are three main production areas in Australia for mining opals. There’s the bright and beautiful Queensland boulder opal which is mined around the Quilpie area in Western Queensland. Lightning Ridge in New South Wales is the home of the famous black opal which derives its name from the colour of the nobbies or pieces of rough opal in which the gems are usually found. The third area is Coober Pedy and Mintabie in South Australia. Coober Pedy is an Aboriginal name, meaning ‘white man in a hole’, which describes exactly what miners still do today—live underground to escape the fierce heat of summer. This is where the white or milk opals are mined. The value of an opal depends on the amount and brilliance of the colour, preferably being evenly distributed across the face of the polished gem.
The greater the spectrum of colours from red to violet, the better, with crimson, reds and orange being rarer than the greens and blues. Milkiness, cloudiness or greyness detracts from the value. Ideally, the greater the number of colours, the more prized the gem, and if these are arranged in a block pattern, more value is added. The extremes are pin-sized dots of colour (pinfire) to one large sheet of colour (broadflash) covering the whole stone. The elusive ‘harlequin’ is the ultimate in this form but is very rare. Shapes of the finished opal vary according to the characteristics of each stone. Boulder opal is usually cut in baroque or free form, whereas seam opal is at its best presented in cabochon (domed) form. If you are buying an unset opal, it is important to consider the way it will eventually be worn. For example, some opals will offer a better play of colour when worn vertically, as in a brooch or pendant, whereas others are best flat, as in a ring setting. There is a great deal to consider when investing in your opal, but expert advice is available for your complete pleasure and pride in an ever-inspiring piece of jewellery. Above all, buy the opal colour that appeals to you. Enjoy your purchase, knowing it’s geologically millions of years old, but will give you pleasure every day of the year. Opals—truly nature’s own fireworks!
T H E R A I N B O W S TO N E :
(Opposite page) The Great Reef Collection by Opal Minded. (Above) Black opal pendant enhancer with diamonds, set in 18kt yellow gold. Designed by Fiona Altmann, Altmann + Cherny. (Below left) Jewellery from Giulians.
33
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SEC TION
Rainbow Treasures It’s all in the family at Opal Minded, as their opal treasures head from the mines of Jundah–Opalville straight to their boutique in The Rocks.
Feature Headline
Australian opals are more precious than others found in North and South America, Europe and Africa. What is so unique about Australian opals and why do they make for such a stunning piece? What differentiates our opals from those found elsewhere is Australian opals’ outstanding colour play coupled with their sedimentary origin, which also often makes them more durable. In short, Australian opals due to their superior aesthetic and durability characteristics constitute the benchmark for the others. Australian opals are not a static stone. Their beauty is in the uniqueness of their colour play and pattern in movement.
O PA L M I N D E D
(From top) “Soul of Radiance,” boulder opal in white gold pendant with diamonds, designed by Renata Bernard; “Galaxy” from Opalville, one of the largest precious boulders ever found; opal in host rock.
34
WHE RE I OCTO B E R 2 018
You are involved in the process right from the moment the opal is mined from the ground. How does this start-to-finish investment set your creations apart? It all starts with John, my husband, finding a trace of opal, and that’s not easy. He then cuts the host rock and blocks it into progressively smaller pieces until we decide on the shape that maximises colour play and the setting potential of the opal in it. Having the control over the shaping of the stones after they get out of the ground as well as of the jewellery creation gives us a unique advantage of working directly with nature, so the result is infused with our, that is John’s and my, vision, which gives a finished piece its unique identity.
Opal mining is dusty, difficult and lonely work. What keeps you motivated to seek and share the gem? What keeps John motivated is the great treasure hunter dream of finding the opal with no equals. For me and our Opal Minded team, John’s treasure hunt means we can share the joy and the privilege of the first-hand opal mining story that comes with every gemstone from our mines. Opal Minded is a family business from the mines to the store. How do you split the responsibilities, and do you think the finished product is better for it? My husband grew up in an opal mining family, so naturally I could never step into that line of work. He understands the bush. He can withstand it for a long time. I, on the other hand, love being in the mines to pay respect to the land that bears this magnificent gemstone and the hardships involved in delivering it. What does the Australian opal tell visitors about the land? Australian opals tell the story of ancient times when the dinosaurs roamed the Earth. It tells a story of the inland sea, of the creatures that used to populate it. It tells a story of hardship, desire and hope. A story of the impossible becoming possible and the beauty found in the most arid places. To view your own piece of Australian history, visit Opal Minded’s luxurious light filled boutique in the historic Rocks district, where you will be mesmerised by Australia’s national gemstone.
ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF OPAL MINDED.
RECENTLY, WE SPOKE with Renata Bernard, the Creative Director and General Manager of Opal Minded, to unlock the secrets of the opals from their Jundah mines.
W H E R E S Y D N E Y O C T O B E R 2 018
Shop
SE ARCH THE CIT Y / For more listings, see wheretraveler.com/sydney
Aboriginal Arts Market at Carriageworks Carriageworks presents SOUTH EAST | Aboriginal Arts Market, a showcase of the cultural heritage of South-Eastern Aboriginal Australia. Curated by Hetti Perkins and Jonathan Jones, the market features around 30 stalls, showcasing traditional and contemporary practices including weaving, literature, ceramics, carving, photography, painting, shellwork and textiles, SOUTH EAST offers a unique opportunity to ‘meet the makers’ and experience the unique creativity of contemporary Aboriginal art from this region. Saturday 6 October 10am–6pm and Sunday 7 October 10am–3pm. Free entry. 245 Wilson Street, Eveleigh. carriageworks.com.au
APPAREL
PHOTO: ZAN WIMBERLEY.
ESTRO
Australia’s largest luxury designer store, Estro is your one-stop shop for everything fashion. Estro offers local and visiting fashionistas a wide selection of the latest fashion and accessories from Europe’s most prestigious designers. Touch and feel the up-to-date European collections on the rack, with 10,000 discounted ladies and men’s designer fashion items, including Moschino, Valentino, Prada, Fendi, Gucci, Versace, Armani, Kenzo, Max Mara, Lanvin, Giuseppe Zanotti, Dolce & Gabbana, Miu Miu, Givenchy and many others. All available for immediate purchase. 192 Pitt Street, Sydney. 183 Pitt Street, Sydney. 72 Castlereagh Street, Sydney. 20 Bridge Street (ASX Building), Sydney. 204 Botany Road, Alexandria. estro.com.au
ET AL
Et Al has a cult fashion following as an Australian label that is well known for its relaxed tailoring and timeless pieces that transcend gender, age and calibre. The staff are enlightening and provide a personalised styling service with extensive knowledge of the Et Al aesthetic. Et Al offers men’s and women’s clothing with an extensive size range available. Shop 40, Level 1, Queen Victoria Building, 455 George Street, Sydney. 9267 6476. etal-australia.com GORMAN
Australian fashion label Gorman brings fun and colour to their cool clothing. From dresses, tops, pants and jackets, to funky socks and shoes, Gorman offer a very unique and colourful take on Australian style, often in a range of quirky
patterns and colours. Shop 18, Queen Victoria Building, 455 George Street, Sydney. 9269 0992. The Galeries, 500 George Street, Sydney. 9261 0971. gormanshop.com.au GUCCI
One of the most predominant fashion houses in the world, Gucci has its Sydney home on the luxury level of Westfield Sydney. Gucci represent the pinnacle of Italian craftsmanship and are known for their quality and attention to detail. Shop women’s and men’s clothing, handbags, jewellery, accessories and more. Shop 3012/4004, Westfield Sydney, 188 Pitt Street, Sydney. 1300 442 878. gucci.com HARROLDS
Harrolds is an Australian fashion institution and the go-to store for modern
luxury pieces. It was founded in 1985 by John Poulakis in Melbourne. The unparalleled range found within Harrolds luxury Sydney department store includes prestigious tailoring from heritage labels and modern redcarpet favourites alongside their own hand-made, Italian-crafted private label. Harrolds Man: Westfield Sydney, Level 3, 188 Pitt Street, Sydney. 9232 8399. Harrolds Woman: Westfield Sydney, Level 4, 188 Pitt Street, Sydney. 9210 2500. harrolds.com.au IGNAZIA
Ignazia produces their own unique label of easy to wear garments, both timeless and classic made from the very best fabric. They also stock a range of labels including Mela Purdie, Verge, Sarah Pacini and more. Shop 4037, Level 4, Westfield Sydney, 185 Pitt Street, Sydney. 9233 2007. Shop 2043,
35
Shop Westfield Bondi Junction, 500 Oxford Street, Bondi Junction. 9389 4348. Shop L109 Chatswood Chase, Chatswood. 9411 7699. Shop 7/10, MLC Centre, Sydney. 9232 3787. 633 Military Road, Mosman. 9960 5284. ignazia.com.au PETER ALEXANDER
Australia’s pyjama king, Peter Alexander, is a must-visit for all your stylish sleepwear needs. From chic slippers to luxe robes, and a host of funky sleepwear options, including men’s, women’s and children’s pyjamas, Peter Alexander has created a loyal following. Look out for the ever-popular designer collections with your favourite characters, like Mickey Mouse and Winnie the Pooh. Shop 2037 Westfield Sydney, Pitt Street Mall, Sydney. 9223 7451. Shop L00.57 Mid City, 197-211 Pitt St Mall, Sydney. 9232 4941. Shop 10.37 World Square, 644 George Street, Sydney. 8098 0487. peteralexander.com.au
over 40. 100% Australian made, they offer an exclusive range of both special event and casual wear. 139 George Street, The Rocks. 9252 7451. smoothaustralia.com.au UNIQLO
Get back to high-quality basics with UNIQLO’s wide range of men’s, women’s and children’s clothing. From their famous ultralight down puffer jackets, to their fine-merino wool sweaters, UNIQLO has an enormous range, all stocked in a wide variety of colours. Check out their designer collaboration collections too! MidCity Centre, L01.01 Level 1, 197 Pitt St Mall, Sydney. 9232 6862. uniqlo.com/au
BEAUTY
AESOP
SMOOTH
Visit Aesop’s signature stores and you’ll walk into a beautiful, meticulouslycrafted space. This iconic Australian skincare brand offers a unique range of skin, hair and body care products formulated in their custombuilt laboratory using ingredients from the most reputable suppliers across the globe. Shop 4033, Level 4, Westfield Sydney, Pitt Street Mall, Sydney. 9239 0477. Shop 20, The Strand Arcade, 412–414 George Street, The Strand Arcade, Sydney. 9235 2353. 95 George Street, The Rocks. 9247 0788. aesop.com/au
Smooth is Australia’s premier age positive, size positive brand. Designers Amanda Owens and Catherine McQuade met in the 80s when Cathy’s pop group Deckchairs Overboard played at Amanda’s nightclub, Stranded. They became best friends and in 2000 launched Smooth, designing elegant but funky pieces for women
Bringing you exclusive and hard-to-find brands from around the world, Mecca Cosmetica is your one-stop-shop for all things beauty including cosmetics, skincare, haircare and bodycare. Their friendly staff will help you find products and solutions
PRADA
Founded in 1913, Prada is an Italian fashion house that is always on trend and pushing fashion boundaries. View their latest seasonal collections, as well as luxury handbags and accessories. Shop 3015, Westfield Sydney, 188 Pitt Street, Sydney. 9223 8322. prada.com
36
W HE RE I OCTO B E R 20 18
autentikeco
SiO2nH2O
MECCA COSMETICA
T: 02 9247 9885 55a George St, The Rocks Sydney, Australia www.opalminded.com
AUSTRALIAN OPALS ALTMANN + CHERNY. To discover the mystical
VOLLÉ JEWELLERY—For beautiful Australian Opals,
Australian Opal look no further than the experience
Pearls and Pink diamonds, go where locals love to buy.
and passion of this third-generation family business.
Vollé Jewellery specialise in the most beautiful and
Celebrating their 70-year anniversary in 2018, Altmann
uniquely crafted jewellery for men and women. Their
+ Cherny is internationally recognised as the oldest
experienced pearl, opal and pink diamond specialists offer
Australian opal specialists.
an unparalleled jewellery experience, outstanding quality,
From humble beginnings, two refugees from war-torn
and incredible value for money. At Vollé, their award-
Europe, John Altmann and Rudi Cherny were fascinated
winning designers, highly trained multi lingual sales staff
with Australia’s national gemstone, the Opal. They
and a truly unique interactive video experience will guide
established Altmann + Cherny and became a leading
you through the wonders of Australia’s greatest treasures.
authority on this unique gem. In 1956 an amazing opal
Visit Vollé to learn, without any pressure, from their team
was added to their private collection. Now on permanent
lead by Gemmologists and Diamond graders about the
display at Altmann + Cherny’s Pitt Street showroom, “The
unique qualities of Australian Gemstones in a pleasant
Olympic Australis” is the world’s largest and most valuable
and relaxed atmosphere. They have loose gems and
gem opal as recorded in the Guinness Book of Records.
jewellery to suit every budget, from simple, yet stunning
Today, Altmann + Cherny continues to share the
gifts, to major investment pieces of incredible beauty and
magic of Australian opals. Continuing her grandfather’s
value. Vollé have a strong market presence and superb
passion, Fiona Altmann and her team will share their
international reputation. Every gem purchased comes with
knowledge and help you create memories of Australia to take home that will last for generations. ALTMANN + CHERNY – OPAL SPECIALISTS 18 Pitt Street, (Circular Quay) Sydney.Open Mon–Fri 9.30am–5:30pm, Sat–Sun 10am–4pm. Tel: (02) 9251 9477. altmanncherny.com.au
a certificate of authenticity and an international guarantee. VOLLÉ JEWELLERY 149 York Street, corner 80 Druitt Street (opposite QVB and Town Hall), Sydney. Open Mon–Sat 9.30am–7pm, Sun 10.30am–6.30pm. Tel: (02) 9269 0898. vollejewellery.com
OPAL MINDED is the one and only opal jewellery
GIULIANS—Uniquely Australian. Exceptional jewels
store in Sydney that operates its own mines, and the
of the highest quality designed and handcrafted
only one in the world with an extensive collection
exclusively for you in Giulians’ on-premises studio,
of award-winning opals from Jundah-Opalville in
featuring Australian opals—South Sea pearls—pink and
Queensland. Established in 1989, this luxury boutique
white diamonds. Giulians, established since 1966, has
grew out of the familial opal-mining tradition with
an enviable international reputation. For over 50 years
roots in the opal fields of Coober Pedy in the 1960s.
this family business has devoted several generations to
Nowadays, Opal Minded’s founder and director,
understanding their clients’ needs. This long and personal
John Bernard personally chaperons his opals from
journey has positioned the Giulians name at the forefront
the moment they see the daylight for the first time
of the jewellery industry. Gary Coffey, Giulians’ Creative
in millions of years to the moment you fall in love
Director, embraces each client encounter as if it were his
with them in Sydney. John’s wife, Renata, together
most important to date. His designs are expressions of
with Opal Minded’s talented multilingual team,
unique style and craftsmanship. Housed in one of the finest
delivers bespoke jewellery designs, which turn
showrooms in Sydney, Giulians offers a European style
heads worldwide.
salon with the intimacy, tradition and gracious manner
Opal Minded is conveniently located in the
of a bygone era. In a relaxed and unhurried atmosphere
historical The Rocks precinct. Open seven days a
multilingual family members and staff warmly welcome
week, Opal Minded delights in offering such special
visitors with specialist training. Conveniently located on
services as by-appointment or private shopping
the fringes of the historic ‘Rocks’ district, Giulians is within
experiences, at your request or convenience.
walking distance of Sydney’s five-star hotels.
Trusted by TripAdvisor travellers. OPAL MINDED 55a George Street, The Rocks. Open daily 9am–6.30pm. Tel: (02) 9247 9885. opalminded.com
GIULIANS Four Seasons Hotel, Level 3, 199 George Street, Sydney. Open Mon–Fri 10am–6pm, Sat–Sun 10am–5pm. Tel: (02) 9247 5630. giulians.com.au
37
Shop
SE ARCH THE CIT Y / For more listings, see wheretraveler.com/sydney
best suited to you. Shop 50/52, Level 1, The Strand Arcade, 412–414 George Street, Sydney. 9223 3176. 1 Glenmore Road, Paddington. 9361 4488. mecca.com.au NAPOLEAN PERDIS
Successful Australian cosmetics brand Napolean Perdis has been making cult beauty products for 25 years. Visit one of their concept stores to try the products for yourself and get tips and tricks on how to apply your make-up with their innovative beauty products. 285a Crown Street, Surry Hills. 9380 7593. napoleonperdis.com SEPHORA
Make-up lovers rejoice, Sephora has made its mark in Pitt Street Mall. Favourite brands Benefit Cosmetics, Marc Jacobs Beauty and tarte are available, as well as Sephora Collection, and Rihanna’s own Fenty Beauty. Shop 2043, 188 Pitt Street, Sydney. 9221 5703. sephora.com.au
BOOKS AND MUSIC
DYMOCKS
This Australian book retailer has a huge flagship store on George Street offering three floors of every genre imaginable. There’s a large selection of children’s books downstairs, as well as a variety of stationery and gifts. Relax with a book at the café on the second floor. 424 George Street (between King and Market Street), Sydney. 9235 0155. dymocks.com.au BOOKS KINOKUNIYA
In the heart of the city, stop by the enormous Books Kinokuniya and browse their extensive collection
38
W HE RE I OCTO B E R 20 18
of Manga, graphic novels, art and design books, cookbooks, travel books and children’s literature. This Japanese chain also has a great range of Chinese books and magazines. Level 2, The Galeries, 500 George Street, Sydney. 9262 7996. kinokuniya.com.au RED EYE RECORDS
Head down the stairs to Red Eye Records and enter a music lover’s dream. With a wide range of not only CDs, but also new and classic vinyl records, you are sure to pick up an indie, alternative, rock or pop gem. 143 York Street, (opposite the Queen Victoria Building), Sydney. 9267 7440. redeye.com.au
DEPARTMENT STORES
DAVID JONES
David Jones is the oldest department store in the world that’s still operating under its own name. An Australian institution, its fashion shows are the main highlight of every fashion season. Here is where you will find a range of leading Australian fashion designers like Camilla, Carla Zampatti and Zimmermann. 86–108 Castlereagh Street and 65–77 Market Street, Sydney. 9266 5544. davidjones.com.au MYER
Myer is Australia’s largest department store group. They stock everything from fashion, accessories, beauty and fragrances to electrical goods and homewares. A leader in the fashion and style stakes for over 100 years, they offer a wide range of top fashion brands including Cue, Tony Bianco and Wayne Cooper. 436 George Street, Sydney. 8015 6580. myer.com.au
DUTY FREE
T GALLERIA BY DFS
Sydney’s only luxury duty and tax free destination in Sydney offers over 150 brands to choose from, including exclusive collections and a wide range of local products. This is your trusted source for the finest in fashion and accessories, beauty and fragrances, watches and jewellery and wines and spirits, complementing every aspect of your lifestyle. Bilingual staff are on hand to offer product expertise. 155 George Street, The Rocks. 8243 8666. dfs.com/en/sydney
HOME AND DESIGN
DINOSAUR DESIGNS
The beautifully crafted wares of designers Louise Olsen and Stephen Ormandy are what make Dinosaur Designs so unique. Renowned for their jewellery and homewares crafted from resin, you can be sure to pick up a very special piece. The hardest part is choosing from a huge vibrant, rainbow of colours. Shop 77, Strand Arcade, 412–414 George Street, Sydney. 9223 2953. 339 Oxford Street, Paddington. 9361 3776. dinosaurdesigns.com.au KIKKI.K
For stationery, notebooks, journals and homewares with a Scandinavian touch head to kikki.K. Their beautiful functional designs will bring some joy to your everyday. Check out their travel range of travel diaries, purses, luggage tags and bags. Shop LG24, Queen Victoria Building, 455 George Street, Sydney. 8264 0123. Shop 2036, Level 2, Westfield Sydney, 188 Pitt Street, Sydney. 8098 0147. kikki-k.com
MARIMEKKO
A visit to Finnish design house, Marimekko, is a treat for all design lovers. From their bold colourful designs to their quality crafted homewares, Marimekko are renowned the world over. Pick up delightful design pieces including clothing, shoes, fabric, bags, crockery, glassware, bedding and more. Shop 5A, 388 George Street, Sydney. 9299 0372. marimekko.com MUJI
Japanese store MUJI is homewares heaven. The store is based on three core principles, selection of materials—streamlining of processes and simplification of packages. You’ll find a range of simple yet practical, quality goods including women’s and men’s fashion and accessorises, furniture, electronics, health and beauty products and stationery. Level 1, The Galeries, 500 George Street, Sydney. 8036 4556. muji.com/au/ TOP3 BY DESIGN
Design fiends head to top3 by design for the best-designed products. They stock the top three products in each category (homewares, dining, living, furniture and more) so you are always going to get an amazing product here. 168 Willoughby Road, Crows Nest. 1300 867 333. top3.com.au VICTORIA’S BASEMENT
As the largest retailer in the Queen Victoria Building, Victoria’s Basement has created an inviting shopping bazaar stocking the city’s finest selection of premium giftware, crystal, china,
SE ARCH THE CIT Y / For more listings, see wheretraveler.com/sydney
collectables, homeware and kitchenware at heavily discounted prices. Shop for world-famous brands at their worldfamous basement prices. Basement Level, Queen Victoria Building, 455 George Street, Sydney. 9261 2674. victoriasbasement.com.au
JEWELLERY
ALTMANN + CHERNY
To discover the mystical, unique Australian opal look no further than the experience and passion of this third-generation family business. Celebrating their 70-year anniversary in 2018, Altmann + Cherny is internationally recognised as the oldest Australian opal jewellers. The extraordinary artistic talent of Fiona Altmann, is highlighted in her stunning jewellery designs. The shape and colour of the opal is carefully considered when designing the setting to highlight all the beauty of the opal. 18 Pitt Street, (Circular Quay) Sydney. 9251 9477. altmanncherny.com.au GIULIANS
Visit this family-owned European-style jewellery salon and discover exceptional pieces handcrafted from Australian opals, South Sea pearls and pink, champagne, cognac and white diamonds. Giulians’ highly trained, multilingual staff will welcome you to a relaxed atmosphere that recalls the intimacy and tradition of a bygone era. Giulians offers quality pieces of original design and remarkable beauty. Four Seasons Hotel, Level 3, Shop 4, 199 George Street, Sydney. 98 Harrington Street, Sydney. 9247 5630. giulians.com
THE NATIONAL OPAL COLLECTION
As one of Australia’s leading opal companies, this centre houses the finest collection of opal specimens on display anywhere in the world. A must for overseas visitors interested in Australia’s national gemstone, entry to this museum is free. Walk through the opal mine and watch opals being cut, while the showroom displays the largest range of opals and opal jewellery anywhere in Australia. 60 Pitt Street, Sydney. 9247 6344. nationalopal.com OPAL MINDED
The Opal Minded store was founded in 1989 and grew out of the continuing familial tradition of opal mining of its founder, John Bernard-Benny. Directly from its own mines in Queensland, Opal Minded offers an unmatched collection of mesmerising Jundah-Opalville opals, which have benchmarked Australian boulder opals since the late 19th century. Opal Minded’s classical and contemporary designs captivate and impress. 55a George Street, The Rocks. 9247 9885. opalminded.com ROLEX Rolex watches are renowned for their excellent craftsmanship and technical mechanisms. The Cellini Moonphase watch, with an exclusive display of the phases of the moon, joins the Cellini collection. In a 39mm case in 18ct Everose gold, this model is driven by a self-winding mechanical movement entirely manufactured by Rolex with a patented complication to display the moonphases. The Cellini Moonphase is fitted on
a brown alligator leather strap with a folding Crownclasp in 18ct Everose gold, a first for a Cellini model.
J. Farren-Price, 80 Castlereagh Street, Sydney. 9231 3299. rolex.com TAG HEUER
This prestige watch brand uses the finest Swiss watchmaking traditions to create a quality timepiece. The Sydney TAG Heuer boutique in Pitt Street Mall stocks a wide range of sporting and elegant timepieces. The TAG Heuer Carrera Calibre Heuer 01 is the Swiss watchmaker’s signature Chronograph. With a 45mm steel modular case and a contemporary sports design, this dynamic timepiece features TAG Heuer’s in-house Calibre Heuer 01 movement. Available from TAG Heuer boutiques and online. Cnr Pitt and Market Streets, Sydney. 8223 6200. tagheuer.com.au VOLLÉ JEWELLERY
In the heart of Sydney lies Vollé Jewellery, your passport to the most beautiful Australian opals, South Sea pearls and Argyle pink diamonds that Australia has to offer. Vollé offers an unparalleled jewellery experience for international visitors, who are taken back to the Victorian era as they browse the comprehensive range, with everything from small gifts to precious and rare Australian gems. 149 York Street, (corner of 80 Druitt Street), Sydney. 9269 0898. vollejewellery.com
MARKETS
BONDI MARKETS
Located at Sydney’s famous Bondi Beach, the Bondi Markets are open every Sunday. Supplying
Shop
a combination of local designer fashion, accessories and homewares, you’ll surely pick up a one-of-a-kind piece. 9am–4pm, Sunday. Bondi Beach Public School, Campbell Parade, Bondi Beach. bondimarkets.com.au CARRIAGEWORKS FARMERS MARKET
Located just a 10-minute walk from Redfern Station, this busy farmers’ market is very popular with locals, families and dogs! Meet local and regional food producers in an old rail yard workshop in the historic surrounds of Carriageworks. Buy quality fruit and vegetables, meat, poultry, eggs, cheese and milk as well as bread, baked goods, cakes, pastries and desserts. 8am–1pm, every Saturday, Carriageworks, 245 Wilson Street, Eveleigh. carriageworks.com.au GLEBE MARKETS
Every Saturday within the Glebe Public School grounds you’ll find the vibrant and funky Glebe Markets. Staying true to the area’s artistic aesthetic, the markets have a big focus on second-hand goods and local artisans. Browse around and you’ll find plenty of vintage clothing stalls, handmade resin jewellery, sterling silver jewellery, leather handbags, accessories, candles, soaps and pre-owned DVDs and books. Your inner hippie will love the crystals and dream catchers on offer. 10am–4pm, every Saturday, Glebe Public School, corner Derby Place and Glebe Point Road, Glebe. glebemarkets.com.au
39
Shop
SE ARCH THE CIT Y / For more listings, see wheretraveler.com/sydney
MARRICKVILLE ORGANIC FOOD MARKET
This market is very popular amongst locals, and offers all kinds of produce, with an emphasis on organic fruit and vegetables. Start off by making your way through the fresh food section, then past the hot food stalls, selling everything from dumplings and bagels, to gozleme and gourmet meatballs. Work your way around to the handicrafts section, with wooden goods, second-hand books, jewellery, crystals and a wide range of plants, flowers and succulents. 9am–3pm, every Sunday, Addison Road Community Centre, 142 Addison Road, Marrickville. organicfoodmarkets.com.au
SHOPPING DESTINATIONS
BIRKENHEAD POINT OUTLET CENTRE
Sydney’s original and largest outlet centre is situated just 10 minutes from the Sydney CBD by the Shopper Hopper from Circular Quay or Harbourside, bus, taxi, car or water taxi and offering up to 70% off the regular retail prices. Birkenhead Point is home to over 120 of your favourite national and international brands including Hugo Boss, Oroton, Nike, Country Road, Calvin Klein, Nine West, Polo Ralph Lauren, Sheridan, Levi’s, Peter Alexander, The Academy Brand, Hype DC, Tommy Hilfiger and Brooks Brothers. 19 Roseby Street, Drummoyne. 9812 8800. birkenheadpoint.com.au BROADWAY SYDNEY
Conveniently located near Central Station and the trendy inner-west suburb of Glebe, Broadway Sydney houses a range of fashion,
40
W HE RE I OCTO B E R 20 18
beauty and homewares stores, great dining and restaurant options, as well as supermarkets, banks, post office, Hoyts Cinemas and major stores, such as Target, Kmart, Aldi and Coles. 1 Bay Street, Ultimo. 8398 5620. broadwaysydney.com.au CENTRAL PARK
Sydney’s downtown shopping centre, a multilevel vertical mall, features everything from fashion (Adidas, Hype DC, Glue) and homewares (Daiso), through to dining and living. Don’t miss the amazing vertical garden and the new 14 screen Palace Central Cinemas. 28 Broadway, Chippendale. 8096 9900. centralparksydney.com THE GALERIES
This boutique shopping haven is where shoppers go to find one-off pieces. The slick minimalist design features four levels and a central piazza area. Speciality shops include Books Kinokuniya, Sydney’s largest global bookstore; MUJI, JB Hi-Fi, The Body Shop and fashion stores including 124 Shoes, Incu and Carhartt. 500 George Street, Sydney. 9265 6800. thegaleries.com HARBOURSIDE SHOPPING CENTRE
Harbourside is located on the water’s edge of Darling Harbour, with stores specialising in one-off pieces from local designers and artists, and best of all, Harbourside is open until 9pm every day. With more than 30 eateries, there’s also a mouth-watering array of international cuisine with Eat Street and the Promenade Eatery offering everything
from a quick snack to an indulgent dinner. 2–10 Darling Drive, Darling Harbour. 8398 5700. harbourside.com.au PITT STREET MALL
Pitt Street Mall, located in the centre of the CBD, nestled beneath the iconic Sydney Tower, is the heart of Sydney shopping. Linking shoppers with Westfield Sydney, The Strand, MidCity, flagship fashion boutiques and major department stores like Myer, it is a destination in itself. Pitt Street, Sydney. pittstreetmall.com.au QUEEN VICTORIA BUILDING
Over 100 years old, this stately icon fills an entire city block. Housing some of Sydney’s most stylish fashion boutiques, art, jewellery and antique stores, restaurants and cafés on five levels, you can experience Sydney’s chic shopping all at the QVB. 455 George Street, Sydney. 9265 6800. qvb.com.au THE ROCKS
Wander the historic cobblestoned laneways and charming streets of The Rocks and discover a hidden world of funky boutiques and luxury brands. The Rocks is the home of bespoke fashion where you’ll find something that’s a perfect fit just for you. You can buy unique jewellery, clothing, Australian art, photography and authentic Indigenous artefacts. George Street and surrounds, The Rocks. therocks.com STRAND ARCADE
This iconic structure is part of Sydney’s history, with fashion, jewellery and accessories on display. The Strand is home to Australian designer
fashion boutiques including Alex Perry, Akira and Lover, while jewellery stores include Dinosaur Designs, Mondial by Nadia Neuman and Victoria Buckley Jewellery. 412–414 George Street, Sydney. 9265 6800. strandarcade.com.au WESTFIELD BONDI JUNCTION
If you’re a lover of fashion, then take a short train journey to Bondi Junction in the Eastern Suburbs, where Westfield have created a fashion mecca. Over several levels, you will find the best of local and international shoes, fashion, accessories, beauty, homewares and food. 500 Oxford Street, Bondi Junction. 9947 8000. westfield.com.au/ bondijunction WESTFIELD SYDNEY
Westfield Sydney offers over 300 fashion, lifestyle and food speciality stores, delivering an unrivalled shopping experience in the heart of the CBD. The centre is divided into a series of distinct precincts, such as luxury, urban, Australian and international designers. Stores include TOD’s, Gucci, Hugo Boss, Zara, CHANEL, Ignazia, Carla Zampatti, Secrets, Mulberry, Prada, Zimmermann and more. Corner Pitt Street Mall and Market Street, Sydney. 8236 9200. westfield.com.au/sydney WORLD SQUARE
Offering fresh and prepared food, a unique selection of fashion, homewares, lifestyle items and services with over 90 speciality retailers, World Square is located on the CBD’s bustling George Street and spans three levels
SE ARCH THE CIT Y / For more listings, see wheretraveler.com/sydney
of an entire city block. Enjoy lunch in the relaxing Open Air Square, which is surrounded by restaurants and cafés. 644 George Street, Sydney. 8275 6777. worldsquare.com.au
SPAS & SALONS
CHI, THE SPA
Located at the elegant Shangri-La Hotel Sydney, CHI, The Spa focuses on traditional wellbeing practices, with a focus on Australia with such treatments as the Wattleseed Reawakening, a full-body exfoliation. Shangri-La Hotel Sydney, 176 Cumberland Street, The Rocks. 9250 6032. shangri-la.com/sydney/ shangrila/health-leisure/ chi-the-spa/
THE DARLING SPA
This exclusive Sydney spa is home to 11 treatment rooms where you will be pampered from head to toe. Using international brands like La Prairie and ESPA, The Darling Spa also features a heated Moroccan Hammam chamber. Level 2, The Darling, 80 Pyrmont Street, Pyrmont. 9657 8088. star.com.au/ sydney/hotels-and-spa/ the-darling/spa THE DAY SPA BY CHUAN
You’ll find this serene innercity oasis at the bottom of The Langham hotel. With divine facials, relaxing massages and body wraps on offer, you’ll also have use of the Jacuzzi, steam rooms and the luxurious 25-metre indoor pool.
Sub-Basement Level, The Langham Sydney, 89–113 Kent Street, Sydney. 8248 5250. langhamhotels.com/ en/the-langham/sydney/ wellness/the-day-spa/ ENDOTA SPA FOUR SEASONS
Centrally located at the Four Seasons, endota spa offers six treatment rooms and a blissful range of massages. Be tempted by their heavenly spa packages and all-Australian treatments. Four Seasons Hotel Sydney, 199 George Street, Sydney. 9250 3100. fourseasons.com/ sydney/spa/ THE SPA AT PARK HYATT SYDNEY
From a native clay and hot oil massage to an Australian
Shop
uplift, The Spa at Park Hyatt Sydney prides itself on their holistic treatments. For a full day of bliss, try the Australian Awakening package. Park Hyatt Sydney, 7 Hickson Road, The Rocks. 9256 1633. hyatt.com/corporate/spas/ The-Spa-Sydney/en/ home.html
TECHNOLOGY
APPLE
Sydney’s flagship Apple store on George Street is a three-level mecca for techheads. You’ll find the latest models of iPhones, iPads, Macbooks and more, as well as the Genius Bar for any technical difficulties that might pop up on your travels. 367 George Street, Sydney. 8083 9400. apple.com/au JB HI-FI
This home entertainment retailer is the place to pick up the latest release music, movies and more. From Apple products to gaming, TVs, DVDs, CDs and even old-school records, JB Hi-Fi is a one-stop entertainment shop. Westfield Sydney Shopping Centre, Store 6010, Level 6, Corner Pitt and Market Streets, Sydney. 9928 7000. Strand Arcade, 412–414 George Street, Sydney. 9928 7200. jbhifi.com.au MICROSOFT
Pitt Street Mall is home to Microsoft’s flagship Sydney store. You’ll find all the latest Microsoft products here, plus get help with one-on-one sessions from a Microsoft expert, or attend a workshop. Cnr Pitt Street Mall and Market Street, Sydney. 8023 8608. microsoft.com
41
Art Desert Legend—Tommy Watson “Desert Legend—Tommy Watson” is a celebration of life and tjukurrpa (dreaming). This curation of masterpieces and museum quality works, includes many previously unexhibited works, showcasing the soaring talent of this recently deceased desert master. Never before have so many of Watson’s major, seminal works been exhibited in one space. Artworks include the groundbreaking 2013 piece featured in The Australian newspaper and many more. 13 October–10 November, Kate Owen Gallery, 680 Darling Street, Rozelle. 9555 5283. kateowengallery.com
4A Centre for Contemporary Asian Art (4A) presents a dynamic program of Asian contemporary art. With a focus on art that addresses the Asian-Australian experience, as well as fostering an understanding between different cultures, 4A is a hidden arts gem near the city’s Chinatown precinct. 181–187 Hay Street, Sydney. 9212 0380. 4a.com.au ABORIGINAL ART GALLERIES
Aboriginal Art Galleries is Sydney’s largest collaborative of Indigenous art galleries, presenting over 140 artists from which to choose. They have on offer Aboriginal artworks, didgeridoos, sculptures, totem poles and other artefacts. View a large variety of beautiful affordable or investment artworks by Dorothy Napangardi, Walangkura Napanangka, Minnie Pwerle and Kudditji Kngwarreye. Opera Quays, Shop 13, 2 East Circular Quay. Queen Victoria Building,
42
W HE RE I OCTO B E R 20 18
Shop 47–51, Level 2, 455 George Street, Sydney. 1300 385 862. aboriginalartgalleries.com.au AMBUSH GALLERY
aMBUSH Gallery is an award-winning gallery space that programs an innovative collection of artworks and art activations. The exhibitions engage and entertain audiences, whilst providing sustainable futures for emerging and established artists. 4a James Street, Waterloo. 8399 0707. ambushgallery.com ARTSPACE
Delivering an array of art that challenges both the ideas of our times and the audience, Artspace is located at the historic Gunnery building at Woolloomooloo. Artspace presents a range of exhibitions and public programs that deepen our understanding of contemporary art. 43–51 Cowper Wharf Road, Woolloomooloo. 9356 0555. artspace.org.au BRETT WHITELEY STUDIO
The Brett Whiteley Studio was the workplace and
home of Australian artist, Brett Whiteley (1939–92). The studio is complete with his unfinished paintings, art equipment and collections of reference books. There are changing exhibitions of the artist’s works including paintings, drawings, sculpture and graphics. Also on display is memorabilia such as photographs, objects, postcards, furniture, his music collection and sketchbooks. 2 Raper Street, Surry Hills. 9225 1881. artgallery.nsw.gov.au/ brett-whiteley-studio KATE OWEN GALLERY
Located 10 minutes from the CBD and spread over three levels, this gallery stocks a huge range of contemporary Indigenous art of note including pieces from Gloria Petyarre, Minnie Pwerle and Emily Kngwarreye, and a host of other accomplished and emerging artists. Offering personalised service, their friendly staff are on hand to assist with any queries you may have. 680 Darling Street, Rozelle. 9555 5283. kateowengallery.com
NORMAN LINDSAY GALLERY
Located at Faulconbridge in the beautiful Blue Mountains, the Norman Lindsay Gallery and Museum celebrates the life and work of Australian artist and writer Norman Lindsay (1879-1969), best known for his classic children’s book “The Magic Pudding”. Explore the landscaped gardens, then head inside the historic sandstone cottage which is now home to an exhibition of Lindsay’s work, including watercolours, sculptures, and memorabilia. 14 Norman Lindsay Crescent, Faulconbridge. 4751 1067. normanlindsay.com.au ROSLYN OXLEY9 GALLERY
This well-known contemporary art gallery is owned by Roslyn Oxley. The gallery is a strong supporter of modern art displaying international and Australian artists. Artists from past exhibitions include Brook Andrew, Del Kathryn Barton, Fiona Hall and Patricia Piccinini. 8 Soudan Lane (off Hampden Street), Paddington. 9331 1919. roslynoxley9.com.au
“MY COUNTRY”, TOMMY WATSON, 91 X 122CM, COURTESY KATE OWEN GALLERY.
ART GALLERIES
4A CENTRE FOR CONTEMPORARY ASIAN ART
kate owen gallery
c o n t e m p o r a r y
a b o r i g i n a l
Art
a r t
WHITE RABBIT GALLERY
The White Rabbit Gallery is home to an impressive collection of contemporary Chinese art. Founded by Kerr and Judith Neilson, it focuses on works produced after the year 2000. There are two new exhibitions hung each year, and admission to the gallery is free. 30 Balfour Street, Chippendale. 8399 2867. whiterabbitcollection.org ‘Ngayuku Ngura (My Country)’ by Tommy Watson (152 x 244 cm)
tommy watson - desert legend 13 october - 10 november
MUSEUMS
ART GALLERY OF NEW SOUTH WALES
The Art Gallery of New South Wales is one of Australia’s leading and most popular museums, offering five levels of art. Experience the extensive collection of Australian art, Aboriginal art, the Asian wing with works from China, Japan and South7:53 pmEast Asia and see European art from the Renaissance to Victorian times. Art Gallery Road, The Domain, Sydney. Special exhibitions may be ticketed. 1800 679 278. artgallery.nsw.gov.au
celebrating country and culture of a desert legend an exhibition featuring previously unexhibited masterpieces and museum quality works open 7 days 10am - 6pm | free worldwide delivery (rolled)
680 Darling Street, Rozelle +61 (0)2 9555 5283 www.kateowengallery.com | info@kateowengallery.com
WHERE Draft 1 October KOG TOMMY.indd 1
18/9/18
ABORIGINAL ART GALLERIES ABORIGINAL ART GALLERIES Tarisse King, Big Water 2016, acrylic on linen, 90x150cm.
Barbara Weir, My Mother’s Country, 124x180cm.
Sarita King, Lightning, 120x180cm.
ABORIGINAL ART GALLERIES
Tarisse & Sarrita King ‘My Country/Languages of the Earth’ 120X180CM The Finest Collection Of Aboriginal Art & Artefacts In Sydney
THE FINEST COLLECTION OF ABORIGINAL THE COLLECTION OF inABORIGINAL Aboriginal Art Galleries showcase one ofFINEST the Artefacts and Didgeridoos the country. In fact, ARTFINEST &artworks ARTEFACTS IN&SYDNEY largest collection of byCOLLECTION both emerging our staff OF are trained to make recommendations THE ABORIGINAL ART ARTEFACTS IN SYDNEY Tarisse & Sarrita King ‘My Country/Languages of the Earth’ 120X180CM
SARRITA KING ‘OUR LAND’ 90X120CM
and internationally renowned intwo galleries Aboriginal Art Galleries offeres aIndigenous variety of artists and teach the techniques With heart ofof playing a didgeridoo. Aboriginal Art Galleries offeres a located variety ofin the With two galleries located in the heart of crafts, artefacts and centrally didgeridoos alongside the city choosing a piece art the weither for Australia. Our two, located galleries Allofgoods are packed and for crafts, artefacts and didgeridoos alongside cityprofessionally choosing a piece of art weither artworks showcasing both emerging and investmentboth or otherwise is simple, our or otherwise is simple, our artworks showcasing emerging and investment also feature a renowned large array of the finest can be shipped worldwide. Aboriginal Art Galleries offeres ofstaffaboriginal With two galleries located in the heart of internationally aboriginalinternationally artists. a variety informed can help with your selection. renowned artists. informed staff can help with your selection. SPRING SALE:
ART & ARTEFACTS IN SYDNEY
crafts, artefacts and didgeridoos alongside the city choosing a piece of art weither for Items Over $300 Receive 15% Off, artworks emerging and investment or otherwise isOpera simple,Quays, our Shop 47,showcasing Level 2, bothItems Over $1000 Receive Off, Opera Quays Quays Shop 47, Level 2 47, Level 2 20% internationally renowned aboriginal Shop artists. informed staff can help with Opera your selection. Queen Items Over $5000 Receive Off. Shop Shop13, 13,22East East Queen Victoria Shop 13,25% 2 East QueenVictoria Victoria ConditionsCircular Apply. Building CircularQuay Quay Building Quay Circular Building
Shop 47, Level 2
Opera Quays
____ www.aboriginalartgalleries.com.au 2 East ____ Queen Victoria ____ www.aboriginalartgalleries.com.au ____ Shop 13, ––––––– www.aboriginalartgalleries.com.au –––––––
Circular Quay Building ____ www.aboriginalartgalleries.com.au ____
MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART AUSTRALIA
The MCA is Australia’s Museum of Contemporary Art, dedicated to exhibiting, collecting and interpreting the work of today’s artists from across Australia and around the world. With a continually changing program of exhibitions and stimulating events there’s always something new and inspiring to see. 140 George Street, The Rocks. Daily 10am–5pm except Wednesday 10am–9pm. Free admission. Special exhibitions may be ticketed. 9245 2400. mca.com.au
43
Explore New Gold Lunch Cruise on the Harbour Captain Cook Cruises has released an exciting seasonal Gold Lunch cruise, showcasing some of Australia’s finest food and wine producers. Each cruise will feature a mouthwatering six course menu, paired with sophisticated wines and amazing harbour views. The AQUA TONIC cruise will be held on Sunday 28 October and will celebrate Australian fish and wine with a six-course menu featuring Huon Salmon and Ocean Trout and five wines selected from Tyrrell’s Pinot Brut, Semillon, Chardonnay, Shiraz and Tawn range. 28 October, cruise departs 12 noon from King St Wharf No.1, returning at 3.30pm. 9206 1111. captaincook.com.au
CRUISES
CAPTAIN COOK CRUISES
Wherever you are going Avis will help get you there with a wide range of vehicles available to hire. For a stressfree car rental experience, you can rely on Avis. 136 333. avis.com.au
Discover Sydney’s most famous icon—its beautiful Harbour—on a Captain Cook Cruise. With a range of award-winning dining and sightseeing cruises, plus Hop On Hop Off ferries up to 11 destinations and special event cruises, you won’t miss a minute of what Sydney’s amazing harbour has to offer. Their Barangaroo Fast Ferry is a new direct service between Manly and Sydney’s newest and most exciting city precinct—Barangaroo. No.6 Wharf, Circular Quay. King St Wharf 1, and Pier 26, Darling Harbour. 9206 1111. captaincook.com.au
BRUNEL
Brunel Worldwide Chauffeur Drive is a boutique luxury transport service. Capture the exciting atmosphere of Sydney in the air-conditioned comfort of a Brunel chauffeured car. They offer personalised touring around Sydney and its environs, including airport transfers. Enjoy luxury limos in Sydney, with total security, privacy and confidentiality. 1300 855 955. brunelchauffeurdrive.com.au EAST COAST CAR RENTALS
With great online deals and low rates, East Coast Car Rentals make booking a hire car easy. They have new or near-new models available from a variety of reputable manufacturers including Hyundai, Toyota and Honda. 151 William Street, Darlinghurst. 200 O’Riordan Street, Mascot. 1800 EAST COAST (1800 327 826). eastcoastcarrentals.com.au
44
W HE RE I OCTO B E R 20 18
FANTASEA
Fantasea Cruising offers a wide variety of harbour cruise experiences, from hop-on hop-off cruises, to morning tea cruises to water taxis. Enjoy a variety of classic Aussie touches on the Sydney Harbour Snapshot Cruise. You’ll get up close and personal with various iconic sites in the harbour. 1800 326 822. fantasea.com.au
MY FAST FERRY
My Fast Ferry is the perfect way to explore Sydney, and with so many options available there is sure to be something for everyone. Book online at myfastferry. com.au or purchase tickets directly via the MyFastFerry app. The EcoHopper 24-hour hop-on hop-off sightseeing pass visits popular harbour locations; Manly, Darling Harbour, Watsons Bay, Taronga Zoo, Fort Denison, Quarantine Station, Circular Quay, Rose Bay, Pyrmont Bay and Milson’s Point. If you are heading to Manly, catch the fast ferry, it only takes 18 minutes and services depart every 20 minutes from Wharf 2. Harbour Sightseeing cruise departs Wharf 6, Circular Quay and to Manly departs Wharf 2, Circular Quay. 9583 1199. myfastferry.com.au SYDNEY FISH MARKET FERRY
Ferries depart every weekend between 9am and 5pm between Sydney Fish Market and Barangaroo, King Street Wharf No.1. The market is the largest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere with a fantastic array of seafood,
wines, bakery and gourmet deli items which can all be enjoyed from a waterside picnic table or restaurant. Tickets from $9 per person. 9206 1111. captaincook.com.au WHALE WATCHING SYDNEY
Whale watching season is here. The three-hour discovery cruise on Ocean Dreaming II will take you on Sydney’s largest and best purpose-built whale watching boat, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride over three levels with 360-degree wrap around spacious decks, perfect for spotting whales from all angles. The two-hour Adventure Cruise on Totally Wild takes you on a purpose-built, 27-seat high speed craft, perfect for thrill seekers wanting an adrenalin rush. Travel with the best for less with the Whale Watching Discovery Cruise Combo. Including the three-hour Discovery Whale Watching Cruise, a 24-hour EcoHopper Pass, the Manly Fast Ferry, three different harbour ferry services plus professional photos taken onboard a whale watching cruise, there’s no better deal
CAPTAIN COOK CRUISES.
CAR RENTALS
AVIS
Explore for the full harbour and ocean experience. 9583 1199. whalewatchingsydney.com.au ZOO EXPRESS
FROM
45
$ Whales, Sightseeing & Dining
FERRY
SS & EN PA
zoo FROM
Y TO TR
2-DAY
Sydney’s best sightseeing cruise “Harbour Story” 10.00am & 2.15pm. Award winning Lunch, High Tea and Dinner Cruises daily. Whale Watching Cruises - whale guarantee!
NEW
FISH MARKET
59*
$
The Zoo Express makes getting to Taronga Zoo fun, as it lets you relax and enjoy the scenic feast of the Harbour. The Zoo Express includes your return rocket ferry with commentary, entry to Taronga Zoo and Sky Safari cable car, leaving from Darling Harbour, Watsons Bay or Circular Quay. The Zoo Express tickets are available from Captain Cook Cruises and depart approximately every 30 to 45 minutes. 9206 1111. captaincook.com.au
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION For trip planning, routes and maps for all public transport in Sydney, including trains, buses, light rail and ferries visit transportnsw.info BUSES
*Conditions apply
2-Day Pass & 11 stops from $49 Departures every 30-60 minutes between • Circular Quay • Manly • Taronga Zoo • ICC Sydney • Barangaroo • Darling Harbour • Fish Market • Watsons Bay • Luna Park • Fort Denison • Shark Island Call 9206 1111. Visit Circular Quay Wharf No.6, Darling Harbour Pier 26, Manly Wharf & Barangaroo King St Wharf No.1.
captaincook.com.au BEST DEALS ONLINE
There are major bus terminals at Wynyard Station (York Street), the Queen Victoria Building (York Street), and Railway Square. Buses operate right across Sydney, with priority routes in the Sydney Central Business District (CBD) along Elizabeth Street, Castlereagh Street, Park Street, Druitt Street, Clarence Street and York Street. To travel on public transport in Sydney, you will need an Opal Card. Don’t forget to tap on and tap off! transportnsw.info FERRIES
Circular Quay is the main ferry hub in Sydney with ferries departing from a number of wharves. From Circular Quay you can travel by ferry to numerous
45
Explore
SE ARCH THE CIT Y / For more listings, see wheretraveler.com/sydney
tourist destinations including Cockatoo Island, Barangaroo, Taronga Zoo, Watsons Bay and Manly. transportnsw.info LIGHT RAIL
The Sydney Light Rail network links the hub of Central Station with Sydney’s inner-west via Pyrmont, Glebe, Leichhardt North, and Lewisham West right through to Dulwich Hill. Sydney Light Rail is a comfortable, convenient and efficient mode of transport. Tap on and off with your Opal Card when you use light rail. The network is currently being extended through the CBD. Road closures and diversions are in place. transportnsw.info OPAL CARD
Opal Card is an electronic ‘smart card’ ticketing system used throughout the public transport system in Sydney, the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Hunter Valley, Illawarra and the Southern Highlands, which allows easy and convenient travel across the ferry, rail, light rail and bus networks. Simply tap on at the start of your journey before you board, then tap off as you are leaving. Opal Cards can be purchased from various retailers throughout Sydney. opal.com.au TRAINS
Sydney Trains has eight lines, each colour coded for easy identification. In the City, trains run through the City Circle line from Central on to Town Hall, Wynyard, Circular Quay, St James, Museum and back to Central. Sydney Trains operate throughout the Sydney metropolitan area.
46
W HE RE I OCTO B E R 20 18
NSW TrainLink serves more than 480 destinations by train and coach throughout NSW. Intercity trains link the South Coast, Southern Highlands, Blue Mountains, Central Coast and Hunter regions of NSW. Regional trains and coaches link the Southern, Western, North Western and North Coast regions of NSW as well as linking Canberra, Melbourne and Brisbane. transportnsw.info
TOURS
AAT KINGS
AAT Kings bring Sydney and surrounds to life with a range of half day and full day tours. Discover the majestic Blue Mountains, explore the scenic Hunter Valley wine region, visit Australia’s capital Canberra or see Sydney’s fabulous city sights. You’ll enjoy stress-free travel, luxury air-conditioned coaches, expert commentary and all the must-see highlights. Their friendly and engaging Driver Guides will enhance your experience with stories, local knowledge and a sense of fun. AAT Kings also offer selected free hotel pick-ups so all you need to do is relax and enjoy your day. 1300 228 546. aatkings.com BONZA BIKE TOURS
For a guided bike tour around Sydney head to Bonza Bike Tours. It is a fun, safe way to get around, with their guides showing you where to go. Try the Sydney Classic tour to take in all the city’s famous sights, or perhaps try the Sydney Harbour Bridge ride and ride across this marvellous icon. 30 Harrington Street, The Rocks. 9247 8800. bonzabiketours.com
SEGWAY TOURS
Take a guided Segway Tour at Newington Armory in Sydney Olympic Park. Zoom around the historic grounds of the Armory for a fun outdoor adventure. You can cruise up and around on paths, through grassed areas, around old bunkers and heritage-listed buildings and travel across a variety of different terrain. Newington Armory, Sydney Olympic Park. 1300 85 99 83. segwaytours.com.au SYDNEY CRICKET GROUND TOUR
Sporting fans will love the Sydney Cricket Ground Guided Walking Tour which takes you all around the famed Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), Allianz Stadium and SCG Museum. It is available to the public most days of the year (some blockout days apply when events are on) and caters to all sports lovers. You’ll get to visit the television commentary box, get your chance to be a journalist in the press rooms, and take in the incredible views from the top of the grandstands. Then you’ll get a fascinating look into the history of this marvellous venue at the SCG Museum. Mon–Sat at 10am. Tours depart from the Venue Services Office, Gate A, Allianz Stadium forecourt, Driver Avenue, Moore Park. scgtour.com.au SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE TOURS
Designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon and completed in 1973, the Sydney Opera House is one of the world’s most famous structures. You can now see inside the world’s most recognisable sails on a variety of Sydney Opera House tours. The Sydney
Opera House Tour is a classic choice, and it runs daily, offering an up-close look inside this architectural gem. Visit areas off-limits to the public and uncover the stories and history behind this special building. The Sydney Opera House Tour is also available in different languages including Mandarin, Japanese, German, French, Spanish and Korean. Explore behind-the-scenes on the Backstage Tour. Walk through the performer’s rehearsal spaces and hear insider secrets. The Taste of the Opera House tour only operates monthly but is a foodie’s dream as you wine and dine your way around the Sydney Opera House’s restaurants and bars, including Portside Sydney and Bennelong. Visit the Welcome Centre or Box Office to book tours. Sydney Opera House. Tours leave every half-hour from 9am–5pm daily. 9250 7250. sydneyoperahouse.com/tours THE ROCKS GHOST TOURS
For a fun, spooky, and educational time try a Rocks Ghost Tour. Their adult tours operate every night of the week, and you’ll learn about the hauntings, hangings and murders that have occurred in the area. Beware of strange sightings and spiritual encounters. Tours nightly. 9241 1283. ghosttours.com.au THE ROCKS WALKING TOUR
Explore the history of Sydney on The Rocks Walking Tour. These tours are both entertaining and informative as you walk the cobblestoned streets of The Rocks and learn about its unique past from your friendly guides. You’ll get to wander down hidden alleyways, discover the
SE ARCH THE CIT Y / For more listings, see wheretraveler.com/sydney
VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES The city’s Visitor Information Centres are a one-stop shop for all your visitor information needs. Staff are on hand to assist visitors with maps, brochures and other information regarding activities and travel around Sydney and New South Wales, including a free booking service.
SYDNEY VISITOR CENTRE
Centrally located in the historic Rocks area, Sydney Visitor Centre is a great starting point when exploring The Rocks. Shop 1–2, The Rocks Centre, Corner Playfair and Argyle Streets, The Rocks. Daily 9.30am–5.30pm (except Christmas Day and Good Friday). 8273 0000. australianvisitorcentres.com.au/nsw HELLO MANLY INFORMATION AND BOOKING CENTRE
As soon as you step off the ferry in Manly, head to the Hello Manly Information and Booking Centre for advice on what to do, where to go and how to spend your time in this coastal town.
Manly Wharf Forecourt, Manly. Daily Mon–Fri 9am– 5pm, weekends 10am–4pm (except Christmas Day). 9976 1430. hellomanly.com.au
WATER TAXIS Water taxis are an easy and convenient way to crisscross the harbour, whether heading out on a day trip, or needing a safe way to return home after a night out. H2O MAXI TAXIS
Professional and reliable on-time service awaits at H20 Maxi Taxis. If you have a large or small group, this is a safe and fast way to transport them across the harbour. 1300 420 829. h2owatertaxis.com.au
WATER TAXIS COMBINED
Water Taxis Combined pick up and drop off from any location on Sydney Harbour, including ferry wharves and public pontoons. They offer competitive pricing, and a wide fleet of boats, perfect for any occasion and any size group. 9555 8888. watertaxis.com.au YELLOW WATER TAXIS
Fantasea Cruising operate the Yellow Water Taxis on Sydney Harbour. They offer a large and safe fleet of yellow water taxis to get you around the harbour, whether you are in need of a harbour shuttle or a sightseeing cruise. 1800 326 822. yellowwatertaxis.com.au
24HR HOP ON HOP OFF
HARBOUR
SIGHTSEEING
SEE IT ALL WITH MY FAST FERRY
BEST 24HR PASS!
Most inclusions, highest frequency, longest operating hours
CIRCULAR QUAY MANLY TARONGA ZOO WATSONS BAY DARLING HARBOUR ROSE BAY FORT DENISON NORTH SYDNEY PYRMONT BAY Q-STATION
MY FAST FERRY 24 HR HOP ON HOP OFF PASS includes free travel on Manly Fast Ferry + more. 5 separate services on 1 ticket. Save even more with Taronga Zoo or Sydney Aquarium Combo Pass 1HR HARBOUR CRUISE FOR ONLY
$15
FREE
PHOTOS
25 years of experience 99% success rate with whales guaranteed or a free return cruise.
10 STOPS $97 VALUE FOR ONLY
$50
VENUE ENTRY + 24hr PASS
$59
2HR HARBOUR CRUISE FOR ONLY
$30
Show this ad onboard 3hr Discovery Cruise and receive free photos!
PHONE
CHECK ONLINE FOR DISCOUNTS
WHALEWATCHINGSYDNEY.COM.AU
02 9583 1199
360°
MYFASTFERRY.COM.AU ONLINE BOOKINGS TIMETABLES
360° Walk Around Decks Easily walk from side to side for uninterrupted viewing.
14 20
2015
20 16
2018
HALL of
17 20
Custom Built Whale Watching Vessels We have the newest, largest & fastest boats in Sydney.
201 3
nooks and crannies, and understand the living history and heritage of Australia’s first British settlement. Departing daily at 10.30am and 1.30pm. Shop 4a, Clocktower Square, corner Argyle and Harrington Streets, The Rocks. 9247 6678. rockswalkingtours.com.au
Explore
FAME
Only 15min from Circular Quay to the Open Ocean Minimum time in the harbour - Maximum time with whales.
47
Sights Plants with Bite at The Calyx In planning for over 18 months is the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney’s latest exhibition at The Calyx, Plants with Bite. It will feature the beautiful but deadly carnivorous plants of the world including the snapping “Venus Fly Trap”, “Pitcher Plants” waiting to drown their prey and the dainty Drosera waiting to grab a bite to eat with ‘sticky fingers’. Sink your teeth into a free floral display on carnivorous plants, alongside a series of educational and spooky ‘feeding days’ for kids, events to tantalise all your senses and of course, the creepy and cunning, carnivorous plants that will satisfy your hunger for learning about the floral food chain. From 1 October, The Calyx at the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, Mrs Macquaries Road, Sydney. 9231 8111. rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au
BONDI BEACH
Australia’s most famous beach is popular no matter what time of the year it is. The golden sands and gentle blue waves are great for swimming and learning to surf. Walk along the shore, take a dip in the water or relax on the sand—Bondi Beach is Sydney at its best. Campbell Parade, Bondi. COCKATOO ISLAND
Cockatoo Island is a UNESCO World Heritage island located in the middle of Sydney Harbour. Explore the island through its numerous walking paths and tunnels, and learn more about the convict history of this former ship building dockyard. You can even stay overnight in the campground. Cockatoo Island, Sydney Harbour. 8969 2100. cockatooisland.gov.au DARLING HARBOUR
This waterside precinct is renowned for its vast array of restaurants, shops and tourist attractions including SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo,
48
W HE RE I OCTO B E R 20 18
Madame Tussauds Sydney, the Powerhouse Museum, Australian National Maritime Museum and a children’s playground. From the city, walk down Market or Bathurst Streets and across the footbridge. 9240 8500. darlingharbour.com FEATHERDALE WILDLIFE PARK
Located in Sydney’s west, Featherdale Wildlife Park is a hands-on wildlife experience with a focus on animal education. From koalas, kangaroos and wombats, through to snakes, crocodiles, lizards, birds and more, you’ll get to see so many animals up close. You can even have a personal encounter with a koala, owl, reptile or dingo. 217–229 Kildare Road, Doonside. Daily 8am–5pm. 9622 1644. featherdale.com.au THE GOODS LINE
The Goods Line is Sydney’s answer to New York’s High Line. Running from Railway Square near Central Station, through to Darling Harbour along an old freight railway corridor, the pathway is an urban retreat. Walk past the
University of Technology Sydney’s architectural masterpiece, the Frank Gehry-designed Dr Chau Chak Wing Building, known to locals as the “paper bag” building. Along the way take a seat at one of the bright communal picnic tables, or have a fun game of table tennis. From Railway Square, Ultimo to Darling Harbour. HYDE PARK BARRACKS MUSEUM
Hyde Park Barracks is a significant convict site in Australia, and has had World Heritage list status since 2010. The Hyde Park Barracks stood at the centre of the world’s largest and most diverse system of transported convict labour. More than 50,000 convicts passed through its gates from 1819 to 1848. In 1984, the Barracks opened as a museum, and today, you can learn the stories of the thousands of men and women who lived and worked here. Queens Square, Macquarie Street, Sydney. Daily 10am–5pm. 8239 2311. sydneylivingmuseums.com.au/ hyde-park-barracks-museum
LUNA PARK SYDNEY
Luna Park is Sydney’s top entertainment precinct of many faces! Bring the family and enjoy a day of fun on The Wild Mouse—Sydney’s favourite rollercoaster, the ferris wheel, Coney Island, mirror maze or the numerous other rides and attractions. 1 Olympic Drive, Milsons Point. Opening times vary, check online. 9922 6644. lunaparksydney.com MADAME TUSSAUDS SYDNEY
The world-famous wax attraction Madame Tussauds Sydney allows you to get up close and personal with over 70 of the world’s iconic celebrities and our very own Aussie stars! With nine exciting, interactive zones Madame Tussauds combines glitz and glamour with incredible history. Aquarium Wharf, Darling Harbour. Daily 10am–6pm. madametussauds.com.au/ sydney/en/ MANLY
One of Sydney’s favourite beachside suburbs is just a 30-minute ferry ride from Circular Quay. The trip on the
FROG ON SARRACENIA FLAVA, PHOTO: GREG BOURKE.
ATTRACTIONS & SIGHTS
SE ARCH THE CIT Y / For more listings, see wheretraveler.com/sydney
Manly Ferry is spectacular and once in Manly, there is so much to do. Take a surf lesson, go for a dip, hire a bike and ride along the beachfront or stroll around to beautiful Shelly Beach and go for a snorkel. Then there are the many restaurants and bars in which to sit back and relax by the seaside. Manly. 9976 1430. hellomanly.com.au
from The Rocks’ convict past at The Rocks Discovery Museum. Check out the markets at the weekends, then head to one of the many restaurants and bars in the area. Be sure to drop by one of The Rocks’ historic pubs for a drink or two with locals. The Rocks. therocks.com
THE MINT
Be taken on a journey of amazing discovery through 14 themed areas, including the tropical Bay of Rays, Discovery Rockpool, South Coast Shipwreck, Dugong Island and more. SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium is also home to the world’s largest collection of Australian aquatic life. Aquarium Pier, Darling Harbour. Daily 10am–7pm. sydneyaquarium.com.au
The Mint is one of Sydney CBD’s oldest public buildings and is an historic coining factory. The building was constructed in 1811–1816 as the south wing of Governor Macquarie’s General Hospital for convicts. The hospital became known as the ‘Rum Hospital’, because it was built in exchange for exclusive rights for three merchants to import 45,000 gallons of spirits to the colony. 10 Macquarie Street, Sydney. Mon–Fri 9.30am– 5pm (closed weekends). 8239 2288. sydneylivingmuseums.com.au/ the-mint PYLON LOOKOUT
Walk across the Sydney Harbour Bridge then head up to the 200 stairs to the Pylon Lookout for mindblowing panoramic views. There is an exhibition inside the pylon where you can learn more about the construction of the bridge. Cahill Expressway, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney. Daily 10am–5pm. 9240 1100. pylonlookout.com.au THE ROCKS
This historic precinct is located north of the CBD, between Circular Quay and Walsh Bay. Wander the cobblestoned streets and discover the many stories
SEA LIFE SYDNEY AQUARIUM
SYDNEY HARBOUR BRIDGE
The star of our New Year’s Eve fireworks and probably the most photographed man-made structure in Australia, the Sydney Harbour Bridge opened in 1932 as the world’s tallest steel arch bridge. More than 200,000 cars travel over the bridge every day. Climb up the 200 stairs in the South East Pylon to the lookout and check out the museum inside. SYDNEY OBSERVATORY
The Sydney Observatory at The Rocks is consistently ranked by Sydneysiders as one of the city’s favourite attractions. It’s the place to enjoy a starry night, watch a 3D show, and learn about the universe. The Observatory is also a favourite romantic destination for locals and runs shows by day and by night.
1003 Upper Fort Street, Millers Point. 9217 0111. sydneyobservatory.com.au SYDNEY OLYMPIC PARK
An easy train or ferry ride from Sydney’s CBD will get you to Sydney Olympic Park. Built for the Sydney 2000 Olympics, Sydney Olympic Park is now known as one of Sydney’s major sporting and entertainment venues. There are lots of family-friendly activities to enjoy and plenty of green spaces to explore. Australia Avenue, Sydney Olympic Park. 9714 7888. sydneyolympicpark.com.au SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE
The Sydney Opera House is one of the most recognised buildings in the world. It was designed by architect Jørn Utzon and opened in 1973. Today it is home to a huge program of events encompassing music, theatre, dance, ideas, comedy and more. You can take a tour and learn more about this masterpiece, or stop by the famous Opera Bar for a drink and bask in the glory of this architectural beauty. Bennelong Point, Sydney. 9250 7111. sydneyoperahouse.com SYDNEY TOWER EYE
If you’re in Sydney for a day or even a lifetime, the views from Sydney Tower Eye make for an unforgettable experience! At 250 metres tall, Sydney Tower Eye offers stunning, uninterrupted 360-degree views of Sydney and its famous landmarks. Level 5, Westfield Sydney, Market Street, Sydney. Daily 9am–10pm. sydneytowereye.com.au
Sights
TARONGA ZOO
Located on the shores of Sydney Harbour, Taronga Zoo showcases over 4,000 animals from all around the world. Get nose to nose with everything from emus to elephants and lions to lizards. There are regular shows and feeding times, with great photo opportunities. Bradley’s Head Road, Mosman. Daily 9.30am–5pm (Sep–Apr), 9.30am–4.30pm (May–Aug). 9969 2777. taronga.org.au WET’N’WILD SYDNEY
Get wet at Sydney’s biggest water theme park—Wet’n’Wild Sydney! Enjoy action-packed rides like 360Rush, featuring 360-degree looping water slides to The Surf Deck, where you can learn to catch a wave. The whole family will enjoy The Beach, Australia’s largest wave pool, and Boomerang Bay. Open Sept–Apr only, check website for opening days. 427 Reservoir Road, Prospect. wetnwildsydney.com.au WILD LIFE SYDNEY ZOO
Journey around Australia on an all-Aussie animal adventure at WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo. Come face to face with one of the world’s largest saltwater crocodiles at the amazing Kakadu Gorge. Explore the Kangaroo Walk-About, meet koalas in Gum Tree Valley and more! WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo features interactive displays, entertaining keeper talks and enhanced walkthrough habitats including Koala Encounters and Butterfly Tropics. Aquarium Wharf, Darling Harbour. Daily 10am–5pm. wildlifesydney.com.au
49
Sights
SE ARCH THE CIT Y / For more listings, see wheretraveler.com/sydney
MUSEUMS
POWERHOUSE MUSEUM
SYDNEY JEWISH MUSEUM
Australia’s first public museum is dedicated to exploring and understanding the world. Their exhibitions are a joy for adults and kids alike. Collections not to be missed include First Australians and Wild Planet. 1 William Street, Sydney. Daily 9.30am–5pm. 9320 6000. australianmuseum.net.au
The Powerhouse Museum contains a unique and diverse collection that spans history, science, technology, design, industry, decorative arts, music, transport and space exploration. Their programs have a strong focus on the ideas and technologies that have changed our world, and the people who created them. 500 Harris Street, Ultimo. 9217 0111. maas.museum
AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM
THE ROCKS DISCOVERY MUSEUM
Australia’s dedicated maritime museum is located right on the water’s edge at Darling Harbour. Their core exhibitions explore maritime aspects of Indigenous culture, European exploration, immigration, sport and leisure, defence and Australia’s maritime links with the USA. Climb aboard the HMAS Vampire, Australia’s largest museum vessel and the last of the country’s big gun ships. 2 Murray Street, Darling Harbour. Daily 9.30am–5pm. 9298 3777. anmm.gov.au
This family-friendly museum tells the story of The Rocks area of Sydney from pre-European days to the present. Housed in a restored 1850s sandstone warehouse, the museum is home to a unique collection of images and archaeological artefacts found in The Rocks. The exhibits are filled with interactive fun, using touch screens to bring the history of the area alive. Kendall Lane (enter via Argyle Street), The Rocks. Daily 10am–5pm. 9240 8680. therocks.com
The Sydney Jewish Museum, located in the inner-city suburb of Darlinghurst, documents and examines the history of the Holocaust. It stands as a memorial to the six million murdered Jews and the millions of non-Jewish victims. It also tells the history of the Jews in Australia and illustrates the richness of Jewish life by showing its traditions. The Sydney Jewish Museum provides an eye-opening experience for all visitors through its permanent and temporary exhibitions. 148 Darlinghurst Road, Darlinghurst. Sun 10am–4pm, Mon–Thu 10am–4.30pm, Fri 10am– 3pm (closed Sat). 9360 7999. sydneyjewishmuseum.com.au
MUSEUM OF SYDNEY
SUSANNAH PLACE MUSEUM
AUSTRALIAN MUSEUM
The Museum of Sydney is on the site of Australia’s first Government House, built in 1788 by NSW’s first Governor, Captain Arthur Phillip. The buildings’ foundations were successfully excavated by archaeologists in the 1980s and are now a centrepiece of the museum. The museum extends over three floors, exhibiting colonial history, documents, furniture and art, and indigenous culture. Corner of Bridge and Phillip Streets, Sydney. 9251 5988. sydneylivingmuseums.com.au/ museum-of-sydney
50
W HE RE I OCTO B E R 20 18
Susannah Place has been home to more than 100 families throughout history. Learn their stories in this original terrace of four houses that has survived modern development. Don’t forget to pick up a unique souvenir at the delightfully re-created 1915 corner shop. 58–64 Gloucester Street, The Rocks. Daily 2pm–5pm. 9241 1893. sydneylivingmuseums.com. au/susannah-place-museum
PARKS
AUBURN BOTANIC GARDENS
These sprawling urban gardens cover 9.2 hectares and feature a range of unique plant and animal life. The gardens are popular for picnics, and every August Auburn Botanic Gardens hosts its annual Cherry Blossom Festival. Corner Chisholm and Chiswick Roads, Auburn. cumberland.nsw.gov.au/ auburn-botanic-gardens
AUSTRALIAN BOTANIC GARDEN, MOUNT ANNAN
The Australian Botanic Garden, Mount Annan is Australia’s largest botanic garden with more than 416 hectares for visitors to discover. The Garden features themed areas such as the Wattle and Banksia gardens, 7 kilometres of mountain bike trails and more than 20 kilometres of walking tracks. Narellan Road, Mount Annan. Daily 8am–5pm (until 7pm during summer). 4634 7900. australianbotanicgarden.com.au BARANGAROO RESERVE
Barangaroo Reserve offers spectacular views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, ANZAC Bridge and surrounds. The six-hectare headland has been planted with over 75,000 trees and shrubs. Stroll around the foreshore on the Wulugul Walk, lie back on the Stargazer Lawn or bask in the vast multipurpose space of The Cutaway. Enter via Argyle Place or Towns Place, Walsh Bay. 9255 1700. barangaroo.sydney BLUE MOUNTAINS BOTANIC GARDEN, MOUNT TOMAH
Stroll through 78 acres of magnificent landscaped gardens housing Australia’s
HELLO MANLY – OFFICIAL BOOKING & INFORMATION CENTRE The Forecourt, Manly Wharf T: (02) 9976 1430 visit@hellomanly.com.au www.hellomanly.com.au Monday–Friday 9am–5pm Weekends & Public Holidays 10am–4pm. ● Closed Christmas Day.
SE ARCH THE CIT Y / For more listings, see wheretraveler.com/sydney
most extensive cool-climate collection. Themed displays include the Plant Explorer’s Walk, the ancient Gondwana Forest with prehistoric Wollemi Pines and the southern hemisphere’s largest rock garden. Bells Line of Road, Mount Tomah. Mon–Fri 9am–5.30pm, Sat–Sun 9.30am–5.30pm. 4567 3000. bluemountainsbotanic garden.com.au CENTENNIAL PARKLANDS
Centennial Parklands is a beautiful recreation area in the middle of Sydney’s iconic Eastern Suburbs. Home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, Centennial Parklands is a playground for both adults and children alike. It is one of the few inner-city parks with horseriding facilities as well.
Entry via Oxford Street, Paddington. 9339 6699. centennialparklands.com.au CHINESE GARDEN
A gift from China’s Guangdong province in 1988 to celebrate Australia’s Bicentenary, the Chinese Garden of Friendship is one of the few traditional gardens of its type in existence outside mainland China. Pier Street, Darling Harbour. Daily 9.30am–5pm (Apr–Sep), 9.30am–5.30pm (Oct–Mar). 9240 8888. chinesegardens.com.au HYDE PARK
Hyde Park is Australia’s oldest park, and one of its most well-known. Located in Central Sydney, it is the perfect spot for a picnic or if you just want a break from the bustling city streets.
You’ll also find that Hyde Park is home to numerous special events throughout the year. Elizabeth Street, Sydney. NUTCOTE
Nutcote is the harbourside home of renowned Australian author May Gibbs (1877-1969). It now houses a museum and beautiful garden. Gibbs is a classic children’s author and illustrator best known today for “The Complete Adventures of Snugglepot & Cuddlepie”. 5 Wallaringa Avenue, Neutral Bay. Wed–Sun 11am–3pm. 9953 4453. maygibbs.com.au PADDINGTON RESERVOIR GARDENS
Housed below street level, the Paddington Reservoir Gardens are a secret hidden treasure of the city. The
Discover Aboriginal heritage in the heart of the city
Bushfood experience
Heritage Tour
Bookings and information: rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au
#RBGSydney
Art Class
Sights
reservoir was a vital source of water for residents in the 19th century, today it has state heritage listing status. Stroll through the gardens, which are reminiscent of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, and enjoy a sense of peace from the bustling city streets above. 251 Oxford Street, Paddington. cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au ROYAL BOTANIC GARDEN SYDNEY
Come into the gardens and discover hidden botanic treasures set against one of the most magnificent vistas in the world. Offering arguably the best views of the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour, a visit to Sydney isn’t complete without a walk through the beautiful Royal Botanic Garden Sydney. Mrs Macquaries Road, Sydney. Daily from 7am, check website for seasonal closing times. 9231 8111. rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au WENDY’S SECRET GARDEN
Loved by locals and garden enthusiasts, Wendy’s Secret Garden is a secret no more. Hidden away in beautiful Lavender Bay, the garden was created by Wendy Whiteley, wife of the late Australian painter Brett Whiteley. In the aftermath of her husband’s passing, Wendy put all her effort and grief into clearing the overgrown land near her home. She then began creating the garden, in a very painterly way driven by colour and aesthetics. Today, the garden is a spectacular testament to Wendy with its lush greenery and beautiful views offering a sense of peace and tranquillity. Lavender Street, Lavender Bay. wendyssecretgarden.org.au
51
Food The Grand Graze at The Royal Paddington Book in now to experience The Grand Graze at The Royal Paddington. Available on weekends in the Verandah Bar, the aptly named ‘The Grand Graze,’ features a stunning charcuterie centrepiece complete with a selection of cured meats, seasonal fruits, high-quality cheeses, house-made dips, pickled fennel and more. The giant antipasto boards are a delicious meal to savour while soaking up the sun and enjoying a selection of seasonal cocktails. Bookings essential. Available Saturday and Sundays from 1pm, $35pp (minimum four guests). 9331 2604. The Royal Hotel Paddington, Five Ways 237 Glenmore Road, Paddington. royalhotel.com.au/the-grand-graze
Asian Spice Alley is Sydney’s not-so-secret hidden dining laneway offering some truly authentic Asian cuisine. You’ll find Spice Alley in Chippendale’s Kensington Street offering several hawker-style eateries under a ceiling of lanterns. Try Singaporean dishes at Alex Lee Kitchen, Vietnamese at Viet, Thai Street Food at Bang Luck, Malaysian at Old Jim Kee, Cantonese at Hong Kong Diner and Japanese at Kyo-To. 18–20 Kensington Street, Chippendale. Sun–Wed 11am–10pm (last orders 9:30pm), Thu–Sat 11am– 10.30pm (last orders 10pm). 9281 0822. spicealley.com.au
CIRCULAR QUAY
ARIA
Modern Australian Aria is an award-winning restaurant by famed Australian chef Matt Moran. Aria provides a fine dining experience with striking harbour and Sydney Opera House views, a seasonal tasting menu and extensive wine list, served in an intimate and elegant dining room. Aria first opened its doors in 1999 and is highly regarded
52
W HE RE I OCTO B E R 20 18
and awarded both locally and internationally. 1 Macquarie Street, East Circular Quay. Lunch Mon– Fri 12pm–2.15pm, Sat 12pm– 1.30pm (vacate by 4pm), Sun 12pm–1.45pm (vacate by 4.30pm); Dinner Mon–Fri 5.30pm–10.30pm, Sat 5pm–11pm, Sun 5.30pm–10pm. 9240 2255. ariarestaurant.com/sydney BAR PATRÓN BY ROCKPOOL
Mexican Bar Patrón by Rockpool is a modern Mexican restaurant. It features a menu of quintessential Mexican favourites such as empanadas, tamales, quesadillas and tacos; soups and small plates of esquites and tostadas; tortas and traditional sandwiches; and larger plates of enchiladas, enmolada con pollo and shared taco platters. A delightful range of pastries and desserts are handmade on site daily. Cocktails deliver a refreshing take on classic Mexican drinks, such as the Paloma, Cantarito and Ponche de Granada. 2 Phillip Street, Sydney. Daily midday-late. 9259 5624. barpatron.com.au
BENNELONG
Modern Australian Considered one of Sydney’s best restaurants, Bennelong pairs Australian fine dining with the best views in town. Executive Chef Peter Gilmore showcases an incredible menu filled with an array of the finest Australian produce. Bennelong offers a la carte dining, as well as the relaxed Cured & Cultured counter, ideal for casual meal and a glass of wine. Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney. Restaurant hours: Lunch Fri– Sun 12pm–2.30pm, dinner Sun–Wed 5.30pm–9.30pm, Thu–Sat 5.30pm–10pm. 9240 8000. bennelong.com.au GATEWAY SYDNEY
Around The World This dining precinct at Circular Quay offers a bustling hub of eateries to explore. Open seven days a week, Gateway Sydney is home to more than 25 eateries that focus just as much on the theatre of creating a dish as they do on serving the best quality produce. Whether you’re after breakfast, lunch, dinner or even just a coffee and afternoon treat, head
to Gateway Sydney to try out favourites like Roll’d, Din Tai Fung, Four Frogs Creperie, Burger Project, Chat Thai, Mad Mex, Gelato Messina or Zumbo. Alfred Street, Circular Quay. 9256 6900. gatewaysydney.com.au THE MEAT & WINE CO CIRCULAR QUAY
Steakhouse Located in
the lobby of the iconic InterContinental Sydney, The Meat & Wine Co has spared no expense in bringing this spectacular steakhouse to Sydney Harbour. Rustic wooden walls, original arched windows, luxurious leather seating, and stone features make this the ideal setting for business meetings and romantic dinners alike. Shop 12, Lobby, InterContinental Sydney, 117 Macquarie Street, Circular Quay. Lunch and dinner Sun–Thu 12pm– 10pm and Fri–Sat 12pm–11pm. 9252 7888. themeatandwineco.com OPERA KITCHEN
Around the World Top off your visit to the Sydney Opera House with a meal at Opera Kitchen.
THE GRAND GRAZE.
CHIPPENDALE
SPICE ALLEY
SE ARCH THE CIT Y / For more listings, see wheretraveler.com/sydney
Enjoy casual creative fare, with panoramic harbourside views. Choose from burgers, sliders, hotdogs, fries, seafood, sandwiches, salads, sushi, dumplings and Asian cuisine. They also have a wide drinks menu, so you can sit back and relax, sipping a cocktail under the sails of the Opera House. Lower Concourse level, Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney. Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner, Sun–Thu 7.30am–10.30pm, Fri–Sat 7.30am–12am. 9250 7111. sydneyoperahouse.com PORTSIDE SYDNEY
Modern Australian Relax by the harbour with uninterrupted views and discover one of the Sydney Opera House’s best-kept secrets. With an inventive
menu showcasing local seasonal produce and relaxed table service dining, Portside Sydney features a new look interior including stylish indoor furniture, creating a relaxed lounge space for those looking for an intimate, casual dining experience. Offering pretheatre dining and high tea as well as brunch, lunch and dinner, Portside Sydney is the perfect place to unwind while looking out over Sydney’s famous harbour. Western Broadwalk, Sydney Opera House, Sydney. Mon– Fri lunch from 11.30am and dinner from 5pm, Sat–Sun from 11.30am. 9250 7220. portsidesydney.com.au THE SQUIRE’S LANDING
Modern Australian The
Squire’s Landing is a two-storey restaurant
and brewhouse with a freestanding microbrewery at Circular Quay. With incredible panoramic views of the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge it is the perfect spot for a meal and drink by the harbour. There are three separate dining spaces all offering menus with unique modern Australian flavours, inspired by the legend himself, James Squire, a convict on the First Fleet and Australia’s first brewer. Hearty pub classics are on offer including burgers and steaks, while the upstairs restaurant serves a seasonal menu using fresh local produce. Northern end of the Overseas Passenger Terminal, Circular Quay. 8014 5661. thesquireslanding.com.au
Food
CITY
360 BAR AND DINING
Modern Australian This stylish and intimate restaurant offers guests an indulgent culinary experience with 360-degree revolving views of the city. With dark mahogany wood finishes and soft ambient lighting, 360 Bar and Dining provides a breathtaking setting with an unbeatable backdrop. In the kitchen, traditional techniques are combined with contemporary flair to create seasonally changing menus utilising the best in fresh produce. Reception Level 4, Westfield Sydney, between Pitt and Castlereagh Streets, Sydney. Daily lunch 12pm–4pm (last seating 2pm) and dinner 5.30pm–11pm (last seating 9pm). 8223 3883. 360dining.com.au
53
Food
SE ARCH THE CIT Y / For more listings, see wheretraveler.com/sydney
BOTANIC GARDENS RESTAURANT
Modern Australian The picturesque Botanic Gardens Restaurant is an enchanting venue offering open-air dining in exquisite garden surrounds. Enjoy a lunch during the week, or long breakfast on the weekends, and indulge in quality food with their seasonally changing menus. The café provides an excellent casual spot for lunch with a selection of gourmet sandwiches, salads, baked goods and excellent coffee. Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, Mrs Macquaries Road, Sydney. Restaurant: Lunch daily 12pm–3pm, breakfast Sat–Sun 9.30am– 11.30am. Cafe: Daily 8.30am– 4.30pm. 1300 558 980. botanicrestaurant.com.au FRATELLI FRESH
Italian Fratelli Fresh is Sydney’s leading providore, specialising in fresh produce and serving up authentic Italian fine food. The menu heroes the very best of Italian cooking, where simplicity meets robust flavours and fresh produce. The portions are generous and the menu is extensive with beautifully blended wines to complement a mixture of savoury dishes, pastas and pizzas. Buon Appetito! 11 Bridge Street, Sydney. 9259 5692. 229–231 Macquarie Street, Sydney. 9259 5672. Shop 8, 16 Hickson Road, Walsh Bay. 9259 5674. 52 Mitchell Road, Alexandria. 9259 5691. Level 5, Westfield Sydney. 8099 7055. 118 Willoughby Road, Crows Nest. 8099 7070. 211 Bent Street, Moore Park, Entertainment Quarter. 8099 7069. ICC Sydney, 14 Darling Drive, Darling Harbour. 9259 5600. fratellifresh.com.au
54
W HE RE I OCTO B E R 20 18
INDU
Indian/Sri Lankan Go on a journey to the Indian subcontinent at INDU. Their flavoursome menu of cuisine from Sri Lanka and southern India is fused with modern influences. The menu is divided into sections for easy choosing and is designed to share. Try the pan-seared scallops in a shell with cauliflower puree, cumin, finger lime and green mango pickle, or the inventive squid ink hopper with spice-crusted tuna, pomelo and tuna belly pickle. There’s also a great range of cool cocktails as well as their signature gin and tonics, and the friendly staff are always on hand to help choose. 350 George Street, (entry via Angel Place) Sydney. Mon–Fri 12pm–late and Sat 5pm–late. 9223 0158. indudining.com.au KID KYOTO
Japanese With a serious nod to the iconic music of the 80s and 90s, Kid Kyoto is a modern Japanese restaurant inspired by the Izakaya bars of Japan. With a hand-picked soundtrack of classic tunes playing from Nirvana to Portishead, Kid Kyoto is a feast for all your senses. The menu is divided into different musical sections. Go “Raw & Unplugged” with the beef tartare ‘teriyaki flavour’, nashi pear and whipped katsuobushi, or take to the “Main Stage” with the Soundgarden-inspired ‘Black Hole Sun’ pork belly with nori jam, apple and pickled radish. 17–19 Bridge Street (entry via Bridge Lane), Sydney. Mon–Fri 12pm–late, Sat 5pm–late. 9241 1991. kidkyoto.com.au
KINGSLEYS AUSTRALIAN STEAKHOUSE
Steakhouse Located in
the heart of the Sydney CBD, Kingsleys Australian Steakhouse is housed in a former candle factory. Enjoy a perfect steak and a glass of wine in this rustic steakhouse. They believe in serving premium quality beef in a simple manner allowing true flavour and texture to shine. 29A King Street, Sydney. Lunch Mon–Fri 12pm– 3pm, dinner Mon–Sat 5.30pm–10pm. 9295 5080. kingsleysauststeak.com.au LE PETIT FLOT
French Japanese Located at The Tank Stream Hotel, Sydney, Le Petit Flot restaurant offers contemporary French cuisine with a Japanese influence. With sharing plates and large communal tables, you can enjoy French cuisine and fine meats in the heart of Sydney CBD. Experience flavours inspired by French cooking techniques complemented with a Japanese influence. Level 2, 97 Pitt Street, Sydney. Lunch Mon–Fri 12pm–3pm, dinner Mon– Sat 5.30pm–10pm. 8222 1270. lepetitflot.com MEDUSA GREEK MEZE
Greek Set in the heart of Sydney’s CBD and part of the Medusa restaurant family, Medusa Greek Meze brings Greek street food to Sydney. You’re invited to sit back and relax within a warm and comfortable setting, as you sip Greek wine and people watch while indulging in the authentic flavours of Greece. 111 York Street, Sydney. Mon–Fri 7.30am–10pm. 9283 2423. medusagreekmeze.com.au
MEDUSA GREEK TAVERNA
Greek From the sun soaked
hills of Greece comes Medusa Greek Taverna. Traditional family recipes and farm fresh ingredients combined with the love of authentic Greek cooking is what you will find at this restaurant in Sydney’s CBD. Owned and operated by Peter Koutsopoulos, Medusa Greek Taverna succeeds in creating a true Greek experience. 2 Market Street (Corner Market and Kent Streets), Sydney. Lunch Mon–Fri 12pm–3.30pm, dinner Mon–Sat 5.30pm–9pm (last booking). 9267 0799. medusagreektaverna.com.au MÉJICO
Mexican This modern Mexican treasure is in the heart of Sydney’s busy CBD. Méjico is a funky, contemporary restaurant that places a huge emphasis on fresh, mouthwatering ingredients. Most of the menu is tapas-style and designed to share, but there are larger mains available too. The table-made guacamole with plantain chips is a must, or why not try the grilled ocean trout tacos, or the highly popular corn lollipops. The friendly staff are always on hand to help with ever-important menu decisions and for drinks, there’s a huge range of tequila to choose from, as well as cocktails, sangria and wine. 105 Pitt Street, Sydney. Mon–Sat 12pm–late. 9230 0119. mejico.com.au THE PAVILION
Modern Australian The Pavilion is seated on the edge of The Domain directly opposite the Art Gallery of NSW. The Pavilion offers a uniquelyshaped curved building, with modern interiors and
SE ARCH THE CIT Y / For more listings, see wheretraveler.com/sydney
leafy garden vistas. With an emphasis on fresh produce, the seasonally changing menus are crafted with a modern Australian flare, offering guests quality food matched with attentive service. 1 Art Gallery Road, Sydney. Restaurant: Daily 9am–3pm. Kiosk: Daily 8am–4pm. 1300 300 278. pavilionrestaurant.com.au SPICE TEMPLE
Chinese This city restaurant is at the forefront of modern Chinese dining. It focuses on dishes from China’s lesser known regions. The dark and intimate surroundings add to the mystique, while the menu definitely favours those who enjoy a hit of spice. With incredible service and divine food, Spice Temple lives up to its name.
5
$
5
$
10 Bligh Street, Sydney. Mon–Wed 12pm–3pm and 6pm–10.30pm, Thu–Fri 12pm–3pm and 6pm–11pm, Sat 5.30pm–11pm and Sun 6pm–10pm. 8078 1888. spicetemple.com.au STEEL BAR AND GRILL
Modern Australian Steel Bar and Grill have sourced the finest cuts of meat from quality producers and have enhanced their flavour with a natural smokey goodness that only a woodfired grill can produce. If a quick bite and a drink is what you’re after, then grab a spot on their enclosed terrace and try some Sydney rock oysters and a glass of wine. 60 Carrington Street, Sydney. Lunch Mon–Fri 12pm– 3pm, dinner Mon–Sat 6pm–late. 9299 9997. steelbarandgrill.com
SYDNEY TOWER BUFFET
THE TEA ROOM QVB
Modern Australian Sydney
Traditional High Tea What
Tower Buffet offers diners over 60 freshly prepared dishes from a range of cuisines, including modern Australian, Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, Italian and a selection of fresh seafood, not to mention the DIY dessert bar. Attentive and friendly service is matched with spectacular 360-degree views of the city, making this a unique dining experience for locals and visitors alike. Reception Level 4, Sydney Westfield Centre, between Pitt and Castlereagh Streets, Sydney. Daily lunch 11.30am– 3.30pm (last seating 2pm) and dinner 5pm–10.30pm (last seating 9pm). 8223 3800. sydneytowerbuffet.com.au
better way to capture the sense of occasion than with the time-honoured ritual of traditional afternoon tea. Indulge in a truly unique experience from Royal Albert fine china and British silverware settings, to the delectable selection of petit fours prepared by the awardwinning patissier. Traditional afternoon tea includes a set selection of sweet cakes and savoury pastries, selection of finger sandwiches, homemade scones with preserve and cream and a wide selection of tea or coffee. Level 3, North End, Queen Victoria Building, 455 George Street, Sydney. Morning tea Mon–Fri 10am–12pm. Traditional afternoon tea daily 10am–close. 9283 7279. thetearoom.com.au
5
5
$
$
$
Food
5
$
Alexandria | Macquarie Street | Entertainment Quarter | Walsh bay Bridge Street | Sydney Westfield | Crows Nest | Darling Harbour
55
Food
SE ARCH THE CIT Y / For more listings, see wheretraveler.com/sydney
DARLING HARBOUR/ KING STREET WHARF
BLACKBIRD
Modern Australian Set in Darling Harbour’s bustling Cockle Bay Wharf, Blackbird uses the freshest ingredients to create mouthwatering burgers, stone-oven pizzas and more. The modern Australian menu is not only satisfying but also adventurous in an atmosphere that exudes sociability. Balcony level, Cockle Bay Wharf, Darling Harbour. Daily 11.30am–late. 9283 7385. blackbirdcafe.com.au CASA RISTORANTE ITALIANO
Italian Head chef Romano has used his Italian history and heritage to create unique dishes to suit the taste buds of Sydney locals and visitors alike. You will enjoy delicious classic Italian food made from Sydney’s freshest produce, with a great wine list to match. The woodfired pizzas are a must and will have you transported to Italy with every bite. 42–48 The Promenade, King Street Wharf, Sydney. Daily 11.30am–late, Sat–Sun breakfast from 8.30am. 9279 4115. lovecasa.com.au GEORGES MEDITERRANEAN BAR & GRILL
Mediterranean Georges
Mediterranean Bar & Grill sources the finest produce to create their flavoursome dishes. Georges’ simple and unique concept mixed with their flare and ambiance stems from the heart of the Mediterranean, giving visitors a special dining experience. With stunning views of Darling Harbour, signature cocktails and unique wines, Georges will definitely seduce your tastebuds!
56
W HE RE I OCTO B E R 20 18
Wharf 3, The Promenade, King Street Wharf, Sydney. Lunch Mon–Fri 12pm–3pm, dinner 5.30pm–10.30pm and lunch Sat–Sun 12pm– 4pm, dinner 5.30pm–10.30pm. 9295 5066. georgesrestaurant.com.au HARBOUR KITCHEN & BAR
Modern Australian Spanning across the balcony level of Harbourside, Harbour Bar & Kitchen (HBK) offers stunning views of Sydney Harbour and the iconic Sydney city skyline from every seat in the house. HBK is a world-class dining experience paired with a luxe outdoor bar scene. The menu offers the finest charcoal oven meats, seafood and vegetables, as well as innovative smaller share plates. Shop 437 & 447, Level 2, Harbourside Shopping Centre, 2–10 Darling Drive, Darling Harbour. Mon– Fri 10am–late, Sat–Sun 9am–late. 9280 2029. harbourbarandkitchen.com.au HUNTER & BARREL
Modern Australian Hunter & Barrel is a sophisticated take on the hunter’s way, where ancient ritual combines with raw elements of nature in a modern setting. Inside, you can hear the crackle from the fire, smell the meat smoking and see the stacks of coals by the pit. With abundant food offerings, including braised soups, slow-cooked meats, pies, and hearty stews prepared by their signature coal and spit rotisserie, Hunter & Barrel is the perfect place to feast with friends and family. Tenancy 303, Cockle Bay Wharf, Darling Harbour. Sun–Thu 12pm–10pm, Fri–Sat 12pm–10.30pm. 9264 9888. hunterandbarrel.com
MEAT DISTRICT CO
Modern Australian At Meat District Co, the hanging cured meats, fall-off-thebone ribs and fresh-made bread will leave nothing to be desired. Their menu features tender and juicy steaks, slow roasted ribs, succulent burgers, the freshest of salads and irresistible desserts. Shop R3, 11 Lime Street, King Street Wharf, Darling Harbour. Daily 11am–late. 9299 9762. meatdistrictco.com.au PLANAR
Modern Australian Conveniently located on the ground floor of the ICC Sydney in the heart of Darling Harbour, Planar is the perfect spot for a bite to eat any time of the day or night. From prawn lollipops and Tex-Mex nachos to burgers, stone-baked pizzas and mains like American pork ribs and Australian shredded wagyu, there’s something on the menu to cater to everyone’s tastes. Tempting desserts and a wide variety of drinks are also on offer. Shop C08, Ground Floor, ICC Sydney, 1A Harbour Street, Sydney. Daily 7am–12am. 9212 6789. planarrestaurant.com.au SORENZO
Japanese Sorenzo brings contemporary Japanese flavours to Darling Harbour for guests to experience whilst taking in the calming waterfront views of the harbour. Ranging from sashimi to wagyu steaks, Sorenzo encompasses the ever-changing Japanese cuisine by infusing Japanese flavours into western ingredients to provide a fresh change of pace, whilst keeping some of the Japanese favourites for the traditionalists.
Shop 347, Level 2, Harbourside Shopping Centre, 2–10 Darling Drive, Darling Harbour. Daily lunch 12pm– 3pm, dinner 5.30pm–late. 9211 9550. sorenzo.com.au STEERSONS
Steakhouse Steersons offers premium quality in all aspects of their dining experience—from the restaurant setting to the excellent steak. Their steaks are second to none in quality, taste and texture; they are succulent and sumptuous and matched by an impressive and extensive wine list featuring Australian and imported wines. If you are a steak lover, then a visit to Steersons is a must. 17 Lime Street, King Street Wharf, Sydney. Daily lunch 12pm–3pm, dinner 5.30pm–10.30pm. 9295 5060. steersons.com.au
DARLINGHURST/ SURRY HILLS
CHIN CHIN
Asian This spin-off of the successful Melbourne restaurant is proving popular here too. Housed in the historic Griffiths Tea Building in Surry Hills, Chin Chin offers a uniquely Australian take on Asian cuisine. Using the freshest produce and a mix of herbs and spices, their chefs have created a stunning menu of delightfully tasty dishes. 69 Commonwealth Street, Surry Hills. Daily 11.30am–late. 9281 3322. chinchinrestaurant.com.au HOPPER KADE
Sri Lankan Hopper Kade serves a modern take on Sri Lankan cuisine. They fuse traditional Sri Lankan flavours with western cooking techniques and Australian influences. Their signature hoppers are made in-house from fermented rice flour and coconut milk. The hoppers
SE ARCH THE CIT Y / For more listings, see wheretraveler.com/sydney
are naturally dairy and gluten free, filled with a free-range egg and new additions such as Lankan-spiced 12-hour beef brisket and pulled pork. The menu also features Roti wraps, a Sri Lankan roti filled with biryani rice, pickle and hung yoghurt and Biryani plates made with a base of biryani rice, topped with pickle, coconut sambol and a choice of fillings such as beetroot curry or spiced chicken. 253 Crown Street, Darlinghurst. Tue 11am–3pm, Wed–Fri 11am–3pm and 5pm–10pm, Sat–Sun 8am–3pm and 5pm–10pm. hopperkade.com.au
INNER WEST
3 WEEDS
Modern Australian This renowned local gastro pub in Rozelle offers a modern take on contemporary
Australian cuisine. They offer pub classics as well as multicultural fare. Try the delicious baked whole barramundi with sweet and sour pumpkin, quinoa, ginger, chilli, soya and pickled carrot; or the classic grilled scotch fillet with three mustard butter, chips and salad. 197 Evans Street, Rozelle. Kitchen: 12pm–late. 9818 2788. 3weeds.com.au THE GREEN LION
Vegan Located in the innerwest suburb of Rozelle, The Green Lion is said to be Australia’s first-pub offering a 100% plant-based menu. You’ll get all your regular pub favourites but with a vegan twist. Try their vegan version of burgers, hot dogs, pizza, lasagna, chicken schnitzel, “seafood” baskets,
nachos and more. Upstairs at The Red Lion Hotel, 726 Darling Street, Rozelle. Wed–Thu 6pm– 9pm, Fri 6pm–9.30pm, Sat 12.30pm–9.30pm, Sun 12.30pm–8.30pm. thegreenlion.com.au THE ROYAL OAK BALMAIN
Modern Australian Tucked
away in the back streets of Balmain you’ll find a gem of a pub, The Royal Oak. It is one of Balmain’s oldest pubs and offers a substantial modern Australian menu and ye olde charm. Choose from snacks and share plates, quality cuts of meat, salads, and pub favourites like the beef and Guinness pie with mash. 36 College Street, Balmain. Daily 11am–late. 9810 2311. royaloakbalmain.com.au
Harbour Dining at its Best Daily Dinner, High Tea and Lunch cruises.
Circular Quay Wharf 6 Darling Harbour Pier 26 Barangaroo King St Wharf 1 02 9206 1111
Food
TRAMSHEDS
Around The World Filled with top-notch restaurants and food providores, Tramsheds is the perfect pit stop for the hungry diner with many options to choose from. The Tramsheds site is the former home of the Rozelle Tramway Depot which was originally built in 1904. Inside the building you’ll find a mix of restaurants that all focus on food, sustainability and community. Restaurants include Belles Hot Chicken, Flour Eggs Water, Osaka Trading Co, Gelato Messina, Bekya, Butcher and the Farmer and Fish and Co. 1 Dalgal Way, Forest Lodge. Daily 7am–10pm. 8398 5695. tramshedssydney.com.au
MOSMAN
GUNNERS’ BARRACKS
Modern Australian/High Tea This former military barracks was originally designed and constructed in 1873. Grand Pacific Group restored and re-opened Gunners’ Barracks in 2005 as a stunning dining and events venue. With views across Sydney harbour and interior features including hand-printed Florence Broadhurst wallpaper, Czech crystal chandeliers and ornate antique furniture, Gunners’ Barracks truly is a unique world-class dining experience. End of Suakin Drive, Georges Heights, Mosman. Devonshire, morning and afternoon tea from 10am weekdays. Afternoon tea from 10am weekends. À la carte lunch from 12pm Mon–Fri. 8962 5900. gunnersbarracks.com.au BURNT ORANGE
BEST DEALS ONLINE
Modern Australian/High Tea
captaincook.com.au
Located in the beautiful Sydney suburb of Mosman, Burnt Orange is housed in a stunning sandstone
57
Food
SE ARCH THE CIT Y / For more listings, see wheretraveler.com/sydney
mansion overlooking Sydney harbour. Their café is open daily serving yummy breakfast, lunch, high tea and afternoon tea. The menu focuses on buying the best quality ingredients from the top suppliers in Sydney and they change their menu seasonally. 1109 Middle Head Road, Mosman. Mon–Fri 8.30am–4pm and Sat–Sun 8.30am–5.30pm. 9969 1120. burntorange.com.au
THE ROCKS
THE ARGYLE
Modern Australian With six unique spaces under the one roof, The Argyle is perfect for any occasion. Whether it be cocktails in the sleek and stylish Belvedere Bar, drinks in the relaxed lounge or a private party in the intimate surrounds of the Reibey Room. You can even grab a delicious lunch or dinner at The Argyle Kitchen. 18 Argyle Street, The Rocks. Daily 11am–late. 9247 5500. theargylerocks.com THE CUT BAR & GRILL
Steakhouse Housed within a heritage cellar in the heart of The Rocks, The Cut Bar & Grill was inspired by New York’s super-chic steak restaurants. The menu celebrates the very finest cuts of prime Australian beef and sustainable seafood and the dishes are cooked to perfection and matched with impeccable service and fine wines. 16 Argyle Street, The Rocks. Mon–Fri lunch 12pm–3pm and dinner 5.30pm–10.30pm, Sat 5.30pm–11pm, Sun 5.30pm–10pm. 9259 5695. cutbarandgrill.com EL CAMINO CANTINA
Tex-Mex Located in the heart of The Rocks precinct,
58
W HE RE I OCTO B E R 20 18
El Camino Cantina boasts two huge bars featuring fully-restored 1957 Chevy trunks, complimentary fresh salsa and chips and a large dining room, all with an explosive Tex-Mex meets rock ‘n’ roll vibe. Think muscle cars, motorbikes and neon signs with glimmering lights. It’s all about big, bold flavours as well as freshly blended margaritas. 18 Argyle Street, The Rocks. Mon–Thu 12pm–12am, Fri–Sat 12pm–1am, Sun 12pm–10pm. 9259 5668. elcaminocantina.com.au FISH AT THE ROCKS
Seafood This family-owned restaurant features images of the early-20th-century fishing boats on its walls, while the menu includes exquisite offerings such as the chef’s signature dish of whole baked baby barramundi stuffed with prawns and vegetables, as well as traditional seafood offerings of oysters, lobster, prawns and scallops plus the daily specials board. 29 Kent Street, The Rocks. Lunch Mon–Fri 12pm–2.15pm, dinner daily 6pm–9.15pm. 9252 4614. fishattherocks.com.au MUNICH BRAUHAUS
Bavarian Munich Brauhaus is a traditional Bavarian bierhaus, where guests can dine, drink and party like Oktoberfest never ended. Located in Sydney’s historic Rocks district it is a bier lovers’ delight. Try the venue’s very own signature Munich Lager, as well as a series of exclusively imported Bavarian Biers, while the menu includes crispy pork belly, pork knuckle, spicy squid and haus-made sausages. Cnr Argyle and Playfair Streets, The Rocks. Mon– Fri 11am–late, Sat–Sun
9am–late. 9247 7785. munichbrauhaus.com PONY LOUNGE & DINING
Modern Australian Pony’s
open-plan kitchen features a wood-fired Argentinian grill and the interior includes heritage brick walls, woven art hangings and pendant lights hung from the original timber ceiling. The outdoor deck has a stylish bar and communal dining table, perfect for cocktails, sharing small plates with friends, or a more intimate dinner for two. The Rocks Centre, cnr Kendall Lane and Argyle Street, The Rocks. Daily lunch 12pm–3pm, dinner from 5.30pm. 9252 7797. ponydiningtherocks.com SAKÉ RESTAURANT & BAR
Japanese Saké Restaurant &
Bar combines funky décor and delicious Japanese cuisine to create a truly exciting dining experience. Top executive chefs deliver an intriguing blend of new-style sushi and classic dishes in a stunning contemporary space. The bar serves 50 kinds of saké as well as a selection of contemporary cocktails. 12 Argyle Street, The Rocks. Lunch Mon–Sun 12pm–3pm, dinner Mon–Thu 5.30pm–10.30pm, Fri–Sat 5.30pm–11.30pm and Sun 5pm–10pm. 9259 5656. Also located at 33 Cross Street, Double Bay. Lunch Mon–Sun 12pm–3pm, dinner Sun–Thu 5.30pm–10pm, Fri–Sat 5.30pm–11pm. 8017 3104. sakerestaurant.com.au
SYDNEY HARBOUR
CAPTAIN COOK CRUISES
Modern Australian/High Tea Dining on Sydney’s
shimmering harbour is a must and Captain Cook Cruises offers premium dining onboard Sydney’s most prestigious cruise ships.
A comprehensive range of lunch, high tea and dinner options are available over four decks and private dining rooms. For the ultimate dining experience try the Gold or Platinum Penfolds dinner options including six course degustation dining and a selection of Australia’s most celebrated wines. Circular Quay (Wharf 6) and Darling Harbour (Pier 26). 9206 1111. captaincook.com.au
WALSH BAY
WALSH BAY KITCHEN
Modern Australian Walsh Bay Kitchen is located in the heart of Sydney’s vibrant arts and theatre district at Walsh Bay. Their innovative menu features Australian fare and produce from Sydney’s finest providores. The Walsh Bay Kitchen bar offers a space for pre-theatre goers and locals to meet. 22 Hickson Road, Walsh Bay. Tue–Sat lunch from midday, dinner from 5pm, Sun dinner from 5pm, as per performances. 1300 368 801. walshbaykitchen.com.au
WATERLOO
LUKE’S KITCHEN
Modern Australian
Prominent Australian chef Luke Mangan brings you Luke’s Kitchen. The venue is a neighbourhood style eatery and the kitchen is led by Sydney chef Mathew Leighton. The space features a contemporary palette of earthy green and blush pink is the backdrop to warm pendant lighting, and retro finishes including a beaded curtain and a floral screen. Wed–Fri 4pm–late, Sat 10am–late, Sun 10am–4pm. 8 Danks Street, Waterloo. 9002 5346. lukeskitchen.com.au
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SEC TION
MEDUSA GREEK MEZE
ood in the
Medusa Greek Meze brings you Greek street food in the
etting.
heart of the CBD within a trendy and unique setting.
ial MGM
Open for breakfast and coffee, with their special MGM
lunch with
blend by Toby’s Estate. Try Greek fast food for lunch with
down and
gyros, souvlaki and open plate options, or sit down and
stralian and
relax in the evening with a top selection of Australian and
he Meze
Greek wine and beer, Meze and share plates, the Meze
re-theatre
menu is available in the evening. Perfect for pre-theatre
ple, rich in
dining or a relaxed night out, experience simple, rich in
ek Meze.
flavour, traditional Greek food at Medusa Greek Meze.
ey.
Medusa Greek Meze, 111 York Street, Sydney.
, Mon–Fri,
Tel: 9283 2423. Breakfast, lunch and dinner, Mon–Fri, 7.30am–10pm. medusagreekmeze.com.au
PONY DINING Pony Dining is a cosy yet modern restaurant located in the historic precinct of The Rocks on the corner of Argyle Street and Sydney’s oldest cobblestone laneway, Kendall Lane. The dining space includes a bar area and an al fresco laneway experience. Widely regarded as the pioneers of the wood fire grill in Sydney, the open kitchen design showcasing a signature Argentinean wood fire grill, allows guests to watch the chefs cook while dining. Pony’s menu is flavour driven with a strong focus on fresh Australian produce and native ingredients, offering the finest cuts of meat, freshest seafood and vegetarian options in an array of shared and larger plates. Cnr Argyle Street and Kendall Lane, The Rocks. Tel: 9252 7797. ponydining.com.au
GUNNERS’ BARRACKS
ts in Mosman,
Nestled within the bushland of Georges Heights in Mosman,
beauty in
Gunners’ Barracks exemplifies tranquillity and beauty in
ntemporary
sight of the city skyline. Enjoy the fresh new contemporary
dulge in the
lunch menu of Head Chef Nathan Darling or indulge in the
ete with an
tradition of morning and afternoon tea, complete with an
ems, savoury
array of delectable delights, including sweet items, savoury
cones. A
pastries, finger sandwiches and home-made scones. A
Morning
la carte lunch – Monday to Friday from 12pm. Morning
raditional
Tea – Monday to Friday from 10am to 12pm. Traditional
m.
Afternoon Tea – Monday to Sunday from 10am.
sman. m.au
End of Suakin Drive, Georges Heights, Mosman. Tel: 8962 5900. info@gunnersbarracks.com.au gunnersbarracks.com.au
59
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SEC TION
SAKÉ RESTAURANT & BAR One of Sydney’s most awarded contemporary Japanese restaurants, Sake Restaurant & Bar serves contemporary Japanese cuisine that mixes new style sushi with classic Japanese dishes. The menu, created by Executive Chef Shaun Presland, features the finest sushi and sashimi. Drop in for cocktails, pull up a seat at the sushi bar, or settle in for an evening and savour the experience. With the continued success of the brand, Saké has welcomed a second Sydney location in heart of the flourishing Double Bay dining scene. Lunch and dinner Monday–Sunday. 12 Argyle Street, The Rocks. Tel: 9259 5656. 33 Cross Street, Double Bay. Tel: 8017 3104. sakerestaurant.com.au
EL CAMINO CANTINA
garitas and
Get ready for legendary Tex-Mex, rockstar Margaritas and
Tex-Mex
a killer Rock ‘n’ Roll playlist when you enter this Tex-Mex
antina is
Cantina in the heart of The Rocks. El Camino Cantina is
e food to the
unashamedly Tex-Mex (not Mexican): from the food to the
cos fly out of
drinks and from the music to the décor. The tacos fly out of
s with over
the kitchen and tequila flows ’til the early hours with over
enue itself
100 tequilas and mezcal to choose from! The venue itself
g room and
is like no other in Australia, a massive bar, dining room and
gh neon lights
dedicated 27 club lounge flooded with enough neon lights
d 1957 Chevy
to light up the Las Vegas strip, and two restored 1957 Chevy
and salsas.
trunks overflowing with complimentary chips and salsas.
ne.
Walk-ins welcome and bookings available online.
a.com.au
18 Argyle Street, The Rocks. elcaminocantina.com.au
FISH AT THE ROCKS Established in 1988, Fish at The Rocks is home to a delicious array of modern Australian seafood. The menu at this family-owned restaurant features exquisite offerings such as the chef’s signature dish of whole baked baby barramundi stuffed with prawn and vegetables, as well as traditional seafood offerings of oysters, lobster, prawns and scallops plus the daily specials board. Images of early-20th-century fishing boats adorn the walls of this restaurant, which is centrally located in the historic Rocks precinct. 29 Kent Street, The Rocks. Tel: 9252 4614. fishattherocks.com.au
60
WHE RE I OCTO B E R 20 18
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SEC TION
BAR PATRÓN BY ROCKPOOL Bar Patrón by Rockpool is a sophisticated Mexican restaurant and bar that brings a premium and unprecedented experience to one of the world’s greatest cities. Bar Patrón by Rockpool blends authentic and aromatic Mexican ingredients with the finest produce that Australia has to offer. It delivers a food and drinks menu that is quality driven and second to none. Open lunch and dinner daily. Happy hour 4pm–6pm daily. 2 Phillip Street, Circular Quay. Tel: 9259 5624. barpatron.com.au
THE CUT BAR & GRILL
set in
The Cut Bar & Grill is a meat lover’s emporium; set in
d space
an intimate and unique candle-lit underground space
mean
where service meets precision and the diners mean
nspired
business. This classically charming New York inspired
uts of
steak house prides itself in serving premium cuts of
shest
high-quality Australian meat alongside the freshest
nu is cooked
sustainable seafood. The mouth-watering menu is cooked
ched with
to perfection by head chef Joel Wootten, matched with
winning
impeccable service and a consistently award-winning selection of fine wines, cocktails and whiskies. 16 Argyle Street, The Rocks. Tel: 9259 5695. cutbarandgrill.com
MUNICH BRAUHAUS Munich Brauhaus is an energetic modern Bavarian Bier Hall located in the heart of The Rocks. Be transported to Bavaria as you raise a stein of pure bier and celebrate with the live Oom Pah-Pah Band. The impressive menu at Munich Brauhaus offers up hearty, satisfying traditional favourites including crispy pork knuckles and schnitzels alongside a stellar selection of hand-crafted burgers, haus-made hot dogs and craft salads. Perfect for groups of all sizes, Munich Brauhaus boasts a large bustling Keller Bar and an impressive array of imported, pure biers and schnapps as well as a new range of Bavarian inspired craft beer. Cnr Playfair and Argyle Streets, The Rocks. Tel: 9247 7785. munichbrauhaus.com
61
Scene Boogie on Down at Bridge Lane Away from the hustle and bustle of the city head to one of Sydney’s newest bars, Bridge Lane. This hidden drinking den, located in the heart of the CBD, is reminiscent of a New York speakeasy filled with old-world charm. The Art Deco interiors are filled with copper, brass and splashes of vibrant colour. Sit and sip on world-class cocktails at the marble bar. There’s also an impressive wine list (with bottles from the best vineyards of France, Italy and Australia) plus a rather serious spirits list. This lavish bar is sure to be the talk of the town. Mon–Wed 10am–11pm, Thu–Sat 10am–2am. 6 Bridge Lane, Sydney. 9252 7772. bridgelanesydney.com.au
THE AUSTRALIAN
BUTTON BAR
This dining and nightlife destination is located in the historic Rocks precinct. Housed in the 1820s Argyle Stores building, The Argyle features six bars over two levels. With a huge program of events, including live music, DJs, special food offers and more, there’s always something happening at The Argyle. 18 Argyle Street, The Rocks. theargylerocks.com
The iconic Australian Heritage Hotel is located in The Rocks. This is a beer lover’s paradise as it offers more than 120 Australian craft beers, with 20 rotating Australian beers on tap. Relax amongst locals and try one of their famous gourmet pizzas like the “Coat of Arms” (half-emu and half-kangaroo) or “The Australian” (crocodile and vegetables). 100 Cumberland Street, The Rocks. 9247 2229. australianheritagehotel.com
Located in inner-city Surry Hills, you’ll find the pirateinspired Button Bar. You are guaranteed a good time here, with singalongs and cocktails like the “The Good, The Bad, The Ugly” and “Sneaky Tiki Time”. 65 Foveaux Street, Surry Hills. houseofpocket.com.au/ bars/button-bar-surry-hills/ venue-details/
ARTHOUSE HOTEL
With its ornate furniture and rich artwork, this refurbished 1836 School of Arts building is one of the city’s most inspirational venues. The venue features four separate bars, various art exhibitions, burlesque and cabaret nights, life drawing as well as DJs and club nights. From the Attic Bar, to the modern Verge Bar and Graffiti’s ornate art deco stylings, there is something and somewhere for everyone to enjoy. 275 Pitt Street, Sydney. 9284 1200. arthousehotel.com.au
62
W HE RE I OCTO B E R 20 18
BLU BAR ON 36
For an incredible panoramic view of Sydney, head up 36 levels of the Shangri-La Hotel to Blu Bar on 36. For a romantic date high in the sky, or simply a special evening to remember, you’ll find great service, a cocktail list from their worldchampion mixologists and a divine bar food menu, all with the most insanely beautiful city view capturing the sparkling harbour, the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. Level 36, Shangri-La Hotel, 176 Cumberland Street, The Rocks. 9250 6000. 36levelsabove.com.au
CRUISE BAR
Amidst all the hustle and bustle of Circular Quay at the Overseas Passenger Terminal, you’ll find Cruise Bar. With iconic harbourside views across to the Sydney Opera House, and a relaxing vibe, Cruise is the perfect pit stop on your travels. The ground floor bar is full of buzz and good vibes, while upstairs Junk Lounge offers an Asian inspired food and drink journey. Level 1, 2 and 3, Circular Quay West, Sydney. 9251 1188. cruisebar.com.au GAZEBO
In the back streets of Potts Point, you’ll find Gazebo. Lounge in the courtyard or dine from their delicious Italian menu. From the cocktail list, try
the Limoncello Spritz, it will transport you straight to the Amalfi Coast. 2 Elizabeth Bay Road, Elizabeth Bay. 0419 496 011. gazeboelizabethbay.com.au GIN LANE
Head to Chippendale’s Kensington Street and you’ll discover the fantastic small bar, Gin Lane. It is housed in an 18th Century terrace house, and is based on a 17th Century Gin Palace. This unique bar serves over 80 different gins and a wide selection of whisky and scotch too. Try the “Watering Can” cocktail with gin, Pimms, soda, ginger ale and fresh fruit—it’s delicious! Kensington Street, Chippendale. ginlanesydney.com.au THE GLENMORE
The renowned Glenmore is always popular, and with a rooftop like theirs, it’s easy to see why. They have a traditional ‘public bar’ on the ground floor with a historic feel, a cocktail bar and dining rooms on the first floor, and the now iconic Rooftop Bar on the top floor. With 180-degree views of Sydney Harbour you can soak up the sun in
BRIDGE LANE.
BARS
THE ARGYLE
SE ARCH THE CIT Y / For more listings, see wheretraveler.com/sydney
the day, and relax by the glittering lights of the city at night. 96 Cumberland Street, The Rocks. 9247 4794. theglenmore.com.au GRAIN
The Four Seasons Hotel Sydney takes hotel bars to the next level with their refined ground floor bar, Grain. Celebrate the fine craft of drinking with an extensive menu of boutique beers, carefullycrafted cocktails and one of Australia’s largest whisky selections. There’s bar food to share, from cheese platters and charcuterie boards to main meals and delicious desserts. Lobby Level, Four Seasons Hotel Sydney, 199 George Street, Sydney. 9250 3118. grainbar.com.au HACIENDA SYDNEY
With exotic harbour views, Hacienda Sydney is perfectly placed for an afternoon cocktail or two. With its cool plantation vibe and pastel colour palette you’ll be at ease. Choose from their rum-inspired cocktails or feast on the share menu. Level 3, 61 Macquarie Street, Sydney. 9256 4083. haciendasydney.com.au HARBOUR VIEW HOTEL
The views don’t get much more iconic than at the Harbour View Hotel— the name says it all really! It is located in The Rocks under the southern end of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The first Harbour View Hotel was built in 1843 and demolished to make way for the bridge to be built —it was originally located where the granite pylons now stand. Head up to the rooftop cocktail bar or dine at the restaurant, it doesn’t
get much better than this! 18 Lower Fort Street, Dawes Point. 9252 4111. harbourview.com.au HENRY DEANE
Located at the top of Hotel Palisade, Henry Deane is a sophisticated bar spread across two floors, with exquisite views over Barangaroo and the harbour. Their gorgeous cocktail lounge will have you grinning with a menu full of exotic options including the ‘No way Frose’ and ‘SunKissed Spritz’. Pair these with food choices from their menu including oysters, seafood and desserts. Hotel Palisade, 35 Bettington Street, Millers Point. 9018 0123. hotelpalisade.com INTERCONTINENTAL SYDNEY DOUBLE BAY ROOFTOP
Located on the top floor of the five-star InterContinental Sydney Double Bay, the Rooftop Bar and Lounge is a paradise overlooking both leafy Double Bay and shimmering Sydney Harbour. Enjoy the panoramic Sydney views, a classic blue-and-white striped sun lounge, or your own private cabana, where you can order cabana package meals including a fresh seafood selection. 33 Cross Street, Double Bay. Open Oct–Apr (closed to the public May–Sep). 8388 8388. icsydneydoublebay.com IVY
ivy is a leading dining, entertainment and retail destination in the heart of Sydney’s CBD. It is home to award-winning restaurants, their famous rooftop pool bar and numerous event spaces. ivy venues include Pool Club, Ash St. Cellar, Palings, Felix, The Royal George and Uccello.
ivy’s world-class design, impeccable service and great food ensure that you’ll have a memorable night out. 330 George Street, Sydney. 9240 3000. merivale.com.au LEVEL SEVEN
Level Seven is a New Yorkinspired rooftop bar at the heritage Primus Hotel. Featuring lush green areas, nautical cabanas and twinkling fairy lights, it is a stylish destination, where you can sit back and enjoy champagne, oysters and house-crafted cocktails. 339 Pitt Street, Sydney. Open Sep–Apr (closed to the public May–Aug). 8027 8000. primushotelsydney.com MARBLE BAR
The gorgeous Marble Bar at Hilton Sydney was built in 1892 and restored in 2005. Today it is a lively underground bar and live music venue, with live music from 7pm every Thursday to Sunday. Try a drink from their prohibition-inspired menu. Level B1, Hilton Sydney, 488 George Street, Sydney. 9266 2000. marblebarsydney.com.au
Scene
NOLA SMOKEHOUSE & BAR
Nola is a celebration of all things New Orleans. Famous for their Southern BBQ menu, head to the bar and try a Sazerac cocktail, or perhaps you are game for one of their special Whiskey Flights. Level 1, International Tower 1, 100 Barangaroo Avenue, Barangaroo South. 9188 3039. nolasydney.com OPERA BAR
Perhaps Sydney’s most famous outdoor bar, Opera Bar is a must-do on any visit to Sydney. Perched in the shadows of the iconic Sydney Opera House, it is located on the Lower Concourse and provides epic picture-postcard views of the city, harbour surrounds and Sydney Harbour Bridge. Sit back and bask in the city’s glow with a cocktail in hand, and feast on bar snacks, salads, delicious mains, meat and cheese platters, or freshly shucked oysters and seafood. Sydney Opera House, Lower Concourse, Bennelong Point, Sydney. 9247 1666. operabar.com.au
MUNICH BRAUHAUS
PALMER & CO
It’s Oktoberfest all year round at this Bavarianstyle bar in the heart of The Rocks. Enjoy their premium imported Bavarian beers and delicious German menu which includes all things pork, including schnitzels, sausages, pork belly and their famous crispy pork knuckle. All these Bavarian treats are served to you in a traditional bier hall atmosphere with staff dressed in traditional costumes too! Cnr Playfair and Argyle Streets, The Rocks. 9247 7785. munichbrauhaus.com
Step back in time to a prohibition-era bar at Palmer & Co. Hidden down a laneway, this basement speakeasy is the place to go for classy cocktails like the ‘El Presidente’ or ‘The Capone’. Be sure to check out the stylish staff decked out in 1920s-style fashion. Abercrombie Lane, Sydney. 9114 7315. merivale. com.au/palmerandco POCKET BAR
As its name suggests, Pocket Bar is a small bar located in the back streets of Darlinghurst. The intimate venue serves up
63
Scene
SE ARCH THE CIT Y / For more listings, see wheretraveler.com/sydney
bar food like cheese and meat platters, and delicious polenta truffle fries. 13 Burton Street, Darlinghurst. 9380 7002. houseofpocket.com. au/bars/pocket-bardarlinghurst/venue-details/ PS40
Lauded as one of Sydney’s best bars, PS40 is well-known for making their own sodas with natural, local and native ingredients. Try one of their specialised cocktails at their very own small bar in the heart of the city. Shop 2, 40 King Street, Sydney. ps-soda.com THE SQUIRE’S LANDING
Head to James Squire’s flagship microbrewery in Sydney, The Squire’s Landing. With incredible panoramic views of the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge it is the perfect spot for a meal and drink by the harbour. Grab a glass of your favourite James Squire brew or try one of their limited releases. The Squire’s Landing’s Head Brewer also crafts exclusive small batch brews onsite, so there’s always something new and unique to try. Northern end of the Overseas Passenger Terminal, Circular Quay. 8014 5661. thesquireslanding.com.au STITCH BAR
Enter through the faux seamstress shop and you’ll find Stitch Bar hidden down some stairs. Try the American diner menu, think hot dogs and tacos, while sipping on some curiously named cocktails like “That one time at band camp”. 61 York Street, Sydney. 9279 0380. houseofpocket. com.au/bars/stitch-barsydney-cbd/venue-details/
64
W HE RE I OCTO B E R 20 18
SMOKE ROOFTOP BAR
Located atop Sydney hotspot, Barangaroo House, you’ll find Smoke Rooftop Bar. It’s the place to head to watch the sunset, cocktail in hand. Match your drinks with a bar menu of delectable snacks, including brisket doughnuts and their famous sea urchin and orange jam toastie. 35 Barangaroo Avenue, Sydney. 8587 5400. barangaroohouse.com.au ZEPHYR SKY BAR
Overlooking Darling Harbour and Barangaroo, the Hyatt Regency’s Zephyr Sky Bar is a unique rooftop destination. It is known for its cutting-edge “levitating” drinks presentation, where seasonally-inspired creations are served directly to your table in a smoking levitating glass. Custom vermouth-inspired cocktails, vintage rums and signature drinks such as the Strawberry Spritz and freshly-pressed Grapefruit Martini can be paired with mouthwatering snacks. Hyatt Regency Sydney, Level 12, 161 Sussex Street, Sydney. 8099 1234. zephyrbarsydney.com ZETA BAR
Hilton Sydney’s Zeta Bar is an exclusive escape in the heart of the city. Try their award-winning cocktails, or sample their sharing platters, pizza or bar snacks. Level 4, Hilton Sydney, 488 George Street, Sydney. 9265 6070. zetabar.com.au
BOWLING
ARCHIE BROTHERS CIRQUE ELECTRIQ
The party is well and truly alive at Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq. Think a fun fairground vibe mixed with arcade games, tenpin bowling, laser tag and
Dodgem cars. Head to the in-house diner for burgers, monster shakes and fries. 75 O’Riordan Street, Alexandria. archiebrothers.com.au KINGPIN DARLING HARBOUR
Centrally located at Harbourside Shopping Centre, you’ll find Kingpin Darling Harbour. They offer 20 bowling lanes across four zones as well as laser tag, arcade games and pool tables. Enjoy an electric atmosphere of food and fun—may the best bowler win! Harbourside Shopping Centre, 2-10 Darling Drive, Sydney. 13 26 95. kingpinbowling.com.au STRIKE KING STREET WHARF
With ten bowling alleys, karaoke and escape rooms, Strike Bowling at King Street Wharf is the place to be for a good time. Dine on pizza, chicken wings and hot dogs or kick back with a cocktail in the waterside lounge before you head to the bowling alley and score a strike or two! 22 The Promenade, King Street Wharf, Sydney. 1300 787 453. strikebowling.com.au
BREWERIES
BATCH BREWING COMPANY
Sydney’s own Batch Brewing Company have made quite a name for themselves with their collection of small batch hand crafted brews. They have a wide range on tap, plus more varieties bottled, so there’s sure to be something to take your fancy, from their ‘West Coast IPA’ to the ‘Marrickville Roots Ginger Ale’. 44 Sydenham Road, Marrickville. 9550 5432. batchbrewingco.com.au
CASINOS
THE STAR SYDNEY
The Star Sydney is a huge entertainment complex, and a memorable night out for all. From their finedining restaurants, cool bars, luxury boutiques, live music, large theatre and world-class casino, there’s always something to see and do at The Star. 80 Pyrmont Street, Pyrmont. 9777 9000. star.com.au/sydney
CLASSICAL MUSIC & DANCE
THE AUSTRALIAN BALLET
The Australian Ballet is Australia’s premier ballet company and regularly performs new and classical works at Sydney’s home of the arts, the Sydney Opera House. Committed to artistic excellence and led by Artistic Director David McAllister, The Australian Ballet is renowned on the world stage. See the likes of Principal Artist Amber Scott in action, whilst recent international guest ballerinas include the likes of America’s Misty Copeland. Performances at the Sydney Opera House, Sydney. 1300 369 741. australianballet.com.au BANGARRA DANCE THEATRE
Bangarra is one of Australia’s leading dance companies bringing contemporary Indigenous culture to the world’s stage. With a focus on culture and music, Bangarra is led by Artistic Director Stephen Page and features performers with a proud Aboriginal and/ or Torres Strait Islander background from across the country. Pier 4, 15 Hickson Road, Walsh Bay. 9251 5333. bangarra.com.au
SE ARCH THE CIT Y / For more listings, see wheretraveler.com/sydney
OPERA AUSTRALIA
Australia’s premier opera company, Opera Australia, brings world-class productions to the Sydney Opera House stage. From the likes of “La Boheme” and “Aida” to musicals like “Evita” and “The King and I”, Opera Australia’s varied program is a testament to their artistic depth. With intricate costumes and astonishing staging, a night with Opera Australia is one to remember. Performances at the Sydney Opera House, Sydney. 9318 8200. opera.org.au SYDNEY DANCE COMPANY
Sydney Dance Company brings modern Australian dance to the stage. Led by Artistic Director Rafael Bonachela, the company regularly performs original works and programs by leading choreographers from around the world. The Wharf, Pier 4, 15 Hickson Road, Walsh Bay. 9221 4811. sydneydancecompany.com SYDNEY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
Led by Chief Conductor and Artistic Director David Robertson, the Sydney Symphony Orchestra offers a wide variety of world-class concerts and events. Enjoy classical performances of Beethoven and Mozart, modern pop and rock performers accompanied by the Symphony, and iconic movie soundtracks brought to life in rich, vibrant sounds. Performances at the Sydney Opera House and City Recital Hall, Sydney. 8215 4600. sydneysymphony.com
DISTILLERIES
ARCHIE ROSE
Archie Rose is Sydney’s first independent distillery in over 160 years, producing gin, vodka and a collection
of whiskies. This fully operational distillery also offers patrons a trendy on-site bar. Surrounded by whisky barrels, the bar offers the full range of Archie Rose products in a unique space of copper touches and relaxed charm. 85 Dunning Avenue, Rosebery. 8458 2300. archierose.com.au
LIVE MUSIC
ENMORE THEATRE
Located in the inner-west suburb of Newtown, the Enmore Theatre is Sydney’s home of live music. From the latest indie bands to big name musicians, the Enmore is the place to see the best bands in town from local Aussie acts to international stars. The venue also hosts numerous stand-up comedians and comedy events throughout the year. 118–132 Enmore Road, Newtown. 9550 3666. enmoretheatre.com.au METRO THEATRE
This intimate theatre on George Street is an iconic live music venue. You know you’ve made it in Sydney’s music scene when you headline a gig here. Whether you like rock, indie, alternative, hip hop or a bit of everything, there’s always a diverse line-up of acts on stage at the Metro. 624 George Street, Sydney. 9550 3666. metrotheatre.com.au STATE THEATRE
From grand musicals and stand-up comedy to classic concerts and pop stars, the majestic State Theatre in the heart of the city has seen it all. This iconic venue opened in 1929 and features elements of Gothic and Art Deco architecture. The magnificent interiors and beautiful chandeliers
are a must-see. The State Theatre also hosts movie premieres and is home to the annual Sydney Film Festival. 49 Market Street, Sydney. 9373 6655. statetheatre.com.au SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE
It doesn’t get much better than seeing live music at the sublime Sydney Opera House. From the hallowed halls of the Concert Hall, to a summer night out in the open-air of the Forecourt, it’s always a very special experience. Choose from cutting-edge musical acts to classical symphonies and everything in between. Bennelong Point, Sydney. 9250 7777. sydneyoperahouse.com
THEATRE
BELL SHAKESPEARE
Bell Shakespeare is Australia’s premiere theatre company performing the works of William Shakespeare. Founded by the legendary John Bell, the company has been bringing Shakespeare’s words to audiences since 1990, always pushing boundaries and challenging expectations. Sydney Opera House, Sydney. 8298 9000. bellshakespeare.com.au BELVOIR
One of Sydney’s most acclaimed theatre companies, Belvoir, is based in the inner-city suburb of Surry Hills. Delivering an innovative program of dynamic Australian theatre featuring some of the country’s best actors, playwrights and directors, across both the Upstairs and Downstairs stages. 18 and 25 Belvoir Street, Surry Hills. 9699 3444. belvoir.com.au
Scene
HAYES THEATRE COMPANY
For the best in Australian musical theatre head to Hayes Theatre Company in Potts Point. This small theatre is home to some big name shows, programming new and innovative musical theatre and cabaret. Hayes Theatre Co is a not for profit company, named after Australian musical theatre legend, Nancye Hayes. 19 Greenknowe Avenue, Potts Point. 8065 7337. hayestheatre.com.au SYDNEY THEATRE COMPANY
Sydney Theatre Company (STC) presents a diverse range of shows throughout the year from classic plays to new, Australian productions at its own theatres at The Wharf and at the nearby Roslyn Packer Theatre. Australian acting luminaries to grace the STC stage in recent years include Cate Blanchett, Rose Byrne, Judy Davis and Hugo Weaving. The Wharf theatres, Pier 4, Hickson Road, Walsh Bay. 9250 1777. sydneytheatre.com.au
WINE BARS
HANDPICKED CELLAR DOOR SYDNEY
In the heart of funky Chippendale, you’ll find Handpicked Wines’ urban cellar door. Stop by for a wine tasting or try a tasting flight and uncover new wines from different regions. Enjoy a selection of cheese and charcuterie, and take home some wine from the Wine Shop. 50 Kensington Street, Chippendale. 9392 9190. handpickedwines.com.au
65
REPRODUCED WITH PERMISSION OF TRANSPORT NSW.
Map 1
66
W HE RE I OCTO B E R 20 18
TRANSPORT
REPRODUCED WITH PERMISSION OF TRANSPORT NSW.
Maps
67
68
W HE RE I OCTO B E R 20 18
UE
EXC
WULU
WA GUL
Tower 2
EXC
AVEN
GE P
UE
HAN
LAC
E
3 Tower
MERCANTILE WALK
OO
14
ST LEAN
NEAPO SHIPWRIGHT WALK LAC GE P HAN
NGAR BARA LK
13
WULU
Tower To 1 wer 3
AVEN
12
WA GUL
WAT ANTILE WALK MERC
OO
11
Tower AY2 S QU ERMAN
NGAR
10
SHIPWRIGHT WALK NAPO
Tower 1
AY S QU MAN WATER
C
ST LEAN
9
B
BARA
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
A
West Hotel Sydney
West Hotel Sydney
D
E
F
G
H
I
2018
Where Australia Pty Ltd. Phone 9555 7477.
L
2018
K
Where Australia Pty Ltd. Phone 9555 7477.
J
Map 2 CITY
LK
Maps
S Y D N E Y C I T Y M A P L EG E N D Art Gallery of NSW .................... I9
National Maritime Museum ...B11
Australian Museum ................H13
Paddy’s Markets ....................D18
Barangaroo Reserve.................B4
Powerhouse Museum ...........C18
BridgeClimb..............................D3
Queen Victoria Building.......... E12
Capitol Theatre ....................... F17
Royal Botanic
Circular Quay ............................ F4
Garden, Sydney ........................H7
Chinese Gardens....................D16
SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium...C11
Chifley Plaza ............................. F8
St Andrew’s Cathedral ........... E14
Cockle Bay .............................C13
St Mary’s Cathedral................G11
Darling Harbour ......................C12
State Library of NSW ...............G9
General Post Office................ E10
State Theatre.......................... E12
Hyde Park ...............................G13
Sydney Central Plaza.............. E11
Hyde Park Barracks
Sydney Harbour Bridge ............ E1
Museum .................................G10
Sydney Observatory.................D5
Harbourside
Sydney Opera House ...............G2
Darling Harbour ......................B13
Sydney Tower ........................ F11
King Street Wharf...................C10
Sydney Town Hall .................. E13
Madame Tussauds Sydney ....C11
Sydney Visitors Centre ............ E6
Market City............................. E18
The Galeries ........................... F13
Martin Place ............................. E9
Theatre Royal ......................... F10
Museum of Contemporary
The Star ..................................A11
Art Australia .............................. E5
Westfield Sydney ................... F11
Museum of Sydney.................. F7
WILD LIFE Sydney .................C11
Pick up your SYDNEY CONCIERGE MAP from your concierge today! LOCAL INFORMATION ON HAND
SY CONC DNEY
Four Points Sydney Central Park
Four Points Sydney Central Park
f r ee c
IERGE
Winte r 2018
i t y ma
p
MAP
W com ith ou plim r ents
w her e
travele
Les C lefs
For bo ok
r.com
d’Or A ustra e your lia hote
ings, se
21
20
19
18
17
16
15
l conc ierge!
wheretraveler.com 69
70
AVIS CAR RENTAL
AVIS CAR RENTAL
W HE RE I OCTO B E R 20 18
BLUE MOUNTAINS
BLUE MOUNTAINS
NATIONAL PARK
NATIONAL PARK
MARRAMARRA NATIONAL PARK MARRAMARRA NATIONAL PARK
MAROOTA STATE FOREST MAROOTA STATE FOREST
DHARUG NATIONAL PARK
DHARUG NATIONAL PARK
KU-RING-GAI CHASE NATIONAL PARK
KU-RING-GAI CHASE NATIONAL PARK
BRISBANE WATER NATIONAL PARK
BRISBANE WATER NATIONAL PARK
MANLY DAM
MANLY DAM
Map 3 SUBURBS
Calmsley Hill City Farm
Calmsley Hill City Farm
ROYAL NATIONAL PARK
ROYAL NATIONAL PARK
BOTANY BAY NATIONAL PARK
BOTANY BAY NATIONAL PARK
CENTENNIAL PARK
CENTENNIAL PARK
Maps
DRIVE IN STYLE
Rent from our Signature Series range, now including the BMW 7 Series.
Free hotel delivery, ask your concierge.
avis.com.au
136 333
71
WHERE IN SYDNEY
From classic Aussie meat pies to the all-American diner experience, Sydney has it all. There is a reason these old-school dishes are still so popular today! Here are our top three favourite retro cafés in Sydney. For more great cafés in Sydney visit wheretraveler.com
72
WHE RE I OCTO B E R 2 018
Daisy’s Milkbar This pastel haven is inspired by the oldschool Aussie milkbar. Daisy’s serves up all the classic favourites from jaffles and sausage rolls to milkshakes and ice cream sundaes. Try the meat pie jaffle or opt for the infamous Chiko roll. They also offer a "low tea" with all your childhood favourites, like fairy bread and chocolate crackles. There is also a gift store that sells throwback knick knacks and lolly bags for the road. Friendly service and delicious food make a visit to Daisy’s a must.
Doughbox Diner Doughbox Diner takes inspiration from 1950s America but they provide a little twist! Only here can you find the original and famous handheld crepe cone! There are 20 different combinations to choose from including the ‘Down Under’ and ‘Haloumi Bite’, and even burgercones. Grab a malted thickshake and step back in time. Soda floats, onion rings and banana splits also make an appearance on the decadent menu. It can get busy on weekends, but is definitely worth the wait!
340 Stanmore Road, Petersham. 8065 3466. daisysmilkbar.com
137 Enmore Road, Enmore. 9565 1995. doughboxdiner.com.au
Harry’s Café de Wheels Harry’s Café de Wheels is a Sydney institution. Setting out to preserve classic 1940s Aussie flavours, Harry’s has an extensive selection of meat pies to choose from. They also sell hotdogs, sausage rolls and a selection of sweet pastries. With multiple locations across Sydney, including Haymarket and Darling Harbour, you must try their famous Pie and Peas or opt for the Aussie staple, Pie and Sauce. Hay Street, corner of George Street, Haymarket. (Also located at Darling Harbour, Tempe and Woolloomooloo). 9281 6292. harryscafedewheels.com.au
THE LOW TEA AT DAISY'S MILKBAR, PHOTO: CHRISTINE KNIGHT.
We’re addicted to retro cafés
Natural Attraction ADORN YOURSELF WITH NATURAL BEAUTY
SYDNEY
MELBOURNE
60 Pitt Street T. 02 9247 6344
119 Swanston Street T. 03 9662 3524
WWW.NATIONALOPAL.COM
FREE OPAL GIFT
FREE OPAL GIFT
FREE OPAL GIFT
THE NATIONAL OPAL COLLECTION
Overseas visitors present this voucher for your FREE GIFT!
ST
Australia’s finest tax-free Opal Centre
THE NATIONAL OPAL COLLECTION
THE NATIONAL OPAL COLLECTION
THE NATIONAL OPAL COLLECTION
60 Pitt Street, Sydney (02) 9247 6344 info@nationalopal.com
60 Pitt Street, Sydney (02) 9247 6344 info@nationalopal.com
60 Pitt Street, Sydney (02) 9247 6344 info@nationalopal.com
Not available with any other offer. One per overseas visitor with passport and flight ticket.
Not available with any other offer. One per overseas visitor with passport and flight ticket.
WHERE
Australia’s finest tax-free Opal Centre
WHERE
Australia’s finest tax-free Opal Centre
Not available with any other offer. One per overseas visitor with passport and flight ticket.
WHERE
BOND ST
NG
ST NG RI
ST NG RI SP
The National Opal Collection
M ST
BRIDGE LN
GRESHA
ST
PITT ST
GEORGE ST
BOND ST
BRIDGE
M ST
The National Opal Collection
GRESHA
BRIDGE LN
Circular Quay PITT ST
GEORGE ST
BOND ST
M ST
The National Opal Collection
ST BRIDGE
GRESHA
GEORGE ST
BRIDGE LN
60 Pitt Street, Sydney. Tel: 9247 6344. www.nationalopal.com
Circular Quay PITT ST
ST BRIDGE
T N O C
Overseas visitors present this voucher for your FREE GIFT!
SP
Circular Quay
opal jewellery. At The National Opal Collection the designers carefully select each opal and together with talented craftsmen create timeless masterpieces befitting these fireworks from nature. Tax free concessions are available for overseas travellers and entry is free.
RI
Overseas visitors present this voucher for your FREE GIFT!
As you enter you are surrounded by dioramas of Australia’s outback and then taken through the opal story, unfolding through time from the dinosaur age to modern day opal production. Exhibits show how, on rare occasions, the bones of prehistoric creatures can become opalised. Adjoining the museum is the spectacular showroom displaying Australia’s largest range of exquisite opals and
SP
Part museum, part showroom, the National Opal Collection is one of Australia’s most fascinating tourist attractions. Not only does it have a huge array of opals and jewellery for sale, but it also shows how opals came to be formed over millions of years and how they are mined today. Here you will discover the incredible link between the opal and the dinosaur.
Indulge yourself with beautiful Opals, Pearls and Pink Diamonds at the store locals prefer...
149 York Street, corner with 80 Druitt Street (opposite QVB and Town Hall), Sydney Tel: 9269 0898 www.vollejewellery.com Open Mon–Sat 9.30am–7pm, Sun 10.30am–6.30pm
THE CELLINI MOONPHASE A unique interpretation of the cycle of the moon, combining classical elegance with a contemporary touch. It doesn’t just tell time. It tells history.
CELLINI moonphase