Avril (she/her) grew up reading food reviews before school. She learnt about balancing flavours during cooking classes in Indonesia with her mum, dived into the importance of heritage on food tours in Hawaii, and fell in love with fine dining after going to Aria at 15. No two meals were ever the same in the Treasure household, and some of her most special memories are with her loved ones are around a table laughing, eating (probably too much salt and butter) and drinking (anything, though she loves a Negroni).

Avril studied media and communications at the University of Notre Dame Sydney and graduated with a Bachelor of Journalism. She’s been a freelance lifestyle writer for a decade, writing for the likes of Broadsheet, Concrete Playground, Delicious, Urban List NZ, and the Saturday Telegraph’s At Home magazine on food and drink, travel, culture and gardening. Avril also had a brief stint in food PR, has lived in New Zealand and travelled to every continent bar Antarctica (though, it’s on the list).

Throughout uni and her freelancing days, Avril worked in hospitality here in Sydney for close to eight years, from waitressing to hosting, enduring many a (hungover) 12-hour shift. Her respect and appreciation for chefs, as well as the front and back of house, was cemented during this time, and her love of wining and dining, grew.

Avril joined Time Out Sydney in August 2022 in the Creative Solutions team, became the Food & Drink Writer in March 2023, and the Food & Drink Editor in January 2024. In her role, Avril eats and drinks her way throughout Sydney to inspire people to get out, explore and eat and drink well. Because life’s too short for lacklustre meals. She has never loved a job more. And she probably still eats too much salt and butter.

Avril Treasure

Food & Drink Editor, Time Out Sydney

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Articles (272)

The best dancefloors in Sydney

Dancefloors come in all shapes and sizes in Sydney – sticky-floored pubs can double up as heaving rave caves, small bars morph into late-night party dens on sporadic Wednesdays, and on most Friday nights, warehouses across Sydney's Inner West transform into laser-lit super-clubs (though we can't spill too much on that front). Sydney cops a lot of flack for its nightlife, but we think it's all about just looking in the right places. Here are our picks of the most reliable dancefloors to break some shapes in the Harbour City right now. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, travel inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Looking for somewhere more chill to whet your whistle? Here are our favourite hidden bars in the Harbour City.Want a live show? These are the best bars and pubs with live music in Sydney.

The best places for pasta in Sydney

Whether it’s a simple spaghetti with garlic, oil and chilli, ravioli stuffed to the high heavens, or lovingly layered lasagne, few foods give us the feels quite like pasta. Let’s be real – Sydney’s Italian restaurant game is seriously strong on all fronts, but when the hour calls for carbs, these are the spots that turn flour, eggs and water into small miracles. Time out Sydney's food writers and pasta lovers – including Food & Drink Editor Avril Treasure – have smashed their fair share of pasta in town, and here are our favourites. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Need an aperitivo before you chow down? Knock back a cocktail at one of the best bars in Sydney. After a slice of two? Here are the best pizza joints in Sydney.

The 72 best cheap eats in Sydney right now

Autumn 2025 update: Life in Sydney is fun and fabulous, but it can also be expensive. The good news is you can dine out affordably if you know where to look. Keep this guide handy next time your friends suggest a catch-up. As for me, I’ll be hitting up old-school Italian spot Bill & Toni's, Emma’s Snack Bar (found in my new ’hood, Enmore), and for banging tacos, I’m heading to Mami’s in Bondi. Going out for a meal is sometimes a big occasion, worth the splurge. But it doesn't have to be that way. From banh mi to tonkotsu ramen, biang biang noodles to vegan burgers, and pretty much everything else in between, some of Sydney's greatest culinary hits are the cheapest. Time Out Sydney's local food writers, including Food & Drink Editor Avril Treasure, have eaten their way around town to bring you this list, and while cheap isn't what it used to be, there are still lots of excellent affordable venues to check out. These are the ones well worth their salt. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Want to spend less at the big-ticket players? Check out our cheap fine-dining hacks.

The best Italian restaurants in Sydney

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

The best vegan restaurants in Sydney

People are choosing plant-based eating for its softer step on the Earth, concerns about animal cruelty, and the health benefits of vegetable-rich diets. Plus, there's been a rise in flexitarian diets – you might not be a full-time vegan, but where you can, you opt for more plants on your plate. Only a few years ago, vegan dining meant a whole lot of pulses and sprouts, but now Sydney is home to plant-based burger shops, classic Italian pizzerias that showcase cheese and meat alternatives, gelato shops that favour coconut bases, and a growing contingent of fine diners offering fancy degustations for vegans. Below, we've rounded up the best vegan restaurants in Sydney. Cool with eggs and dairy? Check out the best vegetarian restaurants in Sydney. Got a mixed group? Head to one of the best restaurants in Sydney. On a budget? Have a look at the best cheap eats in Sydney. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Want to shop sustainably? Check out our guide to ethical shopping in Sydney here.

Where to play two-up in Sydney on ANZAC Day 2025

There are many ways that countries around the world honour their veterans and the sacrifices they make as members of the armed forces. One of the ways we do it here in Australia is with the fairly odd, gloriously raucous tradition of ANZAC Day two-up – betting on the flipping of two coins.First, of course, Sydney starts ANZAC Day with the big Dawn Service, which will take place this year at the Cenotaph in Martin Place, commencing at 4.20am. The ANZAC Day March through the Sydney CBD kicks off at 9am and ends with a 12.30pm commemoration service by the Pool of Remembrance at the ANZAC Memorial in Hyde Park. Then, after you've formally paid your respects, it's time for the coin toss. From rooftop parties to coastal rings and a beer garden with a grandstand for big-group viewing, we've scoured Sydney for the best two-up venues in town.Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, things to do and travel inspo, straight to your inbox. Looking for somewhere else to grab a drink? Check out the best bars in Sydney right now, and these are all of our favourite pubs in the city.

Sustainable restaurants, bars and cafés in Sydney

The word sustainability gets thrown around a lot – and so it should. We know our oceans are filled with plastic, the Earth is warming each day, and weather conditions are becoming more and more destructive. The good news is that Sydney’s restaurants, bars and cafés are taking sustainability seriously – not just talking the talk by posting an Instagram tile, but doing the hard, often more costly and time-consuming work to do their bit to care for our planet. From cutting down on emissions to drastically reducing waste, reusing water, working with local suppliers, cooking with whole animals and using biodegradable packaging, Sydney’s top spots are paving the way for a greener future. Below, you’ll find some of our favourite sustainable venues in Sydney. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED READ: These are the best vegetarian restaurants in Sydney.

The 72 best cafés in Sydney right now

Autumn 2025 update: Not sure where the start of the year went? Same. Embrace the change in season with brekkie and a hot coffee at one of our fave Sydney cafés. My current picks include a delightful new spot from the Ursula’s Paddington team called Cafe Cressida, Manly’s go-to Noon, and the Euro-style Ken's Continental in Potts Point. Sydneysiders are café people. We're constantly on the hunt for the city's best coffee and we love nothing more than donning our finest sport-luxe activewear and catching up with mates on a weekend morning over eggs, fritters and crusty artisan sourdough. So, whether it's a reward for tackling one of Sydney's most beautiful walks, an indulgent hangover fix after a night at one of the city's best bars, or a workday coffee stop, these are the best Sydney cafés, according to our in-the-know Time Out Sydney writers, including Food & Drink Editor Avril Treasure. We'll have one B&E roll, please. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Is it lunch time? Check out our guide to Sydney's best restaurants right now.

The 50 best things to do in Australia

You know the landmarks and the laid-back culture, but there are plenty more things to do in Australia than kissing koalas and yelling ‘g’day mate’. Australia is a nature lover’s paradise, with highly sought-after food experiences and an impressive cultural heritage to boot. Our team (including Travel & News Editor Melissa Woodley) have sifted through every attraction, experience, event and landmark our nation has to offer and put together the only Aussie bucket list you'll ever need. Whether you want to get amongst art parties in small coastal cities, see fairy penguins scurry across sandy beaches or watch the sunrise over Sydney Harbour from a kayak, there’s so much to explore across this incredible country. Here's our guide to all the best things you need to do in Australia right now. 🇦🇺 The top tourist attractions in Australia🌈 Australia's most beautiful destinations🌊 The best beaches in Australia

The best Thai restaurants in Sydney

In Sydney, there’s good Thai and there’s great Thai, and we’re all about the latter. From the best deep-fried snapper to the finest pad Thai outside of Chiang Mai, Time Out Sydney's local food writers, including Food & Drink Editor Avril Treasure (who has spent weeks happily eating her way around Bangkok, Krabi and Phuket), have rounded up our list of the best places to get your Sydney-Samui on in town. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Want more? Check out the Secrets of Thaitown Food Tour here. Craving carbs? Try one of Sydney's best Italian restaurants. RECOMMENDED: The absolute best restaurants in Sydney

The 40 best happy hours in Sydney right now

We all know sh*t’s expensive right now. But the good news? You can still head out in Sydney and have a cracking time without it costing you an arm and a leg, thanks to our top-notch cheap eats, ripper steaks for $25 and under, and quality feeds for $20 and under. Plus, with most bars and restaurants offering happy hours, there’s still plenty of affordable boozing to be had. I’m out and about most nights for work, and I’m always on the lookout for great happy hours – ones that save your hard-earned cash, include a variety of options, and get bonus points if there are cheaper snacks available too. The catch? You might need to knock off work a little early, but I reckon you deserve it (sorry, bosses). Below, you’ll find the very best happy hour deals in Sydney, where you can snag a schooner from $6, tasty bites from $5 and cocktails from $10. It’s fun you can feel good about. I hope you have a happy time during these happy hours – I certainly have. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. After more fun for less? Here's our guide to the best free things to do in Sydney, the best op shops, and (of course) Sydney's best cheap eats. Thirsty for more? Here are the best bars in Sydney right now.

Where can I get booze on Good Friday in Sydney?

Finding booze on Good Friday can be a little tricky. NSW has strict laws on alcohol sales on Christmas and Good Friday, which boil down to the following: absolutely no takeaway alcohol, and licensed venues can only serve on premises from midday-10pm. So, in other words, bottleshops are closed. And while pubs are open, they can't serve takeaway alcohol. But – there's one loophole: venues that have a producer's license (ie: that brew/distill/ferment) may be able to sell their wares. So get ready to stock up on fresh growlers of cracking local brews, some craft spirits or even pre-mixed cocktails. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED READS: Want more? Check out our guide to the best hot cross buns here. Love craft beer? Check out our guide to Sydney’s best brewery bars. If wine is more your thing, head to the best wine bars in the city.

Listings and reviews (408)

Mövenpick Hotel Melbourne

My friend texts me asking where I’m staying the night. “Mövenpick,” I reply. “Isn’t that an ice-cream brand?” they reply. And they’re right. Although many associate the Swiss company with scoops of creamy, icy goodness, Mövenpick actually began as a restaurant in 1948. The standalone ice-cream brand came next in the 1960s, before Swiss hotelier Ueli Prager opened two hotels near Zürich in 1973. The rest, as they say, is history. In 2018, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts was acquired by Accor, and these days there are more than 80 hotels dotted across Australia, Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Asia – including the one I’m at right now: Mövenpick Hotel Melbourne on Spencer. And you know what? The hotel – just like the ice cream – slaps. (Love you, pistachio.) Why stay at Mövenpick Hotel Melbourne? Mövenpick Hotel Melbourne was the second property to open in Australia when it first welcomed guests in June 2021, following Mövenpick Hotel Hobart. Situated within the six-level podium of Melbourne's Premier Tower at the corner of Spencer and Bourke Streets (and just across the street from Southern Cross Station) Mövenpick is an ace place to stay for those keen on exploring the city and beyond. Sports fans will be pleased to know it’s also 500 metres away from Marvel Stadium. Plus, the stylish hotel is home to a 24-hour gym, glistening pool, modern Asian-inspired restaurant Miss Mi, and perhaps the best thing of all: a daily complimentary chocolate hour. How sweet’s that? What are the

Grand Hyatt Melbourne

There’s an earthy brown and blue snake out my window. Its thick body gleams in the sunlight as it curves and slithers around the trees. I’m not, of course, talking about the kind you wouldn’t want to come face-to-face with in the bush, but Melbourne’s iconic Yarra River. It looks remarkable from this view – 30-something floors above ground. The whole city does, really. That’s because I’m staying at Grand Hyatt Melbourne, which boasts a prime CBD address on Collins Street and some of the best views of Melbourne I’ve seen. Down below, there’s the whimsical Forum and Fed Square. I spot the trademark dome of Flinders Street Station, and in the distance, I can see the MCG. And now, it’s time to hop into a fluffy white robe and drink up those views – alongside a glass of chilled bubbles. Why stay at the Grand Hyatt Melbourne? Grand Hyatt Melbourne is one of the city’s landmark hotels, offering elegance and five-star hospitality in the heart of Melbourne. As well as its grid-worthy views, one of the best things about this luxe spot is its stellar location. How good is it being close to the action when you’re on holidays – where you can lace up and immerse yourself in the energy and magic of the streets? With Grand Hyatt Melbourne being walking distance to excellent restaurants and bars, top-notch attractions, and easy access to trains and trams, you can do just that here. And in case the name didn’t give it away – it’s also a pretty luxe experience. Whether you’re visiting Melbourne

Porkfat

✍️ Time Out Sydney never writes starred restaurant and bar reviews from hosted experiences – Time Out covers restaurant and bar bills, and anonymously reviews, so that readers can trust our critique. Find out more, here. Update: Swinging open its doors in 2022, Porkfat is one of Sydney’s best Thai restaurants. Chef-owner Narin 'Jack' Kulasai and Tanya Boon are as kind and warm as they come – in fact, the whole team is – and the food here is so damn delicious, even Nigella Lawson is a fan. There are always new specials to try, but we always have to order Porkfat’s larb. Featuring ground pork coated in pork fat, smoked chilli and roasted rice powder, with snake beans, cucumber, iceberg and fragrant herbs for freshness and crunch, it’s a flavour and texture bomb. ***** We’re about three mouthfuls into a brilliant dish of deep-fried barramundi with a mango salad – a tumble of sweet fruit matchsticks intertwined with fresh mint and coriander, lemongrass and crunchy cashews licked with nahm jim dressing sitting on top of crisp, succulent fillets of barramundi. I look up and see my dining companion with his eyes closed, hands at his temples, tiny droplets of sweat forming on his forehead. The truth is my nose has started to run like someone on a Codral commercial and the room is beginning to look hazy. It’s abundantly clear the chefs at Porkfat mean serious business, and I, unlike perhaps my date (who at this point are now onto their fourth glass of water) am absolutely here for it

Single O Surry Hills

✍️ Time Out Sydney never writes starred restaurant and bar reviews from hosted experiences – Time Out covers restaurant and bar bills, and anonymously reviews, so that readers can trust our critique. Find out more, here. The vibe Purveyors of excellent specialty coffee and good times, Single O has been a pioneer of Sydney’s café scene since it opened with a bang in 2003. Found on a cool, industrial-style corner space on Reservoir Street in Surry Hills, this place pumps with both Sydneysiders and tourists from morning until it closes at 3pm. Sustainability has been at the heart of Single O since its inception, with the team committed to sourcing ethically and environmentally responsible beans. They also have a solar-powered roastery in Botany, co-created an innovative milk-on-tap system that swapped plastic milk bottles with 10L bladders – creating an 80 per cent reduction in plastic wares – and their current mission is to halve carbon emissions by 2026 and achieve Net Zero by 2030. How good’s that? The food Single O has an all-day menu, which is great news if you’ve had a big one and still feel like eggs and bacon at noon – just a note that the kitchen closes at 2.15pm. Expect jazzed-up café fare featuring Aussie ingredients and Asian flavours, like their take on eggs Benedict with smoked pork, yuzu hollandaise, cucumber, mint, coriander, pickled apple and chilli oil. Or try the crisp corn fritters, which come topped with romesco sauce, avo, guindilla and a coriander vinaigr

Newcastle Food Month

We’re big fans of Newcastle at Time Out. Located a little over two hours north of Sydney, the seaside city boasts pumping surf and pristine ocean pools – including the largest in the Southern Hemisphere – and a vibrant township, minus the traffic. The region is the birthplace of some seriously talented chefs (hello, Josh Niland and Brett Graham), and boasts a cracking food and wine scene. It’s also home to Newcastle Food Month – a month-long celebration of the best things in life: great food, booze and your people. The good news? Newcastle Food Month is returning for its fifth year, with the festival kicking off April 1. If it’s been a while between visits – or if you’re due for a weekend getaway – Newy this April is where it's at. This year’s festival will feature more than 80 local venues – including Time Out favourites Arno Deli, Humbug, Flotilla, Frenchie and Alfie’s Italian – spanning newcomers like old-school cocktail bar Roxanne and old faithfuls like on-the-water Scratchleys. More than 70 feature events will come to life throughout April, from fun-loving street parties to boozy long lunches, as well as 50 plate dates. Not sure what we’re on about? Plate date is where Newcastle’s cafés, restaurants and bars put their best foot forward, offering brekkie, lunch or dinner and a drink for $30. It’s a fab way to tick off the places on your hit list, and revisit the OGs, all while doing a food tour of Newcastle. And if you don't feel like cooking for the month (and doing th

Quest Orange

I’ve woken up with a smile on my face for a few reasons. For one, I’m here in Orange for Food Week – Australia’s longest-running regional food festival – and today’s my second-favourite day of the year: Forage. Picture this: 1,500 well-dressed, Country Road-type people traversing Orange’s picturesque vineyards, enjoying tasty snacks from the region’s best producers and sipping on delicious drops while slowly getting more and more tipsy. The second reason? I feel fresh and clear-headed, which I probably don’t deserve considering the dent my friends made at Hey Rosey and Hotel Canobolas the night before. And the third? I’m staying at Quest Orange, a modern accommodation offering on Kite Street. Because I’m right in town, I can walk to a nearby café for my morning oat cap without having to get in the car, find a park or – worse – get public transport (sorry, bus lovers). Plus, the sunlight streaming through the windows right now looks really pretty. See? Lots to be happy about. Why stay at Quest Orange? Quest Orange has 77 room options, ranging from studios to one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments – making it an ideal and affordable option whether you’re travelling solo for fun or work, on a friend’s trip, or away with the gang on a family holiday. It’s walking distance to the centre of town, so the only driving you’ll need to do is to the nearby wineries. Got a furry best friend? Quest also lets you bring your dog – just be sure to let them know when booking. I’m also a fan o

Stickybeak Festival

Keep Friday, April 4 and Saturday 5 free in your diary, as Stickybeak Festival – a two-day food, booze and music shindig spearheaded by the legends behind Archie Rose and P&V Wine – is once again returning for its fourth year of delicious fun. This year, the fest will be coming to life at The Goods Line in Ultimo, a five-minute walk from Central, from 5-10pm each night. Bring your pocket money and comfy pants, ’cos the line-up is bloody beaut, with food stalls by Firepop, Bessie’s, Flora, Kiln, Lankan Filling Station, Attenzione Food & Wine, TBC by Grape Garden, Takam, Gelato Messina and more. Drinks-wise, expect fun, fruity and refreshing tipples from Archie Rose, as well as PS40, Baptist Street Rec Club, The Waratah, Double Deuce Lounge, Little Cooler, Maybe Sammy and more, plus vino from P&V Wine + Liquor Merchants and cold beers from Grifter Brewing Co. Time Out Sydney’s lifestyle writer Winnie Stubbs popped her Stickybeak Festival cherry last year – and loved it, saying: “If your dream Sydney dinner features a Martini from an Inner City cocktail bar, starters from a wine den in Newtown, mains from a Redfern pasta palace and dessert from a Darlinghurst bakehouse, Stickybeak is a dream come true. It would be a logistical impossibility to hop between 20 venues in one night, but this glorious fest brings them together all in one place,” she added. Ain’t that the truth. Throughout the event, there’ll be DJs and live performances curated by FBi Radio for you to bop along to, a

Dry-Aged Steaks & Stories

Keen to take your Sunday barefoot barbie skills to the next level? Curious about dry-ageing? Want to learn how to cook meat perfectly from the best in the biz? If yes, then you're in luck. Two of Australia’s leading experts in quality meats and cooking them bang-on – butcher and entrepreneur Anthony Puharich of Vic’s Meats, and Chiswick and Aria chef-owner Matt Moran – are teaming up for a super special night next month at Moran’s Chophouse. Our knives (and tastebuds) are ready. Called Dry-Aged Steaks & Stories, the evening, happening on Wednesday, April 2, will feature an exclusive masterclass from the fellas on the art of dry-ageing, peppered with insights, stories and tips that are sure to take your steak skills from good to bloody delicious. Guests will also sit down to a four-course meal showcasing the techniques discussed in the masterclass. Think: Sonoma sourdough with beef tallow butter; Moran Family Farm dry-aged pork with cider jus; and a dry-aged O’Connor rib beef – both 30- and 100-day-aged, with Bordelaise sauce. Dessert will be an apple tarte tatin with crème Normande. From cut to cooking, seasoning to serving, Dry-Aged Steaks & Stories is sure to be a delicious and fun night for all the carnivore lovers out there. Dry-Aged Steaks & Stories costs $175 per person, which includes the masterclass by Matt Moran and Anthony Puharich, a cocktail on arrival and a four-course dinner, with wines available to purchase on the night. You can book your spot at Dry-Aged Steak

Re:Purpose dining experience at Avia

Chef Stefano Marano is passionate about sustainability, particularly when it comes to minimising food waste in the kitchen. This ethos comes to life at Avia, his charming 60-seat neighbourhood restaurant, which he co-owns with Jack Reid. Here, food scraps are repurposed into sauces, whole animals are used and waste is kept to a minimum. Now, he’s taking things one step further with Re:Purpose, a new monthly series where Avia’s team will collaborate with a top Sydney chef and restaurant to create a low-waste and delicious meal at the Darlinghurst diner. The chefs will take inspiration from food waste they currently see in their own kitchens and turn it into something special. View this post on Instagram A post shared by avriltreasure (@avriltreasure) “Think fun vibes, delicious food, juicy wines and a good cause at the base of all: sustainability and repurposing,” the team said in a statement on Instagram. The first Re:Purpose lunch is happening on Sunday, April 13 at Avia, featuring Korean-born Jun Hwang, the head chef of The White Horse. While the menu is still being finalised, we do know the teams will be working with local farms, bakers and suppliers to repurpose produce that would normally go to landfill. There’s no set menu, so you can choose and order what you want. Now, this is cool: Sydney-based creatives – including potters and ceramicists – are also getting in on the fun, turning glass and other material waste from Avia into crockery and

Lakemba Nights

For people of Islamic faith, Ramadan is the most sacred month of the year. During this time, Muslims fast from dawn to dusk. But once the sun sets, iftar begins – a fast-breaking feast that runs late into the night, bringing family and friends together to enjoy an array of rich treats and moreish morsels. To coincide with this time of year, Sydney’s popular month-long celebration Lakemba Nights is back. This year’s event will be a little different, and instead of daily markets, Lakemba Nights will be running every Thursday to Sunday from now to March 30, 2025. RELATED READ: The 5 must-try dishes at Sydney's Lakemba Nights Ramadan markets. What time does Lakemba Nights during Ramadan open and close? From 6pm until 2am, Thursday through to Sunday, more than 60 local businesses will transform Lakemba’s Haldon Street into a vibrant, global food bazaar with traditional cuisine from Indonesia, Burma, Pakistan, Lebanon, the Cocos Islands, Syria and more. Time Out tip: We recommend getting there early, around 6pm, and making a beeline straight for the busiest stalls (they're the ones with fences up for lines!). It’s not only Sydney’s Muslim communities that comes together during Lakemba Nights – people of all backgrounds are welcome to flock to sample the fare of pop-up kitchens and food trucks lining Haldon Street. What started as a single street barbeque back in 2012 has grown into what many consider one of Australia's best places to celebrate the ancient tradition, with last

Pink Moon and Natural Wine

Picture this: you’re sipping on beautiful natural wines with your friends, overlooking Sydney Harbour while enjoying cheeses, pickles and seasonal vegetables curated by Aplenty. Then, you look up at the luminous moon in the sky while astronomers share what the planets and stars are up to this autumn. No, this isn’t your latest celestial dream, but a brand-new experience happening next month at Sydney Observatory to coincide with the full moon. Called Pink Moon and Natural Wine, the evening will feature Australian small-scale wine distributor Lo-Fi Wines, who will be offering tastings from low-intervention producers including Gut Oggau (Austria), Saep (South Australia), A.R.C. Wines (Victoria), and Château Acid (New South Wales). You’ll also get a chance to meet with the winemakers, chat about their drops, and deep-dive with sommeliers. Dreamy catering company Aplenty will be serving optional grazing platters and boxes featuring freshly baked focaccia, cheeses and other yum snacks. Guests will hear an insightful in-conversation between Tiffany Gardoll, an archaeologist and vineyard historian, and Shanteh Wale, host of the Over A Glass podcast, with Powerhouse food program manager, Xinyi Lim. The three will discuss viticulture in Sydney, winemaking in your backyard, and wine notes that Sydneysiders love (hello, juicy and fruity chilled reds). Next, winemaker and farmer Dave Gartelmann from South Australia’s Saep Wines, and James Audas from Victoria’s A.R.C. Wines and co-owner o

Turkish Street Feast

Got plans for Sunday? If not, great. And if you do, you may wanna reschedule because a one-day Turkish feast is happening at Marrickville’s Ester Spirits. It’s a collaboration between the small-scale distillery as well as female-led pop-up diner Babs. Throughout the day, the team will be serving $25 plates inspired by chef Ellie Hayes O’Brien’s travels throughout Turkey. Think: succulent, charred meats, earthy spices, zippy pickles and vibrant colours. Ester Spirits will be mixing and pouring cocktails inspired by Istanbul’s spice markets – so expect fragrant, aromatic flavours like rosewater, sumac, sour cherry and orange blossom in your tipples. The space will be transformed with beautiful mats for lounging and communal-style tables for a shared dining experience. It’s all going down at Ester Spirits Distillery, Marrickville, this Sunday, March 16, from 12-5pm (or until sold out). A handful of tables are available to book, but walk-ins are welcome. Find out more here. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED READS: These are best Turkish restaurants in Sydney right now. Check out Time Out's guide to the best restaurants in Sydney here.

News (175)

Hell yeah: Sydney icon Freda’s reopens today, bringing good times, killer music and yum eats and drinks to Chippendale

Sydney’s nightlife is about to get a whole lot more fun as Bar Freda’s – an evolution of Chippendale’s OG party bar Freda's, as well as Darlinghurst’s go-to Cafe Freda’s – officially opens its doors today (Thursday, April 24) in Chippendale. Expect high-energy dance hits, backed up by groovy interiors and excellent eats and drinks. Bar Freda’s has taken over a two-level heritage terrace connected to The Abercrombie, in the former home of Lil Sis, with co-founders David Abram and Carla Uriarte aiming to create a cool space that brings people together over a shared love of good times. DJs will be playing every Friday and Saturday night, from 8pm 'till late. Photograph: Maria Boyadgis To celebrate the launch, the team is throwing a 'Festival of Freda’s', kicking off tonight, and running until Saturday, April 26, featuring a line-up of non-stop bangers and disco vibes. Tickets cost $20 – you can snap up the remaining ones and check out who’s playing here. Plus, there’s a fun happy hour on offer that we reckon you should get around: $7 schooners, $12 frozen cocktails and $15 Tommy’s Margs, available Tuesday to Saturday, 5-7pm. Cheers. “It’s remarkable that we’re coming back just a few hundred metres from where the original Freda’s was. That venue had a big impact on the nightlife scene at the time, and with Club Freda’s nights in the works, I’m beyond excited to be back in a position to provide opportunities for young DJs, promoters and creatives in Sydney and help give them

I went to Australia’s best beach for 2025 – and this is what shocked me

I don’t have kids, but I reckon deciding on Australia’s best beach is kinda like choosing who you like more: Sally or Ronny. On an island nation fringed with 10,000+ beaches – spanning the rolling blue waves of New South Wales to the sugar-white sands of Far North Queensland and the calm turquoise sea of Western Australia – it’s a bloody tough question. (Freshwater Beach would be my pick, for the no-one-cares, yes-I’m-biased record.) Though each year, the good people of Tourism Australia undergo this near-impossible task, with this year’s top honour going to the Bay of Fires, located on the northeastern coast of Tasmania. Brad Farmer AM, conservationist, professional beach spotter and Tourism Australia’s official ‘beach ambassador’ (side note – how do I apply for that job?) looked at 130 key factors – including aesthetics, safety, history, facilities and weather – across 12,000 beaches to conclude that Bay of Fires was the winner for 2025. I was lucky enough to be on a road trip in Tassie earlier this year and spent a couple of days hiking, swimming and frothing on Australia’s best beach – here’s what shocked me the most. RELATED READ: This award-winning Tasmanian winery has now launched a dreamy cellar door experience. First of all, Australia’s best beach in 2025 is not one beach – but 10 kilometres of them For the first time ever, Tourism Australia has awarded the best beach in the country to, well, multiple beaches, as the Bay of Fires is actually a ten-kilometre stretch o

Sydney’s epic new multi-venue from the Rockpool team is now open in The Rocks

Say hello to The Collective, Sydney’s newest dining precinct by the team behind Rockpool Bar & Grill, now open in The Rocks. The ambitious multi-venue hub – which encompasses five distinct and stunning venues and covers a massive 1,800 square metres – has taken over from late-night haunt The Argyle, breathing new life into this historic part of Sydney. Photograph: Steven Woodburn First up is The Dining Room, a beautiful 225-seat restaurant set in a former wool store, featuring heritage pillars, plush booths, a wine cellar that can hold more than 500 bottles, and original sandstone walls dating back to 1881. Heading up the kitchen is Hunter St Hospitality’s all-star team of chefs: Santiago Aristizabal, Andy Evans and Shimpei Hatanaka. They’re joined by The Collective’s new executive chef, Mike Flood, who has previously been on the pans at Firedoor, Quay, Felix and The Ivy. Giddy up. Photograph: Avril Treasure for Time Out Sydney Expect luxe snacks like caviar tartlets and baby abalone schnitzels, fresh seafood towers, go-big-or-go-home steaks (hello, 1.5kg Wagyu MB9+ tomahawk) and more. For dessert, we have our eye on the light-as-a-feather banana mille-feuille. Be sure to head upstairs to level one and check out the sleek and sexy cocktail spot The Bar, right next door to the floating DJ who’ll be playing hits daily. After one cocktail? Make it the Strawberry, a cracking riff on a Negroni that heroes the sweet and juicy fruit. Photograph: Steven Woodburn There’s The Gar

This magical NSW farm-to-table spot is a must-visit destination on your next getaway

We’ve just finished a bowl of handmade fettuccine coated in a fresh-tasting sauce made from zucchinis grown about 100 metres away, paired with a glass of bright and elegant chardonnay, when we’re told it’s time for our garden wander. And don’t worry, they tell us – we can bring our glasses of wine. Sounds good to me. Soon, we’re strolling past nearly-ripe citrus, bushes dotted with lava-red chillies, rows of fragrant basil and glistening-black baby eggplants. I can spot leeks standing tall in the ground, tiny sunset-coloured crab apples, ruby-red rhubarb, and hundreds of olives nearly ready to have a starring role alongside crumbly cheese. Growing and cooking food from the land is nothing new – and we’re seeing more and more diners embrace seasonal, local ingredients – but Mudgee restaurant The Zin House takes it one step further by only serving produce from their organic and biodynamic farm, Tinja, located on Wiradjuri land. If they don’t grow it, they don’t serve it (save for honeycomb, cheese, truffles, poultry and dairy they get from friends and neighbours). Even the lambs are raised on the nearby pasture. (Sorry, vegos.) The only setback? I would like to wander around the garden armed with vino every time I have lunch, please and thank you. View this post on Instagram A post shared by avriltreasure (@avriltreasure) The vibe The Zin House is a farm-to-table, family-owned restaurant overlooking the organic and biodynamic Lowe vineyard and far

South West Sydney has scored a stunning new $50 million mega hub with seven bars and two cinemas

One of Australia's largest and most ambitious hospitality and entertainment precincts has finally opened its doors in South West Sydney after close to four years of construction. Oran Park Hotel, located south-west Sydney's Oran Park, features seven bars, an all-day restaurant, an open-air atrium, an old-school pizzeria, a bottle shop and an Asian-inspired rooftop bar complete with an adults-only terrace. And in case that wasn’t enough, it’s also home to two cinemas perfect for private viewings, book launches and other intimate events, a grand ballroom for glittery, Champagne-fuelled nights, a bunch of function rooms, plus an indoor kids’ play area. Sounds good? We think so too. Spanning three levels across 7,500 sqm, Oran Park Hotel is one of the largest hospitality developments in the country, making its opening ace news not only for locals but for all of Sydney. RELATED READ: A huge new city is being built in Sydney – the first major city to be built in Australia in more than 100 years. Photograph: Steven Woodburn The beautiful new mega precinct, which reportedly cost a whopping $50 million, is owned and operated by Momento Hospitality, the group behind venues across New South Wales including local favourites like the Nags Head Hotel, Hills Distilling Co., Bella Vista Hotel and more. Photograph: Steven Woodburn As mentioned, there’s a bit going on at Oran Park Hotel – so we reckon you should grab your gang and check it out soon. While you’re there, swing by The Bistro

Civico 47 delivers Italian flavours and warm service in a historic Paddington setting

Long-term Paddington locals know the building at 47 Windsor Street well. For close to 40 years, the charming terrace was home to Lucio's, a beloved Italian restaurant and Sydney institution. It made sense that when it closed in 2021, another Italian restaurant took its place. That place is Civico 47, a warm neighbourhood diner which serves the flavours of Italy’s regions executed with beautiful Aussie produce. Leading the kitchen is executive chef Matteo Zamboni. Born in Serle in a small town in Lombardy, Zamboni brings two decades of experience to the kitchen, having worked at Ormeggio at the Spit, Pilu at Freshwater – where he was also head chef – and Jonah’s. Menu highlights include crisp zucchini flowers filled with creamy ricotta and drizzled in sticky and sweet honey; ribbon-like mafalde studded with plump prawns and bok choy stems in a bright tomato and shellfish bisque; and crisp-skinned dry-aged duck paired with witlof and mandarin dressing. Be sure to leave room for the silky-smooth house-made fig-leaf gelato with candied figs, amaretti and aromatic rosemary – it's bellissimo. View this post on Instagram A post shared by avriltreasure (@avriltreasure) Fan of lobster and treating yourself? We are too. Currently, Civico 47 has a lunch special featuring half an Eastern Rock lobster with spaghetti twirled in a rich and luscious sauce for $85. It’s big enough to share between two, though we won’t blame you if you want to have it on your own. Y

JUST IN: Global icon and lifestyle guru Martha Stewart is coming to Sydney

Global superstar Martha Stewart is coming to Sydney this winter. The American lifestyle guru, home cook, author of 101 books and business mogul – who also served time in prison – will be hosting a super special, one-off in conversation event as part of Vivid. Stewart, 83, will be bringing with her a lifetime of stories and wisdom as she joins Nigella Lawson in this year’s epic Vivid line-up. Mark your calendars: In Conversation with Martha Stewart will be happening at the International Convention Centre (ICC) Sydney on Wednesday, May 28. “I have made some wonderful memories travelling to Australia over the years, so I am thrilled to return for Vivid Sydney. The conversation will be fun and honest, covering many aspects of my life and career,” says Stewart. “I’m always looking for inspiration when I travel so I’m excited to see what Sydney has to offer.” Vivid Sydney festival director Gill Minervini said: “Vivid Sydney is unrivalled in its ability to offer exclusive, unmissable and one-of-a-kind events to visitors. "It’s incredibly exciting to welcome one of the most revered and fascinating minds to Sydney. We could not think of a better figure that encapsulates this year’s theme of 'Dream' more than Martha Stewart.” Tickets for In Conversation with Martha Stewart go on sale today (Friday, April 4) at 9am – and you can get them here. Run, don’t walk. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straig

I checked out this luxe adults-only NSW glamping spot that won gold at the Australian Tourism Awards

I’ve had some pretty incredible experiences in my 30 years. But having a bath in a freestanding tub overlooking Mudgee’s gentle green hills – sipping on local sparkling wine paired with soft cheese, pickles and crackers while watching the golden sun turn into a brilliant display of fire-orange and soft pinks – has to be close to the top. We couldn’t see a single soul, save for a few roos hopping off in the distance, and sheep grazing on the paddocks. As time went on, my glass of sparkling vino moved to a bright and juicy pinot, and the now panther-black sky was lit up with thousands of twinkling stars. I stayed in that tub for about three hours. And I can’t say for certain, but I’m pretty sure that’s close to a world record. View this post on Instagram A post shared by avriltreasure (@avriltreasure) It makes complete sense then to find out Sierra Escape – the luxury, adults-only glamping experience I was staying at, just a 20-minute drive from Mudgee’s township – just won gold for Unique Accommodation at the recent Qantas Australian Tourism Awards. The awards celebrate excellence in the tourism industry across the whole country, and the Unique Accommodation Award is all about recognising businesses that provide exceptional stays combining innovation, sustainability and world-class guest experiences. Sierra Escape has all of that down-pat – and then some. Wife-and-husband duo Natasha and Cam D'Arcy put up a single tent on an empty farming bloc

The very best deals and happy hour specials in Sydney this April

With Easter around the corner, ANZAC Day not far behind, and a couple of long weekends thrown in the mix, April is one exciting month in the Harbour City. And while it's all fun, we know it's easy for your savings to go out the window thanks to all the socialising. The good news? There are some excellent happy hour offers and cheap meal specials on right now in Sydney – so you can go and have a good time without feeling bad about your bank balance. Here are our seven favourite deals in Sydney right now. Sydney's best happy hours, meal deals and budget-friendly scores Photograph: Supplied/Midtown Free snacks and $10 mini cocktails at Midtown Bar & Lounge Sultry New York-style cocktail bar Midtown, located on Level Two of the new and improved CBD pub, The Bristol, has a crazy good offer running in April, with all guests receiving free snacks after their first round of drinks. Order one of the mini $10 cocktails (hello, Margaritas, Martinis and Negronis) and enjoy a complimentary charcuterie-style plate featuring focaccia, mortadella, prosciutto, olives and cheese, plus a chocolate brownie. Yes, we’re serious. When? 6-9pm, Wednesday through to Saturday. Get on it. RELATED READ: These are the 40 best happy hours in Sydney right now. $17 parmy at The Bat & Ball Hotel Is there anything better than a parmy at the pub? What about one that gives you change from $20? Redfern’s The Bat & Ball Hotel, winner of Time Out Sydney’s Best Casual Drinking Venue 2025, has ace mid-week offers.

Kolkata Social brings vibrant and traditional Bengali eats to Sydney’s Newtown

Ahana Dutt is on a mission to widen Sydneysiders' perception of what Indian food is, namely, that it’s more than butter chicken and naan. Born and raised in Kolkata, India, the chef is leading the charge of the mostly female team at new Sydney restaurant Kolkata Social – the latest opening from social enterprise Plate it Forward, now open in Newtown. Dutt – who spent six years working at the award-winning fine diner Firedoor, as well as Time Out’s Best Relaxed Restaurant 2023, Raja – is drawing on family recipes that she grew up with at the Bengali-focused restaurant. “I want to show people that Bengali food is Indian food, as well as the corollary that Indian food is more than butter chicken and naan. The food at Kolkata Social is a way for me to not only hold on to but celebrate my heritage in a different country,” she said. Photograph: Serhat Karakas Opening menu highlights include: paturi featuring spiced ricotta wrapped in a banana leaf and cooked on a tawa (flat pan) until slightly caramelised; crisp-skinned barramundi fried in mustard oil and served with a smoked yoghurt sauce flavoured with cardamom and green chillies; a zucchini dorma stuffed with split Bengal gram with a fiery tomato sauce; slow-cooked goat on the bone with a spicy and fragrant sauce; and vanilla pound cake served with saffron yoghurt cream and seasonal fruit. Pair your meal with a Mini Mustard Martini, a Spiked Lassi (think: a creamy boozy slushie with saffron), and the Kolkata Lager, brewed excl

The sprawling new $20-million Hay St Market is now open in Sydney

Hay St Market at Paddy’s – an epic, 3,000-square-metre market home to 48 stalls spanning more than 25 different cuisines – opens today (Wednesday, March 26) in Sydney. A project more than three years in the making, Hay St Market is inspired by food markets found all over the world, as well as Sydney’s wonderful and unique multicultural landscape. The fully revitalised market, which is a $20-million project, aims to pay homage to the historic Paddy’s Markets site, which has been operating as a market since 1834, while breathing new life into the location. Operating seven days a week from morning to late, Hay St Market is set to draw in both Sydneysiders and tourists, who will be able to get everything from street food snacks to artisanal produce, colourful blooms and stunning homewares, all under the one roof. It’s also fully licensed, meaning you can enjoy a crisp beer with your noodles or chilled red after work. How good. Photograph: Esteban La Tessa Celebrity chef, restaurateur and author Luke Nguyen has several stalls there, including Pho Chu Lap, where he will be serving his famed 24-hour pho made from his father’s secret recipe, as well as Madam Banh Mi, which will be knocking out Vietnam’s famous baguette (find out our fave banh mi here). Renowned chef Mark Olive will be serving food showcasing Australian Indigenous flavours at his Little Midden stall, a nod to his restaurant found inside the Opera House. Love Me Tender, headed up by Rockpool’s former butcher Tim Case

Sydney’s Castle Hill is home to a chic Italian restaurant with a Michelin-trained chef

Born in Naples, Stefano Bozza’s family owned a bakery growing up, so he learnt the art of dough-making as a child. As a young chef, he honed his craft under the mentorship of three-Michelin-star chef Niko Romito, before going on to work at three-Michelin-starred restaurant Reale, located in Castel di Sangro, Italy. Now, Bozza is the head chef of Modo Mio in Castle Hill, a warm and classy restaurant that showcases the flavours of Italy's regions. If there’s one dish you’ve got to order, it’s the tortellini in brodo, Modo Mio’s take on the beloved dish from Emilia-Romagna. Think: handmade pasta filled with cheese, served tableside in a comforting, beautifully balanced broth. Photograph: Ethan Smart Other menu highlights include a vitello tonnato with creamy tuna mayo and pops of salty capers; linguini twirled with a luscious sauce dotted with cherry tomatoes, sweet crab meat and fresh parsley; perfectly cooked steaks; and sunflower-yellow saffron risotto. Modo Mio’s wood-fired pizza takes its cues from both Napoli and Rome. The pomodoro features a tomato sauce that’s simmered to develop flavour over eight hours, before being topped with mozzarella and fresh basil. There’s also a sausage pizza with wild broccolini, smoked fior di latte and chilli, among others. Photograph: Ethan Smart For dessert, choose from Italian-style doughnuts, tiramisu and rum-infused sponge cake with custard cream. “Every dish starts with purpose, whether it’s sourcing the right ingredients or applyi