NEW SOUTH WALES

Distillery Botanica is gearing up for Christmas with festive spirits and gin-ger cheer to herald the celebratory season. In a match made in gin heaven, the Distillery has partnered with award-winning Central Coast gingerbread expert Adri’s Gingerbread to create the ultimate festive workshop. Happening on 13th December, the Gin-gerbread House Decorating Workshop is $95 per person and includes the chance to build and decorate a gingerbread masterpiece while enjoying a special seasonal gin and ginger beer made with the Distillery’s festive We Three Kings dry gin.

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Rick Stein at Coogee Beach will officially open on 1st December at the InterContinental Sydney Coogee Beach, the 224-seat restaurant will bring Rick’s renowned “fresh seafood, simply prepared” ethos to one of Sydney’s most loved beachside destinations. The inaugural menu celebrates the very best of Australia’s coastal produce, with a focus on local and seasonal seafood from New South Wales and beyond. The adjoining bar will offer an extensive drinks list, featuring coastal-inspired cocktails and a curated wine selection ideal for long lunches and sunset sessions.

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A new family-run Greek restaurant opened its doors in The Rocks: Jimmy’s Kitchen. The 22-seat restaurant feels like stepping into a Greek home with sandstone walls, royal blue accents, and shelves lined with olive oil, pastas, and preserved capsicum. Highlights include the Astakos Kritharaki (lobster with orzo), Lamb Kleftiko, and Saganaki Halloumi.

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Disco Bingo has landed at El Primo Sanchez in its new Surry Hills. Every Wednesday from 7pm, guests who purchase a Teremana Tommy’s Margarita receive a bingo card to play along as the host spins a mix of disco and throwback tunes. Mark off the songs you recognise to win prizes — from a shot of Teremana Tequila for five in a row to two cocktails and a $50 El Primo Sanchez voucher for a full bingo. Two rounds, a stack of prizes, and enough tequila-fuelled disco to turn any Wednesday into a Friday.

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Rozelle’s much loved local, The Sackville has officially reopened after a full-scale renovation. Unveiling a refreshed street bar, new outdoor seating along Darling Street and redesigned interiors built for good food, cold drinks and great company. From late night dancing in the redesigned main bar, to soaking up the afternoon sun on Darling Street over cocktails and share plates, The Sackville is back with the unmistakable spirit locals know and love. The venue also boasts a refreshed menu, over a dozen beer taps, a vibrant cocktail list and a purpose-built Sports Bar for all fans.

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Aster, InterContinental Sydney’s rooftop bar, is celebrating the art of doing things solo with a new offering, Martini for One. Running throughout summer, the experience includes personalised martini flights (with an interactive martini quiz to help you find your perfect match), elevated small bites, and 270-degree views across Sydney Harbour.

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Goros celebrates its 11th birthday with a month-long Konbini-style takeover, running until 6th December. Inspired by Japan’s vibrant 24-hour convenience stores, the Konbini Takeover will transform Goros into a neon-lit playground filled with grab-and-go snacks, retro games, immersive photo ops and surprise giveaways – all with Goros’ signature late-night energy.

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The Rocks welcomes a new wine and food experience offering a taste of the Barossa Valley to visitors. Château Tanunda x Tayim have launched a new Progressive Dinner Series. Running once a month, guests can enjoy an educational tasting experience on one of the country’s most renowned wine regions, followed by a curated three-course Chef’s Table dinner at the neighbouring Middle Eastern dining destination Tayim – all paired with The Rocks’ rich charm. December’s dinner event will be happening on 11th December.

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PARKROYAL Darling Harbour is bringing the city’s spirit straight to its guests with the launch of it’s Local Cart; a roving celebration of classic Aussie snack culture. Rolling into the lobby Friday to Sunday 4-5pm, the cart serves up Aussie favourites like Tim Tams and Anzac Biscuits, curated by the hotel’s own PARKROYAL Local. Guests also receive a hand-drawn Sydney postcard, a little memento of the city’s icons.

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Seasonal pop-up, Rosé Beach Bar has officially opened, tucked into the southern end of House Made Hospitality’s Promenade Beach Bar. Expect crisp glasses and $125 magnums of Provence-style rosé, cocktails built around the wine, and snacks like cauliflower popcorn with rosé mayo and a rosé and sour cherry ice cream, all made in partnership with Rameau d’Or, crafted from 30-year-old vines in the Côtes de Provence. DJs are on from Friday to Sunday, and the Côte d’Azur-style setup runs seven days a week through to the end of April.

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Tailor Room in The Rocks menu themed around fabric (think Cotton, a vodka and Nigori sake cocktail with a soft, cloud-like mouthfeel designed to reflect the lightness and airiness of the fabric), and now a one-off drink called Satin, designed to mirror the fabric’s smooth, flowing texture through clarified apple, oolong tea, and Never Never’s new Signature Vodka, finished with makrut lime–infused coconut and olive oil. It’s poured tableside and served on a satin pocket square you can take home. Available until 14th December, limited seats, limited serves, and a salty little gilda on the side.

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The Botanica Vaucluse is redefining Sydney’s bottomless dining scene with a new seasonal menu led by co-head chefs Abby James (Quay, Jonah’s) and Thai Sams (Bentley Restaurant & Bar). Entirely gluten-free and grounded in farm-to-table freshness, the new offering takes the city’s favourite weekend ritual to refined new heights. Set among lush, garden-filled dining rooms, guests can settle in for a long lunch that celebrates local produce and playful flavour. The menu blends light, bright dishes with richer, elegant plates — perfectly paired with flowing drinks and easy conversation.

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Perched high above the dazzling vistas of Darling Harbour, Zephyr Sky Bar’s rooftop has officially transformed into a Mezcaleria in the sky to welcome in summer! Guests will be able to bask in Zephyr Sky Bar’s signature skyline elegance now infused with Latin flair, where sculptural succulents spill from terracotta pots, and bursts of pink and orange décor, mosaic-tiled walls, and beautiful lighting create an oasis of colour and energy – inviting guests to be transported to a summer’s night in the heart of Mexico.

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Hinchcliff House has started their new Aperitivo Hour, complete with a sip of a first-of-its-kind Prosciutto Negroni. The menu, created in partnership with Principe Prosciutto di San Daniele, reimagines Italy’s favourite pre-dinner ritual with a line-up of la dolce vita-inspired sips and snacks set to roll out across Lana, Grana, Apollonia and Bar Mammoni.

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Coogee Bay Hotel has entered a bright new chapter of seaside dining with the launch of Beach Bar & Dining, led by Executive Chef Justin Schott (ex-Mimi’s). Overlooking the waves of Coogee Beach, the new restaurant and bar capture the spirit of coastal Sydney, relaxed and full of flavour. After more than a decade in some of Sydney’s most loved kitchens, his move to Coogee Bay Hotel marks a new era that celebrates fresh, seasonal produce, generous portions, and unfussy seaside flavours. Perfect for long lunches, small gatherings, and sunset dinners by the sea.

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Terrace Bar launches at The Malaya, the Southeast Asian dining institution now housed in Grosvenor Place, has just added a sun-drenched terrace bar to its new city digs—and it’s shaping up to be one of the CBD’s best-kept afternoon secrets. Open Monday to Saturday from 3–6pm, the 60-seat outdoor space offers full table service and a polished, more grown-up alternative to the post-work pub crush.

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The multi-level Terrigal Pavilion has officially opened on the NSW Central Coast. The 760-seat space is home to three distinct venues that are serving up everything from sunrise smoothies and acai bowls to long lunches, dinners and late-night party vibes with a disco ball to match. Under the pastel-lettered sign above the doorway and up the terrazzo stone stairs lies the building’s namesake, which occupies the entire top floor.

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Club Amalfi has launched at the Watsons Bay Hotel. For $89 per person, experience Club Amalfi an afternoon of mediterranean vibes, delicious food & your favourite tunes. One Sunday a month, kicking off from 7th December, the event will feature a multicourse shared menu and ease into a European inspired beach club party with DJs in their newly renovated Top Deck Space.

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South Sydney’s newest waterfront hotspot, Georges River Sailing Club, has launched a prime-time Happy Hour designed for cocktail lovers, music fans and sunset chasers. Think handcrafted cocktails, live music, DJ sets and uninterrupted Botany Bay views – plus snackable bites such Harissa Lamb Belly Skewers and Fried Jalapenos. Running Fridays and Saturdays from 8-10pm and Sundays from 3-5pm, the new Happy Hour pairs $15 cocktails and spritzes such Espresso Martini, Daiquiri and Aperol Spritz’s with $10 premium spirits including Grey Goose and Patron Silver, all timed perfectly with live music and DJ sets with front-row sunset views over Botany Bay.

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A new open-air pop-up bar serving cold beers, wings and DJs has openeding in the heart of the CBD, Bridge Street Social will be running through summer, located in the Museum of Sydney forecourt has transformed into a laidback city hangout for knock-offs and afternoon drinks. Expect schooners of Heineken Silver poured straight from the airstream bar, a short list of cocktails and wines, and a menu built around wings and fries.

More info here

Felons Brewing Co. in Manly have unveiled the Felons Barrel Room and onsite microbrewery with live performances. Launching on the first weekend of summer, the milestone event will herald the installation of Felons’ new on-site microbrewery and the opening of Felons Barrel Room, the final chapter in bringing the full Felons Manly experience to life.

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Newtown’s Mexican eatery Maiz is turning 5 and to celebrate they’re teaming up with Yulli’s Brews to hold one big ole’ SUMMER FIESTA on 6th December! It’s also been 2 years since the launch of Maisie Corn Lager (Maiz’s collaboration beer with Yulli’s Brews), so what better way to start the party season than with good vibes, delicious vegan Mexican food, fresh brews & cocktails, party people and epic tunes all afternoon and into the night.

More info here

VICTORIA

Daphne has officially opened its doors on Lygon Street. A dedicated front bar with counter service will serve walk-ins, as will curbside seating on Lygon Street. Towards the back, guests can experience Green’s signature service style in the linen-draped bistro, while a curtained-off private space caters for up to 30 guests. Restaurant Manager Pip Littore, moves across from Etta, to lead the front-of-house team.

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Dock 37 Bar and Kitchen, located within the award-winning Pan Pacific Melbourne is offering a  decadent festive feast on Christmas Day. Guests will be treated to a lavish spread featuring a seafood buffet, a live carvery station and exquisite artisan bakery creations. A children’s buffet and dedicated kids’ corner with festive activities ensure the little ones are entertained, while live music and a special visit from Santa fill the atmosphere with joy.

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The new Japanese restaurant Disuko has officially openeed on Bourke Street. Translated from the Japanese word for ‘disco’, the group’s seventh venue – and most ambitious to date – will take over the former institution, Madame Brussels, and transport diners to the disco-drenched era of 1980s Tokyo. Panelled with Japanese red timber and sultry hues of terracotta, the multi-faceted venue is reminiscent of Tokyo’s low-lit, late-night lounges.

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Melbourne’s StandardX has officially opened, a design-forward rooftop bar and lounge that captures the creative energy of Fitzroy from above. Previously exclusive to hotel guests, the venue has now been reimagined, opening its doors to the local neighbourhood, in-the-know out-of-towners and anyone looking for a genuinely good time. Accommodating up to 60 guests, On Top is an intimate rooftop escape that feels inviting and social – the warm colour palette and arid planting juxtaposed against Fitzroy’s industrial grit.

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MAHO MAGIC BAR is returning to Melbourne! From 25th November, the fresh tricksters, fresh tricks and even fresher cocktails at MAHO MAGIC BAR will jet Melbournians straight to a neon-lit ‘Tokyo’ night, with all the mischief, mayhem, cocktails and laughter you could wish for.

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Mornington Peninsula’s Red Hill Estate has just opened its new outdoor dining experience, Gigi’s Piazza. Set on the lawns beside the Restaurant’s Conservatory, Gigi’s Piazza is a relaxed, open-air space for long lunches, late afternoons and everything in between. Serving up a picnic-style menu of all the Italian classics and Red Hill Estate wine by the glass, Gigi’s Piazza’s ethos centres on slowing down, savouring the moment, and enjoying good food, good company and the great outdoors.

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