WHAT TO DO IN NSW

Duk Inn has finally opened in Newtown, bright neon lights, muraled walls, and shelves of Maneki-neko (lucky cats) offer patrons a modern, insta-worthy dining backdrop. Founded by a third-generation Cantonese BBQ chef, Jonathan Wu and partner Tracey Rhodes, the restaurant’s signature dish is their Peking Duck (a third-generation recipe) with other menu highlights including Mud Crab and Southern Red Rock Lobster which require 24-hour pre-ordering.

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Beloved craft breweries, Wildflower & Mountain Culture have collaborated on a joint taproom in Marrickville. Wildflower’s home on Brompton St, Marrickville, has been renamed ‘Village’ to reflect the shared venue. The move aims to deliver the best craft beer experience in Sydney, offering two contrasting styles in one venue. The taproom will be a shared space where you can experience the best of both breweries.

More info here

Icebergs Dining Room and Bar has partnered with Cure Cancer as they introduce – “Dining For A Cure”. Until the 5th September, guests at Icebergs Dining Room and Bar will have the unique opportunity to bring their own bottle of wine (BYO) to their dining experience. All proceeds from the BYO service will be directly donated to Cure Cancer, providing an additional opportunity for hope and change. This initiative not only enhances the dining experience but also transforms it into a meaningful act of generosity and support.

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A first-of-its-kind toddler-friendly spa experience has opened in Sydney this month. A space for busy parents and their active bubs to pamper themselves together, the Toddler Skin Spa will be offering complimentary 30-minute massages for parents and toddlers to enjoy together, alongside play activities and professional toddler skin care advice.

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Award-winning Asian fusion restaurant in Campbells Cove, Luna Lu has laucnhed their new High Tea, where elegance meets indulgence, and a classic is reconceptualised with a modern-Asian twist. Alongside classics like freshly baked English scones with jam and cream, mini Mille Feuilles and macaroons, enjoy a selection of Luna Lu’s premium dumplings, with delicate prawn toasts and spring rolls – all handcrafted by an award winning team. Luna Lu’s High Tea is available every Saturday & Sunday from 12:00pm – 4:00pm.

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A New York inspired neighbourhood wine bar has launched on the corner of George Street and Bond Street, taking up a unique ground floor frontage. Designed by the Accor team that brought Hyde Hacienda and Bar to life, Georgie brings a relaxed wine bar experience alongside a luxurious cosiness to the CBD bar scene.

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WHAT TO DO IN VIC

The Melbourne Fair returns with stunning dresses from the wardrobes of Hollywood icons Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn. From 12th until 5th September, the highly esteemed Melbourne Fair is returning to Australia’s cultural capital, featuring more than 50 of the nation’s distinguished dealers showcasing thousands of rare pieces spanning Antique, Art Deco, Mid Century Modern, and Contemporary eras.

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A global sensation Accidentally Wes Anderson: The Exhibition is set to make its Australian debut in Melbourne this September. Inspired by the whimsical world of renowned filmmaker Wes Anderson, this immersive art experience promises to transport visitors into a realm of pastel-hued grandeur and idyllic landscapes in the heart of Australia’s arts and culture capital.

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EziStreat have just launched eight new vendors to their line up! Referring to themselves as “Melbourne’s Food Hall”, the renowned culinary hotspot has undergone a remarkable transformation, unveiling a dynamic mix of new vendors and global flavours that are set to captivate both food enthusiasts and casual diners alike.

More info here

Dynamic sibling duo Adam and Elisa Mariani – the pair behind CBD hotspots Greta and Maverick – have opened Elio’s Place, an all-day European-inspired bistro that marries old-world charm with contemporary freshness. Located in the historic Flinders House, on Flinders Lane, the bistro is named after the siblings’ late father Elio and reflects a deep love of Italian hospitality. ​

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Melbourne’s beloved German institution, Hofbräuhaus, ​ will invite guests to don their dirndls and lederhosen for the most anticipated festival of the year — Oktoberfest. Starting on Saturday, 21 September, and running until Saturday, 26 October, Hofbräuhaus will kick off the festivities with its legendary Opening Party on the same day as the celebrations in Germany.

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