In this week’s issue: Pizzaperta opens at The Star, we look at New Year's celebrations that are set to happen all around Sydney, Ferrero Rocher releases new products in time for Christmas, The Future Shorts Film Festival returns, Mr Black's Cold Drip Coffee Spirit launches, A Pop-up at the MCA Café, and so much more
FOOD
PIZZAPERTA OPENS AT THE STAR (SYDNEY)
A slice of new wave pizza has opened at The Star and godfather of Italian cuisine Stefano Manfredi is at the helm. Pizzaperta - translated as “we are open for pizza”- is an innovative project showcasing the emerging trends of the humble Italian street food. Manfredi’s appetite to remain at the forefront of modern Italian cuisine has driven this passion project. True to his title, Manfredi is introducing a new type of pizza to Australia, the way he introduced modern Italian cuisine to Sydney over 30 years ago. Manfredi has asked one of Italy’s best young pizzaioli, Antonio Pappalardo, the owner of La Cascina dei Sapori in Brescia Italy, to come and help train the pizza staff in working with these new flours and their particular fermentation properties.
Pizzaperta’s dough is made from unrefined stoneground Molino Quaglia ‘Petra’ flours imported from Italy. The dough is matured and then leavened naturally for a minimum of 24 hours using a classic biga method, resulting in a more easily digested dough. The menu will change seasonally and topping ingredients will be sourced locally from the best fresh produce suppliers. Each pizza is designed with simple flavours to complement the handcrafted pizza base, cooked to perfection in the Stefano Ferrara M130 wood-burning oven direct from Naples. To find out more about this great venture, visit http://thestar.com.au/
MARY'S NEWTOWN WILL OPEN A BURGER JOINT IN THE CBD THIS WEEK (SYDNEY)
It's here, it's here, it's finally here! The now famous Mary's Newtown will be taking their mouth-watering burgers a little bit more central with a takeaway shop planned to open on Castlereagh Street THIS WEEK. As originally reported on Broadsheet, the new venue will be two levels (with the takeway section on the first floor) and will replace their alcoholic options with a range of classic shakes and house-made syrups. There will of course be those addiction forming cheeseburgers, a fried chicken-thigh burger, and some secret limited-edition burger options to boot. Get excited. We are.
Mary's Burgers will open at 154 Castlereagh Street in Sydney this week
BRAND NEW CHURRASCO RANGE FROM TRAMONTINA
In Brazil, Churrasco is not simply a way of cooking with the barbecue, it’s a lifestyle and a source of national pride. Given Australia has built an international reputation as a country that loves to barbecue it’s the perfect partnership that leading Brazilian homeware manufacturer Tramontina has brought the best of South American innovation down under with the launch of their new Churrasco range. This new range has everything you need or could ever want for your next barbecue including steak knife sets, barbecue tools with every accessory imaginable, wooden carving boards and a one-metre board ideal for the serious carver. There are over 100 products in the Churrasco range, many of which are made of specially cured wood. Check out www.tramontina.com.au to see more details on this amazing range.
NEW YEAR’S CELEBRATIONS (SYDNEY)
There’s a grand list of where to spend your New Year’s in Sydney this December 31st:
Flying Fish Restaurant and Bar
The Flying Fish Restaurant and Bar is the ultimate location to ring in the New Year. Enjoy stellar views of Sydney Harbour’s impressive firework display alongside some of Sydney’s best seafood and a luxury atmosphere. Flying Fish Restaurant and Bar in Pyrmont will make this New Year’s Eve unforgettable. Renowned chef Stephen Seckold has prepared an eight course degustation that is guaranteed to be a showstopper with beautiful wines to match. The cost is $400 per person, plus $200 for matched wine. For bookings phone 1300 515 878. For full details visit flyingfish.com.au
The Greens North Sydney
Forget dragging your old faithful blanket and juggling champagne at the overcrowded North Sydney Hill. Instead, relax and celebrate in style and comfort at The Greens North Sydney, a new eatery, bar, café and garden. With spectacular views of the Sydney Harbour fireworks as well as a menu prepared by executive chef Lilly Fasan (ex The Grounds of Alexandria), your friends will be green with envy as you enjoy the fireworks from one of the best views in Sydney. Kicking off at 5pm with live entertainment and DJ’s to keep the party going into the early hours, The Greens North Sydney has it all this New Year’s Eve. The cost includes a 2 course grazing menu, and a glass of Chandon on arrival, plus children’s entertainment until 9pm. The price is children for $50 and adults $150. For bookings go online to www.moshtix.com.au. To find out more, check out thegreensnorthsydney.com.au
Manly Wharf Hotel
Vibes on the Wharf NYE feat DJ Grandmaster Flash:
After last year’s sell-out success, Manly Wharf Hotel will again be hosting an un-missable event on New Year’s Eve. Featuring international headline artist DJ Grandmaster Flash and an incredible firework display at 9pm in front of the wharf. Tickets are $50 for first release, $60 for second release and $70 for third release. For bookings go online to www.moshtix.com.au, manlywharfhotel.com.au or at the venue
Vibes on the Wharf NYD feat Krafty Kuts & Dynamite MC:
Why stop partying after New Year’s Eve? Start the New Year off with a bang at Manly Wharf Hotel. International artist Krafty Kuts featuring MC Dynamite will headline this spectacular New Year’s Day party supported by A-Tonez, Devola, Mo Funk. Tickets are $50 for first release, $60 for second release and $70 for third release. For bookings go online to www.moshtix.com.au, manlywharfhotel.com.au or at the venue
Bishop Sessa
Avoid the CBD chaos and instead enjoy the exciting Crown Street atmosphere at Bishop Sessa this New Year’s Eve. Treat yourself to chef Paul Cooper’s five-course degustation which includes Hay Baked Sucking Pig and Seared Sea Scallops. The cost is $85 per person and $65 for matched wines. The price includes a Five course New Year’s Eve inspired meal. For bookings phone 02 8065 7223. Visit bishopsessa.com.au for more info.
Fairfield RSL
No matter what you’re in the mood for this New Year’s Eve, Fairfield RSL has got you covered with three delicious dining menus at award-winning Italian restaurant La Tratt, French bistro Montagne and sophisticated café Summer House. These three options are:
La Tratt
Includes: Three course Italian menu
Cost: $94 per person
Montagne
Includes: A Parisian-inspired three course menu
Cost: $84 per person
Summer House
Includes: Three course menu
Cost: $69 per person
For bookings phone 02 9727 5000. For more details about the event, head to fairfieldrsl.com.au
ARTISAN FOOD MARKET – SYDNEY LIVING MUSEUMS (SYDNEY)
For one evening only, over 40 of Sydney’s finest food artisans will serve up their delicious baked, pickled, smoked, crafted and poured delights at Sydney Living Museums’ annual Christmas Fare right in the heart of the CBD. The market will feature award-winning artisans such as Sweetness the Patisserie, Pepe Saya butter, Carlson’s Handcrafted cordials and The Bread & Butter Project, alongside popular picklers’ Cornersmith, Hands Lane, Kitchen by Mike, and The Jam Bandits. Treat yourself to an authentic New York bagel from the Brooklyn Boy Bagels, tea blends from The Vegan Teahouse, Kettle Town and Perfect South, amazing charcuterie from Steph’s Gourmet Foods and delectable cheese by Pecora Dairy. A list of all participating stallholders is available online at http://sydneylivingmuseums.com.au/events/christmas-fare-artisan-food-gif...
BULLA WHIPPING CREAM
The silly season is nearly upon us and preparation for family festivities has already begun for many. Bulla Dairy Foods have launched an innovative new cream product set to save time and effort in the kitchen without compromising on taste – Bulla Whipping Cream. Bulla’s new Whipping Cream is unique in that, unlike other whipping creams, it whips in less than 90 seconds and holds its peaks for longer than regular cream. As with all Bulla Cream products, the new Whipping Cream is made with fresh milk, delivered daily from local dairy farms. Whether you’re hosting Christmas Day for the family, attending a backyard barbeque or joining friends at one of the many pre-Christmas eating occasions Bulla’s new Whipping Cream is perfect for all kinds of seasonal desserts. Visit http://www.bulladairyfoods.com.au/ for more details.
BRAND NEW FERRERO ROCHER PRODUCTS
Ferrero Rocher is adding a touch of gold this Christmas with two brand new, exquisitely crafted products, lovingly made in time for the festive season. Chocolate enthusiasts can prepare to revel in delight as Ferrero introduces its most exclusive chocolate box yet, alongside a hanging Christmas tree treat, set to bring a taste of luxury to whole family. Try the Golden Gallery chocolate box. The brand new Golden Gallery chocolate box showcases the very best of the Ferrero Rocher chocolate collection and introduces four exclusive new additions, including:
Tenderly white – A whole hazelnut surrounded by creamy hazelnut filling and wrapped in a delicate white chocolate coating.
Manderly – A crunchy whole almond wrapped in a creamy filling and delicately encased in a unique hazelnut and meringue shell.
Tenderly Nougat – Delicious nougat surrounding a crunchy whole hazelnut, wrapped in a milk chocolate coating.
Cappuccino – A delicate and unique combination of creamy cappuccino filling, surrounded by crisp wafer shell and a coffee and chocolate coating.
Also available is the new Ferrero Rocher Star. The perfect little Christmas gift or stocking filler, the brand new Ferrero Rocher Star guarantees to make Christmas tree decorating that extra bit special this year. The perfectly formed golden star-shaped casket features three classic Ferrero Rocher pralines and makes an elegant, yet edible addition to any Christmas tree.
KING STREET WHARF – CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR’S OFFERINGS (SYDNEY)
Looking for some places to celebrate Christmas or bring in 2015? King Street Wharf will be open with a diverse range of restaurants and bars for you and your family to enjoy. Casa Ristorante Italiano, Nick’s Seafood, Kobe Jones, Meat District and Wharf Teppanyaki will all be open on Christmas Day for lunch and dinner from 11.30am till 10.00pm. Be sure to reserve a table quickly, as bookings are already going fast. Celebrate a festive New Year’s Eve on the waterfront at Nick’s Seafood, La Cita, Steersons or Casa Ristorante Italiano with all of these venues open from midday on December 31.
If you want to try a ticketed event, book in at King Street Wharf’s Bungalow8, Cargo Bar, Cargo Lounge, The loft or Georges for a night of fun. For recovery on New Year’s Day, visit one of the many venues open all day including La Cita, Casa Ristorante Italiano, Meat District and Nicks Seafood. Bungalow8, Cargo Bar, Cargo Lounge and The Loft are open on New Year’s Day from 11.30am for lunch with Steersons, Georges, Kobe Jones and Wharf Teppanyaki open for dinner. For more information about Christmas trading hours head to each venue’s website for further details.
DINESMART CAMPAIGN
StreetSmart Australia and its restaurant partners are calling on Australians to make a difference this Christmas by supporting the upcoming DineSmart campaign which occurs from November 10 until December 31 across the country. Now in its 12th year, the campaign’s simple formula makes it easy for anyone to get involved and raise much-needed funds for local grassroots charities supporting homelessness. Restaurants participating in DineSmart this year across NSW, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and ACT include hot venues such as China Lane, Cho Cho San, The Apollo, Bishop Sessa, Bloodwood, The Victoria Room, 4Fourteen, Cafe Sydney, Longrain, Mamasita, Chin Chin, Baby, Kong, Pei Modern, Gingerboy, Top Paddock, Cutler & Co Dining Room & Bar, Ezard, Cookie, Hatch & Co, Stokehouse, South Side Diner, Nantucket Kitchen, Mighty Mighty, Aubergine and Windy Point Restaurant.
DineSmart is run by restaurants Australia-wide that ask patrons to add a small $2 donation to their bill. The initiative has raised over $2.4 million since it started in 2003, where the money collected is donated directly to support homeless refuges and charities selected based on their need and proximity to participating restaurants. A complete list of participating restaurants can be viewed at http://www.streetsmartaustralia.org/findrestaurant. Donations can be made at any time on the StreetSmart website http://www.streetsmartaustralia.org/getinvolved.
POP UP AT THE MCA CAFÉ (SYDNEY)
MCA Café, located on Level 4 of the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia has launched its New York Now! Pop-Up menu to coincide with the MCA’s summer exhibition of portrait artist Chuck Close titled CHUCK CLOSE – Prints, Process & Collaboration. MCA Café’s New York Now! Pop-Up pays playful homage to Close’s home base in New York with the café menu drawing inspiration from the New York food scene. The MCA Café, with undoubtedly one of the best gallery dining locations in Sydney offers patrons and diners a sensory connection to the art exhibition through food, a total and enjoyable immersion in all things New York. Open 7 days a week with late night Thursday’s, the café is fully licensed and features an all-day dining menu. Find out more at http://www.mca.com.au/visit/mca-cafe-sculpture-terrace
DRINKS
ICEBERGS NEW YEAR’S DAY (SYDNEY)
Recognised as one of the world’s greatest parties, Icebergs New Year’s Day is gearing up for yet another spectacular celebration. Featuring a star studded line-up of local and international talent, Bondi Beach will be hotter in more ways than one as Maurice Terzini and Angus McDonald of “Sneaky” fame, transform Sydney’s favourite two-hat restaurant into the ultimate party destination. Sydney born, Californian based summertime-dance-demi-gods Bag Raiders, make their debut appearance at Icebergs this year. With a brand new album in the bag, and classic tunes like Shooting Stars and Sunlight under their belt; expect hands in the air from the get go! Los Angeles daytime disco kings Poolside worked their way into musical folklore on the back of some legendary mix tapes. Their debut album Pacific Standard Time was released in 2012 and received widespread critical acclaim. They will set the tone like no one else can, as they aptly take to the stage in the world’s most beautiful poolside location. Along with co-hosts and Aussie dance legends Sneaky Sound System, Van She front man and ARIA nominated Nicky Night Time will be the crème de la crème of Sydney’s rich DJ talent…the heart and soul of the day! It is sure to be a New Year’s celebration to remember.
MR BLACK’S COLD DRIP COFFEE SPIRIT
Forget the Bloody Mary, Australian company Mr Black has crafted the ultimate drop to the hangover this silly season. Mr Black’s Cold Drip Coffee Spirit delivers a boozy coffee kick that’s sure to brush the dust off any night out, or gives a little nudge to an evening just beginning. No Tabasco sauce required, Mr Black’s coffee spirit is best served over ice (and/or with a dash of dairy or coconut milk for those so inclined). Distilled on the Central Coast of NSW using single origin beans from three continents, it’s the perfect tipple for the Australian coffee connoisseur looking for something a little more adult. For more information visit http://mrblack.co/
SUMMER GIN GARDEN AT LITTLE FISH BAR (SYDNEY)
Little Fish Bar, one of Sydney’s best waterfront small bars and well kept secrets, will be celebrating all things gin in the lead up to Christmas with the Little Fish Summer Gin Garden open from November 15 through to December 19. This stellar sun-drenched harbourside bar, perched at the end of Jones Bay Wharf in Pyrmont alongside Flying Fish Restaurant, is the perfect spot to sip a gin and tonic or gin cocktail. The space will feature a gorgeous herb and flower stair garden, lush vines and pops of colour as well as a killer new gin menu, hand-selected by Bar Manager and gin aficionado, Adrien Charpentier. The ‘Botanical Plot’ menu features a selection of 11 gins available straight up or mixed to your liking. Taste a premium gin such as G’Vine (Cognac, France), West Winds ‘The Cutglass (Dalkieth, Australia), and Monkey 47 (Loßburg, Germany) or go for one of the classics like Hendrick’s, Bombay Sapphire and Tanqueray No.10. Head to http://www.flyingfish.com.au/little-fish-bar for more details.
FASHION & CULTURE
THE ROCKS BOATSHED (SYDNEY)
The Rocks Boatshed, a unique outdoor cultural entertainment space to be set up on the Western Promenade Lawn (in front of MCA), will act as a lively festival hub during Corroboree Sydney, the nation’s largest Indigenous arts and cultural festival, November 21–30. Created by Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority, The Rocks Boatshed, a temporary interactive arts and cultural installation will host a variety of free events celebrating stories of Aboriginal life in Sydney and Aboriginal resilience. Along with tucker and drinks, The Rocks Boatshed will host film screenings, live music, dance workshops, writing workshops, storytelling, panel discussions, comedy acts and kids’ activities, with Koori Radio capturing all the action, broadcasting live every day.
Curated by SHFA’s Aboriginal Programming Manager, Marjorie Anderson, The Rocks Boatshed was born out of a meeting of minds last year. Eight prominent Aboriginal artists from diverse genres—performing artists Colin Kinchela, Nardi Simpson and Kyra Kum-Sing, photographic artist Barbara McGrady, cultural representative Donna Ingram and artists Joe Hurst, James Simon and Jasmine Sarin—worked with historians, elders and cultural leaders to create this wonderful project. Head to http://www.therocks.com/ for the full program.
FUTURE SHORTS FILM FESTIVAL (GOLD COAST)
Following a hugely successful inaugural sold out event held in Brisbane August this year, the second Future Shorts Film Festival screening lands at QT Gold Coast on November 29. More than 300 cities in 90 countries have participated in Future Shorts. And this season, the globally renowned pop-up short film festival will present showings from internationally celebrated festivals such as Cannes, Sundance and the BAFTA’s. As audiences have discovered, Future Shorts goes beyond screenings of great short filmsFuture Shorts has emerged as a full sensory experience with live entertainment and an exotic food and drinks menu to entice conversation, provoke thoughts, and dabble with emotions. To find out more, head to http://www.futureshorts.com.au/
BEN & JERRY’S OPENAIR CINEMAS (SYDNEY)
Ben & Jerry’s Openair Cinemas are back with a bang this summer, bringing music by day and movies by night to Sydney’s Bondi Beach. As part of a nationwide series of events, which are enjoyed by more than 150,000 people across Australia, the Sydney leg of the tour will take place on the lawn by the Bondi Pavilion, overlooking the ocean, from January 22 until March 1 2015.
With live music from an array of Sydney’s best up-and-coming artists every Saturday and Sunday - the latter with free ice cream and games as part of the Ben & Jerry’s Sundae Sessions – Ben & Jerry’s Openair Cinemas will once again be recreating their famously fun and friendly festival vibes. Melbourne stars Husky, the Sundae Sessions season headliners, will be kick-starting proceedings before a screening of ‘Pride’ at the Charity Launch on January 25.
Having toured with the likes of Gotye and Mumford & Sons, the trio are set to perform tracks from their forthcoming second album ‘Rucker’s Hill’. Tickets to the biggest night of the season are on sale now and all proceeds from ticket sales go to WWF-Australia’s efforts to protect the Great Barrier Reef. To check out the movie listings, or to purchase tickets, head to http://openaircinemas.com.au/