2014-08-27



In this week’s issue: One of our BIGGEST F&L Weekly's yet! Ben & Jerry's Open Air Cinema kicks off in Brisbane; Urban Purveyor Group open waterfront Bierhaus in Melbourne; A few Father's Day ideas; Swine & Co continues to grow; The Dungog Festival offers something a bit different; Sydney's beloved The Dough Collective expands; Surry Hills gets a new Middle Eastern restaurant; The best scenic drives in NSW; a new protein smoothie from Boostl the Munich Brauhaus opens in Melbourne; the Hill of Grace Restaurant is now officially open in Adelaide; we look forward to the Brisbane Good Food and Wine Show; good news from the iconic Opera Bar in Sydney; and SO much more.

FOOD

OPERA BAR’S SIGNED ON FOR ANOTHER 10 YEARS AT THE OPERA HOUSE (SYDNEY)

Solotel, the current operators of Opera Bar, in association with restaurant group, MorSul, have won the tender for a further ten-year lease at Opera Bar. Solotel and MorSul are thrilled to announce their partnership with the Sydney Opera House is being taken to the next level. Opera Bar is currently one of Sydney’s most-loved venues, and both Solotel and MorSul are incredibly excited to share their new concept and vision for the next phase of Opera Bar. It has sweeping views of the Sydney city skyline, Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House, and was first established in 2001. Since then it has gone on to win numerous awards including Best Bar in Australia two years running. Opera Bar will close for approximately four weeks in the last quarter of 2014 and be open for trading by the end of the year.

SAKÉ RESTAURANT & BAR EXPANDS TO DOUBLE BAY (SYDNEY)

Check our review of Saké HERE

The signature tastes and dynamic contemporary Japanese experience that Sydneysiders have grown to love from Saké Restaurant & Bar are coming to Double Bay with the opening of a new Saké in the exciting new InterContinental Hotel on 33 Cross Street.

Featuring a stunning bar, indoor seating for 120 and outdoor seating for up to 30, the new Saké Restaurant & Bar Double Bay will be an exciting addition to the burgeoning Double Bay dining scene. Guests will enjoy contemporary Japanese fare created by Sushi Master and Executive Chef Shaun Presland, who draws on authentic Japanese training to present an outstanding mix of new-style sushi and classic dishes.

As with its sister venues in Sydney’s The Rocks (hatted), Brisbane (hatted) and Melbourne, all food is matched with Japan’s finest sake and shochu varieties, with highly trained staff and the fabulous eastern suburbs location ensuring that guests enjoy an exceptional dining experience that won’t easily be forgotten.

http://www.sakerestaurant.com.au/

BRISBANE GOOD FOOD AND WINE SHOW (BRISBANE)

Come and enjoy a chilled out atmosphere where it’s all about discovering and celebrating food at this year’s Brisbane Good Food & Wine Show, October 17-19.Take a step back to the simple pleasures in life, participate in a masterclass and chat with local farmers, producers and winemakers while your taste buds explore boutique labels you’ve yet to discover. This year’s Show will feature the new Artisan Alley where you can discover Queensland labels you won’t find in the supermarket. Meet and greet some of the finest local food artisans, from Gympie to Northern NSW, and sample what could be your new pantry must-have. Once you have a few key ingredients in your basket, head over to the Laucke Creative Kitchen where Sammy & Bella (My Kitchen Rules) will be preparing interesting dishes using products directly from the Show floor. There is so much that the Brisbane Good Food & Wine Show has to offer in 2014. Check out http://goodfoodshow.com.au/ for a full schedule of events and attractions.



SWINE & CO INTRODUCES 'SWINE THURSDAYS'(SYDNEY)

Check our review of Swine & Co HERE

Fresh off award nominations at the Time Out Food Awards 2014, the porky Swine & Co are set to supplement their weekly calender of events with 'Swine Thursdays', bringing the venue to life for those that don't want to wait for the weekend. From 28th August 'Swine Thursdays' will be offering guests a live DJ, free bar snacks and weekly bar specials providing the best excuse to celebrate pay day and pig out at Swine & Co.

Along with special Swine Thursday activities, diners can enjoy Ribs & Beer for $40, the famous Suckling Pig and other dishes from the new and improved bar food menu designed by acclaimed Head Chef Matthew Weller. For those with a real appetite, head down to the restaurant to enjoy the food and hospitality that the venue has been building its incredible reputation on since opening in March 2014.

www.swineandco.com.au

TRADITIONAL BAVARIAN BIERHAUS OPENS IN MELBOURNE (SYDNEY)

Urban Purveyor Group have opened a new Über venue in Melbourne with the launch of Munich Brauhaus. The 1,100 venue capacity will include seating for 900 people including 250 waterfront seats, 150 staff in Bavarian costume, 1,500 square meters of Sourth Wharf riverfront real estate, and 365 days of Oktoberfest greatness. You don't have to be a math wiz to realise that this all adds up to one of the most exciting openings Melbourne has seen all year.

The menu has been designed with a nod to Melbourne’s sophisticated palate, with traditional Bavarian items such as house made Sausages, Schnitzel and Pork Knuckle appearing on the menu. The key focus however is modern Bavaria with a twist, diners can enjoy Lachs Tartar, Pork Rillettes, Ham Hock Terrine and more. While non-meat eaters will delight in discovering fresh locally sourced salads including the Beet Salad and the Sautéed Kale and Toasted Farro.

The kitchen is under the direction of Head Chef Ewart Wardhaugh who brings his culinary philosophy built on a love of shared experiences over food. His star of the show is the Munich Festplatter, a tasting platter featuring Crackling Pork Belly, Artisan House Made Smoked Sausage, Crisp Toasted Pork Knuckle, Schnitzel alongside traditional Bavarian Condiments Sauerkraut, Red Cabbage, Apple Compote, Mashed Potatoes and Bier Jus.

Of course, any Bavarian experience would not be complete without a showcase of the tradition and religious commitment to quality scene in Bavarian Bier. With Fürstenberg Pils exclusively available at the venue, alongside global icons Löwenbräu Original, Stiegl Goldbräu, Franziskaner Hefe Weizen Hell, as well as the range of brews exclusively produced for Oktoberfest and local crafted brewed ‘Kellerbier’, made strictly to the Bavarian Purity Law. Throughout the year the venue will also introduce a series of exclusive and limited edition biers. A full wine offering including a selection of Australian and international favourites will also be on offer.

Munich Brauhaus is now open on Melbourne's South Wharf

www.munichbrauhaus.com



MIDDLE EASTERN RESTAURANT ZAHLI OPENS IN SURRY HILLS (SYDNEY)

New Surry Hills restaurant Zahli has just opened its doors on Elizabeth Street, seeking the raise the bar for modern Middle Eastern dining in Sydney with a fresh contemporary twist on the rich and diverse cuisine. Traditional Lebanese dining is championed with a modern take by owner Mohammed Issmail and Chef Abdul Shams, who want to take the rich tradition of Lebanon's famous mezza from the Zahli region along the beautiful banks of the Bardouni River near Mount Sannine and bring that to Sydney's inner-west.

With a long history of restaurant partnerships in Lebanon and Dubai, Zahli is Mohammad’s first Sydney restaurant. Passionate about creating an extraordinary experience for diners, the restaurant offers amazing food, service and ambience. Whether it's freshly made dips, salads, or shared hot mezza such as sambousik or falafel, you'll be well taken care of. Vegetarians are also will catered for, with mouth-watering fare the whole table can share. Mains sound traditional but are refreshingly distinct under Shams’s expert guidance. Zahli’s signatures dishes like mansaf lamb, mixed grill, shawarma lamb and chicken, lemon garlic chicken will make you return to dine again and again. There’s also an extensive seafood selection that gives Sydney’s favourites an exciting modern Middle Eastern makeover.

SYDNEY'S MEJICO GOES THROUGH AN EXCITING EVOLUTION (SYDNEY)

Sydney CBD restaurant Mejico is going through an exciting transformation, not only introducing new dishes to it's impressive food line up, but reworking the bar offerings as well. Staff are really keen to supplement the already popular establishment in a big way, working with their fresh kitchen team - headed by new Head Chef Shishir Rajbhandari and Mexican Sous Chef Pablo Galindo - to take the food menu to the Yucatan, Baja and Veracruz regions of Mexico as well as wider Latin American.

This is not Mexican street food. You won’t find burritos, enchiladas or nachos on the menu, rather, a reflection of today’s Mexico where traditional techniques and flavours are the bedrock of the country’s burgeoning modern cuisine.

Shishir and Pablo have created a menu that features 30 newly created shared dishes alongside some of Mejico’s original house favourites. Menu highlights include:

• Tuna tostadas - Sashimi-grade tuna, tiger’s milk, spiced tapioca pearls ($16).

• Beef short rib - Braised and glazed in housemade smoky honey and chipotle marinade with pickled onion ($28).

• Whole deconstructed flounder - Pasilla, morita and ancho chilli-marinated flounder fillets served inside an edible crisp flounder shell with fresh fennel, mint and red radish ($36).

• Whole Bullhorn Chilli – Filled with chorizo, black turtle beans and queso freco with red pepper and haberno sauce ($16).

• Meximisu - A commandeered classic with Café XO Patron, cinnamon-spiced chocolate mousse, sweet mascarpone ($12).

Mejico’s bar has undergone just as much change. Recently extended to create a striking entrance, the bar is home to more than 230 tequila and mezcals, as well as one of the world's largest selection of 100% agave tequila. In addition to tequila masterclasses, Mejico has also created its very own Tequila Wheel, designed to help guide drinkers as well as encourage experimentation. The Tequila Wheel is a handheld device that allows customers to select their preference in price, intensity and flavour and provides them with a tailored tequila selection. The wheel can be used when perched at the bar or seated for dinner – just ask for it when you’re next in.

http://www.mejico.com.au/

DUNGOG FESTIVAL – SCONE BAKING WITH THE CWA (NSW)

The Dungog Festival, running August 28 - 31, is set to provide a festival experience like no other this year. It is full of quirky and unique events that will stick in your memory. Not only is this a place to pitch your tent, see a fantastic indie move and see some great live music, but this is a place to learn and try new things. One of the highlights of the festival looks to be the scone baking with the CWA. We all know the secrets to the perfect scones, delicious damper and perfect preserves lie in the minds of the CWA, so here's your chance to learn from the experts. The CWA will be conducting workshops and demonstrations throughout the festival weekend, so stop pop by for a lesson in cottage crafts and a delicious $6 Devonshire Tea. In addition you can meet the farmers of the lush Dungog valley, see the art that the local talent has to offer, and so much more. Head to http://tix.dungogfestival.com.au/browseName2.asp for more information.

MORDEO BAR & BISTRO TO HOSTS G.H.MUMM CHAMPAGNE TASTING WITH FIVE COURSE DEGUSTATION (SYDNEY)

Check our review of Mordeo's official launch HERE

Currently enjoying the status of one of the hottest new bars in Sydney Mordeo Bistro & Bar are set to host an exclusive G.H.Mumm champagne tasting with a five course degustation menu on Tuesday 16th September. The event will be an intimate one and will be hosted by G.H.Mumm ambassador Chris Sheehy, who will guide guests through a curated tasting list of champagnes which have been expertly matched with each dish. Considering the diverse menu at Mordeo, this is not going to be something anyone will want to miss out on.

Date: Tuesday 16th Sept

Time: 6.00pm

Where: Mordeo Bistro & Bar – 126 Phillip Street, Sydney CBD (on the corner of Hunter & Phillip Street)

Tickets: $130 per person

To purchase your ticket contact pascalmordeo@gmail.com or call 02 9232 1306
www.mordeo.com.au

NEW MENUS FOR NEUTRAL BAY FAVOURITE SOCAL RESTAURANT AND BAR (SYDNEY)

Check our review of SoCal's official launch HERE

In a short time, Neutral Bay bar SoCal has amassed a massive following throughout Sydney, with word of their indulgent Southern California inspired food menu travelling all over the city. Renowned for both their food and drink offerings, SoCal is set to evolve their offerings with changes to their food and drink menus timed for spring and summer.

SoCal Head Chef Zac Smart’s new menu includes Jerk chicken salad with jicama, rice and herbs; Sticky lamb ribs, spicy peas and broad beans; Mahi Mahi with lentil salad, rocket pesto and veg crisps; Snapper ceviche with cucumber, chilli and crisp eschallots; Zucchini salad with parmesan and parsley; Lamb empanadas with ricotta and currant; and many more palate pleasers including fresh twists on the ever popular sliders, tacos and quesadillas!

SoCal’s extensive wine list is comprehensive and accessible with an obvious focus on the Californian region; the bar also showcases an extensive selection of the American craft beers, local ciders, spirits and of course cocktails to perfectly compliment the menu. Bar Manager Joe Worthington has worked with the team to create the new cocktail list, with quirky inclusions such as Chica Chipotle, Piscolicious Socaldelicious, Smoke & Berries, Venice Beach Fizz, Tiki Tropicana, and Rum Dog Millionaire.

THE DOUGH COLLECTIVE EXPANDS EAST (SYDNEY)

Check our review of The Dough Collective's CBD store launch HERE

It is no secret that The Dough Collective has been a raving success since it first opened its doors six months ago on George Street, Sydney. Bread lovers around Sydney have been rolling into our store to sample and purchase our handcrafted and freshly baked bread. With now over 60 products to choose from, The Dough Collective caters for both the sweet and savoury taste buds of foodies in Sydney CBD.

Bursting with flavour and just delish, they are now spreading our bread and expanding out into the East. As of August 22 Eastern suburbs foodies can start enjoying The Dough Collective bread in their own neighbourhood. Now there is no need to commute into the city, but for those who work in the CBD and live in the East, they can visit The Dough Collective more often to take advantage of their Knead Rewards Card.

http://doughcollective.com.au/

SURRY HILLS' NOMAD HOSTS LETHBRIDGE AND DISCIPLES WINE DINNER (SYDNEY)

Victoria's Lethbridge Wines will be paired with a five-course dinner at Surry Hills favourite Nomad on September 30. Present throughout the dinner as well will be disciples Byrne Wines and Between 5 Bells. The event will be a one-off opportunity to pair some truly unique Australian wines with a special Nomad menu while being hosted by Dr Ray Nadeson of Lethbridge, who has been described as the 'Mad Scientist' of Australian wine. Tickets for the dinner are $145 per person and includes 5 courses with a selection of matched wines. The dinner is on September 30th at 7pm for a 7:30pm sit down. Visit http://restaurantnomad.com.au/reservations/ to book online or call the restaurant on (02) 9280 3395.

SEAFOOD AT BUNGALOW 8 FOR FATHER'S DAY (SYDNEY)

Gather the kids for a family-friendly day on the harbour to celebrate Father's Day at Bungalow 8. Enjoy a Hot & Cold Seafood Platter with 4 Aguilas for Dad for $115. Let us keep the kids entertained from 1-4pm with a variety of activities as the adults enjoy the food, drinks and beautiful view on the first Sunday of Spring. Entertainment includes Face Painting, Plaster Painting, Balloon Twisting, Airbrush Tattoos, Magic Tricks, Games, Prizes and Dancing. Hurry and book for your chance to win a Beefeater BBQ for Dad. http://bungalow8sydney.com/

THE TILBURY HOSTS 'FATHER'S FEAST' FOR FATHER'S DAY (SYDNEY)

Woolloomooloo favourite The Tilbury has a bunch of new offerings in the coming weeks, one of which is a special 'Father's Feast' for Father's Day. On the annual celebration of dad, September 7th will see The Tilbury offer a tempting steak & beer deal that's guaranteed to give the ol' man a treat. For $49 per person The Tilbury are offering a 350g Rib Eye Steak on the bone, with a bottle of 568ml James Squire One Fifty Lashes Pale Ale. The venue's popular a la carte menu will also be available should you need to fit in anything after that big, juicy steak. Reservations essential - contact Gez on 9368 1955 or gez@tilburyhotel.com.au

LADIES' COCKTAIL MASTERCLASS AT THE TILBURY (SYDNEY)

Not just out to satisfy the dad's of the world, The Tilbury are also set to introduce a series of Ladies' Cocktail Masterclasses where a group of ladies (minimum 10) can learn to make 2 different cocktails with The Tilbury's talented mixologists. Eight different canapes will also be served on the deck to make for a very satisfying two-hour event. The masterclasses will be held on Saturdays (commencing 6 September) at 12pm-2pm or 3pm-5pm, $60 per person. Reservations essential - contact Gez on 9368 1955 or gez@tilburyhotel.com.au

THE HILTON TO HOST HIGH TEA PARTY (SYDNEY)

The iconic Hilton Sydney will be hosting an elegant series of high tea sessions this November, putting a spin on the classic tradition with an event which mixes beauty, boutique, and shopping with a fabulous runway show. The High Tea Party will feature decadent cakes and champagne, while giving guests a chance to indulge in beauty treatments, fashion and boutique market shopping, and celebrate the strength and determination of breast cancer survivors with the runway show.

Sessions will happen on 8th and 9th of November at The Hilton Sydney with sessions beginning from 9:30am up until 6pm. Each session runs for 1 hour. Tickets can be booked for $75 with a promo code "HIGHTEA" from www.thehighteaparty.com.au.

CONNOISSEUR RELEASES LUXURIOUS NEW RANGE OF ICE CREAM!

In news that will excite every living person in the country, renowned ice cream brand Connoisseur have released their new Empire Collection of luxury ice creams with four unique flavour combinations. Next time you go shopping to pick up a Murray River Salted Caramel you might also want to get a bit extra, with ice cream, inspired by four historical characters whom are each connected to the origins of ice cream, recently launched in Coles, Woolworths, and selected independent retailers nationally.

In an ode to Italy and Emperor Nero, coffee flavoured ice cream has been taken to the next level with chocolate coated hazelnuts and hazelnut liqueur. Next up, a homage to King Louis XIV with French vanilla ice cream with choc flakes and armagnac sauce.

**Take a second to wipe that drool off your keyboard**

The Empire Collection continues with inspiration from the east and the extravagant Emperor Jing Zong for red bean and toasted coconut. Finally we taste the flavours of Persia with a tribute to King Cyrus in divine pistachio ice cream with cinnamon, honey, and date sauce

In celebration of the new CONNOISSEUR Empire Collection, CONNOISSEUR, with the help of Melbourne street-artist Steve Cross - who helped design the new packaging - will bring the four flavours and their inspirers to life at the Blank Space gallery in Surry Hills, from Wednesday 17 September to Monday 22 September with The Empire Collection Pop-Up Gallery.

Event:

The Empire Collection Pop-Up Gallery

Where:

Blank Space Gallery

374 Crown Street

Surry Hills NSW 2010

When:

Wednesday 17 Sept: 12pm – 8pm

Thursday 18 Sept: 12pm – 8pm

Friday 19 Sept: 11am – 9pm

Saturday 20 Sept: 11am – 9pm

Sunday 21 Sept: 12pm – 8pm

The Empire Collection is available now at Coles, Woolworths and selected Independent retailers nationally. RRP$7.99 for a 470ml tub.

www.connoisseuricecream.com.au

#EmpireCollection.

THE REAL FOOD FESTIVAL (SUNSHINE COAST QLD)

The 2014 Real Food Festival will take place on the weekend of September 13-14 in the beautiful Hinterland village of Maleny, in the heart of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. Now in its fourth year, the Real Food Festival is a celebration of the wonderful diversity of foods on offer from Sunshine Coast producers, manufacturers, retailers and restaurants, and provides a great opportunity for visitors to experience and taste authentic local food, connect with suppliers from right along the food chain, as well as relax and have fun in the natural Sunshine Coast Hinterland environment. It's a festival for all the family, with a special children's area and activities designed to allow their parents time to enjoy the more adult attractions. This year, Christine Manfield will be the guest chef. Christine is one of Australia’s most renowned chefs, with an expansive work portfolio and is a strong Australian culinary ambassador. She has published eight award-winning books, ran leading Australian restaurants for more than two decades, and is also a food and travel writer. This is on top of the countless demonstrations of culinary talent across the festival, as well as stunning entertainment. Entry is $20 for a daily adult pass and children under 16 are free. Visit www.realfoodfestivals.com.au for more info.

LA SVOLTA GROUP BOOKINGS (MELBOURNE)

Check our review of La Svolta HERE

With many eateries nowadays opting for a 'no bookings' policy, it is becoming increasingly difficult to organise those large group outings and dining excursions. It is even rarer for a venue to remain open when taking on large bookings. Both of La Svolta's Prahran and Hampton venues happily take reservations for both small and large parties - and don't even need to close to accommodate. With set menu prices ranging between $45.00 and $60.00 for between 10 and 40 people, La Svolta can take care of your wining and dining needs. For those with groups under 10 people, no set menu is necessary. If you're after a venue to cater for your private daytime function, La Svolta will also open for lunch for parties of 20 or more. La Svolta are also one of a handful of pizzerias in Australia that hold the esteemed Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (AVPN) Accreditation, as awarded by the official association in Naples.

HILL OF GRACE RESTAURANT OFFICIALLY OPENS (ADELAIDE)

Adelaide Oval’s Hill of Grace Restaurant is set to officially open its doors, offering a true fine dining experience while showcasing the best seasonal produce and premium wine the state has to offer. With the launch of the restaurant comes the unveiling of a menu created by Hill of Grace Restaurant Head Chef Dennis Leslie and the world’s only complete set of Henschke Hill of Grace – a priceless collection from 1958 to the current vintage. Based on a produce-driven, seasonal food philosophy with French, Asian and Australian influences and a strong focus on the use of locally grown, farmed or fished produce, the menu is complemented by a range of more than 160 South Australian wines, headlined by Henschke’s acclaimed range from Eden Valley and the Adelaide Hills. The Hill of Grace Restaurant is already positioning itself to become one of the State’s finest restaurants with hundreds of bookings made since July. Booking enquiries can be made on 08 8205 4777 or hillofgracerestaurant@adelaideoval.com.au.

SPOONFED FOODS – SAVOURY JAM

Want to try something brand new? Something you’d never think of eating usually? Try Spoonfed Foods’ Savoury Jam. These jams are available in seven delicious varieties including Garlic Jam, Winemakers Jam, Snag Jam, Hot Jam, Lamb Jam, Ham Jam and Pork Jam. All ingredients are slow cooked and finished with freshly chopped herbs, spices and lemon zest to achieve maximum flavour and complexity. Pair the jams with your meat of choice, incorporate them in your favourite recipes or simply enjoy them with cheese and crackers – they will enhance your meal and leave your tastebuds wanting more. All jams are 100% gluten free with no added preservatives.Savoury Jams are available at gourmet grocers, delis and butchers across the country as well as Harris Farm, Thomas Dux, David Jones and online at www.spoonfedfoods.com.au

DRINKS

REKORDERLIG CIDER NEW POMEGRANATE FLAVOUR

Rekorderlig Cider is set to burst into summer with their exciting new flavour Pomegranate. This delicious addition to the Rekorderlig family has been created specifically with the Australian palate in mind. This distinctly unique flavour of crisp pear cider, beautifully blended with pomegranate, has a delicious summer fruit fragrance & is a perfect way to liven up your taste buds. This remarkable combination is best served over ice with a wedge of lime for a delicious fresh summer taste. Recorded as one of the oldest fruits in history, these crisp little pockets of flavour have made a modern day comeback due to their delicious zest & opulent colour. Pomegranate now features on many restaurant and cocktail bar menus, appealing to both the savoury and sweet palate. Rekorderlig Pomegranate Cider marks the start of the ‘Beautifully Swedish’ brands national ‘Celebrate the Summer Campaign’, which will pay homage to Australian’s love of adventure and discovery.

Rekorderlig are also throwing a music festival in Thredbo, 'Sounds in the Snow', which will be headlined by Future Classic Trio Panama. Details can be found HERE

NEW ADDITIONS TO THE CLIFF DIVE (SYDNEY)

Check our review of The Cliff Dive HERE

Still in its infancy, Papuan inspired venue The Cliff Dive has claimed its stake in Sydney’s late night scene, establishing a cult following of night owls who return week after week for a vibe that can’t be found anywhere else in the city. Drinks flow and the music is warm and tropical. As the night gets later, the music gets louder and the underwater dance floor gets a steamy work out. TCD’s next big aim is to try and transform the venue into more than just another night club. Clubbers fear not. There will be no change to the dance off that occurs every weekend, however before 11pm, the underwater dancefloor will enjoy more of a warm lounge vibe. In addition, there will be a new food section called Yurippi. Yurippi will be pumping out street food that will take you straight to a South East Asian island paradise. The cocktail drink list has also expanded and remains deliberately delicious with a focus on great drinks and even better drinking.

PRESSMAN'S CIDER RELAUNCHES WITH A NEW LOOK AND NEW OPTIONS

Loved all-Australian brand Pressman's Cider have relaunched, bringing a new look to the refreshing drink as well as some new products which offer cider drinkers more options. Brewed with fresh apples sourced from the renowned Goulburn Valley, Pressman's Cider seeks to enter a wider market with a new crisp, clean brew in addition to the first all-Australian, mid-strength cider variety. There's plenty of people that now look to cider in pretty much any situation so a lower strength alternative provides a nice option for those wanting something a bit different.

Pressman’s Original has an RRP of $16.99 per six-pack, while Pressman’s Mid-Strength has an RRP of $14.99 per six-pack.

COFFEE GALLERIA (SYDNEY)

Coffee Galleria, a boutique coffee roastery, is set to take Sydney by storm at The Coffee Experience, and will be held from September 4 – 6 at The Royal Hall of Industries. Coffee Galleria sources its gallery of coffee from around the world, and has developed close relationships and direct trade arrangements with famers in Sumatra, Indonesia and Papua New Guinea. From training baristas to creating private label brands, and introducing cold drip coffee methods to the public, Coffee Galleria is committed to reinvigorating specialty coffee in Australia. Don't miss out on seeing Adore Coffee's Coffee Lab - the brainchild of Nick Mastro of Adore Coffee and Coffee Galleria. Not only a unique concept, you'll be able to taste firsthand Adore Estate's amazing blends. This concept has also been translated into a permanent Concept store on the Gold Coast.

BOOST INTRODUCES A NEW SMOOTHIE

Boost have continued to follow their mantra of exploring ways of making healthy easy for their customers with the introduction of the Protein Supreme, a smoothie with added strength. The first in Boost’s new Premier range, it serves up a whopping 32g of protein and an abundance of natural, wholesome ingredients in just one serve. The Protein Supreme is teemed with protein-rich ingredients and nutrients such as chia seeds and whey protein (32gms) with the added benefit of Boost’s immunity and vita boosters. It’s also loaded up with carbohydrates, healthy fats, fibre and over 20 micronutrients, with added bananas, coconut water, coconut milk and dates, providing a satisfying, full-bodied and nutritious smoothie. Mixed with ice, it’s sweetened with honey and muesli, with an added touch of cinnamon to give it a more rounded flavour. This brand new smoothie will be available at Booststores until September 7. For more information visit boostjuice.com.au

FASHION & CULTURE

BEN & JERRY'S OPENAIR CINEMA (BRISBANE)

Ben & Jerry’s Openair Cinemas are back with a bang this spring, bringing music by day and movies by night to their original Brisbane home at South Bank’s Rainforest Green from September 28 until November 9. Brisbane is the first stop on the outdoor event’s national tour that reaches 150,000 festivalgoers across Australia. With live music from an array of Brisbane’s best up-and-coming artists every Sunday as part of the Ben & Jerry’s Sundae Sessions, Ben & Jerry’s Openair Cinemas will once again be recreating its famously fun and friendly festival vibes. Melbourne band Husky, the Sundae Sessions season headliners, will be kickstarting proceedings before a screening of What We Do In the Shadows at the Charity Launch on September 28, with tickets to the biggest night of the season on sale 28 August. The screenings range from new movies like Lucy, How To Train Your Dragon 2, and Guardians of the Galaxy, to cult classics such as Labyrinth and Dirty Dancing.

The cinema is open Tuesday through to Sunday and screening up to two films per night on a 2K HD digital cinema system and colossal 12m by 6m screen. Moviegoers can look forward to enjoying an alfresco cinema experience like no other. This season has a strictly limited capacity amongst the trees of the Rainforest Green, so festivalgoers will want to book ahead to secure their tickets.

For a full schedule, check out http://openaircinemas.com.au/

THE FLYING WINEMAKER SERIES BEGINS AIRING

The Flying Winemaker, a television series airing on the Discovery Network’s TLC Channel, will follow the journey of Hong Kong-based master winemaker Eddie McDougall as he sets out to discover the finest wines Asia has to offer, in addition to pairing local cuisines with a range of phenomenal wines. The series is part of Eddie's mission in revolutionising the way people consume Asian food with wine, enlightening the masses with fun facts on wine makers of the untapped Asian region.

At a special launch in Sydney's gorgeous The Golden Age Cinema & Bar, guests - including Eddie himself - previewed the series via an exclusive Australian advance screening.

During some quality Q&A time, Eddie explained the rise of Asian wineries - “The most exciting location, in terms of the most sophistication, it’s definitely Japan. The Japanese drink the quirkiest and most exotic wines. In terms of all of Asia, spending the most money and enjoying the most prestigious wines, it would definitely be Hong Kong.”

Guests were welcomed with Eddie McDougall’s own blends of 2012 Rosé and Pinot Gris from King Valley, Victoria. A Dal Zotto Puccini Prosecco and Eddie McDougall’s Sangiovese from Alpine Valley, Victoria.

MY CHAMELEON WAREHOUSE SALE (SYDNEY)

If you want amazing looking clothes, name brands and prices that won’t drain your bank balance, then look no further. My Chameleon is having a huge warehouse sale in the first week of September, with up to 70% off their products. Come home with clothes from designers like Dion Lee, John Patrick, Rachel Comey, and so much more.

FATHER'S DAY GIFT IDEA: THE ULTIMATE DAD CHAIR

Think dad needs to learn to relax a bit more? The Stressless® range not only offers functionality and comfort and is aesthetically beautiful; the furniture collection has also been the benchmark in Scandinavian style and comfort, combining elegant design and ultimate relaxation. For over 40 years Stressless® have been creating the perfect addition to any living room, more so the perfect gift this Father’s Day.

The Dad’s chair is not just an ordinary piece of furniture, not only is it a place to rest and sit back and watch your favourite television show or the footy, read or nap, it is also a place where memories and traditions are created. With different varities such as the Metro and Recliner range, or the Magic and Jazz ranges, Stressless aims to make sure the perfect size, texture, and feel is available so you can really give the ol' man a gift he'll get the most out of.

http://www.stressless.com.au/

FIT CONNECTIONS (BRISBANE)

The increasing demand for exercise that involves anything but the monotonous task of running on a treadmill for a mind-numbing hour has prompted an explosive culture of ‘social-physical fitness’, and the opening of new Brisbane gym, Fit Connections. The rise of obstacle and novelty races such as Tough Mudder and The Colour Run are testament to the popularity of social-physical fitness and northside Brisbane gym, Fit Connections, is meeting demand with fitness sessions that have clients both groaning and laughing. It’s been well-documented that participants who exercise in groups or pairs push themselves harder, burn more calories, and are more willing to workout for longer compared to those who go it alone. At Fit Connections there are no treadmills, bikes, or cross trainers. Instead, there are heavy-duty obstacles with equipment such as tyres, ropes, and monkey bars to provide high intensity training that can be customised to suit any fitness level from peak athletes to the newest novice. To find out more about Fit Connections, check out www.http://fitconnections.com.au/

TOP ROAD TRIPS AND SCENIC DRIVES (NSW)

Over the weekend of August 22 – 24, the V8 Supercars Sydney Motorsport Park 400 played host to the highly anticipated round nine of the V8 Supercars Championships. Ahead of the event, celebrated V8 Supercars Driver Mark Winterbottom shared his favourite drives in NSW. He mentioned the drive alone the Great Western Highway as being one of the most beautiful and scenic. With the mention of road tripping and scenic drives, it got people thinking about the best drives of New South Wales. The team at Destination NSW put together a grand list of the best driving routes of the entire state:

The Grand Pacific Drive – is a 140 km coastal drive from south of Sydney, winding past glittering beaches and small coastal towns, crossing the Sea Cliff Bridge on its way to Wollongong.

The Greater Blue Mountains Drive – includes 18 separate discovery trails that branch off the main route, each one taking you on a unique adventure. The Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area which stretches from the Upper Hunter, to Mudgee, Goulburn, the Southern Highlands and the Hawkesbury is the link that connects the national parks and conservation area together. Along your journey visit the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden at Mount Tomah, Grose Valley lookouts and walking tracks.

Kosciuszko Alpine Way – is a drive that passes through the picturesque mountain valleys of Thredbo village and Dead Horse Gap to Khancoban. A short 175kms with spectacular scenery, you’ll spot Australia’s tallest peak in sight and an abundance of flora and fauna. The majority of the drive is through Kosciuszko National Park which can be covered in snow during the winter.

Pacific Coast – takes you through some of the most striking landscape in NSW. Starting in Sydney, you’ll pass through 48 national parks and 12 state forests along the drive. A continuous stretch of surf beaches, national parks and hinterland makes this drive worth it.

Waterfall Way – is a scenic drive from Coffs Harbour on the NSW North Coast through the tablelands of the New England region. The 191 km route spans Bellingen, up to Dorrigo and further onto Armidale, through an ever changing landscape of national parks to lush countryside, rainforest and wide open plains. Along the way, Dorrigo National Park has a series of elevated boardwalks allowing you to see the natural beauty and wildlife of a subtropical rainforest.

Fossickers Way – explore New England North West for historic villages, picturesque landscapes and Australian country hospitality. Enjoy a visit to Nundle Woollen Mill and the Golden Guitar at Tamworth – the nations country music capital. If you feel lucky try your hand at fossicking for sapphires.

Darling River Run – takes you on an outback adventure rich with indigenous culture and history that follows the Darling River from the outback town of Walgett in north-west NSW to Wentworth on the Victorian border. This is an amazing journey through isolated outback towns that were once thriving ports on the river – Bourke, Louth, Tilpa, Wilcannia and Wentworth.

For more information on V8 Supercars Sydney Motorsport Park 400 visit www.v8supercars.com.au

For more information on Sydney and New South Wales, visit www.sydney.com or www.visitnsw.com

WILLIAMS-SONOMA, INC. OPENS STORES IN CHATSWOOD CHASE (SYDNEY)

Williams-Sonoma, Inc. the North America based retailer specialising in high-quality products for the home, today announced that four stores for iconic kitchen and home furnishings brands Williams-Sonoma, Pottery Barn, Pottery Barn Kids and West Elm will open stores in Chatswood Chase on August 28. Williams-Sonoma, Inc. will open a further four stores in Chadstone Shopping centre late 2014. All four brands ship across Australia via e-commerce sites: williams-sonoma.com.au; potterybarn.com.au; potterybarnkids.com.au; westelm.com.au

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