In this week’s issue: The opening of Cho Cho San: Potts Point's newest culinary experience from the team behind The Apollo; The Rocks Aroma Festival is set to delight coffee lovers for another year; Rekorderlig helps skiers embrace winter with hot pool sessions in Thredbo; Gin fever hits The Clock Hotel for World Gin day; The Glenmore launches Rye July; Brisbane's Sono Portside has a new lunch experience, and so much more.
FOOD
CHO CHO SAN (SYDNEY)
Potts Point will be receiving an all new dining experience with the opening of Cho Cho San, from the team behind The Apollo. Cho Cho San is an interpretation of Tokyo’s izayaki, and wants to supply patrons with the rich flavours, and multi-layered food and drink culture of Japan. The restaurant has created with a focus on inventive drinks offerings which draw on Japanese drinking traditions, and presents an ever-changing and seasonal menu to keep customers coming back time and again.
NOMAD EXPLORES WITH DAMIEN PIGNOLET (SYDNEY)
On Tuesday 24 June, one of Australia’s highest regarded chefs, Damien Pignolet will join Nomad’s Executive Chef, Nathan Sasi for one night only in the kitchen and take guests on a culinary trek through France, matched perfectly with a selection of the finest French wines – a first for Nomad to serve French wines. The date for this unique event is June 24. Head along to the 6pm, 7pm, or 8pm session. Visit Nomad online to book now http://restaurantnomad.com.au/reservations/
NEW LUNCH TASTING COURSE AT SONO PORTSIDE (BRISBANE)
Elegant Japanese restaurant Sono Portside has unveiled a new lunch tasting course for Brisbanites keen on experiencing traditional Japanese flavours laced with modern essences. The four-course lunch has been carefully curated by Head Chef Masa San and paired with beautiful interior of the restaurant to transport guests to a tranquil Japanese haven come lunch time.
Appetizer - Platter combining Duck Teriyaki with asparagus; Soft Shell Crab with Shiso Salsa Kani Cream; and Croquette and Oyster with citrus soy sauce
Entrée - Tuna and Salmon Sashimi; Snapper Carpaccio with shallots, sesame seeds, and garlic vinaigrette.
Main - A choice of Sono's signature dish of Wagyu Steak Striplion MB7 with garlic soy jus; or Pan-fried Barramuni with garlic and lemon soy sauce. Both served with a portion of steamed rice and miso soup.
Dessert - Creamy Tiramisu with powdered chocolate and mascarpone cheese.
At only $58 per person, this menu is exclusive to Sono Portside. For an extra $17 per person guests may also choose to include matched wines, carefully selected to complement the flavours of each dish.
FARMER’S FEAST (SYDNEY)
It’s the dinner for locals, by locals. The Farmer’s Feast will be coming to Rushcutters to offer the taste of Australia. On June 24, get a mouthful of the finest grilled flat iron steak, brilliant Brussels Sprouts, and a fine glass of wine. July 29 will present customers with Barossa chicken Ballantine, cavolo nero, and a glass of wine, and later in the year –August 26- sample braised beef short ribs, spinach, and yet another glass of beautiful wine to compliment the flavours of your meal. For full details or bookings, head to http://rushcutters.com.au/ok-what-now
DRINKS
THE ROCKS AROMA FESTIVAL (SYDNEY)
For its seventeenth year in a row The Rocks Aroma Festival is returning. On Sunday July 27, this wonderful event once again graces Sydney with a program that is sure to impress anyone who cherishes a carefully roasted cup of coffee. Continuing to satisfy and delight the insatiable taste for quality coffee shared by Sydneysiders, the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority have extended the event this year to last for four weeks leading up to the Aroma Festival day. Workshops this year have been curated in association with Australasian Speciality Coffee Association (AASCA) and cover every facet of coffee adoration, from the Appreciation Course to Alternative Slow Brew Methods, Cupping 101 to Latte Art and the Science of Espresso. For the sweet tooths among us, there will also be the delectable ‘Chocolate – Bean to Bar’ workshop. These workshops are in addition to the myriad of other celebrations of the joyous beverage that is coffee. For more info, check out http://www.therocks.com/whats-on/aroma-festival.aspx
BALMAIN ORIGINAL BOCK (SYDNEY)
Balmain Brewing Company is reviving one of Sydney’s favourite local craft beers. They’re announcing the relaunch of the Balmain Original Bock in new packaging. After months of preparation, the iconic, handcrafted beer is now available nationally. Brewed over 30 years ago, the Balmain Original Bock was considered the flagship product at the Balmain Brewing Company with a fantastic popular, local following. Since closing the brewery site near White Bay at the end of the 1980’s, the beer brand lay dormant until three local mates decided to bring back the popular Balmain Brewing brand. Balmain Original Bock is a true to style German dark lager. This unique beer is brewed to be full and rich. There is a perfect mix of malt flavours, roast coffee and caramel on a clean spicy hop backbone which gives this classical beer great balance. Balmain Original Bock in a bottle is now available in all major liquor outlets throughout Australia and on tap in various pubs, bars, cafes and restaurants.
REKORDERLIG EMBRACES WINTER (THREDBO)
Rekorderlig Cider is embarking on an exciting winter campaign to prepare us for the chilly months ahead. The ‘Beautifully Swedish’ brand is re-launching their limited edition Winter Cider and heating up the Après experience in Thredbo with the Rekorderlig Hot Pools and afternoon chill sessions at the Thredbo Alpine Hotel during the ski season, starting on the June 6. During the 2014 winter ski season, Rekorderlig Cider will be hosting a variety of amazing parties at the Thredbo Alpine Hotel every Thursday, Friday and Saturday afternoon from 3pm- 6pm. Bean bags, deck chairs and fire pits will be positioned around the hotel courtyard with cosy blankets providing comfort and warmth for those eager to continue time spent outside. With the opportunity to sip on a glass of warm cider, whilst listening to live entertainment and reclining around a fire pit or taking an afternoon dip in the heated outdoor Rekorderlig Hot Pool, the scene is sure to rival the European après experience.
PRINT ROOM – BAR LAUNCH (SYDNEY)
Paddington gets a dose of old Hollywood charm with the launch of Print Room, a new cocktail and wine bar located in the heart of Paddington’s fashion strip, The Intersection. Located in a revamped heritage building at 11 Glenmore Rd, Print Room has undergone a complete refit by architects Alexander & Co. While a central barman pours highball cocktails to the sultry tones of Nina Simone, French Lycée (Munich) and Bac a l'aureat (Paris) trained Chef Misha Laurent (Bondi Trattoria, Brio on Bronte, The Blue Oyster, The Leura Garage) will cook up a storm in the kitchen. On the Print Room menu is a variety of bar nibbles, share plates, and antipasto and cheese boards, all designed to share with friends over drinks, including Leeroy’s signature Paddington Bear cocktail, a whiskey on the rocks or a good bottle of red.
G.H.MUMM PARTNERS WITH THREDBO TO PAINT THE TOWN RED (THREDBO)
As the Official Champagne of the Melbourne Cup Carnival, as well as a global partnership as the Official Champagne of Formula 1, G.H. MUMM will now add winter and skiing to its tradition of celebrating performance, achievement and victory. G.H.MUMM has a new partnership with Australian ski resort, Thredbo. The renowned champagne house will host events and experiences throughout the 12- week season, including being the official sponsor of the famous Top2Bottom ski race. At the Thredbo Alpine Hotel, i>G.H.MUMM will be the official champagne of the Lounge Bar. i>G.H.MUMM will present some of the best entertainment in the village every Thursday, Friday & Saturday night giving everyone the opportunity to stand on the podium, sabrage large formats of champagne and party.
WORLD GIN DAY AT THE CLOCK HOTEL (SYDNEY)
With a stellar selection of gins from all over the world, there’s no better place to celebrate World Gin Day than at The Clock Hotel in Surry Hills, with a weekend of generous gin specials from June 13 to 15. Enjoy some of the globe’s best gins such as The Botanist (Scotland), Gin Mare (Spain), Aviation (USA), Sip Smith (England) and West Winds ‘Sabre’ (Australia) along with the delicious Quina Fina tonic for just $9 each. Or if the cold is getting in to your bones, thaw out with the winter warming Hendrick’s Hot Gin Punch. These gin specials are available from the Balcony Bar at The Clock throughout the weekend.
THE GLENMORE DOES RYE JULY (SYDNEY)
Whisky or whiskey, scotch or rye? For anyone who has a love of this year’s hottest tipple, The Glenmore will be the place to celebrate it in all its glory with a number of exclusive masterclasses as part of the first ever Rye July. Throughout the month, a series of one-off, unique appreciation classes will take place on Thursday evenings at the Glenmore Lounge level, with something for every taste from whiskey exploring to a class learning to make pre-batched cocktails. The main events taking place during Rye July are:
Whiskey tasting & canapés - Thursday July 10, 6.30pm
Know the difference between a whiskey, a whisky and a rye? This interactive sensory session will showcase and explore a range of whiskeys and explain how to identify true rye characteristics, all paired with delicious canapés.
Make your own pre-batched cocktails - Thursday July 17, 6.30pm
Bottled cocktails?! It sounds simple, but learn how to pair, balance and create pre-batched cocktails using a wide array of flavours, spices, fruits and juices with, of course, whiskey. Canapés will be provided.
Classic cocktail masterclass - Thursday July 24, 6.30pm
Master the craft of classic whiskey cocktails while learning the tricks of the trade from the masters themselves. Learn about a range of eras and styles, so forget reading the books and get shaking! Canapés will be provided.
Limited tickets for each event are available at $30 per person. For further information or to book, email info@theglenmore.com.au or call 02 9247 4794.
FASHION & CULTURE
EDGE MODEL MANAGEMENT THIRD BIRTHDAY (SYDNEY)
To celebrate EDGE Model Management turning three, Patrón Tequila and Mr Pink ginseng drink are throwing a big birthday bash in their honour. The invite-only event is being held at the opulent Casablanca bar in Double Bay. With over 150 guests expected to attend, the cocktail party will host tastemakers from the north shore and eastern suburbs, models, celebrity talent and relevant media. While champagne and canapés will be flowing, an ice sculpture distributing shots will no doubt be the standout feature of the night. Edge Models, Patrón and Mr Pink are also joining forces to support charity organisiation, Batyr. Batyr aims to encourage the youths of today to speak out about mental health issues in a positive manner. This lavish event will be taking place on June 14, from 7pm onwards. Everyone will be in gorgeous cocktail attire to match the atmosphere of this beautiful celebration.
WORLD CUP FEVER AT THE STAR (SYDNEY)
The Star is turning up the heat in their Event Centre and showcasing all Australian matches, plus Semi Finals and the Final, live from Brazil. Providing the best venue in Sydney for fans to share all the guts and the glory of one of the world’s most watched sports. Which team will take home the coveted cup this year? Catch all the action live as it happens at The Star. Every game will be screened live at 24/7 Sports Bar as well. There’ll be two hours of fantastic pre-game entertainment, and plenty of food and drinks to fuel your football fever.
Also at The Star will be the Hyundai Fan Park, where you can watch all the action from Brazil live from the world-class Event Centre, complete with beautiful Brazilian dancers on hand to really bring the atmosphere straight to you. Fans will enjoy one of Sydney's biggest indoor hi-res screens, interactive competitions, games, and prizes including a Hyundai i40 and Veloster.
The Hyundai Fan Park will run from Saturday 14th June to Monday 14th July with free entry to the Events Centre screening the three Socceroos group games, two semis, and the Grand Final.
For more information visit www.worldcup.hyundai.com
WORLD CUP FEVER AT MLC CENTRE (SYDNEY)
To join in on the World Cup shenanigans, the MLC Centre will place two foosball tables in the centre of the birdcage. People are encouraged to come and compete to try and capture that feeling of kicking a score in what is one of the biggest sporting events in the world. The foosball tables will be up from June 12 to July 13 and are located at 19 Martin Place, Sydney.
WORLD CUP FEVER AT THE LÖWNBRÄU KELLER (SYDNEY)
The Löwenbräu Keller is a hub for Sydney-siders that love their German dripping with authenticity. For the first time ever, this widely popular restaurant will be screening the big games alongside the atmosphere, the food, and of course, the bier. If Germany is successful in the competition then the venue wll continue airing the rest of their games.
Tickets are $10 pre-paid and $20 on the door, screening the two big scheduled German games: Germany VS Portugal (16 June at 2am) and Germany VS USA (26 June at 2am). Doors will open at midnight, with last entry at 1:30am.
There will be a World Cup T-shirt stall in venue which will be giving away prizes during half time.
DESIGNCROWD REIMAGINE MC'DONALDS NEW MASCOT
McDonald’s recently announced its new mascot, ‘Happy’, to join Ronald, Grimace, the Hamburglar and Birdie. Happy is the new face of the fast food chains kids' meals. Happy looks anything but kid-friendly, and like many others, the DesignCrowd team thought the mascot was frightening enough to be in a horror film. That’s why they asked their army of over 180,000 designers to have some fun and recreate famous horror films, to feature the new McDonald’s mascot, Happy.
TRAVEL
CONTIKI – LATIN AMERICA
Imagine taking in the sunset at a remote lodge right in the heart of Peru’s Colca Canyon,or falling asleep in a jungle cabin in Costa Rica and waking up to the vibrant sound of a toucan as your alarm clock. From incredible wildlife, endless adventures, colourful cities and guaranteed good times, Latin America is unlike anywhere else in the world. It’s time to make every moment count – Latin America style! Now with 21 itineraries, Contiki’s Latin America program introduces Belize, Guatemala, and one of the world’s hottest travel spots – Colombia — as exciting new destinations for 2015.
From the gorgeous beaches of Brazil to the buzzing streets of Colombia, here are Contiki’s top five things to do in Latin America.
1. Dive the Great Blue Hole in Belize
The Great Blue Hole is without question one of the greatest natural wonders you will ever see. The submarine sinkhole has been enchanting divers for years with it’s enchanting stalactites, dripstone sheets and fascinating marine life. Dive into the turquoise waters and discover what lies below as you dive deep into the darkness.
2. Get your coffee hit in Colombia
Love coffee? You’re in for a treat! Colombia is home to some of the best coffee in the world and a trip to Armenia will take you right to the very heart and soul of the industry. Explore the lushious green countryside and coffee plantations as you learn about the journey of the bean, from seedling to coffee cup and everything in between.
3. Zipline through the rainforest canopy in Guatemala
If it’s an adrenalin rush you’re chasing, ziplining through the Tikal national park will tick all the right boxes. You’ll complete not 1, not 2, not 3, but 8 different ziplines, each taking you higher and higher into the rainforest canopy, providing you spectacular views of the Guatemalan rainforest.
4. Take a helicopter ride over Iguassu Falls
At the frontier of Argentina, Paraguay and Brazil lies a breathtaking collection of natural waterfalls and rainforest. Be mesmerised by thunderous water at the Devil’s throat and keep an eye out for some of Latin America’s beautiful wildlife including the majestic jaguar and sweet-toothed coatis! For the best view in the house, you can’t go past a helicopter ride. Only from a birds-eye-view can you really appreaciate the sheer enormity of this amazing natural wonder.
5. Catch football fever
If you can’t make it to the 2014 World Cup in June, rest easy knowing that Brazilians are fanatic about football all year round. The energy of the crowd is second to none. Watch the rival teams battle it out on the field at the Maracana in Rio de Janeiro, as their loyal fans cheer and chant to the beat of the drums.