Now’s the time to feel the wind in our hair and sand between our toes. Get set for beach season with a sun-shielding bucket hat or elevated cap sure to see you through the summer and beyond.
On a balmy afternoon when the sun is high, it doesn’t get much better than gathering some friends, packing some yummy food and heading to one of the best picnic spots in Auckland. Whether heading out and about with friends or that special someone, it’s time to pack up some delicious treats and refreshing drinks and head to one of these picturesque spots — they may just be the best in the city.
Location: 79/133 Wilson Road South, Warkworth
Darkly beautiful with its eroding buildings and lush green surrounds, New Zealand’s first cement manufacturing plant has become the pinnacle of off-piste picnicking since the late 1920s.
Location: Via Rosecamp Road Foreshore Reserve, Beach Haven
If it is a picturesque sunset meal you desire, this west-facing bay is the answer. A lack of signposts makes a hidden gem that the masses are unaware of, but the track — once found — is easily navigable and a breeze to walk.
Location: Muriwai
A beautiful hidden gem located south of Muriwai Beach, Maukatia Bay is the perfect spot to park up for a picnic. Remote, wild and undeniably beautiful, this bay is the ideal place to watch the sun go down, just make sure you have all the essentials on hand.
Location: 24 Omana Ave, Epsom
While Mount Eden is arguably one of Auckland’s most popular picnic destinations, those in the know skip the climb and head to the 5.5-acre, flower-filled garden at its base.
Location: Corner of Stanley Point Road and Second Avenue, Devonport
Set down a narrow accessway on a quiet suburban street, you’ll often find this Pohutukawa-sheltered beach completely deserted, making it an easy contender for one of the best picnic spots in Auckland.
Location: Point Chevalier
Coyle Park, nestled in Point Chevalier, is a perfect picnic destination for families. With sweeping grassy areas, playgrounds, and breathtaking views of the Waitematā Harbour, it offers a serene coastal escape. After picnicking, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the scenic coastal walkway or explore the playgrounds.
Location: Corner of Beaumont Street and Jellicoe Street, Wynyard Quarter
Silo Park, overlooking the Waitematā Harbour, combines urban charm with waterfront serenity, making it an ideal picnic spot. Featuring grassy areas, picnic tables, and seasonal open-air cinema, it offers a vibrant atmosphere and stunning cityscape views for families to enjoy Auckland’s bustling waterfront.
Location: Te Henga / Bethells Beach
Lake Wainamu, near Bethells Beach, is a tranquil spot surrounded by towering sand dunes and lush native bush. Enjoy a lakeside meal before exploring the dunes, where adventurous families can try sandboarding for an exhilarating experience amidst the serene beauty of this hidden gem.
Location: Park Road, Parnell
Auckland Domain, near the city center, is a historic park perfect for family picnics. Enjoy lush surroundings, charming rose gardens, and serene duck ponds. After your meal, stroll along picturesque pathways or visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum to explore its captivating exhibits.
The fact that Auckland is known as the City of Sails is a testament to our widespread enthusiasm for boating, particularly over the summer season. After all, when so many boats are moored just a hop-skip-and-jump from the central city and with access to the sparkling waters of the Hauraki Gulf mere minutes away, it makes sense that boating is a favourite pastime for many who call Auckland home. But, for every languid, leisurely day spent on the water comes the need for some serious maintenance behind the scenes, whether that be packing supplies or keeping one’s vessel adequately clean. We therefore present a product no boat owner should go without — Ecostore’s dedicated Boat Wash.
Made to remove salt and grime from a range of surfaces, including fibreglass, vinyl, plastic, metal, wood, rubber and glass, Ecostore’s Boat Wash is a seafaring essential. Formulated with all-natural ingredients, it is gentle on precious marine environments and any sensitive skin it comes into contact with.
Ecostore’s new addition has been used as the boat wash of choice for some of the world’s most prestigious superyachts, like the 69-metre Feadship Samaya and the world’s largest aluminium sail ship, Sea Eagle II — a reliable solution to marine maintenance that doesn’t let its low-impact footprint get in the way of some of the most impressive results we’ve ever seen.
The biodegradable formula is available in Ecostore’s signature packaging, which is sustainable and refillable. The concentrated boat wash is economical to use and space-efficient to store, too, with five litres of concentrate able to make 200 litres of solution — more than enough for the summer days ahead.
A designer hold-all tote bag that fits all your summer essentials is a summer essential in itself, and is a sure-fire way to elevate any beach ensemble. From raffia and leather to crochet and canvas, this season, there’s plenty to choose from on the tote front — perfect for a last-minute request from Santa.
There’s nothing quite like a hit of fresh air and immersing yourself in nature to boost your mood, and taking your furry friend along for the ride makes the ritual all the more enjoyable. Auckland has no shortage of walks and hikes that are easy enough for you and your dog to enjoy together — a number of which we’ve rounded up below.
Duration: 1.4km / 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
Dog: On leash
A dramatic trail that weaves its way around some of Auckland’s highest sea cliffs in Piha, the views from Mercer Bay track are exceptional. A brilliant way to tire the dog out while enjoying some indulgent aesthetics, be careful on this one after a downpour as it can get slippery.
Duration: Up to you
Difficulty: Easy
Dog: Off leash
If your canine had a choice on how to spend its days, we’re relatively sure that bolting about at this Point Chevalier dog park would be it. A fenced area in the centre of Meola Reserve, this is true puppy paradise. A fun one for the whole family, just be careful if you’re taking wee ones along as the dogs can get a tad over-excited and aren’t always known for looking where they’re going.
Duration: Up to you
Difficulty: Easy with some steep sections
Dog: Off leash areas
Though most people tend to head out West when they feel like a weekend wander, there is no shortage of outdoor adventures to be had elsewhere. Southbound, Māngere’s Mountain Path (Te Pane o Mataoho / Te Ara Pueru) is one of our top picks. With paths leading around the volcano’s crater and right up to the rim where stretching views of the Manukau Harbour await, it’s a fresh place for you and Fido to explore.
Duration: 10km / 4 hours but you can do smaller sections
Difficulty: Easy-moderate
Dog: Off leash areas
A versatile outing, the sprawling Waikōwhai Walkway offers bush trails, beachfront, off leash areas and more. With an extensive map that covers the entire area and the different trails available for download here, Hillsborough’s coastal walkway is an adventure for all.
Duration: 5km / About an hour
Difficulty: Easy
Dog: Off leash areas
With a well-maintained trail taking care of your exercise for the day and off-leash areas to give the dog a decent run, Albany’s native-addled Unsworth Reserve provides an excellent day out.
Given that the beach is one of the few places where it’s acceptable to show up in various states of undress and there aren’t many set rules for beachgoers, there is (in our opinion anyway) a certain standard of behaviour that all of us should adhere to when hitting the seaside this summer.
Much like McDonald’s, the beach really is the domain of children. Cast your mind back to your childhood days: there was nothing more exciting than a day at the beach. So show some respect for little Fred and Mary’s day-long civil engineering feat of constructing a small empire (complete with moat) and watch your step. Your haphazard wandering could otherwise extinguish the architectural hopes and dreams of future generations. Likewise, it is never a good idea to outdo the little ones’ construction efforts by developing a larger, more impressive sand castle directly alongside their juvenile attempt. Do the kids a favour and instead, offer to become the one they bury in the sand – preferably at the low tide mark.
While the beach has long been the natural backdrop for many a great romance, there’s nothing quite as stomach-churning as having to witness an overly frisky couple frolicking, limbs akimbo in the middle of the beach. We’re not about to begrudge a few passionate moments, but anyone displaying moves more suited to an R18 movie should be promptly thrown into the surf to dampen their inappropriate ardour. ‘Sex On The Beach’ is a cocktail, not an invite. Let’s keep it that way, shall we?
Ah, the long-debated topless topic. Should you take your beach attire cues from the Europeans and free your nipple on the beach? Perhaps. But do keep in mind a couple of considerations: a particularly buxom bosom might be best kept within the confines of a bikini top, and we would suggest you show some decorum if there are children in the vicinity. That said, please save the full-blown nudity for beaches that are dedicated to it.
There is nothing quite as annoying as the inconsiderate towel flick. So next time you’re emerging from the ocean while trying to retain your sexy James Bond composure – don’t lunge at your towel and fling it about your body with nary a thought for anyone else in the area. As we all know, towels hold an extraordinary amount of sand when lifted quickly from the beach, and your inconsiderate gesture will shower everyone within a 100-metre radius in clingy particles. Do the polite thing: either dry yourself with unbridled enthusiasm in an isolated area or carefully lift your towel and take it away from everyone else to shake it clean.
Thou shalt respect the man in yellow who waves his hands and blows his whistle. He may seem like he’s overreacting, but it’s more likely that your rather amateurish attempt at body surfing is causing widespread concern amongst the lifeguard fraternity. While you’ve been blissfully unaware of your actions, they have noted your rapid descent to the far reaches of the large swell, thanks to the almighty rip in which you’ve been floundering. Do everyone a favour and heed the lifeguard’s advice, and best do it quickly or your fantasy of locking lips with a buff lifeguard may become more of a lifesaving mouth-to-mouth reality.
Man’s best friend or unsuspecting beachgoer’s worst nightmare? Canines have been a long-debated addition to beach life, and while many public spots have strict bans on dogs, there are still some more remote spots where Fido is as welcome as the rest of us. Although we can all see the entertainment in an over-enthusiastic dog flailing about in the waves while trying to fetch a large piece of driftwood, what’s not so enjoyable is the realisation that you’ve placed your towel atop a pile of sun-crusted dog turd. Often mistaken for a large section of dried sand, said turd will, upon impact with your tush, ooze through the towel and adhere to your newly prized Gucci one-piece. So if you’re bringing your canine companion to the beach, for god’s sake do the right thing and pick up after them.
The beach is one of the few places where we’re happy to compromise our personal space in order to secure a prime waterfront position. What we must not forget, however, is that the beach has the uncanny ability to amplify every whisper into a shout. So please think twice before loudly giving your beach companion an X-rated, blow-by-blow account of your recent sexual escapades. Similarly, if you are one of those people who brings music to the beach, at least play something that most of us are likely to enjoy listening to. Waking up from a tranquil beach nap to David Guetta’s greatest hits played on a tiny, tinny speaker will never not be annoying.
The sheer act of lighting up a stinking hot cancer stick in the middle of a beach on a steamy day is quite frankly a phenomenon that we will never understand. But for those of you who are partial, let us remind you that the rest of us are here to escape the toxic city fumes, not to have you kill us slowly with your secondhand badness. We suggest you do everyone a favour and light up somewhere private while we fill our lungs with fresh, salty sea air.
From the restorative power of the ocean to the immune-boosting properties of sunshine, summer is the season of radiance and joy for a reason. Here, we look at why we feel so good when the sun is shining.
Life is full of many great pleasures, but nothing quite compares to the specific joy the summer months bring. From devouring a good book outdoors to spending time bobbing on a boat, to tucking into fish & chips at the beach, or the first cool ocean dip of the season — summer is filled with moments that soothe the soul. But, there’s more to those serotonin spikes than meets the eye. Both the sun (and the vitamin D we absorb from its rays), and the ocean (dubbed vitamin sea for a reason) boast myriad benefits, bolstering both our physical and mental health in unprecedented ways.
The benefits we reap from vitamin D are vast. And, while we know diligent sun protection is vital when it comes to catching rays (particularly in our corner of the world), the vitamin D produced in our skin after being exposed to the sun has been proven to offer astounding health benefits. Colloquially called ‘the sunshine vitamin’, vitamin D is essential for maintaining overall health — both physical and mental.
Crucial for bones (adequate levels can prevent conditions like osteoporosis), immunity — with vitamin D playing a significant role in boosting our immune system and even proven to prevent colds and flus, bolstering heart health, improving fertility, and more, with exposure also linked to reducing the risk of many cancers, ultimately, vitamin D supercharges our health on unprecedented levels, and is essential for longevity.
And, beyond physical health, research also suggests that vitamin D can contribute to better mental wellbeing, reducing the risk of depression and mood disorders. We all know anecdotally how much better we feel when getting regular sunshine across the warmer months (Seasonal Affective Disorder is no joke), but there’s real science behind it. The skin makes beta-endorphins when exposed to the sun, which gives you a similar rush to that experienced post-workout.
The allure of the ocean is omnipresent for many of us, and, come summer, it’s to the vastness of the sea that we turn. Be it for reprieve from the heat, moments of calm, entertainment, or simply pleasure, the sea is the central axis from which our summer plans revolve. But, its appeal goes beyond pleasure alone. It’s no secret that there are myriad benefits to connecting with nature, and science has uncovered how much can be gained from time spent in green spaces, but the perks of the ocean are lesser-known.
Without delving too deeply into the science of it all, ‘ocean air’ (much more than a whiff of salt) is known to increase the flow of oxygen around the body, boosting serotonin levels in the process. Moreover, floating in mineral-rich sea water is not only great for your skin and detoxifying for your body, but can reduce stress to meditative levels. This state of relaxation is heightened by the sounds and sights of the ocean, which have been scientifically linked to a relaxed mindstate.
As these benefits become more widely recognised, a healthy dose of vitamin sea is now even being prescribed as part of therapy treatments. And the wellness and beauty industries are fast jumping on the bandwagon, too, imbuing products with marine extracts — from algae to seaweed, capitalising on each element’s specific attributes.
The holidays offer up the best opportunity to tick all the books off our list that we didn’t quite get to in 2024. Whether you plan on hitting the beach or curling up in a shady spot, these are some of the best books to have on hand this summer, from poignant memoirs to thought-provoking novels and everything in between.
by Naoise Dolan
A sharp, witty exploration of modern relationships. As Celine and Luke plan their wedding, their friends grapple with love, jealousy, and life’s expectations. The Happy Couple is full of biting humour and keen observations, as Dolan examines whether happiness truly lies at the end of the aisle, or if the journey there reveals
deeper truths.
by Ali Smith
Ali Smith’s Gliff explores a near-future dystopia where two children confront a world of shifting boundaries. A mysterious red line around their home and a horse symbolise resistance in a fractured society, as, with Smith’s unique insight into human complexity, Gliff sets the stage for its upcoming counterpart — Glyph. A powerful, thought-provoking read.
by Toshikazu Kawaguchi
In the fifth instalment of the Before the Coffee Gets Cold series, four new visitors enter the time-travelling café, each seeking closure from their past. Masterfully woven, Kawaguchi’s heartwarming tale explores love, regret, and healing, offering a tender reflection on moving forward despite life’s missed moments.
by Richard Powers
Richard Powers’ latest novel intertwines the lives of four individuals who converge on a remote island in French Polynesia. As an audacious plan to build floating cities unfolds, Powers weaves a rich tapestry of environmental themes, human connection, and the complexities of tech, set against the majestic backdrop of the Pacific.
by Ella Baxter
Through nuanced dialogue and keen observation, Ella Baxter’s surreal, pyrotechnic novel Woo Woo takes an unsettling dive into the mind of Sabine, a conceptual artist facing both a career-defining exhibition and a menacing stalker. With dark humour, sharp wit, and visceral intensity, Woo Woo captures the chaos of creativity and the madness of modern life.
by Haruki Murakami
As a young man embarks on a journey to find his vanished girlfriend, he’s led to a mysterious dream library. As reality and fantasy blur, he faces profound questions about love, memory, and loss. Haruki Murakami’s long-awaited novel is parable for these strange times — brimming with magical realism, and offering an ode to escapism.
by Bella Mackie
Secrets unravel and tensions mount in this darkly comedic novel, as the murder of a wealthy patriarch sends his dysfunctional family into a frenzy over his vast fortune. With each sibling under suspicion, this wickedly sharp tale blends murder, greed, and high-stakes family drama, offering a biting commentary on privilege, morality, and the complexity of family.
by Becky Manawatu
The much-awaited follow-up to the award-winning international bestseller Auē, Kataraina follows Kat and her whānau as they recount her childhood and trauma, rooted in ancestral ties and a tragic past. Unflinchingly exploring the destructive ways people love and the connection to whenua, Manawatu’ssecond novel solidifies her powerful voice and astute observational prowess.
by Cher
In Cher, The Memoir, Part One, the iconic artist and actor shares her life story with candidness and humour. From her turbulent childhood to her rise as a global superstar, Cher reflects on her complicated relationship with Sonny Bono and her trailblazing career. This first instalment reveals the woman behind the fame, in a life too immense for a single book.
by Stanley Tucci
Stanley Tucci’s What I Ate in One Year is a delightful memoir chronicling a year of meals, blending food with poignant reflections on life, family, and loss. From memorable dishes shared with loved ones to quiet meals alone, Tucci’s diary captures the emotional richness food brings to his evolving life.
by Olivia Laing
Exploring the concept of paradise through gardens, The Garden Against Time blends personal memoir with historical and cultural reportage. As Laing restores a walled garden in Suffolk, she examines gardens as symbols of privilege, resistance, and community, as her beautifully woven narrative connects real and imagined Edens.
by Hannah Crosbie
Often referred to as the ‘Nigella of wine’, Hannah Crosbie’s informed yet tongue-in-cheek approach creates a relaxed and refreshing space to learn about the often-esoteric world of wine. Her first book is an informal guide to wine — a go-to guide that matches wine with life’s important (and unimportant) events.
by Lili Anolik
Joan Didion is revealed at last in this outrageously provocative and profoundly moving new work “that reads like a propulsive novel” (Oprah Daily) on the mutual attractions—and mutual antagonisms—of Didion and her fellow literary titan, Eve Babitz.
by Nigel Slater
From an award-winning writer comes a beautifully-crafted collection of notes, memoir, and small moments of joy. Extracted from his notebooks of curiosities and wonderings, Slater captures life’s small, often overlooked everyday pleasures with warmth, humour, and tenderness in an exquisite anthology.
An afterthought for too long, the skin below the neckline is finally getting the attention it deserves. Here, we round up the best practices, treatments, and products to transform your skin — giving you the confidence to bare it all this summer.
From body sculpting and contouring to increased circulation, reducing fluid retention, strengthening immunity, supporting detoxification, and even enhancing nutrient absorption and bolstering overall health, the benefits of lymphatic massage are vast.
Simple and effective, dry brushing — an ancient Ayurvedic practice from India within which a natural bristle brush is used to gently massage the skin, stimulates the lymphatic system, increases circulation, and gently exfoliates — removing toxins, increasing energy, and reducing cellulite.
From Lanreé’s Thermage®️FLX system, which uses radiofrequency therapy to help smooth, tighten, and contour skin, to Body Catalyst’s revolutionary HIFU body contouring treatment, to the RSL Sculpting Beautylizer, there are a number of non-invasive, efficacious skin sculpting treatments with results that speak for themselves.
Designed to help visibly tone, tighten and firm the skin, there are myriad bespoke formulations that actually work — from Nécessaire’s The Body Serum to Sisley Paris’ Le Sculpteur.
Whether you lean towards accessories that are classic, adventurous or typically trend-driven, there is a raft of new sunglasses for women and men to suit any style or taste. Because whatever you may think about the unusually rainy start to summer we’re having, a pair of reliable sunglasses is absolutely essential for any sleek, seasonal look — and will be your best friend when the sun does finally decide to show up.
Auckland’s vibrant and bustling waterfront precinct, Viaduct Harbour, sits at the heart of our urban landscape, and has long-been the city’s go-to destination for celebrations and unforgettable experiences. Known for its energy and easy water access, this lively locale is where Aucklanders go to connect, thanks to the endless ways to fill a day. From waterfront dining to sunset cocktails, Viaduct Harbour is a haven for foodies and those looking to toast life’s special moments. For adventure seekers, the marina is your gateway to the Waitematā, offering chartered voyages and spectacular sailing experiences. And, for those seeking rest and relaxation, a luxurious staycation at the QT, Sofitel, or Park Hyatt awaits. At Viaduct Harbour, every visit is unforgettable — here is just one way to spend a day at the place where it all happens.
For an elevated stay in the heart of Auckland, Park Hyatt redefines luxury with exquisitely appointed rooms and sweeping views across the Waitematā. With four dining venues, a serene spa, infinity pool, and exclusive fitness amenities, all within a refined sanctuary, here, the welcoming hospitality the Viaduct Harbour is known for comes to life.
Start your day on a high note at Sean Connolly’s Esther — a vibrant Mediterranean-inspired eatery within Viaduct Harbour’s QT Hotel. With its stunning new al fresco dining space reminiscent of a Spanish seaside retreat and European-style brunches spanning the healthy and wholesome to the substantial and satisfying, there’s no better spot to kick off the day.
Beyond its culinary and maritime appeal, Viaduct Harbour’s art scene enriches its landscape with captivating works worth viewing. From Jeppe Hein’s Long Modified Bench to Graham Tipene and LandLAB’s Te Mata Topaki lookout to Phil Price’s Cytoplasm sculpture — each exemplifies the artistic innovation that defines this culturally rich precinct.
With Waitematā Harbour and the Hauraki Gulf on the doorstep, charter a boat from the bustling marina for a day of adventure — from scenic cruises to thrilling sailing, or simply island hoping and swimming. For a tailored experience, Rua Moana luxury charter promises an unforgettable day on the water.
Bivacco’s incredible corner site with ample outdoor seating is the perfect place to perch for a leisurely lunch, afternoon aperitivo, dinner, or nightcap. Brimming with action that’s sure to conjure up the convivial spirit whatever the occasion, Bivacco is a Viaduct Harbour
scene stealer.
Central to Viaduct Harbour’s allure is its thriving dining scene, and the jewel in the gastronomic crown is Soul Bar & Bistro. Here, the vibe is always lively, the food ever-changing and always tasty, and the cocktails among some of the best in the city — all best enjoyed on the sprawling, sun-soaked, floral festooned terrace.
Keeping an eye on the time while engaging in ocean-bound pursuits is made all the more stylish with these fashionably functional timekeepers.
As one of Australia’s most revered editorial hair stylists and co-owner and director of lauded Sydney-based hair salon Willomina, Chris Hunter is well versed in the art of using hair styling tools to achieve the most effortlessly glamorous of looks. For this issue’s cover shoot with Maddison Brown, Hunter opted for two contrasting but equally stunning looks — styled using Shark’s range of powerful and versatile hair tools. Here, he talks us through the easy recreation of Maddison’s effortless textured bun using Shark’s styling tools at home.
“Taking Maddison’s hair from a casual, daytime look to a chic, evening-ready style, I started by perfecting her 70s-inspired curtain bangs. Using the Shark SmoothStyle Heated Comb & Blow Dryer Brush, I polished each strand for a soft, voluminous shape, bringing out that retro feel with a modern twist. For the remaining lengths, I worked in Eleven Australia’s I Want Body Powder, enhancing volume and adding flexible hold to give the hair an effortless lift. I then sectioned large pieces, loosely pinning them to create an elegant, undone texture. The result is a stunning blend of vintage glamour and contemporary edge, ready to take her from day to night with timeless style.”
Soak up the sun in style this summer with our edit of the season’s most covetable swimwear. From one-pieces in an array of styles and fits to stand-out sets and, of course, the best swim shorts for the boys, shop our edit to be best-dressed on the beach this summer season.
Cartier’s LOVE Bracelet has been an icon of jewellery design since its creation in New York in 1969, renowned for its pure lines, precise proportions, oval shape, and signature screw details. Now available in three sizes — small, classic, and the newly introduced medium, each model is a timeless statement, wearable alone or stacked in layers.
Responding to modern desires for ease and independence, Cartier has updated all sizes with a functional screw and hinge, making this enduring symbol of love more versatile than ever.
Many don’t realise that the skin’s protective barrier is slightly acidic, and products with too much acid or alkaline can strip our skin’s natural oils, increasing the likelihood of inflammation and irritation.
Products that have the same pH value as healthy skin are far more effective in keeping it balanced and hydrated, which is where Ecostore’s efficacious range comes in. Designed with a pH of 5.0, and infused with locally-grown harakeke extract, these natural, eco-conscious products nurture the skin from the outside in.
www.ecostore.co.nz
Sydney has long been recognised as one of the culinary capitals of the world, and for good reason. With an ever-growing list of world-class dining destinations, we round up the best new openings to explore in the Harbour City.
Martin Place
The hospitality legends behind Shell House and the Dolphin are redefining Sydney’s dining scene with an ambitious new city precinct, The International. The multi-level masterpiece is housed in the iconic Harry Seidler-designed MLC Centre.
The lively locale promises three distinct experiences, all under one roof: The Wine Bar, a haven for small plates with an extensive wine list. The Grill, a grand homage to wood-fired cuisine and helmed by the celebrated Joel Bickford. And the icing on the cake, the Panorama Bar — an impressive and expansive rooftop with sweeping city views, perfect for all-day bites right through to late-night revelry.
Double Bay
Legendary chef Neil Perry has furthered his culinary dominance of Double Bay with Song Bird, an impressive, multi-level ode to classic Cantonese cuisine. Expect an expansive menu of over 70 dishes showcasing the finest Australian produce. Dive into plump scallop spring rolls bathed in sweet black vinegar sauce, or savour the iconic Peking duck with all of the trimmings.
The heritage-listed Garden House plays a starring role, expertly transformed by ACME and Caon Design Office. The space seamlessly blends the building’s original elegance with the vibrancy of Asia where marble and granite meet delicate green and gold accents, creating a rich yet minimalist haven.
Martin Place
A sultry new Latin American haven from acclaimed chef Alejandro Saravia, whose pedigree includes time at Heston Blumenthal’s Fat Duck, Morena, meaning brunette in Spanish, embodies Saravia’s vision of a welcoming, chic dining destination.
Housed in the historic GPO building, Morena transcends borders. Expect a symphony of flavours celebrating Peru — Saravia’s homeland, alongside vibrant dishes representing the entire region. From Mexico’s aguachile to prawn-centric Colombian versions, each country offers a unique twist.
But Morena is more than just food. The 220-seater boasts a Milanese vibe — think double-height ceilings, polished wood, and arched windows showcasing the city’s pulse. The energy is infectious, and perfect for lingering over drinks or a celebratory meal.
Paddington
Back in 2016, Sydney restaurant Saint Peter redefined sustainability and revolutionised seafood. Josh Niland’s ‘scale-to-tail’ philosophy wasn’t a fad; it became a global conversation starter.
Now, after much anticipation, Saint Peter has found a stunning new home: the iconic Grand National Hotel in Paddington. The cool, concrete haven boasts distinct experiences, where you can kick back in the bar with an à la carte menu, perfect for nostalgic seafood cravings. But the heart of Saint Peter lies in the main restaurant, where you can watch the chefs orchestrate culinary magic in the open kitchen. Towering ironbark fuels the wood-fired grill, while kelp hangs like a maritime curtain. Or catch a front-row seat at the semi-circular chef’s table for a tasting adventure.
From aged John Dory livers to 41-day-old Albacore, Saint Peter continues to push boundaries. It’s more than a restaurant; it’s a Sydney institution.
Pitt Street
This new CBD hotspot playfully reimagines French cuisine with a distinctly Aussie flair. Housed in a stunning heritage building opposite the Capitol Theatre, Ennui lures you in with its French pedigree. But the menu takes a sharp turn, using classic techniques and ingredients as a springboard for something more unique.
Co-owner Samuel Woods’ Thai heritage shines through and the star of the show might just be the ‘Duck Ennui’ — a masterful fusion of Peking duck and duck à l’orange, a tasty testament to years of experimentation. Ennui is a delightful paradox of French techniques with a healthy dose of Aussie spirit, sprinkled with Thai, Japanese, and Chinese influences.
Newton
Forget the usual Tex-Mex suspects. Newtown’s newest resident, Comedor, isn’t your average taco joint. This sleek, modern spot presents a refined take on Mexican cuisine, as Chef Alejandro Huerta’s world-class expertise shines through. Techniques honed at Copenhagen’s Noma and Mexico City’s Pujol are seamlessly blended with his Mexican heritage.
Across a series of shareable plates, you’ll find a symphony of flavours and textures. Think kingfish tostadas with nduja, pineapple, and spring onion, or scallops bathed in a corn miso vinaigrette with wattleseed, Comedor is a breath of fresh air for Sydney’s Mexican scene. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you to a world of innovative flavours and heritage-inspired comfort.
With the long-awaited summer settling in, it’s time to start finessing our outdoor spaces to prepare them for plenty of use over the coming months. Of course, one place we always turn to in our pursuit of perfect furnishings is ECC, where the selection of outdoor accoutrements and furniture is vast and varied.
Here, in a bid to help you to curate a cosy and convivial outdoor setting, we’ve rounded up a selection of our favourite pieces from ECC to shop now for the season ahead.
From humble beginnings in small-town Australia to the giddy heights of global runway shows to taking advice from Nicole Kidman, and a starring role in Netflix’s Dynasty, Maddison Brown’s journey has been nothing short of a whirlwind. But now, the actress and model is stepping back from Hollywood’s spotlight to focus on growing her sunscreen and skincare brand, Outside Beauty & Skincare — a venture that represents her most personal challenge yet. In this next chapter, she’s prioritising fulfilment over fame, embracing change with refreshing candour.
With a lively personality and refreshing sense of self, coupled with a professionalism brought about through years of being on set, Brown brought a unique dynamism to our Summer Issue cover story, bringing to life into the stunning jewels and clothes she wore for the shoot.
Here, taking sartorial notes from the multi-hyphenate creative, we have curated a ‘shop the look’ line-up of pieces to introduce a hint of 70s glamour to your wardrobe.
As the sun lingers longer and summer settles in, we’re wholly embracing the joy of cooking and dining al fresco. From smoky aromas wafting through the garden to the convivial clink of glasses, a meal outdoors transforms an ordinary evening into something truly special. And now, the Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven elevates this ritual to new heights with its innovative blend of ease, versatility, and the irresistible flavours unlocked via this clever appliance.
Reimagining an outdoor kitchen, this 8-in-1 marvel brings culinary finesse to the great outdoors, harnessing cutting-edge technology to offer a compact yet incredibly effective way to turn out expertly cooked fare. Whether you’re crafting Neapolitan-inspired pizzas with blistered crusts in three minutes flat, slow-smoking tender barbecue classics, or roasting a festive ham to perfection, this oven offers temperatures from 25°C to a searing 370°C, ensuring every dish is cooked to perfection.
Its integrated smoke box infuses authentic woodfire flavours with only half a cup of pellets, delivering that sought-after charred and caramelised taste effortlessly. With no flames to manage and a weather-resistant design, it’s as practical as it is sleek and compact. Transform any meal into a feast with brick-oven textures, smoky depth, and a touch of charred perfection — all from your own backyard, as the Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Oven invites you to savour the season.
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