Bondi

SOCIAL SPY** The Bucket List Local Produce Dinner

What better way to support our local farmers than by using local produce in our community? Well that’s exactly what The Bucket List’s Head Chef Tom Walton plans on doing.

Bondi’s popular beach-front restaurant is putting on a succession of meals using organic food as part of the Local Produce Dinner series.

“Through the dinner series we are giving guests a feast using the freshest local and seasonal produce and preparing it simply,” Tom says.

“We want to raise the awareness of the great farmers and producers we have right here on our doorstep.”

The dinners are hosted in conjunction with Food Orbit, and founder James Nathan wants to develop a bigger relationship between wholesale buyers, such as chefs and restaurateurs, to trade with local farmers, so that real food can be brought to food lovers.

“We’re giving farmers and producers an online presence and a platform to connect, build relationships and trade online with the growing number of chefs and wholesale buyer wanting their produce,” James says.

“In putting these dinners on with Tom, it’s great to get to work with a chef who shares our passion to showcase exactly that.”

Guests had the opportunity to sample goods from brewers, wineries, farmers and producers in and around Sydney, The Hawkesbury River, Southern Highlands, Leppington, Newtown and even as close as Bondi Beach – talk about eating from your doorstep!

Each dinner has a different free range meat, starting with the Free Range Lamb, but that wasn’t the only food on offer. There were a host of starters including organic mushrooms, crisp herb polenta and roast carrots.

Attendees gulped back wine from Newtown Brewery, Young Henrys, as well as a delicious sipping on a delicious 2006 Crossroads Riesling and 2008 Pinot Noir, provided by Terini Wines.

Upcoming dinners in the series include:

Free range beef – Wednesday June 5

Free range pig on a spit – Thursday July 11

Organic Free Range Chicken and Venison – Thursday July 25

Local Sustainable Seafood – August 8

Don’t miss out on trying some of the finest food that Sydney has to offer – check outhttp://thebucketlistbondi.com

Jennifer Fletcher attended the event on behalf of Sydney Social 101.

*Prices start from $80 per head inclusive of all wine, beer and sparkling water.

What’s On: ANZAC DAY 2013

So we’re excited that ANZAC Day is almost upon us, a day where we can remember our loved ones, neighbours and friends that have given their lives to protecting our country.

In keeping with tradition, ANZAC Day marks the one day of the year where gambling games are legal in all pubs and clubs in Australia – notably 2-Up!

We are also very lucky to get a day off work! Here is our guide to the best spots across Sydney to celebrate ANZAC Day.

The Australian

The Australian at The Rocks will be sharing the ANZAC spirit on the city’s largest and most exciting 2-Up Arena.
Date: Thursday, April 25
Time: Open from 8.00am and 2-Up from midday-late
Address: 100 Cumberland Street, The Rocks
For further information: http://www.australianheritagehotel.com

The Glenmore

Salute and commemorate our courageous Diggers with a cold beer and Aussie BBQ. Play 2-Up from midday on the hugely popular outdoor arena.
Date: Thursday, April 25
Time: Open from 8.00am and 2-Up from midday-late
Address: 96 Cumberland Street, The Rocks
For further information: http://www.theglenmore.com.au

KIT Wednesdays is upping the ante with a combined celebration for ANZAC Day Eve
· DCUP
· Steve Frank
· Zannon
· Alex Preston

Bungalow 8 |3 Lime St, Sydney
When: ANZAC Day- Thursday 25th April
Time : From 11am
· Massive 2UP arena
· Celebrity tossers
· Aussie tunes
· Bagpipe band
· The Last Post (played at 5:45pm sharp)
· $15 cocktail jugs served till 4pm

Cargo Bar |52-60 The Promenade, Sydney
When: ANZAC Day- Thursday 25th April
Time: From 11am
· All day BBQ and outdoor bar
· Biggest 2UP arena to date
· Playing the Last Post (5:30pm sharp)
· The party will continue into the night with some classic Aussie tunes from DJ’s KATO, Liz Bird, Adam Bozzetto and loads more

Newtown Hotel | 174 King St, Newtown
When: ANZAC Day- Thursday 25th April
Time: From 1 pm
· 2UP
· Fosters cans $5
· Free sausage sizzle
· DJs from sunset, PHDJ, Shantan Wantan Ichiban, Meem

Sugarmill Hotel | 37 Darlinghurst Rd, Potts Point
When: ANZAC Day- Thursday 25th April
Time: From 10am
· 2:30pm AFL live Essendon vs Collingwood
· 4:00pm NRL live Roosters vs Dragons
· 7:00pm NRL live Storm vs Warriors

Sweethearts Rooftop BBQ |37 Darlinghurst Rd, Potts Point
When: ANZAC Day- Thursday 25th April
Time: From 10am
· Sweethearts will be open ALL ANZAC DAY from midday to midnight.
· TAPPY HOUR from 4-7pm when all tap beer and wine is $5

Some other key places that are fab for ANZAC are:

Dicks – Balmain

The Beach Road Hotel – Bondi

Coogee Bay Hotel – Coogee

The Royal – Paddington

Have fun!!!!

Social Spy** SALT retreat launch -Bondi

Last week saw a gathering of more than 60 of Australia’s most famous faces for the launch of luxury Bali-based health resort, SALT Retreats at Pete Evan’s Bondi store.

Guests were led down a green carpet to stand in front of a media wall constructed with live plants. They then moved into the depths of the store, where they were served an organic Balinese-inspired menu of smoked trout and coconut sambal on cucumber, tempeh with green beans and chilli relish, spiced chicken skewers, carob treats and blueberry and coconut popsicles.

Hollywood Boulevard was recreated with celebrity hand prints in specially created SALT Retreats sand pits.

To keep energy levels high, the celebrities were given a range of non-alcoholic drinking options, from fresh young coconuts to green juice shots.

Entertainment was by Triple J Unearthed finalists, Merpire and at the end of the night, lucky attendee – Deborah Hutton won an all-expenses paid trip to experience SALT Retreats, Seminyak first-hand.

Social Spy** *Bondi Hardware Turns One Year Old!*

One of Sydney Social’s favourite haunts is Bondi Hardware! It was the perfect evening as Bondi’s bustling Hall Street was host to Bondi Hardware’s first Birthday celebrations!

Hall Street is home to local favourite Bondi Hardware bar and restaurant which is named after its original occupant of 30 years, a cluttered Hardware store. The restaurant pays homage to its heritage, with the interior painstakingly transformed utilising exposed brickwork, beams, high gabled ceilings and recycled timber. Last night Bondi Hardware turned one year old and to celebrate the owners, Hamish Watts & Ben Carroll threw a huge invite only bash for locals, media and celebrities.

Cocktails on arrival included Hardware Fizz and Raspberry Mules, then guests moved onto Vale Ale, Batlow Cider, wine and champagne. To soak up all the booze food served included the ever popular beef, pork and chicken sliders, lamb koftas and pizza, and the party went on late into the night with the DJ pumping out soul and funk tunes.

Celebrities who attended included SYP (PSY impersonator), Hayley Jenson (Australian Idol), Joel Chapman & Kosta Theodosis (Amy Meredith), Nacho Pop (TV Personality and dancer), Penne Dennison (TV Presenter), Sophia Hope (X Factor contestant), Tali Jatali (TV Personality), Tom Steinfort (TV Presenter) and Zoe Sheridan

The expertise of Ben & Hamish is evident at Bondi’s craftiest bar and restaurant, where the welcoming ambiance, mouth-watering food and delicious beverages combine to create a uniquely Bondi dining experience. A good workman never blames their tools, and at Bondi Hardware they’re the best in the business!

http://www.bondi-hardware.com.au

WHAT’S ON** FEEL THE LOVE THIS VALENTINE’S DAY IN SYDNEY

This Valentine’s Day there is plenty to treat your other half to, or yourself!

Here is a comprehensive list for you to have a glance at, to give you inspiration for the day of love!

Valentine’s Day at Arras

At this stunning restaurant nestled in the heart of Sydney’s CBD, it’s the perfect choice for an inner city splash out. Think amazing food, stunning intimate interior and LOTS of brownie points! There’s a five course menu and an eight course degustation to choose from.

Bucket List Bondi

“Come in to The Bucket List and break bread with your Valentine on February 14!” – The lovely guys at Bucket List: Bondi ‘s beach-front trendy eatery, have baked a special heart shaped loaf.

Top chef Tom has created a platter that he calls -‘Love to Share’. It promises to be amazing and has a bit of an aphrodisiac theme -rock oysters, tartare of salmon served with avocado crème, fresh figs , almonds, pomegranate and zucchini flowers … which will be sure to get you in the mood! at $40 it is incredible value.

Valentine’s Day with the Keystone Group

GAZEBO WINE GARDEN

The Scoot N Root

Glass of Madam Coco rosé, 1 x red stemmed rose, shared platter of aphrodisiacs to start and a main course – $55 per person

Glass of Taittinger, 1 x red stemmed rose, shared platter of aphrodisiacs to start, a main course and dessert – $99 per person

*Have dinner with us then head then over to Darlinghurst Theatre to see Torch Song Trilogy. If we book for you – we can get you a concession rate to the play for $35!*

THE WINERY

Fall in love at The Winery

Indulge in a desert tasting plate for two for $26 which can be ordered on the night.

MANLY WINE

Surf, Wine and Love at Manly

A delicious dinner, decadent desserts and a wine list to swoon over! We also have a rose, chocolate and glass of bubbles for $15 to make your dinner that little bit extra special.

NEWTOWN HOTEL – THE ANIMAL

Get animalistic this Valentine’s Day

Enjoy bubbles on arrival, a flower for your valentine and a feast for 2 from our Greek Eatery – $55 per person

AND if you are flying solo this Valentine’s day…

Sweethearts Rooftop BBQ

Who needs boys anyway?

$35 Banquet menu including cocktails on arrival.

MCA Café’s “Sounds on the Terrace”

At the MCA Café in the Rocks, guests can soak up free live music and spectacular views from Circular Quay to the Harbour Bridge at the Café’s Sculpture Terrace where Sounds on the Terrace takes place. This is the perfect spot to start your Valentine’s evening with pre-dinner drinks before your dinner reservation nearby. Or you can make a night of it in the relaxed ambience, sipping champagne and enjoying shared plates with friends and loved ones. New Sydney-based act, Recall will feature music composed by Daniel OʼLeary on the night.

MCA Cafe & Sculpture Terrace

The MCA Café and Sculpture Terrace is located on Level Four of the Museum of Contemporary Art. The understated but luxurious finishes of the Sculpture Terrace provide a sleek contemporary backdrop to suit any occasion. Open to the public as well as Museum visitors, the café has a contemporary atmosphere in which to enjoy lunch, morning or afternoon tea, or simply to drop in for a coffee. The seasonal and sustainable menu changes daily, to utilise fresh, local produce.

Date: Thursday 14 February 2013
Time: 05.30 PM – 09.00 PM
Location: MCA Sculpture Terrace, Level 4 Museum of Contemporary Art, 140 George St, The Rocks
Cost: Free
More Info: http://www.mca.com.au/events/sounds-terrace-14-feb/5822/

Vaucluse House Tea Rooms

At the Eastern Suburbs’ historic Vaucluse House Tearooms, Fresh Catering will present an exclusive dining event featuring live entertainment for couples celebrating Valentine’s Day, Thursday February 14^th. The Tearooms are situated within the grounds of the Vaucluse House Estate.

Guests will be treated to a sumptuous three course dinner prepared by award-winning caterer, Fresh Catering, together with a glass of sparkling wine on arrival. With bookings available after 6pm, the price for each guest is $65. Live harp music will feature throughout the night, filling the room with a touch old school romance.

Celebrate Valentines at The Star Casino

The Darling

This February, The Darling hotel will be running its special ‘Be My Darling’ package including an overnight stay, romantic breakfast for two in your room and two cocktails at Cherry bar. For those seeking extra relaxation, it’s possible to upgrade your booking to a Jewel Suite for an additional $250 that entitles guests to a couple’s massage to the value of $350.

(Be My Darling $399; Jewel Suite Upgrade $250; to book quote “BEMYDARLING”; available Sunday-Thursday February 2013; 1800 800 830;www.thedarling.com.au)

Spa

In celebration of the month of love, The Spa at The Darling is offering two exclusive pamper sessions for both men and women – The Romeo and The Juliet. For the guys, what’s not to love about an invigorating sports massage, followed by a relaxing scalp massage and a refreshing beer afterwards as part of the treatment? The Juliet includes an express facial, back, neck and shoulder massage, the short and sweet pedi and an indulgent glass of champagne at the end.

(The Romeo – 1hr 15 $200; The Juliet – 1hr 30 $200; available February 2013; 1800 800 830; www.thedarling.com.au)

Sokyo

The contemporary Japanese restaurant will be serving an indulgent eight course menu, created by renowned chef Chase Kojima, including some of the restaurant’s most famed dishes such as its signature sushi and Abalone Tempura. Chef Kojima brilliantly fuses traditional Japanese culinary craftsmanship with modern Australian flavour.

($120 per person; bookings required; www.star.com.au/sokyo

BLACK by ezard

Award winning chef, Teague Ezard, has put together a seven course degustation menu for Valentine’s Day showcasing what makes BLACK by ezard one of Sydney’s top restaurants. From a delicate sashimi through to a luxuriant wagyu rump, the menu features the perfect balance of Australian and Asian flavours.

($130 per person, matching wines $70 per adult; bookings required; www.star.com.au/black)

Balla

Stefano Manfredi brings the best of romantic Italy to your table at Balla this Valentine’s Day with a four course set menu beginning with an antipasti feast, followed by a choice of fresh pasta, a main course of either wood grilled John Dory or veal tenderloin, finishing off with a delicious Italian dessert.

($125 per person; bookings required; www.star.com.au/balla)

Cherry

With its stunning harbour views, Cherry bar is the perfect setting for a stylish pre-dinner tipple to begin your evening. Choose from a host of impeccably made cocktails, made with only the finest ingredients, including fruity Bellinis, aromatic Mojitos and robust scotch based drinks.

(www.star.com.au/cherry)

Rock Lily: Thursday 14^th February

It’s rockabilly night at The Star’s live music venue this Valentine’s Day with a dance competition open to everyone! Strut your stuff on the dance floor to Australia’s best live swing acts for the chance to win prizes galore.

7:30pm-9:30pm – Aston Martinis

10:00pm – 11:30pm – Jordan C Thomas

(Entry is complimentary and no bookings are required. With a limited capacity, Rock Lily operates on a first in best dressed basis;www.star.com.au/rocklily)

24/7 Sports Bar Thursday 14^th February

It’s set to be an unforgettable Valentine’s Day for cricket lovers this year as Ricky Ponting, Brett Lee and Brad Hadden make an appearance at the 24/7 Sports Bar. There’ll be a chance to get the players’ autographs, listen to a short Q&A and enter a competition to win a framed signed bat by the Australian Cricket team.

(Entry is complimentary and no bookings are required. With a limited capacity, 24/7 Sports Bar operates on a first in, best dressed basis)

For bookings, more information or enquiries, visit www.star.com.au or call 1800 700 700.

So as you can see there is PLENTY to choose from! Hope you have a simply wonderful day and celebrate it with those that mean the most to you!

Social Spy** 4th Annual Rolling Stone Awards

The 4th Annual Rolling Stone Awards presented by PATRÓN TEQUILA hosted a fantastic event at Beach Road Hotel last night, Wednesday 16th January. This is Patron’s third year sponsoring the huge annual music event.

Guests on arrival were greeted with the option of either the Ultimat Rosemary Martina or the Patrón Perfect Margarita, presented in Patrón Jam Jars. Throughout the night Patrón offered new and exciting cocktails to choose from, the Ultimat Lychee Breeze, the Patrón Reposado Paloma, Bloody Maria Cabillito’s (with a cucumber foam) and the ever-popular Xpresso Martini (SS101 fave)

Bondi Ink gave a permanent reminder of the fun had at the Rolling Stone Awards. With an onsite parlour, guests were entitled to a free tattoo – one of the tattoos of offer was the Patrón Tequila BEE. There was one who was brave enough to go under the needle and pay his allegiance to the fastest-growing luxury ultra-premium tequila in the world.

Patrón was the proud sponsor of the two awards, presented by Tex Perkins. The Best New Talent (sponsored by Ultimat Vodka) was awarded to The Medics and the Single of the Year (sponsored by Patrón) went to The Presets, for the electro-pop track ‘Ghosts’ which was voted by Rolling Stone Magazine readers.

LOOK FIVE** On the fifth day of Xmas the only way to be seen, is rocking a hot swimsuit – A look that begs to be seen

As Xmas approaches and Sydney prepares for a hot sunny Christmas day, it is time to bring out the hottest swimwear you can find to ensure that you sizzle this summer!

Sydney Social 101 has a number of key looks to make you stand out from the crowd!

All looks can be purchased at www.skyeandstaghorn.com

Skye & Staghorn ‘Volkerson’ One Piece $210.00

Skye & Staghorn ‘ DK’ One Piece $206.00

Skye & Staghorn ‘Cody Jane’ One Piece $265.00

The back

Skye & Staghorn ‘Joker’ Two Piece $206.00

SOCIAL SPY** Bondi Short Film Festival

FINALISTS ANNOUNCED FOR THE 12TH ANNUAL BONDI SHORT FILM FESTIVAL

From over 200 submissions, the 12^th annual Bondi Short Film Festival has selected 14 of Australia’s most talented up and coming filmmakers for its 2012 shortlist of finalists. The finalists will compete for a prize pool valued at over $10,000, judged by a panel of highly respected award winning members of the Australian film and television industry.

The award categories presented by this year’s Festival sponsors include: Hoyts Kiosks ‘People Choice Award’, Proof Sunglasses ‘Best Script Award’, Boca Lupo ‘Best Music Award’, Spectrum Films ‘Best Production Award’, WeWood Watches ‘Best Actor Award’, Santa Vittoria ‘Best Cinematography Award’ and Showtime Movie Channels ‘Best Film Award’.

The 12^th annual Bondi Short Film Festival finalists include:

Thin Air – Directed by Natalie Nalesnyik

A teenage gymnast watches a questionable relationship unfold between her teammate and her coach. Confronted by mixed feelings of jealousy and suspicion, she struggles in knowing the truth behind his actions. She must decide, despite her doubts and fears, whether to follow her instincts.

The Art of Boxing– Directed by Andrew Flakelar

We all know boxing to be a brutal pursuit, but few recognise and appreciate the artistry of its finesse, strategy and heart. Seen through the eyes of Newton “The Butcher” Kidd, a grassroots professional fighter from the Bronx, New York, The Art of Boxing takes a cinematic view of the complexity and poetry of boxing by shattering the commonly held view of a simplistic and barbaric contest, elevating the drama, determination and struggles of this passionate boxer.

Push & Pull – Directed by Dorothy Pranolo

Lisa, a young Asian-Australian girl, feels forever pressured by her mother to be the perfect violinist. When tensions between the two collide at Lisa’s much anticipated violin audition, which path will she follow? The life she wants, or the one her mother has paved for her?

Embellish – Directed by Chris Radburn

Chris doesn’t talk about his acting career because he hasn’t got one. But he soon realises sometimes the only thing you can do is embellish.

Mug’s Game – Directed by Lav Bodnaruk and Michael Mier

Shad Newbolt has been a boxer for as long as he can remember, but something has changed. For the first time in his career he is gripped by fear, but Shad’s manager is unconcerned by his fears and presses the point that he doesn’t just box for himself and it would be even more dangerous for him to quit. Stuck between a rock and a hard place, in his tormented mind, Shad only sees one way out!

Grandma – Directed by Michelle Lia

Sean is walking home to his grandmothers after seeing his friend at the park. In the meantime, Sean’s grandmother receives a letter that will potentially change her grandson’s life. She positively can’t wait until he gets home to tell him the good news. Now…when is he coming home?

Reason For Living – Directed by Graeme Simsion

He’s a computer expert in his early 40s, fit and financially independent. He travels widely, has a range of interests and enjoys socialising. What he wants more than anything else is someone to share his life with. But his relationships seldom progress past the first date. He doesn’t seem to be wired for romance. Then he meets someone.  Fate has dealt her a bad hand, but she is destined to become his reason for living. From the author of The Rosie Project, a true story about finding love.

 Young Blood – Directed by Billy Otto

The lives of three extremely vulnerable young men from New Zealand, Australia and Vietnam are traced as they reflect on their desire for acceptance. All coming from broken families, they retell their experience in their local gangs.

The Grand Design – Directed by Samuel Bartlett

A metaphysics student that believes he can scientifically decipher fate, must choose between saving his own life or that of a stranger after living the same day twice.

A Place Like This – Directed by David May

A RAAF pilot’s extraordinary survivor tale of a night he will never forget told in a garden paradise that he has created.

The Maker – Directed by Christopher Kezelos

A strange creature races against time to make the most important and beautiful creation of his life.

Julia – Directed by Brodie Rocca

A coming of age film that explores themes of manhood, the fight for beauty and classic romance in a modern concrete world. George, the wounded hero who has yet to accept the end of a relationship meets a mystery girl. Young, intelligent and dangerous, she’s about to give him the push he needs.

Resistance – Directed by Blake Borcich
A Nazi officer is blown into a cellar during the bombardment of a French town. Two women are seeking shelter in the same cellar and they become suddenly trapped. But where is the danger – outside or within?

The Gnome Garden – Directed by Elena Hattersley

A documentary that follows the story of Kerry, a collector of all things gnome, who gives the audience a peek into her world and how she ended up with over 300 gnomes.

WHAT: 12^th annual Bondi Short Film Festival

WHEN: Saturday, November 24^th 2012

WHERE: Bondi Pavilion, Bondi Beach

TICKETS: Moshtix – http://www.moshtix.com.au or 1300 438 849

COST: $33 + booking fee

TIMES:

• Matinee Session – 3pm (Main Theatre) Doors open at 2pm

• Evening Session 1 – 7:30pm (Main Theatre) Doors open at 6pm
• Evening Session 2 – 8:15pm (Seagull Theatre) Doors open at 6pm

Website: www.bondishortfilmfestival.com

What’s On – OPEL MOONLIGHT CINEMA RETURNS FOR ITS 17th SEASON

Australia’s largest outdoor cinema, Opel Moonlight Cinema, will welcome the return of summer with its 17^th season of film in some of the nation’s finest public parks and gardens.

Combining a festival-like atmosphere with an unrivalled setting, Opel Moonlight Cinema will showcase an impressive mix of advance previews, recent release, classic and cult films during its three month season across Adelaide, Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane and Sydney.

Highlights of the program include Peter Jackson’s prequel to the Lord of The Rings trilogy, The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey; Daniel Craig’s return in the 23^rd installment of Ian Fleming’s James Bond series, Skyfall; and the highly anticipated film adaptation of Victor Hugo’s classic Les Misérables.

Cinema-goers can also look forward to the family friendly animated comedy, Wreck-It Ralph; the adventure film based on the 2001 best-selling novel of the same name, Life of Pi and the 2012 thriller, Argo, directed by Ben Affleck. The program will also feature much-loved cult films including Top Gun and Grease Sing-A-Long.

To complete the ultimate night of film under the stars, guests can bring along a picnic hamper, hire a bean bed and sample the delicious range of food and beverages available or indulge in a little luxury with PayPal Gold Grass tickets* including reserved seating and premium viewing location.

Moonlight Cinema 2012-13 season dates and locations:

• Adelaide: 29^th November 2012 to 17^th February 2013 at Botanic Park
• Melbourne: 6^th December 2012 to 31^st March 2013 at Royal Botanic Gardens
• Perth: 12^th December 2012 to 31^st March 2013 at Synergy Parkland at Kings Park and Botanic Garden
• Brisbane: 13^th December 2012 to 24^th February 2013 at New Farm Park at Brisbane Powerhouse
• Sydney: 13^th December 2012 to 31^st March 2013 atBelvedere Amphitheatre,Centennial Park

The official program will be announced in November. For further information visit www.moonlight.com.au.

*PayPal Gold Grass is available only in Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide.