Potts Point

SOCIAL SPY** The Crane Bar Restaurant Launch

The Crane Bar Restaurant, Sydney’s hot new Japanese eatery in Potts Point, opened its door to VIP guests and socialites last night.

Geishas and traditional Japanese drummers greeted guests on the red carpet outside the stylish restaurant.

Celebs attending the bash included X Factor host Luke Jacobz, Home & Away’s Dan Ewing and his wife Marni Little.

Taking the bar by storm, resident mixologist Thiago Santos created cocktails and also on offer was delicious Japanese canapés selected from the menu. Top chef Tiachi Ito impressively carved a 50kg fresh Tuna into bite-sized servings of sashimi.

Inside and outside the establishment was packed with attendees and the atmosphere was buzzing as a DJ pumped out upbeat tunes in the garden, which was decorated with oriental paper lanterns.

“We’ve been inundated with interest about tonight’s event and the venue in general,” Sarah Budge, co-owner said about the launch.

The venue is situated on Bayswater road and holds a 24 hours license for late night diners. Corporate and social events are also available.

For more information about the sophisticated hip new eating place go to http://www.cranesydney.com/

Sydney Social’s roving reporter Jennifer Fletcher attended the launch last night.

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** Baileys Launch at Crane Bar

Last night Sydney Social was invited to the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia after party with the launch of the feminine new look bottle BAILEYS Original Irish Cream. Guests enjoying BAILEYS cocktails and Japanese inspired canapes at fabulous Crane Bar in Potts Point. With this week being fashion week in Sydney the makeover was complete with Baileys partnership with up and coming fashion label Blessʼed are the Meek.

A well-dressed crowd included Samara Weaving, Simone Holtznagel and designer Maria Maung. Guests sipped on the delicious BAILEYS ESPRESSOTINI and BAILEYS VANILLA showcasing the smooth Irish cream as this seasons must have uber chic drink.

The collaboration from the night saw the new BAILEYS bottle brought to life in a series of captivating lifestyle images shot by renowned fashion photographer Sonny Vandevelde, in the inspiring West MacDonnell Ranges located in the Northern Territory. The West MacDonnell Rangesʼ breathtaking sandstone cliffs and gorges provide a remarkable and natural backdrop for the striking new black and gold BAILEYS bottle. The images also showcase a sneak peak of Blessʼed are the Meekʼs 2014 Spring Summer range, with fabrics from the collection cascading beautifully around the new BAILEYS bottle.

A fact Sydney Social learnt last night that BAILEYS Original Irish Cream is the also the world’s biggest seller in its field, with over 82 million bottles sold worldwide each year. Every minute of every day over 2000 people around the world are enjoying a Baileys!

I’ll grab my BAILEYS ESPRESSOTINI (or four) and cheers to that. Also very impressed with the new Japanese fused Crane Bar in Potts Point. Great refurbishment of one of the fab spaces in Potts Point.

For more info check out http://www.diageo.com and http://www.cranesydney.com/

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!

CHEAP EATS** The Village Potts Point – Oysters for One Dollar!!!

A sweet summer breeze, your Sunday best and a crisp white, what better way to spend your summer evenings with all your friends in sight?!
At Potts Point’s The Village, they are serving up the finest and freshest Sydney Rock Oysters – for ONE DOLLAR!!!

Yes, you heard correctly Sydney Social 101 readers, the one venue in Sydney where you can get an oyster for one mother-shucking dollar.

To launch The Village’s $1 Oyster All Day Sundays, Potts Point’s latest and favourite hot spot eatery is running their very first Sydney Rock Oyster Eating Competition!

Running over four fun-filled Sundays between 12:30pm and 9pm from December 2 through the following three consecutive Sundays, Sydney-siders have the chance to enter the all-you-can-eat Oyster competition before the eat-off to end all eat-offs on December 23 where entrants will be vying for a prize pool totalling $1750!

With only 1 hour to test their oyster-eating stamina, participants are free to enter and face the challenge up to four times. For the finale on December 23, The Village will invite back the top five oyster-eaters to do it all again mouthful by deliciously briny mouthful for their chance to win one of the following prizes:

1^ST PRIZE $1000 Village Voucher

2^ND PRIZE  $750 Village Voucher

3^RD PRIZE  $500 Village Voucher

To enter, participants must email their Name, Address, Mobile Number and estimated amount of oysters to be eaten to info@the-village.com.au. For further information, Terms & Conditions or Media Enquiries, please contact Alex Couzens – alex@lovepr.com.au.

So if you love good oysters and social summer Sundays, get the shuck over to The Village this December and test your luck!

SOCIAL SPY** XMAS EVE, XMAS and BOXING DAY CELEBRATIONS ACROSS SYDNEY

Bungalow 8’s Xmas Eve Bash

Get your mates together and come and celebrate the silly season with $5 drinks, great party tunes and good times on Sydney harbour.
Date: 24th December 2012

Bungalow 8

Time: 6pm

Cost: Free

Address: 3 Lime St, Sydney NSW 2000

(02) 9299 4660

 Cargo Lounge, BBM’s British Christmas Eve Party

Cargo Lounge by Moon Light

What do you do when you find yourself on the other side of the world on Xmas Eve thousands of miles away from your family? Party like Brit!

Date: 24th December 2012

Time: 4pm

Cost: Free for Brits

Address: 52-60 The Promenade Sydney NSW 2000

(02) 9262 1777

BLOC PARTY at Sugarmill, Kit & Kaboodle, Sweethearts Rooftop BBQ

4 Levels of entertainment every Saturday night. Old school hip-hop on the rooftop, party mash ups on level 2, house music on level 1 and house classics in the Main Bar.

Date: 23rd of Dec and every Saturday

Time: 10pm

Entertainment: Alison Wonderland, Joyride, Devola, Hobophonics, Steve Franks, Baby Gee, Chris Coast, Mista Kay, Micky D + many more.

Address: 33-37 Darlinghurst Road Kings Cross 2011

(02) 9368 7333

The Newtown Hotel Christmas Party

Wolves and Lace Xmas Bash – be there.

Date: 23rd December 2012

Time: 12pm

Entertainment: DJ’s – Girls night Sveta, Girlthing DJ’s

Cost: Free
Address: 174 King St Newtown NSW 2042

(02) 9557 6399

Gazebo Wine Garden, Christmas Eve Party

Catch up with your chosen family for drinks and dinner.

Date: 24th December 2012

Time: 6pm

Cost: Free
Address: 2 Elizabeth Bay Road Elizabeth Bay NSW 2011

(02) 9357 5333

The Winery, Christmas Eve Party

Celebrate Christmas the European way, on Christmas Eve at The Winery.

Date: 24th December 2012

Time: 6pm

Cost: Free
Address: 285A Crown Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010

(02) 9331 0833

Manly Wine, Christmas Eve Party

Get your mates together and come and celebrate the silly season with $10 drinks, $20 buckets, great party tunes, sea breezes and Australia’s best bar views of Manly Beach

Date: 24th December 2012

Time: 6pm

Cost: Free
Address: 8-13 South Steyne, Manly NSW 2095

(02) 8966 9000

BOXING DAY

 Boxing Day on the Harbour, Bungalow 8 & the loft

Watch the sun set over the Harbour and enjoy fresh seafood platters + sparkling for $140 or $15 sangria jugs.
Date: 26^th December 2012

Time: 12pm until late

Cost: free
Address: 3 Lime St, Sydney NSW 2000

(02) 9299 4660

 Cargo Bar & Lounge, Boxing Day Bash

Party day into night with an all-star entertainment line-up, $5 beers, $5 bubbly & $10 steaks.

Date: 26th December 2012

Time: 12pm till late

Cost: $10 after 10pm
Address: 52-60 The Promenade Sydney NSW 2000

(02) 9262 1777

Boxing Day at Gazebo Wine Garden

Grab picnic lunch with a bottle of rose/bubbles.

Date: 26th December 2012

Time: 12pm until late

Address: 2 Elizabeth Bay Road Elizabeth Bay NSW 2011

(02) 9357 5333

 Boxing Day at The Winery

Join us in the laneway for a drinks and nibbles.

Date: 26th December 2012

Time: 12pm until late

Address: 285A Crown Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010

(02) 9331 0833

 Boxing Day at Manly Beach

Spend your afternoon in a place you’d rather be, with mates at Manly Wine, $20 Corona buckets and $15 jugs!

Date: 26th December 2012

Time: 12pm until late

Address: 8-13 South Steyne, Manly NSW 2095

(02) 8966 9000

Sydney’s Cheap Eats 101

Feeling the purse strings tightening this month? These cheap and delicious eats will have you sorted till pay day, whilst keeping your social life in tact.

These are some of the best cheap eats you’ll find in Sydney – tried and tested by our very own food reviewer, who’s eaten her way through Sydney (Pac-man style).

We have you covered for every day of the week…

Monday

Forresters: Newly revamped with a fresh new menu that’s drool-worthy. Putting up a delicious and juicy $5 steak all day – comes with mash and gravy, just buy a drink!

336 Riley Street Surry Hills
(02) 9212 3035

The Norfolk: Does killer mini burgers for $4 each. Choose from seven mouth-watering options including Cheese Burger, Feelin O Fish, Chicken Katsu, Pork Belly, El Nino and for the vego’s – the almighty “Mac ‘N’ Cheese.”

305 Cleveland St. Surry Hills
(02) 9699 3177

The Dolphin: Do a pretty damn good Grain fed Rump steak Monday-Wednesday. Comes with your Choice of Fries or Mash, 3 Sauces + Green Salad for only $12

412 Crown Street Surry Hills
(02)9331 4800

The Passage: Serves their tender Angus Sirloin Steak with Red Wine Jus and crisp shoe string fries or only $10.

231 Victoria Street Darlinghurst NSW 2010
(02) 9358 6116

They don’t call it tight-arse Tuesday for nothing…..

The Passage: Have a massive 50% off their food menu. This includes crispy golden Zucchini Flowers stuffed with goats cheese and perfectly drizzled with truffle honey…to die for!

The Norfolk: $3 tacos madness – these are positively delish and come in beef, pork, veg, chicken, fish and duck encased in a soft tortilla, garnished with an array of fresh mex favourites and topped off with their famous chipotle mayo…yum!

Wednesday:

The Passage: Is a winner again with $4 sliders and ciders all day long.

‘The Mighty Duck’ w/ Chinese Style Peking Duck, Shallots, Cucumber and Hoisin Sauce

You can choose from the 3 standard options from the a la carte menu as well as a weekly “slider du jour.” Recent additions have included Veal Saltimbocca w/ Sweet Potato Rosti and Cheesy Polenta.

The ‘Pie Float Slider’: w/ Shepherds Pie & Mushy Peas

You can also choose from Slow-Roasted Goose w/ Chestnut Stuffing, Cassis Onion Marmalade and Horseradish Cream….drool!

Johnny Wong’s Dumpling Bar: $1 Dumpling mania. Choose from 4 tantalising options including pork, prawn gow gee, chicken and water chestnut and vegetarian. Sharing is caring so stock up!

Kinselas Building (next to The Standard and half way up the stairs towards Lo-Fi)
Level 1, 383 Bourke Street, Darlinghurst
(02) 9331 3100

The Carrington: $3 Pintxos – Individual morsels of goodness that are gone in just a couple of bites. These include a potato tortilla stack with jamon and cheese and AMAZING black paella balls. These options change each week so you’ll want to come back and try them all!

563 Bourke Street Surry Hills
(02) 9360 4714

Thursday

Hugo’s: Try its award winning pizza for only $5. The crust is perfectly waif thin with toppings that include all your traditional favourites with a chic twist. Choose from chilli prawn (personal fave), Pork Belly, Ham & Pineapple, Pepperoni and a sensational truffle mushroom one for the vegos.

1/33 Bayswater Road Potts Point
(02) 9332 1227

Don Don: A great little gem in the heart of Oxford St – serving delectable sushi hand rolls from only $2, delicious rice bowls (that come with a side of tasty U-Don soup) as well as all of your favourite Japanese cuisine all week long.

Friday

El Loco: For some fun, post drinking nourishment head to this local haunt – serving up tasty pockets of heaven till the wee hours. Choices include lemongrass beef, spit roasted pork, prawn, chilli marinated tofu, chicken, and (for those who are feeling extra courageous after a few beverages) “The Secret Taco.”

Excelsior Hotel
64 Foveaux Street, Surry Hills
(02) 9211 4945

Chat Thai: All your authentic Thai favourites and cheap as chips! Top picks include Pad Si Ew. and Emerald Duck. They also have an insane selection of Thai deserts that come in all sorts of colours, textures and flavours, including do-nut fingers with Pandan custard dip and Mango sticky rice. Open till 2am for those looking for a late night fix.

They also won the SMH Everyday Eats Overall Champion Award this year! They have a more upmarket offering at Westfield Pitt Street Mall, they also really push for the affordable food angle!

In addition to this branch, they also have a branch on Manly Wharf, so you can even get your Chat Thai fix at the beach! It used to be a take-away bar, but now is a fully fledged restaurant with about 50 seats and should receive its liquor licence in mid-December! Woop!

20 Campbell Street, Haymarket (02) 9211 180

So this is the first of many ‘ Cheap Eats’ posts for Sydney Social 101! If you have any specific suburb requests, please don’t hesitate to get in touch!

This post was compiled by Sydney Social 101′s roving food reporter, Sasha Tsibulya.

SYDNEY SOCIAL 101′S MELBOURNE CUP INSPIRATION

So silly season is almost upon us and the true start of the festivities bestowed upon Australians over the summer period is of course the Melbourne Cup!

Sydney Social 101 has compiled a guide for the Melbourne Cup celebrations across Sydney.

In no order of preference, here they are in all their glory:

FOUR POINTS SHERATON

The Heritage Atrium will boast: Sweeps a DJ, the must-have Projection screen & TV’s so that you can capture the action as it unfolds,  lucky door prizes, a fashion show and live cooking stations.

All this for just $55 per person, which  includes all food and a glass of Chandon on arrival. Bookings here.
HUGOS
GRAZIA will be hosting the ‘Get Racey’ luncheon at Hugos Bar Pizza with Editor Amy Molloy. Tickers are $120 pp includes a 3-course lunch plus all beverages. If this sounds like an event you’d like to back, bookings can be made at 02 9357 4411.

KEYSTONE

The functions teams at Keystone are raring to go with a range of Melbourne cup packages. With a range of delicious meals, beer, bubbles on offer and big screens in each venue what better way to make sure you don’t miss out on the action! Each Melbourne cup package includes big screens, sweeps & fashion on the field. Plus TAB facilities a stone throw away from each venue.

The Loft, King Street Wharf – $99 per person, cocktail style. This includes a premium 3 hour beverage package and 8 piece canapé style lunch. For more information, contact 02 8070 2400 or functionsandevents@tksg.com.au

Cargo Lounge, King Street Wharf – $99 per person, cocktail style. This includes a premium 3 hour beverage package and 8 piece canapé style lunch. For more information, contact 02 8070 2400 or functionsandevents@tksg.com.au

Cargo Bar, King Street Wharf – $99 per person, sit down lunch. Includes 3 drinks and a 3 course meal, of a shared antipasto platter to start, alternate main and dessert canapés. To book, contact 02 9262 1777 or info@cargobar.com.au

Bungalow 8, King Street Wharf – $120 per person, sit down lunch. Includes 3 drinks and a 3 course meal, of entrée, alternative main, followed by dessert canapés. To book, contact 02 9299 4660 or info@bungalow8sydney.com

The Sugar Mill, Potts Point – $59 per person, sit down lunch. Includes 3 drinks and a 3 course meal, alternate main and shared dessert platter. To book, contact 02 9363 7333 or info@sugarmill.com.au

Kit & Kaboodle, Potts Point – $89 per person, cocktail style. Includes a premium 3 hour beverage package and 8 piece canapé style lunch. For more information, contact 02 8070 2400 or email functionsandevents@tksg.com.au

Gazebo Wine Garden, Potts Point – $130 per person, sit down lunch. Includes a glass of bubbles on arrival, 4 course lunch with a selection of 3 mains. To book, contact 02 9357 5333 or email info@gazebowinegarden.com.au

The Winery, Surry Hills – Choose between two options 1) $120 per person, cocktail style. Includes a glass of bubbles on arrival and a laneway style BBQ.  Or 2) $130 per person, sit down lunch. Includes a glass on arrival, 4 course seafood lunch with a selection of two mains. To book, contact 02 9331 0833 or email info@thewinerysurryhills.com.au

Manly Wine, Manly – $110 per person, sit down lunch. Includes a glass of bubbles on arrival plus a choice of his or hers 4 course menu with alternative mains. To Book, contact 02 8966 9000 or email info@manlywine.com.au

MERIVALE

The Kids Cup at ivy Charity luncheon is being held at the Ivy Ballroom of course! Tickets range from $200 per person or $2000 for a table. The cost includes three-course lunch including Chandon NV, wine and beer as well as sweepstakes, entertainment and live coverage of the race. All profits raised will go to Cure Our Kids. Bookings can be made here: 02 9240 3000

THE BERESFORD

Melbourne Cup After-Party at Upstairs Beresford. Punters can choose to continue the horseplay after the big race. Free entry and live entertainment including Furnace & The Fundamentals to party the night away, music to our ears!

BAVARIAN BIER CAFE

Bavarian Bier Café gears up for the race that stops the nation – The glamour and excitement of Melbourne Cup is fast approaching and Bavarian Bier Café is hosting fever pitched fun across its restaurants including CBD favourites O’Connell and York Street, Moore Park’s Entertainment Quarter, beachside suburbs Manly and Bondi, the north side’s Crows Nest and Chatswood, and Parramatta in the city’s west.

Whether you are excited to have a flutter on the horses or simply hoping to soak up the atmosphere of race day, Bavarian Bier Café is the place to treat yourself to more than just the office sweepstake this Melbourne Cup – with all participating venues screening the afternoon of racing live.

Special Cup day festivities include:

o    Sweepstakes, spot prizes and live screenings of the race across all restaurants.

o    Set menus including delicious homemade pretzels, Bavarian deli platters, schnitzels and traditional apple strudel. 2 course $49pp and 3 course $59pp. For bookings at Manly, Crows Nest, O’Connell Street and York Street restaurants.

o    Best dressed prize awarded to the most glamorous guy and gal.

Racing enthusiasts and aspiring trackside princesses alike can celebrate Melbourne Cup in true Bavarian style at Bavarian Bier Café. For more information about Melbourne Cup at Bavarian Bier Café, visit http://www.bavarianbiercafe.com/  or book by emailing reservations@bavarianbiercafe.com or callling 02 9259 5680.

Mumm Champagne Spring Carnival Bar at The BELLEVUE

Located upstairs at the Bellevue, the beautiful NV Mumm Champagne Spring Carnival Bar, styled by designer Michelle Leslie, was saturated with spring flowers, candles, painted murals, a freshly ‘turfed’ outdoor terrace and splashes of Mumm red and gold from the red carpet leading upstairs to lamp shades and Mumm imagery.

Set to be the place to be in Sydney during the spring racing carnival, the stylish ‘pop up’ bar will host Caulfield Cup, Cox Plate and Derby Day, as well as a special men’s dinner, a sumptuous Damien Pignolet dinner and the ultimate in Melbourne Cup day celebrations.

Bellevue Hotel co-owner and Riversdale Group CEO Paddy Coughlan welcomed guests, while ambassador for the NV Mumm Champagne Spring Carnival Bar Laura Csortan told VIP and celeb partygoers she was thrilled to be back from LA and in one of her favourite Sydney pubs for the launch of the bar, and DJ Alex Dimitriades spun cool tunes throughout the night.

The NV Mumm Champagne Spring Carnival Bar will run through until Melbourne Cup day on Tuesday November 6, and is available for group and function bookings.

MELBOURNE CUP AT THE OLD LIBRARY

From trackside to beachside all the glitz and glamour of Flemington will hit Cronulla when The Old Library Restaurant & Bar celebrates Melbourne Cup day in style.

A sumptuous three course luncheon  for just $75pp has been designed by Head Chef David Magill and showcases the very best in seasonal produce and modern Italian flavour.

David Magill says, “Spring isn’t just about racing, it’s also the time to celebrate nature’s bounty. So why not heighten your glass of Moët with the freshest the season has to offer.”

At The Old Library David’s spring inspired Melbourne Cup menu includes “Stuzzichini” (Appertizers) of snapper carpaccio, baby beetroots and blood orange and an amazing salad of marinated artichokes, broad beans, fennel, olive and purple potatoes.

There will be all the usual Melbourne Cup Day celebrations, including big screen broadcast of the races, a sweepstake and fashion parade that will help set the scene in the award winning stylish surrounds of the spectacular Old Library.

The Old Library’s Melbourne Cup Luncheon will run on Tuesday 6th November and is available from $75pp.  The Old Library is the only Shire restaurant to make it into the Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide. Bookings are essential.

Address: 15 Surf Rd, Cronulla, NSW

Phone: (02) 9544 5360

Opening Hours: Thursday – Sunday, midday ‘til late

FIRST IN, BEST DRESSED AT THE 3 WEEDS THIS MELBOURNE CUP

Suits and frocks, fillies and jocks, Melbourne Cup unites style queens, gamblers and equine enthusiasts once a year and this November, Rozelle’s 3 Weeds restaurant brings the festivities to Sydney with a Carnival Cup Luncheon for all.

The Restaurant at 3 Weeds brings all the fun and excitement of Flemington to Rozelle with an elegant Melbourne Cup day menu devised by Head Chef Leigh McDivitt.

Large screens provide ample views of the racing action, while sweepstakes and prizes for best dressed make for some great fun off the track.

True to tradition, toast with a glass of bubbles on arrival, before indulging in a 3 course spring luncheon with entrees such as Camomile tea smoked quail with hand-picked crab, basil, sweet corn and ginger jus gras.

For those looking for a more casual experience, ‘Picnic In the Bar’ entails a gourmet hamper for 5, filled with delights such as Chicken & tarragon terrine and smoked salmon, dill & crème fraiche. The $150 hamper is perfect for a relaxing long ‘picnic’ lunch and comes with the promise of dry weather, unlike the imminent rain Melbourne is infamous for.

There will be plenty of activities on the day both in the Bar and Restaurant.  Try your luck in the sweepstakes or the team race tipping competition where $500 in 3 Weeds vouchers will be up for grabs.

There will be prizes for Best Dressed Male and Female so don your race day best and join the 3 Weeds this Melbourne Cup!

The Carnival Cup Luncheon, held on Thursday November 1st, is available from just $80pp

Bookings are essential.

To book, head to http://3weeds.com.au or P: 02 9818 2788

The Restaurant is open:

Dinner – Tuesday to Saturday from 6pm.

Lunch – Last Sunday of the Month from 12pm

Special Events – Upon request

SO what you waiting for, there is SO much to choose from – GET INVOLVED!

SOCIAL SPY** Deshabillé & Pink Hope Blogger Lunch

Yesterday Sydney Social 101 had the absolute pleasure of attending the Deshabillé Blogger Lunch at The Village, Gold Room in Potts Point.