Callum McDermott

Our first official year in the brainrot era was filled with notable moments. From coffee raves to a good old fashioned art heist, here’s what we latched onto this year.

“I think it’s the sum of all its parts, Marion, it’s not one particular thing. And that’s what connects us to so many people. There’s something for everyone in that space to connect to.”

Two new nautical knockouts in St Kilda, a bakery that can’t stop selling out and one of Melbourne’s most talked-about openings – which still somehow isn’t being talked about enough.

There’s been a late rally of excellent bars opening in Sydney recently – right in time for the very silliest of seasons. Plus, a relaxed diner in Newtown and a Chinese spot in Potts Point with a love for prawn toast, black pepper beef and lemon chicken.

Last night, we brought together some of Sydney’s best chefs and restaurateurs to recognise their work. From Hottest of the Year to the People’s Choice award, here are the night’s best moments.

On Monday, we brought together some of the city’s best chefs and restaurateurs to recognise their work. From Hottest of the Year to the People’s Choice award, here are the night’s best moments.

It’s been a big year for openings, and it keeps getting bigger. And though each of these Hot Listed new venues is wildly different, they’re all utterly devoted to using service to give you a memorable meal – or drink.

It’s been a big year for openings, and it keeps getting bigger. Though each of these Hot Listed new venues is wildly different, they’re all utterly devoted to using service to give you a memorable meal – or drink.

The sibling bar stays true to the team’s botanical theme. But unlike with cherry blossom season, you won’t have to time your visit to Sakura House carefully – come and enjoy it whenever you like. The later the better.

Hannah Green wants her new venue – in the former Bar Romantica space – to be the ultimate neighbourhood favourite. Come for cocktails, seasonal Italian food, DJs booked by a house music legend and an elevated take on a burger.

Silly season calls for going out a silly number of times. From late night dishes and drinks at a Thai Town institution to a new jazz night at one of Enmore Road’s best restaurants, there’s something great to do on The Hot List every night of the week.

The favourite St Kilda wine bar opens a cool, bright and breezy pub next door. There’s a Sunday roast, a steak night, a mean schnitty and the same polish and enthusiasm for great service as at The Walrus.