With the Australia Day long weekend approaching, there’s no better time to get your patriotism on and discover (or re-discover) Sydney and Australia’s most iconic building, the Sydney Opera House.
Following the success of Summer at the House last year, the crew has upped their game and transformed the House into Sydney’s ultimate playground. With dazzling shows, a giant inflatable labyrinth, free activities, a range of tours and a new brunch menu at the Opera Bar, Summer at the House, 2014 is set to sizzle.
Opera Bar’s new brunch menu
Taking out the gong for Australia’s Best Bar in the Australian Travellers Readers’ Choice Awards 2013, Opera Bar is a favourite among us Sydneysiders. With unsurpassed views of the Harbour and a vivacious atmosphere, it is THE place to cool off on a hot summer’s night. So when I heard Opera Bar was now serving brunch, I put it at the top of my weekend checklist.
Now, you would think that the Opera Bar couldn’t possibly get any more iconic (it’s up there with Vegemite, lamingtons and Hugh Jackman’s abs) but, it has! Yes that’s right, the Hills Hoist has arrived at the House for this year’s pop-up bar. The theme is backyard BBQ complete with hanging washing, synthetic grass and a delicious new menu (no goon of fortune here!)
Mr LML and I grab a table under the umbrellas/makeshift Hills Hoist and check out the new menu. There’s staples like pastries, granola and eggs on toast plus some real wildcard options like a chorizo breakfast quesadilla – hello deliciousness! We choose the quesadilla and the smoked salmon panini with egg, capers and lime mayo. The coffee is fantastic and food, fresh and delicious – perfect for Summer! Sydney foodies, we’ve got a new front-runner in the brunch category!
So what to do after you’re fed and full?
Here are a few suggestions:
Explore the Exxopolis
After feasting on brunch, journey into a surrealist world and discover Architects of Air, a giant inflatable labyrinth. This is not just for kids; it’s a kaleidoscopic installation that’s definitely adult friendly. Warning: Instagram addicts will go crazy capturing their #photooftheday in this explosion of colour and light. Delighting over two million visitors in 40 countries around the world since 1992, this is a must!
Open from 10am to 7pm, Monday- Sunday. Get in quick, Architect of Air closes on the 27th of January. From $15pp.
See La Soiree
Of course, one of the BEST things to do at the Sydney Opera House is to see a show. After two sell-out seasons in 2012 and 2013, the sexiest show in Sydney is back! This dazzling showcase of cabaret, new burlesque, circus sideshow and vaudeville will have you enthralled. Gather the girls for a hilarious night out or re-vamp date night with Mr LML.
For the full experience, book a showcase package which includes a performance ticket, Opera House tour and one theatre bar drink. 🙂
La Soirée runs until the 16th of March. Showcase Packages are available to purchase here.
Take a Sydney Opera House tour
Whether you’re a local or visiting, this tour is a fascinating experience. Delve beneath the sails and discover the stories behind one of the most recognisable buildings in the world. You’ll learn how Danish architect, Jorn Utzon’s visionary building came into existence; hear about the HUGE construction budget blow-out and the public’s inspirational lottery fundraising; see the world’s largest mechanical action organ and walk through theatres and halls that have housed some of Australia’s most magnificent performances.
Book an official Sydney Opera House Tour here.
For the real VIP experience, book a Breakfast Backstage Tour.
| Hot Tip: After all that touring, treat yourself to an icecream from the Liana Raine popsicle cart in the Opera House forecourt– they’re yummy AND healthy! |