Dancing in the streets

From our own backyard to further afield, travel editor Winsor Dobbin has the latest news and views

Fancy a big day out without leaving town?

Village high streets across the City of Sydney will be transformed into lively festival hubs over the next few weeks as part of the Sydney Streets program.

The roads – including Glebe Point Road – will be closed to traffic for the day as the street festivals kick off at 11am and run until late in the evening. The festivals feature live music performances, outdoor dining from local restaurants and food vendors, street entertainment and roving performers. Local businesses and organisations will host pop-up shops and outdoor market stalls, offering giveaways, competitions and exclusive deals.

The Lord Mayor of Sydney, Clover Moore AO, said the series had grown significantly since it was first introduced during the pandemic. 

“Sydney Streets provides a platform for local shops, restaurants and businesses to connect with their communities and visitors in a friendly, open-air environment,” Moore said.

“It’s an opportunity for locals to shop, eat and explore their neighbourhood, with unique experiences and surprises at every corner.”


Surrounding street closures and special event clearways set the stage for the events, opening with a Welcome to Country and traditional smoking ceremony. Activities to keep kids entertained will include a circus playground, origami workshops, face painting, art classes and reading areas.

Some events will feature a fun dog agility course, while others include fitness sessions, craft workshops, health checks and games.

February 15: Macleay Street, Potts Point
February 22: Stanley Street, Darlinghurst
March 8: Harris Street, Pyrmont
March 15: Glebe Point Road, Glebe
March 29: Redfern Street, Redfern
April 5: Crown Street, Surry Hills

For more information see whatson.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Hotel dining reimagined

Those in the know always advised avoiding restaurants that float, revolve or are located In hotels

The warning about floating and revolving eateries still holds true, but hotel restaurants are undergoing a renaissance, with a number of standout dining establishments earning or retaining coveted chef’s hats from the Australian Good Food Guide.

Proving that dining and drinking are integral parts of a memorable hotel stay, Accor is investing heavily in reinvigorating its food and beverage offering across its network, with a key focus on luxury and lifestyle hotels.

In 2025, five Sofitel and MGallery hotels in Australia have been honoured with one or two Chef’s Hats, a recognition of exceptional culinary talent, creativity, and dedication to excellence.

2 Hats: Atelier by Sofitel – Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour

Atelier by Sofitel is a true culinary masterpiece located in one of Sydney’s most spectacular hotels. The restaurant’s refined French-inspired menu, crafted by an exceptional team of chefs, showcases a blend of artistry and technique. Guests can expect impeccable service, stunning harbour views, and a creative culinary journey that delights the senses. The restaurant’s two-hat achievement is a testament to its exceptional dedication to fine dining.

1 Hat: Newmarket Restaurant – The William Inglis Hotel
Nestled in the William Inglis Hotel at Warwick Farm, Newmarket Restaurant is described as a vibrant, modern eatery that draws inspiration from the rich history and local produce of its surroundings. The kitchen has a commitment to contemporary Australian flavours, paired with seasonal ingredients, to create a dining experience that captures the essence of a region that is still home to some small farms.

1 Hat: No.1 Sublime Pt – Fairmont Resort Blue Mountains

Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Blue Mountains, No.1 Sublime Pt offers a fresh take on modern Australian cuisine. This intimate, elevated dining experience highlights local produce and celebrates regional flavours in dishes that are both inventive and grounded in tradition.

1 Hat: Garcon Bleu – Sofitel Adelaide

With a refined yet approachable atmosphere, French-accented Garcon Bleu at Sofitel Adelaide transports guests to the heart of French culinary tradition. The restaurant emphasises both technique and simplicity, creating dishes that reflect the elegance and artistry of classic French cooking, with a local twist.

1 Hat: Luma Restaurant – The Playford Adelaide

Luma Restaurant offers a sophisticated yet welcoming setting for guests to explore modern Australian cuisine with an emphasis on local and seasonal ingredients. The menu is a tribute to the rich diversity of South Australian produce, with flavours that are described as “bold, balanced, and reflective of the region’s terroir.”

These accolades highlight a strategic and intentional shift by Accor to elevate food and beverage offerings as an essential part of the guest experience.

“Hotels are no longer just places to rest while travelling; they have become destinations in their own right, where exceptional dining experiences rival the very best standalone restaurants,” said David Fraser, vice president operations for Sofitel, MGallery and Emblem hotels in the Pacific.

“At Sofitel hotels, cuisine is an art form and an expression of local flavours, often with a touch of French zest; while MGallery hotels are known for delivering memorable and meaningful moments with a focus on mixology that is inspired by local culture and flora.

“These Chefs Hats are a testament to our teams, who excel at the culinary arts and who deliver outstanding experiences to our guests every day.”

— 

 Change of Thai focus

Thailand may be known as a sunny holiday destination with great islands and beautiful beaches but it also wants to boost its reputation as a serious health and wellness destination.

The Thai pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, in Japan, will highlight the country’s commitment to becoming one of the global leaders in medical and wellness services. In line with the Expo’s theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives,” Thailand will aim to demonstrate how its blend of traditional practices and advanced medical services can foster “happiness and well-being for all”.

Thailand’s Minister of Public Health, Somsak Thepsutin, says Expo can promote Thailand as a preferred global medical hub.

“We are excited to take part in this global event, where Thailand will share its unmatched expertise in both traditional Thai medicine and modern healthcare,” Somsak said.

“Thailand’s policies are focused on transforming the country into an international medical hub, and our participation in Expo 2025 in Osaka will highlight our strengths in these areas.”


The Thai Pavilion at Expo 2025 will feature five key areas: 

# Traditional Thai Healthcare: Emphasising the harmony between humans and nature, traditional Thai medicine has been practiced for centuries and remains integral to the country’s identity.

# Thai Herbs and Culinary Health: Thailand’s rich culinary traditions, such as the world-famous Tom Yum Goong, incorporate the healing power of Thai herbs, showcasing their health benefits.

# Thai Herbal Medicine: Visitors will learn about unique herbal products such as aroma inhalers and therapeutic massage oils, commonly used to promote health and well-being.

# Thai Massage: Known as a UNESCO cultural heritage activity, Thai massage is renowned for its healing properties, combining therapeutic techniques with relaxation.

# Modern Medical Excellence: Thailand is a recognised leader in modern healthcare, with 62 medical organisations accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI), ranking the country fourth globally and No. 1 in Southeast Asia.

Thailand’s healthcare services and hospitality have helped the country rank among the world’s top five medical tourism destinations.

Expo 2025 is expected to attract 28 million visitors from around the world.

See Winsor’s work at gourmetontheroad.com