HOT OPENINGS

Shopping for flavour

The rollcall of eateries at Newcastle’s new dining and enter tainment precinct The Corner (in Charlestown Square) includes the mod-Asian Bao Brothers, ‘burger-and-chicken anarchist’ Rascal, Popolo Artisan Gelataria, Hunter Espresso and 4 Pines Brewing Company. charlestownsquare.com.au/the-corner

Grand pavilion

Merivale’s ambitious reinvention of Coogee Pavilion in Sydney continues with the opening of Middle Floor. Five years in the making, the expansive space is now home to Mimi’s restaurant, cocktail bar Will’s and Una Más, serving up wine and tapas, all stamped with Merivale’s signature style. merivale.com

Port of call

Bannisters Port Stephens has extended its offering with Cheeky Dog, a sprawling 400-seat pub that includes a beer garden, bistro and sports bar. Bannisters head chef Mitch Turner is in charge of the menu, creating Mediterranean-inspired dishes designed to share. cheekydogbar.com

Top cat

The Cat’s Meow in Sydney harnesses the glamour and danger of 1920s’ Darlinghurst (dubbed Razorhurst due to the razor gangs that frequented it) with its opulent fit-out of marble, dark velvet and moody lighting, and menu of decadent drinks with the likes of wasabi and yuzu added to cocktails.