A vibrant hub of arts, culture and cuisine on the peninsula

Balmain has a long-held association with the arts scene, with many artists calling the area home and an exciting calendar of creative and cultural events taking place across our many interesting spaces.

Whether you’re a dedicated arts fanatic or a casual culture buff, the 2024 Biennale of Sydney will inspire and provoke, with the repurposed heritage-listed White Bay Power Station taking centre stage this year. We had the pleasure of witnessing the rebirth of this iconic early 20th century relic as it opened its doors to the public for the first time in over a century. Titled Ten Thousand Suns, this extraordinary, free extravaganza showcases the visionary creations of leading artists from around the world. Open daily until June 10, Ten Thousand Suns breathes new life into this architectural landmark, transforming it into a canvas for contemporary expression. And, if you’re looking to add some drama to your evening, Art After Dark every Wednesday gives you until 9pm to see the exhibition.

Always worthy of a look in is admired Art Gallery on Darling, which shows an ever-changing exhibition of original paintings, sculpture, printmaking, ceramics and photography from a wonderful stable of acclaimed Sydney artists.

Balmain is also having a culinary moment with the opening of a number of exciting new local eateries. The much-anticipated reimagining of the suburb’s oldest licensed pub, The Dry Dock Hotel, saw the beloved 166-year-old establishment undergo a sensitive transformation, setting course for its next chapter. You can now while away an afternoon in the classic Public Bar and Sports Lounge, enjoy a cocktail in the Lounge Bar or sample the wonderful menu in the Dining Room, helmed by seasoned chef Ben Sitton.

And when one door closes, another opens. The iconic former Victorian mansion on the corner of Elliott and Darling Streets that once housed popular Turkish diner Efendy is now home to Casa Esquina. This fiery Argentinian bar and diner from the team behind Paddington’s Tequila Mockingbird and Esteban in the CBD features a theatrical open kitchen, courtyard barbeques and one impressive cocktail list.

With so much on offer locally, it’s prime time to get out and show your support for our creative community.