We chat to Christina Paterno, co-owner of Little Betty’s, about going from Kiama to the world and back again – and bringing the best of the big city home to the coast.

FoodSasha Johnson4 October 2023food, local food, cocktails, cocktail lounge

a piece of cake

Baker Chloe Kerr, of Willow George Cake Co, is known for her spectacular custom cakes, filled with flavour and a dash of nostalgia.

People, FoodSasha Johnson14 April 2023Coal Coastfood, people

tamarind fish curry

Tamarind is the fruit pod of a tree native to Asia and Africa and is used around the world for its medicinal properties and delicious sour-sweet flavour.

Enjoy this nourishing fish curry with cauliflower rice, quinoa or brown rice, some steamed green beans, leafy greens and garnish with fresh coriander.

Food, HealthSasha Johnson4 April 2023Coal Coastfood, health, people

root-cause approach

We may be more educated, these days, when it comes to gut health and the gut-brain connection, but many still treat the symptoms and struggle to find the root of the niggling health issues present.

People, FoodSasha Johnson27 March 2023Coal Coastfood, health, people

multicultural cringila

Once referred to as ‘Steeltown’, Cringila was well known for being a European migrant housing area in the 1950’s, with many households growing vegetables in their backyard gardens. Today it is an eclectic piece of suburbia, celebrated as a cultural food hub plus its world-class mountain bike track.

PeopleSasha Johnson20 March 2023Coal Coastaccommodation, stay, eat out, delicious eats, food, shopping

clifftop icon

A 100-year-old jewel, The Imperial Hotel at Clifton’s new chapter pays homage to its roots while celebrating a bright future.

FoodSasha Johnson20 March 2023Coal Coastaccommodation, stay, eat out, delicious eats, food, shopping

coal coast changemakers

Merrigong Theatre Company produces more new, local work than any other regional arts organisation in Australia. Leland Kean is Merrigong’s artistic development manager and, as he explains over lunch at The Fitz in Bulli, a lot goes on behind the scenes to make this happen.

PeopleSasha Johnson8 March 2023Coal Coastaccommodation, stay, eat out, delicious eats, food, shopping

beyond the blowhole

Kiama retains its coastal town charm of old, but behind the beaches, an eclectic cultural scene awaits.

LifestyleSasha Johnson1 March 2023Coal Coastaccommodation, stay, eat out, delicious eats, food, shopping, kiama

the timbermills

In 2012, when Joe McGuinness saw the ‘for sale’ sign on the old Bulli Timbermill, he knew exactly what to do with the space. Joe had recently relocated to the Illawarra and was commuting to Paddington where he owned a gallery and studio space.

Creative, Art, LifestyleSasha Johnson21 February 2023Coal Coastfood, creative locals, art

indian twist

An Indian inspired cocktail and tapas bar, owners Rushi and Jason spent their time during lockdowns planning down to the last detail for Ilu Ilu’s opening, serving up a modern twist on many traditional Indian flavours.

FoodSasha Johnson16 February 2023Coal Coastfood

love is in the air

Valentine’s day is approaching fast, and now is the perfect time to get into the spirit of the most romantic day of the year. Here are some hints and tips to make sure you spoil the ones you love and make it a memorable occasion.

Food, LifestyleSasha Johnson13 February 2023Coal Coast Magazinefood, food box, local

soba noodle salad

A fast, fresh and flavourful dish for summer - Soba Noodle Salad recipe by Nurture the Seed.

Food, Health, FamilySasha Johnson19 January 2023Coal Coaslfood

a taste of japan

Many would have stopped for a coffee, croissant and a chat at Thirroul institution Finbox over the years, but have you wandered past the much-loved cafe lately as the sun goes down?