Category: MELBOURNE

Vue de monde and Lui Bar: A Fresh New Chapter Begins

Vue de monde dining room Jason Loucas

Australia’s crown jewel in the culinary world, Vue de monde, alongside its sibling bar, Lui, and premier event space, are back at Melbourne’s Rialto Towers, unveiling their fresh and exciting new faces after a three-month hiatus. Vue de monde, renowned at both national and international levels, presents a distinctive dining room and a kitchen that have both been significantly revitalised. Executive chef, Hugh Allen, shares his enthusiasm over the improvements, “The transformation of Vue de monde and Lui Bar, a project several years in the making, is finally complete. The hiatus provided us with the time we needed to craft exquisite menus for both the restaurant and the bar. We eagerly await our loyal clientele’s reactions to the changes and look forward to welcoming new guests to our venues.” Vue de monde, under the leadership of Executive Chef Hugh Allen and General Manager Hugo Simoes, introduces an all-new 18-serving menu. This menu harmoniously mingles familiarity and innovation, continuing Vue de monde’s tradition of showcasing top-notch Australian producers. Lavish dishes include grilled lamb sweetbreads paired with asparagus from Koo Wee Rup and fermented macadamia sauce; padrón peppers stuffed with heirloom eggplant cooked in wild nasturtium oil, and a decadent two-part marron serving. The dining room now boasts signature Vue de monde tables by Ross Didier and kangaroo hide table tops by Theo Hassett, enhanced lighting, and an overhauled private dining room featuring a bespoke hand-blown light feature by Leisa Wharington. The open kitchen, a long-standing Vue de monde signature, also receives a major upgrade. Lui Bar,… Read More

Why you need to go back to Spice Temple: Crabs!

Spice Temple crab noodles

Spice Temple, the much-loved regional Chinese restaurant in Melbourne and Sydney, is celebrating Mud Crab season in true style, offering a feast featuring Australia’s native crabs – affectionately known as ‘Muddies’. These sumptuous crustaceans are at their seasonal best, boasting luxurious, irresistibly sweet flesh. As a quintessential ingredient in Chinese cooking and a star of the banquet style of dining at Spice Temple, the live Mud Crabs, sourced directly from Queensland, are cooked to order and dressed in delicious authentic sauces. The spice of the season, until Sunday, 31st December, is the $99 price point on all Mud Crab dishes – a value-packed proposition for a flavour-packed dish that promises to be a show-stopper at any group gathering over the summer, holiday and festive celebrations. Under the expert guidance of Spice Temple’s Executive Chef Andy Evans, the Mud Crabs are steamed to perfection to ensure their sweet, delicate flesh remains tender and untainted. Diners can choose from a variety of five traditional sauces to accompany the delectable crab meat. As the Mud Crab season progresses and the summer heat intensifies, Spice Temple’s menu will also feature Blue Swimmer Crabs and Snow Crabs, each adding their own unique flavours to the mix. For Chef Andy, Mud Crabs and live seafood are the epitome of Chinese dining and offer a unique opportunity to present the regional Chinese flavours that Spice Temple is famous for. In his words, “Mud Crabs are often considered a luxury, but the real treat for our guests this season is the limited-time $99… Read More

All about Miss Saigon in Melbourne – see it now

9. The Australian production of Miss Saigon Photo by Daniel Boud

Melbourne theatre-goers are in for an absolute treat as Cameron Mackintosh’s latest production of the award-winning musical, Miss Saigon, graces the stage of Her Majesty’s Theatre for a fleeting 7-week stint. The return of this heart-wrenching tale comes after a resoundingly successful Sydney season, and a 16-year hiatus since Miss Saigon last enthralled Melbourne audiences on the very same stage. Boasting a resplendent full 24-piece orchestra and an exceptional cast of 42 representing the length and breadth of the Asia-Pacific, this is a revival that is bound to take your breath away. Leading the standout Australian ensemble with aplomb is the internationally acclaimed Seann Miley Moore, who brings an electrifying performance in the role of The Engineer. Fresh-faced talent Abigail Adriano and Nigel Huckle as Chris make a formidable pair and, together with a supporting cast that includes the likes of Kerrie Anne Greenland, Nick Afoa, and Kimberley Hodgson, infuse new life into this timeless classic. Miss Saigon is a tale of love, loss, and resilience in the backdrop of war, and is set to a captivating score by Boublil and Schönberg that includes classics such as ‘The Heat is On in Saigon’ and ‘The American Dream.’ Since its premiere, this epic production has garnered an impressive 70 major theatre awards and has been performed in 15 languages across 350 cities worldwide. The reception to this rendition has been nothing short of ecstatic, with The Daily Telegraph calling it “thrilling,” and The Daily Mail dubbing it “the greatest musical of all time.” Don’t miss out… Read More

Melbourne’s best pubs and restaurants for Christmas Day dining

The Duke of Wellington Melbourne pub

As the Yuletide season approaches, bring out your festive spirit and join in the merriment at some of Melbourne’s finest pubs and restaurants. This Christmas Day, let these culinary destinations do the heavy lifting while you sit back, relax and indulge in a feast fit for a king. The Smith: A Family Affair The Smith, located at 213 High Street, Prahran, invites you to take part in their festive family-style lunch1. With two sittings at 11am and 2.30pm, this renowned establishment offers a tantalising three-course meal brimming with all the trimmings. Adults are priced at $145, and kids can join in the fun for just $45. College Lawn Hotel: A Classic Christmas At 36 Greville Street, Prahran, lies the College Lawn Hotel2. This Christmas Day, they’re serving a three-course sharing menu with a unique twist on Christmas classics. Catering to various dietary needs, they offer dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan menus. Seating times are set at 11am and 2.30pm, with adults priced at $130 and kids under 12 at $45. Sarah Sands Hotel: Festive Flavours The Sarah Sands Hotel at 29 Sydney Road, Brunswick, is ready to spice up your Christmas with their festive menu3. Their three-course meal features Christmas classics, with a vegetarian menu available. Sittings are available at 11am and 2.30pm, with adults priced at $130 and kids at $50. Station Hotel Footscray: Bubbles and Banquet Celebrate the festive season in style at the Station Hotel Footscray, located at 59 Napier Street4. Enjoy a three-course festive sharing menu filled with an array of Christmas… Read More

What to expect at LANDMARK by Lexus at Melbourne Cup Carnival

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On November 7, 2023, the Lexus Melbourne Cup Day promises more than just horse racing. As the centrepiece of the Melbourne Cup Carnival, this event is set to offer an unparalleled lifestyle experience for attendees, with Lexus leading the way through its unique offering, LANDMARK by Lexus. LANDMARK by Lexus, a reimagined lifestyle experience, is set to captivate attendees with its showcase of sophistication, style, and refinement that Lexus is renowned for. This year, the focus is on “Close to the Source,” a concept that celebrates the inherent purity and appeal of natural materials and sustainable, organic produce. An Exquisite Collaboration Collaborating with Lexus for this grand event is Australian restaurateur, chef, and long-standing Friend of Lexus, Luke Mangan. Together, they present a culinary experience that not only delights the taste buds but also highlights the importance of locally and ethically sourced produce. Lexus Ambassador Melissa Leong will join Mangan in detailing the culinary journey, exploring the flavours and techniques behind the food offering. Inside the LANDMARK by Lexus The LANDMARK by Lexus pavilion is a haven of tranquillity and elegance. Attendees are invited to venture across the three levels of the pavilion, where they can enjoy the soothing sounds of the Koto, Japan’s national instrument. The pavilion also features bespoke florals, ceramics, mixology, food, and furniture, all carefully crafted by masters in their fields3. A Celebration of Artisans This year’s collaborators are artisans who bring the “Close to The Source” concept to life through innovative design and breakthrough culinary flair. John Pappas, Lexus Australia… Read More

Auburn Hotel unveils $4.3m extension showcases new era of dining

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In the heart of Hawthorn, the iconic Auburn Hotel has been an integral part of the community for 135 years, serving up good times and great memories. Today, the beloved venue reveals a new face to its regulars and newcomers alike with the grand reopening after a $4.3 million extension. The refurbishment sees an expanded beer garden with a dedicated kids play area and the introduction of a stunning atrium-style dining hub – ‘The Pavilion.’ The multi-million dollar expansion brings an exciting blend of the classic and the contemporary to the local community. With new indoor and outdoor spaces, the Auburn Hotel is all set to become the go-to spot for food, drinks, and unforgettable moments. Previously housing horse stables and a motorworks garage, the neighbouring site now hosts ‘The Pavilion’, a modern atrium-style dining and drinking area. The Pavilion effortlessly marries history and modernity, featuring a retractable roof, a captivating fireplace centrepiece and a state-of-the-art pizza oven. The extension also includes a deck that seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor dining, adjoining a beer garden and a brand-new kids playground. With something for everyone, it’s the ultimate spot for year-round socialising. A refreshed menu, curated by Executive Chef Tony Moss, complements the new spaces. The menu features share dishes such as Burrata with sweet & sour tomato jam, Mushroom Arancini with truffle mayo and pecorino, and a range of mouth-watering Woodfire Pizzas. A full list of comforting pub classics like Lamb Pie and Roasted Pork Belly are also on offer, promising a treat for every… Read More

Savour the Delights: East Malvern Food and Wine Festival 2023

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The East Malvern Food & Wine Festival is once again set to grace the idyllic landscape of Central Park, East Malvern, for its sixth edition on Sunday, 19th November 2023, from 11 am to 5 pm. This gastronomic delight will feature a spectacular array of Victoria’s finest wineries, skilled food artisans, and engaging live entertainment. Back by popular demand, the festival will uphold its traditional format, offering free public entry and optional tasting ticket packages for wine connoisseurs and enthusiasts. As you amble through the verdant park, you’ll have the chance to sample exquisite wines from renowned Victorians estates such as Balgownie Estate, Linnaea Vineyards, and Red Edge Wines, to name just a few. But it’s not just about the wine – local breweries Hop Hen, Grand Ridge, and Two Doors will also be showcasing their craft beers. For spirits lovers, the Mornington Peninsula’s Great Ocean Road Gin will be serving their finest distillations. Celebrate the local flavours at the much-loved Tom Pockett Cellars Expresso Martini and Champagne Pop-Up Bar, or try the new El Jimador Tequila and Benriach Single Malt bars for some exceptional tequila and scotch whisky tastings. Hungry? Feast on a variety of dishes from renowned Melbourne food trucks, local restaurants, and gourmet pop-up stalls. Indulge in everything from Spanish paella to 400 Gradi pizza, with a delectable dessert selection rounding off the menu. Stock up on local produce, including Goldfield’s Farmhouse Cheese and artisanal condiments. Shop from a wide selection of vendors, including Melbourne Candle Co, Food Symphony, and Olive Branch… Read More

Embracing the Future: Extraordinary Luxury Meets Innovation at LANDMARK by Lexus

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As the confluence of Japanese and Australian landscapes and sensibilities merge, the much-anticipated LANDMARK by Lexus returns to the famed Flemington Racecourse in 2023. This exclusive pavilion, characterised by its sophisticated and elegant design, offers not just the best view of the Flemington Racecourse front straight, but also an array of culinary delights, entertainment, and the warm hospitality synonymous with the Japanese tradition of omotenashi. In its sixth year as the Principal Partner of the Victoria Racing Club (VRC), Lexus Australia continues its proud tradition of offering unique experiences, showcasing the melding of opulence and elegance with sustainability and organic production. This year, LANDMARK by Lexus pays tribute to Takumi craftsmanship, under the theme ‘Close to the Source’, celebrating the beauty and rarity of natural materials and genuine ingredients. Koichi Takada Architects have exclusively designed the LANDMARK by Lexus exterior, making a grand statement with the pavilion’s awnings fusing Japanese and Australian landscapes. The structure naturally integrates the best of both vistas, with the terraced awnings echoing the curvature of rice fields and softening the angular lines of the base building. Upon entering, guests of LANDMARK by Lexus are greeted by the Lexus Electrified Sport, a stunning futuristic sports car making its Australian debut. It perfectly embodies modern luxury, with pure materials crafted into works of art, set against striking floral arrangements. Inside, the pavilion consists of three distinct levels, each showcasing a synergy of sustainability and exceptional design. Australian restaurateur, Luke Mangan, is the culinary maestro behind the Lexus x Luke Mangan dining experience,… Read More

MAMMA MIA hits Melbourne: spectacular celebration of love, laughter and friendship

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The global musical phenomenon, MAMMA MIA! The Musical, has taken its final bow on the Australian tour, leaving an indelible mark on audiences with its vibrant energy, infectious tunes, and heartwarming narrative. The iconic ABBA hit songs had audiences dancing in the aisles from Sydney to Brisbane, and now, Melbourne’s Princess Theatre has been painted with the same vivacious colours of joy and nostalgia. Elise McCann, donning the platforms as the Dynamos lead singer, Donna Sheridan, delivers a captivating performance that leaves audiences spellbound. McCann’s theatre career shines brightly in her portrayal, cementing her status as one of Australia’s finest stage talents. Emerging Australian actor Sarah Krndija steps into the shoes of Donna’s daughter and bride-to-be, Sophie. With her recent roles in 9 to 5 The Musical and Friends The Musical Parody, Krndija brings a fresh and exciting perspective to the role. The dynamite duo of Bianca Bruce and Deone Zanotto complete the Dynamo trio, providing the perfect counterbalance to McCann’s Donna. Their camaraderie is palpable, and their performances are filled with vivacity and charm. Martin Crewes, Drew Livingston, and Tim Wright bring to life the three unsuspecting fathers with aplomb, each contributing their unique flair to the whimsical story. Lewis Francis, as Sophie’s adoring fiancé Sky, showcases his talent with a tender and engaging performance. Newcomers Nina Carmen and Kadesa Honeyhill, along with Jordan Tomljenovic and Etuate Lutui, add an extra layer of verve to the ensemble. The supporting cast, too numerous to name individually, all contribute to the overall success of the show… Read More

Vibrancy of South America at Melbourne’s Afloat Viva Mexico

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Melbourne’s beloved floating bar and restaurant, Afloat, has undergone an exciting transformation, unveiling a vibrant new theme that is set to immerse guests in the rich and colourful culture of Mexico. Afloat Viva Mexico is a celebration that reflects the vivacious spirit of Mexico City, Guadalajara, Oaxaca, and the tropical jungle-meets-beach paradise of Tulum. The new theme permeates the entire venue, influencing everything from the interiors and branding to the food, drinks, special events, and entertainment. According to Creative Director Georgie Larkins, “Afloat Viva Mexico is set to be our brightest and most ambitious season yet.” She continues, “It wouldn’t be possible without the contribution of hundreds of creatives, suppliers, trades, and hospitality experts from near and far. We’re so excited to celebrate Mexico’s rich culture with the wider community.” Executive Chef James Gibson has crafted a menu that’s rooted in authentic Mexican flavours and style, blending seasonal local produce with unique ingredients sourced from both Australia and Mexico. The menu is designed to cater to all types of gatherings and features an array of Seafood Platters & Raw Bites, Platos Pequeños (Small Plates), Tacos, Tortas and Platos Grandes (Large Plates). Notably, the Afloat’s signature wood-fired pizzas return with a Mexican spin. The new theme extends to the drinks menu as well, with Cocktail Director Tom Younger crafting a spirited list that features mezcal and tequila-based drinks. Margaritas of all tastes and flavours reign supreme, accompanied by Afloat’s beach club and party-in-the-sun classic cocktails. The new Afloat Viva Mexico also boasts an entirely new look…. Read More