Category: MELBOURNE

New wellness centre launches in Melbourne, EQ

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In the heart of Melbourne’s bustling urban jungle, where the daily grind can often feel like a relentless treadmill, an oasis of tranquility has emerged. Introducing EQ – the first-of-its-kind bathing and meditation experience designed to relax, recharge, and rejuvenate. And no, it’s not just a glorified spa day; it’s a sanctuary for those of us slogging through deadlines and endless Zoom calls, yearning for a little slice of serenity. Melbourne’s wellness market is part of a dynamic and evolving industry, with a focus on personalized, technology-driven, and holistic wellness solutions. And the people behind EQ knew this. Key trends in the space are aroun personalised diets, the water revolution, biohacking for longevity, gut health, and new commercial wellness offerings. These trends reflect a shift towards more personalised and holistic approaches to wellness. But EQ isn’t just another wellness fad; it’s the brainchild of Mia Basic, who traded her high-stakes litigation career for the even higher stakes of motherhood and self-discovery. Picture this: one day you’re crushing it in the courtroom, and the next, you’re knee-deep in nappies and sleep deprivation. Mia’s quest for balance and a healthy mind was the catalyst that led her to co-found EQ alongside Nicolas Crema and Andrew Barbone. “I had been working in a fast-paced industry for years and had neglected my health – which was exacerbated further after I gave birth to my daughter. I lacked tools to fight stress and to provide relief from the sleep deprivation and I found myself reactive, and illiterate about where I… Read More

ST. ALi in South Melbourne’s plans for winter

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Winter may be knocking on your door, but ST. ALi in South Melbourne is here to answer with a steaming hot new menu that’s set to melt the winter blues away. Picture this: an all-day roast, creative breakfast options, and signature drinks so good they’ll make you forget the cold. Let’s start with breakfast because who doesn’t love a morning feast? ST. ALi has rolled out some lip-smacking new dishes. Imagine a Hummus Breakfast that’s like a holiday in the Mediterranean with a poached egg, parsley pesto, crispy chickpeas, curry leaves, ST. ALi chilli oil, and focaccia. Or how about the Tokyo Omelette, featuring smoked eel, pickled enoki mushrooms, nori, and bonito flake butter? And for those craving a bit of nostalgia, there’s the ST. ALi Bubble and Squeak, served with pin sausage, fried egg, braised mirepoix, and potato mousse. Yes, it’s as good as it sounds. And lunch? You’re in for a treat. The star of the show is the Everyday Roast, which comes with Yorkshire pudding and all the trimmings. At $39, or $45 if you’re in the mood for a wine or beer pairing, it’s a steal. Got a crew of six? You can pre-order a whole roast with table service—because why not feel like royalty for a day? Vegetarians and vegans, don’t think we’ve forgotten you. Feast on the Steamed Silken Tofu with a dark shiitake vinegar dressing and spring onion, or the Eggplant Schnitzel with a spiced tomato sauce that’ll make you forget meat ever existed. Now let’s talk drinks… Read More

UGO Burrata Bar partners with Parco Ramen Collaboration

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UGO Burrata Bar is thrilled to unveil an exciting collaboration with the renowned ramen specialists, Parco Ramen, presenting a one-of-a-kind culinary creation, the Ise-Ebi Burrata Ramen, available exclusively on Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th July. This limited-time gastronomic masterpiece combines the richness of a lobster-infused soup with perfectly cooked noodles, accompanied by UGO’s signature Abruzzese style porchetta, fresh spring onions, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, and the creamy indulgence of burrata. Event Details: Dario Di Clerico, the co-owner and chef at UGO Burrata Bar, expresses his excitement about introducing this delectable fusion dish to the food enthusiasts of Melbourne. “As Melburnians cherish their love for ramen, and our burrata creations have garnered immense popularity since the inception of Burrata Bar earlier this year, this collaboration is a perfect marriage of flavors and creativity. Playing with the versatility of burrata has always been a joy. Just as the egg yolk traditionally enriches and adds silkiness to the ramen, the burrata heart (stracciatella) promises to elevate the soup with its luxurious texture! We invite everyone to savor this exclusive Ise-Ebi Burrata Ramen available at both our Burrata Bar in South Melbourne and Parco Ramen’s locations in Collingwood and Moonee Ponds.” Indulge in the winter warmth of the Ise-Ebi Burrata Ramen, a culinary masterpiece that promises to tantalize your taste buds like never before! For more information and updates, visit UGO’s official website. Don’t miss this exceptional dining experience brought to you by UGO Burrata Bar and Parco Ramen – where gastronomy meets innovation in every bowl!

Cannoleria x MoVida: The Pedro Ximenez & Raisin Cannoli

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This August, Cannoleria is thrilled to announce an exciting collaboration with one of Melbourne’s most beloved dining establishments, MoVida. From the 23rd to the 29th of August, or until sold out, all Cannoleria stores will feature the limited edition Pedro Ximenez & Raisin Cannoli as the Flavour of the Week. This unique treat showcases the culinary heritage of MoVida’s owner Frank Camorra, blending the rich notes of Pedro Ximenez, a renowned Spanish wine grape, with succulent raisins to create a delightful dessert experience. So, what exactly is the Pedro Ximenez & Raisin Cannoli? Picture Cannoleria’s signature crunchy shell filled with MoVida’s iconic Pedro Ximenez-infused raisins, combined with smooth ricotta, and topped with a delicious raisin crumble. This thoughtfully crafted cannoli promises to be a must-try for all Melburnians, urging everyone to mark their calendars and indulge in this delectable creation. “We are so excited to be continuing our collaboration series with MoVida,” shared Dario Di Clerico, co-owner and chef at Cannoleria. “It’s one of our favourite places to eat in Melbourne, and when Frank agreed to create a unique cannoli with us, I was absolutely delighted.” Frank Camorra echoed this enthusiasm, expressing his fondness for Pedro Ximenez. “In Spain, one of the most classic desserts is a vanilla bean ice cream sprinkled with Pedro Ximenez, which inspired this collaboration. The sweet, rich raisin flavour pairs perfectly with ricotta, making this cannoli an exceptional treat.” Following the successful collaboration with Mount Zero Olives last month, this partnership with MoVida signals more exciting flavour combinations to come… Read More

Celebrate the cooler months at Baker Bleu

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Baker Bleu is embracing the chill of the cooler months by introducing a delightful range of seasonal baked goods that promise to warm hearts and tickle taste buds. The star attractions include a reimagined Portuguese custard tart and an exquisitely crafted cinnamon scroll, both expertly baked by Baker Bleu’s dedicated team. With their signature laminated sourdough pastry enveloping a sumptuous custard mixture, the custard tarts have become an instant hit, flying off the shelves since they debuted as a winter bestseller. “Sourdough is our signature and so we wanted to bring our own spin on the classic custard tart. The result is something between the popular Portuguese pastel de nata and Chinese egg tart with a Baker Bleu touch,” comments baker and owner Mike Russell. The overwhelming demand saw these tarts quickly garnering a loyal following, a testament to their irresistible appeal. Complementing the custard tarts is the iconic cinnamon scroll, executed to perfection by Baker Bleu’s talented pastry chefs from Melbourne and Sydney. Made with Wholegrain Milling flour sourced from New South Wales, their proven yeasted dough is layered generously with Copper Tree Farms butter and cinnamon sugar, and finished with a luscious sour cream and cinnamon icing. This delightful treat pairs beautifully with a weekend coffee or a cozy catch-up with friends over baked goodies. “We’re excited for these products to land with our customers, new and returning, as they really showcase the talent and creativity of our pastry chefs and are the perfect comforting pick-me-up on these colder days,” adds Mike Russell…. Read More

The Smith’s creative series in Melbourne with Cabaret & Canvas

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Melburnians seeking a unique and vibrant Friday night experience need look no further than The Smith’s new Creative Series. Starting with the captivating event “Cabaret & Canvas” on August 9th, guests are invited to indulge in an evening of artistic expression, entertainment, and indulgence. An artistic affair like no other On select Fridays throughout August and September, The Smith will host a series of enchanting events that combine the allure of cabaret with the creativity of life drawing. Featuring talented cabaret models such as Evana De Lune and Nellie Noble, guests will have the opportunity to channel their inner artist under the guidance of an expert life drawing mentor. All sketching materials will be provided, ensuring that attendees can fully immerse themselves in the creative process. A feast for the senses In addition to the artistic offerings, guests can expect a sensory feast with a baby cocktail upon arrival, delectable sharing platters, and a generous two-hour selection of bottomless drinks. From reds, whites, rosé, and sparkling wines to house lager, cider, and non-alcoholic options, there is something to suit every palate and preference. Setting the Stage for Creativity The venue for Cabaret & Canvas, The Smith’s stunning Atrium, has undergone a captivating transformation. Adorned with striking red florals that drape from the ceiling, create archways, and adorn tables, the space exudes a burlesque-style ambiance. Guests are sure to find the perfect photo opportunity amidst this lavish floral backdrop. Event details: Embrace your artistic side The Smith’s Creative Series promises an array of artistic experiences beyond… Read More

NGV Melbourne brings a new take to Pharaoh exhibition

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Every Friday night, a rotating program of performance residencies will surprise and delight with unique musical experiences in the Great Hall. Inspired by the Pharaoh exhibition, each week audiences will be taken on a different musical journey, with a selection of music and performances, from jazz to cabaret, to classical, funk and blues.

‘The unsaid says a lot’ campaign making Trans visible

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The Victorian Government is proud to announce the launch of The Unsaid Says a Lot, a groundbreaking campaign aimed at raising public awareness about the everyday discrimination faced by trans and gender diverse communities and driving systemic change. This campaign is the first government-led initiative of its kind in Australia and is a crucial part of Pride in our Future: Victoria’s LGBTIQA+ strategy 2022-32, which is dedicated to promoting equality and inclusivity for LGBTQIA+ communities across the state. The campaign highlights the often overlooked, non-verbal cues and microaggressions that contribute to a culture of discrimination and exclusion for LGBTQIA+ communities and takes place alongside the blatant physical expressions of discrimination and reduced opportunities that these communities endure. The campaign is supported by research revealing that discrimination, stigma, and unequal treatment are commonplace for trans and gender diverse Victorians. Findings from a national survey by La Trobe University show that more than three in four trans and gender diverse people were treated unfairly because of their gender identity in the preceding 12 months. This discrimination contributes to higher rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide among LGBTIQA+ people compared to the general population. Leveraging a series of creative campaign materials such as videos, posters, social media initiatives, and community engagement activities designed to foster empathy and inclusivity, the campaign aims to emphasise the significant impact that seemingly minor moments can have on the well-being and mental health of trans and gender diverse individuals. Creative inclusive communications specialist agency Think HQ led the co-design approach, which included input… Read More