Category: MELBOURNE

Valentine’s Day Gift Guide: fun, flirty and functional

valentines day gift guide

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Updated: 08/02/2024

The most un-hallowed (but definitely most Hallmarked) day is almost upon us… Valentine’s Day! Wondering what to get your special someone and drawing blanks? We’ve got you covered! FUN GIFTS Aussie winemakers Doom Juice have teamed up with flower artists Acid Flwrs to create the mother of all fancy shiraz bottles, Acid Doom. Only 66 have been produced and this collectors item is only available until sold out for $99. Missed out? You can score their ~lovely~ bundle for the same price. Collect experiences not things and take your boo to the movies. Laneway Cinema in The Rocks is screening romcom hit 50 First Dates for FREE at 7pm on Feb 14th, and Mov’in Bed, Barangaroo’s first beach cinema, is hosting special Valentine’s Day romantic movie screenings all month, tickets are available from $12. You know what’s fun? Making pink gin cocktails, or just straight up enjoying a pink gin spritz on the balcony. We’re loving Malfy Gin Rosa. Make it yours for $74.99 (or less if you’re a Dan’s Member!) FLIRTY GIFTS Sassy cookies taste good mentally and in your mouth! Sweet Mickie do a range of cookies that ship Australia-wide featuring sweet, or sexy, messages starting from $34.95. This may not be a family friendly website but we can’t give you specific recs, to each their own and all that BUT Love Honey stocks a wide range of adult toys, gadgets and goodies to set the spicy mood. Games are really having a moment, so why not design your own or find an… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, FEATURES, GIFT GUIDE, MELBOURNE, SYDNEY

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West Melbourne’s best food festival

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Posted: 26/01/2024

Get ready, foodies and music lovers! The much awaited, premier food and music festival in Melbourne’s West – Flavour Fest – is back and promises to be more scrumptious and entertaining than ever before. The festival will take centre stage on Saturday, 2 March, from 12pm to 9pm. A celebration of community, culture, and cuisine, this spectacular event is proudly presented by Melton City Council and Woodlea. It offers a delightful mix of mouth-watering bites from Victoria’s most popular food trucks, thrilling kids activities and a line-up of music artists that promise an electrifying performance that will have you dancing into the sunset. The main stage will come alive from 3pm onwards with sweet sounds from artists including the Pierce Brothers, Steph Strings, Kitschen Boy, Mitch Santiago, and D’Arcy Spiller. But before the music commences, the afternoon is dedicated to tantalising your taste buds. Savour the flavours from some of Melbourne’s best food trucks, including Big Boy BBQ, Hoy Pinoy, 400 Gradi, and many more. But it’s not only about the savoury delights. The ‘Sweet Life’ zone is specifically designed for the sweet-toothed, offering a variety of desserts from cakes to greek doughnuts and gelato. And for those over 18, a visit to Flavour Fest’s dedicated Beer Garden is a must. Here you’ll find local boutique brewers, wine distillers and artisan spirits from Melbourne’s West, including the likes of ReWine, Wonki, and The Prosecco Van. Flavour Fest is also a family-friendly event. The ‘Play Zone’ will feature a sustainability-focused immersive art experience by the Slow… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, MELBOURNE

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New modern Asian in South Yarra Melbourne

Bar Darling restaurant

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Updated: 26/01/2024

South Yarra is about to welcome a new culinary gem into its vibrant Toorak Road dining precinct. Token, a gastronomic venture by the esteemed Darling Group, is set to officially open its neon-lit, 150-seat dining space on the 23rd January 2024. Infusing the Japanese Izakaya concept with modern sophistication, Token is designed to navigate diners through a seamless culinary journey from day to evening. The venue itself personifies casual dining with a touch of decadence, featuring an open bar, a central kitchen, and a curated raw bar where sashimi and temaki are made on demand. “We’ve crafted a menu that entices a culturally curious audience with beautiful and fresh Japanese-inspired dishes,” remarks Chef Ashly Hicks, one of the creative minds behind Token’s meticulously curated menu. The restaurant has two focal points – the Liquid & Raw and the Charred & Flamed. While the former pays homage to nature’s light and fluid attributes with a cocktail bar and raw offerings, the latter explores darker, textured, and sensory facets, emanating from the open-fired kitchen. The venue features a custom-made Binchotan yakitori grill and a coal-fired oven, promising a visual spectacle for patrons. Token’s Head Chef Jun Sun, a Nobu and Ichi Ni Izakaya veteran, will bring these flame-kissed Asian fusion creations to life. Token’s menu is a celebration of umami flavours, from spicy delicacies to skewered and chargrilled delights. Standout dishes include Tempura Enoki Mushroom with Kombu Seasoning, Twice-Cooked Pork Belly Chashu Kushiyaki, and “Steak Frites” Wagyu with Japanese Pepper Sauce served alongside Token Fries. Token is… Read More

Category: CITIES, ASIAN FOOD, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, MELBOURNE

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Valentine’s Day at Stokehouse Melbourne

Lobster

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Posted: 26/01/2024

This Valentine’s Day, embark on a gastronomic journey that will leave you and your loved one with unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a fan of fresh, succulent seafood or you prefer a delightful Mediterranean feast, Stokehouse and Stokehouse Pasta & Bar at St Kilda have you covered. For just $200 per person, Stokehouse offers a four-course menu meticulously curated by Executive Chef Jason Staudt. Showcasing Australia’s finest seafood and seasonal produce, this menu features delectable delights such as a fig tart with oregano and buffalo curd, Yellowfin tuna bite with compressed melon and pickled rind, and Stokehouse’s iconic seafood platter. For those wanting to bring a touch of luxury to their dining experience, an additional whole Victorian Lobster is available, served with Ancho chilli butter, pickled biquinho chilli, steamed buns, and thick-cut chips for $190. Crafted for two, this show-stopping dish is perfect for those wanting to turn up the romance this Valentine’s Day. The options downstairs at Stokehouse Pasta & Bar are equally enticing. For $120 per person, enjoy a four-course Mediterranean feast and a welcome drink. Kick off your exquisite dining experience with a refreshing glass of King Valley Rosé Prosecco, followed by an array of antipasti including white anchovy and olive gilda’s and bresola with oregano may gnoccho frito. For mains, make your pick between dry aged club steak with salsa verde and garlic or locally sourced John Dory with peperonata. And to top it all off, Pastry Chef Ash Smith has concocted a heavenly Ferrero Rocher and red velvet cake parfait to… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, FEATURES, FOOD & DRINK, MELBOURNE

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Unforgettable Valentine’s Day events around Melbourne

Valentine's Day dinner

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Posted: 24/01/2024

Whoever you’re marking February 14th with this year, true romance is guaranteed across Chris Lucas’ eight Melbourne venues. From tableside flowers and fiery fun to summer strawberry pavlova and the finest champagne, wooing your loved one has never been easier. Just make the booking and leave the rest up to the team at Lucas Restaurants. Yakimono: Ignite the Flames of Love Yakimono is bringing the fire to Valentine’s Day with an exclusive flame-kissed Setto menu for $110pp, which includes a cheeky cocktail to kick things off. Expect a mix of classics and special additions to share against the backdrop of the neon-lit dining room. Think fresh, flavorful kingfish sashimi; umami negi chicken skewers; dynamite tuna hako with dragon’s fire sauce and much more. The sparks will be flying — and we don’t just mean from the kitchen. What’s more, Yakimono is teaming up with the flower maestros at Bush, transforming its downstairs foyer into a pop-up florist for one day only. Drop by from 10am to 7pm on 14 February to pick up some stunning seasonal blooms, including banksia stems from $25 a pop and lush bouquets from $85. Get in quick to reserve your February 14 booking now Society Dining Room: A Feast for All the Senses A spectacular setting for any romantic rendezvous, with exceptional Euro-accented fare to match, Society is the perfect choice for a truly memorable Valentine’s Day. Visit the esteemed Dining Room for an exclusive $245pp Chef’s Menu, set to include a very special edition of Society’s famed dessert trolley…. Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, FEATURES, MELBOURNE

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Midsumma Festival 2024 at Gasworks Arts Park

Midsumma cabaret

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Posted: 20/01/2024

Gasworks Arts Park in Melbourne is gearing up for an extraordinary summer, featuring an impressive array of circus performances as part of Midsumma Festival 2024. This cherished creative hub will host two of the festival’s most anticipated shows: “Hot Summer Nights!” and “Rouge”. “Gasworks Arts Park is the place to go for live contemporary circus this Midsumma” says Tamara Jungwirth, CEO of Gasworks Arts Park. “Bring some friends to enjoy an adults-only night out of music, skill, glamour and pure athletic spectacle. Melbourne really knows how to do modern circus and this Midsumma we invite you to enjoy two cabaret shows that will put the sizzle into summer”. Midsumma Festival is an annual celebration of queer arts and cultural events, with a three-week long program that includes visual arts, theatre, cabaret, film, and live performances. Midsumma is not just an arts festival, it’s a celebration of cultural diversity and the ongoing pursuit of social equity. Gasworks’ Summer Circus package offers more fun for less. Save $20 when you book full price tickets for both “Hot Summer Nights!” and “Rouge”. Hot Summer Nights! “Hot Summer Nights!” returns this year with all new acts. The show offers a night of neon lights, incredible vocals, and mind-boggling feats of strength and skill. The show features a hand-picked cast of Australia’s top circus performers, hosted by the multi award winning cabaret star Tash York. Venue: Gasworks Arts Park, 21 Graham Street, Albert Park Vic, 3206 Date: 23 January–3 February 2024 Time: 23-27 Jan: 7pm–8pm, 30 Jan-3 Feb: 9pm-10pm, 3… Read More

Category: CITIES, LGBTIQ, LIFESTYLE, MELBOURNE

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Johnny’s Green Room rooftop in Melbourne

JGR Jan2024 AriannaLeggiero 379 scaled

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Updated: 17/01/2024

Johnny’s Green Room has recently reopened its doors, unveiling a stunning transformation that exudes Tuscan terrace vibes. This beloved rooftop watering hole, located at the corner of Lygon and Faraday Streets, has undergone a complete makeover under the guidance of award-winning designer Dion Hall. With a semi-retractable roof, patrons can now enjoy the captivating atmosphere of Johnny’s Green Room throughout the year. The venue’s new design showcases upgraded bar and kitchen facilities, as well as new bathrooms and furniture. The seating capacity has also been expanded to accommodate up to 260 guests. Drawing inspiration from the warmth and allure of Italian nuances, the venue boasts a palette of warm tones and incorporates materials such as Douglas Fir timber, terracotta tiles, tiled mosaic elements, and milled zinc. The result is a space that seamlessly blends timeless elegance with a vibrant and inviting ambiance. In addition to the physical transformation, Johnny’s Green Room has also undergone a brand refresh, masterfully executed by local branding studio Projects of Imagination. The iconic Johnny’s wolf symbol has been reimagined as a more nostalgic icon, while a secondary logo has been introduced to complement the original. The bar staff will sport custom-designed white waiter jackets, adding a touch of classic Italian style to the venue. When it comes to the culinary offerings, Johnny’s Green Room has enlisted the expertise of renowned chef and author Karen Martini as the Culinary Director. With a focus on pizza and a refreshed take on Mediterranean flavors, the menu features a delightful selection of Italian-style share… Read More

Category: CITIES, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, MELBOURNE

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YAWYE new smoothie bar in Melbourne

Smoothie Yawye Melbourne

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Updated: 17/01/2024

Melbourne’s Central Business District welcomes a new player to its bustling health food scene. ‘YAWYE’, located at 181 Little Collins St, is set to redefine smoothies and acai bowls, merging health benefits with unparalleled taste. YAWYE, Your Next Stop for Nourishment YAWYE stands out with a variety of unique, nutrient-packed smoothies designed meticulously by the acclaimed Chef and Food Consultant, Sarah Watson. Sarah brings her considerable expertise from working as a private chef for tennis superstar Roger Federer and developing recipes for wellness app Centr, founded by actor Chris Hemsworth. At YAWYE, Sarah’s unique concoctions aim to nourish the body while satisfying the taste buds, “We’re not preaching an agenda here, we’re offering delicious, nourishing smoothies and acai bowls that have the added bonus of being healthy and nutritious,” Sarah explains. The Menu, Beyond Delicious Each smoothie at YAWYE, served in clear 450ml PET cups, boasts up to twelve ingredients that cater to various health benefits, from boosting immunity to promoting gut health. The menu offers eight unique blends. The ‘Fountain of Youth’ is a unique take on a green smoothie, featuring matcha powder and marine collagen powder for skin benefits. The ‘Energiser’ is a caffeine-packed smoothie with espresso, banana, almond butter, and cacao powder, perfect for a morning boost. Vibrant Acai Bowls and Eye-Catching Branding In addition to smoothies, YAWYE offers a selection of acai bowls made with high-quality acai berry powder. Customers can customise their bowls with various toppings, from fresh fruits to homemade peanut butter and chocolate hazelnut spread. The brand’s identity,… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, MELBOURNE

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Best Greek food at Australian Open

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Updated: 17/01/2024

Melbourne’s beloved Greek restaurant, Stalactites, is back at the Australian Open, partnering once again with Greek tennis player Stefanos Tsitsipas. This year, they are serving up a special menu that features Stalactites’ iconic dishes with a tennis twist, delighting all tennis enthusiasts. “This marks our fourth consecutive year collaborating with Stefanos Tsitsipas to celebrate the Australian Open. It’s always a joyous occasion where we get to combine our passion for Greek cuisine and the electrifying atmosphere of the tournament,” says Nicole Papasavas, owner of Stalactites. A Menu That Serves Up Winning Flavors Located at the Grand Slam Oval, the Stalactites pop-up will be serving a lineup of three delicious souvlaki and Greek dishes throughout the competition. Tennis fans can indulge in signature items such as ‘Stef’s Lamb Slam’, a souvlaki with roasted lamb shoulder giros, lettuce, tomato, onions, crumbled feta, parsley, hot chips, and Stalactites’ signature tzatziki, wrapped in warm pita bread. If chicken is your souvlaki filling of choice, ‘Chicken Kicker’ swaps out the lamb for marinated chicken gyros and spicy chili mayo. For those who are torn, the ‘Mixed Doubles’ souvlaki combines chicken and lamb for a delicious combo. Other delectable offerings include ‘The Net Game’ – a tasty duo of fried calamari and fries seasoned with Greek lemon oregano. Also not to be missed is Stalactites’ signature Greek oregano & feta fries, and a refreshing Greek garden salad – a staple to any Greek menu. A Partnership with Purpose “Stalactites has always had a strong place in my heart, serving the food… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, MELBOURNE

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