Category: MELBOURNE

Unleash your inner rebel at the Australian Tattoo Expo Melbourne 2023

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Posted: 22/11/2023

Get ready to dive into a world of vibrant colours, bold designs, and unbridled creativity as the Australian Tattoo Expo rolls into town! Starting from December 1-3, 2023, Melbourne will transform into a buzzing hive of artistic talent, featuring 400+ masterful tattoo artists gathered under one roof12. Daring and Diverse Tattoo Experiences Fancy leaving your ink destiny to fate? Then step right up to the Dr Pickles Tattoo Glory Hole! Much like the semi-mythical activity that lends this booth its name, you’ll slide your arm through a slot in the wall and place your faith in the skilled hands of a mystery tattoo artist. You’ll leave the expo with a fresh tattoo and a thrilling tale to regale your friends with1. And that’s not all! Celebrity tattoo artist Lauren Winzer will be in attendance, offering free walk-up flash tattoos all weekend long1. With a client list boasting Hollywood heavyweights like Post Malone, Sophie Turner, Miley Cyrus, Toni Collette, Cody Smith, and Joe Jonas, you’ll be in illustrious company! More Than Just Tattoos But the Australian Tattoo Expo isn’t just about tattoos. The event boasts a slew of exclusively curated exhibitors and entertainment options34. Fancy some dental bling? Resident exhibitor The Cheshire’s Grin will be crafting real gold grills and teeth all weekend long1. Or perhaps you’re intrigued by body modification? Professional body piercers will be on-site, ready to enhance your body art with a new addition1. If getting tattooed isn’t your thing, fret not. Flux Entertainment will light up the main stage with breathtaking fire… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, MELBOURNE

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A fresh taste of Vietnam at St. Cloud Eating House

St Cloud KDPO 6th October GRIFFIN SIMM Finals 33 Vietnamese asian food chopsticks

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Posted: 16/11/2023

This month, the renowned St. Cloud Eating House in Hawthorn East breathes new life into its culinary offering. The restaurant, located at 644 Burwood Road, is set to tantalise tastebuds with an explosion of Vietnamese flavours, thanks to celebrated chef Jerry Mai. Since its inception in 2015, St. Cloud Eating House, under the stewardship of hospitality veteran James Klapanis, has maintained its commitment to serving ferociously fresh Vietnamese cuisine to the denizens of Melbourne. The exciting and vibrant menu revamp is spearheaded by none other than the remarkable Jerry Mai, known for her culinary masterpieces at Pho Nom, Annam, and Bia Hoi Beer Hall. Mai’s flair for Vietnamese cuisine is widely acclaimed, and she now brings her unique touch to the St. Cloud Eating House. The restaurant’s new culinary journey is further bolstered by the recent collaboration between Klapanis and Angie Giannakodakis, stalwarts of the Melbourne hospitality scene. This partnership brings a renewed focus on generosity – striving to put the hospitality back in hospitality, as Giannakodakis puts it. St. Cloud’s refreshed food ethos is all about sharing and savouring every bite. Jerry Mai has expertly curated a menu that balances familiar Vietnamese flavours with unexpected new elements. Diners can expect a tantalising array of small plates, from grilled scallops with wild onion butter and nuoc mam to sticky lamb ribs with tamarind caramel. A highlight includes an irresistible beef cheek green curry— a testament to Mai’s Thai culinary influences. For those with a sweet tooth, the restaurant offers a duo of indulgent desserts —… Read More

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

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Experience the New Era of Luxury at Hotel Sorrento

Hotel Sorrento room

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Posted: 06/11/2023

Beginning December 2023, a new chapter unfolds in the rich history of the iconic Hotel Sorrento. Unveiling its most significant transformation yet, the hotel is set to amaze with a host of luxurious features, making it the must-visit destination on the Mornington Peninsula. The third-generation family business, run by the Pitt family, has always been a welcoming beacon for visitors, and this expansion is no different. After more than 150 years of service, Hotel Sorrento will soon feature a breathtaking 30-metre pool, terrace, thirteen brand new luxury accommodation suites, a day spa, and wellness facilities. This development is the realisation of the Pitt family’s vision, marking a crucial milestone in the hotel’s illustrious journey. Designed by Six Degrees Architecture and landscaped by Jack Merlo, the new additions to the hotel draw inspiration from the ocean and peninsula landscape, honouring the building’s natural and architectural beauty. The result? A guest experience reminiscent of a Mediterranean holiday, a mere 90-minute drive from Melbourne. Starting at $550 per night, the 13 new Sunset Suites are a testament to luxury. Inspired by the hotel’s natural surroundings, the suites integrate raw materials like limestone, travertine, and timber. Expansive windows in each suite afford stunning views of the landscape, immersing guests in tranquillity and nature. The suites feature custom-designed Jardan furniture and Hunter Lab amenities, creating a warm, welcoming space for guests. Relax and unwind in outdoor marble baths, the perfect way to end a busy day. The new suites beautifully complement the recently refurbished rooms, all boasting Jardan furniture and… Read More

Category: CITIES, AUSTRALIA, LIFESTYLE, MELBOURNE, TRAVEL

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

Vue de monde dining room Jason Loucas

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Posted: 06/11/2023

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

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

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

Spice Temple crab noodles

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Posted: 06/11/2023

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

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

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All about Miss Saigon in Melbourne – see it now

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

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Posted: 04/11/2023

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

Category: CITIES, ARTS & CULTURE, LIFESTYLE, MELBOURNE, THEATRE

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Melbourne’s best pubs and restaurants for Christmas Day dining

The Duke of Wellington Melbourne pub

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Updated: 02/11/2023

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

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

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What to expect at LANDMARK by Lexus at Melbourne Cup Carnival

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Posted: 01/11/2023

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

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, MELBOURNE

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

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Posted: 31/10/2023

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

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, MELBOURNE

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Savour the Delights: East Malvern Food and Wine Festival 2023

EAST MALVERN FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL HERO SHOTS 12

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Posted: 16/10/2023

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

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

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