Category: MELBOURNE

TarraWarra Museum of Art explores the best in contemporary art

art gallery museum PeterAtkins SUPERsystems

The TarraWarra Museum of Art is on the verge of captivating art enthusiasts with three concurrent exhibitions that shine a light on the intricate dance between contemporary art and modernist principles. Set to open from 23 March to 14 July 2024, these exhibitions feature the innovative works of Melbourne-based artists Peter Atkins and Dana Harris, alongside a groundbreaking survey of Clement Meadmore’s industrial designs. Titled SUPERsystems, Atkins and Harris’s exhibition is a testament to the vibrant dialogue between new artistic visions and the foundational elements of modernism. Atkins’s readymade abstraction brings everyday imagery into the realm of high art, redefining American designer Maurice Binder’s iconic title sequence for the film Dr. No into 92 distinct abstract paintings. Harris, on the other hand, offers fancywork, a series of hand-embroidered panels that capture the desolation and beauty of Melbourne’s CBD during the COVID-19 lockdowns. Her work meticulously explores the city’s altered rhythms through intricate patterns, supported by Creative Australia. Parallelly, The Industrial Design of Clement Meadmore: The Harris/Atkins Collection grants a comprehensive look at Meadmore’s trailblazing modernist designs, curated meticulously over two and a half decades by Atkins and Harris. This exhibition encapsulates Meadmore’s innovative manipulation of basic materials into functional, yet beautifully minimal designs. Complementing these exhibitions, Systems and Structures draws from TarraWarra’s own collection to spotlight Australian artists who embody the principles of pattern, geometry, and repetition. This show underscores the common threads that link contemporary artistic practices back to the legacies of modernism. Curator Anthony Fitzpatrick regards these exhibitions as a unique opportunity to… Read More

Daniel Ricciardo drives a Ford SuperVan for the F1 Grand Prix

Daniel Ricciardo driver

In a thrilling display of innovation and speed, the Formula 1 Rolex Australian Grand Prix 2024 commenced in Melbourne on Thursday, 21 March 2024, with Ford Australia taking centre stage. The event was electrified by the Ford Performance SuperVan 4.2, a record-breaking, all-electric van as it tore through the Albert Park Circuit under the expert control of Visa Cash App Racing Bulls F1 Driver, Daniel Ricciardo. This marked a significant moment as Ricciardo expertly handled the 2,000hp beast, showcasing its capabilities on one of Australia’s most challenging race tracks. The SuperVan 4.2, a highlight of Ford Performance’s EV Demonstrator Program, has been buzzing through Australian motorsport events for the past month, leaving its mark with an unparalleled performance at Bathurst’s Mount Panorama and the Adelaide Motorsport Festival. Its astonishing lap at Bathurst, clocking in at 1:56.3247, set records as the fastest lap by a closed-wheel vehicle, an electric vehicle, and a commercial vehicle. This feat is especially noteworthy considering the SuperVan 4.2, based on the Ford E-Transit, significantly deviates from traditional racing vehicles. Ford Performance’s initiative with the SuperVan 4.2 in Australia goes beyond mere spectacle; it spearheads the development and testing of technologies destined for future road cars. Motorsport’s rigours provide the perfect testbed for new parts and technology, facilitating their refinement for eventual consumer use. The program also aligns with Australia’s high demand for performance cars, allowing Ford to meet and surpass Australian expectations with their future electric vehicles.

Bianchetto Bar Lights Up Kew’s Nightlife

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Kew’s nightlife just received a significant upgrade with the opening of Bianchetto Bar, an elegant cocktail lounge designed to complement the existing Mister Bianco space. The much-anticipated venture by Owner Joe Vargetto aims to bring the community together for a sophisticated drinking experience like no other. Located adjacent to the popular Mister Bianco restaurant, which made its debut late last year, Bianchetto creates a seamless blend of dining and drinking on the ground floor, with the added allure of La Sala function spaces upstairs. Bianchetto sets itself apart with an intimate atmosphere, featuring sexy booths, muted lighting, and a classy yet welcoming vibe. This chic cocktail bar has been crafted as the perfect accompaniment to Mister Bianco, offering a destination where locals can meet, mingle, and relish in a meticulously crafted cocktail menu. The brainchild behind these innovative drinks is award-winning bartender Orlando Marzo, founder of Drinks by Loro, who brings to the table creations like the Sicilian Sour, Bellini, and a distinctive Bergamot Negroni. A highlight of the Bianchetto experience is the Signature Americano Al Tavolo, a show-stopping trolley service that serves your drink right at the table, ensuring a memorable and bespoke experience. Alongside the innovative cocktails, Bianchetto also features a select range of local and Italian wines and beers, ensuring there’s something to suit every palate. The bar doesn’t stop at drinks; an enticing seasonal bar menu by Joe Vargetto and his team complements the beverage offerings. From ‘Nduja-filled Olives Ascolana to a hot-pressed Pane e Mortadella “Scaccia” using locally sourced mortadella,… Read More

New orchestral series for Australia: Baroque Kaleidoscope

orchestra Vivaldi Performance foto Keith Saunders

The Australian Brandenburg Orchestra (ABO), a beacon of Australia’s early music scene, is set to awe audiences with its upcoming Baroque Kaleidoscope concert series. Scheduled to unfold at Sydney’s illustrious City Recital Hall from 3 – 8 May, before gracing Melbourne Recital Centre from 9 – 12 May, these performances are a testament to the Orchestra’s dedication to both historical authenticity and innovative musical expression. At the heart of this series lies a meticulously chosen repertoire featuring immortal works by Vivaldi, Telemann, Handel, and their distinguished contemporaries. In what promises to be a transcendent homage to the Baroque period, the ABO ventures back to its origins. The concert series aims to spotlight the fervour and extraordinary adeptness of Brandenburg’s principal musicians. Attendees can look forward to renditions of widely celebrated compositions, including Handel’s lively “The Arrival of the Queen of Sheba,” and a captivating concerto for two violins from Vivaldi’s acclaimed L’estro Armonico. The stage will be graced by luminaries such as Shaun Lee-Chen, the internationally acclaimed Concertmaster whose renditions as a soloist have garnered widespread admiration, notably in last year’s Gloria & The Four Seasons. Equally distinguished are Principal Second Baroque Violin Ben Dollman and Principal Baroque Flute Melissa Farrow, each having enriched the Brandenburg ensemble with over two decades of expertise. Adding to the ensemble’s distinguished lineup, Adam Masters, recently coronated as Principal Baroque Oboe, will deliver a special performance of an Albinoni concerto. Masters’ unconventional path to music, transitioning from a decade-long career in medicine to pursuing his passion in Baroque oboe… Read More

Pidapipo’s creations for Melbourne Food & Wine Festival 2024

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As we step into the month of March, the excitement around the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival (MFWF) continues to soar, and there’s no shortage of remarkable events to captivate your taste buds. If you’re looking to add a dash of thrill to your MFWF experience, the Pidapipo collaboration promises a fusion of savoury and sweet flavors that will leave you craving for more! A Delectable Fusion: Salty Sweet Pidapipo, known for its innovative and delectable gelato creations, has joined forces with expert chef and restaurateur Dan Hong to introduce “Salty Sweet” as a captivating addition to this year’s MFWF lineup. This extraordinary collaboration brings together the expertise of Pidapipo and the culinary ingenuity of Dan Hong to offer an unprecedented culinary journey. Gelato Creations Beyond Imagination From the 16th of March throughout the festival, indulge in three unique and specially crafted gelato flavors exclusively available at Pidapipo stores. The one-of-a-kind creations include: Unforgettable Launch Party March 16th marks the much-anticipated launch day, where the Fitzroy Laboratorio will host an unforgettable party featuring Asian-inspired sweet and savoury treats with a Pidapipo twist, meticulously curated and tested by Dan Hong himself, alongside Pidapipo’s co-founder Lisa Valmorbida. Exclusive event-only dishes at this celebration include: This one-of-a-kind collaboration promises an unmatched culinary experience, blending the artistry of gelato with the culinary brilliance of Dan Hong, ensuring an unforgettable journey of flavors and creativity. For those seeking an adventure for the senses, the Salty Sweet collaboration is a must-visit, offering an exclusive opportunity to savor the unexpected and celebrate… Read More

South Melbourne restaurant Lucia does it well

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From the team behind suburban gems Riserva, Baia Di Vino, and San Lorenzo comes a new dining destination in Melbourne’s inner south. Lucia, a Mediterranean restaurant and wine bar located at the base of Eleven Eastern Road, South Melbourne, promises to redefine the traditional European dining experience. Co-owners Frank Ciorciari and Anthony Silvestre have set out to bring the same much-loved style of warm, old-school hospitality as their other venues, to the local area. Elevated Design and Ambiance Brought to life by Melbourne architecture practice Rothelowman and Melbourne/New York-based branding studio Blurr Bureau, Lucia draws inspiration from European heritage and the Renaissance period. The light-filled dining room is exquisitely designed, featuring earthy tones of maroon and moss green, floor-to-ceiling windows, banquette seating, marble tops with brass detailing, and mood-lighting, all contributing to an ambiance that accentuates the space’s European feel. The Culinary Experience Lucia follows the same ethos of the owner’s other venues through simple, well-executed food complemented by an iconic wine list. Head Chef Jordan Clavaron, who honed his skills under his father, a Michelin Star chef, curates a masterfully simple Mediterranean menu, characterized by signature recipes with seasonality at its core. The menu draws inspiration from Clavaron’s travels around France, Italy, and Spain, offering a seamless transition from day to night with share plates, mains, and larger share plates, all crafted with a Mediterranean flare. An Unparalleled Wine Selection Heading the expansive 400-bottle list is Head Sommelier Simone Garro, aiming to delight diners with some of the world’s most iconic wines, designed to… Read More

Yakimono’s night of sake appreciation

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Get ready for an extraordinary evening as Yakimono proudly presents the return of the much-anticipated Sake-Mono event! After the overwhelming success of last year’s sell-out extravaganza, we’re thrilled to announce that this exclusive experience is back – for one night only! Mark your calendars for Tuesday, April 9th, as Yakimono teams up once again with Yukino Ochiai, Australia’s esteemed certified sake expert and Director of Deja Vu Sake. As the country’s first female Sake Samurai and WSET certified Level 3 Japanese Sake Educator, Ochiai-san brings unparalleled expertise to guide guests through an enchanting exploration of Japanese sake. Prepare to be captivated as Ochiai-san expertly curates a tasting journey featuring extraordinary pours from renowned sake producers such as Tsukinokatsura, Kenbishi, Dewazakura, and more. These premium drops are rarely found in Australia, making this event an exclusive opportunity to savor the finest offerings from the world of Japanese sake. Upon arrival, guests will be welcomed with a signature sake cocktail, setting the stage for an evening of pure delight. Executive Chef Daniel Wilson has artfully crafted a menu of vibrant Japanese delicacies, meticulously paired with each pour. From the tantalizing Tuna Tartare Tempura and succulent BBQ King Salmon to the divine Yuzu Bombe Alaska for dessert, every dish promises to be a symphony of flavors. With tickets priced at $99 per person and limited spots available (last year’s edition sold out in a matter of days), we urge you to secure your place now to avoid missing out on this extraordinary event. Event Details: Don’t miss out… Read More

New YAWYE juice bar in Melbourne

Yawye smoothies

Just a few months after opening its first store on Little Collins Street in Melbourne’s CBD, YAWYE is popping up in South Yarra, with a second location at the base of Goldfields House at 627 Chapel Street. Making waves in the health food space and on social media, YAWYE is taking Melbourne by storm one swirly smoothie at a time. Located on the ground floor of Goldfields House, where Daly St meets Chapel St, YAWYE’s newest home has a striking design, developed by Melbourne-based studio Rodeo Rodeo, which features a spacey blue fit out made from recycled sea plastics. Serving the eye-catching, ingredient-packed smoothies and acai bowls YAWYE has quickly become known for, the menu has a few exciting updates too. The crowd-favourite ‘Cosmic Coffee’ caffeine smoothie can now be upgraded to a double shot of coffee free of charge. Smoothies can also be customised by taking out or adding ingredients to suit your tastes, such as adding unflavoured protein powder for $2. Fans can also order all their usual favourites, including YAWYE’s signature ‘Blue Lagoon’ smoothie featuring Blue Majik spirulina and marine collagen powder, or the soft-serve acai bowls with any combination of toppings from fresh fruit to housemade peanut butter. “We’re so excited to bring YAWYE to South Yarra,” says Chef and Food Consultant Sarah Watson. “Our flavours are fun, with an element of surprise. Whether you’re looking for a protein-rich post-workout snack or an energy booster in your work break, we’ve designed the menu so that it caters to all different needs.”… Read More

Melbourne city dinner options if you’re seeing Wicked

Wicked theatre food

The Westin Melbourne is excited to announce its partnership with the internationally acclaimed Broadway musical WICKED, bringing the magic of musical theatre into the heart of Melbourne’s CBD. From March 2 through to June, an array of wonderfully WICKED-themed experiences will be on offer for guests and theatregoers, including bespoke accommodation packages, a decadent high tea, and a new cocktail menu of enchanting concoctions – sure to be ‘pop-u-lar’ with fans. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Wicked Musical Melbourne (@wickedmusicalmelb) Executive Chef, Apoorva Kunte shares, “Creating this menu has been a lot of fun and the friendship between WICKED’s main characters, Elphaba and Glinda, has been the inspiration to bring it to life. Using local and sustainable produce, I’ve paired ingredients that share a camaraderie and complement each other when served together, yet hold its own distinct characteristics and identities, just like the main leads. The show’s bright and vibrant colours also lead the high tea, with the iconic WICKED green taking centre stage”. Fans will get a fix of wicked flavours in the enchanting WICKED High Tea ($85 per person), sure to charm diners with every bite. Available daily from 11 – 5.30pm, the high tea serves up a selection of sweet and savoury treats, inspired by the whimsical world of Oz, accompanied by an Elphaba Fizz cocktail. Savoury items will include: A decadent assortment of sweets will follow, such as: Just a hop, skip, and a jump away from WICKED’s Melbourne home, the Regent Theatre, guests can turn a… Read More

Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show in 2024

Melbourne flower garden

I’m just touching base as the world-renowned Melbourne International Flower & Garden Show opens its doors next Wednesday, March 20th. With a jam-packed five-day program from Wednesday, March 20th until Sunday, March 24th, there’ll be something for every flower-lover and plant connoisseur. Key favourites such as the Show Gardens Competition and High Tea sessions return alongside exciting new activities including the inaugural Twilight Tapas to accompany Friday night’s ever-popular Gardens by Twilight. Dozens of breathtaking horticultural designs will ignite visitors’ senses over the program, accented by enchanting works from the country’s (and world’s) best garden and floral experts.Hailing from Sweden, newcomers to the Show Garden competition, Annika Zetterman and Kajsa Bjorne, will bring their international flair alongside returning global veteran designers Peter Donegan from Ireland and Koji Ninomiya from Japan. Closer to home, in collaboration with the Wurundjeri Council, attendees are invited into the Indigenous Show Garden for an immersive experience that reflects the rich connection between the land and its custodians.Please find media release linked HERE and event imagery from the incredible 2023 show linked HERE.EVENT DETAILS Location: Royal Exhibition Building and Carlton GardensTickets: On sale now from melbflowershow.com.auDates & Times:Wednesday 20th March: 9:00am – 5:00pmThursday 21st March: 9:00am – 5:00pmFriday 22nd March (Gardens by Twilight): 9:00am – 9:00pmSaturday 23rd March: 9:00am – 5:00pmSunday 24th March: 9:00am – 5:00pm