Category: AUSTRALIAN FOOD

What to drink – and where – this March in Melbourne

There’s a new rosé in town, and it’s bringing the perfect blend of style, flavour, and celebration to Melbourne this March. Enchanté Rosé, the latest creation from St Hugo Wines and Formula 1 superstar Daniel Ricciardo, is making waves with its bold, unforgettable debut. Vibrant, playful, and seriously magnetic, this uniquely Australian rosé has timed its launch to perfection by partnering with the Formula 1 Grand Prix (AUSGP) and hosting an exclusive activation at Melbourne’s iconic Hotel Nacional. A Grand Entrance on the F1 Stage Enchanté Rosé is making its mark where the energy is unmatched—the Formula 1 Grand Prix. Nestled in a major activation spot in the General Admission area, this rosé is more than just a drink; it’s a lifestyle. Capturing the magnetic vibes of F1 mania, the Enchanté lifestyle invites racegoers to sip, socialise, and celebrate in true Ricciardo fashion. Whether you’re cheering from the sidelines or soaking up the atmosphere, the presence of Enchanté Rosé alongside the roar of engines promises a sensory experience like no other. Hotel Nacional Takeover: Rosé and Rooftop Vibes For those who like their wine served with a side of city chic, Enchanté Rosé extends its celebration beyond the track to the heart of Melbourne’s CBD. From Labour Day (March 10th) to March 23rd, the 100% gluten-free, Mexican-inspired venue Hotel Nacional is hosting an exclusive takeover—cue the rosé revolution! Spread across five levels, Hotel Nacional offers a rooftop experience like no other, and it’s here that visitors can immerse themselves in the essence of Enchanté. The… Read More

Yellowjackets meets fine dining with NEL restaurant’s “Eat Your Heart Out” feast

Brace yourself, Yellowjackets fans, because things are about to get delightfully eerie. To mark the launch of the highly anticipated third season of the Emmy®-nominated series, Paramount+ Australia has teamed up with acclaimed Chef Nelly Robinson to serve up an unforgettable (and slightly macabre) dining experience at Sydney’s NEL Restaurant. Running from Tuesday 4 to Friday 7 March, NEL Restaurant will transform into the remote wilderness at the heart of Yellowjackets’ gripping story. This exclusive event will immerse diners in a world of survival, savagery, and unforgettable flavours, with an 11-course ‘Eat Your Heart Out’ degustation menu that defies convention. A Culinary Journey into the Wilderness Fans with an appetite for the adventurous will be treated to an interactive three-hour feast. Much like the characters on the show, you’ll be asked to scavenge for survival—though rest assured, this will be a far tastier experience (no hunting required!). The dishes mirror the primal, tension-filled essence of the series, with Chef Nelly creating a menu inspired by the question every Yellowjackets fan dreads to face—friend or feast? From foraging for edible elements to confronting dishes with unique ‘body part’ themes—think “how do we make an ear appetising?”—the menu promises audacious creativity and bold flavours. “While it might not look conventionally appetising,” Chef Nelly teases, “the flavours will leave you speechless.” Expect dishes inspired by Yellowjackets’ most shocking scenes. The feast is not for the faint-hearted but guarantees awe and wonder for fans of the show who are ready to test their culinary and emotional boundaries. Join the… Read More

Fourth Village Panini bar & café brings Italian charm to Mosman

Mosman’s favourite Italian food haven, Fourth Village Providore, has unveiled an exciting evolution with the launch of the Fourth Village Panini Bar & Café. This new venture adds a casual dining experience to the much-loved family establishment, creating a space that’s all about sharing the joy of Italian food with the local community. The café is a passion project for the Quattroville family, blending authentic Italian cooking with a fresh, inviting atmosphere. “This is more than just an expansion—it’s a continuation of our commitment to sharing the heart and soul of Italian cuisine,” explains co-owner Dominic Quattroville. “Whether guests are joining us for a morning coffee or a leisurely lunch, we’ve stayed true to the deep traditions of genuine Italian hospitality.” A Fresh Take on Italian Casual Dining Open Wednesday through Sunday for breakfast and lunch, the Fourth Village Panini Bar & Café takes inspiration from the relaxed dining culture of Italy. Perfect for a quick fix of coffee and pastries or a long, shared meal with friends, the space has been thoughtfully designed to welcome guests throughout the day. It’s somewhere you want to linger, savour, and return to again and again. At the centre of the new menu is the panuozzo, a traditional Italian street food made from woodfired pizza bread. Bridging the gap between panini and pizza, this signature dish is filled with gourmet ingredients. Highlights include an indulgent salami and mortadella with stracciatella and a vibrant vegetarian option featuring chargrilled Mediterranean vegetables. The menu doesn’t stop there. House-made focaccia and burrata… Read More

Date night: Amatrice Rooftop restaurant lands in Cremorne Melbourne

Cremorne’s skyline just got a whole lot more exciting—and delicious. The highly-anticipated Amatrice Rooftop Restaurant has officially opened, offering locals and Melburnians alike the chance to indulge in exceptional modern-Italian fare while taking in jaw-dropping views of the city. Set atop the tallest building in Cremorne, at Cubitt Place, 16 Stephenson Street, this new rooftop hotspot is already redefining Melbourne’s dining scene, raising the bar (quite literally) on rooftop experiences. A Rooftop Like No Other Accessed via a sleek lift befitting its contemporary surroundings, the restaurant sits on the tenth floor in a space designed to inspire just as much as it satisfies. Renowned interior designer Brahman Perera has created a stunning venue that balances elegance with a touch of Mediterranean charm. From the retractable glass roof that allows diners to enjoy the stars on balmy evenings to the imported red marble tables and sumptuous red velvet banquette seating, every detail speaks to timeless sophistication. The dining areas include a main room with city views, two outdoor decks (one facing Cremorne, the other the Dandenong Ranges), and an intimate private dining room for special celebrations, seating up to 10. For those who love alfresco dining but hate the unpredictable Melbourne weather, the glass conservatory surrounded by olive trees and a scalloped-edge canopy ensures the experience can be enjoyed year-round. A Modern-Italian Menu Worth the Hype Helmed by Head Chef Vincenzo Di Giovanniello, whose resume includes stints at Bar Carolina and Osteria Ilaria, the menu at Amatrice Rooftop Restaurant is a celebration of Italian culinary traditions… Read More

New distillery alert: The Goofy Barrel Whisky by Hang 10

Hang 10 Distillery, nestled on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, has done it again. World’s first sourdough whisky, anyone? That’s right, they’ve just dropped their first-ever whisky, The Goofy Barrel—a name as playful as its origins. This isn’t your average dram; it’s crafted from leftover sourdough bread and malted barley. Yep, the bread that might have been destined for the bin is now the star ingredient in a luxurious, small-batch whisky. Who knew saving the planet could taste this good? This whisky embodies everything Hang 10 is known for—sustainability, creativity, and a penchant for crafting award-winning spirits. Following the success of their Surfer’s Signature Gin, Classic Summer Gin, and Ocean Crest Vodka (also bread-based), they’ve now officially surfed into uncharted waters with The Goofy Barrel. Bonus points for being aged for three years in an ex-bourbon cask, giving it a knockout flavor profile of honey, baking spices, and crème caramel, rounded off by a long vanilla finish. Chef’s kiss. Oh, and did we mention it’s exclusive? With fewer than 180 bottles initially released (and as of 30/01/2025, fewer than 100 left because, duh, it’s amazing), this is one for collectors and sustainability nerds alike. Or maybe just folks who love whisky. “This whisky is about more than just great flavour, it’s about innovation and sustainability,” says Deon Rowe, Distiller and Co-Founder at Hang 10. “It’s the world’s first whisky made from leftover bread, and the response so far has been incredible. The toasty caramel start, followed by honey and vanilla notes, makes it irresistibly unique. Plus, it… Read More

Two reasonable Valentine’s Day dining options in Melbourne

Looking to impress your Valentine this year? Well, aren’t you lucky, because Melbourne’s got you covered with some of the most spectacular dining options for February 14th. Whether you’re after ocean views or cityscapes, Basque-inspired flavours or classic Italian dishes, here are two spots guaranteed to heat things up—if not romantically, then at least in your stomach. Valentine’s Day at Sebastian Nothing says romance like a four-course meal served with the sound of waves in the background. Treat your valentine to dining perfection at Sebastian, Melbourne’s gem perched right by the sandy shores of Williamstown Beach. Head Chef Timon Siew has curated a menu so divine it’ll outshine even Cupid’s work. Start with their signature pintxos, featuring delicacies like garlic prawn croquette and chorizo-stuffed dates (yes, please!). Move on to snapper ceviche and a main event of Wimmera duck paired with fresh sides. Cap it all off with an indulgent dark chocolate mousse—because what’s Valentine’s Day without chocolate? At $110 per person, this culinary experience will have you falling head over heels (for the food, at the very least). Key Details Valentine’s Day at Amatrice Rooftop Restaurant For those who believe in the universal truth that pasta = love, Amatrice Rooftop Restaurant is here to make your Valentine’s Day wish come true. Recently opened and already leaving its mark, this spot combines the magic of Italian flavors with stunning city views. Head Chef Vincenzo Di Giovanniello has prepared exclusive Valentine’s specials alongside their usual à la carte offerings. Whether you’re opting for a two-course lunch… Read More

Pitch Wharf: The Stylish Revolution of Modern Golf and Lifestyle in Canary Wharf

Well, move over traditional golf clubs and stodgy clubhouse vibes—something very exciting is rolling into London. The stylish golf and lifestyle brand, Pitch, has just announced its plans to launch their flagship venue, Pitch Wharf, right in the bustling heart of Canary Wharf. Slated for a February 2025 opening, this isn’t just another golf spot—it’s a luxury social hub wrapped in a shiny bow of fun, style, and a whole lot of tech. Goodbye, boring team lunches. Hello, golf bays with a view and killer cocktails. Spread across a massive 15,000 square feet of what can only be described as sheer brilliance, Pitch Wharf will be split over two floors and packed with all the good stuff. We’re talking private members’ areas, two stunning bars, a waterside terrace, and an 18 Greens restaurant that’s sure to cater to both your cheat-day cravings and your salad-eating alter ego. Oh, and for all you fashion-savvy folks—you’ll be pleased to know there’s a Trendy Golf concept store, too. Stocking premium brands like Malbon Golf, adidas, and J Lindeberg, it’s the kind of place to snag your cover-up-for-the-course and your post-game party outfit. If swing practice is what you’re after, the top floor delivers with 11 high-tech Trackman golf bays. Whether you’re a total beginner or fancy yourself the next Tiger Woods, these bays are loaded with options to refine your skills or just mess about with friends. Plus, the social spaces come with views of Canary Wharf that scream, “Fancy Instagram post, here I come.” But that’s not… Read More

Kuti Shack in South Australia offers new food experience

If there’s one dining event this year that will make you rethink everything you know about seafood, it’s this. On Saturday, 22 February 2025, the windswept beauty of the Coorong will set the stage for an extraordinary collaboration. It’s between two of Australia’s most accomplished chefs. South Australia’s own Mark Best, the pioneer of modern Australian fine dining, is joining forces with Brendan Roach, chef behind the much-loved Kuti Shack, for a one-off feast celebrating the raw, unfiltered magic of the Southern Ocean and Ngarrindjeri country. Kuti Shack, perched on the shores of Goolwa Beach, is famed for its connection to the natural environment, and it’s here that this duo will craft the kind of menus that don’t just tell a story—they sing it. With the sound of crashing waves as your backdrop and nothing but fresh, local ingredients on your plate, this isn’t just a meal—it’s an immersion into the Coorong and everything it represents. A Collaboration Anchored in Respect and Passion For Mark Best, the chance to cook alongside Brendan Roach is a long-awaited dream. Reflecting on their first meeting—appropriately enough, on a beach collecting pipis—Best shares his enthusiasm for the event. “The Coorong is one of Australia’s most incredible places, and its produce is a gift to any chef. Since the first time I met Brendan, I’ve been looking forward to the rare opportunity to work together to craft a menu that honours the region’s culture, people and produce. The Kuti Shack is everything Australian dining should be, a true reflection of… Read More

Wine & Cheese Fest 2025 returns to Melbourne – your tastebuds are in for a treat

Attention Melbourne foodies – the ultimate day for indulgence is just around the corner. The much-loved Wine & Cheese Fest is making a delicious comeback to The Timber Yard in Port Melbourne on Saturday, 1st March 2025. If you’re a fan of perfectly aged cheeses, incredible wines, or just love excuses to eat and drink your way through the best Victoria has to offer, mark your calendar now. What’s on the menu? Everything you could dream of. This year’s festival promises a feast for the senses with over 50 exhibitors from around Victoria and beyond. Think creamy delights from Boatshed Cheese, Milawa Cheese Company, and That’s Amore Cheese paired with sensational wines from Rob Dolan, Santolin Wines, and Witchmount Estate. Whether you’re a blue cheese aficionado or prefer an easy-drinking Shiraz, there’s something to please every palate. And it’s not just about tasting – though you’ll want to show up hungry. The festival offers unlimited free tastings, because how else will you decide which goodies to take home? Don’t forget your stretchy pants because the lineup of eateries is equally tempting. Grab a gooey bite from Frencheese, munch on flavour-packed arancini from That Arancini Guy, or spice up your day with tacos from La Santa Muerte. No one leaves this festival empty or unsatisfied. Become a Wine & Cheese Expert Love wine and cheese but wouldn’t call yourself an expert? That’s about to change. Festival-goers can attend free masterclasses that turn casual enjoyers into full-fledged aficionados. The sessions, which will be announced closer to the… Read More