Category: AUSTRALIAN FOOD

Rombe is Melbourne’s new culinary space at Burwood Brickworks

Posted: 04/04/2024

Wednesday, 3rd April 2024 marks a significant milestone for Burwood Brickworks Shopping Centre as it opens its doors to Rombe, an enchanting all-day dining and event space that promises an unparalleled modern-Australian culinary experience. Nestled amidst the verdant rooftop garden, only 14km from the heart of Melbourne, Rombe stands as a testament to the centre’s vision of blending community with unique dining experiences. This rustic rooftop haven is specifically designed to foster connections and memorable dining encounters against the backdrop of Burwood Brickworks’ bustling environment. Rombe’s introduction to the centre is part of a broader initiative by Burwood Brickworks to redefine the traditional shopping centre experience. “Our goal has always been to create a space that is more than just a destination for shopping but a vibrant community hub where individuals can gather, dine, and celebrate,” articulates Robert Breda, the Centre Manager. Rombe’s existence on the rooftop is a bold step towards fulfilling this vision, offering locals and visitors a remarkable dining setting surrounded by a community garden. The design of Rombe exudes a romantic charm, featuring a light-filled dining room with windowed vistas offering panoramic views of the rooftop garden and the Dandenong Ranges. With both indoor and alfresco dining options, Rombe caters to various dining experiences, from serene morning breakfasts to lively weekend brunches. The menu, curated by Head Chef Jerry Yi, a veteran with experience at Shihuishi and Red Spice Road, showcases the richness of locally sourced, seasonal produce, married with inventive Australian cooking. Whether it’s the ricotta hotcakes for breakfast, yellow… Read More

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

Tags: Burwood restaurants, melbourne restaurants, Rombe

5 top South Australian restaurants for food and wine

by James Banham

Updated: 31/03/2024

Australia’s culinary landscape is as diverse and vibrant as its breathtaking scenery. From the bustling laneways of Melbourne to the sun-kissed shores of Sydney, each corner of this vast continent offers a unique gastronomic experience. This article introduces you to an array of distinctive restaurants that not only showcase the rich tapestry of Australia’s food culture but are also worth the trip in their own right. Whether you’re craving the freshest seafood, innovative plant-based cuisine, or flavours that traverse the globe, join us as we explore the establishments that are putting Australia firmly on the world’s culinary map. Karrawatta Wines Located at 164 Greenhills Rd, Meadows SA 5201, Karratta Wines’ highlights let you discover the scenic beauty of Adelaide Hills on your way to Karrawatta Wines, a place where passion meets tradition. Enjoy the breathtaking views and taste wines that are a true expression of the region, thanks to their commitment to low-intervention winemaking and organic farming. Explore the essence of their vineyards, perfectly suited to the Adelaide HIlls, McLaren Vale, and Langhorne Creek. Magill Estate Restaurant Find it at 78 Penfold Road, Adelaide SA 5072, where, nestled in the beautiful Adelaide foothills, Magill Estate Restaurant offers a blend of modern dining and stunning scenery. Guests can enjoy contemporary dishes and an impressive wine selection, all while taking in breathtaking views that make every meal special. Restaurant Botanic At Plane Tree Dr, Adelaide SA 5000, Botanic’s highlights are that it’s located within the stunning 51-hectare Adelaide Botanic Garden, Restaurant Botanic provides a unique dining experience… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, FEATURES, FOOD & DRINK

Tags: Adelaide restaurants, Australian food, Best restaurants

Top restaurants open in Sydney this Easter weekend

by THE F

Posted: 31/03/2024

Easter weekend in Sydney is not just a time for egg hunts and chocolate bunnies; it’s also an opportunity to explore the city’s vibrant culinary scene. From waterfront dining with breathtaking views of the Harbour to cosy laneway eateries serving up inventive fusion cuisine, Sydney offers a plethora of dining experiences to make your Easter weekend unforgettable. Whether you’re in the mood for freshly caught seafood, authentic Italian pasta, or a modern Australian feast, we’ve scoured the city to bring you the best places to eat in Sydney this Easter weekend. Hop into Easter at The Rocks, Barangaroo and Darling Harbour with a range of long lunches and exclusive Easter menus. The Rocks Promising some of Sydney’s best Easter eats, indulge in a themed afternoon tea, signature hot cross buns and artisanal goods. More details here. Darling Harbour Elevated Easter feasts, family fun and long lunches! Darling Harbour truly is Sydney’s hub for Easter festivities, no matter what you’re looking for. More details here. Barangaroo Embrace the true essence of the Easter long weekend by indulging in long lunches, feasts and sweet treats by the water in Barangaroo. More details here.

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

Tags: easter sydney, sydney, sydney restaurants

The Ultimate Culinary Experience: Good Food & Wine Show 2024

by James Banham

Posted: 30/03/2024

The diary of every food and wine connoisseur in the nation is marked with anticipation for the return of the beloved Good Food & Wine Show, now announcing its grand 2024 circuit. Celebrating its 23rd year, this hallmark event continues to be the beating heart of the country’s food and wine culture, inviting over 100,000 enthusiasts annually. With the promise of an even richer array of offerings, the 2024 iteration takes a leap forward, focusing on “affordable luxuries and indulgences” that ensure a spectrum of delightful take-home treats and gourmet ideas suited to every budget. At the core of the event is the cherished Cooking Main Stage, anticipated to dazzle with a lineup of celebrity chefs unveiling their culinary secrets. It’s a space where inspiration meets entertainment, with visitors poised to leave armed with innovative recipe ideas. The introduction of The Australian Eggs Flip It Cooking Stage sees culinary luminaries like Dani Venn and Jane de Graaff demonstrating elevated, nourishing dishes live. Additionally, a luxuriant tea experience awaits at The Art of Luxury Tea with Dilmah 85 Reserve, while the RIEDEL Drinks Lab and Wine Selectors Tasting Room promise to expand palates with expert-guided wine tastings from diverse Australian terroirs. Exclusivity takes form in the Singapore Airlines VIP Lounge, offering a premium respite with gourmet menus and select beverages for Business Class ticket holders. The Loire Valley Wine Experience and the fun DrinkWise tasting tracker scratchie card further enrich the event, ensuring immersive wine education and responsible enjoyment. Not to forget, the introduction of two… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, FOOD & DRINK

Explore the ultimate ‘Cheese your own adventure’

by James Banham

Posted: 25/03/2024

Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the art of cheese and the allure of fine wines? Look no further than Melbourne’s beloved Maker & Monger, where an extraordinary ‘Cheese Your Own Adventure’ dine-in experience awaits. Nestled within the vibrant Prahran Market, Maker & Monger invites you to indulge in an unparalleled selection of exquisite cheeses and exceptional wines, all while basking in the infectious ambiance of this iconic marketplace. Crafting Your Bespoke Cheese Board At Maker & Monger, the ‘Cheese Your Own Adventure’ experience is nothing short of enchanting. Picture this: you have the opportunity to engage with expert wine buyers and cheesemongers, guiding you through the process of crafting your very own bespoke cheese board. The journey begins with selecting your desired weight of cheese, each offering a distinct and tantalizing flavor profile. Then, for a mere $15 per cheese board, delight in the array of accoutrements carefully curated to elevate your sensory experience – think luscious crackers, succulent dried fruits, and more. Unveiling Extraordinary Wines As you savor the delectable cheeses, prepare to be captivated by a selection of left-of-centre, biodynamic wines sourced from renowned vineyards such as Cobaw Ridge in Victoria, Gentle Folk in Adelaide, and Mosse from the Loire Valley. What’s more, these exceptional wines are available at retail prices, ensuring an extraordinary value that’s at least half of what you’d typically pay at a restaurant. Plus, with the option to take your bottle home if unfinished, the allure of these remarkable wines extends far beyond… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, FOOD & DRINK

Tags: cheese, Cheese adventure

Bianchetto Bar Lights Up Kew’s Nightlife

by James Banham

Posted: 24/03/2024

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

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

Tags: Bars in Kew Melbourne, Bianchetto Bar, Kew Melbourne

Pidapipo’s creations for Melbourne Food & Wine Festival 2024

by THE F

Posted: 23/03/2024

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

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

Tags: gelato, Melbourne food wine festival, pidapipo

South Melbourne restaurant Lucia does it well

by James Banham

Posted: 23/03/2024

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

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

Tags: Lucia, South Melbourne restaurants

New bar in Sydney: INNA Lounge

by James Banham

Posted: 20/03/2024

Nestled in the heart of Sydney’s bustling CBD, INNA Lounge emerges as a beacon of luxury and nostalgia within the historic walls of The Republic Hotel. This latest addition to Sydney’s nightlife is not just a bar; it’s a cultural revitalisation of one of the city’s iconic landmarks. With the promise of combining unapologetic sophistication and a wink to the past, INNA Lounge invites patrons to indulge in an experience unlike any other. Stage One of an Ambitious Renovation INNA Lounge marks the beginning of an ambitious facelift for the beloved Republic Hotel. A multi-million dollar renovation aims to breathe new life into this four-story building, preserving its rich heritage while infusing it with a fresh, contemporary edge. The transformation of INNA Lounge sets the tone for what’s to come, offering a glimpse into a future where history and modernity coalesce seamlessly. A Cocktail List That Nostalgically Innovates At the heart of INNA Lounge’s charm is its inventive cocktail menu. Spearheaded by Rusty (James Russell), the Virtical Group Beverage Manager, the menu draws inspiration from the vibrant art deco era of the 1930s and post-World War I innovation. Featuring reimagined classics that spotlight iconic Australian ingredients, such as Milo and Arnott’s biscuits, each cocktail tells a story. The ‘Biscuit Tin’, a peach cobbler homage to Arnott’s, and the ‘Mayne Meal’, a marriage between Milo and the Espresso Martini, are just a taste of the creative flair INNA offers. Culinary Creations to Complement Your Cocktail Complementing the sophisticated drink selection, Chef Derek Bell curates a series… Read More

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

Tags: Good bars Sydney, Inna bar, Inna bar sydney, Republic Hotel Sydney, Sydney bar INNA

New YAWYE juice bar in Melbourne

by James Banham

Updated: 18/03/2024

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

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

Tags: Melbourne smoothies, Yawye

ARTS & CULTURE

NGV Architecture Commission 2024: Home Truth by Breathe

14/11/2024

By James Banham

In a bold reimagining of Australian home design, Home Truth by Breathe has been announced as the winner of the NGV Architecture Commission for 2024. This captivating installation takes the form of a labyrinthine house-within-a-house, challenging the notion of ever-expanding home sizes in Australia. At the heart of this design is a powerful message: rethink how we build to create more sustainable, higher-quality, and community-orientated living spaces. Home Truth invites visitors to step into a space that questions the ethical and ecological ramifications of the sprawling, oversized homes that have become prevalent across the nation. An external frame mirrors the silhouette of the average Australian home, which, at 236 square metres, ranks as the largest globally. Nestled within this silhouette is a serene timber structure, representing a smaller, more sustainable living footprint. This juxtaposition of scales is not just an architectural statement but a call to action. By contrasting these two structures, Home Truth shines a light on how smaller, more considered homes could help reduce suburban sprawl, mitigate environmental impacts, and enhance community wellbeing. It is a thought-provoking invitation for audiences to consider alternative, sustainable housing models that could lead to positive lifestyle changes. Visitors entering through the expansive garage door of the larger house find themselves navigating a maze of rooms and corridors, eventually arriving at the intimate timber retreat. This wooden haven offers a space for meditation and reflection, presenting a tangible vision of a more sustainable housing future. Constructed from framing pine and Saveboard, Home Truth uses materials emblematic of current… Read More

LOEWE PRECO SS25 SUNA FUJITA CERAMICS RGB CROPPED 4X5 3 5

Suna Fujita, LOEWE & Melbourne Art Fair to exhibit works

14/11/2024

By James Banham

In an exciting fusion of art and fashion, Melbourne Art Fair has announced a groundbreaking partnership with LOEWE, the esteemed luxury fashion brand renowned for its dedication to craftsmanship since 1846. This collaboration brings to life an exquisite preview of Jonathan Anderson’s renewed partnership with the Kyoto-based ceramist duo, Suna Fujita, marking a world-first exhibition in Australasia. The LOEWE x Suna Fujita collection made its debut with an intimate showcase at LOEWE’s Melbourne Collins Street store, offering an exclusive viewing experience of twenty whimsical ceramic pieces. These delicate works, celebrated for their intricate hand-painted scenes featuring ocean creatures and cosmic animals, seamlessly blend artistry with everyday function, transforming accessories and ready-to-wear items into enchanting works of art. Fair Director Melissa Loughnan expressed her enthusiasm for this creative union, stating, “This partnership is a reflection of Melbourne Art Fair and LOEWE’s shared commitment to supporting living artists and creatives, and an exciting precursor to the 18th edition of the Fair, which promises to be one of our most dynamic and anticipated showcases yet.” The collaboration not only highlights the playful essence of Suna Fujita’s ceramics but also underscores the vibrant art scene that Melbourne Art Fair champions. Launching today, the LOEWE x Suna Fujita collection is available both in stores and online at loewe.com, continuing until 29th December 2024. This artistic venture paves the way for the 18th edition of Melbourne Art Fair, set to take place from 20-23 February 2025 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. The fair will present a remarkable assembly of… Read More

Labyrinth in Concert comes to London’s Royal Festival Hall

12/11/2024

By James Banham

Prepare to be whisked away to the mystical realm of Goblin City with a legendary twist, as “Jim Henson’s Labyrinth: In Concert” makes its grand debut at London’s Royal Festival Hall. On Friday, 28th November 2025, fans of this beloved musical fantasy film will experience a spectacular fusion of cinema and live music that promises to be nothing short of magical. For the first time ever, Jim Henson’s original masterpiece, starring the one and only David Bowie, will come alive on stage with a captivating live band performance. Audiences will be treated to the enchanting melodies of Bowie’s original vocals, accompanied by the band in perfect harmony, all set against the backdrop of the movie projected on a large HD cinema screen. It’s a chance to relive the unforgettable music and adventure that has captured hearts for nearly 40 years since the film’s release in 1986. Produced by Black Ink Presents, a division of Sony Music Entertainment, this unique concert experience is set to enthral long-time fans and newcomers alike. Known for breathing new life into iconic films with live orchestras and bands, Black Ink Presents has previously dazzled audiences with events like Batman, Ghostbusters, and The Nightmare Before Christmas. CEO John Kinsner shares his excitement, stating, “I have always been a huge fan of the groundbreaking collaboration of Jim Henson, George Lucas, David Bowie, and Trevor Jones on this film, and bringing it to fans in a live concert screening experience is a dream come true. Getting to hear Bowie’s vocals with a live… Read More

Why rush to National Art School postgrad show

12/11/2024

By James Banham

Step into the vibrant world of the arts at the National Art School (NAS) as it proudly unveils the 2024 Postgrad Show, a spectacular showcase of over 400 works by Australia’s next generation of emerging artists. Open to the public until 17 November 2024, this annual exhibition has firmly established itself as a pivotal event in Sydney’s cultural calendar, attracting gallerists, collectors, and art enthusiasts eager to discover fresh talent. The Postgrad Show serves as a launchpad for these budding artists, featuring the final bodies of work by the Master of Fine Art (MFA) graduates. This year’s exhibition offers an eclectic mix of mediums including painting, sculpture, printmaking, video, collage, 3D printing, performance, photography, drawing, and ceramics. Each piece is a testament to the diverse themes being explored—ranging from natural and digital ecosystems to identity, the Anthropocene, philosophy, and personal narratives. Ceramics take centre stage with artists like Benjamin Akuila, who delves into themes of construction, authenticity, and plasticity, informed by his Tongan heritage. His work offers a compelling exploration of queer and diasporic identity through hybrid cultural narratives. Meanwhile, Chrystie Longworth uses ceramic forms to navigate femininity, identity, and domesticity, drawing inspiration from historical subversive messages crafted by women in textiles. Her work, with its tactile terracotta and pigment surfaces, invites viewers to experience a subtle play of light and texture. From the drawing studios, Quan Zhu Ma marries traditional Chinese philosophy with contemporary practices, using innovative materials like heated charcoal and ash. His work reimagines traditional ink art, creating a fusion that resonates… Read More

Christmas music treat in Sydney: Handel’s Messiah returns

11/11/2024

By James Banham

This December, the Sydney Philharmonia Choirs are set to enchant audiences once again with their much-loved Messiah concerts, a cherished Sydney Christmas tradition that has spanned over a century.