Category: AUSTRALIAN FOOD

Mister Bianco’s tomato festival in Melbourne

Festa del Pomodoro tomato man pasta wine

Posted: 26/02/2024

As the vibrant shades of red start to dominate the pantries, Mister Bianco in Kew heats up its kitchen for a seasonal celebration that tantalises the taste buds: the Festa Del Pomodoro (Tomato Day). This joyous event is etched on Saturday 2nd March – a day to embrace the zest of fresh, ripe tomatoes in their prime. The excitement at Mister Bianco mounts as March heralds the time for Sugo making, a ritual cherished by the team for its traditional essence and the promise of mouth-watering Italian cuisine. Join us for a fabulously orchestrated dinner where the humble tomato takes center stage. With the ambiance enlivened by the aromas of Italy, our guests will not only indulge in a spectacular three-course home-style meal but will also partake in the artistry of Sugo making. A feast for the senses awaits, accompanied by our finely selected house wines. Our very own Chef Joe Vargetto, a maestro in the culinary world, is thrilled to offer more than just a dining experience. Armed with pots and passion, he is set to impart his closely guarded Sugo-making secrets through an engaging cooking demonstration. Attendees can look forward to an educational evening filled with anecdotes, techniques, and inspiration, directly from the expert’s kitchen to yours. Event Details: Menu: Shared Entree Shared Mains + Sides Dessert Bonus: Every guest leaves with a treasured bottle of Sugo, a memento of the event to be savoured at their own tables. Reservations for the Festa Del Pomodoro dinner event can be made at SevenRooms. Explore… Read More

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

Tags: Festa del Pomodoro, melbourne restaurant, Mister Biano, Tomato festival Melbourne

Stokehouse’s new dessert for sweet-tooths

by James Banham

Posted: 25/02/2024

Calling all dessert lovers and sweet tooths of Melbourne, this one’s specially crafted for you. As part of the highly-anticipated 2024 Melbourne Food & Wine Festival program, Stokehouse will host a unique, one-night-only event that promises to redefine the art of desserts and leave a lasting impression on every guest’s palate. On Monday, 18th March, Stokehouse Group Pastry Chef Ash Smith, renowned for his culinary expertise at establishments like Aria, Rockpool Grill & Bar, and Spice Temple, will join forces with his longtime friend Eddie Stewart of Tokyo Lamington to curate an exquisite five-course dessert degustation. Priced at $148 per person, this exceptional collaboration aims to celebrate the nostalgic pastry trends of the past while infusing a contemporary twist that captivates the senses. The ‘Desserted’ experience is designed to challenge perceptions and elevate desserts from mere meal finales to the main event itself. Guests can anticipate a journey through the entire dessert spectrum, commencing with a savory-leaning first course and culminating in classic sweet treats, each presented with a delightful twist that showcases the chefs’ innovative prowess. As the sun sets over the St Kilda beachfront, attendees will savor a welcome drink upon arrival before indulging in this symphony of sweetness that pays homage to cherished memories and culinary traditions. Event Details: The ‘Desserted’ dinner promises an evening of temptation that seamlessly blends innovation and tradition, accentuated by the breathtaking backdrop of the picturesque St Kilda beachfront. Stokehouse and Tokyo Lamington extend a warm invitation to all dessert enthusiasts and food connoisseurs, inviting them to… Read More

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

Tags: Best Melbourne restaurant, Melbourne desserts, melbourne restaurant, New desserts, Stoke House, Stokehouse Melbourne

The new Re’em Yarra Valley winery

by James Banham

Posted: 25/02/2024

Helen & Joey Estate is thrilled to announce the opening of a new chapter in its illustrious winery journey with the introduction of Re’em Yarra Valley. This exciting expansion sees Re’em becoming the home to a brand-new restaurant and 16 boutique rooms, solidifying the estate’s position as a premier destination for wine tourism. Under the visionary leadership of Helen & Joey Estates’ founders and the guidance of esteemed culinary consultant Mark Ebbels, Re’em presents a dining experience that pays homage to Helen and Joey’s rich Chinese heritage while celebrating premium seasonal Australian produce. Head chef Abe Yang, in collaboration with Ebbels, has curated a menu that promises a truly distinctive culinary adventure in the heart of the Yarra Valley. Ebbels, known for his tenure at renowned establishments such as The Fat Duck, Bacchanalia, and TarraWarra Estate, expressed his honor in working with Helen & Joey on this venture. He shared, “The challenge of blending their heritage with innovative culinary techniques and local produce has forged a truly unique dining experience. It’s a privilege to help craft a menu that marries tradition with creativity in the Yarra Valley.” Re’em’s front-of-house team, led by venue manager Darren Fraser, a finalist for the ‘Service Excellence Award’ in the Good Food Guide 2024, is committed to delivering an exceptional dining experience from Monday to Sunday. The restaurant’s menu has been meticulously designed to harmonize with the estate’s new world wines. At the core of the kitchen is a wood-fired grill, infusing many of the hot dishes with an additional… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, FOOD & DRINK

Tags: winery, yarra valley

Pleasure Club Sydney: unexpected awaits

by James Banham

Updated: 24/02/2024

The anticipation is over as Odd Culture Group’s Pleasure Club officially opens its doors, inviting adventurous souls to experience an unparalleled blend of entertainment and creativity. Nestled in the vibrant heart of Newtown, Pleasure Club promises an electrifying atmosphere where the unexpected is just the beginning. Unveiling a World of Free Entertainment and Artistic Ingenuity Odd Culture Group proudly champions free entertainment that is accessible to all while also fostering a deep connection with the independent artist community. With a commitment to nurturing the careers of local creatives, Pleasure Club will feature monthly lineup announcements through its social channels, showcasing a diverse range of talent. However, what sets this venue apart are the clandestine shows and surprise unveilings of rare and special performances carefully woven into the programming. Embracing the Profound Impact of Art and Experience In a statement, Zavadszky expressed, “I think everyone is realizing how important the arts are in our lives, and that experiences are more valuable than conventional transactions of product. They engage with our senses in ways which are more profound and introducing this diversified offering as a kind of ‘new norm’ is really leveling up the industry for the better.” Pleasure Club aims to be a refuge at any hour of the night, where impeccable drinks, knowledgeable staff, and a comforting ambiance ensure a sense of security. As the curtains part, guests are transported into an unpredictable realm of entertainment, guaranteeing an unforgettable experience with each visit. Opening Weekend Line-Up: A Glimpse into the Spectacular Friday 23rd Feb Saturday… Read More

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

Tags: Best date spots Sydney, New Sydney bars, newtown, Pleasure Club Sydney

Herb and Chilli food festival in Victoria

by THE F

Updated: 23/02/2024

The Herb and Chilli Festival is set to mark its 12th annual celebration on March 16 & 17, 2024, promising a weekend filled with sizzling experiences, live music and entertainment. The event will take place at the scenic grounds in Wandin, Yarra Valley, offering an array of sweat-inducing products, competitions, and live cooking demonstrations. A Spice Lover’s Paradise Founded in 2012 by Clive and Di Larkman, owners of Romantic Nursery, this festival serves as a dynamic platform for both indulgence and education, showcasing Australia’s finest herb and chilli products. The couple’s dedication to sharing their passion with others has made this event a must-visit for spice enthusiasts. Clive Larkman expressed, “Our event is about bringing people together who have a love for flavour and spice. It introduces people to the world of herbs and chillies; not just in their food but also in drinks, general health, and the many cultures for which they are basic parts of life.” New Flavors and Experiences The 2024 festival brings a host of new food vendors, enticing festival-goers to explore unfamiliar flavor combinations and venture out of their comfort zones. With close to 100 businesses within the herb and chilli realm participating, attendees can revel in unique offerings and sample the enticing world of spice-infused consumables. Hot Sauce Alley returns this year, expanding from 8 to 11 vendors, each unveiling at least one new hot sauce product in 2024. Additionally, several new stalls will be experimenting with previously unseen flavor combinations for attendees to try and buy. Culinary Delights… Read More

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

Tags: food festival, Food festival Yarra valley, Herb chilli festival, victoria, Yarra valley victoria

New to Melbourne Castlerose underground restaurant

CastleRose January ImageCredit AlexSquadrito 3

by THE F

Posted: 13/02/2024

South Melbourne’s culinary landscape has been graced with the arrival of Castlerose, an extraordinary underground restaurant and bar that promises to redefine the art of dining. Tucked away beneath Clementine at 67 Palmerston Crescent, this clandestine establishment is a collaborative venture led by hospitality virtuoso Glen Bagnara, renowned for his iconic venues like Hemingway’s Wine Room and Clementine, in partnership with the esteemed developer, Fortis. Immerse yourself in an enchanting experience as you descend a spiral staircase into the embrace of an elegant, dimly lit space. The ambiance, reminiscent of the refinement of 20th-century dining, invites guests to revel in an atmosphere that marries elegance with intrigue. Meticulously designed by Co:Aika, the space features a harmonious blend of dark timbers, marble, and Italian terrazzo, evoking a sense of opulence akin to grand European venues. Beyond the captivating physical space, Castlerose offers a meticulously crafted menu that tantalizes the senses and invites exploration. From signature offerings like branded duck cigars, lobster rolls, to ceviche, every dish is a testament to the artistry and creativity that defines this establishment. Notably, the underground bar adds an element of mystery as certain menu items are presented with a touch of theatrical flair, heightening the overall dining experience. Head Chef David Yuan’s menu reflects a celebration of classical European cuisine, offering seasonal and generously portioned dishes designed for sharing. Each creation, from the tinned duck rillettes with fig jam and cornichons to the Wagyu Rump Cap 6+ served with Yorkshire pudding and red wine, embodies a symphony of flavors that… Read More

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

Tags: Castlerose, Melbourne best restaurants, Melbourne Castlerose restaurant, melbourne restaurant, Restaurant and bar

Melbourne wine & cheese fest 2024

by James Banham

Updated: 12/02/2024

Prepare your taste buds for a truly delectable experience as the Wine & Cheese Fest returns to Melbourne on Sunday, 3rd March 2024. Hosted at The Timber Yard, this event promises a delightful showcase of the finest dairy products and grape varieties, creating an unforgettable celebration for all attendees. An Epicurean Delight Embrace the 11th edition of the Wine & Cheese Fest, where approximately 50 artisan producers from Victoria and beyond will converge to curate a sensory paradise. With complimentary tastings, engaging masterclasses, and the opportunity to interact with each boutique producer, this event is a tribute to Australian businesses and the art of gastronomy. Culinary Showcases Step into a world of culinary exploration with renowned producers such as That’s Amore Cheese, BoatShed Cheese, Schulz Organic Dairy, Long Paddock Cheese & The Cheese School, L’Artisan Cheese, Urban Vineyard, Bellarine Estate Winery, Pizzini Wines, Clarnette Wines, and John Gehrig Wines. Additionally, a selection of eateries including Ummu Gozleme, Porcupine Eatery, Athens Traditional Souvlaki, and Cannoleria will be present, offering delicious dishes to savor between tastings. The Ultimate Experience Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or simply seeking to tantalize your taste buds, the Wine & Cheese Fest caters to all enthusiasts of fine cheese and wine. Attendees can partake in free masterclasses conducted by cheese producers and winemakers, gaining insights into production techniques, culinary tips, and the art of becoming a true aficionado. For those seeking an extra element of excitement, the Grape Stomp Competition awaits, offering participants the chance to win delightful prizes. Express your interest… Read More

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

Tags: Cheese wine festival, Melbourne blog, Melbourne cheese festival, melbourne food, melbourne food blog, Melbourne wine festival

West Melbourne’s best food festival

by THE F

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

Tags: Best Melbourne food, Flavour Fest, FlavourFest, melbourne food, Melbourne food festival

Johnny’s Green Room rooftop in Melbourne

by THE F

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

Tags: Green Room, Johnny's Green Room

Best Greek food at Australian Open

by THE F

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

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.