Green Cup expands to Hawksburn Village: a new oasis for health enthusiasts

Updated: 02/12/2023

Green Cup, renowned for its delectable acai bowls and refreshing smoothies, has recently opened its seventh store in Hawksburn Village, much to the delight of health-conscious individuals in the area. This expansion showcases Green Cup’s commitment to providing delicious and nutritious treats to communities far and wide. Situated at the heart of Hawksburn Village, the new Green Cup store promises fast service and mouthwatering delights for those on the go. “We selected Hawksburn Village as our seventh location due to its vibrant and bustling community, which perfectly aligns with our mission of making healthy treats accessible to our customers,” explains Natalie Guest, Director of Green Cup. The new store aims to bring the unique Green Cup experience to the dynamic Hawksburn Village community. Green Cup’s latest venture boasts a fresh and distinctive look, courtesy of the renowned luxury interior design firm, Hecker Guthrie. With the use of raw materials such as timber, steel, concrete, and fibreglass, the store exudes a modern and sophisticated ambiance. The juxtaposition of industrial elements with refined touches provides customers with an elevated and unforgettable experience, while still capturing the essence of the beloved Green Cup brand. Patrons can enjoy their Green Cup experience both inside and outside the establishment, with comfortable seating available for up to nine individuals in each area. Whether it’s savouring a refreshing smoothie or grabbing a quick bite, the new store offers a welcoming space for health enthusiasts to relax and indulge. Green Cup’s journey began back in 2014 when they first opened their doors in… Read More

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

Tags: Best health shop, Green Cup, Hawkesburn, melbourne cafes, Melbourne health shop

Centennial Homestead in Sydney launches ‘Rosé & Croquet’ activation

by James Banham

Posted: 16/11/2023

Centennial Homestead, in partnership with AIX, reveals its latest summer sensation, the ‘Rosé & Croquet’ activation. Experience the ultimate garden party, filled to the brim with an abundance of rosé and complimentary mini croquet kits for patrons. This activation aims to immerse you in the quintessential family-friendly summer experience. By marrying the enchanting ambiance of parklands with the distinguished allure of AIX rosé wine, Centennial Homestead and AIX have concocted a delightful setting. Expect an expanded outdoor seating area equipped with additional seats, picnic blankets, umbrellas and abundant opportunities to create lasting memories. AIX is excited to roll out special prices on their premium Provence Rosé to celebrate this activation, with glasses at $16, standard bottles at $75, magnum bottles at $140, and the monumental Jeroboam bottle at $250, exclusively at Centennial Homestead. Centennial Homestead’s executive chef, Jeffrey Forrest, presents meticulously crafted picnic boards priced at $43 per person. It features a gourmet selection of the finest cheeses and cured meats. The casual dining menu will remain available throughout the activation period, offering fresh, contemporary dishes with a twist on traditional home-cooked favorites. AIX is thrilled about their summer activation. “That’s the beauty of AIX Rosé, its versatility to pair with any occasion. AIX tastes best when shared.” states Maison Saint Aix, Provence. Expect to bask in an unforgettable and inclusive atmosphere, celebrating leisure, enjoyment, and relaxation all throughout summer. The ‘Rosé & Croquet’ activation will continue until 31st December 2023, operating from Wednesday to Sunday, 12pm – 5pm, aligning with the venue’s closing hours…. Read More

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

Tags: Centennial Homestead, sydney, Sydney Centennial Park, Sydney rose

Embrace authentic fusion of tradition and innovation at Australian Gin Week

by James Banham

Updated: 14/11/2023

In the heart of Australia, a unique partnership is set to celebrate the richness and diversity of the nation’s gin industry. For Australian Gin Week, Seven Seasons, an iconic gin brand known for its remarkable interpretations of indigenous Australian flavours, has partnered with the award-winning Rekodo Restaurant & Vinyl Bar at Barangaroo House. Together, they are unveiling the Green Ant Gin Martini, a bold new creation that captures the vibrant flavours of Australian flora. From the 15th of November to the 14th of December, patrons of Rekodo will be able to indulge in a special Green Ant Gin Martini and snack menu. This collaboration not only puts the spotlight on Seven Season Spirits’ acclaimed Green Ant Gin, but also entwines the rich history and flavours of Australian flora in an exciting culinary experience. Award-winning bartender, Jai Lyons, will be the mastermind behind the Green Ant Martini, while head chef Michael Dabbs has crafted a bespoke menu that perfectly complements the unique notes of the cocktail. Among the standout offerings is the Steak tartare temaki with koji, finger lime dressing, and a green ant garnish priced at $14. In addition, the Green Ant Gin Martini will feature at 50 of Australia’s top venues, including Margaret & West Hotels in New South Wales, Vue de Monde & Sunda in Victoria, Sasso Italiano & Rosellas Bar in Queensland, and Sofitel & Fleet Street Social in South Australia. Each venue will add their unique twist to the cocktail, further elevating the martini experience. Seven Seasons, founded by former AFL… Read More

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

Tags: australian gin, gin

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

by James Banham

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

Tags: melbourne, Vue de monde

Experience the Unmatched Flavours at UGO Fitzroy: Melbourne’s Gem of Italian Gastronomy

by James Banham

Posted: 06/11/2023

Every gastronome’s dream has come to fruition, as UGO Cucina Popolare, heralded for its delightful, simple Italian fare, opens its pop-up location in Fitzroy in the burgeoning Fabbrica development. From Friday to Sunday, locals and food enthusiasts alike will be able to savour UGO’s unmatched coffee and Italian delicacies, courtesy of the seasoned Cannoleria team. As the day breaks, the scent of UGO’s renowned paninis wafts through the air. These aren’t your average sandwiches – they’re an adventure for your taste buds, available in five unique porchetta-infused varieties. Each panini is a meticulously crafted masterpiece served on focaccia with flavours that range from semolina to cocoa. Vegetarians, fear not – UGO’s Vego panini, with its eggplant caponata and burrata on barese focaccia, offers an enticing option for the plant-based crowd. If breakfast is your preferred meal, enjoy a selection of morning dishes until noon with the option to add a hearty serving of porchetta or creamy burrata. For dessert, indulge in Cannoleria cannoli, freshly piped and ready to satisfy your sweet tooth, or choose from Biscotti Della Nonna and the Ciambellone Sponge Cake. But what’s a visit to a Melbourne cafe without the perfect coffee blend? St Remio Coffee is ready to be served in all its forms – espresso, regular, large, or mocha – catering to the discerning tastes of all coffee aficionados. If you’re seeking the best cafe in inner North Melbourne, your search ends at UGO Fitzroy. UGO Cucina Popolare is ready to welcome you from Friday to Sunday, 8am-3pm, at 369… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, FOOD & DRINK

Tags: UGO Fitzroy

Sashay into Silly Season with The Imperial Erskineville’s Fancy Feast Drag Brunches

by James Banham

Posted: 04/11/2023

Prepare yourselves, Sydney! The iconic LGBTQIA+ venue, The Imperial Erskineville, known for its colourful entertainment and strong connection to the Inner West community, is set to redefine your weekend experience. Launching on the 4th of November, The Impy’s Fancy Feast Drag Brunches are promising a weekend that’s more fabulous than you could ever imagine. What does a typical Saturday at The Imperial look like? Picture an afternoon of decadent pleasures; a dynamic spectacle of Sydney’s beloved drag talents commanding the stage; a spread of delectable dishes that cater to every palate, whether you’re a vegetarian or omnivore; and a selection of luscious cocktails to toast with. The Imperial Erskineville has it all, and it’s all served with a side of electrifying atmosphere. Larger groups are invited to savour the ‘Fancy Feast Menu,’ priced at $50pp for vegetarians and $55pp for omnivores. For smaller assemblages of 4-7 guests, an exquisite ala carte selection from The Imperial’s new Main Bar menu awaits, featuring pub classics and indulgent dishes with a Mediterranean twist. And let’s not forget the $15 cocktail jug specials, the perfect accessory to your thrilling Saturday afternoon. Timed impeccably for the festive silly season, The Imperial’s Fancy Feast Drag Brunch is your golden ticket to a leisurely afternoon filled with drag artistry and culinary delights. To become part of this immersive experience, make your reservation at https://imperialerskineville.com.au/fancy-feast/. Felicitating creativity, self-expression, and inclusivity, The Imperial Erskineville, a beacon of the Inner West, continues to offer exceptional entertainment and meaningful connections to the community. Don’t miss out… Read More

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

Tags: Best drag brunches Sydney, Drag brunch, drag queens, Drag queens Sydney, Erskineville, imperial hotel, Sydney drag brunches

Christmas puddings for the community: Lion’s Christmas cake

by James Banham

Posted: 04/11/2023

As the festive season approaches, Australia’s favourite Christmas treat makes its eagerly anticipated return. The iconic Lions Australia Christmas cakes, embraced by thousands of households across the country for their exceptional quality and flavoursome taste, are back on sale, with all proceeds going back to the Lions Clubs and their commendable initiatives nationwide. These cakes aren’t just renowned for their delectable taste and high-quality ingredients, featuring a sumptuous recipe packed with 50% fruit. What truly sets these Christmas cakes apart is their heart-warming purpose. By purchasing a Lions Christmas Cake, you aren’t just indulging your festive palate, but also actively contributing to a worthy cause. Lions Australia uses the proceeds from the Lions Christmas Cake to fund a variety of crucial projects in the community. Each club that participates in the program gets to use the profits towards a Lions project or donate it back to their local communities, according to Lions Australia CEO, Rob Oerlemans. The focus in recent years has been on emergency and disaster relief activities, particularly helping communities rebuild and recover in the aftermath of fires and floods. Since the introduction of the first 1-pound cake back in 1965, Lions Christmas cakes and puddings have become the organisation’s most significant annual fundraiser. To date, they have successfully raised over $70 million to drive a range of community programs and projects across Australia. The Lions clubs, which started their journey over 75 years ago in Lismore, have now grown into Australia’s largest service organisation, boasting over 1200 clubs nationwide. Their key focus… Read More

Category: FOOD & DRINK, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, LIFESTYLE

Tags: Christmas cake, Christmas dessert, Christmas pudding

Melbourne’s best pubs and restaurants for Christmas Day dining

by THE F

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

Tags: Christmas Day pubs, Melbourne pubs, Pubs open for Christmas

Experience the Culinary Excellence at Alfie’s: Sydney’s Premier Steakhouse and Bar

by James Banham

Posted: 18/10/2023

Alfie’s, a game changer in the Sydney restaurant scene, is now open. Reimagining the steakhouse model, this new venue from Liquid & Larder (the minds behind Bistecca, The Gidley, The Rover) serves up high-quality steak with an injection of charm and swagger. Alfie’s aims to disrupt the CBD’s trend of American steakhouses, offering an affordable, premium alternative. James Bradey, co-founder and director of Liquid and Larder, claims they are breaking the mould with Alfie’s, offering their signature high-quality food and drink in a fast-paced, vibrant setting. The restaurant, located on Bligh Street, is styled after the edgy underbelly of East London and offers a full sensory experience. The menu, curated by executive chef Pip Pratt and head chef Matt Thomson, is executed to perfection, featuring dishes like a $38, 220g Riverine sirloin, wet and dry aged on site for maximum flavour, and guaranteed to grace your table within 15 minutes of ordering. Side dishes designed to complement the perfect cut include Alfie’s bubble and squeak slaw, roast mushrooms, fire-roasted baby carrots, and hot chips with chip shop curry sauce. For the wine enthusiasts, Group Sommelier Kyle Poole’s list is filled with organic and sustainable classics. And for the early finishers, there’s a rotisserie ‘Beefetta’ special, Alfie’s take on porchetta, slowly cooked for five hours each day and available from 5pm each night. The striking bar is a destination in its own right, offering a daily happy hour from 4-6pm, with DJs spinning old UK grime and hip hop Wednesday to Saturday from 6-10pm. The drinks… Read More

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

Tags: Alfie's, Alfies Sydney, Best Sydney restaurant, New Sydney restaurant, sydney restaurants

The Ambry Sydney: worth a visit?

by James Banham

Posted: 16/10/2023

With its grand opening, The Ambry is set to redefine the Eastern Suburbs dining scene with its unique blend of tradition and innovation. From the moment you step through the grand glass frontage, you are enveloped in a world of culinary delights and an atmosphere of grandeur. The inviting lounge area and central bar present a myriad of choices for relaxation, whether you wish to enjoy a pint, a glass of wine, or indulge in a classic cocktail concoction from the impressive bar menu. Chef Carlo Della Sala, a native of Italy, expertly crafts each dish with a perfect blend of traditional Italian flavours and the finest Australian ingredients. The result is a gastronomic journey that takes you through a repertoire of club classics and Italian-inspired delicacies that tantalize your taste buds and leave you yearning for more. The Ambry not only promises an unforgettable dining experience but also a memorable journey that transcends beyond the meal. So whether you are planning a romantic dinner, a festive celebration or a casual night out, The Ambry guarantees to leave an indelible impression that lingers long after the meal is over. Experience the extraordinary transformation of the Eastern Suburbs culinary scene with The Ambry at Waverley Greens. Come, join us for a culinary journey that is as unforgettable as the view. We look forward to crafting memorable experiences with you in this haven for all occasions. With The Ambry, the culinary scene of the Eastern Suburbs is not just poised for transformation; it has arrived. More info… Read More

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

Tags: Ambry, best sydney restaurants, sydney restaurants

Category: AUSTRALIAN FOOD