Category: FOOD & DRINK

Celebrate the cooler months at Baker Bleu

Cake

Baker Bleu is embracing the chill of the cooler months by introducing a delightful range of seasonal baked goods that promise to warm hearts and tickle taste buds. The star attractions include a reimagined Portuguese custard tart and an exquisitely crafted cinnamon scroll, both expertly baked by Baker Bleu’s dedicated team. With their signature laminated sourdough pastry enveloping a sumptuous custard mixture, the custard tarts have become an instant hit, flying off the shelves since they debuted as a winter bestseller. “Sourdough is our signature and so we wanted to bring our own spin on the classic custard tart. The result is something between the popular Portuguese pastel de nata and Chinese egg tart with a Baker Bleu touch,” comments baker and owner Mike Russell. The overwhelming demand saw these tarts quickly garnering a loyal following, a testament to their irresistible appeal. Complementing the custard tarts is the iconic cinnamon scroll, executed to perfection by Baker Bleu’s talented pastry chefs from Melbourne and Sydney. Made with Wholegrain Milling flour sourced from New South Wales, their proven yeasted dough is layered generously with Copper Tree Farms butter and cinnamon sugar, and finished with a luscious sour cream and cinnamon icing. This delightful treat pairs beautifully with a weekend coffee or a cozy catch-up with friends over baked goodies. “We’re excited for these products to land with our customers, new and returning, as they really showcase the talent and creativity of our pastry chefs and are the perfect comforting pick-me-up on these colder days,” adds Mike Russell…. Read More

The Smith’s creative series in Melbourne with Cabaret & Canvas

Cabaret Canvas @zennieshia Zennieshia Butts 8

Melburnians seeking a unique and vibrant Friday night experience need look no further than The Smith’s new Creative Series. Starting with the captivating event “Cabaret & Canvas” on August 9th, guests are invited to indulge in an evening of artistic expression, entertainment, and indulgence. An artistic affair like no other On select Fridays throughout August and September, The Smith will host a series of enchanting events that combine the allure of cabaret with the creativity of life drawing. Featuring talented cabaret models such as Evana De Lune and Nellie Noble, guests will have the opportunity to channel their inner artist under the guidance of an expert life drawing mentor. All sketching materials will be provided, ensuring that attendees can fully immerse themselves in the creative process. A feast for the senses In addition to the artistic offerings, guests can expect a sensory feast with a baby cocktail upon arrival, delectable sharing platters, and a generous two-hour selection of bottomless drinks. From reds, whites, rosé, and sparkling wines to house lager, cider, and non-alcoholic options, there is something to suit every palate and preference. Setting the Stage for Creativity The venue for Cabaret & Canvas, The Smith’s stunning Atrium, has undergone a captivating transformation. Adorned with striking red florals that drape from the ceiling, create archways, and adorn tables, the space exudes a burlesque-style ambiance. Guests are sure to find the perfect photo opportunity amidst this lavish floral backdrop. Event details: Embrace your artistic side The Smith’s Creative Series promises an array of artistic experiences beyond… Read More

Hunter Valley winery you need to visit

Harkham Launch Sardine Jatz Snack NikkiTo fish cracker

Nestled in the heart of New South Wales, the Hunter Valley is a premier destination for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Known for its sprawling vineyards, the region boasts some of Australia’s finest wines and offers visitors a chance to tour world-renowned wineries. Beyond its wine heritage, the Hunter Valley is also home to stunning landscapes, including rolling hills and lush countryside that provide a perfect backdrop for outdoor activities such as hot air ballooning, horseback riding, and hiking. With charming villages, gourmet restaurants, and vibrant local culture, the Hunter Valley promises an unforgettable escape for travellers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Nestled in the heart of New South Wales, the Hunter Valley is a premier destination for wine enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Known for its sprawling vineyards, the region boasts some of Australia’s finest wines and offers visitors a chance to tour world-renowned wineries. Among these, the much-loved Hunter Valley winery, Harkham, is set to open a restaurant on their grounds on Thursday 18 July. The restaurant will have a relaxed atmosphere, with a simple menu designed for sharing and live music from local talent on Saturdays from 3-6pm. Harkham is a small, family-owned and operated winery set in the heart of the Hunter Valley, overlooking the picturesque Brokenback Range. Here, the focus is on small batch single-vineyard varietal wines which are hand-harvested and left to ferment with minimal intervention. The Harkham family released their first vintage in 2005, and were the first Hunter Valley winery to produce natural and orange wines,… Read More

Best restaurants to visit in SA this winter

Food plate

Winter’s chill often makes it hard to leave the comfort of home, even on weekends. But what if you could step into a world of cosy atmospheres and dishes that not only warm your body but also your soul? Here are some of the best places in SA to hit the winter mark. Chianti Inspired by Tuscany’s Chianti region, this restaurant is a nostalgic haven where generations return for authentic Italian fare. The warm interior, featuring bluestone, dark timber panelling, and immaculate white napery, is complemented by contemporary touches. Chianti’s menu blends classic Italian flavours with innovative touches, using the finest Australian ingredients sourced from trusted local producers. Winter warmers on the menu: Rozelle’s With panoramic windows overlooking the gardens, the city, and the ocean, Rozelle’s offers a warm, inviting interior perfect for a lazy long lunch. Located at Carrick Hill, it serves a taste of northern Italy amid historical elegance. Enjoy dishes like artichoke fritti, baked rigatoni alla vodka, and signature limoncello cannoli while taking in views from the estate’s lush greenery to Adelaide’s vibrant cityscape. Winter warmers on the menu: Magill Estate Set against the historic backdrop of Penfolds, this restaurant combines modern architecture with the picturesque Adelaide foothills. The warm and elegant interior, along with the finest collection of wines, creates one of Australia’s premier food and wine experiences. Enjoy contemporary cuisine and exemplary service in this cozy setting. Winter warmers on the menu: The Alchemists’ Kitchen The Alchemists’ Kitchen combines the past with a modern twist, featuring unique wines, magical cocktails,… Read More

Mister Bianco’s Annual Truffle Dinner

Jamies Italian restaurant Sydney truffles

Mister Bianco is excited to announce its much-anticipated annual truffle dinner, which will be held for the first time at the new Cotham Road location on Tuesday, 13th August. Renowned for crafting an exquisite menu each year, owner and chef Joe Vargetto will once again impress diners with dishes that highlight premium local Buxton black truffles. This truly unique dining experience promises to be a culinary delight, featuring a welcome cocktail followed by a carefully curated four-course degustation menu. Each course will be perfectly paired with wines selected by Patrick Walsh from CellarHand to enhance the flavors of the delectable truffle-infused creations. Guests attending Mister Bianco’s Truffle Dinner will not only indulge in a luxurious meal but also have the chance to win a new MINI for a weekend, thanks to MINI Doncaster. This added incentive makes for an even more special and exciting evening. Truffle Dinner Menu Tuesday, 13th August, 6.30 pm – $149 per person Bookings To secure your spot at this extraordinary event, please make a reservation via the Mister Bianco website. This exclusive dinner is sure to sell out quickly, so be sure to book early and experience an unforgettable evening of truffle-infused gastronomy.

Allta does good Korean cuisine in Sydney

Allts Sydney Korean

Sydney is bracing itself for a culinary revelation as Allta, a degustation restaurant, is set to grace the dining scene on July 10th. This new addition promises to whisk guests away on a gastronomic adventure like no other, blending traditional Korean flavours with a touch of modern flair. At the heart of Allta’s allure is a meticulously curated 15-course menu that reads like poetry on a plate. Each dish, lovingly crafted and personally served by the esteemed Executive Chef Jung-Su Chang, is a testament to the culinary expertise behind Allta. As part of the esteemed Firestone group, helmed by Jangho So and Sunyoung Kim, Allta aims to redefine the perception of Korean cuisine in Sydney while offering patrons an unparalleled dining experience. Prepare your taste buds for a symphony of flavours with creations like the Tuna Bite, a marriage of cured tuna, grilled vegetables, and nori, or the tantalising Beef Tartare, featuring crispy taro, barley Doen-jang, and kimchi. Not to be missed are the exquisite Sweet Prawn, elevated with perilla oil, cured yolk, and capsicum, and the divine dessert, Makgeolli & Rice, a harmonious blend of makgeolli sorbet, rice granita, and pear. In the words of Chef Jung-Su Chang, “Allta transcends mere dining; it embodies a celebration of Korean culinary artistry and culture. Each dish narrates a tale—a fusion of tradition and modernity, a tribute to the kaleidoscope of flavours that define Korean gastronomy.” Beyond its culinary prowess, Allta exudes an ambiance of refined simplicity, where minimalism meets sophistication. The decor, awash with monochromatic tones… Read More

Executive Head Chef Joanne Lee shares 30 years of Korean cooking secrets

Arisun Flatlay

Joanne Lee, the culinary mastermind behind Sydney’s renowned Korean venues Arisun and Butcher’s Buffet, boasts over 32 years of experience in the kitchen. We had the honour of enjoying her tutelage and discovering her secrets to making Korean cooking easy, and now we’ll share the recipes with you! As the Executive Group Chef for Wannian Alliance, Joanne has become a celebrated figure in the culinary world, blending traditional Korean flavours with modern twists. Born in South Korea and relocating to Australia in 2005, Joanne’s journey began in her family kitchen, where she discovered her passion for cooking. Her formal education at Kyung Hee Hotel College and subsequent positions at prestigious hotels in Seoul and Sydney have shaped her into the chef she is today. We recently had the pleasure of attending one of Joanne’s cooking classes, a delightful experience that offered a deep dive into Korean cuisine. Her philosophy of ‘soul food’—meals that are both nourishing and comforting—was evident in every dish we prepared. Joanne’s leadership and mentorship shine in her kitchens, fostering an environment of creativity and excellence. Joanne’s secret recipe: Japchae Serving Size: 2 Ingredients: Sweet Potato Noodles cooked | 360g Noodle Dressing | 30g Cooked Vegetables | 150g To Make Japchae Joanne’s expert touch and dedication to her craft make every meal at Arisun and Butcher’s Buffet a memorable experience. Her ability to blend tradition with innovation continues to delight diners and inspire aspiring chefs worldwide.

Chef of the month is Danielle Alvarez in Sydney

Danielle Alvarez Spicy Tuna Melt Toastie 2

Danielle Alvarez is one of Australia’s most celebrated female chefs who has gained her passion for farm-to-table cooking from an impeccable pedigree of restaurants both in the US and Australia. With her time as the creative visionary behind Fred’s in Paddington, Danielle’s cooking style and produce-driven ethos were the cornerstones of the restaurant’s success. Today, she brings her culinary brilliance to the Yallamundi Rooms at the Sydney Opera House as the culinary director. A long-standing friend of the social enterprise Two Good, Danielle has contributed to their latest cookbook, Change the Course, and has recently designed the menu for the latest LOAM x Two Good Chef Dinner Series event. Through the Chef of the Month (COTM) program, Two Good partners with top chefs to create delicious menus served at their cafe in Darlinghurst’s Yirranma Place. These meals are also available for purchase through their catering service, with all proceeds supporting at-risk women affected by domestic violence, homelessness, and trauma, helping them find employment. Danielle’s menu for Two Good includes an enticing selection: the Spicy Tuna Melt Toastie ($16), Pumpkin, Curry Leaf & Coconut Soup with Roti ($14), and Brown Butter, Macadamia & White Chocolate Blondies ($6.50). The June COTM menu by Danielle Alvarez is now available at Two Good’s cafe located at 262 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst, or online at Two Good Catering. Through her remarkable contributions, Danielle Alvarez continues to inspire not just by her culinary expertise but also by her unwavering commitment to social good, making a tangible difference in the lives of many.