Category: FOOD & DRINK

Williamstown pub favourite is reopening

Williamstown pub KDP003 MorningStar 008 MichaelPham HighRes

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Posted: 04/11/2024

In the bustling heart of Williamstown, a cherished local landmark is making a triumphant return. The Morning Star Hotel, a beloved community hub since 1896, is reopening its doors this October, ushering in a refreshing and elevated take on the classic pub experience that promises to delight both long-time patrons and new visitors alike. Spearheaded by a passionate trio of publicans—Stephen Mitchell of The Bridge Hotel fame, Matt Vero known for the Marquis of Lorne and Mt Erica, and Williamstown local Aaron Onofretchook—the revitalised Morning Star Hotel is set to become a cornerstone of the community once more. “Our vision for reopening this venue was to bring pub culture back to Williamstown while offering a refined yet approachable dining destination that champions our local suppliers and growers,” says Mitchell. Leading the culinary charge is Head Chef Ben Isaacs, formerly of Stomping Ground and Melbourne Pub Group. Isaacs has crafted a menu that puts a sophisticated spin on beloved Australian classics. Diners can expect to indulge in pub favourites such as the signature chicken parma and pork tomahawk steak, alongside more refined offerings like spice-crusted potato gratin with caramelised onion and matbucha, or a vibrant spring vegetable orecchiette with broad beans, asparagus, salsa verde, and salted ricotta. The drinks menu is equally impressive, featuring a harmonious blend of well-loved favourites and unique local brews. A standout is the bespoke ‘Morning Star’ Pilsner, created in collaboration with Melbourne’s own Stomping Ground brewery. This, along with a rotating selection of local brews from eight taps and a wine… Read More

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

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New things to do in Burwood with Linger Longer weekends

Burwood outside

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Posted: 04/11/2024

Kickstart your weekends early this summer with the vibrant Linger Longer Weekends at Burwood Brickworks Shopping Centre, located in the heart of Burwood East, Melbourne. From 17 October until 22 December, the centre is transforming into a bustling hub of entertainment and culinary delights, offering a perfect blend of dining specials, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities every Wednesday to Sunday. Here’s why Burwood Brickworks is your ultimate destination to unwind and enjoy: The Supper Club Once the movie credits begin to roll, don’t rush home just yet. The Supper Club invites you to savour the night with post-movie late-night bites from Thursday to Sunday. Moviegoers at Reading Cinemas can indulge in a variety of treats at Eat Street venues. How about a Roasted Espresso Affogato at New Northcote Brewhouse or Ichiro’s Matcha Cheesecake paired with a soothing matcha latte? For those craving something savoury, dive into Midnight Spaghetti at Town and Country Pizza or relish a Midnight Edition Signature Hot Pot from Little Monkey Hot Pot. And here’s the cherry on top—customers with a full-priced movie ticket receive an exclusive $10 Supper Club voucher valid at participating restaurants. The Supper Club menu, featuring both limited-edition and regular items, is available to everyone from 5pm until close. Friday Night Live Every Friday evening, from 5 pm onwards, Eat Street becomes the perfect venue to shake off the week with Friday Night Live. Expect an abundance of live music, roaming performers, and interactive workshops. Join the Halloween excitement with trick-or-treating in participating stores or a ‘Fashions on… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, MELBOURNE

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Spice Temple Sydney is open again

Spice Temple Sydney

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Posted: 04/11/2024

Sydney’s culinary gem, Spice Temple, has reopened its doors, unveiling a stylish new chapter in its illustrious 15-year journey. This beloved establishment, tucked away in a moody underground setting, has been pivotal in redefining modern Chinese cuisine in Australia. With its latest transformation, Spice Temple promises an experience that tantalises the senses while honouring its rich heritage. Under the expert guidance of Executive Chef Andy Evans, who has been at the helm since the restaurant’s inception, Spice Temple has introduced a series of exciting changes. The revamped menu offers a nostalgic nod to Chinese cuisine of the 1980s, featuring dishes like pork and prawn omelette, Yunnan pineapple fried rice with bacon, and Hong Kong chicken curry. These additions complement the restaurant’s original menu, inviting diners on a culinary journey through time and taste. This evolution isn’t just limited to the plate. Evans has crafted a sensory-led dining experience that goes beyond the conventional. The aroma of Chinese spices fills the air, setting the stage for a theatrical dining experience. Live cooking stations have been introduced, allowing guests to witness the artistry behind each dish, particularly the new array of hot pots crafted in full view of diners. The restaurant’s interiors have also undergone a sophisticated makeover, blending modern elegance with touches of tradition. Elements of burnt wood, distressed metal, brass accents, black exposed brick, and neon red highlights come together to create an energetic and chic atmosphere. The new design offers a refreshed aesthetic that enhances the overall dining experience, making every visit a feast… Read More

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

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Sebastian beach bar and deck has your name on it

Sebastian bar

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Updated: 01/11/2024

Ah, summer in Melbourne—the sun is out, the beaches are calling, and the expansive deck at Williamstown’s Sebastian is officially open for the season. If you haven’t heard the buzz yet, this seaside gem is the talk of the town, and with good reason. Nestled on the vibrant Williamstown Beach, Sebastian offers a beachside retreat just a stone’s throw from the city, where the only thing you’re required to do is kick back, sip on a cocktail, and let your worries drift away with the tide. Once upon a time, this spot was the heritage-listed Williamstown Bathing Pavilion, a local treasure dating back to the 1930s. Fast forward to today, and it’s been transformed by co-owners Dave Parker, Alex Brawn, and Kelly Brawn into a lively venue inspired by none other than San Sebastián’s famous culinary scene. Think pintxos bars, delicious Spanish-inspired dishes, and a vibe that’s as relaxed as it is vibrant. It’s like having a bit of the Basque coast right here in Melbourne. To mark their sixth year—and the start of what promises to be a fabulous summer—Sebastian is throwing a deck party on Saturday, 23 November. Expect an evening of live music, a sunset DJ setting the mood, and some delightful specials to keep everyone entertained. We’re talking $6 sangrias, $2 oysters, buckets of beer, and even choc tops for the sweet tooths among us. It’s a day out at the beach, but with flair! As for the menu, prepare to indulge. On the deck, you can savour elevated Spanish classics… Read More

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

Your favourite whiskey – if it were an Italian dessert

Pannetone whiskey

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Updated: 01/11/2024

Gather ’round, whisky aficionados, because Starward has unveiled a festive treat that’s about to warm your heart—and your glass. Introducing Starward Panettone Whisky, a limited release that’s as much a celebration of flavour as it is of family traditions. If you’re looking for a drink that embodies the spirit of an Australian Christmas, this might just be your new holiday staple. Drawing inspiration from founder David Vitale’s Sicilian Australian heritage, this whisky captures the essence of panettone, that beloved Italian Christmas cake. It’s a rich yet delicate concoction, offering notes of sticky raisins, almonds, pineapple, and a whisper of oak. Imagine the aroma of tropical fruits from Starward’s Two-Fold blend mingling with golden syrup and toasted almonds, with just a hint of raisins—it’s like Christmas in a bottle. The magic doesn’t stop at the nose. Each sip welcomes you with fruit-forward and toasty characteristics, reminiscent of demerara, Christmas pudding, and toffee. The finish? Long and full-bodied, with lingering notes of sticky dried fruits and vanilla, as if you’ve just nibbled on a slice of the finest panettone. Starward Panettone is more than just a whisky; it’s a nod to Vitale’s cherished family gatherings, where his mother’s panettone was a festive table staple. As Vitale puts it, “Starward Panettone is a ‘raise of the glass’ to the beautiful memories made over the festive season.” It’s a whisky that invites you to create your own holiday traditions, whether you enjoy it neat, on the rocks, or stirred down in a Panettone Old Fashioned. This delightful dram is… Read More

Category: FOOD & DRINK

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Try The Backyard pub in Melbourne this summer

Food bowls

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Posted: 28/10/2024

Ah, Melbourne in the summer. The city comes alive with its cultural tapestry weaving together the best of art, music, and, of course, a good pint. Just when you thought Melbourne’s summer scene couldn’t get any better, along comes The Backyard – a new outdoor pop-up venue that’s set to become your summer obsession. Located in the heart of Eastland’s Town Square, The Backyard is a collaboration between two legends of Melbourne’s hospitality scene: The Suburban and Mountain Culture Beer Co. This dynamic duo has come together to create a space that screams good vibes and great stories. Picture this: a courtyard with a laidback urban atmosphere, heritage-listed street art as your backdrop, and the hypnotic hum of live music filling the air. It’s like walking into a friend’s backyard, if your friend happened to be an artistic genius who threw epic parties. This pop-up isn’t just about the looks; it’s got substance too. With Mountain Culture Beer Co. bringing their award-winning craft beers to the taps, you’re guaranteed a taste sensation. These guys have been voted the best in the business at the GABS Hottest 100 for the past two years, so they definitely know their hops from their malts. And if you’re more of a wine or cocktail aficionado, The Backyard’s got you covered with a selection of local wines and expertly crafted cocktails. “We are pumped to be able to show off this incredible outdoor space,” says Andy Croucher, director of The Suburban. It’s not just about the drinks; it’s about the… Read More

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

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Lotus Bowral at Park Proxi Gibraltar Bowral Now Open

Food plate table

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Posted: 28/10/2024

If the country is your thing and food isn’t a far off second, then news of the Southern Highlands and its new culinary jackpot is for you. Seibu Prince Hotels & Resorts has rolled out the red carpet for its spanking new gastronomic extravaganza, Lotus Bowral, nestling in Park Proxi Gibraltar Bowral. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill dining experience; we’re talking a swanky partnership with none other than the celebrated Lotus Dining Group. The result? A groundbreaking Asian feast complete with a cheeky local flourish to tease those taste buds. Not content with just dishing out crowd-pleasers from the Lotus catalogue, they’ve gone ahead and concocted fresh menu options that showcase the Southern Highlands’ stellar produce. And if you think that’s all, Marilo steps onto the scene with a fusion flair, adding panache to everything from in-room dining to conference nibbles. Leading this culinary expedition is Executive Chef Tiffany Jones, teaming up with Lotus’ very own Steve Wu. Their mission? To spotlight local ingredients while fostering talent in the hospitality world – no pressure. Marilo isn’t just stopping at Asian delights either; they’re serving up a smorgasbord of contemporary Australian cuisine, all thoughtfully crafted to please everyone from the pickiest eaters to the most adventurous gastronomes. For those of you who can’t get enough, Lotus plans to be a regular feature at breakfasts, lunches, and dinners, aiming to dazzle the Highlands food scene. Oh, and did I mention the picnic baskets? Perfect for those idyllic explorations, plus there’s a bevy of takeaway choices right at the… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, FOOD & DRINK

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Why you should revisit Aria on Sydney Harbour next date night

Food Aria SpringSummer2024 JurassicQuail 2

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Posted: 23/10/2024

After a quarter-century of dazzling Sydney’s fine dining scene, Aria is shaking things up with a fresh approach to dining that’s as bold as a kangaroo on caffeine. This iconic restaurant, helmed by culinary maestro Matt Moran and the Solotel group, is renowned for its contemporary Australian flair, and it’s now embracing a new chapter with a dynamic menu that promises to keep diners on their toes. Gone are the days of the prescriptive seasonal menu. Instead, Aria is rolling out a flexible array of dining options that cater to both the casual lunch crowd and the full-blown gastronomy enthusiasts. Whether you’re popping in for a two-course lunch or gearing up for an eight-course culinary marathon, Aria’s new offerings are designed to accommodate any appetite. The choices are varied: a two-course menu at $120 per person for a quick yet sumptuous bite, a three-course at $180 for a more rounded experience, or dive into the five-course ($240) and eight-course ($290) tasting menus for a complete sensory journey. Restaurateur Matt Moran shared his excitement about this evolution, saying, “Aria was created with the vision of bringing an exceptional dining experience to Sydney; 25 years on and we are still creating unforgettable experiences for those who dine with us. The eight-course menu will include a few surprises that do not feature on the main menu, providing a true taste of our team’s talent.” A significant shift also sees Aria’s kitchen aligning with Australia’s top producers, ensuring the freshest hyper-seasonal produce graces their plates. This means more frequent… Read More

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

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Amatrice Rooftop Restaurant open in Melbourne

AmatriceRooftop lr 175 Melbourne restaurant dining room

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Posted: 21/10/2024

Perched atop Cremorne’s tallest building, the much-anticipated Amatrice Rooftop Restaurant is now open, ready to welcome locals and Melburnians alike. Offering spectacular views of the city skyline, this modern-Italian dining destination promises a unique experience in the heart of Cremorne. Situated on the rooftop of Cubitt Place at 16 Stephenson Street, Amatrice Rooftop Restaurant is the crowning jewel following its sister venue, Caffé Amatrice, which opened on the ground floor in September. Behind this Italian venture are hospitality veterans Dave Parker, along with Kelly and Alex Brawn, who have drawn inspiration from the picturesque Italian village of Amatrice. “We’re excited to be bringing an offering to Cremorne that’s wanted and needed. Melbourne is known for its rooftop bars, but Amatrice Rooftop Restaurant will be doing things a little differently,” says co-owner Alex Brawn. “First and foremost – we’re a restaurant, the dining offer is the hero and in equal merit to the view, it’s central to the venue experience.” Accessed via a stylish lift lobby designed by Splinter Society Architecture, the venue reaches the tenth floor where award-winning interior designer Brahman Perera has crafted an elegant setting. The design nods to the chic allure of globally recognised venues like the Soho House rooftops, featuring imported red marble tables, red velvet banquette seating, and aqua subway tiles. Sculptural lighting and overhanging pendant shades from Arturo Alvarez add layers of sophistication, while olive trees and a retractable glass roof enhance the indoor-outdoor ambience. Leading the kitchen is Head Chef Vincenzo Di Giovanniello, whose Italian heritage shines through… Read More

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

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New restaurant to try in Sydney: Oribu on Church Street

Oribu Japanese SIGNATURE CRISPY RICE QUARTET 2

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Posted: 21/10/2024

Nestled in the heart of Church Street’s esteemed Heritage Precinct, Oribu is embarking on an exciting new chapter, unveiling not just one, but three culinary maestros at its helm. This dynamic trio of head chefs—Jay Lee, Jaybert Teves, and Bryan Paul Nery—bring their unique flair and expertise to the kitchen, introducing a vibrant new spring-summer menu, Natsu no Yume – Summer Dream. Under the guidance of these chefs, Oribu’s kitchen transforms into a harmonious symphony of flavours, where each chef’s individual style melds into a menu that is truly greater than the sum of its parts. Jaybert Teves, an artist in sashimi, leverages his experience from Sokyo to blend classic techniques with seasonal flavours. His creations, such as the watermelon-cured snapper and mango-dressed tuna, offer a refreshing twist on traditional sashimi, capturing the summer essence in every bite. Taking charge of the hot food station, Jay Lee infuses his fine dining prowess from Aria into dishes that celebrate local produce with Japanese finesse. A highlight from his repertoire includes the lobster tail, elegantly paired with charred lemon, asparagus, and a miso beurre blanc, showcasing his skill in harmonising robust flavours with refined presentation. Bringing a playful Southeast Asian influence to the mix, Bryan Paul Nery crafts inventive small plates designed to surprise and delight. His tempura prawn taco with mango salsa and spicy tuna maki are not only visually captivating but also perfectly balance taste and texture. Oribu continues to delight with its popular tasting menus, offering two meticulously curated 10-course journeys. The Signature Tasting… Read More

Category: FOOD & DRINK, ASIAN FOOD, LIFESTYLE

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