Category: FOOD & DRINK

Johnnie Walker introduces blue room: a luxury whisky tasting experience in Sydney

Posted: 22/11/2023

As the Christmas season draws near, a unique festive treat awaits shoppers in Sydney. Johnnie Walker, the legendary blender of fine whiskies, has opened the doors to the Blue Room. This opulent whisky tasting experience, nestled in the heart of Pitt Street Mall, introduces an indulgent twist to the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping12. This marks the first time a bar-style experience has been introduced in Sydney’s inner-city shopping precinct. The Blue Room is a tranquil oasis amidst the festive frenzy, offering Scotch lovers, first-time taste-testers, and gift-givers a chance to savour the rich flavours of Johnnie Walker’s extensive award-winning range, including the venue’s namesake – Johnnie Walker Blue Label12. From Friday 17 November to Friday 29 December, the Blue Room invites shoppers to swap their usual gift shopping routine for a new festive tradition at the Ritual Bar. This ornate centrepiece of the Blue Room offers guided tastings hosted by expert whisky connoisseurs12. After savouring a tasting at the Ritual Bar, guests can delve into Johnnie Walker’s storied history, explore its most popular premium selection, including limited-edition and rare varieties such as the Johnnie Walker Blue Label Lunar New Year Edition and prestigious John Walker & Sons King George V1. Guests can also purchase bottles for themselves or as thoughtful gifts1. To enhance the tasting experience, specially designed glassware that highlights the unique flavours of the whisky will be available. Personalised engraving adds a special touch1. Melissa Barry, Marketing Manager for Johnnie Walker Australia, expressed her excitement about this new venture: “We’re delighted… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, FOOD & DRINK

Tags: sydney, Whiskey bar

Patrón is shouting Sydney-siders 10,000 caviar bumps with their next tequila cocktail

by Danielle Kirk

Posted: 19/11/2023

If you thought tequila was tasty enough, try elevating it with a bump of caviar. Yes, you read that right! To celebrate the fast approach of summer and the launch of the world’s first quadruple-distilled prestige tequila PATRÓN EL CIELO, Patrón has teamed up with some of Sydney’s coolest Mexican bars and restaurants to give away 10,000 luxe Umai Heritage caviar bumps with every PATRÓN EL CIELO cocktail from a limited-edition menu. Naturally we had to sample this from our favourite tequila-joint, Taqiza (who have a new home in Bondi that is even prettier than the first on!). Trying the PATRÓN EL CIELO on the rocks was a heady, smooth and sweet experience, that was only heightened by the saltiness of the caviar. The perfect pairing nobody knows about, but now we can’t stop thinking of. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Milpa Collective (@milpa.collective) If straight tequila isn’t your jam (no matter how smooth), there are also two delicious PATRÓN EL CIELO cocktails on the menu: If you want to live the luxe life and experience the new release from Patrón with some caviar, you can do so for a limited time from the following Milpa Collective Mexican venues:

Category: LIFESTYLE, FOOD & DRINK, MEXICAN FOOD

Tags: caviar, patron, patron el cielo, Taqiza, tequila

A fresh taste of Vietnam at St. Cloud Eating House

St Cloud KDPO 6th October GRIFFIN SIMM Finals 33 Vietnamese asian food chopsticks

by James Banham

Posted: 16/11/2023

This month, the renowned St. Cloud Eating House in Hawthorn East breathes new life into its culinary offering. The restaurant, located at 644 Burwood Road, is set to tantalise tastebuds with an explosion of Vietnamese flavours, thanks to celebrated chef Jerry Mai. Since its inception in 2015, St. Cloud Eating House, under the stewardship of hospitality veteran James Klapanis, has maintained its commitment to serving ferociously fresh Vietnamese cuisine to the denizens of Melbourne. The exciting and vibrant menu revamp is spearheaded by none other than the remarkable Jerry Mai, known for her culinary masterpieces at Pho Nom, Annam, and Bia Hoi Beer Hall. Mai’s flair for Vietnamese cuisine is widely acclaimed, and she now brings her unique touch to the St. Cloud Eating House. The restaurant’s new culinary journey is further bolstered by the recent collaboration between Klapanis and Angie Giannakodakis, stalwarts of the Melbourne hospitality scene. This partnership brings a renewed focus on generosity – striving to put the hospitality back in hospitality, as Giannakodakis puts it. St. Cloud’s refreshed food ethos is all about sharing and savouring every bite. Jerry Mai has expertly curated a menu that balances familiar Vietnamese flavours with unexpected new elements. Diners can expect a tantalising array of small plates, from grilled scallops with wild onion butter and nuoc mam to sticky lamb ribs with tamarind caramel. A highlight includes an irresistible beef cheek green curry— a testament to Mai’s Thai culinary influences. For those with a sweet tooth, the restaurant offers a duo of indulgent desserts —… Read More

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

Tags: St Cloud Eating House, Vietnamese food

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

Art of perfect pasta: a guide to authentic Italian cuisine

pexels cottonbro studio 4057750 pasta bowl table hands

by James Banham

Posted: 11/11/2023

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, the secret to great pasta lies in simplicity and quality. At 400 Gradi, they have honed the pasta-making process to create mouth-watering dishes that our patrons simply can’t get enough of. Remember, the key to perfect pasta is attention to detail, patience, and love for the process. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s bring the charm of Italian cooking right into your kitchen!

Category: LIFESTYLE, FOOD & DRINK, ITALIAN FOOD

Tags: 400 gradi pasta class, how to cook pasta, pasta

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

Summer holiday idea: Hidden Gems of New Zealand’s Wine Country

Driving through the Adelaide Barossa wine vineyards

by James Banham

Posted: 06/11/2023

Welcome, wine connoisseurs and enthusiasts, to an unforgettable journey through the verdant landscapes and rolling hills of New Zealand — a country globally acclaimed for its exceptional wines. With its diverse microclimates, unique soil profiles, and unyielding commitment to quality, New Zealand has positioned itself as a powerhouse in the world of viticulture. Our guide to the best wineries in the country will unveil the rich tapestry of experiences that await, from the internationally renowned vineyards of Marlborough to the burgeoning wine scene of Waipara Valley. So uncork your enthusiasm, as we embark on this vinous adventure together. 1. Auckland Casually known as the ‘gateway to New Zealand’, West Auckland is where kiwi wine began! As the largest city in New Zealand, Auckland boasts a vibrant wine region just a stone’s throw away from the bustling CBD. Explore the historic Kumeu wine trail, where winemaking traditions have been passed down through generations, and savour world-class Chardonnay and Pinot Gris. 2. Hawke’s Bay Sitting pretty on the eastern side of the North Island is Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand’s second-largest wine region. Known for its diverse range of wine varietals, this region boasts a Mediterranean climate, which is perfect for ripening red Bordeaux varieties like Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah. It’s also a great place to explore Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and other white wine styles. In addition to the wine, Hawke’s Bay offers a beautiful landscape with stunning vineyard vistas, charming cellar doors, and a thriving food scene. Did you know? Hawke’s Bay was awarded the tile of the 12th Great… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, FOOD & DRINK, TRAVEL

Tags: new zealand, vineyards

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

Why you need to go back to Spice Temple: Crabs!

by James Banham

Posted: 06/11/2023

Spice Temple, the much-loved regional Chinese restaurant in Melbourne and Sydney, is celebrating Mud Crab season in true style, offering a feast featuring Australia’s native crabs – affectionately known as ‘Muddies’. These sumptuous crustaceans are at their seasonal best, boasting luxurious, irresistibly sweet flesh. As a quintessential ingredient in Chinese cooking and a star of the banquet style of dining at Spice Temple, the live Mud Crabs, sourced directly from Queensland, are cooked to order and dressed in delicious authentic sauces. The spice of the season, until Sunday, 31st December, is the $99 price point on all Mud Crab dishes – a value-packed proposition for a flavour-packed dish that promises to be a show-stopper at any group gathering over the summer, holiday and festive celebrations. Under the expert guidance of Spice Temple’s Executive Chef Andy Evans, the Mud Crabs are steamed to perfection to ensure their sweet, delicate flesh remains tender and untainted. Diners can choose from a variety of five traditional sauces to accompany the delectable crab meat. As the Mud Crab season progresses and the summer heat intensifies, Spice Temple’s menu will also feature Blue Swimmer Crabs and Snow Crabs, each adding their own unique flavours to the mix. For Chef Andy, Mud Crabs and live seafood are the epitome of Chinese dining and offer a unique opportunity to present the regional Chinese flavours that Spice Temple is famous for. In his words, “Mud Crabs are often considered a luxury, but the real treat for our guests this season is the limited-time $99… Read More

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

Tags: Best crabs restaurant, Spice Temple

ARTS & CULTURE

Yayoi Kasuma makes more history at NGV Melbourne

22/11/2024

By James Banham

This summer, the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) in Melbourne invites you to lose yourself in the extraordinary universe of Yayoi Kusama.

Why rush to see The Great Mughals at V&A: a celebration of opulence, art and culture

22/11/2024

By James Banham

Today, the Victoria and Albert Museum opens the doors to a landmark exhibition, The Great Mughals: Art, Architecture and Opulence. For the first time in a major show, the monumental artistic achievements of the Mughal Empire’s ‘Golden Age’ (c. 1560–1660) take centre stage, showcasing the splendour, craftsmanship, and cultural exchange that defined one of the world’s greatest empires. The Glory of the Mughals The Mughal dynasty, rooted in Central Asia, was founded in 1526 by Babur, a Timurid prince who carved out an empire stretching from modern-day Afghanistan to the edges of southern India, and from Gujarat to the borders of present-day Bangladesh. At its zenith, the empire was known for its staggering wealth, progressive governance, and artistic innovation. Focused on the reigns of three of the dynasty’s most celebrated emperors—Akbar (r. 1556–1605), Jahangir (r. 1605–1627), and Shah Jahan (r. 1628–1658)—the exhibition illuminates a period when the Mughal court transformed into a cultural powerhouse. These were the rulers who commissioned masterpieces like the Taj Mahal and fostered an artistic legacy that blended Persian, Indian, and European influences. Unveiling the Court’s Creative Mastery At the heart of the exhibition are over 200 objects, breathtaking in both their beauty and their historical value. Visitors can expect to marvel at exquisite paintings, intricately illustrated manuscripts, luxurious textiles, vibrantly hued carpets, and dazzling objects crafted from mother of pearl, jade, rock crystal, and precious metals. Many of these treasures have been hidden from public view for decades, making this a rare opportunity to immerse oneself in the artistry of… Read More

A Golden Adventure awaits at the Australian Museum with new Machu Picchu Exhibition

21/11/2024

By Danielle Kirk

Sydney, prepare yourselves for a cultural gold rush. From November 23, the Australian Museum is rolling out its latest blockbuster, Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru. This dazzling exhibition is your passport to ancient Peru, featuring 134 priceless treasures from the land of the Incas and 14,000 years of history. Think glittering jewels, royal tomb artefacts, and a VR journey to one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It’s more than a history lesson—it’s a time machine with all the bells, whistles, and human sacrifice relics you could dream of. Following the success of the Ramses Exhibition at the Australian Museum (fun fact, it became the highest grossing exhibition in the State’s history, selling over 500,000 tickets!), Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru is created in partnership with Peru’s Museo Larco, Museo de Sito Manuel Chavez Ballon, and Neon Global, taking you on a journey through five ancient Peruvian empires, spanning over 3,000 years of rich history. Parts of the collection have only been shown in four other cities around the world, in fact, some of the artefacts have never left Peru before, and now we’re lucky to set sights on them in Sydney. Expect to see the most opulent Andean gold collection to ever leave Peru, intricate ceremonial masks, and objects that whisper secrets of long-lost rituals. For the tech-savvy explorers, the Machu Picchu and the Spirit of the Condor VR experience will transport you above the clouds for a bird’s-eye tour of the legendary citadel. Guided by the… Read More

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