Category: FOOD & DRINK

Doing dry July? Here’s what you need in your toolbox

Alcohol free wine picnic grass

As we enter the month of July, many people around the world are taking part in Dry July – a challenge that encourages individuals to give up alcohol for the entire month. This is a great opportunity to reassess your relationship with alcohol and explore some of the many alcohol-free alternatives that are now available. The no and low alcohol categories have seen significant growth in recent years, with consumption predicted to increase by a third by 2026. This can be attributed to the growing ‘sober curious’ movement, as well as a desire for moderation and balance in lifestyle. Fourth Wave Wine is one such brand that offers high-quality alcohol-free alternatives that cater to diverse lifestyles and tastes. Their range includes Tread Softly Everything Except Rosé, Plus & Minus Prosecco Cans, and Plus & Minus Shiraz. Tread Softly Everything Except Rosé is a refreshing blend of fruit flavors and cleansing acidity, perfect for Dry July. It is an excellent alternative to traditional rosé wine and provides a lighter, more refreshing option that still feels indulgent. Plus & Minus Prosecco Cans are another convenient and stylish alternative for social gatherings. These cans deliver all the bubbles and flavor of traditional prosecco without the alcohol content, making it a great option for those who want to maintain their sobriety while still enjoying social events. Plus & Minus Shiraz is a non-alcoholic option for those seeking a warm and indulgent drink during Dry July. This wine features aromas of dark cherry, blackberry, and a hint of vanilla and… Read More

Dickies does Jameson in new collab

Dickies models

Jameson Irish Whiskey and iconic workwear brand Dickies have joined forces to create an exclusive collection that celebrates their shared values of craftsmanship and community. The partnership, titled “Crafted Together,” pays tribute to the fashion and ethos of workwear, as well as the dedication to craft and passion for evolution among creators and makers. The collection features signature pieces such as the Dickies Eisenhower Jacket, overalls, beanies, caps, and more. Some apparel will even feature a bespoke graphic inspired by the original Jameson ‘Barrelman’ icon. The pieces were shot in Jameson’s historic Midleton Distillery in Cork, adding to the authenticity and heritage of the collaboration. Both brands share a rich history of craftsmanship and community. Jameson has been distilling their renowned Irish whiskey since 1780, and has a deep respect for the craft and tradition of whiskey-making. Dickies, on the other hand, has been producing high-quality workwear for over a century, with a focus on durability and functionality. The two brands coming together to create this collection feels like a natural partnership. Crafted Together aims to connect kindred spirits and appreciate the craft shared by both brands and modern craftspeople. The limited-edition collection will be available online in Australia and New Zealand. Fans of Jameson and Dickies won’t want to miss the chance to get their hands on these unique workwear pieces. This collaboration is not just about fashion, but also about celebrating the hardworking people who inspire both brands. It’s a tribute to those who take pride in their craft and value the importance… Read More

Bintang Bro brings authentic Indonesian flavours to the streets of Sydney

bintang bro sydney

Located in the Darling Square food court is some of the best Indonesian on offer in Sydney. Bintang Bro is a hidden gem offering authentic tastes straight from the streets of Indonesia to our stomachs. At Bintang Bro you can find lunchtime favourites like burgers, onion rings and wraps, but all with an Indonesian twist. We recommend diving fully in though and getting the more traditional menu items, like the BBQ skewers, prepared grill shack style, and the Indonesian flame grilled chicken that comes with tasty sides like spiced tempeh and tofu. One stand out that you can find on many of the dishes is the house made sambal. When preparing the chilli, spice, herb and aromatic mix, the staff wear gloves and goggles, because this is not for the feint of heart… or should we say tongues. Delicious spiciness underpins many of their dishes (definitely try the spicy smashed chicken, Ayem Geprek!), but fear not, everything comes in an original non-spicy version too! This spot has something for everyone and every tastebud, and if you’re not drinking, try some Indonesian beverages like iced Jasmine tea, but if you are drinking, let’s just say a cold beer from Batch Brewing which is conveniently located right next door to Bintang Bro in Darling Square goes down perfectly.

World Chocolate Day: what to know

Kristen Tibballs choclolate

World Chocolate Day is here on Friday 7 July, and it’s time to indulge in some mouth-watering chocolate treats. Whether it’s a creamy chocolate mousse, a rich chocolate cake or a classic chocolate brownie, there’s something for everyone on this sweet occasion. We had the pleasure of speaking with world-renowned pastry chef Kirsten Tibballs for a fun Q&A session about all things chocolate. Here’s what she had to say: Tell us something about chocolate that we might not know “Chocolate is responsible for one of time’s greatest savers – microwaves. A scientist working in WWII noticed a correlation between his melting chocolate bar and a magnetron. He put the two together and a microwave was born!” What’s your go-to dessert when invited to a dinner party & why? “If I am bringing dessert for a dinner party, I always go for a chocolate option, which is continually well received. A yummy chocolate and Chantilly cream trifle or a decadent chocolate tart served with a dollop of cream is usually a crowd pleaser!” Favourite savoury dish to cook: “I love making gnocchi, and when my son was younger we’d spend a whole afternoon together doing this. My favourite is sage and Parmesan gnocchi with asparagus, garlic and chilli butter, broad beans, zucchini and Buffalo mozzarella.” The tool of the trade you couldn’t live without and why: “I have a set of global knives that were given to me in Germany when I won a gold medal at the Pastry Olympics. They have the Olympic logo on… Read More

Not drinking anymore? Here’s some low alco wine news

People awards

The Mid-Low-No Alcohol Wine Awards (MLNA) hosted by Wine Pilot, have announced their 2023 winners across the mid-low-no alcohol categories. This event was held at The Winery, Sydney, and saw over 140 submissions from winemakers across the award’s three categories including zero alcohol, low alcohol, and mid-alcohol. The MLNA awards consist of a two-part judging process. The first part is a formal wine judging which features a panel of highly credentialed judges, including winemaking consultant and MLNA 2023 Chairman Mike DeGaris, Shanteh Wale from the Halliday Wine Companion Tasting Team, Matt Dunne former leading sommelier and Group Wine Ambassador from Joval Wine Group, Owner of One Penny Restaurant and Co-Creator at Lyre’s Spirit Co. David Murphy, and Wine Pilot Founder and Publisher Angus Hughson. The second element of the judging process saw the addition of a ‘consumer choice’ event, with invited guests and noise makers in the industry casting their vote on their favorite of the top three wines from each category. This year’s awards show saw a significant increase in submissions, reflecting the growing demand for mid-low-no alcohol wines both locally and internationally. Trophies were awarded to the best wines in each category, alongside Wine of Show trophies from both the formal judging and the new ‘consumer choice’ event. Winning trophies in several categories was Tread Softly, a brand of Fourth Wave Wine. The Overall Judges’ Wine of Show was awarded to Not Guilty Rosé NV from Australian Vintage Limited, while the Overall Consumer Choice Wine of Show was awarded to Tread Softly Rosé… Read More

Unleash your palate: a unique culinary journey at Maha East

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Get ready for a gastronomic spectacle that will ignite your senses this 4th of July! Welcome to Maha East, where the extraordinary culinary prowess of renowned chef Shane Delia meets the innovative winemaking craft of Eddie Chami from Mersel Wines. This promises to be an evening of indulgence, leaving you with an unforgettable dining experience. As the sun sets and the lights dim, the magic unfolds. Chef Shane Delia, known for his inventive and delectable dishes, is curating a three-course tasting menu that showcases some of Maha East’s most popular creations. Each dish is a journey through the rich tapestry of flavour profiles that have made Maha East a culinary hotspot. But what’s a remarkable meal without the perfect wine? Enter Eddie Chami, the passionate Lebanese winemaker who has been redefining the wine industry with his unique creations. Eddie’s Mersel Wines are crafted from indigenous Lebanese grape varieties, using organic farming methods and natural production techniques. His innovative portfolio includes Piquette, PetNat, and skin-contact wines – all beautifully fermented, unfiltered, and unfined, with minimal or no sulfites. Every course on the menu is thoughtfully paired with a selection from Mersel Wines. These pairings are meticulously curated to enhance the flavours of each dish, creating an immersive dining experience that goes beyond the plate and the glass. For $140pp, immerse yourself in this tantalizing fusion of food and wine, starting at 7:00 pm. Spaces are limited, so secure your spot now for this exceptional evening of culinary delight. And the experience doesn’t end with the meal…. Read More

Love truffles? Here’s where to get them in Sydney

truffles

Truffle lovers in Sydney have reason to rejoice with the start of the much-awaited truffle season. The city has no dearth of options when it comes to indulging in the earthy and aromatic delicacy. Here are some top spots to get your truffle fix: Darling Square IIKO Mazesoba is one of the most renowned culinary destinations in Sydney, known for its brothless ramen and black truffle menu. Their limited-time menu features unparalleled flavours of black truffle sourced exclusively from Truffle Hill in Western Australia. The menu includes customer favourites like Black Chicken Karaage and new dishes such as Brie Cheese Tempura served with Truffle honey. WingBoy offers Truffalo Wings and a Truffalo Burger. The wings are doused in truffle-infused buffalo sauce and topped with shaved black truffles, while the burger features truffle-infused buffalo tenders, slaw, ranch, shallots, and a milk bun. Spago serves up delectable truffle-infused dishes like Spaghetti cacio e pepe with exotic mushrooms and fresh truffle, Criss Cut Potato Chips with crispy bacon, melted cheese, truffle oil, and fresh truffle, and Homemade classic Tiramisu with fresh truffle. Ume Burger also boasts of luxury upgrades to its burgers and sides with Truffle Mayo, a crispy Kakaige Truffle Burger and Ume Hot Chips dipped in Truffle Mayo. The Streets of Barangaroo IIKO Mazesoba is a common name here too, offering the same black truffle menu as it does in Darling Square. Cirrus brings back its annual dinner series complemented by David Coomer’s rare black winter truffles, sourced from the fertile land nestled between the mighty… Read More

Padre coffee moves into Sydney

Padre Paddington Launch Imagery Social Export 115

Get ready, Sydney coffee lovers! Padre Coffee has officially opened its first-ever store in your city, and it’s like nothing you’ve ever seen before. Located in Paddington’s Five Ways, this multi-purpose coffee concept store is not only an espresso bar, but also a retail section selling Padre Coffee’s signature blends and home-brewing equipment, and a dedicated coffee training and education space. And to celebrate the launch of this amazing spot, Padre Coffee has created a limited-release, single origin Colombian coffee with cherry, strawberry, raspberry, and rose flavours that will blow your mind – it’s like sipping a cherry cola! But hurry, because this exclusive coffee is only available for a limited time while supplies last. This marks Padre Coffee’s first foray into the Sydney coffee market, and after growing a cult-like following in Melbourne and Noosa, they’re ready to share their passion for specialty coffee with all of you. The Paddington store has created jobs for nearly a dozen professional baristas from across the city, who are excited to pour you the perfect cup of coffee. And if that’s not enough, the store will also offer educational and interactive events for coffee enthusiasts and casual sippers alike in the coming months. So head on over to 241A-241B Glenmore Road, Paddington and experience the magic of Padre Coffee for yourself. With pastries and fresh bread supplied by Staple Bread & Necessities (Wednesday to Saturday), Cut Lunch Deli’s mouth-watering cookies, and famous Portuguese tarts from Clovelly’s Tuga Pastries, there’s no better place to start your day than… Read More

New wine bar Melbourne: By The Glass in Armadale

By The GLass bar wine bar

Wine lovers, rejoice! There’s a new wine bar in town that’s sure to become your new go-to destination for a night out. Introducing By The Glass, located in Armadale, this venue is bringing quintessential European concepts to Australia with its cosy yet adventurous atmosphere. Upon entering By The Glass, you’ll be greeted by an expansive selection of wines from around the world, available by the bottle or by the glass. From Australian Chenin Blanc to Argentinian Malbec, there’s something to suit every palate. The wine list is curated with a whole menu refresh every six weeks, ensuring that there’s always something new and exciting to try. The sixty-eight-seater wine bar is divided into several intimate spaces, each with its unique atmosphere, depending on the occasion. From the dark and moody indoor dining area to the hypnotic ambience of the street front dining section, By The Glass offers a variety of seating options. Plus, their secluded thirty-eight-seat arcade area is perfect for those looking for a more private dining experience. But it’s not just the wine that’s impressive at By The Glass – the food menu is equally enticing. Venue Manager and Head Chef Myles Davis-Schiele has created a menu bursting with flavour, featuring dishes like Burnt Butter Brioche topped with mackerel, Duck & Lamb Pate, and Oysters with preserved lemon oil & bloody shiraz gin caviar. Plus, the Marinated Beef Heart served with chimichurri, Burnt Butter Cauliflower, and Lamb Carpaccio are favourites gracing the menu. By The Glass owners, Ron Dhali and Gareth Yan, are… Read More

Australia’s best bartender has been named

Man bartender bar

Australia is well-known for its thriving food and beverage scene, and the world-class bartending competition did not disappoint. The competition brought together five talented bartenders from across the country who battled through three rounds of cocktail challenges, each one more difficult than the last. Eduardo Conde, with his exceptional skills and innovative approach to cocktail-making, emerged as the clear winner of the competition. The cocktail challenges presented by the competition were diverse, with each bartender having to put their own twist on classic cocktails while incorporating various spirits, including Johnnie Walker Blue Label, tequila Don Julio 1942, and Bundaberg Small Batch Rum. Conde’s winning cocktails included a twist on an Old Fashioned and a twist on a Paloma, showcasing his incredible creativity and expertise. Conde’s win was a testament to Australia’s vibrant and innovative bartending scene. The competition showcased how Australian bartenders are leading the way in sustainable practices, using local and seasonal ingredients while incorporating traditional and contemporary techniques that result in unique and delicious cocktails. Conde’s next challenge will be taking part in the Diageo World Class Global Finals in Sao Paolo, Brazil, where he will represent Australia against more than 50 other global finalists. He will have the opportunity to showcase his skills and compete for the title of World Class Global Bartender of the Year. In conclusion, Eduardo Conde’s win was a remarkable achievement that highlighted the exceptional talent of Australian bartenders. The competition also revealed how the industry is evolving, leading the way in sustainability, creativity, and innovation. We wish… Read More