Category: FOOD & DRINK

There’s a food tour on Chapel Street Melbourne you need to do

Posted: 23/08/2024

Get ready, food enthusiasts, because Chapel Street is about to host an epic dining adventure that promises to redefine the dining scene in Windsor. The upcoming Windsor Fork & Walk event is set to launch on 5 September, offering a unique progressive dinner experience from some of Melbourne’s most beloved restaurants: Mr. Miyagi, Studio Amaro, and Henrietta. In a time when the hospitality industry faces unprecedented challenges, this collaboration between three iconic venues is not only a testament to innovation but also a celebration of community spirit. The Windsor Fork & Walk invites diners to embark on a culinary tour like no other, where they will enjoy two courses and drinks at each restaurant before moving on to the next. The evening culminates in a final venue stop featuring signature dishes, drinks, and a delectable dessert. For $149 per person, participants will savour a global culinary journey condensed into a leisurely stroll along Windsor’s vibrant Chapel Street. The event is set to become Windsor’s hottest ticket, with limited seats available and three groups rotating through the venues simultaneously to ensure an intimate and engaging experience. Mr. Miyagi founder Kristian Klein expressed his excitement, stating, “We’re thrilled to reinvent the classic progressive dinner with a modern twist featuring some of Melbourne’s finest restaurants. Progressive dinners have been a staple for years, but this version means you’ll enjoy some of the best food Melbourne has to offer. Plus, we’ll handle the cocktail making!” Simon Blacher, Creative Director & Founder of Commune Group, emphasised the collaborative spirit of… Read More

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

Tags: Best Melbourne restaurants, chapel street, chapel street melbourne, melbourne food, melbourne restaurants

Melbourne special food event at Sebastian Williamstown

by James Banham

Posted: 23/08/2024

Prepare for an unforgettable culinary experience as two of Melbourne’s finest culinary minds come together for a one-night-only event at Sebastian on Friday, September 6. This exclusive collaboration features Sebastian’s Head Chef Timon Siew and Jake Read from Neptune Food & Wine, promising a seafood extravaganza like no other on Sebastian’s picturesque waterfront terrace. This exceptional evening will showcase the freshest, sustainably caught produce from Red Coral Seafood, ensuring that each dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also respects the environment. The evening kicks off with a stunning display of fruits de mer, setting the stage for a lavish four-course menu of both cured and cooked seafood delicacies. Jake Read brings a wealth of experience to the table, having spent over 15 years in professional kitchens and gaining recognition as a contestant on MasterChef Professionals in 2021. Now the head chef at Neptune, Jake specializes in high-quality produce, crafting dishes that marry modern European techniques with Asian flavor influences. His collaboration with Timon Siew, known for his dedication to quality and sustainability, promises a menu that is both innovative and respectful of its ingredients. The event begins at 6:30 pm at Sebastian, located at 26 Esplanade, Williamstown. Guests can indulge in this seafood feast for $130 per person, with the option to enhance their dining experience by adding matched wines for an additional $60 per person. This collaboration between Sebastian and Neptune is set to be a night filled with exceptional flavors, creativity, and a commitment to high-quality, sustainable dining. With limited tickets… Read More

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

Tags: melbourne food, melbourne restaurants, Sebastian Williamstown

Where to get Roman style pizza in Sydney

by James Banham

Posted: 23/08/2024

Get ready, Sydney, because SLICE is about to revolutionise your lunch break with a modern, vibrant twist on a beloved classic. Opening its doors on August 27, 2024, in the bustling heart of the city, SLICE is set to offer a fresh and convenient dining experience that caters to both busy professionals and food enthusiasts. Nestled on the 5th floor of Westfield Sydney on Pitt Street, SLICE specializes in Roman-style pizza by the slice. This new hotspot promises to deliver a unique blend of traditional Italian flavors with a modern twist, ensuring every visit is a delightful culinary adventure. From classic confit potato and rosemary to the innovative provolone and mortadella, each slice is crafted fresh daily, making it a must-try for pizza lovers. But SLICE isn’t just about pizza. The menu extends to freshly baked focaccia sandwiches, crisp salads, and the decadent pistachio tiramisu, all at an attractive price point. With slices and focaccia sandwiches priced at $12, bites and tiramisu at $7, and combo deals ranging from $16 to $25, SLICE offers high-quality, efficient, and freshly made meals that won’t break the bank. Adding an element of surprise, SLICE will unveil a new slice flavor daily, inspired by the freshest produce and ingredients available each morning. This rotating menu ensures there’s always something new to try, making each visit exciting and full of surprises. Designed with convenience in mind, SLICE invites patrons from 11 am to 4 pm, or until sold out, to enjoy its offerings through a streamlined, grab-and-go setup. Its open… Read More

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

Tags: Roman pizza, sydney pizza

Starward whisky wins an award in Australia

by James Banham

Posted: 23/08/2024

In a remarkable feat, Starward has clinched the title of ‘Most Awarded International Distillery’ at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC), marking a historic moment as the only Australian distillery ever to receive this honour twice. Celebrated as the ‘Olympics’ of the spirits world, the SFWSC is a prestigious event that draws over 5,500 entries from renowned brands across whisky, gin, tequila, and more, each evaluated by a discerning panel of expert judges through blind tastings. Emerging victorious against such formidable competition underscores the exceptional quality and global appeal of Starward’s offerings. “It’s absolutely surreal… There’s no other way to say it,” shares Dave Vitale, Starward’s founder. “Sixteen years ago, I set out to craft a whisky that reflected Melbourne in every sip, and now it’s Melbourne that has allowed our whisky to shine bright on the global stage. We have an abundance of Australian red wine barrels on our doorstep, unpredictable weather (which is maturation’s best friend), and some of the purest water in the world; all the makings for award-winning whisky. For this, I’m so grateful and this is our tribute to the city that is reflected in every drop of Starward.” Starward’s triumph is solidified by an impressive haul of accolades: 8 platinum medals, 13 double gold medals, and 13 gold medals awarded in May 2024. These honors testify to the distillery’s mastery in creating Melbourne-made whiskies that captivate connoisseurs worldwide. Chief Executive Officer Simon Marton echoed this sentiment, noting, “To be recognized as the world’s best not once, but… Read More

Category: FOOD & DRINK

Tags: Starward, starward whisky

UGO Burrata Bar x Lasagna Lab kicks off in Melbourne

by James Banham

Posted: 23/08/2024

This August, Melbourne foodies are in for a treat as UGO Burrata Bar teams up with Lasagna Lab to present a mouthwatering limited edition dish: the Braised Lamb Lasagna + Burrata. Available exclusively at the South Melbourne Market store for just one weekend—Saturday 31st August and Sunday 1st September—this culinary creation promises to be a winter comfort delight. UGO Burrata Bar, known for their creamy, indulgent burrata, found the perfect partner in Lasagna Lab, famous for reinventing Italian classics with innovative twists. Their latest collaboration showcases a lasagna like no other. Picture this: a sumptuous braised lamb ragout, harmoniously paired with confit leek, black olives, and a sprinkle of lemon and rosemary crumbs, all crowned with UGO’s signature oozing burrata. At just $20, it’s a steal for a dish that delivers such a symphony of flavors. Dario Di Clerico, co-owner and chef at UGO Burrata Bar, couldn’t be more thrilled. “It’s no secret that one of my favorite dishes is lasagna, and I love what the guys are doing at Lasagna Lab. This delicious braised lamb lasagna is perfectly complemented by our creamy UGO burrata,” he shared, highlighting the dish’s potential to redefine lasagna for Melburnians. Equally enthusiastic is the team behind Lasagna Lab. Co-owner Alessio Davidde, alongside co-owner and chef Mattia Aloisio, expressed their excitement: “We are beyond excited to join forces with UGO Burrata Bar. We strongly believe that collaborations are the future and combining both our works of art into one limited edition dish will bring the South Melbourne Market the comfort… Read More

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

Tags: Burrata Melbourne, Ugo burrata bar, Ugo Melbourne

What’s on at Barangaroo Sydney this September

by James Banham

Updated: 23/08/2024

Running from the 1st to the 30th, this vibrant stretch will host a series of collaborative events, performances, and retailer activations, all orbiting around the concept of ritual. So, if you’re looking to paint the town—and your palate—pink, you’re in for a treat.

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

Tags: barangaroo, sydney, Sydney September, What's on Barangaroo, what's on sydney

Australia’s got a new wine: In The Middle

by James Banham

Posted: 23/08/2024

As Aussies continue their quest for a healthier lifestyle, one thing’s clear: we’re keen on enjoying life’s pleasures without the nagging guilt trip. And let’s be honest, who said you can’t have your cake—or wine—and eat it too? Fourth Wave Wine is here to save the day with their latest offering, ‘In The Middle’, a wine range that’s all about balance. It’s like Goldilocks’ perfect porridge—just right. For those of us who want to enjoy a cheeky glass or two without the heavy-headed aftermath, ‘In The Middle’ serves up a delightful selection of mid-strength wines. With offerings like a lively Pinot Noir, a bright Rosé, a dry Chardonnay, a fresh-as-a-daisy Pinot Grigio, and a zesty Prosecco, this range promises all the flavour with half the fuss. With alcohol content hovering between 6-7%, you can savor every sip without the next-day regret. Australia’s love affair with lighter options is no secret, particularly among millennials who are leading the charge in reducing alcohol intake. In fact, the low-alcohol wine market is bubbling over and is expected to grow annually by 12% till 2027. Clearly, the trend is catching on faster than a beachside BBQ. Indeya Passfield, Fourth Wave Wine’s Marketing Manager, couldn’t agree more: “The mid-strength wine category is going from strength to strength, and In The Middle allows consumers to enjoy a wine at lunch or other occasions with confidence in a lighter choice.” By embracing innovative winemaking techniques, the team at In The Middle ensures that each varietal retains its regional characteristics. Think of it… Read More

Category: FOOD & DRINK, AUSTRALIAN FOOD

Tags: australian wine, In the middle

What’s on at The Espy Melbourne

by James Banham

Updated: 16/08/2024

Looking for a reason to spice up your social calendar? The Espy has rolled out a lineup of events and specials that are sure to make your heart race and your taste buds tingle. Whether you’re hunting for romance or just a cracking good meal, here’s what you can’t miss at The Espy this season. 1. Love On the Esplanade: Speed Dating at Louey’s Tired of swiping left and right? Put away the dating apps and head over to Louey’s for a real-life chance at love. Every Tuesday in September, from 7pm to 9pm, dive into the whirlwind world of speed dating with a drink in hand and a smile on your face. For just $35 per person (or $30 if you bring a wingman or two), you’ll get a drink on arrival and another at the end, perfect for toasting newfound connections. Who knew love could be this fun? 2. Mya Tiger’s Express Lunch Lunchtime just got a whole lot tastier at Mya Tiger. Available Tuesday to Friday from 12pm to 3pm, this express lunch is your ticket to a quick and delicious escape from the daily grind. Start with the irresistible Szechuan Prawn Crackers and Duck Spring Rolls before choosing from a mouth-watering selection of mains like Crispy Pork Chop with Curry Sauce or Honey Soy Crispy Fish. All this for $35 per person, with the option to add a cheeky glass of wine or beer for just $10 more. 3. Weekend Yum Cha Weekends are for indulgence, and what better way to… Read More

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

Tags: espy, Espy Melbourne, Speed dating Melbourne

Aria Sydney celebrates a huge milestone

by James Banham

Updated: 16/08/2024

Sydney’s culinary crown jewel, Aria Sydney, is rolling out the red carpet to mark a monumental milestone—25 years of wowing diners with exquisite dishes and unforgettable dining experiences. This September, the renowned restaurant is pulling out all the stops to celebrate a quarter-century of fine dining, collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to quality and innovation. Aria has been more than just a restaurant; it’s been a vital piece of Sydney’s cultural and culinary fabric. As Matt Moran, the maestro behind this incredible journey, puts it, “A restaurant is nothing without its people.” And indeed, it’s the people—guests, staff, and suppliers—who have filled Aria’s space with joy and passion, making it a staple for special celebrations. In true Aria fashion, the celebrations are as grand as they are delicious. Curated by Matt Moran and executive chef Thomas Gorringe, the exclusive 25th birthday tasting menu is a delicious walk down memory lane. Priced at $290 per person, this seven-course extravaganza features modern interpretations of Aria’s most beloved dishes. Expect to feast on delights such as yellowfin tuna with daikon, bergamot, and dashi—a nod to the iconic 2010 earl grey salmon. There’s also scallops with Moran Family Farm guanciale, apple, and elderflower, a tribute to the pork belly that graced the menu from 1999 to 2016. And let’s not forget the chocolate delice with sherry and hazelnut, a dessert that once challenged the Masterchef pressure kitchen. Enhancing this culinary journey is Aria’s expertly curated wine pairings, along with a lineup of new cocktails that promise to tickle your… Read More

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

Tags: Aria, aria sydney, sydney

Yum Cha deals in Hampton and Mordialloc in Melbourne

by James Banham

Posted: 16/08/2024

If you’re in the mood for Asian, Bang Bang is where you need to go.

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

Tags: bang bang, Hampton Asian

ARTS & CULTURE

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

22/11/2024

By James Banham

The Victoria and Albert (V&A) Museum has oepned 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… 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

Labyrinth in Concert comes to London’s Royal Festival Hall

12/11/2024

By James Banham

Prepare to be whisked away to the mystical realm of Goblin City with a legendary twist, as “Jim Henson’s Labyrinth: In Concert” makes its grand debut at London’s Royal Festival Hall. On Friday, 28th November 2025, fans of this beloved musical fantasy film will experience a spectacular fusion of cinema and live music that promises to be nothing short of magical. For the first time ever, Jim Henson’s original masterpiece, starring the one and only David Bowie, will come alive on stage with a captivating live band performance. Audiences will be treated to the enchanting melodies of Bowie’s original vocals, accompanied by the band in perfect harmony, all set against the backdrop of the movie projected on a large HD cinema screen. It’s a chance to relive the unforgettable music and adventure that has captured hearts for nearly 40 years since the film’s release in 1986. Produced by Black Ink Presents, a division of Sony Music Entertainment, this unique concert experience is set to enthral long-time fans and newcomers alike. Known for breathing new life into iconic films with live orchestras and bands, Black Ink Presents has previously dazzled audiences with events like Batman, Ghostbusters, and The Nightmare Before Christmas. CEO John Kinsner shares his excitement, stating, “I have always been a huge fan of the groundbreaking collaboration of Jim Henson, George Lucas, David Bowie, and Trevor Jones on this film, and bringing it to fans in a live concert screening experience is a dream come true. Getting to hear Bowie’s vocals with a live… Read More