Category: FOOD & DRINK

Experience plant-based Peruvian at Calle Rey

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Updated: 07/06/2023

Whether you’re vegan full time, or just looking to mix it up and eat a bit less meat, everyone should be heading straight to Calle Rey in Newton for divine plant-based food (seriously, check out their Instagram). The menu is a real fusion, think mainly Peruvian, elements of Mexican and wait for it, Japanese! We visited recently and are here to share the menu highlights! First of all, Calle Rey also houses the Diablo Pisco Bar, which is open late Fridays and Saturdays, however that means there is always pisco available behind the bar! If you’ve never tried a Pisco Sour, this is the place to get one. Not only are they expertly made, but there’s a tasting paddle which means you can try a few flavours! You may be wondering how a pisco sour is made with no egg whites, well that’s the bartenders secret but we have a sneaky suspicion that the plant based foamer is aqua faba. Not a pisco fan? There’s also a margarita tasting paddle *wink wink* We tried plenty on the menu thanks to the set tasting menus. There are two to choose from, a classic one, or a Japanese one. We opted for the classic as we’re big fans of Mexican cuisine and wanted to see how Peruvian came to life. We weren’t disappointed! The jackfruit ‘chicken’ nachos were HUGE and then we still had charred corn, two tacos (you got to choose the flavours too, don’t miss the eggplant!) and the real stand out: the buffalo cauliflower…. Read More

Category: FOOD & DRINK, MEXICAN FOOD

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Tread Softly: The eco-conscious gin and vodka brand that’s winning awards

Pink gin

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Updated: 05/06/2023

Fourth Wave Wine’s eco-conscious brand, Tread Softly, has been making waves in the spirits industry with its award-winning gin and vodka. Tread Softly recently received recognition at the London Spirits Competition 2023, International Wine and Spirits Challenge 2023 (IWSC), and Dan Murphy’s Decoded Spirit Awards 2023. The brand’s Tread Softly Dry Gin and Tread Softly Pink Gin were both awarded gold medals at the London Spirits Competition, with scores of 92 and 90 points, respectively. Tread Softly Native Botanical Vodka and Tread Softly Native Botanical Pink Vodka received silver medals at the same event. Furthermore, Tread Softly Native Botanical Pink Vodka was awarded a silver medal at the IWSC, with an impressive score of 94 points. At the Dan Murphy’s Decoded Spirit Awards 2023, Tread Softly Dry Gin won the Best Value Pick Award in the Gin – Australian category among 450 entries. The award-winning Dry Gin features native citrus and floral jasmine notes, creating a bold flavor profile that has captivated gin enthusiasts. Nicholas Crampton, Director of Fourth Wave Wine, expressed his delight at Tread Softly’s recent awards, stating that they reflect the company’s commitment to crafting high-quality spirits and providing unparalleled quality to customers. Tread Softly is also known for its eco-friendliness, planting an Australian native tree for every six bottles sold. In 2021, the brand received its dedicated planting site, the Tread Softly Forest, in the Yarra Yarra biodiversity corridor. To date, it has planted over one million native trees and is still growing. Tread Softly Botanical Pink Vodka, Dry Gin, Pink… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, FOOD & DRINK

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End of an era: Cuckoo Callay on Crown Street Sydney closes

Candy Mountain Cuckoo Callay

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Updated: 26/05/2023

ESCA Group is bidding farewell to Cuckoo Callay after six years of unforgettable memories. This eclectic venue will be closing its doors on 11 June, making room for an exciting new venture. But before they say their final goodbyes, Cuckoo Callay is bringing back their all-time favourite dishes for a limited time. The iconic Return of the MacDaddy, a combination of bacon, mac and cheese all stuffed into a flaky croissant, is making a comeback along with the mouth-watering Lemon and White Chocolate Hotcakes. For those feeling a little savoury about their departure, the Lamb Rendang Roti Tacos are also returning. Co-Founder of ESCA Group, Ibrahim Moubadder says, “It’s bittersweet to bid farewell to Cuckoo Callay. The venue wriggled its way onto Crown Street and brought locals a quirky combo of delicious food and great memories. However, we do believe it’s time to embark on a new adventure that pushes the boundaries and challenges the ordinary.” Dine with Cuckoo Callay before they close and fill out a ‘goodbye postcard’ to thank staff members for the memories. Filling out one of these cards will give patrons a chance to win 1 in 5 exclusive double dinner experiences to be the first to experience the newest venue at the soft opening. But don’t worry, ESCA’s newest Japanese Izakaya-style restaurant, It?, will be opening later this year in place of Cuckoo Callay. So mark your calendars and don’t miss your last chance to try their quirky creations before they close their doors forever on 11 June.

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

We’ve found the perfect venue for your next team lunch

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Posted: 24/05/2023

Anyone who has had to organise a team lunch for your coworkers knows it can be a minefield. You need to cater for all dietaries, but also be delicious. It can’t cost over $300 a head, but it also can’t cost $10 a head. It needs to be close to the office, but it can’t be so far away that it takes up important meeting times. Oh, and it also can’t be too slow, otherwise your manager will start giving you the side eye as they check their watch. So what’s the solution? We found it in Turkish restaurant Maydanoz. Ticking all the boxes above, Maydonoz is centrally located in the heart of Sydney CBD. The venue is intimate, but large enough for groups. Plus, it’s Turkish food, so automatically delicious and able to be catered for any, if not all, dietary needs. Maydanoz’s menu that features extensive vegetarian and meat-based options, including hero dishes like the lentil kofte, su borek with feta, beetroot falafel with spinach pita, tahini, and pickled mint, ox tongue kebab with muhammara and turnip and Tilba haloumi with thyme honey and sesame. To sweeten the deal on this group lunch, Maydanoz is open Monday – Friday for lunch from 12pm, and they just launched a new express lunch offer for $49pp, including a glass of wine. Check out the delicious menu here.

Category: FOOD & DRINK

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Celebrate World Gin Day the right way, with a Gin Masterclass

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Updated: 26/05/2023

Can you even call yourself a gin lover if you don’t celebrate World Gin Day?! It’s June 10 for those of you unaware of the event of the season. As gin popularity has skyrocketed over the past few years, there’s no better time to reacquaint yourself, or discover what’s new in gin land. So for World Gin Day, we say try a Gin Masterclass with gin connoisseurs, Young Henrys. The Young Henrys ‘Meet The Maker’ Gin Masterclass is taking place on Saturday June 10, World Gin Day, at their home in Newtown. The class and tasting sessions on the day will be led by Head Distiller Carla Daunton and YH Gin Wizard Hamish Mackenzie. That’s right, you get the two legends who know their way around a gin bottle. The ‘Meet the Maker’ sessions will host an immersive experience for all gin lovers and aficionados, taking punters through the Young Henrys distillery, hidden amongst the beer tanks, to learn how their award-winning gin range is created. Join them at Young Henrys Brewery and Distillery and discover some tantalising drops like the Young Henrys x ST ALi. Gin or Young Henrys’ award-winning Noble Cut Australian Gin. There’s a whole new world for your tastebuds to unlock. Tickets won’t last long and are only $60. Oh, and did we mention tickets also include a free bottle of gin?! You do the math. Grab your tickets here.

Category: FOOD & DRINK

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See the best of Europe in Lonely Planet’s Gourmet Trails book

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Posted: 20/05/2023

The new book from Lonely Planet Food, titled “Gourmet Trails.” This book offers a fresh perspective on the traditional cuisines of Europe, including local specialities and creative modern-day chef creations. With 40 foodie trails to choose from, travellers can indulge in both indulgent and affordable itineraries that cater to their unique tastes. Lonely Planet’s team of writers has curated an exquisite showcase of Europe’s epicurean countries, tailoring itineraries that celebrate vibrant local produce and the creative minds that deliver these culinary delights. Whether you’re foraging in the woods, trialling a country cooking class, tasting pungent cheeses, quaffing local wines, discovering local tavernas, tasting wild food, or bartering at a local market, this guide celebrates the best of Europe on a platter. The book covers popular and lesser-known food and wine stops throughout Europe, providing readers with the best places to stay, cool restaurants and bars, where to eat, what to do along the way, and local culture, including festivals and celebrations. Each trail features 6-8 must eat and drink stops, suiting a shorter getaway or jaunt of two to three days. Itineraries include a route map, photography, and planning information such as how to get there, where to stay, what to do, and the best time to visit. There’s also the chance to experience celebrated producers, sample local specialties, and learn about the history of regional dishes. Some of the highlights of this book include Alsace’s Route des Vins, an introduction to the Corsican pantry, delving into Danish pastry in Copenhagen, tasting the seasons in… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, BOOKS, FOOD & DRINK

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Wines for winter: what’s your type?

Rose wine

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Posted: 20/05/2023

Winter is upon us in Australia, and what better way to warm up than with a glass of delicious wine? If you’re looking for the perfect wine to enjoy during the colder months, there are a few options that truly stand out. First up, red wine. During winter, it’s time to put away the light and fruity whites and embrace the full-bodied flavors of red wine. One great option is Shiraz, which is rich and spicy, with notes of dark fruit, pepper, and chocolate. The Barossa Valley region produces some of the best Shiraz in Australia, and it’s a great choice if you’re looking for a wine that pairs well with hearty winter meals like stews and roasts. Another great option is Cabernet Sauvignon, which is often described as the “king of red wines.” It’s full-bodied and complex, with flavors of blackcurrant, tobacco, and vanilla. This wine pairs perfectly with rich and savory dishes like beef or lamb, making it a great choice for winter dining. If you prefer a lighter red wine, Pinot Noir is another great option. It’s a delicate and elegant wine, with flavors of cherry, raspberry, and spice. This wine is a great match for winter dishes like mushroom risotto or roast chicken. Moving on to white wine, Chardonnay is a classic choice for winter. It’s a full-bodied wine with flavors of apple, pear, and vanilla, and it pairs well with creamy dishes like pasta carbonara or chicken pot pie. Look for Chardonnays from the Margaret River or Yarra Valley regions… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, FEATURES, FOOD & DRINK

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Eco-friendly wines are here to stay: here’s why

Wine hand Vinomofo

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Posted: 19/05/2023

Are you a wine lover who’s also environmentally conscious? If so, you’ll be happy to know that eco-friendly wines are becoming increasingly popular. These wines are made using sustainable and organic farming methods that minimise the use of harmful chemicals and reduce carbon footprints. Eco-friendly wine production starts in the vineyard, where farmers use natural pest control methods such as crop rotation, cover crops, and composting. This approach ensures that the soil remains healthy, and the vines are protected without the use of pesticides or herbicides. In addition to protecting the environment, this method of farming also produces healthier grapes that result in better tasting wines. Organic wines are also made without artificial preservatives such as sulphur dioxide. Instead, vintners use natural processes to ensure that the wine is stable and can age properly. This means that organic wines are often fresher and have a cleaner taste than non-organic wines. Another option for eco-conscious wine lovers is biodynamic wine. Biodynamic farming takes organic farming a step further by incorporating spiritual and mystical practices into the production process. Biodynamic farmers use an astrological calendar to determine when to plant, prune, and harvest their grapes. They also use natural preparations such as manure, compost, and herbal teas to promote soil health and vine growth. If you’re looking for eco-friendly wine options, look for labels that are certified organic, biodynamic, or sustainable. These certifications ensure that the wine has been produced using environmentally friendly methods that meet specific standards. Some notable certifications include Demeter, USDA Organic, and Certified… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, FEATURES, FOOD & DRINK

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Man Shake – your key to a healthier you

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Posted: 19/05/2023

The Man Shake Australia is changing the way busy men approach weight loss. Founded by NRL champ Adam MacDougall, this convenient and healthy meal shake has helped over half a million Aussie men achieve their weight loss goals. The Man Shake is packed with nutrition, including protein, fibre and 25 different vitamins and minerals. It can be used to replace one or two meals a day, making it an ideal option for busy blokes who want to shed a few pounds without sacrificing their favourite foods or drinks. What sets The Man Shake apart from other weight loss supplements is its focus on sustainable weight loss. Unlike crash diets that leave you feeling deprived and hungry, The Man Shake provides a satisfying and nutritious meal that helps you stay fuller for longer. This makes it easier to stick to your weight loss plan and avoid unhealthy snacking throughout the day. The Man Shake also offers a range of flavours to suit different tastes, including chocolate, vanilla, and coffee. Its versatility means that you can enjoy it as a shake on its own or get creative by adding fruits, nuts, or even oats for a more filling meal replacement. Another great aspect of The Man Shake is its community support. The program includes access to a private Facebook group where members can share their progress and tips for staying on track. This sense of community is incredibly motivating and provides a supportive environment for men who may feel isolated in their weight loss journey. Overall, The… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, FOOD & DRINK

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Another new gin: Brogan’s Way does a new strawberry and cream gin

Pink gin

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Updated: 20/05/2023

Get ready to celebrate World Gin Day in style with Boutique Richmond distillery, Brogan’s Way, set to release a new and improved version of their beloved Strawberries and Cream Gin on 1st June. This refreshing and authentic gin flavour was first introduced as a limited edition seasonal product in May 2022 and quickly became a favourite among gin lovers. Due to high demand, Brogan’s Way launched a second batch in January 2023, and now, it is officially a part of their core range of award-winning gins. To meet the growing demand for this fruity and creamy gin, Head Distiller, Brogan Carr, has replaced the limited edition capacity size of 500ml with a larger 700ml bottle that comes with a new strawberry-inspired label and familiar Brogan’s Way gold foil branding. The new core range Strawberries and Cream Gin is fresh, bright, and full of delectable strawberry flavour, featuring notes of delicate yet zesty juniper. The combination of spicy and floral flavours perfectly complement the strawberry sweetness, along with the deliciously rich texture of distilled cream. “We always knew we had created a fantastic product when we first released Brogan’s Way Strawberries and Cream, but we have still been surprised at just how popular it has become in little over a year. Because of this, it really made sense for us to give Strawberries & Cream a permanent place in our core range. Now we can celebrate the classic pairing of strawberries and cream all year long,” says Brogan. Brogan’s Way Strawberries and Cream Gin is sure… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, FOOD & DRINK

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