Category: FOOD & DRINK

5 top South Australian restaurants for food and wine

Cocobei Food 27

Australia’s culinary landscape is as diverse and vibrant as its breathtaking scenery. From the bustling laneways of Melbourne to the sun-kissed shores of Sydney, each corner of this vast continent offers a unique gastronomic experience. This article introduces you to an array of distinctive restaurants that not only showcase the rich tapestry of Australia’s food culture but are also worth the trip in their own right. Whether you’re craving the freshest seafood, innovative plant-based cuisine, or flavours that traverse the globe, join us as we explore the establishments that are putting Australia firmly on the world’s culinary map. Karrawatta Wines Located at 164 Greenhills Rd, Meadows SA 5201, Karratta Wines’ highlights let you discover the scenic beauty of Adelaide Hills on your way to Karrawatta Wines, a place where passion meets tradition. Enjoy the breathtaking views and taste wines that are a true expression of the region, thanks to their commitment to low-intervention winemaking and organic farming. Explore the essence of their vineyards, perfectly suited to the Adelaide HIlls, McLaren Vale, and Langhorne Creek. Magill Estate Restaurant Find it at 78 Penfold Road, Adelaide SA 5072, where, nestled in the beautiful Adelaide foothills, Magill Estate Restaurant offers a blend of modern dining and stunning scenery. Guests can enjoy contemporary dishes and an impressive wine selection, all while taking in breathtaking views that make every meal special. Restaurant Botanic At Plane Tree Dr, Adelaide SA 5000, Botanic’s highlights are that it’s located within the stunning 51-hectare Adelaide Botanic Garden, Restaurant Botanic provides a unique dining experience… Read More

Top restaurants open in Sydney this Easter weekend

Cirrus lobster seafood

Easter weekend in Sydney is not just a time for egg hunts and chocolate bunnies; it’s also an opportunity to explore the city’s vibrant culinary scene. From waterfront dining with breathtaking views of the Harbour to cosy laneway eateries serving up inventive fusion cuisine, Sydney offers a plethora of dining experiences to make your Easter weekend unforgettable. Whether you’re in the mood for freshly caught seafood, authentic Italian pasta, or a modern Australian feast, we’ve scoured the city to bring you the best places to eat in Sydney this Easter weekend. Hop into Easter at The Rocks, Barangaroo and Darling Harbour with a range of long lunches and exclusive Easter menus.  The Rocks Promising some of Sydney’s best Easter eats, indulge in a themed afternoon tea, signature hot cross buns and artisanal goods. More details here. Darling Harbour Elevated Easter feasts, family fun and long lunches! Darling Harbour truly is Sydney’s hub for Easter festivities, no matter what you’re looking for. More details here. Barangaroo Embrace the true essence of the Easter long weekend by indulging in long lunches, feasts and sweet treats by the water in Barangaroo. More details here.

The Ultimate Culinary Experience: Good Food & Wine Show 2024

food van JA GFWS Sydney2023 Friday 155

The diary of every food and wine connoisseur in the nation is marked with anticipation for the return of the beloved Good Food & Wine Show, now announcing its grand 2024 circuit. Celebrating its 23rd year, this hallmark event continues to be the beating heart of the country’s food and wine culture, inviting over 100,000 enthusiasts annually. With the promise of an even richer array of offerings, the 2024 iteration takes a leap forward, focusing on “affordable luxuries and indulgences” that ensure a spectrum of delightful take-home treats and gourmet ideas suited to every budget. At the core of the event is the cherished Cooking Main Stage, anticipated to dazzle with a lineup of celebrity chefs unveiling their culinary secrets. It’s a space where inspiration meets entertainment, with visitors poised to leave armed with innovative recipe ideas. The introduction of The Australian Eggs Flip It Cooking Stage sees culinary luminaries like Dani Venn and Jane de Graaff demonstrating elevated, nourishing dishes live. Additionally, a luxuriant tea experience awaits at The Art of Luxury Tea with Dilmah 85 Reserve, while the RIEDEL Drinks Lab and Wine Selectors Tasting Room promise to expand palates with expert-guided wine tastings from diverse Australian terroirs. Exclusivity takes form in the Singapore Airlines VIP Lounge, offering a premium respite with gourmet menus and select beverages for Business Class ticket holders. The Loire Valley Wine Experience and the fun DrinkWise tasting tracker scratchie card further enrich the event, ensuring immersive wine education and responsible enjoyment. Not to forget, the introduction of two… Read More

Explore the ultimate ‘Cheese your own adventure’

Screenshot 20240324 201847

Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the art of cheese and the allure of fine wines? Look no further than Melbourne’s beloved Maker & Monger, where an extraordinary ‘Cheese Your Own Adventure’ dine-in experience awaits. Nestled within the vibrant Prahran Market, Maker & Monger invites you to indulge in an unparalleled selection of exquisite cheeses and exceptional wines, all while basking in the infectious ambiance of this iconic marketplace. Crafting Your Bespoke Cheese Board At Maker & Monger, the ‘Cheese Your Own Adventure’ experience is nothing short of enchanting. Picture this: you have the opportunity to engage with expert wine buyers and cheesemongers, guiding you through the process of crafting your very own bespoke cheese board. The journey begins with selecting your desired weight of cheese, each offering a distinct and tantalizing flavor profile. Then, for a mere $15 per cheese board, delight in the array of accoutrements carefully curated to elevate your sensory experience – think luscious crackers, succulent dried fruits, and more. Unveiling Extraordinary Wines As you savor the delectable cheeses, prepare to be captivated by a selection of left-of-centre, biodynamic wines sourced from renowned vineyards such as Cobaw Ridge in Victoria, Gentle Folk in Adelaide, and Mosse from the Loire Valley. What’s more, these exceptional wines are available at retail prices, ensuring an extraordinary value that’s at least half of what you’d typically pay at a restaurant. Plus, with the option to take your bottle home if unfinished, the allure of these remarkable wines extends far beyond… Read More

Bianchetto Bar Lights Up Kew’s Nightlife

Bianchetto AriannaLeggiero 148

Kew’s nightlife just received a significant upgrade with the opening of Bianchetto Bar, an elegant cocktail lounge designed to complement the existing Mister Bianco space. The much-anticipated venture by Owner Joe Vargetto aims to bring the community together for a sophisticated drinking experience like no other. Located adjacent to the popular Mister Bianco restaurant, which made its debut late last year, Bianchetto creates a seamless blend of dining and drinking on the ground floor, with the added allure of La Sala function spaces upstairs. Bianchetto sets itself apart with an intimate atmosphere, featuring sexy booths, muted lighting, and a classy yet welcoming vibe. This chic cocktail bar has been crafted as the perfect accompaniment to Mister Bianco, offering a destination where locals can meet, mingle, and relish in a meticulously crafted cocktail menu. The brainchild behind these innovative drinks is award-winning bartender Orlando Marzo, founder of Drinks by Loro, who brings to the table creations like the Sicilian Sour, Bellini, and a distinctive Bergamot Negroni. A highlight of the Bianchetto experience is the Signature Americano Al Tavolo, a show-stopping trolley service that serves your drink right at the table, ensuring a memorable and bespoke experience. Alongside the innovative cocktails, Bianchetto also features a select range of local and Italian wines and beers, ensuring there’s something to suit every palate. The bar doesn’t stop at drinks; an enticing seasonal bar menu by Joe Vargetto and his team complements the beverage offerings. From ‘Nduja-filled Olives Ascolana to a hot-pressed Pane e Mortadella “Scaccia” using locally sourced mortadella,… Read More

Mad Mex is now doing steak

Naked burrito bowl

Mad Mex has set a new benchmark for authentic Mexican cuisine in Australia with the launch of its Carne Asada dish, blending tradition with the fast-paced world of fast-casual dining. This initiative, debuting on March 18, 2024, signifies more than just the addition of premium, pasture-raised skirt steak to its already vibrant menu. It’s an embodiment of Mexican culture’s rich culinary heritage, brought to life in a format that’s both affordable and accessible to its diverse Australian clientele. The Carne Asada offering at Mad Mex isn’t just about serving grilled steak; it’s about delivering an authentic Mexican experience. The skirt steak, preferred for its flavor and tradition in Mexican cuisine, undergoes a rigorous marination process in a bespoke blend of citrus and spices, mirroring the practices of the best Mexican taquerias. This meticulous preparation process, spanning six months of development, underscores Mad Mex’s commitment to authenticity and quality, while still aligning with their mission of offering healthier fast food options. Founded on the principle that Mexican food should be as nourishing as it is flavorful, Mad Mex differentiates itself by offering fully customizable meals that cater to various dietary preferences, including vegan, gluten-free, and vegetarian options. This approach not only caters to the growing demand for healthier eating options but also emphasizes the brand’s inclusive ethos, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The limited-time offer of Carne Asada in Mad Mex restaurants, on delivery, and via the Mad Mex app, starting from March 18, 2024, presents a unique opportunity for Australians to indulge in a premium… Read More

Rhys Nicholson and Melbourne Gin Company unveil exclusive collab

RhysNicholsonGinCompany

In an extraordinary melding of talent and taste, Australian comedian, actor, and “RuPaul’s Drag Race Down Under” judge Rhys Nicholson is about to stir the gin industry with a splash of humour and a twist of creativity. Partnering with The Melbourne Gin Company (MGC), Nicholson is set to unveil their own signature gin line, The Rhys Nicholson Gin Company. This refined spirit, which marries a sense of comedy, artistry, and a flavour of Melbourne, will make its grand entrance at Comedy Republic on March 28, coinciding with the vibrant Melbourne International Comedy Festival. Renowned for a sharp wit and a vibrant presence both on stage and screen, Nicholson is taking a bold step into the world of spirits, infusing the industry with their unique charm. The Rhys Nicholson Gin, meticulously crafted by MGC’s owner and distiller, Andrew Marks, boasts a classic dry gin foundation accentuated with fresh citrus and abundant juniper. However, it’s the ingenious addition of fresh ginger and ruby grapefruit that mirrors Nicholson’s exuberant personality and refined taste preferences. “My body mass has been mostly premium gin for the better part of two decades, so it feels only right I attach my name to one. Having been a huge (and responsible) consumer of MGC for years, I am borderline hysterical to get to work with them on our little project. This is my dream Gin. Smooth, clean and refreshing, with a hint of citrus and ginger, and not that uncouth flavoured spirit vibe. Perfect for a martini. Or whatever, to be honest. I’m… Read More

Go and try Hills Distilling Co. in Rouse Hill

Screenshot 20240322 183332

Get ready to immerse yourself in the authentic spirit of craft and community as Hills Distilling Co. opened its doors in Rouse Hill this Friday, March 15th. This landmark launch marks the debut of the Hills District’s very first locally owned distillery, a venture that promises to redefine handcrafted premium spirits production within the vibrant local landscape. A Fusion of Artistry and Authenticity Managed by Momento Hospitality, a renowned Sydney hospitality group with deep roots dating back to a Baulkham Hill’s bottle shop in 1976, Hills Distilling Co. stands as a testament to a legacy of passion and dedication to the craft. The architectural design, masterfully led by the prominent firm Archebiosis, embodies functionality and industrial elegance, drawing inspiration from the core ingredients and botanicals that define the art of spirit production. Unveiling the Distillery Experience The venue encompasses a captivating mezzanine level, housing tanks for blending and an exquisite selection of barrels for the intricate process of aging different products, each to be unveiled once matured. The ground floor includes the inviting Cellar Door, featuring a chic bar, a retail space, and a communal tasting table accommodating groups of six. Every Friday, from 3-6 pm, the Cellar Door welcomes guests to savor gin tastings paired with a curated selection of premium mixers and uniquely crafted cocktails. To complement these delightful libations, Chef Sebastian Tan from JINJA presents a rotating menu of handmade dancing dumplings, ensuring a sensorial journey of flavors that harmonize with the spirits on offer. Embracing Community Spirit The open-plan seating area… Read More

It’s National Noodle Month at Sydney Place

Noodles

As we embrace National Noodle Month, the spotlight is on Sydney’s culinary landscape, particularly its bustling dining precinct, Sydney Place. If you’re on the hunt for a tantalizing noodle experience, look no further! Here’s a curated selection of venues that promise to elevate your noodle indulgence to new heights. 1. Yasaka Ramen, Sydney Place Established in 2014, Yasaka Ramen stands as one of the pioneering establishments in Sydney’s ramen scene. Renowned for its signature Tonkotsu broth, meticulously crafted from pork bones and water, this luscious broth has garnered a dedicated following over the years. The two-step cooking process ensures an intricately developed flavor profile, offering a delightful symphony of taste. Fresh noodles, crafted daily on-site, along with a rotating menu of innovative dishes, make Yasaka Ramen a haven for aficionados seeking an endless journey of ramen appreciation. 2. BoBo Dumpling Bar, Sydney Place A delightful offshoot of Cantonese eatery Tao, BoBo Dumpling Bar celebrates the art of dumplings and more. Embracing age-old recipes with a contemporary twist, BoBo presents a playful take on beloved classics. From delectable dumplings and dim sum to sizzling hot pan dishes and stir-fried noodles, each offering boasts a fusion of traditional flavors and modern flair. Whether it’s the Fried Chicken Gyoza, King Prawn Pot Stickers, or the aromatic Roasted Duck, BoBo Dumpling Bar promises a delightful exploration of Cantonese cuisine. 3. Malay Chinese Noodle Bar, Sydney Place Step into the world of authentic Malay culinary mastery at Malay Chinese Noodle Bar, where the aroma of carefully crafted laksa varieties fills… Read More

Pidapipo’s creations for Melbourne Food & Wine Festival 2024

Screenshot 20240322 180004

As we step into the month of March, the excitement around the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival (MFWF) continues to soar, and there’s no shortage of remarkable events to captivate your taste buds. If you’re looking to add a dash of thrill to your MFWF experience, the Pidapipo collaboration promises a fusion of savoury and sweet flavors that will leave you craving for more! A Delectable Fusion: Salty Sweet Pidapipo, known for its innovative and delectable gelato creations, has joined forces with expert chef and restaurateur Dan Hong to introduce “Salty Sweet” as a captivating addition to this year’s MFWF lineup. This extraordinary collaboration brings together the expertise of Pidapipo and the culinary ingenuity of Dan Hong to offer an unprecedented culinary journey. Gelato Creations Beyond Imagination From the 16th of March throughout the festival, indulge in three unique and specially crafted gelato flavors exclusively available at Pidapipo stores. The one-of-a-kind creations include: Unforgettable Launch Party March 16th marks the much-anticipated launch day, where the Fitzroy Laboratorio will host an unforgettable party featuring Asian-inspired sweet and savoury treats with a Pidapipo twist, meticulously curated and tested by Dan Hong himself, alongside Pidapipo’s co-founder Lisa Valmorbida. Exclusive event-only dishes at this celebration include: This one-of-a-kind collaboration promises an unmatched culinary experience, blending the artistry of gelato with the culinary brilliance of Dan Hong, ensuring an unforgettable journey of flavors and creativity. For those seeking an adventure for the senses, the Salty Sweet collaboration is a must-visit, offering an exclusive opportunity to savor the unexpected and celebrate… Read More