Category: FOOD & DRINK

Australia’s got a new gin – Grown Gin

Grown gin

by

Posted: 30/08/2023

Grown Spirits, a boutique gin brand known for its love of gardens and commitment to sustainability, has revealed its newest offering, Ocean Grown Gin. This unique creation is a result of a pioneering partnership with the Reef Restoration Foundation. With a vision to capture the essence of the ocean in a bottle, Grown Spirits also aims to contribute to the environment, pledging a portion of the profits from each bottle sold towards the restoration and rejuvenation of coral reefs along Australia’s stunning North Queensland coastline. Will Miles, Co-Founder of Grown Spirits, encapsulates their sustainability ethos, stating, “When we started Grown Spirits nearly a decade ago, we were very conscious of unnecessary waste and designed the bottle to have a life beyond just single use – our wider than usual neck is an encouragement to repurpose the bottle as a vase. In 2021, we took a step further by creating Sydney’s first Gin Refill Station as a way to help with bottle waste, and now this latest release attempts to be even more active in combating our ever-changing environment.” This Ocean-inspired gin intends to encapsulate the refreshing sensation after a dip in the sea, the lingering taste of salt on your lips, and the pleasure of a punchy beachside cocktail. On the nose, it exhibits a gentle saline character, reminiscent of a Mediterranean sea breeze, and unveils notes of olive and savoury herbs. The palate unravels a bright and refreshing flavour profile with dry citrus tones and a warm hint of spice. Ryan Donnelly, CEO of… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, FOOD & DRINK

Tags: , , ,

Celebrating 20 Years of Community Connection: First Drop Café Opens New Location in Marrickville

Food flat lay

by

Posted: 30/08/2023

In the heart of Marrickville, a delightful mix of tradition and innovation is brewing. First Drop, a community-loved café founded by Michael Savvakis, announces the opening of its second branch on the occasion of its 20th business anniversary. Joined in this endeavour by his brother-in-law Christopher Hing, the duo brings to Marrickville the same warmth, friendliness, and culinary delight that made their first café a staple in the Sydney food scene. First Drop’s journey began in 2003 as a quaint corner café on Baptist & Telopea Street, Redfern. Michael Savvakis’ vision of a local café transformed into a community sanctuary offering classic breakfast and lunchtime favourites. Keeping things simple and excelling at the basics became First Drop’s success mantra. In 2007, Christopher Hing officially joined the business, making First Drop a family affair. His Greek and Chinese heritage brought an enticing fusion of flavours to the menu, enriching the café’s offerings. Now, two decades later, First Drop is ready to infuse the multicultural Marrickville, perfectly aligning with its unique ethos. The secret to First Drop’s success lies in its deep-rooted connections with its customers. Co-founders Chris and Michael’s hands-on approach to service nurtures a familial and communal atmosphere. Their commitment to local suppliers and popular offers like Redfern’s Bottomless brunch have earned First Drop its stellar reputation for quality. The new Marrickville outlet promises exciting options for functions and catering, including a spacious indoor and outdoor patio area. The new menu at Marrickville continues to reflect First Drop’s commitment to simplicity and authenticity. From the… Read More

Category: CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

Tags: , , , ,

Discover Sydney’s chicest Sushi Train in the heart of Barangaroo

kokumai barangaroo sushi e1693208037146

by

Updated: 28/08/2023

If you think you’ve seen one sushi train you’ve seen them all, think again, because Kokumai’s newest branch in Barangaroo is classy, chic and most importantly scrumptious. Like their Circular Quay restaurant, Kokumai brings their token freshness and flair to their Barangaroo joint. Dishes are prepared for the train by the skilled in house team, as well as menu options that are made fresh, often right in front of you. There’s something very calming about watching a sushi master go about his craft while you wind down with a saké (or two) in the monochrome interior. Stand out hot dishes include their most-popular and unexpected best seller corn ribs, and the potato mochi from their izakaya menu. Yes, we did say potato mochi, and it brings the exact texture you know and love from the desert variety to the savoury kind! We did also say izakaya menu, because Kokumai is catering for the after work crowd just like they would in Japan and has special snack menu that all pair perfectly with a cold beer so you can let the worries of the day go. If you’re looking for sushi that’s a little more up market, Kokumai cannot be missed. We tried the Otoro nigiri, which is tuna belly, and it simply melted in our mouths. You can’t fault the presentation on any dishes, including the surprising amount of vegetarian options. You can also do the Omakase experience at their bar and let the chefs select the best sashimis and flavours of the day, while… Read More

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

Tags: , , , ,

SPON: new wine bar and bottleshop in Sydney

Spon shop wine alcohol Sydney

by

Posted: 26/08/2023

Odd Culture Group, renowned for their innovative approach in the food and beverage industry, has launched its latest venture – SPON. This new wine bar and bottle shop, located on King Street, Newtown, is set to revolutionise the art of wine tasting in the area. With the primary focus on serving an eclectic mix of wild, rare, and exciting wines, ales, and other fascinating beverages, SPON empowers guests with the freedom to curate their own by-the-glass selection. This unique concept is aimed at deconstructing the barriers often associated with discovering, tasting, and enjoying new or rare produce. To commemorate the launch, SPON is offering $6 glasses of Pét-nat, orange, or chilled red wine for the whole of August through September. Alongside, visitors can enjoy half-price corkage and the occasional surprise of exclusive bottles from the cellar. James Thorpe, CEO of Odd Culture Group, said, “SPON is designed to make the unfamiliar familiar, transforming what might be seen as esoteric into easily understood and enjoyed beverages. We hope to enhance the interaction and knowledge sharing with our guests.” Offering a unique rotational open-bottle list of 12 primarily wines, large-format ales, and ciders, SPON encourages a dynamic and exploratory experience for guests. The by-the-glass price is a mere fraction of the takeaway price, making even the rarest of wines accessible to all. Jordan Blackman, Group Beverage Manager, expressed his excitement about the new concept: “This format allows us to open and serve some truly unique and unusual drinks that wouldn’t usually make it onto by-the-glass lists in… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, SYDNEY

Tags: , , ,

Kentucky – The Heartland of Bourbon, Now Available in Australia

WISE CHAI BOTTLE

by

Updated: 24/08/2023

Once heralded as the capital of bourbon, Kentucky is renowned for housing 95% of the global bourbon production. Today, we are thrilled to announce the arrival of ‘The Wiseman‘, a distinguished Kentucky straight whiskey, now officially available to whisky enthusiasts in Australia. The Wiseman Bourbon is the brainchild of Master Blender John Rhea, a member of the revered Bourbon Hall of Fame with an illustrious 40-year career under his belt. Rhea returned from retirement to craft this extraordinary spirit, which tantalises the senses with a gentle touch of citrus coupled with an implicit whisper of oak. Receiving the illustrious Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2022 and 2023, this bourbon boasts a captivating sweet caramel aroma with a warming hint of allspice, offering a beautiful balance of flavours in every sip. The Wiseman collection also extends to include ‘The Wiseman Rye’ – a whiskey with a vibrant personality. Bagging a Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2022, this exceptional Kentucky straight rye whiskey is a testament to the craftsmanship and artistry of whiskey making. The rich and spicy nose emanates an inviting aroma of fresh rye bread, subtly offset by a hint of sweet caramel and cinnamon. Its audacious flavours fill the palate with a rich, full-bodied essence, enticing with every sip. At the core of these exceptional spirits is the legendary John Rhea. Following a decorated career, Rhea emerged from retirement in 2021 to channel his vast knowledge and expertise into The Wiseman and The Wiseman Rye…. Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, FOOD & DRINK

Tags: ,

Where to go for grog: Barrelhouse Cellars

Barrelhouse Cellars bar wine shop

by

Posted: 21/08/2023

Barrelhouse Group, renowned for its creations Hickson House, The Barber Shop, and The Duke of Clarence, takes great pleasure in introducing its latest venture, Barrelhouse Cellars. This exciting new addition to Sydney’s historical district nestles comfortably in its historic paved courtyard, offering a unique experience that includes individual tastings and themed flight offerings of Australian gins and New World whiskies. Leading the operations of Barrelhouse Cellars is industry stalwart Nick Minogue, who plans to highlight craft producers with a strong Australian focus. The Cellars will feature a private wine collection and a specially-curated selection of spirits to pair with their award-winning Hickson Rd. Gins. As Nick states, “Whether you’re a local popping in on a weeknight, or a traveller seeking a memorable, local shopping experience, we’ll find you the perfect drop.” To enhance the home-serving experience of its patrons, Barrelhouse Cellars also offers bottled cocktails from premier local bars, hand-cut ice, cocktail garnishes, and a range of artisanal cheeses, pates, and charcuterie. The team provides careful packaging for nationwide delivery, or same day in Sydney, via their online store at www.barrelhousecellars.com. As co-founders Julian Train and Mikey Enright state, “The Cellars is the next stage of our longer-term vision for The Rocks. We wanted to create an accessible, inviting, local bottle shop; drawing on our hospitality experience to add a few features we couldn’t find elsewhere. The paved tasting courtyard is particularly special. Come down soon to grab a sip and a bottle.”

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

Tags: , , , , ,

Peruvian in Sydney: welcome Warike to Surry Hills

Peruvian food table flat

by

Posted: 19/08/2023

In the energetic culinary enclave of Surry Hills, there exists an intriguing gastronomic journey that has been steadily enchanting the palates of Sydney folk. Jointly owned by Luis Guzman, Valeriya Finogeeva, and Executive Chef Hector Chunga, Warike has rapidly ascended to the culinary spotlight, shaking up the scene with its unique intermingling of Peruvian and Mediterranean influences. Warike has become a byword for authenticity, innovation, and the invigorating thrill of novel flavours, evolving from an unassuming home-based start-up into a local dining sensation. “Our journey commenced when I began cooking at home during the lockdown. Our passion for sharing the diverse and stimulating flavours of Peru pushed us to expand beyond the limits of my apartment,” shares Luis Guzman, co-proprietor of Warike. Drawing inspiration from the traditional ‘Warikes’ of Peru—unassuming, hidden dining spots revered for their spectacular food and homely ambience—Warike recreates a similar atmosphere in its 46-seater establishment. The restaurant’s philosophy, which hinges on authenticity and shared enjoyment, is flawlessly reflected in its decor and warm, hospitable service. The creative menu at Warike is a beautiful testament to the harmonious fusion of Peruvian and Mediterranean gastronomy. Chef Chunga, whose rich culinary background spans Peru, Japan, and Australia, uses his enthusiasm and proficiency to design dishes that are as visually appealing as they are flavourful. The star dishes, such as the ‘Ceviche Clásico’ and ‘Lomo Saltado’, embody a perfect blend of Peru’s fresh, lively tastes with the robust, intense flavours of the Mediterranean. The menu adapts with the seasons, allowing Warike to utilise fresh Australian… Read More

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

Tags: , , , , ,

Attention coffee lovers! Nespresso has two new machine

Nespresso machines

by

Posted: 14/08/2023

Embrace the winter warmth of a cosy coffee moment right at home with two new NESPRESSO premium offerings – the Vertuo Lattissima and Vertuo Creatista. These remarkable machines are designed to deliver café-quality milk coffees with ease, transforming your kitchen into your favourite coffee shop. In line with recent studies highlighting that an astounding 91% of Aussie coffee aficionados prefer their beloved brew with milk, and a significant 75% making their coffee themselves this year, the new Vertuo range is poised to revolutionise the at-home coffee experience. The Vertuo Lattissima and Vertuo Creatista incorporate unique milk solutions into NESPRESSO’s innovative Vertuo system. This system utilises CENTRIFUSION brewing technology to gently release the exquisite aromas and flavours from Vertuo capsules, delivering superior coffee with a generous crema. The Vertuo Lattissima, courtesy of Delonghi, takes the guesswork out of your morning brew. With Delonghi’s Venturi system, it pours the perfect balance of milk and coffee into your cup at a touch of a button. The Vertuo Lattissima features settings for cappuccino and latte macchiato, alongside a dedicated button for that extra milk foam indulgence. For coffee connoisseurs seeking more control, the Vertuo Creatista, designed by Breville, brings the café experience home. The machine features Breville’s automatic barista steam wand and milk jug, allowing you to froth milk like a pro. It offers three adjustable milk temperature and texture settings, making it suitable for any milk, including plant-based alternatives. It’s a gateway to limitless milk recipes and the opportunity to create authentic, Instagram-ready latte art. Nespresso Coffee Ambassador,… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, FOOD & DRINK

Tags: , ,

Embracing cocktails’ future: Aore Island Resort leads with Lyre’s

Lyres spirit alcohol drink

by

Posted: 11/08/2023

Swanky cocktails by the pool are not just a thing of the past; they’re evolving to meet the needs of a booming non-alcoholic drinks market that’s making its mark even in the relaxed beachfront bars of Vanuatu’s luxurious island resorts. “We’ve certainly seen a huge shift,” says Lisa Gray, owner of Aore Island Resort. “A few years ago, unwinding and relaxing meant several cocktails by the pool or at our beachfront bar each evening. Now we’re inundated with requests for mocktails, low-alcoholic options, and fresh juices.” To cater to this changing demand, Aore Island Resort has partnered with Lyre’s, an acclaimed Australian non-alcoholic spirit brand, with the vision of offering guests an array of stylish non-alcoholic cocktails that mirror the elegance and taste of traditional alcoholic equivalents. As of June, Aore will feature a variety of Lyre’s sophisticated non-alcoholic cocktails on their drinks menu, setting a precedent as one of the first in Vanuatu to do so. “When we were approached by Aore, we immediately seized the opportunity to extend our brand into Vanuatu,” says Kelli McPhie, Vice President of Lyre’s Australia and New Zealand. “We’re conscious of the immense shift in drinking habits over the last five years, which spans from total abstinence to mindful drinking and the sober curious. We’re thrilled to partner with such a stunning resort and offer our non-alcoholic products to visiting guests. It’s a win-win for us.” To commemorate this partnership, Lyre’s mixologists have diligently curated a diverse non-alcoholic cocktail menu. The signature offering, the ‘Aore Coconut Mojito’, encapsulates… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, FOOD & DRINK

Tags: , ,

Copyright © 2024 · All Rights Reserved · THE F

About · Terms of Use · Cookies · Privacy · Instagram · Facebook ·