Category: FOOD & DRINK

Patrón is shouting Sydney-siders 10,000 caviar bumps with their next tequila cocktail

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If you thought tequila was tasty enough, try elevating it with a bump of caviar. Yes, you read that right! To celebrate the fast approach of summer and the launch of the world’s first quadruple-distilled prestige tequila PATRÓN EL CIELO, Patrón has teamed up with some of Sydney’s coolest Mexican bars and restaurants to give away 10,000 luxe Umai Heritage caviar bumps with every PATRÓN EL CIELO cocktail from a limited-edition menu. Naturally we had to sample this from our favourite tequila-joint, Taqiza (who have a new home in Bondi that is even prettier than the first on!). Trying the PATRÓN EL CIELO on the rocks was a heady, smooth and sweet experience, that was only heightened by the saltiness of the caviar. The perfect pairing nobody knows about, but now we can’t stop thinking of. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Milpa Collective (@milpa.collective) If straight tequila isn’t your jam (no matter how smooth), there are also two delicious PATRÓN EL CIELO cocktails on the menu: If you want to live the luxe life and experience the new release from Patrón with some caviar, you can do so for a limited time from the following Milpa Collective Mexican venues:

A fresh taste of Vietnam at St. Cloud Eating House

St Cloud KDPO 6th October GRIFFIN SIMM Finals 33 Vietnamese asian food chopsticks

This month, the renowned St. Cloud Eating House in Hawthorn East breathes new life into its culinary offering. The restaurant, located at 644 Burwood Road, is set to tantalise tastebuds with an explosion of Vietnamese flavours, thanks to celebrated chef Jerry Mai. Since its inception in 2015, St. Cloud Eating House, under the stewardship of hospitality veteran James Klapanis, has maintained its commitment to serving ferociously fresh Vietnamese cuisine to the denizens of Melbourne. The exciting and vibrant menu revamp is spearheaded by none other than the remarkable Jerry Mai, known for her culinary masterpieces at Pho Nom, Annam, and Bia Hoi Beer Hall. Mai’s flair for Vietnamese cuisine is widely acclaimed, and she now brings her unique touch to the St. Cloud Eating House. The restaurant’s new culinary journey is further bolstered by the recent collaboration between Klapanis and Angie Giannakodakis, stalwarts of the Melbourne hospitality scene. This partnership brings a renewed focus on generosity – striving to put the hospitality back in hospitality, as Giannakodakis puts it. St. Cloud’s refreshed food ethos is all about sharing and savouring every bite. Jerry Mai has expertly curated a menu that balances familiar Vietnamese flavours with unexpected new elements. Diners can expect a tantalising array of small plates, from grilled scallops with wild onion butter and nuoc mam to sticky lamb ribs with tamarind caramel. A highlight includes an irresistible beef cheek green curry— a testament to Mai’s Thai culinary influences. For those with a sweet tooth, the restaurant offers a duo of indulgent desserts —… Read More

Centennial Homestead in Sydney launches ‘Rosé & Croquet’ activation

Women wine outside

Centennial Homestead, in partnership with AIX, reveals its latest summer sensation, the ‘Rosé & Croquet’ activation. Experience the ultimate garden party, filled to the brim with an abundance of rosé and complimentary mini croquet kits for patrons. This activation aims to immerse you in the quintessential family-friendly summer experience. By marrying the enchanting ambiance of parklands with the distinguished allure of AIX rosé wine, Centennial Homestead and AIX have concocted a delightful setting. Expect an expanded outdoor seating area equipped with additional seats, picnic blankets, umbrellas and abundant opportunities to create lasting memories. AIX is excited to roll out special prices on their premium Provence Rosé to celebrate this activation, with glasses at $16, standard bottles at $75, magnum bottles at $140, and the monumental Jeroboam bottle at $250, exclusively at Centennial Homestead. Centennial Homestead’s executive chef, Jeffrey Forrest, presents meticulously crafted picnic boards priced at $43 per person. It features a gourmet selection of the finest cheeses and cured meats. The casual dining menu will remain available throughout the activation period, offering fresh, contemporary dishes with a twist on traditional home-cooked favorites. AIX is thrilled about their summer activation. “That’s the beauty of AIX Rosé, its versatility to pair with any occasion. AIX tastes best when shared.” states Maison Saint Aix, Provence. Expect to bask in an unforgettable and inclusive atmosphere, celebrating leisure, enjoyment, and relaxation all throughout summer. The ‘Rosé & Croquet’ activation will continue until 31st December 2023, operating from Wednesday to Sunday, 12pm – 5pm, aligning with the venue’s closing hours…. Read More

Embrace authentic fusion of tradition and innovation at Australian Gin Week

Gin bottles

In the heart of Australia, a unique partnership is set to celebrate the richness and diversity of the nation’s gin industry. For Australian Gin Week, Seven Seasons, an iconic gin brand known for its remarkable interpretations of indigenous Australian flavours, has partnered with the award-winning Rekodo Restaurant & Vinyl Bar at Barangaroo House. Together, they are unveiling the Green Ant Gin Martini, a bold new creation that captures the vibrant flavours of Australian flora. From the 15th of November to the 14th of December, patrons of Rekodo will be able to indulge in a special Green Ant Gin Martini and snack menu. This collaboration not only puts the spotlight on Seven Season Spirits’ acclaimed Green Ant Gin, but also entwines the rich history and flavours of Australian flora in an exciting culinary experience. Award-winning bartender, Jai Lyons, will be the mastermind behind the Green Ant Martini, while head chef Michael Dabbs has crafted a bespoke menu that perfectly complements the unique notes of the cocktail. Among the standout offerings is the Steak tartare temaki with koji, finger lime dressing, and a green ant garnish priced at $14. In addition, the Green Ant Gin Martini will feature at 50 of Australia’s top venues, including Margaret & West Hotels in New South Wales, Vue de Monde & Sunda in Victoria, Sasso Italiano & Rosellas Bar in Queensland, and Sofitel & Fleet Street Social in South Australia. Each venue will add their unique twist to the cocktail, further elevating the martini experience. Seven Seasons, founded by former AFL… Read More

Art of perfect pasta: a guide to authentic Italian cuisine

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Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, the secret to great pasta lies in simplicity and quality. At 400 Gradi, they have honed the pasta-making process to create mouth-watering dishes that our patrons simply can’t get enough of. Remember, the key to perfect pasta is attention to detail, patience, and love for the process. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s bring the charm of Italian cooking right into your kitchen!

Vue de monde and Lui Bar: A Fresh New Chapter Begins

Vue de monde dining room Jason Loucas

Australia’s crown jewel in the culinary world, Vue de monde, alongside its sibling bar, Lui, and premier event space, are back at Melbourne’s Rialto Towers, unveiling their fresh and exciting new faces after a three-month hiatus. Vue de monde, renowned at both national and international levels, presents a distinctive dining room and a kitchen that have both been significantly revitalised. Executive chef, Hugh Allen, shares his enthusiasm over the improvements, “The transformation of Vue de monde and Lui Bar, a project several years in the making, is finally complete. The hiatus provided us with the time we needed to craft exquisite menus for both the restaurant and the bar. We eagerly await our loyal clientele’s reactions to the changes and look forward to welcoming new guests to our venues.” Vue de monde, under the leadership of Executive Chef Hugh Allen and General Manager Hugo Simoes, introduces an all-new 18-serving menu. This menu harmoniously mingles familiarity and innovation, continuing Vue de monde’s tradition of showcasing top-notch Australian producers. Lavish dishes include grilled lamb sweetbreads paired with asparagus from Koo Wee Rup and fermented macadamia sauce; padrón peppers stuffed with heirloom eggplant cooked in wild nasturtium oil, and a decadent two-part marron serving. The dining room now boasts signature Vue de monde tables by Ross Didier and kangaroo hide table tops by Theo Hassett, enhanced lighting, and an overhauled private dining room featuring a bespoke hand-blown light feature by Leisa Wharington. The open kitchen, a long-standing Vue de monde signature, also receives a major upgrade. Lui Bar,… Read More

Summer holiday idea: Hidden Gems of New Zealand’s Wine Country

Driving through the Adelaide Barossa wine vineyards

Welcome, wine connoisseurs and enthusiasts, to an unforgettable journey through the verdant landscapes and rolling hills of New Zealand — a country globally acclaimed for its exceptional wines. With its diverse microclimates, unique soil profiles, and unyielding commitment to quality, New Zealand has positioned itself as a powerhouse in the world of viticulture. Our guide to the best wineries in the country will unveil the rich tapestry of experiences that await, from the internationally renowned vineyards of Marlborough to the burgeoning wine scene of Waipara Valley. So uncork your enthusiasm, as we embark on this vinous adventure together. 1.     Auckland Casually known as the ‘gateway to New Zealand’, West Auckland is where kiwi wine began! As the largest city in New Zealand, Auckland boasts a vibrant wine region just a stone’s throw away from the bustling CBD. Explore the historic Kumeu wine trail, where winemaking traditions have been passed down through generations, and savour world-class Chardonnay and Pinot Gris. 2.     Hawke’s Bay Sitting pretty on the eastern side of the North Island is Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand’s second-largest wine region. Known for its diverse range of wine varietals, this region boasts a Mediterranean climate, which is perfect for ripening red Bordeaux varieties like Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah. It’s also a great place to explore Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and other white wine styles. In addition to the wine, Hawke’s Bay offers a beautiful landscape with stunning vineyard vistas, charming cellar doors, and a thriving food scene. Did you know? Hawke’s Bay was awarded the tile of the 12th Great… Read More

Experience the Unmatched Flavours at UGO Fitzroy: Melbourne’s Gem of Italian Gastronomy

Ugo Fitzroy

Every gastronome’s dream has come to fruition, as UGO Cucina Popolare, heralded for its delightful, simple Italian fare, opens its pop-up location in Fitzroy in the burgeoning Fabbrica development. From Friday to Sunday, locals and food enthusiasts alike will be able to savour UGO’s unmatched coffee and Italian delicacies, courtesy of the seasoned Cannoleria team. As the day breaks, the scent of UGO’s renowned paninis wafts through the air. These aren’t your average sandwiches – they’re an adventure for your taste buds, available in five unique porchetta-infused varieties. Each panini is a meticulously crafted masterpiece served on focaccia with flavours that range from semolina to cocoa. Vegetarians, fear not – UGO’s Vego panini, with its eggplant caponata and burrata on barese focaccia, offers an enticing option for the plant-based crowd. If breakfast is your preferred meal, enjoy a selection of morning dishes until noon with the option to add a hearty serving of porchetta or creamy burrata. For dessert, indulge in Cannoleria cannoli, freshly piped and ready to satisfy your sweet tooth, or choose from Biscotti Della Nonna and the Ciambellone Sponge Cake. But what’s a visit to a Melbourne cafe without the perfect coffee blend? St Remio Coffee is ready to be served in all its forms – espresso, regular, large, or mocha – catering to the discerning tastes of all coffee aficionados. If you’re seeking the best cafe in inner North Melbourne, your search ends at UGO Fitzroy. UGO Cucina Popolare is ready to welcome you from Friday to Sunday, 8am-3pm, at 369… Read More

Why you need to go back to Spice Temple: Crabs!

Spice Temple crab noodles

Spice Temple, the much-loved regional Chinese restaurant in Melbourne and Sydney, is celebrating Mud Crab season in true style, offering a feast featuring Australia’s native crabs – affectionately known as ‘Muddies’. These sumptuous crustaceans are at their seasonal best, boasting luxurious, irresistibly sweet flesh. As a quintessential ingredient in Chinese cooking and a star of the banquet style of dining at Spice Temple, the live Mud Crabs, sourced directly from Queensland, are cooked to order and dressed in delicious authentic sauces. The spice of the season, until Sunday, 31st December, is the $99 price point on all Mud Crab dishes – a value-packed proposition for a flavour-packed dish that promises to be a show-stopper at any group gathering over the summer, holiday and festive celebrations. Under the expert guidance of Spice Temple’s Executive Chef Andy Evans, the Mud Crabs are steamed to perfection to ensure their sweet, delicate flesh remains tender and untainted. Diners can choose from a variety of five traditional sauces to accompany the delectable crab meat. As the Mud Crab season progresses and the summer heat intensifies, Spice Temple’s menu will also feature Blue Swimmer Crabs and Snow Crabs, each adding their own unique flavours to the mix. For Chef Andy, Mud Crabs and live seafood are the epitome of Chinese dining and offer a unique opportunity to present the regional Chinese flavours that Spice Temple is famous for. In his words, “Mud Crabs are often considered a luxury, but the real treat for our guests this season is the limited-time $99… Read More

Discover the Allure of Hickson House: Your New Favourite Destination for Gin Delights

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Hickson House in Sydney is redefining the gin tasting experience with an array of exciting updates, ready to transport you into a world of unique gin-centric exploration. Starting today, the doors will open daily from 10 am, with tasting flights guided by our knowledgeable distillery door manager amidst the captivating backdrop of our towering, copper stills. This tantalising experience is available for just $10, which can be redeemed off any bottle purchase. Our expansive distillery store is stocked with all five of our award-winning Hickson House gins – Australian Dry, Classic Dry, Harbour Strength, Seven Spice, and Summer Cup. We also offer a range of gin-related products, like our delectable Martini olives and house-smoked Gibson onions, to amplify your gin experience. Our new release, Hickson House Wild Rosé Summer Cup, has been the talk of the town. A contemporary Australian twist on classic British fruit cup aperitifs, this Limited Edition launched last Summer has swiftly become a crowd favourite. Having won both Gold and Best in Class (Flavoured Gin) at the Australian Gin Awards 2023, it now forms a permanent part of Hickson House’s range. We believe in sustainability and make conscious efforts to reduce our environmental footprint. We source ingredients and native botanicals locally whenever possible and use handmade stills from country New South Wales. Our commitment to sustainability extends to our bottle return policy, where patrons can bring used Hickson gin bottles back for refills or exchanges. Adding to the excitement, we offer Bottomless Gin Brunches from 11 am on weekends. These brunches… Read More