Bask in Southern BBQ Bliss at Le Bon Ton this summer

Posted: 30/11/2024

Le Bon Ton in Collingwood is turning up the heat this summer, drenching Melbourne’s balmy days and nights in American South charm. Think slow-smoked BBQ, indulgent platters, and vibrant celebrations. Whether you’re gathering with mates, sinking into the magic of long southern nights, or just after some good food and good vibes, this is the kind of place to linger. Here’s what’s on the menu – literally and metaphorically. A Thanksgiving Feast You Won’t Forget Skip the stress of cooking and opt for a Thanksgiving banquet with all the smoky, saucy goodness you could dream of. From Thursday, 28th November to Sunday, 1st December, Le Bon Ton dishes up a share-style Southern feast for a wallet-friendly $85 per person. Start with the finger-lickin’ Southern Fried Chicken slathered in Alabama White BBQ Sauce, smoky Eggplant & Mushroom Bites with a Porcini Gravy, and sweet, tangy Crab & Prawn Cakes topped with Preserved Lemon Jam. Then move on to the stars of the show – Smoked Turkey and Brisket paired with Cranberry Relish, Creamy Parmesan Mash drowned in brisket jus, and Mac & Cheese so rich it’s practically a luxury item. For dessert? Pumpkin pie, dripping in caramelised bliss. It’s the kind of fare that makes you undo the top button. You’ve been warned. Summer BBQ, But Better Forget sweating it out over your own backyard barbecue. Le Bon Ton has done all the hard work for you, serving up carnivorous dreams freshly pulled from their smoker. Executive Chef Jake Nicolson, a Melbourne foodie legend (formerly of… Read More

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

Tags: Bon Ton, melbourne restaurants

Asian street food, but better at Hochi Mama Melbourne

by James Banham

Posted: 11/11/2024

Melbourne’s buzzing food scene is set to sizzle this November as Hochi Mama, the beloved Asian-fusion gem, teams up with celebrated cook and MasterChef Australia alum Brendan Pang for an exclusive culinary collaboration. Running from 11 to 24 November, this partnership promises to infuse Hochi Mama’s iconic CBD and Richmond locations with the vibrant flair of Asian street food, all with a tantalising twist. Brendan Pang, renowned for his distinctive blend of Mauritian and Chinese heritage, brings a refreshing perspective to the table with his street food creations. Having captured the hearts of foodies nationwide, Brendan’s approach is both authentic and approachable, capturing the essence of Asian street markets in every bite. His latest cookbook, “This is a Book About Street Food,” invites readers on a delicious journey through Asia’s bustling markets, and now he’s bringing that culinary adventure directly to Melbourne’s diners. The star attractions of this collaboration are two irresistible bao offerings: the fiery Singapore Chilli Soft Shell Crab and the aromatic Salt and Pepper Mushroom. Each bao is a flavour-packed homage to the street food Brendan is celebrated for, deeply rooted in the comforting flavours of his heritage. These delicious creations are a nod to Brendan’s passion for street food, elevated with the signature flair of Hochi Mama’s kitchen. Thai Ho, founder of Hochi Mama, is thrilled about the partnership, stating, “Collaborating with Brendan has been an exciting journey, as our team at Hochi Mama shares his passion for redefining traditional flavours and creating unforgettable culinary experiences. Brendan’s dedication to his roots… Read More

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

Tags: Brendan Pang, Hochi Mama, melbourne food, melbourne restaurants

Amatrice Rooftop Restaurant open in Melbourne

AmatriceRooftop lr 175 Melbourne restaurant dining room

by James Banham

Posted: 21/10/2024

Perched atop Cremorne’s tallest building, the much-anticipated Amatrice Rooftop Restaurant is now open, ready to welcome locals and Melburnians alike. Offering spectacular views of the city skyline, this modern-Italian dining destination promises a unique experience in the heart of Cremorne. Situated on the rooftop of Cubitt Place at 16 Stephenson Street, Amatrice Rooftop Restaurant is the crowning jewel following its sister venue, Caffé Amatrice, which opened on the ground floor in September. Behind this Italian venture are hospitality veterans Dave Parker, along with Kelly and Alex Brawn, who have drawn inspiration from the picturesque Italian village of Amatrice. “We’re excited to be bringing an offering to Cremorne that’s wanted and needed. Melbourne is known for its rooftop bars, but Amatrice Rooftop Restaurant will be doing things a little differently,” says co-owner Alex Brawn. “First and foremost – we’re a restaurant, the dining offer is the hero and in equal merit to the view, it’s central to the venue experience.” Accessed via a stylish lift lobby designed by Splinter Society Architecture, the venue reaches the tenth floor where award-winning interior designer Brahman Perera has crafted an elegant setting. The design nods to the chic allure of globally recognised venues like the Soho House rooftops, featuring imported red marble tables, red velvet banquette seating, and aqua subway tiles. Sculptural lighting and overhanging pendant shades from Arturo Alvarez add layers of sophistication, while olive trees and a retractable glass roof enhance the indoor-outdoor ambience. Leading the kitchen is Head Chef Vincenzo Di Giovanniello, whose Italian heritage shines through… Read More

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

Tags: Amatrice, melbourne italian, melbourne restaurants

Middle Eastern ‘ARAB’iata’ at Shane Delia’s Windsor restaurant

by James Banham

Posted: 05/10/2024

Melbourne’s culinary scene is about to get even more exciting with the launch of ‘ARAB’iata’, a vibrant pasta event hosted at Shane Delia’s laid-back Windsor eatery. Over eight tantalising weeks starting Monday, September 16th, a lineup of eight top chefs will each present their unique take on pasta, infusing it with bold spices and flavours inspired by Middle Eastern cuisine. Each week, a different chef will step into the spotlight, crafting a distinct pasta dish that reflects their culinary style. The roster boasts celebrated names from some of Melbourne’s most beloved venues, including Longrain, Rumi, and Ides. Here’s a sneak peek at the culinary maestros who will be bringing their pasta prowess to the table: Delia’s creation is an homage to the Middle East’s rich and diverse flavours, setting the stage for a festival of taste that promises to transform Melbourne’s weekday pasta specials. “Middle Eastern cuisine is so diverse and adaptable, and ‘ARAB’iata at Maha East will put a spotlight on that through some incredibly talented Melbourne chefs. At $15, we just want to keep people excited about dining out,” Shane Delia enthuses. The ‘ARAB’iata experience will run from Monday to Wednesday, starting at 5 PM for one-hour sittings, with the final plates served on Wednesday, November 6th. Bookings can be made online, but walk-ins are also welcome. For pasta lovers and food enthusiasts, this is an unmissable opportunity to savor the fusion of Italian and Middle Eastern flavours at an unbeatable price. Follow @mahaeast on social media for weekly updates and to catch… Read More

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

Tags: Arabiata, melbourne restaurants, Middle Eastern Melbourne

Tombo Den Japanese opens in Melbourne this September

by James Banham

Posted: 03/09/2024

Melbourne’s dining scene is about to get a vibrant new addition with the opening of Tombo Den, the latest venture by renowned restaurateur Chris Lucas. Set to open on Saturday, September 7th, at 100 Chapel Street, Windsor, Tombo Den promises to transport diners straight to the bustling streets of Tokyo with its reinterpretation of the city’s late-night dining culture, infused with a touch of Melbourne flair. Tombo Den captures the essence of Tokyo’s izakayas—those lively, labyrinth-like pubs known for their relaxed atmosphere and adventurous eats. Chris Lucas, whose passion for Japanese cuisine and culture was sparked during his time living in Tokyo in the 90s, is excited to bring this experience to Windsor. “I can’t wait to bring a slice of this to the area,” Lucas shares, reminiscing about his days savoring street food in downtown Tokyo. Leading the culinary charge is celebrated chef Dan Chan, whose impressive resume includes stints at the Michelin-starred Yardbird in Hong Kong and Melbourne’s own Supernormal. Alongside Lucas, Chan has crafted a menu that pays homage to Tokyo’s dining culture while incorporating Melbourne’s sensibilities. The sushi offerings are a standout, with Kisumé Sushi Masters Toaki Kyo and Carlos Lopez bringing their expertise to a menu that honors sushi’s beginnings as a street food staple. Diners can enjoy a rotating selection of sashimi and nigiri, including deluxe options like scallop and wagyu, served from a central counter. The à la carte menu is a testament to the creativity and skill behind Tombo Den. Small Plates feature tempting bites like Sapporo… Read More

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

Tags: japanese, melbourne restaurants, Tombo, Tombo Den

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

by James Banham

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

Celebrate the cooler months at Baker Bleu

by THE F

Updated: 26/07/2024

Baker Bleu is embracing the chill of the cooler months by introducing a delightful range of seasonal baked goods that promise to warm hearts and tickle taste buds. The star attractions include a reimagined Portuguese custard tart and an exquisitely crafted cinnamon scroll, both expertly baked by Baker Bleu’s dedicated team. With their signature laminated sourdough pastry enveloping a sumptuous custard mixture, the custard tarts have become an instant hit, flying off the shelves since they debuted as a winter bestseller. “Sourdough is our signature and so we wanted to bring our own spin on the classic custard tart. The result is something between the popular Portuguese pastel de nata and Chinese egg tart with a Baker Bleu touch,” comments baker and owner Mike Russell. The overwhelming demand saw these tarts quickly garnering a loyal following, a testament to their irresistible appeal. Complementing the custard tarts is the iconic cinnamon scroll, executed to perfection by Baker Bleu’s talented pastry chefs from Melbourne and Sydney. Made with Wholegrain Milling flour sourced from New South Wales, their proven yeasted dough is layered generously with Copper Tree Farms butter and cinnamon sugar, and finished with a luscious sour cream and cinnamon icing. This delightful treat pairs beautifully with a weekend coffee or a cozy catch-up with friends over baked goodies. “We’re excited for these products to land with our customers, new and returning, as they really showcase the talent and creativity of our pastry chefs and are the perfect comforting pick-me-up on these colder days,” adds Mike Russell…. Read More

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

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Mister Bianco’s Annual Truffle Dinner

Jamies Italian restaurant Sydney truffles

by James Banham

Posted: 09/07/2024

Mister Bianco is excited to announce its much-anticipated annual truffle dinner, which will be held for the first time at the new Cotham Road location on Tuesday, 13th August. Renowned for crafting an exquisite menu each year, owner and chef Joe Vargetto will once again impress diners with dishes that highlight premium local Buxton black truffles. This truly unique dining experience promises to be a culinary delight, featuring a welcome cocktail followed by a carefully curated four-course degustation menu. Each course will be perfectly paired with wines selected by Patrick Walsh from CellarHand to enhance the flavors of the delectable truffle-infused creations. Guests attending Mister Bianco’s Truffle Dinner will not only indulge in a luxurious meal but also have the chance to win a new MINI for a weekend, thanks to MINI Doncaster. This added incentive makes for an even more special and exciting evening. Truffle Dinner Menu Tuesday, 13th August, 6.30 pm – $149 per person Bookings To secure your spot at this extraordinary event, please make a reservation via the Mister Bianco website. This exclusive dinner is sure to sell out quickly, so be sure to book early and experience an unforgettable evening of truffle-infused gastronomy.

Category: LIFESTYLE, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, FOOD & DRINK, ITALIAN FOOD

Tags: melbourne restaurants, mister bianco, truffle, truffle melbourne

Rombe is Melbourne’s new culinary space at Burwood Brickworks

by James Banham

Posted: 04/04/2024

Wednesday, 3rd April 2024 marks a significant milestone for Burwood Brickworks Shopping Centre as it opens its doors to Rombe, an enchanting all-day dining and event space that promises an unparalleled modern-Australian culinary experience. Nestled amidst the verdant rooftop garden, only 14km from the heart of Melbourne, Rombe stands as a testament to the centre’s vision of blending community with unique dining experiences. This rustic rooftop haven is specifically designed to foster connections and memorable dining encounters against the backdrop of Burwood Brickworks’ bustling environment. Rombe’s introduction to the centre is part of a broader initiative by Burwood Brickworks to redefine the traditional shopping centre experience. “Our goal has always been to create a space that is more than just a destination for shopping but a vibrant community hub where individuals can gather, dine, and celebrate,” articulates Robert Breda, the Centre Manager. Rombe’s existence on the rooftop is a bold step towards fulfilling this vision, offering locals and visitors a remarkable dining setting surrounded by a community garden. The design of Rombe exudes a romantic charm, featuring a light-filled dining room with windowed vistas offering panoramic views of the rooftop garden and the Dandenong Ranges. With both indoor and alfresco dining options, Rombe caters to various dining experiences, from serene morning breakfasts to lively weekend brunches. The menu, curated by Head Chef Jerry Yi, a veteran with experience at Shihuishi and Red Spice Road, showcases the richness of locally sourced, seasonal produce, married with inventive Australian cooking. Whether it’s the ricotta hotcakes for breakfast, yellow… Read More

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

Tags: Burwood restaurants, melbourne restaurants, Rombe

Tag: melbourne restaurants