Gluttony: The Play Returns to The Windsor for an Unforgettable Second Season
Gluttony The Play has returned to Melbourne for a second season, and it’s already making waves. Set in the historic grandeur of The Windsor Hotel, this immersive theatre experience blends the finest elements of gourmet dining with gripping, intimate drama. After a sold-out debut during the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival 2024, Gluttony is back for a limited time, giving diners and theatre lovers another chance to witness this one-of-a-kind event.
What makes Gluttony The Play so special? Imagine sitting down for an exquisite three-course meal, paired with local wines, only to realise that you’re not just eating dinner—you’re part of the scene. The performance unfolds all around you, as you sit mere inches from the actors, eavesdropping on their secrets and emotions. This is immersive dining and theatre taken to another level, making for an experience you’ll remember long after the final course.
The Drama of Friendship and Longing, Served with a Side of Gourmet Cuisine
The story at the heart of Gluttony is one of friendship, love, betrayal, and longing. Set in the fictional restaurant Gourmandise, a group of old friends reunites for a dinner party after many years apart. What begins as a seemingly joyful reunion quickly spirals into a complex web of lost opportunities, broken promises, and questions of trust. Are they truly friends, or just playing their parts for the sake of appearances?
As the drama unfolds, diners are treated to an exceptional menu crafted by award-winning chef Rob Kabboord. The dishes aren’t just something to eat—they are woven into the story itself, creating a seamless blend of flavours and emotions. Each course, paired with carefully selected wines, mirrors the unfolding tension of the plot, drawing the audience deeper into the experience.
A Theatrical Dining Experience Like No Other
One of the highlights of Gluttony The Play is the intimate nature of the performance. Audience members sit around and near the main dining table where the action takes place, creating the feeling of being inside the story rather than watching from afar. As Natasha Stellard, one of the immersive diners, put it:
“It was such a unique experience having the theatre occur all around us. Sitting amongst the actors at the large dining table made me feel like I was eavesdropping on the group’s dinner party. The wine-paired 3 course meal was woven into the show while we ate with the dinner party. The script was hilarious, yet emotional, and the cast kept us captivated and laughing throughout.”
It’s this unique positioning that elevates Gluttony beyond a traditional play or dining experience. You’re not just an observer; you become part of the evening, soaking up every line of dialogue and every burst of laughter as if you were a guest at this emotionally charged dinner party.
The Perfect Pairing of Atmosphere and Performance at The Windsor
Set against the luxurious backdrop of The Windsor Hotel, Gluttony takes full advantage of its location. The historic dining room, with its grandeur and elegance, is the perfect stage for this tale of indulgence and intrigue. There’s a rich contrast between the opulence of the setting and the raw, often humorous emotions of the characters. The hotel’s high-end hospitality pairs perfectly with the play’s themes of gluttony, friendship, and excess, making for a memorable night out in Melbourne.
The play’s brilliance doesn’t just come from its script, though. The cast delivers pitch-perfect performances, each actor bringing depth and personality to their role. They move seamlessly between moments of humour and tension, ensuring that the audience remains engaged from start to finish. Whether it’s a quiet, reflective conversation or a heated argument, every emotion feels real, and you can’t help but be drawn into their world.
“As a dinner guest I feel I need to listen to each one’s case without passing judgement. But I do! As the story evolves my feelings change. Oh! Meanwhile, I am being served extraordinary food. I want to discuss the food with Laurence but we need to keep up with the razor sharp discussion between the characters, which has some cracking local references. As for the rest of the dinner, we are both inside and outside the lives of this deeply personal interaction with characters with whom at some stage of my life I can relate. It becomes visceral. Oh, God, I have had this feeling. I’ve been there. In the meantime the story keeps evolving and we learn about how to make food with love and meaning at the same time!!” Emma Lee & husband Laurence Harewood
Why You Shouldn’t Miss Gluttony The Play
If you’re looking for a theatre experience that’s truly unique, Gluttony The Play is a must-see. It’s a perfect blend of food, wine, and drama, creating an atmosphere that’s immersive and emotionally charged. Whether you choose the full dining experience with a three-course meal or opt for the lighter In the Round option with snacks, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable evening.
Gluttony isn’t just about watching a performance—it’s about being part of one. You’ll leave feeling like you’ve not only witnessed great theatre but shared a moment with the characters themselves. It’s an experience that goes beyond the stage and into your senses, one that lingers with you long after you leave the table.
This second season at The Windsor is sure to sell out quickly, so don’t wait to book your tickets.
Ready to indulge in a night of fine dining and theatre?
Book your tickets for Gluttony The Play now: Gluttony The Play – Ticket Info
Disclaimer: Roslyn Foo and Natasha Stellard attended the opening show of Glutton The Play Season 2 at The Windsor Hotel Melbourne as invited guests. The review reflects our independent opinions. [...]Read more...
Puccini Festival Opens with a Spellbinding La Bohème Melbourne Opera
On a crisp Sunday afternoon, Puccini Festival opened with a heart-wrenching and beautifully staged performance of La Bohème Melbourne Opera at the Athenaeum Theatre, paying tribute to Giacomo Puccini’s legacy. As part of the centennial celebration of the composer’s death, this production immerses the audience in the raw and tragic romance between two young lovers, and more broadly, the trials of artists living on the fringes of society.
A Chorus of Melancholy and Hope
The opera begins in the chilly attic shared by four friends—Rodolfo, a poet; Marcello, a painter; Colline, a philosopher; and Schaunard, a musician. The palpable camaraderie among these young, penniless artists injects warmth into an otherwise bleak setting. Boyd Owen’s portrayal of Rodolfo is nothing short of mesmerizing, capturing both the buoyant spirit of youthful ambition and the deep sorrow that inevitably follows. Christopher Tonkin (Marcello), Stephen Smith (Schaunard), and Darcy Carroll (Colline) provide impeccable support, each character adding texture to the opera’s themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the bittersweet reality of bohemian life.
The meeting of Rodolfo and Mimì, portrayed by Elena Xanthoudakis, is perhaps the most tender moment in the entire production. Their love blossoms quickly, with Mimì’s fragility slowly becoming apparent as the opera unfolds. Xanthoudakis’ soprano voice is delicate yet powerful, and the chemistry between her and Owen makes their scenes together particularly moving. It is in these moments that Puccini’s iconic arias—melodic and expressive—envelop the audience, reminding us why La Bohème remains one of the most beloved operas in the world.
La Bohème Melbourne Opera Iconic Performances
Helena Dix shines as the flirtatious and fiery Musetta, stealing the spotlight in Act II with her captivating “Quando me’n vo'” aria. Dix’s commanding stage presence and voice light up the stage, particularly during the vibrant café scene in Paris. The contrast between this act’s bustling energy and the quieter, more introspective moments of the opera serves to heighten the emotional stakes, culminating in an unforgettable, emotionally charged finale.
The third act moves the action to a snowy outdoor scene where the emotional intensity deepens as Mimì’s illness worsens, and her relationship with Rodolfo unravels. The staging here, under the expert direction of Gary Abrahams, creates an atmosphere of cold desperation, mirroring the characters’ inner turmoil. The production’s final act brings the audience back to the attic, where Mimì’s tragic demise is met with overwhelming grief from her companions. Owen’s Rodolfo is utterly heartbreaking as he cradles her lifeless body, his anguish accentuated by Puccini’s evocative score.
Puccini’s Music: The Soul of the Opera
What makes this production of La Bohème particularly compelling is the way Puccini’s music intertwines with the narrative, amplifying each character’s emotional arc. Conducted by Raymond Lawrence and Greg Hocking AM, the orchestra delivers a rich and nuanced performance, ensuring that every note of Puccini’s score resonates deeply with the audience. From the lively, boisterous scenes of Act II to the haunting, tear-jerking finale, the music becomes the emotional backbone of the story, its ebb and flow seamlessly guiding the audience through the highs and lows of the characters’ lives.
Despite the opera being sung entirely in Italian, the well-executed English subtitles ensured the audience remained connected to the narrative. However, the exceptional acting and vocal performances were so powerful that even without translations, the emotions on stage were universally understood.
A Tribute to Puccini’s Legacy
As the first installment of Melbourne Opera’s Puccini Festival, La Bohème sets an incredibly high bar. The production’s ability to balance moments of humour and joy with heart-wrenching tragedy speaks to the timelessness of Puccini’s work. It’s a reminder of the indelible impact his compositions have had on opera lovers around the world. Under the skilled direction of Abrahams and the powerful vocals of Xanthoudakis, Dix, and Owen, this La Bohème feels as fresh and relevant today as it did over a century ago.
Melbourne Opera’s decision to commemorate Puccini’s centenary with such a moving production is a testament to the company’s dedication to both artistic excellence and the preservation of operatic tradition. With upcoming performances of La Bohème and a Puccini Gala highlighting selections from Madama Butterfly, Tosca, Turandot, and more, the Puccini Festival promises to be a remarkable celebration of one of opera’s greatest composers.
La Bohème Melbourne Opera Is A Must-See Event
Whether you’re a long-time fan of Puccini or new to the world of opera, La Bohème Melbourne Opera at the Athenaeum Theatre is a production not to be missed. Its ability to make audiences laugh, cry, and reflect on life’s fleeting moments serves as a great reminder of the power of live theatre. As La Bohème continues its run, it promises to leave a lasting imprint on Melbourne’s cultural landscape, bringing joy and sorrow in equal measure to all who experience it.
Get tickets here: www.melbourneopera.com
Read this review of Maria Stuarda, another excellent production by Melbourne Opera [...]Read more...
European Elegance Dining at Saros Bar & Dining in Moonee Ponds
Tucked away within The Sebel Melbourne hotel apartment in Moonee Ponds, Saros Bar & Dining is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This stylish establishment offers a European-inspired culinary experience, currently helmed by the talented head chef, Nestor Tablada. With an atmosphere that seamlessly blends sophistication with understated luxury, Saros Bar & Dining is the perfect destination for those who appreciate the finer things in life without the need for extravagance.
A Hidden Gem in Moonee Ponds
From the moment you step into Saros Bar & Dining, you’re enveloped in an ambience that exudes European elegance. The restaurant’s New York-style booths provide a sense of privacy and comfort, while the stunning marble bar serves as a focal point, beckoning guests to relax with a signature cocktail in hand. Whether you’re planning a romantic date night, a celebratory dinner, or a refined gathering with friends and family, Saros Bar & Dining offers an inviting space that caters to every occasion.
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Craft Cocktails: An Art Form at Saros
No visit to Saros Bar & Dining is complete without experiencing the craftsmanship of Nikki, the restaurant’s resident mixologist. Nikki’s expertise in creating bespoke cocktails is nothing short of magical. With an intuitive understanding of flavor profiles and a keen sense of balance, she crafts drinks that are as personal as they are delicious. Whether your palate leans towards bold and complex flavors or something lighter and more refreshing, Nikki’s cocktail creations are sure to delight and surprise.
A Culinary Journey Through Europe
The menu at Saros Bar & Dining is a true celebration of European flavors, with each dish meticulously prepared to showcase the finest ingredients and culinary techniques. Our evening began with the Bluefin Tuna Tartare, a dish that is as visually stunning as it is delectable. The delicate texture and vibrant freshness of the tuna, paired with Chef Nestor’s impeccable presentation, set the tone for an unforgettable dining experience.
Next came the Capesante (scallops), a dish that quickly became a table favorite. Cooked to perfection, these tender morsels were bathed in a buttery richness that enveloped the taste buds with each bite, leaving us yearning for more.
While the mains were certainly enjoyable, it was the desserts that truly stole the show. We ended our meal with the Paris Brest and Louis XV, two desserts that epitomize elegance and indulgence. The Paris Brest, with its light choux pastry and praline cream, was a delightful contrast to the rich, chocolatey decadence of the Louis XV. Unable to choose a favorite, we recommend ordering both for a sweet conclusion to your dining experience at Saros.
Why Saros Bar & Dining Should Be Your Next Culinary Destination
Saros Bar & Dining is more than just a restaurant; it’s a destination where exceptional food, impeccable service, and a sophisticated atmosphere come together to create a dining experience that lingers long after the meal is over. Whether you’re marking a special occasion or simply seeking a refined spot to unwind after a busy day, this Moonee Ponds treasure promises to deliver on all fronts. [...]Read more...
“Macbeth: An Undoing” Delivers a Fresh Perspective at Malthouse Theatre
The opening night of “Macbeth: An Undoing” at Malthouse Theatre was a remarkable 2.5-hour performance that left the audience in awe. Directed by the visionary Matthew Lutton and adapted by the talented Zinnie Harris, this production offers a unique reimagining of Shakespeare’s classic play. By viewing the story through Lady Macbeth’s eyes, the performance delivers an epic tale of ambition, lust, and power that resonates with modern audiences.
Bojana Novakovic and Johnny Carr Captivate in Lead Roles
Bojana Novakovic and Johnny Carr captivate as Lady Macbeth and Macbeth, respectively, bringing this 11th-century story to life with their powerful performances. Their on-stage chemistry and intense portrayal of the characters’ complex relationship create a riveting experience for the audience. The actors’ commitment to their roles and their ability to convey the emotional depth of their characters are commendable, making the performance unforgettable.
Stunning Sets and Costumes Enhance the Visual Appeal
The visual elements of “Macbeth: An Undoing” are nothing short of breathtaking. The stunning sets and costumes transport the audience to a world steeped in superstition and power struggles. The meticulous attention to detail in the design enhances the narrative, adding depth and texture to the already rich story. The combination of historical authenticity and creative interpretation in the visual presentation makes the production visually striking.
Lady Macbeth’s Vision for Change and Renewal
Zinnie Harris’s adaptation of Shakespeare’s classic shifts the focus to Lady Macbeth’s vision for change and renewal. This fresh perspective allows for a deeper understanding of her motivations and her complex relationship with power. The play explores themes of manipulation and the fight for control in a world governed by superstition. Lady Macbeth’s journey is both haunting and exhilarating, making the narrative more engaging for the audience.
Accessible Language with a Touch of Modern-Day Flair
While Shakespeare enthusiasts will appreciate the faithful use of language, “Macbeth: An Undoing” remains accessible to all audiences. The adaptation includes a touch of cheeky Aussie humor and contemporary references, ensuring that both seasoned Shakespeare fans and newcomers can enjoy the performance. This balance between classic and modern elements makes the play appealing to a diverse audience.
Why “Macbeth: An Undoing” is a Must-See Production
“Macbeth: An Undoing” is a must-see production running until 28 July at the Malthouse Theatre. The combination of powerful performances, stunning visuals, and a fresh perspective on a classic tale makes this a standout show in Melbourne’s theatre scene.
Special thanks to TS Publicity for the invitation. Don’t miss your chance to experience this spellbinding reimagining of Shakespeare’s masterpiece. Book your tickets now to witness “Macbeth: An Undoing” at Malthouse Theatre.
For further reading, check out the Vulture review. [...]Read more...
Melbourne’s vibrant arts scene has once again proven its brilliance with the opening night of Shimmery Burlesque. This dazzling production, held at the iconic Athenaeum Theatre, captivated the audience with its blend of glamour, storytelling, and impeccable performances.
The Magic of Shimmery Burlesque
Shimmery Burlesque is more than just a show; it’s a testament to the power of creativity and familial bonds. The production is the brainchild of Kerrie Schultz, known on stage as Lady Shimmery, and her daughter, Holly Mouat, who directed this enchanting spectacle. Their journey to bring Shimmery Burlesque to life is nothing short of inspiring. Kerrie’s passion for the art form, combined with Holly’s directorial vision, has resulted in a production that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.
The show features a mesmerizing array of performances that showcase the rich history and evolution of burlesque. From classic routines dripping in old-world glamour to modern, edgy interpretations that push boundaries, Shimmery Burlesque offers something for everyone. The choreography is sharp, the costumes are lavish, and the storytelling is poignant, all coming together to create an unforgettable experience. Each act is meticulously crafted to transport the audience to a world of fantasy and allure, making it easy to lose oneself in the magic of the performance.
A Heartfelt True Story
What sets Shimmery Burlesque apart is the real-life story behind its creation. Kerrie Schultz, an accomplished burlesque performer, has been a beacon of inspiration in the industry. Her daughter, Holly Mouat, grew up immersed in this world of glitter and feathers, and together they have created a show that honors the legacy of burlesque while adding their unique touch. Their collaboration is a beautiful example of how passion and family can come together to create something truly special.
The mother-daughter duo’s commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of the production. Holly’s directorial prowess ensures that each scene flows seamlessly, while Kerrie’s stage presence adds a touch of authenticity that only a seasoned performer can bring. The result is a show that not only entertains but also tugs at the heartstrings, leaving the audience with a sense of awe and admiration.
The Rich History of Burlesque
To fully appreciate Shimmery Burlesque, it’s worth taking a moment to explore the rich history of burlesque itself. Originating in the 17th century, burlesque began as a form of literary and theatrical parody. It evolved over the centuries, particularly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when it became synonymous with the cabaret and variety shows that featured risqué humor, striptease, and elaborate performances.
Burlesque experienced a revival in the 1990s, known as neo-burlesque, which celebrates the art form’s history while incorporating contemporary influences. This resurgence has kept burlesque relevant and exciting, attracting new generations of performers and audiences alike. Shimmery Burlesque is a shining example of how this timeless art form continues to evolve and captivate audiences today.
Get Your Tickets for Shimmery Burlesque, Touring Australia
Given the popularity and the high demand for such spectacular shows, it’s no surprise that tickets for Shimmery Burlesque was a quick sell out in Melbourne! The seamless blend of storytelling, performance, and visual artistry makes it a standout event that you won’t want to miss.
Shimmery Burlesque will be touring other cities across Australia, check out their upcoming shows near you.
Experience the Best of Melbourne’s Theatre Scene
The team behind Shimmery Burlesque deserves immense praise for their dedication and creativity. From the performers to the backstage crew, everyone’s hard work shines through in this remarkable production. Whether you’re a longtime fan of burlesque or new to the genre, Shimmery Burlesque offers an enchanting night of entertainment that will leave you spellbound.
Shimmery Burlesque stands out as a must-see event that beautifully encapsulates the essence of burlesque while weaving in a heartfelt true story. Thank you Helen Reizer & Michael J Wilkie for having Glamorazzi at the opening night. [...]Read more...
The world of immersive theatre is a realm where ordinary boundaries blur, and reality seamlessly merges with fantasy. Previously, we shared our mesmerizing journey through Love Lust Lost, an experience that left us in awe. We’re thrilled to return to this enigmatic world, where the adventure and mysteries continue.
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Immerse Yourself in Love Lust Lost’s Extended Season
When the enchantment of Love Lust Lost beckoned us once more, we couldn’t resist its allure. This extended season promises new discoveries, new mysteries, and an opportunity to dive deeper into an extraordinary world where each visit unveils a fresh adventure.
Exploring the Uncharted Depths of the E.V. Nautilus
Returning to the E.V. Nautilus was like revisiting an old friend, yet filled with the anticipation of new encounters. We ventured into uncharted depths, discovering fresh rooms, interacting with intriguing characters, and hearing different tales whispered in the dimly lit corners.
Applauding Kirsten Siddle and the Love Lust Lost Team
Behind the scenes, Kirsten Siddle and the Love Lust Lost team deserve our applause for extending the season. Their creative brilliance has allowed us to continue immersing ourselves in this mesmerizing world.
Exclusive Fridays in November: Between The Devil & The Deep Lock-In Cabaret Party
November brings an exclusive series of ‘Between The Devil & The Deep Lock-In Cabaret Party’ events. A world of enchantment awaits, promising an experience like no other. But this experience is super exclusive, happening only on 3rd, 10th & 17th November, so get your tickets now before they are gone!
Love Lust Lost is a captivating journey that continues to unfold, promising surprises and immersive experiences that you won’t find elsewhere. We encourage you to book your tickets and embark on this extraordinary adventure, where the line between reality and fantasy is delightfully blurred. It’s an unforgettable adventure that promises to transport you to an extraordinary world of wonder and excitement.
Read about our first experience of Love, Lust, Lost (debut season) here.
https://lovelustlost.com/
Location: The Austral, an abandoned heritage theatre in Collingwood. [...]Read more...
When it comes to live theatre experiences, Melbourne has never disappointed me, and MATADOR by Bass Fam Creative is the epitome of captivating performances that blend passion, sensuality, and artistry. Having attended both MATADOR sabor de amor and MATADOR la experiencia, I can’t help but sing praises for this outstanding production. In this article, we’ll delve into the allure of MATADOR, showcasing how it brilliantly celebrates love and passion while immersing audiences in a world of emotions.
Experience 1: MATADOR sabor de amor: A Breathtaking Celebration of Love at Melbourne Fringe
The opening night of MATADOR sabor de amor was a sensory delight that had the entire audience, including myself, on their feet. This 60-minute journey through the facets of love is a testament to the artistry and dedication of the talented team behind it. From the breathtaking costumes to the soul-stirring original music, everything in this award-winning production is designed to immerse you in the myriad faces of love.
The fusion of dance, circus, and burlesque in MATADOR is nothing short of spectacular. The performances were heart-pounding, leaving an indelible mark on everyone in attendance. The show’s ability to explore love and acceptance so deeply is truly praiseworthy.
Experience 2: MATADOR la experiencia: A Sensual Fusion of Love and Passion
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My previous experience with MATADOR la experiencia was equally enthralling. This immersive performance takes you on a journey of forbidden love, carnal desires, and passion. It’s a fiery fusion of burlesque, dance, and jaw-dropping circus acts that keep you on the edge of your seat throughout. The combination of high-energy dance, contemporary ballet, steamy Latin numbers, and saucy burlesque acts showcases the versatility of this talented ensemble.
More than just a tantalizing spectacle, MATADOR delves into deeper themes of self-discovery, identity, and the complexities of love. It portrays the trials and tribulations of love, from the agony of unrequited love to the repercussions of infidelity. This show celebrates love, friendship, and the unbreakable bonds that connect us all.
MATADOR: A Fusion of Love, Art, and Spectacle
Both MATADOR sabor de amor and MATADOR la experiencia offer equally enthralling experiences. These shows are a masterful blend of sensuality, artistry, and passion. From the immersive performances to the delicious Spanish street food and live music that accompanies them, MATADOR leaves a lasting impression on all who attend.
Get Your MATADOR Tickets at Melbourne Fringe 2023
To be a part of this mesmerizing celebration of love and passion, make sure to catch MATADOR at The Vault, Festival Park, Victoria Markets until the 29th of October. Secure your tickets and embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of love, sensuality, and art. Don’t miss out on this spectacular fusion of dance, circus, and burlesque that promises to leave you breathless.
Book your tickets now and experience the magic for yourself at Melbourne Fringe 2023. [...]Read more...
My Awesome Cafe is an extraordinary dining establishment tucked away in the lively streets of Telok Ayer, Singapore. Formerly known as the Chung Hwa Free Clinic, this historical shophouse has been meticulously transformed into a captivating venue that seamlessly blends the essence of the past with the excitement of the present. In this feature, we share the intriguing narrative behind My Awesome Cafe, its historical resonance, and the beguiling JING Herbal Wine that sets it apart.
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The Historic Transformation: A Portal to Yesteryears
My Awesome Cafe, situated at 202 Telok Ayer Street, stands as an architectural tribute to Singapore’s rich history. Retaining the soul of the Chung Hwa Free Clinic, which served as a healthcare haven for generations, this shophouse echoes with echoes of bygone eras. Its painstakingly restored wooden beams, intricate mosaic tiles, and timeless ambiance offer a unique glimpse into Singapore’s heritage.
My Awesome Cafe’s Beginnings: A Visionary’s Ode
Behind the remarkable metamorphosis of this historical site lies the vision of Franck Hardy, an enterprising entrepreneur with a profound respect for Singapore’s cultural legacy. His unwavering commitment to preserving the shophouse’s authentic features while infusing it with contemporary culinary excellence has made My Awesome Cafe a cherished establishment for both locals and visitors.
Sip on History: JING Herbal Wine
At the heart of My Awesome Cafe’s allure is the JING Herbal Wine—a beverage rooted in China’s herbal traditions. Crafted from an assortment of carefully selected herbs, roots, and botanicals, this closely guarded recipe, passed down through generations, results in a libation that encapsulates the very essence of traditional Chinese medicine.
Why should you venture into the world of JING Herbal Wine? This unique concoction offers more than just a delightful taste; it’s an immersive experience for your palate, potentially enriched with wellness benefits. The herbal blend is believed to promote overall well-being, including enhanced digestion and stress alleviation. When enjoyed in moderation, it allows you to savour its distinct flavour while potentially enhancing your state of wellness.
A Personal Encounter: Embracing the Herbal Adventure
My introduction to My Awesome Cafe was a spontaneous one, fuelled by the intrigue kindled by their enticing menu—a herbal wine! Given the historical lineage of this location as a clinic, it felt fitting to explore this offering, especially as someone with a deep-rooted appreciation for herbal beverages.
The Buzz Among Patrons: A Snapshot of Our Awesome Cafe
During our brief visit, the cafe/bar buzzed with a diverse of patrons—locals, expatriates, and possibly a sprinkling of tourists. The atmosphere was vibrant yet harmonious, with some patrons engrossed in work on their laptops, while others appeared to be relishing moments with colleagues. The allure of the outdoor seating area was undeniable, creating an inviting atmosphere infused with a sense of calm and relaxed vibes.
What People Are Saying: The Buzz on My Awesome Cafe
A treasure trove of glowing reviews awaits on Google, extolling My Awesome Cafe’s harmonious blend of historical reverence and modernity, its warm and inviting ambiance. To delve deeper into the community’s impressions, a quick visit to Google Reviews is highly recommended.
How to Get There and Connect:
My Awesome Cafe’s strategic location at 202 Telok Ayer Street ensures hassle-free accessibility via public transportation. To plan your visit and explore their delectable menu offerings, simply visit their official website.
Stay updated with their latest culinary delights and promotions by following them on Instagram @myawesomecafe. Whether you’re an aficionado of history, a gastronomic explorer, or someone in search of a quintessential Singaporean experience, My Awesome Cafe promises an indelible memory that effortlessly interweaves the past and present. [...]Read more...
In the bustling heart of Melbourne’s Collingwood neighborhood, an enigmatic spectacle is currently captivating the city’s theater enthusiasts and mystery seekers. Love Lust Lost, the latest immersive production by Broad Encounters, has breathed new life into the iconic 1920s Austral Theatre. In this article, we’ll embark on a journey to explore this sensory adventure, delve into the rich history of The Austral Theatre, and uncover why Love Lust Lost has become a must-see in Melbourne’s vibrant performing arts scene.
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Melbourne Theatre Transformed
Imagine a theatrical experience that defies convention and immerses you in a world of mystery, sensory exploration, and artistic wonder. This is precisely what “Love Lust Lost Immersive Theatre” offers to Melbourne’s discerning audience. From its inception on September 8, 2023, this innovative production has been redefining the city’s performing arts landscape.
The Austral Theatre: A Historical Gem
At the heart of this extraordinary experience lies The Austral Theatre, a historic gem that first opened its doors in 1921. Originally a beloved picture house, dance hall, and theater, it has witnessed decades of entertainment, preserving the echoes of its storied past. Today, it emerges as a central character in the mesmerizing narrative of Love Lust Lost.
Sensory Overload
Love Lust Lost is not your typical night at the theater. This sensory masterpiece combines music, spoken word, dance, circus acts, soundscapes, and fragrances in ways that challenge the boundaries of traditional performance art. Audiences are transported across three expansive floors, spanning over 1900 square meters, making it the largest immersive theater show Melbourne has ever seen.
Exploring the Depths of Love and Lust
As you step aboard the E.V. Nautilus and descend into an underwater world, you’ll find yourself in a realm of endless wonder. Secret rooms, hidden bars, and enigmatic puzzles beckon, ensuring no two experiences are alike. This adults-only adventure draws inspiration from literary classics like “Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea” and “The Little Mermaid,” inviting you to delve into the depths of love and lust.
An Enigmatic Underworld
Love Lust Lost is an invitation to explore a seductive and decadent underworld where mysteries lurk, sacrifices are made, and secrets bloom in the darkness. The performance, which lasts 75-90 minutes, encourages you to follow your instincts, chart your own course, and revel in the unexpected.
Behind the Scenes
The brilliance behind this groundbreaking production is undeniable, with Kirsten Siddle and her team of visionaries at the helm. From stage direction to set design, soundscapes to lighting, every element is crafted with precision to immerse you in a world like no other.
Melbourne Life: Uncover the Mysteries of the Deep
If you’re in Melbourne and seeking an unforgettable adventure, Love Lust Lost Immersive Theatre is a must-do on your Melbourne Life checklist. This unique blend of mystery and artistry promises an experience that will leave you both enchanted and intrigued.
Love Lust Lost at The Austral Theatre is not merely a theatrical performance; it’s an immersive journey through the senses, history, and the mysteries of love and lust. If you’re looking for an extraordinary experience in Melbourne’s performing arts scene, this sensory adventure is the answer. Book your tickets, explore the depths of this enchanting underworld, and uncover the mysteries of Love Lust Lost Immersive Theatre. Melbourne’s cultural landscape has never been quite the same.
Book now, show ends 29th October 2023.
Disclaimer: Glamorazzi attended the opening night, thanks to Foxpression’s invitation. The above review is our honest feedback about the experience and there has been no further monetary compensation to our coverage on this website or across our social media. [...]Read more...
A Fusion Vegetarian Fine Dining Affair
Nestled atop Orchard Central, is a culinary gem that left us pleasantly surprised. This modern, indoor-outdoor rooftop restaurant specializes in adventurous vegetarian fine dining in the heart of Singapore city, embracing a European and Taiwanese dining trend that focuses on innovative natural fare crafted from fresh produce. The name “Joie,” pronounced as ‘joy,’ perfectly encapsulates the joyous culinary journey that awaits diners.
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Vegetarian Food Art
One cannot help but appreciate the delightful presentation of every dish at Joie. The culinary team’s dedication to creativity and the use of uncommon ingredients shine through in their six-course lunch and seven-course dinner offerings. The dishes, infused with Japanese-European sensibilities and flavours, challenge any preconceived notions about meatless cuisine with their refined and original creations.
Tranquil Rooftop Garden on Orchard Road
The restaurant’s setting, surrounded by Orchard Central’s tranquil rooftop garden, provides a respite from the bustling Orchard shopping district. The sweeping views of Somerset and Orchard Road add to the overall charm.
Upon entering, the luminous dining room, bathed in natural light, sets the stage for a sophisticated dining experience. The contemporary chic ambiance, with its bronze light fixtures and grey tiled floor, exudes an inviting atmosphere. Guests can choose to seat themselves on plush leather-quilted banquettes, luxurious velvet armchairs, or in one of the five private rooms that accommodate four to sixteen people, all without any additional cost.
The 5-course Vegetarian Fine Dinner
For our dinner, we opted for the 5-course menu, and each course was a culinary adventure in itself:
The Vegetarian Starter
A Chef’s Selection of Assorted Platter, was a delightful array refreshing flavours textures that set the tone for the evening.
The Vegetarian Side Dish
Featuring Baby Root Vegetable Garden, Gratinated Champignon, Bailing Mushroom on Paper Hot Pot, and Charcoal Coated Tempura Platter, was a playful medley of root vegetables and mushroom-centric dishes.
The Vegetarian Cold Dish
Vegetable Sashimi on Ice with Oyster-Leaf Shooter Glass, showcased creativity in presenting coconut, konjac, huai san (Chinese herb), and aloe vera as sashimi, paired with an intriguing oyster leaf tabasco shooter. And yes, the leaf tasted like a real oyster, we had this in Australia previously.
The Vegetarian Soups
We had the Infusion of Cepes and Truffle, Japanese Kombu Broth with Hand Carved Tofu, and Clear Tomato Soup with Garbanzo, all displayed a rich diversity of flavors, demonstrating the culinary team’s skill in crafting complex broths.
The Vegetarian Mains
Lime Tofu Emulsion (pan-seared homemade tofu with herb emulsion and spinach riso), Truffle Risotto with Japanese Croquette, and Grilled Summer Mushroom Steak on “Pu-Ye” Hot Stone (they used monkey head mushroom and served with truffle mash potato), continued to impress with their innovative use of ingredients and harmonious flavour combinations.
The Vegetarian Dessert
Gastronomic Chocolate and Red Wine Poach Pear with Lime Sorbet, was a fittingly indulgent conclusion to a remarkable meal.
Highly Recommended Vegetarian Fine Dining Experience in Singapore
While the culinary experience at Joie was nothing short of exceptional, it’s worth noting that the service, though competent, fell short of the high bar set by the cuisine. However, the overall experience was still memorable, and we wholeheartedly recommend Joie to anyone seeking a unique and delightful vegetarian dining experience. Note: Menu changes, seasonally. Check JOIE RESTARAUNT website for current menu and offerings. [...]Read more...
Helena Dix’s Breathtaking Performance
Maria Stuarda by Melbourne Opera is a sensational triumph that encapsulates the very essence of operatic excellence. The remarkable facets of this opera includes Helena Dix’s awe-inspiring portrayal of Maria Stuarda to the exceptional musicality and the company’s dedication to nurturing young talent.
Credit to Photographer Robin Halls
Credit to Photographer Robin Halls
Watching an opera entirely sung in Italian with English subtitles was a beautiful way to immerse in a different culture and era, a relatable experience of a time in my life when I used to watch Korean dramas by reading subtitles and totally enjoying it.
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Helena Dix’s Return: A Testament to Immense Talent
Helena Dix’s return from the Metropolitan Opera in New York to take on the role of Maria Stuarda is nothing short of excellent. Her performance serves as a testament to her immense talent and leaves audiences deeply captivated.
Diversity in the Cast: A Refreshing Commitment to Inclusivity
One standout factor of this production is the diversity in the cast. It shows how the commitment to inclusivity reflects Melbourne Opera’s dedication to showcasing the richness of talent from all backgrounds. As a Malaysian living in Melbourne, it was very special seeing fellow Malaysian Henry Choo shining on stage as the leading male cast Roberto, Earl of Leicester.
Henry Choo shared that he had known Helena Dix since they were 16, when they started their professional opera career. It’s incredible to witness their journey come full circle on this stage.
Credit to Photographer Nicole Cleary
Donizetti’s Tudor Trilogy: Brilliantly Brought to Life
Suzanne Chaundy’s direction of Donizetti’s Tudor Trilogy is a brilliant and inspired choice. Her craft highlights the exceptional musicality of Donizetti’s work but also breathes life into the complex dynamics of historical queens.
Eleanor Greenwood as Elizabeth I: A Riveting Performance
Eleanor Greenwood must be celebrated for her portrayal of Elizabeth I, she captivated the audience with her versatility and virtuosity. Her stellar performance captures the historical figure’s essence with incredible depth and emotion.
Credit to Photographer Robin Halls
Spectacular Musical Moments: Raymond Lawrence’s Artistic Direction
The music in Maria Stuarda is nothing short of spectacular, featuring virtuoso arias, duets, and a moving execution scene, these musical elements elevate the opera experience.
Raymond Lawrence’s direction of the Melbourne Opera Chorus and Orchestra, as a bel canto specialist, plays a pivotal role in enhancing the musical experience. His artistic direction takes the classical opera to new heights.
Nurturing Young Talent: Melbourne Opera’s Commitment
Despite receiving no government funding, Melbourne Opera’s commitment to nurturing young artists is commendable, playing a vital role in providing invaluable professional experience to emerging talents.
Experience Maria Stuarda at the Athenaeum Theatre, by Melbourne Opera
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience Maria Stuarda at the Athenaeum Theatre on September 9, 13, 15, and 17, 2023. Get your tickets to witness a production that exemplifies the captivating and inspiring power of opera, with Helena Dix’s performance as a tour de force.
Hurry, get your tickets today! [...]Read more...
Are you tired of the same old lunch options, craving something extraordinary to tantalize your taste buds? Look no further than Hectors Deli. We finally made our way there after years of seeing raving reviews from Melburnians. Join us as we recount our delightful experience at this haven for food enthusiasts.
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Crafting Sandwich Wonders at LUNCHTIME
Lunchtime beckoned, and our cravings led us to @hectors_deli. As we walked in, the rustic charm of the place immediately caught our attention. Nestled in the heart of South Melbourne, this delightful deli emanates an inviting aura that sets the tone for a memorable dining experience.
One pleasant surprise was the absence of the usually snaking queues that can deter us from indulging in our cravings on weekends. It was a weekday escape, and we found ourselves blessed with swift service and a serene ambiance.
Sandos or Toasties?
As we settled into our seats, we were presented with a tantalizing conundrum – what exactly is the distinction between ‘sandos’ and ‘toasties’? The friendly staff at Hectors Deli were more than happy to clarify. While both terms might be used interchangeably, the ‘sando’ or ‘sandwich’ often reflects a more artisanal, layered creation, while ‘toasties’ lean towards pressed and toasted options.
Now, onto the stars of the show – the sandwiches themselves. We were spoiled for choice with options like Beef & Pickle, Tuna Melt, Chicken Salad, and Roast Eggplant. The real challenge was narrowing down our choices! Each sando boasted a unique blend of ingredients that promised a symphony of flavors.
Sandos with a Twist
Our selections finally arrived, and we were in awe of the craftsmanship that went into each creation. The Beef & Pickle, a true carnivore’s dream, was a mouthwatering symphony of succulent beef complemented by the tangy crunch of pickles. The Tuna Melt was a melange of gooey cheese and savory tuna that danced on our palates.
The Chicken Salad, a refreshing choice, offered a medley of tender chicken and crisp veggies, delivering a delightful crunch with every bite. And then, the Roast Eggplant stole the spotlight with its medley of earthy flavors that harmonized perfectly.
Buttering – The Culinary Sine Qua Non
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room – the OTT buttering that’s become synonymous with Hectors Deli. It’s practically criminal not to lavish their creations with generous layers of butter. And frankly, it’s a crime we’re more than willing to commit! The velvety, indulgent layer of butter melds seamlessly with the fillings, elevating each sando to a level of gourmet decadence that’s hard to put into words.
Artisanal Sandwiches Galore: Hectors Deli’s South Melbourne Charm
As we savored the last morsels of our sandos, one thing was abundantly clear – Hectors Deli isn’t just a deli; it’s an experience. The thoughtfully crafted sandwiches, the charming ambiance, and the passion infused into every creation make it a must-visit destination for any true food aficionado.
So, the next time you find yourself in South Melbourne, Richmond or Fitzroy, make it a point to stop by @hectors_deli. Whether you call them sandos or toasties, one thing’s for certain – they’ll redefine your understanding of a perfect sandwich. Your taste buds will thank you, and you’ll find yourself coming back for more of that culinary magic that only Hectors Deli can conjure. [...]Read more...
Craving South East Asian flavours? Look no further than Rice Paper Scissors in Melbourne CBD or their second location in Fitzroy! Feast on an array of remarkable tastes from classic to creative dishes and cocktails.
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Sambal Roasted Bone Marrow
Brace yourself for an explosion of flavours with the Sambal Roasted Bone Marrow. This dish is an absolute masterpiece, featuring succulent bone marrow roasted to perfection and topped with authentic South East Asian spices. Our friends Kim & Eric couldn’t resist indulging in this messy-to-eat kind of foodie delight – and neither will you!
Exotic Asian-Inspired Cocktails
Quench your thirst with a range of cocktails inspired by the unique flavours of the South East Asian region. Think lychee, coconut, lime, and a touch of chili – a perfect complement to the incredible dishes on offer.
Coconut Snapper Ceviche
Awaken your palate with the Coconut Snapper Ceviche, the surprising acidity of fresh pomelo creates a refreshing sensation that’ll leave you craving more.
BBQ Lamb Ribs Glazed with Whisky
Dive into finger-licking BBQ Lamb Ribs, glazed with a hint of whisky. Each bite is a burst of smoky goodness you won’t want to miss. And yes, it’s saucy!
Melbourne & Fitzroy
With venues in Fitzroy and Melbourne CBD, Rice Paper Scissors is set to satisfy your cravings for South East Asian flavours, no matter where you are.
Reserve Your Table
Don’t miss out on this incredible experience – book your table now. Gather your friends, bring your appetite, and let Rice Paper Scissors treat you to an unforgettable meal.
Prepare to indulge, enjoy, and relish the artistry of South East Asian cuisine – exclusively at Rice Paper Scissors! [...]Read more...
Discover the Green Delights of Matcha Mate on Hardware Street, Melbourne CBD
Calling all matcha enthusiasts and green tea aficionados! Your long-awaited dream has finally come true with the emergence of Matcha Mate, a unique pop-up establishment situated on Hardware Street in the heart of Melbourne CBD. This hidden gem promises to revolutionize your brunch and breakfast experiences by infusing them with the vibrant essence of matcha 🍵.
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Unveiling the Power of Antioxidant-Rich Matcha
At Matcha Mate, every culinary creation served is an embodiment of green goodness 💚. It’s not just about the color; it’s about the legendary health benefits that come with it. Antioxidant-rich matcha has been linked to an array of potential advantages for your well-being. From heart-friendly properties and liver protection to blood pressure regulation, enhanced cognitive clarity, weight management support, and even cancer-fighting potential, the offerings on Matcha Mate’s menu are more than just delicious – they’re nourishing.
A Culinary Journey to Elevate Your Mood
Indulging in the likes of French Toast and Matcha White Chocolate Cookie at Matcha Mate isn’t merely a feast for your taste buds – it’s a mood-enhancing experience. The undeniable pleasure of these dishes goes beyond flavor, sparking a noticeable uplift in mood that lingers long after the meal is over.
Finding Matcha Mate: Your Path to Green Goodness
For those ready to embark on this culinary and wellness adventure, the journey begins at HereIsNimbo on Hardware Street. Follow the vibrant blue walls and venture inside to unveil the green paradise that is Matcha Mate 🔵🟢. Nestled within Melbourne CBD’s bustling heart, this pop-up is set to redefine your perception of matcha-infused delights.
In the realm of Melbourne’s CBD, the matcha devotees’ dream has transformed into reality. At Matcha Mate, the union of matcha, brunch, and breakfast takes center stage, offering an experience that tantalizes the senses while nurturing your well-being. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to discover the enchantment of matcha on Hardware Street – your taste buds and health will thank you.
Click here for directions to Matcha Mate [...]Read more...
Nestled in the heart of Melbourne’s bustling Hardware Lane, Gracie exudes an irresistible charm that captivates wine and sake connoisseurs alike. This intimate 14-seat wine & sake bar offers a warm ambiance, accentuated by its soft underlit glow, where patrons are invited to indulge in a delightful array of lo-fi wines, locally-made sake, craft beers, and artisan spirits. If you’re seeking a refined and delightful experience, Gracie on Hardware Lane is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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Gracie’s Atmosphere
From the moment you step inside Gracie, you’ll be transported to a world of sophistication and allure. The subtle underlit ambiance casts a warm and inviting glow that sets the perfect stage for a memorable evening. Its cozy setting, designed to accommodate just 14 seats, fosters an intimate and exclusive atmosphere that allows guests to relish every moment.
A Connoisseur’s Haven for Sake & Wine
Gracie takes immense pride in curating a thoughtfully crafted selection of libations that caters to the refined tastes of its discerning customers. The wine enthusiasts are treated to an extensive range of lo-fi wines, brimming with distinctive flavors and unique character. Meanwhile, sake aficionados will be delighted by the impressive selection of locally-made sake, meticulously sourced for its quality and authenticity.
A Toast to Craftsmanship
For those seeking an adventure in spirits, Gracie offers an array of artisanal spirits that celebrate the dedication and craftsmanship of distillers worldwide. From velvety smooth whiskeys to aromatic gins, each libation boasts a distinct personality that speaks to the expertise of its makers. Craft beer lovers, too, will find solace in Gracie’s curated selection of microbrews, promising a taste journey like no other.
Discover Miwasakura Shuzo Omusubi
Our chief editor, Roslyn Foo’s favourite from the menu is the Miwasakura Shuzo Omusubi. Made with a high starch rice known as Hattan-Nishiki Miwasakura is a very traditional style of sake. Omusubi has an earthy aroma with hints of enoki mushroom and an extremely dry and savoury palate with a viscous texture.
Step into the Gracie’s Charm
Gracie on Hardware Lane has undoubtedly carved a niche for itself in Melbourne’s vibrant culinary landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast, a sake devotee, or an adventurer in search of artisanal spirits, this charming bar promises a captivating experience for all. Each visit to Gracie is a chance to discover new flavors, savor fine craftsmanship, and create lasting memories in the company of like-minded connoisseurs. [...]Read more...
Step into the dazzling world of cabaret and let your spirits soar as we take you on a journey back to the roaring 20s, Gatsby style! Recently, Cabaret Shows Australia hosted an enthralling “Christmas In July” event at the prestigious Encore St Kilda, promising a new and unique experience in the realm of entertainment. With the promise of a spectacular evening and a noble cause, this event became an instant hit, captivating attendees from all over the country.
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The Venue: Encore St Kilda
Nestled in the heart of St Kilda, Encore was the perfect setting for this grandiose affair. Its iconic charm and rich history blended seamlessly with the event’s theme, transporting guests to the golden era of the 1920s. As the doors opened, excitement filled the air, and the stage was set for a memorable night of celebration.
Immersing in Nostalgia
Stepping back in time, attendees were treated to an enchanting musical performance by Partimama and the Babes. The charm from the 1920s washed over the guests, evoking a sense of nostalgia for a bygone era. As the night progressed, the talented Timmy Byrne from Kiss FM took the stage, spinning classic house anthems that kept the energy high and the dance floor buzzing.
A Symphony of Flavors
To complement the enchanting performances, a delectable array of canapes, champagne, beer, and wine flowed throughout the night. The guests indulged in a symphony of flavors, savoring each culinary delight, making the experience even more delightful.
Spreading the Christmas Cheer
In the spirit of giving, Cabaret Shows Australia dedicated a portion of the event to support the Magic Moments Foundation Basket Brigade. Attendees generously contributed gifts for disadvantaged families, making their Christmas celebrations a little brighter. Under the shimmering Christmas tree, the gifts piled up, embodying the true essence of the holiday season.
A Legacy of Excellence
Cabaret Shows Australia has been a pioneering force in the entertainment and hospitality industry since 1988. With over three decades of expertise, they have continually enchanted audiences with their unique and unparalleled experiences. As they continue to set new benchmarks in the world of cabaret, their events promise to be a must-attend for all entertainment enthusiasts.
Embracing the Future
The “Christmas In July” event was a remarkable success, leaving attendees with lasting memories and eager anticipation for future shows.
For those who missed this captivating extravaganza, fret not! Cabaret Shows Australia has a host of exciting events lined up. Keep an eye on their website, cabaretshows.com.au, for updates on their next spellbinding performances.
In conclusion, the “Christmas In July” event by Cabaret Shows Australia was a resounding success, enchanting guests with a nostalgic journey to the 1920s and filling their hearts with the joy of giving. With their legacy of excellence and commitment to providing novel experiences, Cabaret Shows Australia continues to be at the forefront of the entertainment industry. As we eagerly await their next offering, the magic of cabaret lingers on, enticing us to partake in its grand spectacle. [...]Read more...
Are you ready for a festive journey through different parts of Europe from right here in Melbourne city? The much anticipated festival celebrating all things European culture is on very Friday throughout July, and 28th July is your last chance to immerse yourself in the wonders of this year’s European Night Market.
Enter via the iconic Madame Brussels Lane or laneways around the precinct as this year, the market has expanded its footprint, extending into Little Lonsdale Street for the very first time!
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Delightful Beverages to Savor
One of the highlights of this year’s European Night Market is the exclusive beverage partner, Little Lon. They have crafted a delightful selection of bespoke European themed cocktails that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Not to be missed are their award-winning Gins, with two must-try recommendations: the Warm Dutchy, a Mulled Dutch style Gin, and the Spiked Orange Hottie, a warm Gin and orange-infused hot chocolate. The best part? Little Lon invites you to indulge in these delightful concoctions at their charming Cocktail Bar and Distillery Door, located in the historic c1877 Heritage Listed Cottage. While you sip on their newly launched Absinthe, immerse yourself in the tales as old as the city itself, surrounding the legend of Little Lonsdale Street.
Savor the European Delicacies
Calling all foodies! The European Night Market is a gastronomic delight, and you won’t want to miss the opportunity to sink your teeth into the oozing cheesy Raclette on hot potatoes. Trust us; it’s worth the queue!
Street Performers and Entertainment
As you wander through the market, be sure to keep an eye out for the variety of street performers scattered throughout the precinct. From mesmerizing musicians to awe-inspiring magicians, these talented artists add a touch of magic to the already enchanting atmosphere.
Limited-Time Event
This extraordinary event only takes place on every Friday night in July. So, if you miss this week’s final European Night Market, you’ll have to wait patiently until next year for another chance to experience this European affair.
The European Night Market brings together the best of European culture, cuisine, and entertainment right in the heart of Madame Brussels Lane and Little Lonsdale Street. Whether you’re a foodie, a music enthusiast, or someone who simply loves to revel in the charm of European culture, the European Night Market promises an unforgettable evening filled with joy and wonder.
In conclusion, the European Night Market is an unmissable experience, bringing together the best of European culture, cuisine, and entertainment right in the heart of Madame Brussels Lane and Little Lonsdale Street. Don’t miss your last chance to be part of this magical event, and make sure to indulge in the array of European-themed cocktails and delectable treats on offer. Whether you’re a foodie, a music enthusiast, or someone who simply loves to revel in the charm of European culture, the European Night Market promises an unforgettable evening filled with joy and wonder. [...]Read more...
Step into a world of unparalleled entertainment and hospitality as Ballers Clubhouse Carlton celebrates its grand launch. This exciting new bar, a sibling to the renowned CBD venue, promises a thrilling experience like no other. From the electrifying game of NeoShuffle to innovative Interactive Cocktails, Ballers Clubhouse Carlton has become the city’s hottest spot for fun, food, and festivities.
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Discover NeoShuffle and More
At Ballers Clubhouse Carlton, get ready to experience NeoShuffle, a game that’s never been seen before in Australia. With automated scoring and electrifying gameplay, NeoShuffle is just one of the many exciting activities awaiting you. Curling and Blackjack Shuffleboard, Social Darts, Ping Pong, 360 Pong, Ballpit Karaoke, and Cool Pool are among the myriad of options that will keep you entertained all night long.
Revolutionary Interactive Cocktails
The venue takes the concept of mixology to a whole new level with its world’s first Interactive Cocktails. Prepare to be amazed as you witness mixologists crafting cocktails with a captivating twist, engaging all your senses. It’s not just a drink; it’s an immersive experience that you won’t find anywhere else.
Unmatched Hospitality and Ambiance
The grand launch event at Ballers Clubhouse Carlton was a night to remember, filled with non-stop entertainment, delicious food, and lively vibes. The team, led by Josh and Stephen, showcased unparalleled hospitality, making every guest feel special. With its rebirth, Carlton has established itself as the ultimate entertainment epicenter, offering Melburnians a refreshingly great reason to spend their time in the area.
The Perfect Venue for Every Occasion
Whether you’re planning a corporate gathering, a date night, or any celebration worth cherishing, Ballers Clubhouse Carlton provides the ideal setting. Its stunning new space is designed to cater to diverse events, ensuring everyone can have a fantastic time.
Ballers Clubhouse Carlton has officially opened its doors to offer an extraordinary entertainment experience that sets it apart from the rest. From NeoShuffle to Interactive Cocktails, the array of activities and innovations make it a must-visit destination in Melbourne. So, join the fun, indulge in delicious food and drinks, and make memories that will last a lifetime at the city’s hottest new bar, Ballers Clubhouse Carlton. [...]Read more...
A Wonderland of Lights and Entertainment
Step into a world of wonder as the Rialto Aglow Winter Lights Festival illuminates the Melbourne CBD. This immersive event promises 10 days of captivating experiences, brought to life by the talents of Australia’s leading public artists. Prepare to be enchanted by interactive light installations that will ignite your senses and spark your imagination.
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Mesmerizing Nights of Entertainment
As the sun sets, the festival comes alive with a burst of entertainment that will keep you engaged from 5pm to 11pm every night until July 29, 2023. The sounds of live music and performances will accompany the luminous displays, creating an atmosphere that’s as vibrant as it is magical.
Unveiling the Spectacular Installations
From the breathtaking projection art at Rialto Piazza to the captivating allure of the Lunar Lamp Posts and the playfully colourful Accordion, each installation is designed to transport you into a world of light and wonder. The Rialto Tower itself becomes a canvas of creativity, telling stories through light that will leave you awe-struck.
Embrace the Magic, It’s Free for All
The best part? Both entry to the festival and the live entertainment are completely free, inviting individuals and families alike to revel in the winter wonderland. Whether you come solo, with friends, or as a family unit, everyone is welcome to experience the magic of Rialto Aglow.
Forge Unforgettable Memories
Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this unforgettable winter extravaganza. Create memories that will last a lifetime as you immerse yourself in the captivating blend of lights, entertainment, and community spirit. Visit www.rialto.com.au/aglow for more information on the festival, its schedule, and the enchanting experiences that await. [...]Read more...
When in Adelaide, a visit to the renowned Adelaide Central Market is a must! This vibrant marketplace offers a plethora of South Australian produce that tantalizes taste buds. One gem within this bustling hub is Market & Meander, where you can indulge in a delectable home-style rustic brunch.
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Upon entering Market & Meander, the charming aroma of freshly prepared dishes fills the air. The menu boasts a variety of mouthwatering options, making it difficult to choose just one. The Nutella Hotcakes and Fried Mushrooms & Waffles are both eye-catching and tempting.
However, the true star of the show is the King’s Breakfast. What sets it apart is the personal touch of the chef who prepares your eggs and bacon exactly as you desire. It’s a delightful experience that ensures every bite is tailored to perfection. For coffee aficionados, the place is a haven, providing a perfect brew that delights the senses.
Guests staying at Hotel Indigo Adelaide Markets are in for a treat as breakfast is included with their stay. They can choose one hot breakfast menu item from a delightful selection. Additionally, they can relish in a continental buffet breakfast and enjoy unlimited servings of coffee, tea, or comforting hot chocolate.
The ambiance of Market & Meander is an experience in itself. The atrium and dining hall boast vibrant aesthetics, creating an inviting and picturesque setting. The combination of great food, friendly service, and delightful surroundings makes it a memorable brunch affair.
So, the next time you find yourself in Adelaide, don’t miss the chance to meander around the delightful Adelaide Central Market and treat yourself to a rustic brunch experience at Market & Meander. [...]Read more...
In Adelaide, the city of churches, there is an accommodation haven that captures the essence of local vibes, modern comforts, and curated spaces. Welcome to Hotel Indigo Adelaide, a vibrant boutique hotel that invites you to stay and meander.
During my week-long stay, I was captivated by the hotel’s unique charm, from the Merrymaker Rooftop Bar with its stunning city views to the infinity pool area that exuded a cool and calm vibe. Leaving Indigo Hotel Adelaide became a bittersweet moment as I felt so at home and cared for.
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From the moment I arrived, the staff, led by Alison and her exceptional team, made me feel like a cherished guest. The warm welcome created an immediate sense of belonging, the service staff went above and beyond my expectations. The team from concierge to housekeeping made me right feel at home.
Hotel Indigo Adelaide boasts a remarkable fusion of comfort and style. Each space is thoughtfully designed, creating an atmosphere that blends contemporary aesthetics with a touch of local character. Whether you’re seeking a chic relaxing retreat or a base for exploring the city, this boutique accommodation across the Adelaide Central Market caters to all your needs.
One of the highlights of my stay was the Merrymaker Rooftop Bar. Ascending to the top, my guests and I were met with panoramic views that showcased the city’s beautiful skyline. Sipping on our favourite cocktails, we felt the vibrant energy of the city unfolded beneath us. It was the perfect spot to unwind, connect with friends and create memories.
The hotel’s outdoor infinity pool area provided a secluded space for relaxation amidst the urban setting. Surrounded by comfortable loungers, it became my daytime sanctuary. Whether it’s a refreshing swim or simply to soak up the sun on the deck, the pool area offers a blissful escape.
Adelaide, known for its vibrant markets and cultural richness, is a city that truly captivates the senses. Hotel Indigo Adelaide’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the city’s hidden treasures. With its proximity to the Adelaide Central Market and other iconic attractions, I was able to immerse in the local culture, flavours, and art that make Adelaide so unique.
Our stay at Hotel Indigo Adelaide left an indelible impression. The seamless blend of luxury, comfort, and extra care factor that made me feel like a valued guest throughout my time there. As I bid farewell to Hotel Indigo Adelaide, I am already looking forward to my next stay. This boutique hotel in Adelaide has captured my heart. Hotel Indigo Adelaide is not just a hotel; it’s an experience that beckons you to immerse yourself in the soul of Adelaide.
If you’re planning to visit Adelaide, I highly recommend Hotel Ingo Adelaide as your city accommodation. From the stunning cityscape at the chic rooftop bar to the convenience of meandering around the Adelaide Central Market, Hotel Indigo Adelaide offers a staycation like no other. [...]Read more...
Are you ready to experience a merry atmosphere like never before? Welcome to MERRYMAKER, a stunning rooftop bar located 16 storeys above the lively streets of Adelaide’s Central Markets. This hidden gem, perched atop Hotel Indigo Adelaide, offers a unique experience that will leave you in awe.
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The first thing that captures your attention at MERRYMAKER is its vibrant atmosphere. As you step onto the rooftop, you’re greeted with a kaleidoscope of colors, setting the perfect backdrop for celebrations, whether they’re grand occasions or simple joys of life.
Cocktail enthusiasts will be delighted with the curated cocktails on offer. MERRYMAKER’s mixologists have crafted a delightful menu that caters to all tastes. From classic concoctions to innovative blends, each sip promises to be a delightful adventure for your taste buds. If craft beer is more your style, you’ll find a wide selection to choose from, satisfying even the most discerning beer lovers.
However, what sets MERRYMAKER apart is its wine list. Pouring the essence of the Barossa Valley straight into your glass, the selection of wines promises an unforgettable journey through South Australia’s renowned wine country. Savor each sip as you revel in the stunning panoramic views that stretch out before you.
Sunset at MERRYMAKER is a moment of pure magic. As the sun dips below the horizon, casting its golden glow over the rolling Adelaide Hills, you’ll find yourself captivated by the beauty of nature’s canvas. It’s an experience that stays etched in your memory forever.
If you’re planning a visit to South Australia, MERRYMAKER is a must-visit destination. Whether you’re a local looking for a new favorite spot or a traveler seeking extraordinary experiences, this rooftop bar promises to be an unforgettable stop on your journey.
Aside from the delightful offerings, MERRYMAKER is part of the renowned Hotel Indigo Adelaide, where attentive service staff cater to your every need, ensuring your stay is nothing short of exceptional. We had the pleasure of staying at this hotel for a week and can’t stop raving about the wonderful venues and the warm hospitality we experienced.
So, the next time you find yourself in Adelaide, take a flight of fancy up to MERRYMAKER – an oasis of joy, color, and delight amid the bustling cityscape. Don’t forget to capture the stunning moments and share them with your friends! 🍸 @irisigmkting @roslynfoo [...]Read more...
Indulging in a delightful Sunday filled with laughter and gastronomic wonders, we embarked on a captivating adventure at the Australian Sake Festival held in Melbourne’s renowned Queen Victoria Market. This vibrant event brought together sake enthusiasts and food lovers to immerse themselves in the richness of Japanese culture, cuisine, and, of course, the star of the show—sake. Join us as we recount our unforgettable experience, from discovering exquisite sakes to savoring delectable Japanese delicacies.
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Exploring the World of Sake
As we entered the festival, our senses were immediately captivated by the enticing aroma of sake permeating the air. With eager anticipation, we ventured into the world of this traditional Japanese rice wine, ready to explore a wide array of flavors and nuances. Among the numerous sake retailers present, Sakedokoro Namara stood out as our favorite. Their sake offerings delighted our palates, leaving us no choice but to bring home a generous assortment of bottles to relish later, including the very delicious Yuzushu.
A Gastronomic Adventure
No culinary journey would be complete without savoring the diverse range of Japanese delicacies available at the festival. Our taste buds were treated to a mouthwatering assortment of Janapese streetfood and we were impressed with the ika (squid) noodles prepared by renowned Japanese Private Chef Kengo Hiromatsu. You can book his private home dining or event catering services here.
A refreshing break from the sake tasting led us to the Yuzu Cafe, where we discovered the most invigorating lemonade, as promoted by Jun Hasegawa from Tryber. This citrus-infused delight perfectly complemented the vibrant atmosphere of the festival.
Our appetite further intensified as we sampled delectable treats from Ikuei Arakane, featuring gluten-free soy sauce. The combination of authentic flavors and dietary inclusivity was a true testament to the festival’s commitment to showcasing the best of Japanese cuisine.
Embracing Tradition
Immersing ourselves in the vibrant ambiance, we couldn’t resist indulging in classic Japanese street food. Takoyaki, the savory octopus-filled balls, satisfied our cravings for a savory delight, while karaage, the crispy and succulent Japanese-style fried chicken, tantalized our taste buds with its aromatic blend of spices.
To top off our culinary journey, we couldn’t resist devouring the decadent Nama Choco from Mamecocoa Official. Each bite of the luscious chocolate treat transported us to a realm of unparalleled sweetness.
A Sold-Out Extravaganza
Our invitation to this sold-out event bestowed upon us a sense of privilege, granting us the opportunity to partake in an extraordinary celebration of sake and Japanese culture. The Australian Sake Festival at Victoria Market was a testament to the growing popularity and appreciation of sake within Melbourne’s culinary landscape. The event’s success has undoubtedly left a lasting impression on all who attended, eagerly anticipating its return in the future.
Our experience at the Australian Sake Festival was nothing short of extraordinary. From the myriad of sake varieties that tantalized our taste buds to the delightful array of Japanese culinary delights, the festival immersed us in the richness of Japanese culture and cuisine. As we bid farewell to this remarkable event, our hearts brimmed with gratitude for the opportunity to be a part of such a joyous celebration. Until the return of the Sake Festival, we shall cherish the memories of this OISHII and ICHIBAN experience—truly a toast to the senses. [...]Read more...
Discover a hidden culinary gem that strikes the perfect balance between low-key charm and irresistible allure. Nestled in the heart of South Melbourne, James South Melbourne effortlessly combines industrial chic with understated elegance. From its unassuming entrance to the warm and impeccable service staff, every aspect of this humble hatted restaurant is designed to delight. Join us as we recount our unforgettable dining experience and explore the standout dish and wine that left a lasting impression.
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Industrial Elegance
James South Melbourne’s unpretentious exterior belies the sophisticated dining experience that awaits inside. Once you step through its unassuming entrance, you’re greeted by a comfortable and inviting dining room. The decor seamlessly blends industrial elements with an elegant touch, creating a unique and unforgettable ambiance..
Impeccable Service
The true mark of an exceptional dining experience lies not only in the cuisine but also in the service. At James South Melbourne, we were treated to warm and excellent service from the moment we walked in. The attentive staff added an extra layer of enjoyment to our meal, making us feel valued and pampered throughout the evening.
Culinary Masterpiece – Abalone, Wild Rice, Sticky Rice & Guts Butter
Prepare to have your taste buds captivated by a culinary masterpiece – the Abalone, Wild Rice, Sticky Rice & Guts Butter. This dish stole the show with its exquisite blend of flavors and textures. The tender abalone, paired with perfectly cooked wild and sticky rice, elevated by the delectable guts butter, created an unforgettable symphony of taste that lingers in our memories.
Memorable Wine – French Inopia Blanc Clos Saouma
To complement the delectable dishes, James South Melbourne offers an impressive wine selection. Among the standout wines we savored, the French Inopia Blanc Clos Saouma left a lasting impression. Its nuanced flavors and impeccable pairing with the cuisine made it a wine to remember.
Clam & Bread for Lunch
Our dining experience at James South Melbourne left us eagerly anticipating our return. We can’t wait to indulge in their special Clam & Bread, a dish that has earned rave reviews from regulars and food enthusiasts alike. This delectable offering promises to be the perfect choice for a delightful lunchtime experience.
James South Melbourne is a true culinary revelation, offering a one-of-a-kind dining experience that combines industrial charm with understated elegance. From the impeccable service to the standout dish and memorable wine, every element of this humble hatted restaurant contributes to a remarkable and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply in search of a delightful gastronomic adventure, James South Melbourne is a must-visit destination that promises to leave you coming back for more. [...]Read more...
Are you a coffee lover who always puts “coffee first” in your daily routine? If so, you’re in for a treat! Melbourne’s vibrant coffee culture boasts a plethora of unique coffee shops, each offering their own distinctive brews and ambiance. In this article, we’ll delve into one of the city’s current favorites, the charming Bench Coffee Co. Nestled in a black-and-white minimalist corner shop on Little Collins, this hidden gem has been winning hearts with its premium pour-over coffees, leaving a lasting impression on coffee aficionados and enthusiasts alike.
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Discovering the Allure of Bench Coffee Co.
A little over a year ago, Melbourne locals and visitors alike were introduced to the captivating allure of Bench Coffee Co. Situated on Little Collins, this trendy coffee joint stands out with its chic black-and-white aesthetics, creating a stylish and inviting atmosphere for all coffee enthusiasts. The moment you step into this cozy nook, you’ll be welcomed by the enticing aroma of freshly brewed coffee, setting the stage for a memorable coffee experience.
The Premium Pour-Over: A Must-Try Indulgence
Among the variety of offerings at Bench Coffee Co., their premium pour-over coffee stands out as a must-try indulgence. Priced at $10, this handcrafted coffee is a treat for your taste buds. The skilled baristas take the time and effort to pour precision and care into each cup, ensuring that the flavors are perfectly balanced. The pour-over process yields an aromatic and rich brew that is sure to delight even the most discerning coffee connoisseurs.
An Experience to Savor
The premium pour-over coffee at Bench Coffee Co. is not just a beverage; it’s an experience to savor. As the hot liquid cascades gracefully into your cup, you can’t help but be captivated by the intricate dance of flavors. The result is a cup of coffee that embodies the essence of Melbourne’s coffee culture. Its distinct aroma, combined with the seamless fusion of flavors, makes this a memorable coffee journey that’s worth every penny.
A Sharing Delight (Or Not)
If you’re in the mood to share your coffee experience with a friend or loved one, Bench Coffee Co.’s premium pour-over is a delightful option. Pouring just enough to fill about two cups, it encourages a cozy and intimate coffee-sharing moment. However, if you’d rather keep the indulgence all to yourself, don’t worry; this exquisite coffee is equally satisfying when enjoyed solo.
What’s Your Melbourne Coffee Pick?
We’ve shared our current favorite, Bench Coffee Co., but we’d love to hear about yours! Melbourne is brimming with delightful coffee shops, each offering its own unique blend and ambiance. Whether you prefer the hipster vibes of a bustling city cafe or the quaint charm of a hidden corner shop, Melbourne has something to satisfy every coffee enthusiast.
As we conclude our exploration of Melbourne’s coffee scene, Bench Coffee Co. emerges as a standout gem that deserves a spot on every coffee lover’s must-visit list. With its chic black-and-white aesthetics and the unforgettable premium pour-over experience, this Melbourne coffee haven is sure to leave you with lasting memories of aromatic delights. So, the next time you find yourself strolling through Little Collins, make sure to pause and savor the charm of Bench Coffee Co. as you indulge in a cup of coffee that embodies the essence of this vibrant city’s coffee culture. Cheers to the love of coffee and the endless pursuit of finding our perfect brew! [...]Read more...
Looking for the perfect afternoon escape to satisfy your culinary cravings? Look no further than Pan Pacific Melbourne’s all-new High Tea, a bespoke experience curated by the award-winning Director of Food & Beverage & Culinary Operations, Deepak Mishra. This unforgettable High Tea presents a three-tier tower filled with delectable sweet, savory, and warm delights, blending native Australian cuisine with the vibrant flavors of Singaporean and Southeast Asian ingredients. Vegan foodies are in for a treat too, as the experience includes an equally sophisticated 3-tier vegan sweet & savory spread that has left food connoisseurs, raving about its exquisite flavors.
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Delightful Vegan-Friendly High Tea Selection
Pan Pacific Melbourne’s High Tea caters to every palate, offering an extensive array of vegan-friendly sweet and savory treats. Indulge in the delightful combination of flavors, featuring an orange blossom, white chocolate, and lavender scone, a mini lobster roll, serrano ham croquette, and a coconut passionfruit parfait. Each item is meticulously crafted to ensure a harmonious blend of tastes and textures, making it a delightful experience for vegans and non-vegans alike.
Luxurious TWG Teas and Tempting Champagne
Complementing the exquisite delicacies are the luxurious TWG teas from Singapore. With a range of flavors like Moroccan Mint and Waterfruit Green, these teas add a perfect touch of sophistication to your High Tea experience. For those seeking an extra touch of elegance, we highly recommends sipping on a glass or two of the classic Veuve Clicquot Champagne, elevating the indulgence to new heights.
Unwind in Elegance at Dock 37 Bar and Kitchen
Pan Pacific Melbourne’s new High Tea can be relished at Dock 37 Bar and Kitchen, creating an ambiance of elegance and relaxation. Whether it’s a weekend outing or a special celebration, the High Tea is available every Friday to Sunday between 12 pm to 4 pm. At just $75 per person, including a delightful TWG tea selection, and an additional $25 for a glass of Veuve Clicquot Champagne, this experience promises to be an unforgettable journey for your taste buds.
Escape the ordinary and embark on an extraordinary culinary journey at Pan Pacific Melbourne’s High Tea. Discover the perfect blend of flavors and aromas, meticulously curated by the esteemed Director of Food & Beverage & Culinary Operations, Deepak Mishra. Whether you’re a vegan foodie or a lover of fine dining, the three-tier tower of sweet, savory, and warm delights, combined with TWG teas and Veuve Clicquot Champagne, will leave you with cherished memories of an unforgettable afternoon indulgence. Book your High Tea experience now and treat yourself to the best that Melbourne has to offer! [...]Read more...
If you love traveling for food and currently having FOMO on authentic Thai food, there’s a hidden gem in Melbourne that demands your attention. Nestled in the heart of the city, Nana Thai is home to a real Mookata experience that will tantalize your taste buds like never before.
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🦀 Thai Marinated Raw Crab Salad
Prepare yourself for a delightful explosion of flavours as you savour the best-ever Thai Marinated Raw Crab Salad in Melbourne! Nana Thai takes pride in serving this exquisite dish that will leave you craving for more.
🐷 Deep Fried Pork Belly
Calling all pork enthusiasts! Indulge in the mouthwatering crispy goodness that will leave you yearning for seconds. Nana Thai’s Deep Fried Pork Belly will have you praising every crispy bite.
🍗 Mookata Set: Thai Style Hotpot & BBQ
Devour Nana Thai’s Mookata Set, a delightful combination of meat and seafood to cook on your Thai Hotpot and BBQ table top burner stove. One set is enough to feed two and promises room in your bellies for other dishes!
🧋 Authentic Thai Milk Tea
Sip on the perfectly balanced Thai Milk Tea – not too sweet and you can taste real tea flavour. Nana Thai’s Thai Milk Tea is the ideal pairing to all its flavour-bombed dishes.
We spent only $40 per person on this amazing feast, an absolute steal considering the delightful ensemble of dishes on offer, fresh seafood included! Make your way to Bourke St, the city foodie escapade is worth your dollar!
Ps: Here’s our the secret to beating the crazy queue. Follow @nana_mookata for regular “No Q Now” updates. They do not take reservations! [...]Read more...
If you find yourself strolling down Melbourne’s prestigious Collins Street, your eyes might be drawn to the towering 1880s Olderfleet building, where a contemporary Nordic dining experience awaits. Welcome to FREYJA, a culinary haven that beautifully blends the charms of Scandinavian gastronomy with the vibrancy of Australian hospitality. Prepare to be mesmerized by the venue’s vast Gothic cathedral-style windows and indulge in an unforgettable journey through flavours and culture.
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At the heart of FREYJA’s culinary mastery stands the talented Head Chef Jae Bang, whose culinary journey spans across two-Michelin-starred establishments like Re-naa in Norway and Daniel in New York. Now at the helm of FREYJA’s kitchen, Chef Jae Bang seamlessly fuses traditional preservation techniques—pickling, smoking, and fermenting—with locally sourced, hyper-seasonal produce. The result is a harmonious symphony of tastes, textures, and aromas that take your senses on an enthralling ride.
Step inside @freyjamelbourne and immerse yourself in a multi-sensory dining adventure. FREYJA not only offers a tantalizing taste of Nordic delicacies but also uncovers the rich tapestry of Melbourne’s history and culture. The restaurant’s culinary philosophy goes beyond the confines of plates, introducing guests to the stories that each dish tells—a fusion of past and present, tradition and innovation.
Memorable dishes await those with an adventurous palate. Picture this: a buttery waffle sizzling on an old-fashioned cast-iron pan over an open fire, crowned with a golden tin of smoked sour cream and adorned with glistening trout roe. The explosion of flavours will linger on your taste buds long after the last bite.
For the more daring connoisseurs, the beef tartare takes center stage. Made with salted quandong and delicately dolloped with a green emulsion of tarragon and Tasmanian mountain pepper, this dish showcases Chef Jae Bang’s artistry at its finest.
Saving the sweetest notes for the grand finale, the Chestnut dessert is a delightful ode to the classic Mont Blanc. The choux pastry encases a luscious rum and raisin jam, draped in a velvety chestnut cream, and adorned with a drizzle of toasted kelp oil and dried kelp—a true masterpiece of taste and presentation.
FREYJA ❄️ is the epitome of blending the contemporary with the classic, and the simplicity with luxury. More than a restaurant; FREYJA it is a journey of flavours, finesse and history. Chef Jae Bang’s innovative approach, coupled with the restaurant’s inviting ambiance, creates an experience that leaves a lasting impression.
Discover FREYJA—a culinary gem that will whisk you away on a voyage of taste and wonder. Visit www.freyjarestaurant.com to embark on this exquisite experience. [...]Read more...
Panda Hotpot in Carlton, Melbourne is a traditional Chinese hotpot restaurant that offers not only delicious food but also a live Sichuan Opera performance that will transport you to the heart of China. Bring your family and friends for a night of unforgettable cultural immersion.
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Panda Hotpot’s hotpot is a must-try. Originating from Sichuan province, this style of cooking involves simmering a variety of fresh ingredients in a pot of boiling broth. The broth comes in different flavours ranging from mild to extra spicy and is served in a communal pot for guests to cook and share. You’ll find an extensive selection of meats, seafood, vegetables, and noodles to choose from, ensuring everyone can find something they enjoy. If you’re adventurous, we encourage you to try a more exotic cut like duck’s blood, pig’s brain, intestines and liver. Don’t go past the fresh watermelon juice that pumps out of a fire extinguisher!
But why stop at just eating? Panda Hotpot goes above and beyond by also offering a Sichuan Opera performance. This traditional Chinese theatre enthrals its audience with acrobatics, music, and colourful costumes, you’ll feel transported to ancient China. It’s an excellent opportunity to learn about and appreciate another culture, all while enjoying your meal.
In addition to the hotpot and Sichuan Opera, Panda Hotpot offers other cultural performances from time to time, including traditional Chinese gu zheng (Chinese plucked zither) musical instrument performances. The restaurant also hosts special events throughout the year, such as Chinese New Year celebrations. Keep an eye out for their upcoming events for an even more unforgettable experience.
Panda Hotpot’s ambience creates a welcoming and relaxing dining experience. The restaurant’s decor uses dark wood and red tones to evoke a rich Eastern culture feeling, while the brightly lit dining hall with lanterns sets the mood for a festive gathering. Plus, the attentive and friendly staff will make sure you have everything you need for a fantastic night out.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience that’s a feast for your taste buds and your senses, look no further than Panda Hotpot in Carlton, Melbourne. The delicious hotpot, along with live Sichuan Opera and other cultural performances, makes for a unique and immersive night. The private rooms, special events, and welcoming ambience make Panda Hotpot the perfect place to gather with friends and family for an epic dinner destination. [...]Read more...
Nestled in the heart of vibrant South Melbourne, in an inconspicuous-looking alley adjacent to the bustling South Melbourne market is Chez Dré, a cafe and bakery created by pastry chef Andréa (Dré) Reiss and business partner, Steve Sam. Chez Dre Café has been a longstanding favourite among locals and visitors alike, boasting an extensive French-inspired all-day breakfast menu using the highest quality local produce and organic ingredients; it is the epitome of Melbourne brunching culture.
However, this charming café serves up more than just a quality brunch and lunch experience.
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Rustic-Chic Warehouse & Courtyard
A delightful weekend brunch at Chez Dre Café is almost like an enduring tradition for many Melbournians like myself. While it is a large converted warehouse, the dining space feels warm and welcoming. The vibrant energy and friendly service are the perfect complement to the French-inspired desserts and savoury dishes – fun, upbeat, premium.
Chili Scrambled Eggs: A Fiery Fusion of Flavours
Among Chez Dre Café’s standout dishes, the Chili Scrambled Eggs undoubtedly take center stage for us. Imagine fluffy buttery scrambled eggs served on warm crumpets, accompanied with goat’s milk, drizzled with an exciting touch of fiery chilli sauce, topped with delightful bacon fat crumbs and fresh herbs garnish. It’s a classic brekkie dish with a spicy twist that will awaken your senses, yet somehow harmonious as the layers and textures merge as one flavour bomb.
Coffee Is Good at Chez Dre
Nothing upsets Melburnians more than our coffees being average. But rest assured that the baristas at Chez Dre gets it right, each and every time. Trust us, we are regulars!
If you’re not in the mood for coffee, indulge in their serious hot chocolate (choose from 34% ‘Satilia lactee’ milk chocolate, 64% ‘Guayaquil’ dark chocolate, or the Signature milk x dark blend). Or go super healthy with their nutrient dense Pink or Green smoothies – Pink has dragonfruit, strawberry, banana, mango, goji, chia; Green has kale, spinach, avocado, banana, apple.
Homestyle Pastries, Desserts & More
The bakery sells a variety of artisan breads, homestyle cakes and cookies, all baked in-house using traditional methods that involve organic flours, overnight fermentation and the goodness of whole foods.
Brunching at Chez Dre Café, South Melbourne
Chez Dre Café has etched itself as a cornerstone of Melbourne’s brunch culture, a destination that continues to enthrall its patrons with every visit. Whether you’re a seasoned café connoisseur, a curious foodie or a visitor wandering the suburbs of Melbourne, a visit to Chez Dre Café promises an unforgettable experience that celebrates the art of Melbourne brunching in all its splendor. Bon appétit!
Browse their latest drinks and food menu https://chezdre.au/ [...]Read more...
For the past seventeen years, a sizzling sensation has been captivating the taste buds of locals and tourists alike in the heart of Melbourne. Since its inception in 2006, Hwaro has been firing up the city’s finest Korean BBQ experience, and today, it proudly stands as a second-generation family-run business, carrying forward its legacy of mouthwatering delights.
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At Hwaro, the definition of “best” takes on a whole new meaning. Their menu boasts an impressive array of delectable dishes that are sure to leave any food enthusiast in awe. The house dry-aged Wagyu tender strip and scotch fillet are tender masterpieces, expertly prepared to perfection. The LA Gal Bi is meticulously marinated, infusing each bite with an explosion of flavors. Meanwhile, the juicy Bulgogi and succulent Chilli pork belly take the culinary experience to new heights.
One of the most endearing aspects of Hwaro’s legacy lies in its commitment to preserving tradition. Each morning, the owner Kwan’s mother personally takes charge of the kitchen, bringing decades of expertise to the charcoal grill. This traditional method of cooking infuses the dishes with an authentic smoky aroma, setting Hwaro apart from the crowd.
However, amidst this impressive lineup, one item emerged as the real show-stopper – the PORK SKIN! Words fail to capture the delight that this dish brings to the table. For connoisseurs of high collagen & protein-rich chewy goodness, this is an absolute must-try. The bouncy texture and addictive taste of the pork skin make it an unforgettable highlight of the dining experience.
The hospitality and dedication of Kwan and his team deserve special mention. Their attentiveness and care ensure that every guest feels welcome and well taken care of. A visit to Hwaro is more than just a meal; it’s an extraordinary KBBQ experience that leaves a lasting impression on anyone lucky enough to partake in it.
As we reminisce about past visits, we couldn’t be happier to return to this old favorite after a few years. HWARO continues to reign as the go-to destination for a truly memorable Korean BBQ adventure. But be forewarned; the secret is out, and this place is in high demand! Booking early is essential to secure a table, as Hwaro’s popularity shows no signs of waning. Also, be prepared to indulge fully during the meal and take a refreshing shower after dinner.
Hwaro is more than just a restaurant; it’s an institution that celebrates family, tradition, and an unwavering commitment to delivering the most extraordinary KBBQ experience. If you find yourself in Melbourne, don’t miss the opportunity to embark on a journey of flavors and create lasting memories at Hwaro. [...]Read more...
I first became aware of the Comme des Garçons by seeing the heart-shaped logo popping up everywhere in Thailand. As a kid, my perception of it then was merely a fashion label for wealthy families who enjoy minimal fashion staples.
For over a decade, my awareness of the brand was just that; a prestigious clothing label with a heart and eyes graphic.
Fast forward to December 2022, I received an invitation to Comme des Garçons Melbourne’s 10th-anniversary party. I immediately recalled the brand simply for its iconic symbol. That recognition was followed by my existing perception from childhood, which evolved as I discovered some interesting facts about Comme des Garçons and its heart.
The Comme des Garçons Empire
Comme des Garçons (CdG) – a french name that translates to “like the boys” that is, in fact, a Japanese brand! The founder, Rei Kawakubo, established the label in 1969 in Paris with no formal fashion training but pure passion. The brand was an instant hype in Japan. Kawakubo’s work through CdG has always been known for its avant-garde and inventiveness making the brand framework noncommercial and exclusive. CdG represents imagination and creativity in fashion.
But those unfamiliar with the fashion brand and its world, like me, would only associate its identity with its mainstream label, PLAY.
The Heart of PLAY
The iconic graphic was designed by Polish artist Filip Pagowski and was launched as a logo for the CdG PLAY line in 2002. In an interview, Filip Pagowski explained, “I remember working on something… not connected to anything. I got this idea of a red heart with a set of eyes. I drew it instantaneously, and the first draft was it. I submitted it for another CDG project, for which it never made it, but eventually, it resurfaced, making bigger waves as a logo for the PLAY line.”
CDG describes its iconic logo as “a sign, a symbol, a feeling”.
Although PLAY was launched as a casual and playful streetwear for younger men and women with their most entry-level prices, which received controversial views from CdG traditionalists, PLAY became a movement – a cultural cult.
The simple colour palette and style creatively embedded with Pagowski’s design in various ways. Accessible and making a great style statement, PLAY became the CdG mainstream label.
The house of CdG simultaneously has a runway collection while also having multiple in-house brands that they oversee. Reportedly, PLAY is CdG’s most lucrative label, accounting for more than 12 per cent of the company’s revenue.
It’s no surprise to me as I have seen the logo being collaborated with many brands like Converse All Star, H&M, and Nike. PLAY is seasonless. It never goes on sale or gets marketed down.
The Love Worldwide
They are very selective with their global distribution and avoid overexposure overall. But they didn’t need to. They got a cult following that represents its culture and spreads the love for PLAY all around the world. It feels like a subtle invitation that invokes a strong association with the brand.
This is also true for Melbourne’s boutique store. Located at 13 Somerset Place, formerly an art gallery, the store has a sense of rawness yet is carefully curated with great attention. Although it is in the heart of Melbourne CBD, it’s slightly off the beaten track and generally discovered by word of mouth. My journey to their event really exhibited a sense of cultural exclusivity for me.
More Than Just a Heart with Eyes
It is impressive to me how they accurately communicated the brand’s image with a simple heart drawing to the 10-year-old me. But it’s not just that which makes it work. The years of the creative process, the strong framework and philosophy of CdG, the multitudes of other collections built like a family network, and the combination of talents with artists and brands – are what make PLAY the gateway for CdG’s most recognisable and timeless success.
More than just a heart shape with eyes, it’s a distinctive statement of art that will continue to make waves for many generations to come. [...]Read more...
Reimagine Your Wellbeing
The health and well-being industry is booming, and that’s because, we’re always looking for products that give us the maximum benefits. We all know that leading a healthy lifestyle is important, but sometimes getting all the nutrients, our bodies need from our diet can be hard.
So more and more people are drawn towards taking supplements to improve health. We are more concerned with the nutritional values of our food, but how about drinks? We want foods and beverages that taste great and make us feel good without any negative side effects. But then we would order a relatively healthy meal and then treat ourselves to a sugary drink because they taste so good and feel like there’s no better option.
Well, it’s time to rethink your drinks because a new functional beverage range, Re’drinks, is here to take the industry by storm.
Re’drinks is one Australian-owned and made company that’s leading the way in this area. The Re’drinks range achieves this through a functional, on-the-go beverage without toxins and nasties. They are sugar-free, gluten-free, vegan-friendly and naturally flavoured!
Re’drinks ranges are crafted with natural ingredients to provide maximum benefit for your body and mind, keeping you healthy from the inside out. And the best part? They actually taste good!
The re’drinks range includes Re’focus, Re’new, Re’lax and Re’store, each with unique benefits!
Re’focus Your Mind & Body
This drink is perfect for when you need an extra boost of concentration and clarity. Made with a natural ingredient like phytolin to help extend cognitive performance. But what is phytolin? Phytolin is a bioactive formula – a natural extract from the sugarcane plant. It also contains an enriching antioxidant level.
Re’focus has this refreshing tropical flavour, making it the perfect mix for a cocktail recipe if you want to spice things up! Personally, I think this one tastes the best out of the range. Of course, you would not believe that it’s sugar-free, but it is!
Re’focus will help you power through even the most challenging tasks. Whether prepping for a big presentation or studying for exams, a can of Focus will help you stay sharp and on top of your game.
Re’new Your Skin & Glow
Imagine a beauty routine that not only helps you to look young and beautiful but also one that is refreshing and invigorating. Re’new does just that. It combines 15g of hydrolysed collagen with refreshing fruit fizz to assist in skin hydration and elasticity. Instead of taking boring collagen supplements, now you can enjoy this fruit fizz goodness in style. Re’new moves the daily beauty routine from nighttime to any time, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of collagen at any time of day. One can is all you need to meet your daily collagen requirements.
A solution to beauty from the inside out. Re’new will make a difference in your appearance and in your mood. You’ll love the way you feel.
Re’lax. Stay Calm & Clear
Re’lax is a new era in mindfulness and relaxation. Containing Ashwagandha, a traditional herb used in Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years to reduce stress and enhance well-being. It is referred to as a ‘royal herb’ for its extensive health benefits to the human body, whether physical, chemical or biological. With natural peach tea flavour, you can reap its benefits with Re’lax anytime you need to unwind. It will help restore balance while you rest or during sleep.
Re’store (Launching soon)
This upcoming drink will focus on delivering digestive balance. Re’store uses a gentle blend of sea kelp and apple cider vinegar to help de-bloat and settle your stomach. Sea kelp is well known for its anti-inflammatory properties, a natural of vitamins A, B1, B2, C, D and E, and minerals including zinc, iodine, magnesium, iron, potassium, copper and calcium. Re’store brings you the benefits of having a balanced digestive system while also containing unique blends like honey myrtle, making this product very refreshing on taste buds!
Rethink Your Health With Re’Drinks
Good health should be convenient, delicious, and affordable. So whether you’re looking for a healthy pick-me-up or a delicious way to rehydrate before bedtime, Re’drinks has something for everyone. Each drink is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to keep you feeling your best. Their range of delicious beverages is formulated with natural ingredients to provide maximum benefit—without any of the ick factors!
So the next time you’re looking for a functional beverage to support your health and well-being, reach for Re’drinks.
Available in-store at national retailers: Coles, Crown Spa, Drakes Supermarket, Foodland, and Romeo’s
Or order online today!
For retailers interested in stocking Re’drinks, click here. [...]Read more...
Melburnians, we feel you. You deserve some happiness delivered in this Lockdown 2.0. Let’s raise our happy vibes with these 10 tasty deliveries. Note: We have had ALL of them but one (waiting on Bistro Vue), so it’s safe to say that this list is proven to be really good by us. Share on, stay warm, keep your distance and enjoy!
1. Son In Law
If you had enough of sourdough, like us, it’s time to introduce baos and buns to start your day. But we want to make sure that you do it in the happiest way possible. Son In Law‘s signature Cartoon Bao Bun (coconut pandan, Thai milk tea & Nutella banana) & Cartoon Gua Bao (crispy pork belly, roasted duck or crispy tofu). Oh, and the flavours will awaken your taste buds! Check their Instagram to find out when they are delivering to your suburb!
https://www.instagram.com/p/CBIWL4ajo0g/
2. Gukbab
We are super proud of our friends at Gukbab, a traditional family-style Korean restaurant that’s been serving diners in Melbourne CBD since 2011. Gukbab a.k.a. soups is the answer to your winter comfort food. Step it up with Kimchi Pancakes or share a heart-warming hot pot at home. Did we say they have 7 different flavours of Korean Fried Chicken? They remained OPEN for business (lunch and dinner) in the city amidst the lockdown and now delivering tasty Korean dishes via DoorDash & Hungry Panda. A humble restaurant is worthy of your support!
https://www.instagram.com/p/CCKNm25BL6o/
3. Luna’s Food & Wine Bar by Mark Normoyle
Have lunch delivered to you by Luna’s in St Kilda! You can find them on UberEats now or just call them direct for pickups. The really delicious Chicken Burger is a must-have, and their wood-fired pizza will become your new comfort food. And we heard someone said dinner and cocktails are available on Fridays and Saturdays – would you mix your own or have it pre-made? This is the legend Chef Mark Normoyle first ever own restaurant, right in front of St Kilda beach and he’s made sure that our dogs are looked after too – check out the coolest dog treats!
https://www.instagram.com/p/CCFzJ24KNdV/
4. Popstic Ice Cream & Sorbet
While the sun is still shining upon us, sit back for a few minutes and enjoy a burst of happiness made by this family-owned business. Think big-hearted ice cream, sorbet and icy poles made without compromise – Crème Anglaise based ice cream and fresh fruit sorbets that have a life of their own – smooth, confident and delicious. We are madly in love with Som and Kendra’s story along with their cutest son gracing our Instagram feed every now and then. Ps: their account is a joyful one to follow for daily happiness! Thanks to Covid-19, they are now delivering sampler and gift packs (from $59) direct to your home or office, boxed in dry ice. Your goal is to choose between alcoholic or non-alcoholic flavours! Tip: Add this to your gifting ideas!
https://www.instagram.com/p/CB6js_3hxDu/
5. Naked Wines
Wine o’clock has moved even earlier in this second lockdown, and let us be the first to own up – Dry July has been an epic fail for us, lol. So let’s embrace winter in style with our new friends at Naked Wines. Put simply, it’s a smarter way to consume more wine. They get us better wines for less money, and still get the winemaker a great deal – we survive, they survive, it’s a win-win scenario! Will you join us in a world where the only wine you ever drank was lovingly created by insanely talented independent winemakers, where the quality of every bottle was guaranteed top-notch but you didn’t pay crazy prices? Rug up with their Winter Essentials Red Dozen at only $165.
https://www.instagram.com/p/B_6qAAyDOYp/
6. Ansari Indian by Nabil Ansari
Sunda’s Sous Chef, Nabil Ansari, started takeaway meals from his tiny Carlton apartment in the last lockdown, which skyrocketed once Instagram got the word. He has now joined The Windsor family, with more work area for him to create a true Indian feast. You will find Chicken Tikka, Palak Paneer, Butter Chicken, Lamb Biryani and Kerala Fish Curry on the menu, along with Mango Lassi, Indian rice pudding and gelato inspired by the flavours of Mumbai (think Mango, fried bread & coriander; Spiced Tea; and Guava, lime and Kashmiri chilli). There’s also an “Indian Feast” ($185) that will feed four, we are eyeing for this ourselves, a true winter soulful feast!
https://www.instagram.com/p/CCHrmGEDR57/
7. Soi 10 by Michael Lambie
Say hello to this new kid on the block! Soi 10 is the latest Asian fusion street food pop up created by acclaimed chef Michael Lambie (formerly Lucy Liu, The Smith, Taxi Dining, Circa & Stokehouse). Since travelling will remain a dream for a while, let our taste buds continue to explore the flavours of Asia with their sensational menu inspired by the streets of Bangkok, Taipei and Shanghai. Think of delicious dumplings, miso eggplant, crispy pork kimchi buns, beef rendang with toasted coconut and more. Ps: Local delivery or a drive-thru the Grosvenor Cellars bottle shop entrance, you get the hint.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CCxOxOOnBfx/
8. Komeyui by Motomu Kuma
To all Japanese food lovers, here’s how to add a little luxe to your Lockdown 2.0 with Komeyui now delivering to your home. Try their Komeyui Kaisen Don featuring uni, wagyu, caviar and grilled foie gras, or their latest invention, the Japaella a.k.a. Japanese style seafood paella! It’s super easy to heat up at home and enjoy. We have listed their Hokkaido style seafood hot pot, Ishikari Nabe and Wagyu on our must-eat for this winter. And, if you’re celebrating something special, go for their beautiful SUSHI CAKE – seriously, can it get any more luxurious than this!? #TreatYoSelf
https://www.instagram.com/p/CA_knPXjgGP/
9. Bistro Vue by Hugh Allen
Our beloved Vue to You is back! Be it a birthday, anniversary or to congratulate yourself for making it through this second lockdown (that is so worthy of a celebration!), take advantage of this fine dining at home offering by Bistro Vue. It’s a super temporary return via the Vue to You platform. Prepared by Vue de Monde’s team, you can now indulge in delicious French-inspired ready-made meals in the comfort of your own home. Available from Friday 24th July for two weeks only, delivery is available for orders within a 10km radius of Vue de monde, or arrange for pick-up.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CDASDYiFlCy/
10. Reverie Cafe by Pierrick Boyer
You gotta end your ISO days right with a Pierrick Boyer cake. The famed Brownie Passion will make a spectacular finale to any day, with its rich brownie base, crunchy praline, tangy passionfruit custard and soft chocolate mousse. If sharing is a must, grab the Petit Fours that comes in a medley of sponge, dark chocolate, blueberry cremeux & jelly jam. No matter what your day has brought to your plate, you are worthy of a sweet ending.
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Practical & Healthy Tips From The Team That’s Been Doing It Since 2010
Firstly, wherever you are in the world, I hope you, your family, and loved ones are safe. While it’s easy to get caught up in the hysteria, we will continue to share positive stories and do what we can to weather this storm with you.
Our intent is to get creative in making this #flattenthecurve life as safe and fun as possible. We’ll kick off by sharing our secrets of how we have successfully worked from home with high focus, effective communication and keeping up with a healthy lifestyle.
As of right now, I’m in Melbourne, busy working with my virtual team as we have been since 2010. I talk to Stephen, Cleo, Alvin, Chit & Dhvani on a daily basis, and our clients on a weekly basis (yes, they take turns!) Our footprint is spread across Australia, Malaysia, India and China. The significant change in our work as a result of this #coronavirus pandemic is that events and upcoming shoots have been rightfully cancelled. So we’re prepared to hunker down at our pretty desks for the next 3-6 months, or as long as needed, to step up with 100% digital production. We are determined to do whatever we can to help flatten this damn curve AND getting ready for a big comeback when life rolls back to normality.
If you have never really worked from home before (a couple of days doesn’t count!) we hope this will help to put things into perspective for you so you too, can enjoy the convenience of work-from-home and save yourself from falling into a new work-life crisis. Remember, working from home can sound like a dream to many, but to do it indefinitely can cause some “cray-cray” if you do not set yourself up for success! So here you go:
1. A Brilliant Morning Routine
How you start your day is so important! If you get tempted with sleeping in or skipping workouts, by all means, give in to these I-Don’t-Want-To-Do-Anything pleasures for 2 days and then set yourself up for a brilliant morning routine because it helps you become productive, effective and generally a nicer person.
I start my mornings watching the sunrise, meditate for 20 mins, a quick check-in with my multiple inboxes whilst I drink my first cup of coffee, followed by 20 mins workout or yoga (check out Alo Moves or SWEAT for easy-to-follow yoga lessons, they have a 14-days and 1-month free trial respectively), shower, get dressed, make and eat a nutritious breakfast with a podcast playing in the background (I’m currently listening to School of Greatness by Lewis Howes), and make my way to the work desk before my team starts. I like to get ahead of everyone!
2. Eat & Snack Healthy
If you have used your working life complaining about how you can’t sustain healthy eating due to the food options available, now you actually have no more excuses! You can make a fresh salad out of your fridge in 5 mins, you can cook a light noodle soup in 15 mins – I love doing this as it means I’m getting my ass off the seat for some moving around and my eyes off the screen. The trick to being successful at this is to buy and store only good food at home, including your drinks and snacks! Keep ready-to-eat options handy so you can reach out to them if you run out of time to cook on any days. Explore some easy and healthy recipes on taste.com.au.
3. Dedicated Work Space
Set up a dedicated spot as your work zone (no-no, not your bed, not your bedroom) and make sure the people you’re living with understand and mus respect that when you are seated there, it means “Do Not Disturb.” We highly encourage you to invest in a good chair, look into ergonomic options. Wear a pair of blue light glasses, I’m wearing OWNDAYS and saw some cool ones from Quay Australia available on The Iconic. It’s essential to keep your desk tidy with some minimal styling – it will help you feel great at work when it feels welcoming. I recommend keeping a small vase with fresh flowers, a small indoor plant (Bunnings is now doing deliveries!) or turn on a diffuser with your favourite essential oil.
4. SHOW UP!
This is as straightforward as the two words say. Choosing to SHOW UP in the right way every day is so important. Remind yourself that this is work, set your energy and intent right, and LOOK right. I know it sounds like a dream come true to wear PJs but if that is making you feel lazy and slow, then DON’T DO IT! Do you know how clothes can make you feel? When you wear something good for the right occasion, you FEEL it! If there’s an important meeting, show up as if it’s an in-person meeting. Maintain your professional image, and your colleagues, clients and employers will feel more confident in your work.
5. Keep The Mat Rolled Out
Yes, this is one of my most prized work-from-home tips. I keep my yoga mat rolled out so, after every conference call, I will have a good 2-3 minutes stretch. If I’m feeling challenged or stressed, the mat is my go-to to reconnect with myself before I tackle the problems at hand, avoiding panic reaction at all costs. Remember that when you’re working from home, you do not have colleagues around to check in with you, so it is important to check in with yourself. Ps: Check out Yin Yoga Mats if you’re in Australia, I’m using Wätl Black, it is so beautiful that I keep wanting to go to it!
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6. Do Not Turn On The BOX
This is a serious one – do not turn on the TV! It is very destructive and you will be consuming information you do not need. Turn it off and keep your focus on your work. You can get to it after hours.
7. Stay Hydrated
We don’t need to elaborate on this but we recommend you use a nice looking glass water bottle so your supply “at desk” lasts longer, and when the bottle looks good, you might just look at it more and subconsciously pick it up to drink more. I love the cups and mugs from Takeawei. If you’re not a fan of H20 in its original version, explore infused tea, flavoured water or drop in some fruit slices.
8. Spread Happiness
Keep the virtual communication casual yet professional. Let your colleagues know that you’re just a click away, call anytime. Try to maintain a schedule of at least one video call a day. Remember that our energy at work is so important and when we can’t see each other in person, some of us might feel unsupported or unheard. Be there for your people and have fun in doing so. Share jokes, playlists, what you make for lunch and maybe a virtual group dance! Oh and your playlist… music can set the RIGHT or WRONG mood, so avoid heavy metal or rock genres if your work requires you to create light beautiful things – choose according to what energy output is required!
9. BONUS TIP
Local Instagram Movement by @freyaesders
If you’re a leader in your team or organisation and you have a culture of after-work or #Friyay drinks, order some wine bottles from NakedWines.com.au and have them delivered to your team members. See, we can still do the things we used to do with working from home and more! Check out how Freya Esders, @freyaesders, did it with her friends.
At Glamorazzi, we are currently going through a massive mindset shift with all our marketing approach – yes, that is keeping us super busy! In light of this pandemic, it seems like a no-brainer for all of our clients across different industries to want to jump and launch virtual products or services, offer deliveries, actively engage with the audience on social media and more. It’s no longer a “maybe”, it’s a “can we start now?”
If you too, find yourself in this position and would like a chat, I’m making myself available for a quick 15 mins brainstorm throughout the week via Instagram or Facebook video call at absolutely no fee, just to spread the love during this time of uncertainty. I know with my 10 years of experience in digital marketing, I will have nuggets of wisdom that will be valuable for you. You can reach out here:
As with all other 1 million pieces of content that are already flooding our feed and inboxes, forgive us for repeating it here just as a friendly reminder:
Stay home. Wash your hands, carry hand sanitsers.Avoid crowd or if inevitable, wear a mask (Tailors of Distinction came out with their washable cloth face mask). Practise #PhysicalDistancing, in Australia, we need to keep at least 1.5m apart from one another.Don’t go to hospitals or medical centres unless it’s an absolute emergency. Remain calm and plan ahead (not stocking up on toilet paper!)Try to get all your groceries in one shop and meal prep, preventing you from making too many unnecessary trips outIf you have a friend or family member in medicine right now, send them a message to tell them you’re thinking of them. It really helps when you’ve tested your “3rd COVID-19 case of the night.”Get the right source of information from WHO, not some BS social media experts. For Australians, see the latest information from the Australian Government Department of Health or call National Coronavirus Helpline 1800 020 080
Let’s rock this #PhysicalDistancing to slow the virus down, remember, you need to act like you already have it! We’ll end this article with a brilliant video to educate yourself on COVID-19 prevention. [...]Read more...
Duria Musang King Snowy Skin Mooncake – 4 Flavours
Are you a durian AND mooncake lover?Or a Musang King fanatic like us?
If you love mooncake and durian, then this is an important subject for you:This is no ordinary mooncake, this is also no ordinary durian.This DIVINE dessert is the king of the king of fruits a.k.a. Musang King Durian, magically crafted into a festival treat!
Duria Musang King Lava Mooncake
Duria Brings Exotic & Festive Foodie Experience to Australia
Discover the Lava & Snowy Skin Mooncake. #very bite guarantees a burst of the most spectacular durian flavour on earth.
Disclaimer: Duria is not a typo, it’s simply “durian without an end (N)”.
My favourite from this series is the Original Snowy Skin. I know durian lovers will agree that we do not need any other flavours intervention (I’m sure the Coffee, Mango & Vanilla will attract other fans). Just handover the thickest and creamiest Musang King, and our lives will be perfect.
Musang King Snowy Skin Mooncake – Mango and Vanilla Flavours
The experience is beyond words so I’ve filmed it for you to see it’s deliciousness. Ps: I wish we have the technology to publish the smell too!2nd half of this video is FUNNY as I introduce this heavenly dessert to the Fijian-Italian Francesca McMillan (Mrs Universe Australia) Kiwi-Aussie family. Leave us a comment if we have made you laughed!
It’s the McMILLANS vs DURIAN! Question is…
Will 6-year-old Eliana McMillan like Musang King Mooncake? 💥🤣💛 [...]Read more...
One Club, Two Locations.
RACV City Club Wine Cellar Private Dining
RACV CLUB – Calling all Lifestyle Entrepreneurs, Travelpreneurs, Bossbabes, Digital Nomads and the likes. Are you looking for a co-working space in the Melbourne city that comes with an amazing fitness centre, pampering day spa, excellent dining and social areas, exclusive 5-star accommodation, and access an incredibly diverse range of activities, events, clubs, classes, services and tours?
RACV Club is the perfect meeting place, from casual catch-ups to more formal celebrations and events. The club has facilities that suit all occasions and the exceptional staff will make you feel at home every time you visit.
RACV City Club (Melbourne)
Conveniently positioned in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD at 501 Bourke Street, the RACV City Club is just a stone’s throw from Melbourne’s retail precinct, Federation Square, theatres and major event venues.
One Spa in RACV Club, Melbourne
With a range of stylish dining venues and entertainment options, it’s the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion or to enjoy a coffee, social drink, business lunch or intimate dinner. The club also hosts special events such as guest chefs and food and wine launches exclusively for members.
Most noteworthy is the RACV Club Mentor Program, which begun with a goal to bring together Club members of different accomplishments, ages and talents to share knowledge and expertise outside the confines of individual workplaces.
A Day at the RACV City Club
The Fitness CentreBreakfast at Club’s BistroLevel 17 Rooftop & Function SpaceThe Members’ Dining Room The LibraryOneSpaWine Cellar – Private Dining Room
The Luxury Room in “The Retreat” on Level 8
The ultimate suite is spacious and spanning up to 142 square metres featuring one king bed, separate bathroom with spa bath, twin basins and a built-in large flat-screen TV with Cable TV channels; a separate living area with a cosy cityscape lookout, spacious working desk and lounge; and a dining area equipped with minibar, Nespresso coffee machine and 24-hour room service. You can also arrange to have an in-room private dinner!
RACV Healesville Country Club
RACV Healesville Club in Yarra Valley
Taking time out to reflect and restart is an important habit of a successful entrepreneur. The RACV Healesville Country Club in the Yarra Valley is the perfect retreat destination for a short break.
Sunset Golf at RACV Healesville
The Country Club is the perfect base to explore all that the region has to offer. Enjoy breakfast at the Terrace Bistro, and head out to explore wineries, galleries, walking trails and more. Return to the club to rejuvenate at the day spa, followed by sunset golf and dinner at Blue Tree Grill.
More RACV Resorts & Reciprocal Clubs
RACV Club Members receive a 50% discount on accommodation rates across all RACV Resorts in Victoria, Tasmania and Queensland. Plus you’ll have access to more than 160 of the finest clubs around the world! (See Reciprocal Clubs)
Join RACV Club – $99/month ends 31st July 2019
There’s nothing more rewarding than a good workout—that is, until you’ve worked out at an RACV Club fitness centre. Being an RACV Club member gets you not only the impressive gym facilities you’d expect, but so much more. Where else can you workout, go for a massage, then splash out on a decadent dinner, in that order, and in one place? Not to mention a host of member-exclusive benefits, all for the price of a gym membership.
For only $99 per month, you’ll get access to the club’s impressive fitness centre plus all the luxuries of Club membership. Your RACV membership card is the key to saving on your next holiday with discounts on popular attractions and events, car hire, cruises, accommodation, Travel Insurance and more. So when looking for a gym, why not ask for more? That’s what being in the RACV Club is all about.
Join the Club today – this special monthly rate ends 31st July 2019! [...]Read more...
Breakfast or Brunch at Bai Long Store, Adelaide
Adelaide’s Next Level Food Scene
Recent trips to the city of churches have been more about good food than good wines.
I was on a mission to explore some latest brunching spots that are kids-friendly with renowned Chinese foodie, Eric Ho, who has been hosting his Oh Rice Foodie lifestyle show for several years.
It didn’t take long for delicious news to reach us – Bai Long Store has started serving brunch on the weekends.
The Modern Asian Brunch
Hosts Oh Rice Foodie (left) and Roslyn Foo (right) at Bai Long Store, Adelaide
The spacious, bright and airy cafe was very welcoming. There is a sense of minimalism in this space which I adore. One look at the menu, we just wanted EVERYTHING – and we almost did!
Congees
Chicken Congee
Congee is a dish deeply rooted in our upbringing. As Singaporean and Malaysian Chinese, we can enjoy a good bowl of hot congee anytime, anywhere. Seeing the Chicken Congee on the menu is like reuniting with the ultimate comfort food for us and it was delicious!
Pumpkin Congee
The Pumpkin Congee is like a bowl of superfood – I do hope this westernised creation can help the locals fall in love with congees.
Noodle, Don’t Noodle?
I recommend that you do noodle. Yes, do it. If you care about great ramen, you will look beyond the noodles and the soup. The Bai Long Ramen ticked all the “good ramen” boxes. The Char Siu and Soy Egg were very well-flavoured.
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The Soba Avo is an interesting dish. The buckwheat noodle with peanut wasabi dressing was served with crunchy tempura tofu cubes and a perfectly poached egg. This is a great dish to enjoy if you’re vegan or gluten-free.
Bowls
Aburi Salmon Bowl
Curry Chicken Bowl
We had the Aburi Salmon Bowl and the Curry Chicken Bowl. As a Malaysian, I’ll always prefer the spicy aromatic style of curry. But the group’s verdict was both bowls were equally delicious!
Desserts Heaven
Dessert – Mini Garden
The Noble Yuzu dessert I tasted at the Dining for Charity by Bai Long fundraising dinner in Oct 2018 was unforgettable. You can guess I was a little too excited to get to the sweet ending of this brunch feast! As everything sounded too good on the dessert menu, the staff had to help us decide which two to share. Yes, I’m counting my calories at this stage!
The Mini Garden was too pretty to eat! We passed the glass through several hands as everyone attempted to capture that “Insta-worthy” shot. The Vietnamese coffee mousse mixed with passionfruit curd was sensational. I wished I didn’t have to share!
Dessert – Ruby Parfait
The Ruby Parfait was our finale and it made a big hit with the kids! The meringue stick, pistachio praline and blue cheese milk crumb added interesting textures, flavours and visual excitement
The Bai Long Store Brunch
Bai Long Store Brunch Facebook Live by Hosts Roslyn Foo & Oh Rice Foodie
We decided on the spot that we should do a Facebook Live to share the amazing modern Asian brunch experience, click here to watch the replay.
Bai Long Store (80 Hutt Street, Adelaide, SA 5000) is open for brunch on Saturdays and Sundays only. For more info, visit their website and follow them on Instagram, tap below!
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bhfm_GvgF4V/
Let us know if you’ve enjoyed your brunch at Bai Long too, leave a comment on our post below 🙂
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All photos credit to Glamorazzi photographer & contributor, Gavin McMillan. Check out Gavin’s previous Adelaide restaurant review! [...]Read more...
Finding good brunch places in Melbourne is not a challenging task. However, a great café in your local area that serves top-notch coffee and scrumptious food to indulge on a Saturday morning is hard to come by.
Perfect Brunch on Saturday morning at St Rose in Essendon, Victoria
I was at Essendon last weekend to visit a friend. She suggested that we go to a cafe nearby and catch up over brunch. As a city girl, I was skeptical about the existence of a good café in the suburban area. The fantastic experience at St Rose debunked this preconception soon after.
St Rose – The New Cool, Casual & Organic It-Spot
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The place is fairly modern, with wooden interior design and welcoming natural lighting. It was quite busy when we arrived. Nevertheless, their service was attentive and they seated us in no time. We ordered coffee first. No comments, other than it was of smooth, great texture and consistency. They even had two types of almond milk on offer, raw and creamy.
Let’s Talk About Food..
Gosh, we were hungry! Everything looked so good on the menu and our indecisiveness was in full swing. Because of that, we asked their friendly staff for recommendations which turned out to be the best decision ever! The food was served promptly. I dug in immediately.
Mediterranean Egg from St Rose, on the Seasonal Special Menu
This one has got to be my favourite. I have been into spicy foods lately and Oh, Man! this Mediterranean Egg dish has a nice kick to it. The eggs were very well poached as the golden yolk was oozing out when I sliced it open with a fork. As my friend Carmel puts it, it has “exotic flavours and spices that tingle your taste buds”.
Salmon & The Rye from St Rose, All Day Menu
Fish normally is my go-to when I dine out. Hard to resist a plate-full of omega-3 and protein. This Salmon & The Rye did not disappoint. The first thing came to my mind with the first bite was “wow this is juicy”. The salmon was cooked flawlessly as well as the egg on top. These two elements were complementary to each other to perfection. The portion size was very generous which was a huge bonus.
Acai Bowl(GF, VG) from St Rose, All Day Menu
Last but not least, a tasty and healthy Açaí bowl. I mean, the rainbow look says it all, it was a total bliss to our eyes and tummy. Find out more about St Rose on Instagram or just tap on the picture below. Most importantly, pop in for a bite when you are in the area and experience for yourself. Can’t wait to return and try this pink latte.
If you prefer to stay in Melbourne inner city for brunch, check out The Boatbuilders Yard for a waterfront experience.
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In November 2015, @Juniperlooza was launched as Australia’s Orginal Gin Festival. The event showcases Gin producers from all over the world. Juniperlooza has become the biggest celebration of Gin ever held in Australia. It is hosted locally in Melbourne at the @Boatbuilders Yard each year. Enjoying a crisp, ice-cold Gin cocktail in the sunshine, overlooking the Yarra River pretty much sets the scene for the event. What more could you possibly ask for?
It’s Gin Time
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Gin is a popular alcoholic spirit all over the world, particularly in London. The production method for Gin is to distil a variety of botanicals. Generally, the predominant flavour for Gin is from the botanical called juniper berries ( Juniperus communis). In addition to Juniper, coriander, citrus peel, cinnamon, almond and liquorice are also frequently used botanicals to distil Gin.
What Makes Juniperlooza A Sold Out Event
https://www.facebook.com/Juniperlooza/videos/2108740052494695/
For someone who is not into spirits, I fell in love with Gin at Juniperlooza. This Gin-pervaded revelry was in full swing on the day (Saturday, February 9, 2019). 21 boutique producers from all over the world. The lineup includes Chase Distillery from the UK, Four Pillars, Cedar Fox, Killara, The Botanist Islay Dry Gin, Martin Millers and many more.
Martin Miller’s Gin – The Smoothest Gin I Have Ever Tasted
The selection of Gin-infused tipples was overwhelming. My eyes were jumping from one booth to another until this rose containing cocktail caught my attention. I followed the rose trail and landed in front of this booth –Martin Millers.
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The staff was very friendly, especially the brand ambassador named Andy. He came to introduce himself, then, kindly gifted my friend and me a beautiful rose each. Soon, Andy offered us a sampling. I was reluctant due to horrible experiences with sprites in the past. My friend Roslyn took the initiative and sampled some. The feedback was very positive. Hence, I changed my mind. One sip down, I could not believe how smooth the Martin Miller’s Gin was. There was no nasty after taste of ethanol in my throat, which was the reason why I disliked a lot of spirits.
“Martin Miller’s Gin is classified as a dry Gin, with a well-balanced cast of botanicals including juniper, the main one, in support, coriander, angelica, lime peel, liquorice root, nutmeg, cassia bark, and Florentine iris”, explained Craig.
What a Gin masterpiece! Martin Millers has changed my perception of Gin for the better. I would definitely give Gin another try when I go out next, perhaps other spirits too. In fact, I ordered one right there on the spot, and I loved it.
Food, Performers and More
Fruity Trio entertainment at Juniperlooza 2019
In addition to the fantastic Gin selections, the Boatbuilders Yard kitchen supplied a parade of delicious bites to be enjoyed with the drinks.
The music was on point as live DJ tunes were spinning right through the event. Plus, every now and then the roving performance artists came to do their rounds and make silly moves to the beat just to crack everyone up.
Food served by the Boadbuilders Yard kitchen
Juniperlooza 2019 was a blast. I am looking forward to seeing what Juniperlooza has got to bring in 2020. If you’d like to come along next year, subscribe to the Juniperlooza e-news to get your early presale tickets, so you don’t miss out!
If you would like to know more about The Boatbuilders Yard, see our previous foodies experience here. [...]Read more...
![Mount Hua [Huà Shān 華山] – One of the Most Dangerous Yet Beautiful Hikes in the World](https://www.glamorazzi.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Huashan-1-by-Ruslan-Khasanov-e1548571380685.jpg)
The famed Mount Hua is situated in the city of Huayin in Shaanxi province, about 120 kilometres east of Xi’an. It is near the Ordos Loop section of the Yellow River basin. Mt Hua is the western mountain of the Five Great Mountains of China, and has a long history of religious significance. This is a must-visit for hikers, for magnificent geological views.
Mount Huashan is home to several influential Taoist temples, where many emperors of past dynasties took part in Taoist activities, making it a holy land of Taoism. Daoists believed that in the mountain lives the god of the underworld. Huashan was an important place for immortality seekers, as many herbal Chinese medicines are grown and powerful drugs were reputed to be found there.
The route up to Mount Hua is one of the most dangerous hikes in the world. Its five peaks are the representative attractions and each has its distinctive charms:
East Peak (Facing Sun Peak)
East Peak climb takes 4 to 6 hours and is the best to enjoy the sunrise. The Immortal’s Palm Peak, ranked one of the Eight Scenic Wonders of the Xi’an. It’s natural rock veins look like a giant palm-print.
South Peak (Landing Wild Geese Peak)
The South Peak (2,154 meters) is the monarch among the Five Sacred Mountains of China. The surrounding landscapes are luxuriantly green; the Yellow River wanders far below and everything seems small. Legend has it that the wild geese often landed at South Peak, giving the area its name.
West Peak (Lotus Flower Peak)
West Peak is the most elegant, with very high cliffs standing erect with an altitude of 2,086.6 meters. The Cuiyun Palace has a huge rock looking like a lotus flower in its view and therefore named the Lotus Flower Peak.
North Peak (Cloud Terrace Peak)
North Peak (1,614 meters) is famous with precipitous cliffs on all sides, making it look like a flat terrace in the clouds, hence the name Cloud Terrace Peak. The Ear-Touching Cliff is the fourth precipitous path where visitors can climb up only by pressing an ear close to the cliff. Trees are luxuriantly green, creating a good rest spot halfway up the North Peak.
Middle Peak (Jade Maiden Peak)
Middle Peak is in the centre of all peaks and clings to East Peak. Legend has it that the daughter of Qin Mugong (569 – 621 BC) loved a man who was good at playing Chinese tung-hsiao. She gave up the royal life to cultivate her spirituality at the Jade Maiden Temple, hence the name Jade Maiden Peak. The Rootless Tree and Sacrificing Tree are two other scenic spots with beautiful stories that add to the supernatural atmosphere of Middle Peak.
The talented photographer Ruslan Hasanov’s incredible scenic shots of China has inspired me to look deeper into its regional destinations.
View more of his amazing work:
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For more China travel inspiration, read the adventures of travellingcouple, Searching For Us
If you visit Nanjing in winter, you must look for Bao’s street barbecue!
[...]Read more...
Melbourne’s Best Waterfront Experience
Get down to South Wharf this summer and experience The Boatbuilders Yard, the waterfront bar & kitchen on the Yarra River.
As a local, I have been enjoying coffees and breakfast at The Boatbuilders Yard for several years.
A post shared by Glamorazzi (@deglamorazzi) on Mar 15, 2017 at 2:00pm PDT
The quiet mornings, breezy open space with caring staff who often reminded me of how many lattes I have had (4 a day can be a worry), the human touches made the place feels like home to me. The crackling fireplace is my favourite spot during winter.
A post shared by Roslyn Foo 欣 (@roslynfoo) on Jul 10, 2017 at 8:34pm PDT
Eating Out with Adam Bilsy
Then I thought it’s time for a change. I brought #YesYouCan Ambassador and Gold Coast radio host Adam Bilsy to experience a true Melbourne evening. The Boatbuilders Yard has always been a busy venue later in the day and especially on the weekends. Their menu boasts fresh ingredients with funky presentation, filled with options for vegetarian, gluten-free and dairy-free. The small size and sharing style dishes are perfect for a sleeved stomach to enjoy.
Cocktails Got The Party Started
I must mention Shay who welcomed us and brought us to our table on the outdoor deck. Her amazing service has certainly brought a lot more fun to our experience.
I have always known that the Boatbuilders Yard has one of Victoria’s largest number of tap beer varieties. However, Shay got us got started with a cocktail each and we didn’t look back! The Passionfruit Splice made of frozen Absolut Vanilla, passionfruit and pineapple was the clear winner. The Freezling came second for me – it’s a cool cocktail but I still prefer to enjoy a glass of Riesling on its own. The Hibiscus Spritz added a happy colour on our table but the Passionfruit Splice won all our hearts.
The Good Food
For me, it’s all about good food when you’re in Melbourne. So to ensure my special guest get to taste as many dishes as possible, we’ve ordered 6 starters and a side to share.
First up, the sweet and sour gochujang Chicken Drumettes with sesame seeds and pickled daikon got the two boys’ approval. It didn’t last too long on the plate.
Next is my favourite dish – the Soft Shell School Prawns served with chilli jam, lime kewpie mayo and togarashi. I convinced Adam to try one, and yes – we eat the head, tail and everything, just like how you eat a soft shell crab. I’m glad he loved it!
And who is in for Haloumi or Fries? Well, what about the Haloumi Fries served with beetroot tahini, sprinkled with black sesame and spring onion? It was a crowd pleaser with the bring pink sauce making the dish look rather sexy!
The Heirloom Tomatoes was my new favourite dish. It’s simple and fresh, with burrata and fresh basil, anyone could make it at home but the black garlic dressing made an impact. If you want an unpretentious dish, this is it.
The feast continued with the Zucchini Escabeche with smoked almond cream, some falafel crumb and saffron pickled onions; the Kingfish Ceviche with Aji Amarillo (bright orange chilli from Peru) in lime dressing with sweet potato and corn nuts; and the Charred Octopus with salsa rosso, kipfler potato, nduja, kalamata and lemon.
I knew from the start that I would not get away from the dessert calories. The boys ordered the Macadamia Parfait and the classic Boaties Sundae, it was a perfect ending!
The Good Vibes
The DJ was spinning through the entire evening, totally in his groove. The vibrant atmosphere and attentive waiting staff weaving through happy guests, we had a very enjoying summer evening soaking up the warm Yarra River breeze.
Adam Bilsy made a vlog of his South Wharf experience, watch here.
With this, I will continue to enjoy morning lattes at The Boatbuilders Yard as well as adding it to my weekend hangout destination.
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The Space
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The Boatbuilders Yard is one of Melbourne’s premier waterfront venues boasting the charm and culturalheritage of Melbourne’s famous Maritime precinct with a modern twist as its centrepiece – the originalhistoric shed.
A post shared by The Boatbuilders Yard (@boatbuildersyard) on Jan 4, 2018 at 2:27pm PST
Check out their function space too, there are not many waterfront venues in Melbourne that could hold 1200 standing! #TheBoatbuildersYard
A post shared by The Boatbuilders Yard (@boatbuildersyard) on Sep 18, 2018 at 9:58pm PDT [...]Read more...
The Travelling Lovers.
We are Kim and Adrian from New Zealand. We met in 2012 during our final year of university. After six months of dating, we moved in together and gave the 9-5 life ago. Unfortunately, we soon realized that lifestyle wasn’t for us so we decided to set off overseas together in search of something different = Travelling.
Here’s the thing though – we had no idea what to do or where to go. After searching high and low online we eventually agreed to do the most common thing people do when travelling abroad: Teach English.
Teaching and Roaming The World Together
We both settled on China and worked in various roles within education over the past four years. The experience was both eye-opening and life-changing. We were able to get out of our comfort zone, try different things, make new friends and travel to other parts of China. It was during our time here that we developed a deeper passion for travel. As expats, we were granted more holidays than we were used to having and we took advantage of every opportunity.
We loved exploring the world so much that we decided to set off yet again and create our own story together.
Adventures Over Financial Security
Oh, by the way, we’d be lying if we said we aren’t terrified. Choosing to leave our jobs and get out of our comfort zone to pursue our passion is legitimately scary. No job, no set home, tight budget, and the unknown. All these things combine to make one messy plate of self-doubt for people who want to chase their dreams, so most never do. For us, it was the same way for a very long time.
We have spent the last three months travelling around South East Asia. There’s something indescribable about these countries, we love everything from the beautiful people and their culture to the amazingly flavorous cuisine!
One Advice = TRAVEL.
Our biggest advice to anyone seeking adventure and self-discovery would be, TRAVEL! Our lives get so busy that it is important we take time for ourselves, travel can also be a great way to give back to local communities. We’ve sacrificed a lot to be able to do what we do, and its totally possible for anyone to do it too. Save a little each week, plan ahead on tickets and accommodation, do a work exchange or volunteer for a cause important to you and you’ll be amazed how far your money can really stretch.
We hope to inspire others to travel the world and open their minds to what’s out there. To connect with others and share our own culture and values. We truly believe people are always searching for a better version of themselves in one way or another, and in our case, we hope to educate and inspire those along our journey as we go searching for us.
Roaming the world together,
Kim and Adrian
@searchingforus [...]Read more...
When I first started taking my photography more seriously, I knew I wanted to shoot beautiful images of rainforests and waterfalls. A couple of years back, I purchased my first set of neutral density filters with the hope of achieving textured water as it cascade over rocks. My early attempts were certainly an improvement on just a ‘point and shoot’, but with trail and error, I was driven to push my creativity further. Soon, I realised that there was a lot more than just turning up at a location, set up the camera and press the shutter!
We had been on the road for a few weeks as a family, taking a holiday up the east coast of Australia towards the Sunshine Coast. I was keen to continue seeking out rainforests and waterfalls, and I did a bit of ‘googling’ around places on the Coast. Having visited the Coast many times, I wanted to find somewhere we hadn’t been before. In my search results, was Buderim Forest Park.
Staying Noosa, it was around 30 minutes south and with the sun rising much earlier than Melbourne, I knew it would be an early start if I had any chance of capturing some great images. The first few weeks the weather was beautiful, blue skies and warm, but the forecast for the following Monday looked great – overcast, cloudy.
Buderim Forest Park has two entrances, one close to Serenity Falls (300m from the car park) in Quorn Close; and the lower entrance off Lindsay Road via Harry’s Lane (1.3km from the car park). Both have their own advantages, depending on your experience, fitness level and time. It’s important to note, the shorter entry (Quorn Close) to the Falls, has many steps and is steep – certainly don’t attempt in significantly wet weather.
Taking the Harry’s Lane entrance, you stroll through the forest, along the raised boardwalk, takes you across the Martin Creek towards a palm grove at the base of the rainforest. It’s a beautiful walk, with the sounds of the creek, birds and as I read once, the rainforest is truly a place to chill. The boardwalk will take you about half the way, before it becomes a track along the creek (not suitable for prams/wheelchairs). To reach the Falls, you will need to cross the creek along the rocks which again for most of the year is probably fine, but not during significant rain.
It is along this part, where you truly appreciate the beauty and tranquility. Being alone with your thoughts – watching the creek slowly meander passed, the fresh, crisp air and being in awe, of how lucky we are to be here.
Serenity Falls themselves drop around 30m into a pool, before cascading again several times over rocks into Martin Creek. With care, and when not in full flow, you can move close to them, to experience a waterfall behind. If you haven’t done this before, this is a safe place to do so and gives you a different angle to sit, watch and chill.
This unspoiled native rainforest is surrounded by private residences, and is a true gem of the Sunshine Coast. The locals are lucky to have this at their doorstep, so let’s preserve it for everyone – respect the environment, take your rubbish home and leave only your footprints.
For more information about the Buderim Forest Park, visit www.Buderim.com
For more Glamorazzi lifestyle, travel and cultural discoveries, follow us on Instagram & Facebook! [...]Read more...
The Discovery
I visited Almina’s on Gawler Place for the first time with my family. This business has been around for over 35 years. We were delighted with the freshness of the Lebanese food. The dishes were well presented and tasted delicious (even my daughter says so!)
The (amazing) platters make for a really great experience as sharing them with a group made it a lot more social than just having one dish per person.
The platter we shared was the Traditional Lebanese Breakfast which had the Foul Medammes – fava beans cooked in spices and tomato. It was surprisingly tasty with the flatbreads and the Fattah was good too. We added some poached eggs which were cooked perfectly, so my daughter was happy to be able to dip the flatbread in the yolk! #yolkporn
We finished our breakfast with a Turkish coffee and some baklava. They have a quite an impressive range of sweets from just $2 per piece!
The friendly staff made our experience very enjoyable. Almina’s is well worth your visit if you’re in the Adelaide city. Or you can order their treats online – how cool!
Think exotic dishes served fast and fresh! See you again soon, Almina’s!
Follow Glamorazzi’s Discoveries on Instagram @DeGlamorazzi
Business Details
Almina’s On Gawler
Website: www.alminasongawler.com.au
Address: 99 Gawler Place Adelaide 5000 [...]Read more...
Since the outpour of tributes for the legend Paul Bocuse, it seems like a perfect time to dine at Philippe – by Philippe Mouchel. He is notably Melbourne’s favourite French chef who trained with the great Paul Bocuse.
Photo source: www.philipperestaurant.com.au
The Chef
We have had the honour to work with Philippe Mouchel at several Dining For Charity and Cooking For Charity events in recent years, therefore we have an immense respect and affection towards this local culinary icon.
“From an early age, I learnt that cooking was a pleasure. Where cooking is a pleasure, eating will be, too.” Philippe Mouchel.
Chef Mouchel has his unique way of interpreting formal French cooking. This skill most probably arises from his experience of working in Southeast Asia, especially Japan. His experience is of many countries and many cuisines, yet he is just as at home with traditional as contemporary cooking.
Photo source: www.philipperestaurant.com.au
“My mission is to serve food that people understand, and that is always interesting to eat.” Philippe Mouchel.
The Restaurant, A Melbourne’s Treasure
A small blue sign just off Collins Street led us to Philippe’s front door. We walked down the steps, admired the rotisserie and were brought to our table in the middle of a nouveau bistro-style dining room. The avant-garde zinc “raw bar” was on the left (shucking $2 per oyster fresh to order!) and a busy yet orderly kitchen equipped with charcoal ovens was straight ahead. The restaurant was filled with a sensational aroma from the roasts.
Philippe’s Menu
The well-crafted menu showcases traditional yet innovative French cooking that features high quality seasonal and ethically sourced local produce. Philippe’s clear vision for the restaurant shines through, “I want the dishes to be a gourmand, generous and affordable”. The wine list showcases premium wines by the glass (petit, larger or carafe), featuring a range of new and old-world offerings with an emphasis on all things French.
The French Dinner
Our feast started with a welcome appetizer – Tomato Gazpacho courtesy of Chef Mouchel.
Entrees
For entrees, we selected the quail & foie gras parfait, red currant & orange jelly, toasted brioche followed by a pâté croûte, pork, veal, foie gras, pistachios, mushrooms, pickled vegetables. We also indulged in the signature escargots, garlic & parsley butter, croûtons. The highlight for us was the parfait, it went so smoothly with the brioche, we wanted more!
The Mains
The aroma of the roast had us ordered the duck breast rotissoire, figs, turnips, confit duck leg “Parmentier”. Chef Craig Dowling had the bannockburn chicken rôtissoire, mushrooms, potatoes, natural jus. The duck was outstanding, we could not fault this dish and the serving was huge that I think it can serve 3 people! The meat was perfectly cooked, the sauce was simply divine, I could somewhat taste some Sichuan peppercorn or similar spice in it.
The Desserts
Three spectacular desserts concluded our feast: Michel Cluizel chocolate caramel fondant and vanilla bean ice cream; lemon vacherin with citrus crème glacée and the poached peach, ginger, hibiscus granité, crème légère courtesy of Chef Philippe Mouchel for Dion Daniel’s birthday! As usual, I dug very happily into the chocolate fondant, remembering the same dish I have had from Chef Philippe Mouchel’s previous restaurants as well as a version of the same recipe by Ironchef Ikuei Arakane – which shows the true brotherhood amongst the chefs when they share their perfect recipes with one another! In addition, I have fallen in love with the lemon vacherin, the burst of citrus was somehow exciting yet graceful on the palette. If you prefer a light refreshing dessert to end a big meal, this will be a great option!
Photo source: www.philipperestaurant.com.au
Happy Foodies Ending
In conclusion, patrons can enjoy good food based on time-honoured recipes from France. This is what we will do on our next visit, to sit at the “La table des chefs” and watch the chefs prepare 5-course menu at the “pass”!
We cannot wait to return, what a spectacular French dinner we have savoured. Thanks to the team at Philippe Restaurant – we had a sensational dining experience!
For more information and to book, visit Philippe Restaurant.
All photos (other than mentioned) & InstaStory by @roslynfoo
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![Bao’s BBQ in Nanjing [宝记烧烤，南京]](https://www.glamorazzi.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Bao’s-BBQ-in-Nanjing-宝记烧烤，南京-11.jpg)
As the season in Nanjing changes between Summer to Autumn, this beautiful 2nd tier city of China turns to cooler evenings and it calls for the local’s favourite supper – street barbecue and beers!
Living Like A Local In Nanjing
Our local friends brought us to their neighbourhood and hence we skipped the touristy game. We wandered down the streets filled with bustling restaurants.
It seems like most shops are either selling BBQ or some sort of noodles only heard of in China. Most interesting of all is to see a milk tea vendor at nearly every corner, the locals are deeply in love with it!
We arrived at Bao’s BBQ with the sign that says 宝记烧烤 (watch the video because you won’t see its English name until you walk into its 2nd restaurant two doors down).
The food comes from the original shop where a couple of hunks sizzle away at the shopfront. The smoke that fills the air makes you drool from across the street. Finally, after waited for 15 minutes, we got a table in the 2nd restaurant because it is newer and cleaner.
We were given a sealed plastic bag each that contains a pair of clean chopstick, a pack of tissues and a wet towel. Neat！
The ordering system was a paper menu with a pen to tick what we want. Since it was all written in Chinese, we gladly left the decision making to our local friends. And hell yeah, they do have icy cold beers!
The biggest problem we have encountered since arriving in Nanjing is to find most local restaurants do not chill their beers. If you cannot take warm beer (like us), you will probably consider this a life-threatening issue too. While in China, drink like a Chinese – go cheap and ask for the local brews, they are as great!
And The Feast Begin
Since the bbq skewers cannot be rushed, we ordered some cold dishes to get us started. We love the steamed peanuts and garlic cucumber.
Another great starter is the local seafood, such as the pipis and the razor clams. Skip the grilled oysters, the local produce doesn’t taste great!
The super delicious skewers arrived bunch by bunch and placed onto the silver tray, coated in cumin and chilli powder.
We love chicken wings, pork belly, squid and do not go past those amazing lamb! If you’re adventurous, try the pork soft bones, goose giblets, duck veins and chicken liver.
At last, the only thing we were not brave enough to try was the pig’s brain – maybe next time!
All in all, what an amazing experience! The wet tissues turned out to be the most useful. We walked out feeling smokingly satisfied.
To locate this shop, download the app “Da Zhong Dian Ping” or in Chinese, 大众点评. Then copy and paste 宝记烧烤 and search in Nanjing, you will see a few stores, I think anyone will be equally delicious! [...]Read more...
A peaceful hideaway from the hustle and bustle of Bali. Wapa di Ume Resort is a boutique resort in Ubud with rice fields as its centrepiece, placing you truly at one with nature.
The Private Villa
Di Ume Suite boasts a luxury natural finished 60sqm suite on the second level with a deck overlooking the agricultural mountain. There is a private bathroom with separate sunken bath, complete with a working desk, mosquito net covering the king size bed as well as a fruit basket that gets refilled daily. Surprisingly, the villa was spotless with no insects!
Balinese Breakfast
The complimentary breakfast featured both Balinese and western dishes. Of course, we went for the Balinese options. Indeed, the flavours were sensational, cooked with wholesome ingredients.
The Open Stage
Dining with performance used to be exclusively for the king to hosts guests at religious events. Now, we too, can sit under the stars overlooking the rice field, and enjoy a Balinese dinner cooked by a local chef. We watched traditional dances performed on the open stage.
Floating Bale
While exploring the luxurious resort land, we see Floating Bale decorated with candles and exotic flowers. This is the perfect spot to have an intimate five-star service dinner, especially for a marriage proposal! The warm tropical breeze and panoramic view of the rice paddies over sunset make the evening very romantic.
Ume Spa
A luxury three-level spa in the famous Wapa style offers a selection of treatments with natural oils and exotic perfume blends. The Indonesian herbs and spices add to the rich traditional nature of their treatments for total well being. In addition, the well-trained therapists explained each step of the treatments carefully. We settled into a peaceful state as soon as we entered the private room surrounded by the rainforest. Furthermore, you can take a dip in the outdoor natural whirlpool.
Yoga Centre – FREE
A spacious upper-level yoga room overlooking the lush green palm trees and panoramic rice terraces offers daily morning yoga. Yoga instructor Ibu Ketut teaches the ancient art of classical yoga, focusing on techniques to still our minds and strengthen the body using posture, breathing, meditation, and relaxation. The classes are suitable for beginner to advanced yogis.
Ubud Rice Fields Trekking – FREE
From time to time, a Wapa di Ume staff will guide resort guests on a walking trail explore deeper into the village, to see the local’s way of life and to discover beautiful rice fields. This video says it all.
MR WAYAN Balinese Cuisine
Mr Wayan restaurant serves up authentic Balinese cuisine originated from the volcanic island of Bali. It is one of the most complex cuisines in the world using an incredible variety of spices.
To sum up our experience, Wapa di Ume is the perfect destination for Wanderlust-ers as well as an intimate wedding venue. The lush, idyllic paddy fields, with swaying palm trees and the tranquil sounds of the flowing river, makes the trip unforgettable.
WAPA DI UME RESORT & SPA – BALI
Jl. Suweta, Br. Bentuyung, Ubud 80571,
Gianyar, Bali – Indonesia
+62 361 973178 or reservation@wapadiume.com [...]Read more...
After a few fun events with 2 Michelin Star Chef Kentaro Chen, I was very attracted to his humbleness and humour, in addition to his Japanese work ethics and dedication to spread the Chen’s family Sichuan (or Szechwan) cuisine legacy throughout Asia and beyond. It seems a blessing for my recent Dining For Charity event (Asia In SA held on 30th September 2016) that Chef Kentaro Chen’s first ever restaurant outside of Japan, the famous Shisen Hanten in Singapore, was awarded 2 Michelin Stars in mid 2016. Adelaideans are really lucky to have another Michelin starred chef volunteering his time to visit and cook in the city of churches, after the momentous inaugural event in 2015 where we featured the Demon Chef Alvin Leung.
I had to make a trip, not because Shisen Hanten received 2 Michelin stars, but because I have heard ravings about the legendary London Roast Duck and I missed that sensational Mapo Tofu that Chef Kentaro Chen cooked in Melbourne and Adelaide. Located on the 35th floor of the glamorous Mandarin Orchard building, the restaurant’s view overlook the stunning Singapore city, I brought 4 friends with me and we were welcomed by the team led by Head Chef Yuki.
Our menu has been set by Chef Yuki, no doubt I told Chef Kentaro Chen that I will eat anything he wants me to have. We started the degustation with the appetizer of the day which includes Shisen Hanten Signature Cold Steamed Chicken with Sesame Sauce and Marinated Jellyfish with Pickled Vegetables, Szechwan-style.
Next up was a dish I really enjoyed, the 云白肉 Sliced Steamed Pork with Chilli Oil – the pork slices were so delicate, together with the Szechwan spicy oil, it’s a match made in heaven. As per its Chinese name, it certainly is a dish above the clouds for me.
The main course got to be the famous 伦敦烧鸭 London Roast Duck – I can’t remember the last time I had such a delicious duck cooked in Chinese style, the meat was so tender and juicy, the herbal fragrant and flavours were incredibly sexy in my mouth!
Next dish was 干烧明虾 Stir-fried Prawns with Chilli Sauce, I liked the mildly spicy sauce and wished the prawns were fresh and in shells, not frozen. I must say I’m very particular about the seafood I eat, it’s gotta be the freshest to retain that flavour from the sea. I do want to rave about the fried buns, I’ve been secretly in love with them for decades now, and I can’t believe they are available in such petite size, I almost felt like they were made specially for me! (If you’re on a low carb diet, you’ll know what I mean.)
You can’t go to a fine Chinese restaurant without enjoying a steam fish, I was happy that Chef Yuki included 笋壳 Marble Goby (a.k.a. Soon Hock) Steamed with Superior Soy Sauce. The waitress made a demonstration of slicing the whole fish into small portions for us, so we can eat gracefully – top service! I love the julienned spring onion and coriander garnish, soak it in the sauce and it’s to die for!
And the moment we were all waiting for, 陳麻婆豆腐 Chen’s Mapo Doufu! If you have never tried this authentic Chinese dish in your life, it’s simply a stir-fried tofu in hot Szechwan pepper-flavoured meat sauce. You can get this at almost any Chinese restaurant in Australia but honestly, no one makes the real stuff here and far from THIS Chen’s recipe. Ever since I tasted this dish for my appearance at the Ironchef Melbourne dinner in February 2015, I have not attempted to order Mapo Tofu at any restaurants since. It’s the one dish that I can get to the bottom of the rice bowl – it’s that good (or bad!)
To finish off the feast, we had the 杨枝甘露 Chilled Mango Purée with Sago and Pomelo topped with Sherbet. Yum, perfect ending.
Upon our departure, Chef Yuki waited for us at the reception, bowed in the humble Japanese manner that I absolutely admire, we took a few snaps and he sent us off at the lift.
Chen’s signature dishes emphasised the seven basic flavours that give Szechwan food that distinct boldness – sour, pungent, hot, sweet, bitter, aromatic, and salty. This amazing rising star Chef Chen Kentaro is the son of the Szechwan Sage – Chen Kenichi, grandson of the Japan’s Father of Szechwan cuisine – Chen Kenmin.
Visit Shisen Hanten Singapore’s website for further information and to make a reservation. [...]Read more...
Quality Okayama Japan project returns this year after it’s introduction in 2016, once again showcasing 5 excellent sake master brewers and Bizen ware. The one-day exhibition was held on Monday 16th January 2017 at Cumulus Up in Melbourne. The Okayama culture is entwined with Omachi rice, water, soil, and fire. It is blessed with natural conditions such as three clean large rivers that flow from northern forested areas, and a temperate inland coastal climate. It also has some of the oldest history of rice production, dating back to 3500 years!
Okayama is known as the Land of Rice and also the Land of Sake. 3 criteria to make good sake are good rice, good skills, and good water. In the ancient word “Harima Fudoki” from the Nara period (8th century), Okayama is noted as the birthplace of sake. Omachi rice was discovered in this land over 100 years ago. A high level of craftsmanship for brewing delicious sake has been fostered in this area, historically and now. The result of this is a fragrant Omachi rice sake that has a mellow taste, perfect for the delicate Japanese cuisine, contemporary western food as well as cheese and chocolate.
Bizen ware is a traditional Japanese pottery where the unglazed ware is put into a wood burning kiln for 10-15 days to acquire a natural ash glaze and subdued sharings. The finished product is simple with the clay being exposed very directly. However, this does not happen by chance, the process is actually painstaking. Clay taken from the rice paddies or mountain must go through many processes over a long period of time before it is touched by flames until it reaches 1250 degree celcius. This is why Bizen ware is known as the art of Earth and Fire, the beauty of Bizen ware is thought to be born from the union of nature and man. The kiln loading and firing techniques have been passed from generation to generation, some techniques have been lost over hundreds of years, and some new techniques were developed by modern potters. 3 standout characteristics of a Bizen ware is the Hidasuki, Goma and Botamochi patterns seen around the ware.
Renowned Sommelier Masahiko Iga conducted a sommeliers exclusive Okayama sake tasting session, around 30 professional guests experienced the finest quality of Omachi rice sake and introduced to 5 master brewers from Tsuji Honten, Itana Shuzo Honten, Shiragiku Shuzo, Kikuchi Sake Brewery and Miyashita Sake Brewery.
Here is a gallery to remind us of 2016’s Quality Okayama project debut in Melbourne.
This project is a collaboration with the traditional products of Okayama in western Japan, brought to you by Tryber Pty Ltd. Click here for more info. [...]Read more...
