Me-Gal restaurant – a harbourside dining experience within Sydney’s Lower North Shore

Me-Gal restaurant, located within the elegant Wildlife Retreat at Taronga, will open to the public for the first time on Thursday 30 March 2023. Located in a harbourside enclave on Sydney’s Lower North Shore, with sweeping views of Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, and the city skyline, Me-Gal offers a dining experience that promisesContinue reading “Me-Gal restaurant – a harbourside dining experience within Sydney’s Lower North Shore”

2023 NSW SOMMELIER’S WINE LIST AWARDS SUPPORTING LOCAL FOR A BRIGHTER FUTURE

The 2023 NSW Sommelier’s Wine List Awards is now OPEN for entries, closing on 20th April 2023 This free-to-enter competition is open to any sommelier or bar/beverage manager from a Sydney or regional NSW venue that has created a wine list which includes wines from local winemakers, highlighting the quality and diversity of wines beingContinue reading “2023 NSW SOMMELIER’S WINE LIST AWARDS SUPPORTING LOCAL FOR A BRIGHTER FUTURE”

Enjoy Lobster & Bottomless Fries at Botswana Butchery Sydney For Under $30!

The ultimate lunch special available every day Botswana Butchery Sydney is set to serve up a luxurious lunchtime special, offering diners a delicious half-lobster with unlimited fries for just $29.95pp from 27th March. Enjoyed whilst taking in the sights from Botswana Butchery’s balcony or rooftop seating, the affordable yet decadent seafood fare is the perfectContinue reading “Enjoy Lobster & Bottomless Fries at Botswana Butchery Sydney For Under $30!”

The Australian food community rallies as 6.2 million children in need of urgent help

The humanitarian crisis after Syria and Türkiye’s earthquake destruction has left more than 850,000 children homeless and millions of others needing food, supplies, emergency medical and psychosocial assistance. On the ground in Syria for more than 50 years and Türkiye for more than 70, humanitarian aid organisation UNICEF is working to provide everything from hygieneContinue reading “The Australian food community rallies as 6.2 million children in need of urgent help”

A Parisian brasserie bringing the timeless charm of classic French dining to Surry Hills

Restaurateur Andrew Becher, owner and operator of successful European inspired restaurants Franca and Parlar, will open his third venue, Armorica Grande Brasserie on Thursday 20 April in Surry Hills. Armorica, a 150-seat restaurant that draws on classic Parisian Brasserie culture in a redefined contemporary way, is located on Crown St, Surry Hills in the siteContinue reading “A Parisian brasserie bringing the timeless charm of classic French dining to Surry Hills”

Level up that mid-week meeting with these luxurious and affordable express lunch specials

With the 2023 work year well under way, most of us are finding ourselves back in the office 5 days a week. Lucky for us, here to alleviate our midweek cravings are a few of Sydney’s best express lunch offerings. Who said we’re only allowed to eat at our favourite restaurants on special occasions? ExpressContinue reading “Level up that mid-week meeting with these luxurious and affordable express lunch specials”

Chophouse presents exclusive ‘Meat with Matt’ event featuring renowned chefand restaurateur, Matt Moran

On Tuesday 28 March at 6pm, Sydney steak institution Chophouse will host an intimate meat workshop with highly regarded restaurateur and chef Matt Moran and Moran Family Farm Manager Brendan Kleinschafer. Following sold-out meat masterclasses in previous years, the new format ‘Meat with Matt’ promises an entertaining night, delving into the special relationship between producerContinue reading “Chophouse presents exclusive ‘Meat with Matt’ event featuring renowned chefand restaurateur, Matt Moran”

Unique Dinner Event at Manly Pavilion, Wednesday 5th April Includes paired Patrón cocktails and a Patrón tasting experience

Popular waterside venue, Manly Pavilion has partnered with Patrón to offer an exclusive dinner event on Wednesday 5th April, hosted by Patrón Global Brand Ambassador Alex Godfrey. The event will include a Margarita on arrival, a delicious three-course dinner curated by Boathouse Group Executive Chef James Brownrigg with each dish paired with a Patrón cocktail,Continue reading “Unique Dinner Event at Manly Pavilion, Wednesday 5th April Includes paired Patrón cocktails and a Patrón tasting experience”

The Autumn Festival has Arrived at Mayfield Garden with the return of Glamping!

Enjoy the ultimate Autumnal getaway with an extraordinary kaleidoscope of colours, glamping and picnics at the stunning Mayfield Garden Mayfield Garden has announced that its Autumn Festival will return this year bigger and better than ever before – with the return of onsite glamping meaning guests can once again stay, play and eat at Australia’sContinue reading “The Autumn Festival has Arrived at Mayfield Garden with the return of Glamping!”

Espresso Martini Festival Coming Up In Over 200 Venues This MonthCelebrating The Espresso Martini Across Australia

Pubs across Australia will be celebrating one of the country’s favourite cocktails with the Espresso Martini Festival from 13th–19th March, where Grey Goose Espresso Martinis will be offered at over 200 venues all day, every day. The Espresso Martini Festival is being held at ALH Hotels venues and will be a week of celebrating theContinue reading “Espresso Martini Festival Coming Up In Over 200 Venues This MonthCelebrating The Espresso Martini Across Australia”

What’s On at Hunter St. Hospitality Restaurants & Bars in March

Alice – Resident VibesLa Fiesta Sound System takes up residency at Alice every Thursday, from March 9th. Drop by for a weekly fix of eclectic beats with DJ, live afro percussion, and sax incorporating nu-disco, soul, jazz and Latin elements. Doors open at 5pm; the groove session kicks in from 6pm to 11pm. There isContinue reading “What’s On at Hunter St. Hospitality Restaurants & Bars in March”

Conversation with the critics (Part 6 – anonymity, integrity & opinion)

In the sixth episode of this ongoing series, experienced restaurant critics Brian Steel, Jeremy Ryland and Dane Richards discuss the aspects of anonymity, integrity and opinion in the review process. Watch previous episodes: Conversation with The Critics (part 5 – Credibility & Expectations) Conversation with The Critics (part 4 – The Reviewer) Conversation with TheContinue reading “Conversation with the critics (Part 6 – anonymity, integrity & opinion)”

Aria announces new Executive Chef, Thomas Gorringe

Matt Moran and Solotel announce the appointment of Thomas Gorringe as the new Executive Chef of Aria, having previously held the role of Head Chef at Pier One’s hatted restaurant, The Gantry. Gorringe will take over the reins from Joel Bickford, as he departs for a new role.  Of the appointment, Moran says: “We’re thrilledContinue reading “Aria announces new Executive Chef, Thomas Gorringe”

Entries open for the 2021 Royal Melbourne Wine Awards

A new trophy in honour of an Australian wine industry icon, and innovative new state-based trophies lead a number of changes as The Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria (RASV) announce that entries are now open for the 2021 Royal Melbourne Wine Awards (RMWA). The RMWA annually celebrate and recognise the best wines across Australia withContinue reading “Entries open for the 2021 Royal Melbourne Wine Awards”

Conversation with the critics (Part 5 – credibility & expectations)

In the fifth episode of this ongoing series, credibility & expectations, experienced restaurant critics Brian Steel, Jeremy Ryland and Dane Richards discuss both credibility and expectation management in the review process. Watch previous episodes: Conversation with The Critics (part 4 – The Reviewer) Conversation with The Critics (part 3 – The New Normal) Conversation withContinue reading “Conversation with the critics (Part 5 – credibility & expectations)”

Luke Burgess and Adam James take over the kitchen at Oma Food & Wine

Luke Burgess (ex-Garagistes) and Adam James (Rough Rice) are getting ready to take over the kitchen at Oma Food & Wine next Sunday, 27 June as part of the ongoing ‘Oma & Co’ series.  They will work with the Oma team on the creation of a special set menu inspired by a recent trip throughContinue reading “Luke Burgess and Adam James take over the kitchen at Oma Food & Wine”

Conversation with the critics (Part 3 – The New Normal)

In the third episode of this ongoing series, The New Normal, experienced restaurant critics Brian Steel, Jeremy Ryland and Dane Richards discuss reviewing in the context of an industry impacted by COVID-19. Watch previous episodes: Conversation with The Critics (part 2 – The COVID Pivot) Conversation with The Critics (part 1 – Introduction) If youContinue reading “Conversation with the critics (Part 3 – The New Normal)”

Merivale grows Victorian portfolio with the Lorne Hotel

Merivale has acquired the Lorne Hotel, a historic pub that has stood proudly on Victoria’s Great Ocean Road for more than a century. The hospitality group will receive keys to the venue later this year and will trade as normal over the summer. Justin Hemmes, Merivale CEO, said: “The Lorne Hotel is an iconic venueContinue reading “Merivale grows Victorian portfolio with the Lorne Hotel”

In conversation with Lisa Margan

For those not yet familiar with the Hunter Culinary Association (HCA), can you tell us more about its purpose and ambitions?Hunter Culinary Association (HCA) was founded in 2006 as a not for profit organisation. It aims to continue to highlight the Hunter region as a culinary destination by promoting those within this regional hospitality industryContinue reading “In conversation with Lisa Margan”

2021 Winners ~ NSW SOMMELIER’S WINE LIST AWARDS

On Monday, 24th May, the top winners in the 2021 NSW SOMMELIER’S WINE LIST AWARDS (run by NSW Wine with strategic partners Destination NSW, WINEDEPOT and the Restaurant & Catering Association) were announced at Government House Sydney at a ceremony hosted by the Governor of New South Wales, Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley ACContinue reading “2021 Winners ~ NSW SOMMELIER’S WINE LIST AWARDS”

A new era for a Sydney icon – ivy reinvents itself after dark

Featuring Lost Sundays, POOF DOOF Sydney, Jimmy’s Underground and more nights to be announced soon. ivy, Merivale’s vibrant CBD dining and entertainment precinct, has reinvented itself after dark. The Sydney icon has transformed its expansive dance floor into a world-class super-club space, fostering the energy and freedom of a festival every weekend. Supercharged with outstandingContinue reading “A new era for a Sydney icon – ivy reinvents itself after dark”

A Culinary Comeback – The Hunter Culinary Association Returns

What happens when four gun chefs with a raft of experience and talent from Sydney and the Hunter Valley go head-to-head after a year on the ropes? The annual Food Fight is the signature event organised by the Hunter Culinary Association (HCA) and this year marks a triumphant return as the industry reunites after missingContinue reading “A Culinary Comeback – The Hunter Culinary Association Returns”

Conversation with the critics (part 2)

In the second episode of this ongoing series, The COVID Pivot, experienced restaurant critics Brian Steel, Jeremy Ryland and Dane Richards discuss the impacts of COVID-19 on both food criticism, and the wider industry at large. If you would like to express an interest in being mentored by one of the panel, please email: dane@newsforthefoodlover.com

Iconic Sydney restaurant Berowra Waters Inn welcomes Lauren Eldridge

One of Australia’s best pastry chefs, Lauren Eldridge will be joining the kitchen at iconic Sydney restaurant Berowra Waters Inn, forming a collaborative cooking duo with Head Chef and Owner, Brian Geraghty. Officially joining 20 May, Lauren will bring her impressive CV of postings and awards to the riverfront restaurant, including Pastry Chef at MarkContinue reading “Iconic Sydney restaurant Berowra Waters Inn welcomes Lauren Eldridge”

Conversation with the critics

In the first episode of this ongoing series, experienced restaurant critics Brian Steel, Jeremy Ryland and Dane Richards discuss the art and craft of restaurant reviewing, with a view to encouraging and mentoring the next generation of food reviewers. If you would like to express an interest in being mentored by one of the panel,Continue reading “Conversation with the critics”

World Class Cocktail Festival comes to Sydney

Five days of quality cocktail and food experiences, epic pop-up events and parties are set to excite the city this month. At a moment when we are all looking forward following the events of 2020, Australia is set to be inspired by its own vibrant bar culture with the World Class Cocktail Festival taking placeContinue reading “World Class Cocktail Festival comes to Sydney”

Massi re-opens after a year of closure

The CBD stalwart on Little Collins Street is back. A year after the first lockdown, much-loved Italian restaurant Massi in Melbourne’s CBD will be resurrected after Easter and re-open on Monday, 12th April. Known for its modern Sicilian cuisine and intimate, convivial atmosphere, Massi has been a destination for lunch and after-work eats since openingContinue reading “Massi re-opens after a year of closure”

Merivale acquires The Quarterdeck at Narooma

Merivale has acquired The Quarterdeck in Narooma, a beautiful town in the Eurobodalla region of the NSW South Coast. This is Merivale’s first hospitality venue outside Sydney. Justin Hemmes, CEO of Merivale, said: “Narooma has become my second home and the backdrop to so many of my happiest memories with my family. I think itContinue reading “Merivale acquires The Quarterdeck at Narooma”

Coming Soon: Appellation

A new Armadale wine and snack bar from the team behind Amaru. Appellation, a new wine bar concept from Clinton McIver (Amaru), will launch in late April with a focus on grower champagnes and drinking snacks representative of the Amaru food philosophy, delivered with an informative, yet informal service style. Inspired by Amaru regulars –Continue reading “Coming Soon: Appellation”

Lunch is served at Art Gallery of NSW as ‘Crafted by Matt Moran’ opens its doors

The Art Gallery of New South Wales announces the opening of an exciting new restaurant concept, Art Gallery Restaurant Crafted by Matt Moran this Friday, March 26. The restaurant launches in partnership with newly appointed culinary advisor, Matt Moran, who will sit across the development of restaurant and catering menus, and work with food andContinue reading “Lunch is served at Art Gallery of NSW as ‘Crafted by Matt Moran’ opens its doors”

Whisky Loot Rainy Day Recipe – The Penicillin

Whisky Loot Rainy Day Recipe – The Penicillin As the rain hits Sydney, this chilly autumn day, Whisky Loot Sommelier, Joel Hauer, has put together the ultimate whisky warmer recipe, The Penicillin, to help you keep the colder temperatures out and the sniffles at bay. Check out how to make this autumnal cocktail hit below:  TheContinue reading “Whisky Loot Rainy Day Recipe – The Penicillin”

2021 NSW Sommelier’s Wine List Awards

Supporting restaurants for a brighter future.  The 2021 NSW SOMMELIER’S WINE LIST AWARDS launched last week with a new look and a revitalised aim of showcasing and rewarding the very best ‘NSW Wine Stars’. A ‘NSW Wine Star’ is a sommelier/beverage manager or venue that offers their customers a great NSW wine experience and aContinue reading “2021 NSW Sommelier’s Wine List Awards”

Update from Lucas Group – Yakimono to open late 2021

Yakimono, a contemporary high-energy, inner-city eating house, is a collaboration between Chris Lucas and Chef Martin Benn. Located at 80 Collins, next door to the soon-to-open SOCIETY, Yakimono will offer a Japanese-style grill menu with a pared-back, delicious and modernist take on Japanese inner-city dining. Due to open late 2021, Yakimono will combine adventurous and robustContinue reading “Update from Lucas Group – Yakimono to open late 2021”

Fine Dining Review: Jung Sung | 16/20

It is a Saturday night in the Kensington dining precinct, and it’s just a pleasure to see so many diners out after the COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted. The industry, which lost many good restaurants during that period, needs new, exciting and quality openings to fill that void and offer hope, and Jung Sung hitsContinue reading “Fine Dining Review: Jung Sung | 16/20”

Fine Dining Review: Tonic | 16/20

With international borders closed, and state borders problematical at best due to the fluidity of COVID-19, food and wine lovers are now exploring their own state’s regions more. Tonic, established in 2003, and located in historic Millthorpe – just a short trip from Orange – is a local gem that is a must-stop on any journey. OwnersContinue reading “Fine Dining Review: Tonic | 16/20”

Fine Casual Dining Review: Fratelli Fresh (Darling Harbour) | 14/15

The original concept of Fratelli Fresh largely informed the direction of fine casual dining in Sydney, when after buying quality fresh produce, you could then relax with a well-executed pasta dish and a glass of wine and leave well satisfied without emptying your pockets. Rockpool Dining Group, who now own and oversee the brand, haveContinue reading “Fine Casual Dining Review: Fratelli Fresh (Darling Harbour) | 14/15”

Chile: A destination of contrasts

In this age of globalisation, it is hard to find a tourist location that still has any sense of real authenticity left to offer like Chile, with such a vast range of diversity. Part of three continents (South America, Oceania, and the Antarctic), with over 6,000 kms of coastline, it offers some of the most stunning and picturesque locationsContinue reading “Chile: A destination of contrasts”