Hugh Allen, renowned Australian chef, opens Yiaga, a bold new dining destination in the heart of Melbourne’s Fitzroy Gardens. Allen, Yiaga chef and co-owner, said: “It has been a lifelong dream of mine to open a restaurant from scratch, a place that truly reflects me, my team, and our journeys. There’s no better feeling than being ableContinue reading “Yiaga: Chef Hugh Allen’s ambitious first restaurant, years in the making, opens today in Melbourne’s Fitzroy Gardens”
Tag Archives: food
First Look Inside Le Frérot: Potts Point’s New Parisian Café Bistro
Nestled in the heart of Potts Point, the charming ‘little brother’ to acclaimed Franca Brasserie has arrived, bringing a fresh take on all-day dining. Inspired by the timeless charm of Parisian café-bistros, Le Frérot welcomes guests from first morning coffee to the last evening pour, seven days a week. From buttery croissants, long lunches toContinue reading “First Look Inside Le Frérot: Potts Point’s New Parisian Café Bistro”
Fine Casual Dining Review: Flavour of India | 14/15
In the Sydney diner’s chase for the shiny and new, its way too easy to overlook our institutional restaurants, who have stood the test of time for very good reason. Flavour of India, established in 1990 and now some thirty five years on with the original Head Chef Hayat Mahamud, plays its greatest hits everyContinue reading “Fine Casual Dining Review: Flavour of India | 14/15”
FANDA GROUP OPENS THE DOORS TO MARLOWE, AN ELEGANT AUSTRALIAN BISTRO ON FISH LANE
On Tuesday, 23 September, celebrated Queensland operation Fanda Group (Rick Shores, Central, Norté, Sueño, Southside) will open the doors to Marlowe, an elegant Australian bistro in South Brisbane’s vibrant Fish Lane precinct. Housed in a heritage-listed 1938 apartment block once known as the Merivale Flats, Marlowe channels the warmth and charm of its past acrossContinue reading “FANDA GROUP OPENS THE DOORS TO MARLOWE, AN ELEGANT AUSTRALIAN BISTRO ON FISH LANE”
Blackbird Bar, Dining & Events Lands In Melbourne: A Three-Level Celebration of Modern Australian Cuisine, Native Ingredients and Wood-Fired Flavours
Ghanem Group’s Blackbird Bar, Dining & Events is set to make its highly anticipated Melbourne debut on Tuesday, 19 August 2025. The striking, three-level restaurant at 66 Flinders Lane, within Collins Place, offers a modern Australian menu that celebrates native ingredients, in-house, dry-aged beef and fresh seafood from across the country – all expertly wood-firedContinue reading “Blackbird Bar, Dining & Events Lands In Melbourne: A Three-Level Celebration of Modern Australian Cuisine, Native Ingredients and Wood-Fired Flavours”
Matt Moran brings together two of Australia’s most exciting chefs for a one-night-only dinner in celebration of spring
To mark the beginning of spring, celebrated restaurateur and Chiswick co-owner Matt Moran will unite acclaimed guest chef Matt Stone and Chiswick head chef Samuel Rozsnyoi for a special one-off collaboration dinner at Chiswick Woollahra. The dinner, held on 11 September 2025, will be a true celebration of spring, spotlighting hyper-seasonal produce and flavours drawnContinue reading “Matt Moran brings together two of Australia’s most exciting chefs for a one-night-only dinner in celebration of spring”
Three Michelin-Star Maaemo Goes All-Australian for Four-Day Pop-Up at Berowra Waters Inn
The native bush surrounds of Sydney’s Hawkesbury River will host a rare culinary collaboration later this month, when Norway’s three Michelin-starred Maaemo creates an entirely Australian version of its distinctive hyper-local Nordic cuisine at two-hatted Berowra Waters Inn. Maaemo executive chef, Jay Boyle – one of just three Australian chefs running three Michelin-starred restaurants globally* –Continue reading “Three Michelin-Star Maaemo Goes All-Australian for Four-Day Pop-Up at Berowra Waters Inn”
Felons Seafood officially opens at Manly Wharf
Felons Brewing Co. officially opens the doors to Felons Seafood—a relaxed, 300-seat indoor and outdoor waterfront dining room and bar at Manly Wharf. With head chef Luke Bourke—The Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide 2025 ‘young chef of the year’—leading the kitchen, Felons Seafood offers a produce-led menu that celebrates the best of Australia’s oceans and coastlinesContinue reading “Felons Seafood officially opens at Manly Wharf”
ROOM4DESSERT ENTERS ITS 11TH YEAR — AND ITS SWEETEST FORM YET
A living, breathing flavour banjar (neighbourhood) in the heart of Ubud — complete with dessert bar, boutique stay, regenerative farm, and a culinary academy rewriting the rules What started as a cheeky late-night dessert bar in New York has evolved into a curious sweet life in Bali. Room4Dessert — the brainchild of pastry provocateur andContinue reading “ROOM4DESSERT ENTERS ITS 11TH YEAR — AND ITS SWEETEST FORM YET”
Ex-Quay Chef Leads Western Sydney’s Most Immersive New Culinary Experience
A fire-damaged heritage site is back on the map after multi-million dollar transformation A landmark venue in Camden, Argyle House, has re-emerged after a multi-million dollar rebuild, positioning itself as a new benchmark for regional hospitality. Opening in June and located within a restored heritage building, the new venue sits within the iconic ‘Whiteman’s Arcade’Continue reading “Ex-Quay Chef Leads Western Sydney’s Most Immersive New Culinary Experience”
MEZEPOTAMIA
REDFERN’S CELEBRATION OF MIDDLE EASTERN & TURKISH CUISINE Mezepotamia is a vibrant Mezze-Wine Bar in the heart of Sydney’s most buzzing dining hotspot, Redfern. Founded by hospitality veterans Enes Yakan and Jessica Paatiño, the venue blends traditional Turkish and Middle Eastern flavours with a contemporary twist. More than just a restaurant, Mezepotamia offers a journeyContinue reading “MEZEPOTAMIA”
Fine Casual Dining Review: Divino Osteria | 14.5/15
Located in the site of the former, and much-storied Sebel Town House, Divino Osteria is an ode to the warmth of authentic Southern Italian Cuisine. Head Chef Andrea Di Stefano from Catania, has worked in Michelin-starred kitchens, however has decided to bring the foundations of that skillset into a more convivial and less structured environmentContinue reading “Fine Casual Dining Review: Divino Osteria | 14.5/15”
Divino Osteria: Elizabeth Bay’s newest Italian Hotspot at Sebel Townhouse
Nestled in the storied walls of the former Sebel Townhouse, Divino Osteria is a love letter to Southern Italy, serving authentic flavours and heartfelt hospitality on one of Elizabeth Bay’s most iconic streets. Once the unofficial home of Australia’s music scene, the Sebel Townhouse Hotel welcomed legends like Elton John, David Bowie, and The Clash.Continue reading “Divino Osteria: Elizabeth Bay’s newest Italian Hotspot at Sebel Townhouse”
Minor Figures is turning up the heat on your coffee game with a whole lot of funk and flavour!
Meet Minor Figures, the rebel of the coffee scene, flavour fanatics, and plant-powered pioneers. Minor Figures is calling you to kickstart your day with their expertly crafted Barista Oat range. Coffee is more than just a morning necessity, it’s an art form that sets the tone for the day ahead, relishing in those sweet coffeeContinue reading “Minor Figures is turning up the heat on your coffee game with a whole lot of funk and flavour!”
Why Australia needs The Michelin Guide
There has been a lot written recently questioning the relevance of the Michelin Guide, not only globally, but how it would meaningfully contribute in the context of the Modern Australian culinary landscape. Having been heavily involved in the introduction of the International Guide to our market, I fully not only understand the challenges, but alsoContinue reading “Why Australia needs The Michelin Guide”
BANG Launches Bangin’ Brunch with Chandon: A Playful Twist On Brunch
Kickstart The Weekend At The Fitzroy Favourite With Food, Fizz and Live DJs Fitzroy’s Thai-inspired dining venue BANG at The StandardX Melbourne has launched its new Bangin’ Brunch with Chandon — a playful twist on brunch that brings together the punchy, vibrant flavours of Thai street food perfectly paired with the refreshing sparkle of Chandon Garden Spritz. Every Saturday fromContinue reading “BANG Launches Bangin’ Brunch with Chandon: A Playful Twist On Brunch”
SYDNEY’S NEWEST MUGHAL EMPIRE RESTAURANT JUST OPENED NEAR SURRY HILL’S HOTTEST NEWEST EATING PRECINCT!!
NAWABI IS SERVING ANCIENT RECIPES FROM THE CREATORS BEHIND THE TAJ MAHAL Just near the new and lively Wunderlich Lane, a brand-new contender has arrived in Surry Hills, turning up the heat—Nawabi. ANCIENT ROYAL CUISINE Sydney’s newest Mughal restaurant is here, serving 400-year-old ancient royal recipes from the fabled empire that created some of history’sContinue reading “SYDNEY’S NEWEST MUGHAL EMPIRE RESTAURANT JUST OPENED NEAR SURRY HILL’S HOTTEST NEWEST EATING PRECINCT!!”
STEPHANIE ALEXANDER UNVEILS QUEEN VICTORIA MARKET MURAL, INSPIRING NEXT GENERATION OF FOOD LOVERS
A spectacular new mural, born from a unique collaboration between the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Foundation and renowned Melbourne artist David Booth (known as Ghostpatrol), has been unveiled at Queen Victoria Market today.The artwork is set to become a focal point within the Market, connecting young people with fresh, seasonal produce and healthy eating. The Ghostpatrol mural was created with theContinue reading “STEPHANIE ALEXANDER UNVEILS QUEEN VICTORIA MARKET MURAL, INSPIRING NEXT GENERATION OF FOOD LOVERS”
Fine Casual Dining Review: 5th Earl, Rosebery | 13.5/15
It is hard to categorise the 5th Earl which can be found at the entrance of The Cannery in Rosebery, as you could define it as a bustling Cafe in the morning, an all day eatery thereafter, and even leaning towards a Bistro on Friday and Saturday nights. What is more certain, is the undeniableContinue reading “Fine Casual Dining Review: 5th Earl, Rosebery | 13.5/15”
NEL is 10
Chef Nelly Robinson is of one of Sydney’s and Australia’s most innovative Chefs. It could also be said that his evolving narrative is without peer, and from a sheer creativity and presentation perspective – its largely unparalleled. Of course, none of this matters unless you can back it up with substance, both technically and withContinue reading “NEL is 10”
Fine Casual Dining Review: Modo Mio | 14.5/15
The ever expanding Sydney Metro has been a game changer, not only in terms of improved Transport, but in opening up a new wave of exciting dining outside of the CBD. Castle Hill, previously a problematical destination to get to, is now very accessible for more than its devoted locals. Modo Mio is one ofContinue reading “Fine Casual Dining Review: Modo Mio | 14.5/15”
Persian Nights, Balmain Lights: Shila Kitchen’s Royal Invitation
By day, Shila Kitchen has long been a beloved Persian deli, celebrated for its authentic flavours and vibrant charm. By night, this walk-in-only gem transforms into an intimate dinner destination, reimagining generations-old royal Persian recipes for the modern palate. Located at 325 Darling Street, Shila Kitchen offers a warm and sophisticated dining experience unlike anyContinue reading “Persian Nights, Balmain Lights: Shila Kitchen’s Royal Invitation”
SIMON ROGAN’S L’ENCLUME, NO. 1 RANKED RESTAURANT IN THE WORLD, WILL RETURN TO SYDNEY IN JULY FOR A SIX-WEEK RESIDENCY AT BATHERS’ PAVILION
Bathers’ Pavilion has today announced a not-to-be-missed six-week residency with one of the world’s leading restaurants, L’Enclume, from 16 July until 24 August, 2025. With three Michelin Stars to its name and ranked no. 1 restaurant in the world for 2025 by the French restaurant bible, La Liste, L’Enclume is undeniably one of the world’s most awarded and covetedContinue reading “SIMON ROGAN’S L’ENCLUME, NO. 1 RANKED RESTAURANT IN THE WORLD, WILL RETURN TO SYDNEY IN JULY FOR A SIX-WEEK RESIDENCY AT BATHERS’ PAVILION”
International Chef Spotlight: Vincent Crepel
The French Visionary Behind Ireland’s Two-Michelin-Starred Terre Nestled within the idyllic Castlemartyr Resort in County Cork, Ireland, Terre represents the creative brilliance of Chef Vincent Crepel. In just over two years, this intimate dining destination has garnered two Michelin stars, redefining modern gastronomy and establishing itself as a global culinary landmark. Born in Luz SaintContinue reading “International Chef Spotlight: Vincent Crepel”
Modo Mio: Castle Hill’s Iconic Italian Dining Destination
Where Culinary Talent Meets Michelin-Starred Excellence Modo Mio in Castle Hill, elevates suburban dining with city-quality Italian cuisine. Time-honoured Italian traditions meet refined techniques, while authentic Italian hospitality creates a warm and welcoming experience for all. Modo Mio was created to deliver exceptional Italian cuisine and warm hospitality to the Hills District, offering a diningContinue reading “Modo Mio: Castle Hill’s Iconic Italian Dining Destination”
Chef Spotlight: Ivan Brehm, Chef-owner of one Michelin-starred restaurant Nouri & creative interdisciplinary space Appetite
Ivan Brehm is the chef-owner of Michelin-starred Nouri and creative space Appetite in Singapore. Known for his thoughtful approach to food and creativity, Ivan’s philosophy, “Crossroads Thinking”, explores the interdependence of all things, both inside and outside the kitchen. This perspective inspires his work, rooted in collaboration, exploration, and uncovering connections between cultures and histories.Continue reading “Chef Spotlight: Ivan Brehm, Chef-owner of one Michelin-starred restaurant Nouri & creative interdisciplinary space Appetite”
TASTE THE TROPICS: THE HOTTEST FRUIT TRENDS FOR 2025
Move over mangoes, it’s time to go beyond bananas. Traders at Melbourne’s wholesale fruit and vegetable market have revealed the hottest trends in produce for 2025, with exotic flavors and exciting new fruit varieties set to take Australia by storm. These unique fruits are bursting onto the local greengrocer’s shelves with their intriguing flavoursContinue reading “TASTE THE TROPICS: THE HOTTEST FRUIT TRENDS FOR 2025”
BELMOND LAUNCHES ITALIAN CHEF RESIDENCIES AT MANDALA CLUB IN SINGAPORE
SAVOURING THE ITALIAN ART OF “VILLEGGIATURA” WITH IMMERSIVE CULINARY EXPERIENCES DURING JANUARY AND FEBRUARY 2025 Belmond, a visionary leader in luxury travel with a unique and diverse portfolio, is excited to announce an exclusive partnership with Singapore’s prestigious Mandala Club for a four-week Italian culinary residency in 2025. From 14 January to 15 February, MANDALA CLUBContinue reading “BELMOND LAUNCHES ITALIAN CHEF RESIDENCIES AT MANDALA CLUB IN SINGAPORE”
Four exciting new venues to open in time for summer, expanding The Streets of Barangaroo
The Streets of Barangaroo is set to welcome four exciting new venues this summer, adding even more variety to Sydney’s premier waterside dining destination with the opening of Anita Gelato, Vietnamese restaurant Annamese, Haven Coffee and Yo-Chi frozen yogurt. Three of the retailers – Anita Gelato, Annamese and Haven Coffee – will be the firstContinue reading “Four exciting new venues to open in time for summer, expanding The Streets of Barangaroo”
Fine Dining Review: O Bar and Dining | 17/20
It had been far too long between visits, and after accepting an invitation to attend a Woodford Reserve Tasting, I was instantly wowed by the flavour and textural profiles of the canapés for that event, especially since it was being matched to an extensive range of Bourbon Whiskey’s. As it turns out, Owner Michael MooreContinue reading “Fine Dining Review: O Bar and Dining | 17/20”
Fine Dining Review: Oribu | 16/20
From the moment you arrive, you can almost smell the ambition as you enter via The lavish Heritage Lounge, taking whisky and cocktails to the next level with a monolithic thirty four page list in this impressively reimagined c.1928 bank on Church Street. I should also mention the LE CHEVAL cigar lounge, which I shallContinue reading “Fine Dining Review: Oribu | 16/20”
The Ducks at Hotel Brunswick is now open
Three Blue Ducks and Hotel Brunswick are thrilled to announce the opening of ‘The Ducks at Hotel Brunswick’, a new eatery that combines the relaxed atmosphere of a classic Aussie pub with the food style and sustainable ethos that Three Blue Ducks is known for. The Hotel sits on the banks of the Brunswick River,Continue reading “The Ducks at Hotel Brunswick is now open”
Three Chefs, One Vision: Oribu’s Newest Era
New Head Chefs Jay Lee, Jaybert Teves, and Bryan Paul Nery bring fresh creativity and dishes to Oribu Nestled in the heart of Church Street, within the esteemed Heritage Precinct, Oribu, is stepping into a brand new chapter by introducing not one, but three head chefs to lead the kitchen. The newly appointed chefs –Continue reading “Three Chefs, One Vision: Oribu’s Newest Era”
KEY INFO: THE GRILL AT THE INTERNATIONAL
In November 2024, The Point* Group, responsible for some of Sydney’s favourite establishments including Shell House, opened a new, multi-dimensional destination in Sydney’s CBD. Elevated above Sydney’s social and civic heart at Martin Place, there are three venues that make up The International: The Wine Bar, The Grill and The Panorama Bar. About The Grill: Continue reading “KEY INFO: THE GRILL AT THE INTERNATIONAL”
A New Chapter in Pan-Asian Dining
CHU Restaurant by China Doll Unveils Menu by Chef Frank Shek Greater Sydney’s culinary landscape has taken a bold step forward with CHU Restaurant by China Doll unveiling a thoughtfully expanded menu crafted by renowned Sydney Chef Frank Shek with CHU Head Chef, Arthur Jheng. Known for his innovative approach to pan-Asian cuisine, Chef Shek’sContinue reading “A New Chapter in Pan-Asian Dining”
Fine Dining Review: Sala Dining | 16/20
Sala Dining part of the Dedes Waterfront Group, located on the Jones Bay Wharf in Pyrmont, is a stylish celebration of Italian cuisine and conviviality with Industry heavyweight Chef Owner Danny Russo and Executive Chef Michael Lewis at the helm. Its a heady mix of demographics that fill the room, and Russo works it likeContinue reading “Fine Dining Review: Sala Dining | 16/20”
Dan Hunter of world-renowned restaurant, Brae, comes to Sydney Opera House for a four-night only residency with acclaimed chef and culinary director, Danielle Alvarez
Tickets for ‘Harvest of Purpose’ are on sale now Trippas White Group (TWG) announces its collaboration with Brae, the internationally acclaimed three-hatted restaurant from rural Victoria. For the first time, owner and executive chef Dan Hunter will bring Brae’s philosophy of sustainability and purpose-driven cuisine to Sydney. He will collaborate with acclaimed chef and culinaryContinue reading “Dan Hunter of world-renowned restaurant, Brae, comes to Sydney Opera House for a four-night only residency with acclaimed chef and culinary director, Danielle Alvarez”
Discover JŌJI: Sydney’s Newest Rooftop Bar
Where Japanese Philosophy Meets Sydney’s Vibrant Culture Perched atop the Cartier flagship on the corner of George and King Street, JŌJI – the latest venture from ESCA Group – is set to become Sydney’s most sought-after rooftop bar. Merging a creative harmony of Shibui, Wabi Sabi, and Datsuzoku principles in its lively cocktail menu, the late-night venueContinue reading “Discover JŌJI: Sydney’s Newest Rooftop Bar”
Angelo’s on the Bay at Cabarita: Re-imagining a local hero
Taking on the dream of revitalising a local hero, which is much loved to the residents of Cabarita, requires courage, vision and innovation (not to mention a significant financial investment). To re-imagine a waterfront dining favourite in a tight-knit and food savvy community has to be done along with their support and a shared respectContinue reading “Angelo’s on the Bay at Cabarita: Re-imagining a local hero”
Fine Dining Review: Parlar | 17/20
The re-opening of Parlar was much anticipated after their core team travelled overseas and reconnected with Spain and the Catalan region during the Australian Winter. The inspiration they returned with is simply stunning in translation to experience in all aspects of this Restaurant. To be so expressive, finessed and cohesive after just two weeks makesContinue reading “Fine Dining Review: Parlar | 17/20”
Beom Beom brings a contemporary take to Korean soul food in Sydney’s Darling Square
Darling Square, Sydney’s five-star destination for fun, friends and flavour, welcomes Beom Beom, a contemporary Korean diner helmed by executive chef Jacob Lee. Based around ‘hansik’, Korean traditional food and culture, Beom Beom is open for lunch and dinner six days a week serving Korean ‘soul food’, with a modern twist. Following the successful launchContinue reading “Beom Beom brings a contemporary take to Korean soul food in Sydney’s Darling Square”
Ghanem Group Brings New Restaurant Lúc Lắc to The Star Brisbane
Brisbane-based hospitality pioneer the Ghanem Group is bringing a dazzling 159-seat, tropical-chic Indochine-inspired restaurant and bar called Lúc Lắc to The Star Brisbane in line with the expected staged opening of The Star and the broader Queen’s Wharf Brisbane. Expected to open in September 2024, Lúc Lắc is breathtaking at first sight. A lush, indoor-outdoor,Continue reading “Ghanem Group Brings New Restaurant Lúc Lắc to The Star Brisbane”
MILTON WINE BAR CELEBRATES 10 YEARS WITH STUNNING NEW LOOK AND NEW WOOD-FIRED MENU
One of Melbourne’s premier wine bars, Milton has unveiled a striking new look and kitchen offering. In celebration of its 10th anniversary, Milton now offers an expanded, elevated courtyard dining experience with a new open kitchen and a wood-fired oven a focus of the updated space. Located in the heart of Malvern, the European-leaning wineContinue reading “MILTON WINE BAR CELEBRATES 10 YEARS WITH STUNNING NEW LOOK AND NEW WOOD-FIRED MENU”
Now Open: Orlo
A Mediterranean-Inspired Restaurant and Bar Opens In Collingwood In A Former 19th Century Cordial Factory rlo, Collingwood’s new Mediterranean-inspired restaurant and bar has opened its doors at 44 Oxford Street. Housed in the historic Dyason Cordial Factory and set across three levels, the new arrival welcomes a ground-floor dining room, an enclosed courtyard with oliveContinue reading “Now Open: Orlo”
Fine Dining Review: Nico | 15/20
One of the pleasures of reviewing restaurants, is having no preconception of the experience you are about to undertake. For a range of reasons, mostly due to the number of new openings, you may miss that opportunity to catch a potential gem in its formative months. The benefit however is allowing the Restaurant proper timeContinue reading “Fine Dining Review: Nico | 15/20”
WORLD FIRST LUXURY GREY GOOSE MARTINI BAR, LE MARTINI, ARRIVES IN MELBOURNE
Australia’s number one Super Premium Vodka, GREY GOOSE® is thrilled to open the doors to Le Martini at Crown Melbourne – the world’s first standalone GREY GOOSE bar created in partnership with Crown. Now open and officially welcoming guests, the new venue dedicated to its namesake – the martini – will feature bespoke cocktail menusContinue reading “WORLD FIRST LUXURY GREY GOOSE MARTINI BAR, LE MARTINI, ARRIVES IN MELBOURNE”
Sella Wine Bar & Restaurant in Randwick saddles up for a Sardinian journey
Sardinian-born restaurateur Fabio Dore has launched a new menu offering and welcomed a new Sardinian head chef for his award-winning wine bar, restaurant and cellar, Sella, located within the Newmarket Stables precinct in Randwick. Sella will celebrate the rustic simplicity of Sardinia, showcasing the diverse and traditional ingredients of the Mediterranean island. Opening three yearsContinue reading “Sella Wine Bar & Restaurant in Randwick saddles up for a Sardinian journey”
Fine Casual Dining Review: de Vine Food and Wine | 14.5/15
de Vine Food and Wine recently celebrated its 21st year, and during that period a multitude of food trends have come and gone. Somewhere along the way, the industry in chasing those foams, molecular and deconstruction pursuits, forgot one of the most important functions of a Restaurant is to feed people well. de Vine overContinue reading “Fine Casual Dining Review: de Vine Food and Wine | 14.5/15”
