November
Would you eat bear salami?
Filled with umami, the cured meat is the brainchild of Slovenian small-goods producer David Lesar. It’s just one of many internationally lauded cured products he produces.
If it’s gourmet adventures you’re after, it’s time to visit Slovenia
This country of 2 million has 10 Michelin-starred restaurants. Here’s how to navigate them.
October
An Australian’s revolutionary wine glass has floored French experts
It looks intriguing and glassware designer Denver Cramer says it can “age” its contents by four to five years.
April
What happens when farmers and chefs partner in R&D
Mark Foletta and Stephen Nairn met over a box of foraged mushrooms in 2011. Thus began their endeavours to surprise and delight your tastebuds.
Star chef swaps fine dining for ‘young dining’
Ana Roš has swapped fine dining for ‘young dining’ with her latest venture in Slovenia’s capital serving simple, seasonal shared dishes.
March
Local Vinnies a treasure trove for early pieces by renowned sculptor
From Detroit to local markets, two Melbourne artists spent 25 years assembling an unrivalled collection of mid-century design pieces by Clement Meadmore.
From retro to romantic: wineries raise the luxury stay stakes
Two Victorian wineries – Polperro on the Mornington Peninsula and Carrajung Estate in Gippsland – give their accommodation offerings a luxe boost.
November 2023
Smoke, bubbles and magic – meet the new cocktail experience
Table-side theatrics are back, with cocktails served in the time-honoured tradition of guéridon, or trolley-service. But they’re drinks with a twist.
October 2023
Where to dine in France: Tips from the president of Relais & Chateaux
Laurent Gardinier is well qualified to nominate his favourite eateries – after all, his own family business is focused on high-end hospitality and gastronomy.
August 2023
If you love mussels, you’ll love this tour. Just ask chef Ben Shewry
Lance Wiffen began growing the bivalves in Victoria’s Port Phillip in 1986. After hosting top cooks including Rene Redzepi, he’s now offering public tours.
June 2023
The Michelin-star chef machine is rolling back into town
Restaurant residencies are on the rise in Australia. It’s good for venues during low season, and for diners who can’t get a booking overseas.
May 2023
How this Melbourne chef made fine dining sustainable
Jason Staudt is a chef on a mission: he is always on the lookout for ways to do more for the planet while also producing fabulous food.
April 2023
Book a table, escape the everyday
It seems we all want to be transported to more carefree times and places – diners, the hospitality industry and interior designers too.
March 2023
From the humblest to the unique, vessels reveal much about us
Melbourne-based ceramicist Zhu Ohmu is among 15 artists, craftspeople and designers in a first-time collaboration between the National Gallery of Victoria and Craft Victoria.
Château d’Yquem by the glass? Only at this restaurant
It’s not for nothing this truly great wine is known as the “nectar of the gods”. Just 45 top venues worldwide are allowed to serve it by the glass.
November 2022
Worried about over-tourism? Head to Samoa’s deserted beaches
At a time when the ultimate luxury is to be far from crowded places, this jewel of the South Pacific is having its moment in the sun.
Time travelling with artist Rone in a fabled Melbourne ballroom
Like the era he’s conjured in his vast installation above Flinders Street Station, the transient nature of his work is never lost on the former street muralist.
October 2022
Put on your party frocks: The Birdcage is back, bigger than ever
Victoria Racing Club has pulled out all the stops, adding a fine-dining marquee and other delights, while principal sponsor Lexus is going green.
August 2022
Why Australia’s chefs are going wild for exotic mushrooms
Lion’s mane, coral tooth, scaly flame caps... These are the names of just a few new fungi popping up on menus as growers and restaurants up their shroom game.
November 2021
Q vs W. Which Melbourne hotel is the coolest?
Two recent CBD entrants have stepped into the ring to vie for the title of the city’s best boutique hotel.