Despite the post-Christmas good intentions and surge in gym memberships, as we ease into the rough and tumble of the daily grind our thoughts turn to … food. Across this great brown land we’re talking food festivals, food cruises, Valentine’s Day dinners and more. Here’s some of the most exciting food (and wine) events coming up.
A Table to End Hunger
Australia’s lovers really do enjoy celebrating St Valentine’s untimely martyrdom by dining out with their special someone. Notoriously, one of the busiest nights of the year it can be difficult to snag a reservation. This year some of the country’s most sought after restaurants have teamed up with The Hunger Project to help you get you that table.
You can bid on that ‘impossible to get’ table for 2 at restaurants including Mercado, Fratelli Paradiso, Longtime, Three Blue Ducks and Sweetwater Bar. All proceeds go to the Hunger Project to end World Hunger by 2030 in countries across Africa as well as India and Bangladesh. http://thp.org.au/a-table-to-end-hunger/
Pomme d’Amour Lovers’ Dinner
ICYMI the humble tomato was once referred to as the ‘love apple’ or pomme d’amour.
Mistakenly classified as a mandrake meant it was considered an aphrodisiac with narcotic powers. The inaugural Pomme d’Amour Lovers Dinner is just the prelude to 2017 Tomato Festival Sydney.
The romance begins on Valentine’s Day when your sweetheart receives a bouquet of roses along with a personalised invitation to join you at the exclusive Lovers’ Dinner on February 17, under the stars at a table for two at the Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney.
The three-course dinner menu is designed by the Botanic Garden Restaurant and is complemented by an open bar, candlelight and one of the world’s best views. To book: http://www.loversdinner.com
2017 Tomato Festival Sydney
Back for it’s fourth year, this year’s festival is once again at Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 February. As the tomato season reaches key ripeness, the festival combines both free and ticketed events. From cooking demos to hands-on pizza making for kids there’s something for all the family.
Undercover at a 70m long table the Longest Tomato Lunch is held on both Saturday and Sunday. The foreshore lawns are the setting for the annual feast that is dedicated to all things tomato. https://www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/Visit/tomato-festival
Yarra Valley Wine & Food Festival
Kicking off on April 1 and 2, the very first Yarra Valley Wine & Food Festival is all about discovering one of Australia’s premier wine regions.
Not just for oenophiles, the 2-day fest showcases local brewers and cider makers, local produce and restaurants. The picturesque Rochford Wines will be transformed with a farmers market, live music and Master Classes over the weekend.
Think Tarra Warra Estate, Coldstream Brewery, Yarra Valley Dairy and dozens more producers and wineries. Wine Laneways will crisscross the estate; dedicated laneways exploring varietals such as the Valley’s specialty Chardonnay and Pinot Noir will sit alongside Cabernet Lane, Sparkling Lane as well as local beers and ciders. http://www.yarravalleywineandfoodfestival.com.au/
Noosa Food & Wine 2017
One of Australia’s most loved eat, drink and talk fests in an undeniably stunning location will be back May 18-21.
The full line-up of chefs is yet to be announced but perennial favourites Luke Mangan, Frank Camorra, Nick Holloway and of course Noosa local, Shane Bailey from Noosa Boathouse will all be there.
Most of last year’s events were sold-out so get in early. 2017 Festival pre-release tickets are now available before the full program release mid-February. More tickets to all events will be made available. Subscribe via http://www.noosafoodandwine.com.au/ to be the first to find out.
All our regular readers will know that when it comes to Australia’s premier food and wine events – you can find all the details on the ThisMagnificentLife Magnificent Events calendar.