Aussies are a little obsessed with food these days. Whether it’s food blogs, TV shows or the lure of celebrity chefs, we’re all a little transfixed by fancy cupcakes, Wagyu beef burgers, food trucks, boutique beer and seasonal produce if you’ve dusted off your apron and sharpened your knives but need a little push (or a dollop of inspiration), head to the Melbourne Good Food & Wine Show from 1-3 June.
Indulge your tastebuds and sample gourmet cheeses, condiments and wines for every occasion. You can also take the opportunity to learn some of the secrets chefs use in the kitchen; for those interested in furthering their culinary education, head to the Flavour Workshop hosted by Oxford Landing Estates winemaker Matt Pick and Maggie Beer’s chef, Chris Wotton. Under their guidance, you’ll find out how to pair wines with particular ingredients – what works, what doesn’t, and why. If you’re curious about bush tucker, head for the Tuckaroo cooking class, where Andrew Fielke will teach you how to integrate bush ingredients into your cooking at home.
Or, if you have a sweet tooth, take the Adora Chocolate Masterclass so you can wow your friends with your hand-crafted butter truffles.
Alternatively, if you’d prefer to eat (and let other people get their hands dirty), then bag yourself a Lifestyle FOOD Chef’s Table ticket where you get a tasting menu of three dishes, paired with 3 wines, plus a goodie bag. If you’re a fan, bring your recipe books to get signed by celebrity chefs like Maggie Beer, Rick Stein, George Calombaris.
If the Good Food and Wine Show have left you a little exhausted, or you feel like taking the night off, then head home, put your feet up and order some great classic Chinese takeaway.