It’s that time of year again in Melbourne and throughout Victoria – Melbourne Food and Wine Festival is here! Offering the regular program of restaurant openings, masterclasses and long lunches that we’ve come to expect, plus a whole range of quirky one-off experiences that are sure to delight any local foodie.
This year’s festival is so packed full of diverse and delicious events that a quick look at the program is enough to make you feel instantly overwhelmed. To help you out, we’ve put together our Top 5 MFWF picks around Melbourne, and in our local area of Geelong.
Express Lunches
Perfect for: city professionals who are short on time
The festival’s express lunches are a fantastic opportunity to sample the dining experience at some of Melbourne’s most popular establishments. You can choose from over 50 inner city and rural restaurants who will provide a two-course lunch and a glass of wine for just $40.
http://www.melbournefoodandwine.com.au/program/restaurant-express-presented-by-dimmi-6636
Canvas to plate: food inspired by works of art
Perfect for: art lovers looking for a quick city escape
Get out of the city and into Geelong (our home town!) for a day of artistic and culinary exploration. This event takes place at the Geelong Gallery and will include a moving feast of local fare, prepared with inspiration from the Gallery’s showcased art collection.
http://www.melbournefoodandwine.com.au/program/canvas-to-plate-6463
Crawl ‘n’ Bite: Laneways of Melbourne
Perfect for: laneway lovers
If you’re partial to a cobblestoned path, graffiti and hidden holes in the wall, this is the festival event for you.
Discover three handpicked bars or restaurants in one night and get a unique insight into the best of Melbourne’s vibrant dining scene, from the iconic to the undiscovered. You’ll also get to enjoy a bite and matched drink in each venue before being guided to the next. Bottoms up!
http://www.melbournefoodandwine.com.au/program/laneways-of-melbourne-6635
Ned Kelly’s last meal
Perfect for: history buffs and wannabe outlaws
Ride your horse (or catch a tram) to the dark and moody Longhorn Saloon Carlton, for a Ned Kelly-inspired four-course feast. The evening will star all-Victorian produce, meats and seafood grilled over native woods and matches to local beer and wine.
Get into the sprit with some live bushranger music and special brews to match each course.
http://www.melbournefoodandwine.com.au/program/ned-kellys-last-meal-6514
Bellarine Bounty! Tomato Celebration & Seaside Lunch
Perfect for: keen gardeners and tomato enthusiasts
Another Melbourne escape, this seaside banquet promises to be a beautiful local experience of fresh produce and the natural surrounds of Swan Bay.
The tour will be led by permaculture gardener Ben Shaw and will include wine tastings at Basils Farm, prosecco and antipasti while you learn about sustainable farming practices and get to know your heirloom tomato varieties.
Then enjoy a long lunch overlooking the Bay. What a life!
