New Years’ Eve

Make it a night to remember

Party the night away 🍾🥂✨ If you’re looking for an epic way to say goodbye to 2023 and hello to 2024 👋🏼 then check out the NYE celebrations at New York’s top spots like Harbor, MUSICA, Bounce, PHD Rooftop as well as M2 MIAMI with 50 Cent, and more! 🪩 You can truly make it a night to remember as each event has a stellar open bar, amazing tunes and stellar vibes 🎶 You can even level up with VIP access and more! 🥂🔥 Tickets are on sale now - check out the link below for more! And make sure to use my discount code TOEATLIST for 10% off all NYE tickets! 🎟️ See you there! 💕

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AMBASSADORXO

Macy’s Wine Shop

The best way to sip this summer

If you click the link below and you can get 3 FREE bottles of wine from Macy’s Wine Shop!

You’re moments away from rosé all day and other delicious summer sips. You just need to be 21 years old or over, and pay for shipping.

Get ready to sip sip hooray!

Dessert dreams

Chocolate Dip

An amazing day at Chocolate Dip NYC - where my wildest chocolate dreams came true!

From chocolate fettuccine crepes to waffles with decadent chocolate drizzles and all your favorite toppings, like home made brownies and gingery delicious louts cookie biscuits - there’s something for very sweet tooth!

I was recently lucky enough to try it out and I loved.every.last.bite.

Thank you for bringing my dessert dreams to life!

Magic Hour at the Pink Winter Lodge

Moxy Hotel Times Square

Tickled pink!

What better way to spend your weekend than brunching in the winter wonderland that is the fabulous Magic Hour at the Pink Winter Lodge on the 18th floor of the Moxy Hotel Times Square?

I can’t think of anywhere else where you can get your brunch cocktails on with cotton candy, delicious sweet treats and savory food with a one of a kind view.

Happy Hour at Home

Midnight Bar

Fancy a Friday night cocktail experience in the comfort of your own home?

While I miss going out in lockdown so a bartender can whip me up a delicious cocktail, I think I’ve found the next best thing. Midnight Bar has a selection of their amazing cocktails bottled that you can purchase so you can have the Midnight Bar experience at home!

You can find their online store via the link on their page, which is a site specifically for ACT residents and is pick up only. There you’ll find the Braddon Merchant bottled cocktails like these two - as well as their Martini and Manhattan.

They also have a fantastic range of wine bundles available along with a range of canned/bottled beers, all at 50% off the in-venue pour price!

Personally, I can never say no to a classic negroni and old fashioned, and I can vouch that these pre-bottled versions are absolutely amazing!

Not only is the packaging to die for, but the cocktails inside are delicious and perfectly balanced. The Negroni is beautiful - the vermouth and orange garnish add enough fruity sweetness to balance out the bitter notes. The old fashioned is also perfect - rich with a smooth and silky aftertaste.

I know what my plans are for Friday night drinks - and I can’t wait to try their other flavours next time!

Paddock to Plate

Claystone Meats

Talk about a true paddock to plate experience! I think this has got to be the most wholesome and healthy delicious meal I’ve had during the whole of lockdown (and probably even before that)!

Claystone Meats practice ethical, sustainable farming methods to produce the best locally grown premium beef that is antibiotic and hormone free. From that first juicy bite, you can taste the difference.

Claystone Meats are the same team behind Brodburger as well as the local and family run beef farm Claystone Beef - so you already know it’s gonna be amazing!

Claystone Meats partners with local businesses to supply the best sustainably grown beef, straight from their paddocks to your plate - by connecting chefs and consumers straight to their farmer. Brodburger have always been looking for the best quality meats and ingredients to use in their premium products, and so the perfect partnership was born, recognising the importance of using local for the impact on the economy and the planet.

They have a complete chill chain from start to end – keeping meat in a 2-degree environment throughout the entire process from cut, mincing, and packaging in their own cool room.

I was recently lucky enough to receive an amazing meat pack to cook at home, including premium dry aged T-bone, bone-in ribeye, Brod beef patties and Benstpoke sausages as well as an incredible array of beautiful fresh fruit and veg, bread and gourmet smoked salt.

My in-house personal chef (AKA boyfie) got to work and whipped us up a delicious meal of the dry aged T-bone with broccolini, asparagus, sweet potato fries and a soy garlic jus. And it was AH-MA-ZING!

The beef was exceptional - rich in taste and texture, and the produce was perfect - fit for a chef-hatted meal in the comfort of your home. So if you’re feeling inspired to whip up something as delicious as this yourself, then this might be the perfect time to get started in lockdown! Let your creative juices flow, and trust me - your taste buds will thank you!

Happy National Cheeseburger Day!

BurgerHero

Happy National Cheeseburger Day!!!

What better way to commemorate the momentous occasion than with a thick and juicy burg from BurgerHero!

Also right now, for a limited time only, if you spend over $100 you can score yourself a 20% off card for your next visit!

Right now in lockdown they are open and ready with takeaway and delivery through their BurgerHero app and DoorDash.

Top question is - are you gonna get a cheeseburger or maybe a lil sth sth extra while you’re perusing the menu? I always love trying Burger Hero’s amazing specials and Freak Burgers - there’s always something delicious and exciting I find myself unable to resist. I was recently lucky enough to get some takeaway and so had to get a cheeseburger (obvi), and I also added some sneaky cheese-gazm extras like mac and cheese to satisfy my inner cheese freak YUM!

I also couldn’t resist a major fave - the My Hombre - an awesome burger loaded with double BH smashed beef patties, corn chips, American chilli con carne, jalapeño poppers, salsa and sour cream; as well as their delicious chili cheese waffle fries. HOMG it was all SO AMAZING!

The cheeseburger is perfect - BurgerHero really nails the quintessential balance of cheese to beef and sauce, and those hand smashed patties are to die for. So beautifully juicy with the freshest of their ingredients and tasty sauces - it’s really next level.

Another thing I love about BurgerHero is that you can enjoy it along with some delicious drinks - like their great selection of craft beers.

As always, an incredibly delicious feast! Thanks for having us Burger Hero and keeping our burger dreams alive in lockdown - I my can’t wait to come back again already!

Lockdown luxe

The Sugar Deli

IDK about you, but I’m finding that lockdown provides no defense to my sweet tooth addiction - if anything it amplifies it! #addicted

So it’s definitely a case for the online dessert dealer. That’s right, enter The Sugar Deli - who cures the common case of sweet tooth every time, never failing to deliver the goods. For the uninitiated, The Sugar Deli is a digital dessert parlour and local Canberra business which offers a range of fabulous treats, all baked fresh daily by hand.

I was recently lucky enough to have one of their AH-MA-ZING boxes of goodies delivered in lockdown. It came packed to the brim with a selection of amazing treats, including a ginormous vanilla slice, scrumptious cannolis filled with cookies n cream & lemon fillings, rocky road, caramel slice, raspberry and pistachio buttercream-filled almond meringue macarons; lemon meringue tart; and an incredible croissant-doughnut pastry with custard filling topped with white chocolate shavings.

I’M NOT DROOLING YOU’RE DROOLING #Sorrynotsorry! Everything was in incredible - so fresh and so many delicious flavours and textures. So if you’re looking to get your fix and brighten your lockdown day or someone else’s, then make sure to check them out!

Devilishly good

Little Lucifer

If you’re looking to treat yourself to a delicious meal to-go in lockdown then make sure to check out Little Lucifer in Braddon. They have just launched a new menu and it.is.AMAZING

I was recently lucky enough to try it out and was blown away! This isn’t your usual takeaway joint. This is what happens when amazing chefs who normally create five star fine dining cuisine turn their hand to takeaway options in a time of lockdown - and they’ve hit it out of the park. This is what big juicy burgers and luscious meats should be all about!

I tried the Asian Style Pork Belly which was served atop mash and with a side salad and tangy dressing; Lucifer’s Works Burger with prime beef patty, bacon, caramelised onion, beetroot, pineapple, cheese, lettuce, tomato sauce on a classic bun with fries; the Crispy Chicken Burger with marinated spicy chicken breast southern fried in Lucifer’s secret spice, coleslaw, bacon, cheese sauce and hash brown on a milk bun with fries; and the spicy Buffalo chicken wings served with side salad.

Every bite was magical - so many different flavours to savour in every mouthful, and that southern fry chicken OMG!

It’s something to give the Colonel a run for his money. I loved every bite and can’t wait to come back again already!

Bao-tiful

Super Bao

Calling all food lovers - Super Bao in Dickson has just launched a new menu, and it is phenomenal!

Their Australian-Asian fusion menu is inspired by traditional Chinese food and family recipes. Ever since it’s beginnings as one of ACT’s most popular baos, their presence at Verity Lane and their feature restaurant in Dickson - they’ve been serving up their delicious and creative steamed buns and creating a vast menu of delicious meals with a unique and modern take.

From crispy duck baos and double honey glazed BBQ pork to lobster spring rolls - there’s definitely something every foodie will love!

We were recently lucky enough to be invited and started with the soft shell crab bao with wasabi mayo on a cuttlefish ink bao bun; and the pork larb lettuce wrap with minced pork and seasoned fried garlic.

For mains we tried the black pepper pork ribs with house black pepper sauce; the coconut chicken curry with tofu skin and potato; the OSAKA seafood pancake with prawn, takoyaki, bonito flakes, Japanese Mayo and Okonomi sauce; and the green beans in XO sauce.

And WOW - everything we ate was. SO. delicious! Every bite was so fresh with complex flavour combinations that work together just perfectly. Each dish showcased their innovative approach to delicious modern fusion cuisine.

Plus, they also have amazing drinks including an impressive range of cocktails! I tried the Yuzu-Rin Sour with gin infused mandarin, Yuzu Saito, mint, lime and egg white; and the ‘White’ espresso martini with vanilla vodka, espresso and condensed milk - both of which were so beautiful!

I can’t wait to come back again and try more of their new dishes already, and I strongly recommend you do too!

Tea, coffee and delicious baked treats

85C Bakery Cafe

Fancy a delicious dessert and tea in a stunning floral oasis? Well that’s exactly what you’ll get at the brand new 85c Canberra bakery cafe in the city!

As soon as you approach and walk through the arched doorway you are surrounded by gorgeous floral motifs and the most stunning pink interior - with velvet covered chairs, marbled tables and beautiful lighting.

They serve everything from bubble tea to matcha tea and also Campos coffee. They also have a huge selection of international desserts and breads. Think multi-layered frosted cakes, cheesy breads, chocolate eclairs and more!

Everything was so delicious - with delicious and rich sweet and savory flavours, and generous serves of all the good stuff like decadent cream. What’s more, if you want to stay in you can get them delivered thanks to Easicanberra.

I was recently lucky enough to be invited on their opening day and loved every minute! The venue has such a great vibe - a beautiful interior, delicious eats and drinks, and a warm and welcoming team. I can’t wait to come back again already!

Pick and mix your way!

YHG Malatang

Feel like a big delicious bowl of hot and spicy soup? I know I did with our -3 start to the day!

At YHG Malatang you can hand pick as much (or as little) of everything to your heart’s desire for a bowl of soup or dry noodles. Located right near No Name Lane in the city, you start with a pick and mix of whatever you want in your bowl - from veggies, to meats, tofu and all different types of noodles.

Then, you weigh your bowl and choose your soup / dry noodle base - spicy please for me! Then voila - you wait a few minutes and your dish is ready!

If you want you can add in some sauces like chili, sesame peanut butter, Szechuan oil, mixed garlic, sugar, vinegar. I topped mine with garlic, sesame PB and chili and Szechuan oil (of course!).

And WOW - it was so delicious! I love the bone soup broth and the light Laksa spicy flavour - complex with so many deep flavours. And I loved how I could add more flavor with the extra sauces and had everything I wanted (and nothing I didn’t) in my bowl - as I got to choose every ingredient!

If you haven’t been yet, then make sure you pay them a visit! Thanks for having me - can’t wait to come again!

Dumpling Heaven

Dumpling Social

Do you love dumplings? Do you love truffles? Cuz at Dumpling Social you can combine these best of both worlds, and more!

With a brand new truffle menu to compliment their existing delicious menu of dumplings, share plates, curry, rice and noodle dishes – Dumpling Social has something for everyone’s taste.

Dumpling Social is a fabulous modern Asian restaurant serving up your classes faves with a modern twist. I was recently lucky enough to be invited and tried a number of fantastic dishes.

I tried the charred cauliflower dish with kimchi couli, whipped tofu, vegan cheese and nori; their cheeseburger spring rolls with wagyu beef; spicy pork and prawn wontons; Wagyu beef dumplings wrapped in beetroot infused pastry; korma curry with the most perfectly crispy spiced confit duck leg; Szechuan Dan Dan noodles with pork belly, peanut, seaweed, onsen egg; and rice.

And wow - it. was. all. AMAZING! I love the modern take on classic faves - with authentic and complex Szechuan flavours and western influences combined to give a delicious flavour explosion! The serves were very generous and just so damn tasty.

Right in the middle of Woden’s trendy Bradley Street Dining precinct, Dumpling Social has a fantastic vibe with a welcoming team and chic and colorful interior. What’s more, it’s fully licensed so you can enjoy a glass of wine, beer, cocktail or sake with your meal! I loved trying their Sakes which came on ice and were super refreshing - the perfect compliment to our fabulous meal.

I loved every minute and can’t wait to come back again already!

Winter warming done right

Wild Panda

What could be better than a warming hot bowl of spicy soup, wontons and dumplings? When we barely reach double digits on these cold wintery Canberra days, it’s the perfect way to warm up and give your taste buds a treat of bold and rich flavours!

From share plates and hot rice dishes, dry and soup noodles, to hot dumplings, spice and stir fry and even desserts – Wild Panda has something for everyone’s taste. I love how they are uncompromising on authenticity with hot and spicy Sichuan dishes like pork rib noodle soup and Dan Dan noodles, but they also have a great selection of dishes with modern western influences like cheeseburger spring rolls and popcorn chicken, as well as healthy vegetarian options like tofu salad.

And don’t worry if you’re not the most tolerant for spice – as you can choose how spicy (or not!) you want your dish to be. I’m a spicy and saucy gal, so I turned mine right up – and loved it! What’s more, the atmosphere is great with a cool space, good tunes and everything they offer comes at an accessible price point with generous serves - so you don’t have to break the bank for a delicious authentic meal out.

I was recently lucky enough to be invited and on this visit tried the popcorn chicken; the fried pork belly share plates; the duck fried rice; and Dan Dan noodles. And HOMG everything we ate was SOOOO delicious!

The passion behind every bowl really does come out in each bite – and as Wild Panda says, each mouthful is rich in adventure! Such complex flavours, and delicious spices with hearty serves. I loved every last bite (and slurp) and can’t wait to come back again already!

Howling High Tea

The Howling Moon

Spectacular city views, sweet and savoury bites, bubbles and cocktails in a sun-drenched oasis in the city - If this is up your alley too then make sure to check our the Howling High Tea at the Canberra Rex Hotel!

I was recently lucky enough to be invited it was amazing! The howling high tea features delicious bite sized sweet and savory treats which generously adorn a triple-tiered display.

From smoked salmon cream cheese and caviar crepes, hoisin duck burger, Thai chicken sausage rolls and Parmesan truffle twists to rhubarb coconut sage bowls, macarons and passion fruit pavlova and fresh scones with cream chantilly and raspberry jam - there’s something for everyone’s palate.

Everything we ate was phenomenal, with generous serves and layers of delicious flavours in each bite - so fresh, herbaceous and beautifully presented. The Howling Moon is a fabulous rooftop bar connected to The Swan & King featuring fabulous cocktails like the Sunset Spritz and Pretty in Pink - that taste just as amazing as they look.

I can’t wait to come back again! Check out their website to find out when the next high tea sessions are on!

Beautiful brunching

Forrest Specialty Coffee

Idk about you, but I’m all for sleeping in on the weekend, so I love a place that serves up delicious all day breakfast.

If that’s your bag too, then make sure to add Forrest Specialty Coffee to your list of regular go-to brunch destinations - from savory to sweet brunch and lunch dishes, great kids options and another whole dedicated menu to coffee - it’s a coffee and brunch foodie’s paradise!

I was recently lucky enough to be invited and loved every bite and sip, starting with a piping hot cup of Ona Coffee raspberry candy cappuccino and the Columbia Fantasia filter brew.

For brunch I tried the Forrest mushroom Benedict with poached eggs, grilled asparagus, double brie, hollandaise, forrest mushroom, paprika and walnut dukkah, English muffin plus double smoked bacon; and the potato rosti dish which came with poached eggs, hollandaise, maple glazed bacon, tomato salsa, cheesy chipolata plus a side of forrest mushrooms. I also couldn’t resist trying their tempura haloumi nuggets which were so damn good.

Everything was so delicious - so fresh with layers of delicious flavours, not to mention beautiful presentation.

The venue has a great vibe - a beautiful interior, good tunes, and a very welcoming team - making it a perfect oasis! I can’t wait to come back again already.

Canadian canned cocktails and more!

Caribou

What do you do in lockdown when you can’t eat in the place where it’s easy to have a good time? You just get it from there TO-GO!

Caribou have definitely made it easy for us to keep having a good time in lockdown by making all their delicious home-style Canadian comfort food to takeaway, as well as canning their draught beer straight from their taps, with caesars to go, bottles of maple liqueur, and canned cocktails. UM YES PLEASE!

Today I was lucky enough to get some goodies to take home and loved every bite - and sip!

I tried their Cauliflower Poppers - tender deep fried morsels of cauli with ranch dressing; and their Pickleback Pizza with Whiskey essence bbq base, maple bacon, red onion, cheese, capsicum and pickles with mustard aioli - oh and I added mac and cheese balls on top. OMG everything was AH-MA-ZING!!

So fresh, with so many delicious flavours - the pizza was absolutely loaded to the brim with the good stuff, and the cauli was cooked to crispy perfection. Who knew veggies could taste so good!!!

For cocktails we loved their ‘Elkspresso Martini’ and their ‘Lockdown Iso-tea’ - a spicy little number with Fireball. They were the perfect complement to the meal and went down an absolute treat - so refreshing with every sip perfectly balanced.

Thank you Caribou for continuing to bring the good times to us in lockdown! I can’t wait to come back again already! Make sure you stop by Caribou soon for a good time to-go or order delivery online.

The Stay Inn

The Pop Inn

By now if you’re like me you’re already a fan of The Pop Inn, Canberra’s local wine bar that’s constantly on the move – popping up in various locations in Canberra like Bowen Park, The Carillon and Queen Elizabeth Terrace.

But did you know that now The Pop Inn has now launched an online wine store? It brings their delicious wine that you have come to love to YOU so you can Stay Inn!

You can pick up from them, or they can deliver to you in Canberra, and there is free delivery on two bottles or more – so get your order ready! I know I can’t think of a better way to spend one of these frosty nights in that we’re having at the moment.

Think hand-selected wines from the Hilltops NSW, the Barossa, France or Port from Portugal. Or if you can’t decide, you can try a blind tasting pack! I was recently lucky enough to try their own brand new wine Pop Inn red, made with love with Tscharke Wines which was beautiful. This Shiraz Cabernet blend features dark fruit and red berries with a hint of pepper on the nose and has a gorgeous deep red hue.

Not only that, but it is organic and comes from a biodynamic farm and winery in the Barossa which operates with sustainable practices, so it’s something you can feel good about sipping – in more ways than one! I know I can’t wait to have my next glass already.

Good golly miss Dolly

Dolly’s

Amazing cocktails, delicious food, live music and an awesome atmosphere in the city - yes please!

It’s definitely a vibe at Dolly’s in Canberra City. I was recently lucky enough to be invited and absolutely loved every minute, bite and sip.

They have a fabulous range of cocktails, including Piña Coladas with Havana Club 3, De Kuyper apricot, starward two-fold, lime, coco reàl and fresh pineapple; Lychee sorbet cocktails with Cape Grim 666 vodka, soho lychee, lillet blanc, lychee and lemon; the East Thai Side with Beefeater gin, St. Germaine elderflower and fresh Thai nectar; and my top fave - the jalapeño margarita with chili infused corazón blanco, Marie Brizard triple sec, fresh jalapeño, lime and agave. All were SO damn good!

For eats we tried the crispy potato scallops with sriracha Mayo; the grilled chicken tacos on fresh flour tortillas with jalapeño verde and watercress; the tempura cauliflower florets with satay sauce, fried onion and pickled cucumber; the twice cooked pork belly baos with slaw and pickled cucumber; and the Roast Kent pumpkin with slow roasted pumpkin, quinoa, dukkah, watercress, feta cream and pomegranate verjus dressing.

Everything was really so delicious - the crisp coating on the scallops and the tempura cauli was to dye for. The pork belly was perfectly cooked with a delicious glaze. The tacos were fresh and just the right amount of spicy and the pumpkin was delicious and beautifully complemented by the feta cream.

What’s more, we dined and drank to smooth tunes from live music and the atmosphere was so welcoming with a friendly and professional team who know their stuff. Can’t wait to come back again already!

Burgs, boujee booze and boogie beats

The Tradies Disco Night

Beautiful burgs, boujee booze, and a boogie with badass beats - what could be better?!

My Saturday night was awesome, spent with friends at The Tradies enjoying delicious burgers and cocktails and dancing the night away to the beats of DJ Sue. I was recently invited to their disco night and had a fabulous time!

The Tradies has an awesome menu in their bistro featuring faves like beef nachos and several burgers - think pulled pork, grilled chicken, and beef with cheese and bacon. The burgers were delicious - generously sized and loaded with all the good stuff, served with hot and crispy fries.

We also loved trying some of their recent cocktails of the month, from espresso martinis to cosmopolitans and the classic fruit tingle!

DJ Sue has developed a cult following in recent times after going viral and it’s easy to see why - she had the dance floor packed from the moment she set up - right til the end of the night!

So of you’re looking for a way to spice up your Saturday night then make sure to keep your eyes peeled for the next disco night! I know I can wait to come back again.

A Turkish Delight

Zeytin Turkish Cuisine

Delicious and authentic Turkish fine dining overlooking night lights on the lake - a Turkish delight!

What could be a better way to warm up on one of these chilly canberra nights? The food is incredible, so I couldn’t wait to come back to Zeytin Turkish Cuisine on the Kingston Foreshore.

I was recently lucky enough to be invited and on this visit started with local Canberra wine and a trio of delicious dips with the most delicious homemade fried bread - a special family recipe passed down from Chef Metin’s mother.

We then tried the Ali Nazik - lamb short fillet on top of smoked eggplant dip with herbs and spices served with hot and fresh traditional Turkish bread; and the feta spring rolls - handmade pastry filled with feta cheese and spinach.

For mains we had the prawn skewers - chargrilled king prawns infused with garlic and olive oil served with Turkish rice and steamed vegetables; and the grilled lamb cutlets marinated with oregano, Turkish spices and topped with jus served with bulgur pilaf and vegetables.

Just as I remembered, everything we ate was so delicious. So many fresh and beautifully complex flavours with generous serves - a truly sensational meal. So if you haven’t already visited (or even if you have!) make sure you stop by soon and have chef Metin wow you with his fantastic creations!

Amazing Space

Space Kitchen

Unicorn waffles, R18+ rated milkshakes, heavenly cakes, brunch and lunch - YES please!

If you haven’t yet tried their new menu, then my advice is: run, don’t walk!

I always love visiting Space so couldn’t wait to try it out after hearing the news. On this visit we started with the salted caramel hot chocolate topped with caramel popcorn and the Nutella shake - both loaded with lashings of the good stuff.

Then for meals we had the Space Benedict with maple glazed bacon, smoked hollandaise, poached eggs and creamed corn all atop a bed of delicious Parmesan polenta chip; and their brûlée French toast with fresh strawberries, lemon curd, vanilla mascarpone, chai spiced strawberry compote drizzled with an amazing caramelised white chocolate and topped with meringue.

And despite how full I was, when I’m at Space there’s always space in my tummy for cake - because they are phenomenal! On this visit I tried the salted caramel cake with caramel mousse, vanilla crème, a delicious salted caramel centre and topped with a rich glaze and caramel popcorn.

One word: AMAZING! Everything we ate and sipped was so delicious. The creations at Space are truly next level - with such fresh and innovative combinations of complex flavours that pop in your mouth, right down to the very last delectable bite. What’s more, everything is so beautifully presented - like colourful works of art and a grammer’s dream.

Thank you so much for having us - we loved every minute and will be dreaming of these meals for days to come!

Burgs on the go

Rise & Grind Company

Fancy a deliciously juicy burg for lunch or early in the am?

Rise & Grind has got you covered for all your burger and fries desires. Rise & Grind is a small canberra business that has just opened a new location in the heart of the city at 2 London Circuit, with an awesome menu of delicious and hearty burgers, fries and toasties - and they are open bright and early from 5.30am to 2pm weekdays.

From double egg and bacon rolls, cheeseburgers and grilled chicken burgers to fries and even a healthy start option - there’s something for all different tastes.

I was recently lucky enough to be invited to stop by and tried their brekky burger with a grilled beef patty, American cheese, crispy bacon, fried egg, hash brown, onions, bbq and house sauce on a toasted brioche bun; their southern fry chicken burger with lettuce and mayo on a toasted brioche bun with bacon and cheese add-ons. And couldn’t go past their loaded fries with melted cheese, crispy bacon and lashings of gravy AND their new loaded fries option with bacon and American cheesy sauce HOMG.

Everything was SO damn delicious - hot, fresh and tasty with generous serves. Cooked fresh to order in no time to at all - so I was back on my way to work, with a very satisfied tummy!

So if you haven’t checked them out yet then make sure you stop by soon! I can’t wait to come back again already

Stars under the stars

Chant Du Vin music and wine festival

What an amazing evening at Chant Du Vin in the gorgeous vineyards at The Vintner’s Daughter - sipping on delicious wine and loving the music of some our fantastic Aussie musicians!

Chant du Vin is a fabulous music and wine festival that has been travelling around Australia to offer an exclusive wine experience like no other – and lucky for us, they stopped over in Canberra so we could enjoy the show over four special nights from Thursday - through to Sunday.

On Saturday I was lucky enough to enjoy the VIP experience and be invited aboard the top viewing deck of the famous Aviary luxury double decker bus, as well as an exclusive premium wine tasting session with beautiful wines personally selected by the winemakers at The Vintner’s Daughter.

Chant Du Vin offers the unique opportunity where you can enjoy acoustic performances in an intimate setting by amazing home grown musical talent Sarah McLeod of The Superjesus, Kav Temperley of Eskimo Joe and Mahalia Barnes. An unforgettable moment being when Sarah McLeod came up into the bus mid-set to sing to us!

Add in some delicious wines and food direct from the cellar throughout the performances - and well, it just doesn’t get much better than that in my books!

Level up your night out

1Up

What an amazing launch of the brand new 1 Up bar in the heart of the city!

Aptly named, 1 Up is on level 1 of the Sydney Building on Northbourne, right above its sister bar Reload Bar.

With creative cocktails on point and amazing food by the brains behind Token this new bar is a fantastic new addition to the night scene.

Not to one up you (see what I did there 😉) but have you been around long enough to remember the famous ICBM? Cuz you’d never know this was almost right on top of the same site. The space has been renovated beautifully, with vintage-style festoon lighting adorning the high beamed ceilings, and exposed brick details adding a touch of rustic charm.

There are multiple spacious rooms decked out with sofas dedicated to karaoke and games, as well as two large areas catering to pool tables. I was lucky enough to be invited to their private launch party tonight to welcome the brand new digs and I can confirm it is awesome!

Tonight we loved trying their fancy cocktails from the Princess Bubblegum and Poison Ivy to the Blue Milk and the goblet of fire. Also loved their awesome new food menu additions like loaded onion rings (something I used to special request back in the Soul Cartel Hamlet days), Jambalaya balls (think risotto balls + chorizo YUM), and deep fried pork belly bites - HOMG so good!

So make sure to check it out if you’re looking to level up your next night out!

All aboard the wine tram!

The Canberra Wine House

Drink, eat, and relax - sound good? Pouring wine and serving food four nights a week from Wednesdays to Saturdays, that’s exactly what you can do at The Canberra Wine House.

With an inviting atmosphere akin to a 1920s speakeasy, you’ll find it nestled within the Dickson dining precinct. Surrounded by rich history, there’s even a vintage tram that was airlifted in from Bondi - so you can be all aboard the wine train if you so please!

As you know, I’m all about supporting Canberra businesses, so one of the many things I love about The Canberra Wine House is it’s love for all things local - boasting a fabulous wine menu based exclusively around Canberra and the region’s extraordinary wineries and local produce.

What’s more, they have delicious eats to go with your choice of tipple, from beautiful cheese boards to pizzas, dips, olives and more. You can buy by the glass or the bottle. They also have a great range of cocktails as well as locally brewed beer and cider.

I was recently lucky enough to be invited to visit and loved trying their Canberra Charcuterie board which includes a selection of cured meats, cheese, pâté, olives, pickles, nuts and toasted bruschetta as well as their veggi pizza with delicious roasted vegetables and mozzarella cheese.

After some wine tasting it was a tough choice with so many wonderful wines but we settled on a bottle of Linear’s Fiano and Sholto’s Syrah. Everything we ate was so fresh and delicious, with hearty serves - and perfectly complimented by the fantastic local wines.

What a wonderful way to spend the afternoon! I cannot wait to come back again already.

Flaming hot Korean Charcoal BBQ

The Tasty Hill

What could be a better way to end a chilly day in Canberra than by indulging in some delicious Korean charcoal barbecue? Cooked right in front of your eyes exactly to your liking with delicious aromas filling the air - it is definitely one of my favourite ways to warm up!

The Tasty Hill is a brand new restaurant in the heart of the city featuring authentic Korean charcoal barbecue, in addition to a huge range of other fantastic entrees (think potato noodle, sashimi, tofu canapé, waffle pancake), stews, noodles, sizzling meats and fried chicken and prawn main meals.

I was recently lucky enough to be invited and absolutely loved the special Korean bbq Wagyu platter which comes packed with chuck roll, oyster blade, flap meat and rib finger, as well as the soy marinated wagyu rib finger.

To start we enjoyed the entree chili and prawn tempura dish (which was like a delicious jalapeño pepper filled with a king prawn) as well as the crispy dumplings. We can also never resist fried chicken so we tried the Hill’s fried chicken!

Everything was really so delicious - so fresh with such rich and complex flavours. The wagyu was phenomenal on its own, having been marinated in delicious flavours - and the side sauces and accompaniment dishes brought out the flavours even more.

We topped it all off with some lovely wine, some refreshing soda and grape soju, and Korean plum tea with lemon which perfectly complimented the delicious flavours of the meal.

The interior of The Tasty Hill is lovely with a warm atmosphere and tastefully designed booths with sliding doors, and the team is so knowledgeable and friendly - I just can’t wait to come back again already!

Lakeside eats, drinks and live music

Magoos Cafe & Bar

Happy hour, fantastic food, live music and games - have I got your attention yet?!

Magoo's Cafe & Bar on the Kingston Foreshore has it all, and more - right at the Foreshore. They have just released their new menu this week, with a delicious range of food and great cocktails and we were lucky enough to be invited to come check it out.

From buffalo wings and salt & pepper squid to twice cooked Maryland duck and winter salad - there's something for all tastes. What's more, with live music every Thursday, Friday and Saturday, week day happy hours, and games to borrow - there's always plenty to keep you entertained.

On this visit we started with some delicious cocktails: the Grapefruit Elderflower with gin, grapefruit juice and St Germain and the Chocolate Old Fashion with Makers Mark, agave and chocolate butters.

Then for dinner we had a main size serve of the crisp pork belly tacos with slaw, chipotle aoilo and coriander, and the sirloin steak with potato gratin and seasonal vegetables with diane gravy.

Everything we ate was so delicious - everything was super fresh and the flavour combinations were amazing with very generous serves. What’s more, we loved sipping our cocktails to the smooth sounds of live music, the glistening fairy lights all overlooking the beautiful lake. With it's great team, warm and welcoming atmosphere - we can't wait to come back again already!

Supporting small Canberran businesses

Maple & Elm Socials

What a fabulous way to spend the afternoon celebrating the launch of Maple & Elm Socials!

I was lucky enough to be invited to the launch party which was a beautiful community event held at the stunning event space at HQ Thirty Four.

The event featured an incredible DIY waffle station with fresh fruit, nutella, salted caramel and a phenomenal grazing station as well as beautiful picnic seating.

Jaimee is the owner and face behind the small local business Maple & Elm, driven by a passion for content creation and social media management - specifically aimed at small businesses, coming from a family of small business entrepreneurs herself.

The event showcased a boutique market featuring a range of small Canberra businesses presenting their gorgeous products.

What a fabulous event with delicious food and beverages - and amazing bespoke goodie bags! Thank you Maple & Elm Socials for having me - I can't wait to follow along your exciting journey!

Wine and chocolate fudge pairing

Taste Local festival

Loving last night’s Wine & Chocolate Pairing Workshop at Canberra Centre with Lake George Winery partnering with Fudgmental!

This event marked the beginning of the month-long Taste Local Festival happening at the Canberra Centre this May, featuring some of the best local wineries, distilleries, produce and music in Canberra. And what better way to start an evening than by learning some of the best tips and tricks of the trade from local artisans while sampling gourmet Autumnal produce and delicious wine, listening to some fantastic live music in a gorgeous setting?!

Lake George Winery is a family owned and operated local winery. With handpicked grapes and sustainable practices, their wine is vegan friendly and simply divine.

Fudgemental fudge is a local business dedicated to creating soft premium chocolate that comes in a range of creamy and decadent flavours that will keep you coming back for more!

I was lucky enough to be invited tonight and got to explore a number of pairings - and while it was a tough choice, my favourite was the Chardonnay paired with the pear, macadamia and apple fudge.

If you missed out on tonight’s event, don’t fret - as there’s a range of workshops over the next few weeks where you can enjoy locally produced wines, spirits, local cheese, chocolates and fudges. Just make sure you plan ahead and book your spot online before tickets sell out!

An exquisite dinner

Sweet Pea Catering Wines of Hall dinner at The Manor

What an incredible evening at Sweet Pea Catering's exclusive Wines of Hall paired wine dinner in the spectacular interiors of The Manor.

I was recently lucky enough to be invited to this fine dining experience set over six exquisite courses, each of which based on the freshest of seasonal produce curated by the distinguished chefs at Sweet Pea Catering.

Each delicious course was paired perfectly with the best wines from Brindabella Hills Winery, Pankhurst Wines, Capital Wines, Surveyors Hill and Walleroo Wines.

Sweet Pea Catering is Canberra’s premium catering company operating out of both The Manor and Brindabella Winery, specialising in fictions including weddings, private dinners, corporate functions, and parties.

From confit duck leg served with quail egg, roasted aubergine, pumpkin in red curry matched with Marsanne; and asparagus and ricotta panda cotta with bacon and almond crumb, black garlic and Parmesan matched with Arneis; to beef short ribs with carrot, mustard purée, mushrooms and caramelised onion and jus matched with Shiraz - the meal was exceptional.

Their team is so professional, knowledgeable and friendly and The Manor offers a beautifully warm and elegant space with its striking renovated interior, chandeliers and fireplace.

What an unforgettable experience - I didn’t want it to end, and can’t wait to visit again soon!

Challenge accepted

Burger Hero

Burger Hero is home to a rotating list of amazing specials which I love trying.

I was recently invited and on this visit tried the Wonder Woman special burger with pulled pork, bacon, karagee chicken, mac and cheese and slaw - and needless to say, she was a thing of beauty, and DIVINE.

On this visit we also took on the epic Burger Hero challenge - an incredible burg featuring 800g of hand smashed beef patties layered with crispy bacon, American cheese and topped with sliced dill pickles and hero sauce - plus a side of waffle fries and a drink.

I’m not gonna lie - this bad boy is not for the faint hearted... But it was SO DAMN GOOD. The epic layers of beef and cheese were heavenly and perfectly offset by the fresh pickles and that sauce. You can really taste the difference with hand smashed patties - they are just so beautifully juicy and tasty. Add to that the freshness of their ingredients and beautiful sauces - whether you can complete the challenge in one sitting or not - you’re still winning.

Also, as if that wasn’t enough, I just can’t resist their chili cheese waffle fries - I just love that cheese!!! Then wash it all down with some iced cold beers - and well, it just doesn’t get much better than that!

As always, a delicious and hearty feast - and I can’t wait to come back again!i

My Sabor

Verity Lane

So excited to try the latest addition to Verity Lane Market, My Sabor on its opening night!

Sabor means flavour, and with its Modern Australian with South East Asian cuisine My Sabor is most definitely true to name, literally.

The new pop-up kitchen is the brainchild of Daniel Mark, the former head chef of The Lanterne Rooms, and part of The Charmain Group. The menu offers a range of starters and share plates.

Think fried crumbed taleggio olives; XO truffle oil egg custard; scallop, ginger and scallion risotto; rendang short rib tzatziki pita; Triple S prawn broccolini; flamed octopus with gremolata; crispy eggplant cherry tomato aglio olio; chili spiced spare ribs; and Indo dry rub roast chicken with mash.

Each of the dishes we tried were absolutely delicious - with complex and complementary flavours that make each ‘pop’. What’s more, the menu will be changed regularly so that you can try something new each time you visit!

My Sabor joins the impressive and delicious line up of existing vendors at Verity Lane, including Super Bao, Ramen Daddy, Pizza Artigiana, Pasta Artigiana, and Miss Wu Jianbing.

So make sure you visit soon - I know I can’t wait to come back again soon and try more.

Poked and Soaked!

Poked Cakes

Cake that’s been poked and soaked?! I am definitely woke!

I was recently lucky enough to try the share size version of the best-selling cake that inspired the concept of poked - the ‘tres leches’ cake - which means 3 kinds of milk.

This is a vanilla sponge cake that is poked and then soaked with 3 types of milk: evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream and then topped with meringue frosting. And as you can guess from the description, it was SO delicious. So fresh, light and fluffy yet beautifully rich in flavour.

Poked Cakes is a local Canberra small business specializing in these delicious cakes which are a cross between the style of soaked cakes well-loved in Brazil and Venezuela. The cakes are made fresh daily by hand, which you can taste from the very first bite. There are also other flavours of cakes available to take your fancy, including chocolate, strawberry and dulce de leche cakes.

What’s more, you can use my code TOEATLIST to get 20% off all orders placed on their website, once they are live at the end of the month!

Thank you Poked Cakes for the delicious treat - I can’t wait to lick my plate clean!

Salty sweet treats

My Sweet Lady

Salty, sweet and stunning!

These were my thoughts exactly when I laid my eyes (and mouth) on a gorgeous box of salted caramel cupcakes from My Sweet Lady.

My Sweet Lady is a local Canberra business and dessert shop known and loved for their amazing custom order cakes as well as their cupcakes and cookies which can be tailored for all sorts of occasions – from birthdays, to baby showers, holidays and other occasions you want to celebrate.

They offer a huge range of stunning cupcakes that are as beautiful to look at as they are to taste! From fairy bread cuppies to mini cupcakes, cupcakes decorated with elegant piped floral motifs – they have so many gorgeous options. They also create the cutest sugar cookies that can be custom made and decorated in all sorts of colours, designs with stamped lettering, gold leaf – you name it!

I was recently lucky enough to receive a box of salted caramel cupcakes which were absolutely delicious. IMO, salted caramel is something you either get or you don’t, and believe me they GET IT! Each bite was SO delicious – with a perfectly balanced salted caramel sauce atop a generous serve of butter cream frosting, all on top of a fresh moist cake – amazing! I’m also a huge fan of their frosting-to-cake ratio – if I could, I would just eat frosting all damn day!

They also offer vegan creations catering to those with dietaries, and offer delivery. So make sure you check them out if you want to try these beauties, or gift them to someone special in your life - and hope that they share with you!

Ooey gooey goodness!

Cinnaglaze

Ooey gooey delicious Nutella, caramilk, biscoff... and $10 off - have I got your attention yet???

If you're after the sweetest package, then check out the amazing new Cookie Box by Cinnaglaze. It comes packed with 6 delicious cookies of your choosing, each with their own Instagram-worthy filling ready to ooze out!

Think dulce de leche, rocky road, choc nutella, caramilk, lotusbiscoffau, cookies & cream, funfetti, smores and peanut butter choc. If you can't decide (and I don't blame you!) then you can let the team put together a selection for you with a Designer Cookie Box, with cookies rotating and changing each month.

And hot tip (literally) - if you zap these in the microwave for 20 seconds you will have the most deliciously gooey chocolate and other flavours oozing from your cookies! You can store the cookies up to 10 days or freeze them for 90 days - if you can resist the temptation!

It's speedy service with 1-3 day express delivery Australia-wide - so your friends and fam interstate can enjoy them too! You can even add in a greeting card, gift wrap and ribbon to make it an extra spesh gift.

Cinnaglaze is a 100% Australian small business which began as a local catering company in Canberra specialising in beautiful grazing tables, but had to change their operation dramatically in response to COVID-19. The team includes passionate culinary dessert chefs from the largest hotel providers in the country - which you can tell from every bite.

I was recently lucky enough to try their amazing Cookie Box, as part of Cinnaglaze's Australia-wide launch. Cinnaglaze's mission is to reach as many people as possible and bring a smile to their face, and I can confirm that's exactly what happened to me.

And lucky for you, I have a discount code you can use to get $10 off your order - so you can be grinning from ear to ear soon too!

Happy Fricken Birthday!

Fricken

Happy FRICKEN birthday!

I cannot believe it’s already been a year since it opened it’s doors on Lonsdale. We were recently lucky enough to be invited to the celebrations, and boy do they know how to party!

Live music from Iced Tea Duo, gelato from Mellabellagelato, beers from Wild Polluy Brews and Capital Brewing Co, and of course that ah-ma-zing fried chicken of theirs, not to mention their burgs, fries, mash and more!

Thanks for such a fab time Fricken - can’t wait to come back again already!

Wonderful Wagyu

KorBQ

Thick and juicy premium Australian Wagyu cooked in front of your eyes on hot flames... have I got your attention yet??!!

KorBQ has recently introduced a delicious premium wagyu set to its extensive Korean BBQ menu - and it is AH-MA-ZING!

With its unique take of modern Korean and Japanese cuisine adapted for Western culture while retaining elements of tradition, KorBQ is inspired by its passionate multi-cultural team and always comes up with the goods. Their new wagyu set joins their existing extensive menu of delicious dishes - from Bibimbap, soup and fried chicken to noodles and more.

We were recently lucky enough to be invited to visit and tried their wagyu beef set of tender loin, rib eye and rump cap as well as pork belly, mixed mushrooms and butternut pumpkin - and it was all incredible. Such beautiful tender cuts of meat, complimented by delicious sauces that bring out the complex flavours in every bite - and all cooked fresh right in front of our eyes on the table.

The BBQ was complemented perfectly by their entrees of fried chicken skin cracking; Korean chili eggplant coated in their famous sweet chili sauce; and japche with beef brisket, mung bean noodle, veg and julienned egg with homemade soy sauce - which were all amazing.

We also can’t resist their original fried chicken with both the Korean garlic soy sauce and homemade white sauce - the chicken was so perfectly crispy and the sauces had such rich and deliciously balanced flavours.

And to wash it all down, we tried their soju gria - a refreshing blend of soju, wine and seasonal fruit.

With attentive and knowledgeable staff and a welcoming atmosphere, we loved every minute - and can’t wait to come back again!

Happy 50th, Canberra Wine District!

Canberra Wine Week VIP Market Tasting event

Did you know that the Canberra Wine District turns 50 this year? I’ll toast to that! #HappyBirthday

This momentous occasion makes for even more reason to celebrate over the 2021 Canberra Wine Week, and I am so excited to mark the occasion. And what better way to celebrate, than by being a VIP at this years Canberra Wine Week Market Tasting event by the Canberra District Wine Industry Association at aMBUSHGallery at the Kambri precinct at ANU.

was recently lucky enough to be invited and it was ah-ma-zing. We got to meet the winemakers, enjoy delicious cheese and charcuterie, and of course – taste some incredible local Canberra wines!

There were over 60 wines on offer at the annual Wine Tasting event hosted this year in the Kambri Precinct in Acton, showcasing the diversity of our cool climate wine district. Everyone got the opportunity to sample wines, buy by the glass or the bottle to share with friends in the Courtyard and check out the Don’t Shoot The Messenger exhibition at aMBUSH Gallery.

The great news is, this is just the start - as the annual Canberra District Wine Week has only just begun - for a 10 day festival of fabulous events! From cellar door museum wine tastings and dinners to vineyard pilates, art exhibitions and musical soirées - there’s a multitude of ways to discover and celebrate our fantastic wine region this year. So see you soon, and cheers!

Craft beer and cider - tickets and tastings!

Canberra Craft Beer & Cider Festival

Absolutely loving the opportunity to try so many craft beers and ciders today. The annual Canberra Craft Beer & Cider Festival is happening now! And while I can’t say we’ve tried every single brew out of the 250 on offer today - we have definitely made a solid dent!

Located at the back of Mercure Canberra @mercurecanberra the festival features breweries from all over the country, as well as an awesome range of food stalls, live music and entertainment, a charity raffle and a wide range of kids’ activities.

We are loving sampling beers from our fave local breweries to those from interstate and also all the delicious food on offer from the food stalls!

There really is something for everyone - and we are loving every minute!

Tikka time

Tikka Take

If you’re craving some fresh, modern, nutritious and super tasty cuisine then you’ve got to hit up Tikka Take in the city! Tikka Take is a modern gourmet restaurant whose mission is to serve natural, nutritious and unprocessed meals in a fun, innovative and accessible way - and it shines through in every bite.

The word ‘Tikka’, AKA ‘Teeka’ or ‘Teekka’ refers to skewered pieces of meat cooked in heat. Inspired by the fantastic flavours found in Central Asia and India, Tikka Take offers a completely new approach to the art of this form of cooking. With a vast menu, Tikka offers everything from naan rolls, rice & curry, biryani to thali, chaat, paratha, skewers to other nibbles, Indo-Chinese food, Himalayan & South Indian streets dishes.

One of the things I particularly love about their menu is their amazing selection of fusion bites - think cheesy Mexican papadum, chili coriander poppers and their ‘freaky fries’ like their famous butter chicken fries!

On this visit we enjoyed the Thali - a representation of the 6 tastes essential for a balanced meal and fulfillment of mind, body and spirit - where you select 2 curries (we chose lamb vindaloo and chicken korma), 1 daal (we chose the spicy daal tadka) and 2 naans (we went with chili coriander) which are served with coin pappadums, mini samosas, salad, raita, rice and gulab jamun dessert.

We also tried the mixed uttapam tokri (with onion, chili and mixed veg); and the puri sabji & aamras which is a popular traditional meal of fried puffed wheat bread, classic potato curry, mango pulp, pappadum and pickle.

Every single dish was SO fresh and delicious, with such vivid and complex combinations of flavours. What’s more, the serves are so generous and hearty, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting.

We also loved the cocktails! We tried the ganges mohito with rum, lime, ginger, mint, green chili, herbs and spices; and the southern somras with whisky, ginger, orange and cinnamon - both of which were so refreshing and perfectly complemented our spicy dishes!

We loved absolutely every last bite (and sip!) and can’t wait to come back again already!

Get smashed!

SmashBox by N

Are you looking for a fun an inventive gift to celebrate an occasion, like Easter (which is just around the corner)? I know of a way that you can have a smashing time – both figuratively and literally!

SmashBox By N is a local Canberra small business that offers a range of breakable SmashBoxes for all occasions – where each comes presented in a gorgeous gift box, complete with their own mini hammer.

I was recently lucky enough to get an Easter egg SmashBox which came with a gorgeous gold Easter egg atop a bed of pastel grass, peppered with speckled mini chocolate eggs.

Not only was it all delicious and beautifully presented, but it was super fun! I mean, how often do you get the opportunity for a guilt-free way to get smashed?!

Hopefully that message is hammered home – so if this sounds fun to you too, then make sure you hit them up!

Brunching local

Ruby’s Cafe and Bar

Fancy a delicious freshly brewed coffee, homemade pastry or sweet treat to start your workday or weekend? Ruby’s is a local canberra business open all week and a gem of a find in the fab little food and drink precinct at Evatt Shops.

Think homemade chocolate and lemon tarts; roasted pumpkin, asparagus and feta quiche or crunchy granola with Greek yogurt and fruit - there’s a huge range of eat-in and takeaway options with something for everyone, including a great range of gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan options available so those of us with intolerances don’t miss out.

What’s more, their coffee is fantastic with a range of The Cat’s Pyjamas blends by Seven Miles Coffee Roasters - complete with beautiful latté art and served with a big smile. Ruby’s also participate with the Green Cafeen swap and go reusable cup regime, in case you forgot your reusable cup and need to take your coffee to-go.

I was recently lucky enough to visit and tried their homemade sausage roll and their cauliflower and lentil pilaf (which is one of their fantastic vegan meal options that can be eaten-in or takeaway), and also their giant rocky road for dessert. Everything was SO fresh and delicious with generous size serves, and the atmosphere was so warm and inviting with their friendly and attentive team led by chef Matt Morrissey (aka The Social Chef).

And for all you fur-baby parents out there, you’ll love to know that Ruby’s is also pet-friendly! There’s a wall of fame and you can even spoil your pooch with a puppycino! What a fabulous way to start the day - can’t wait to come back again already!

Say cheese

The Merchant’s Feast

I don’t know about you, but I love the concept of fresh and gourmet Mediterranean produce delivered straight to my door! When you’re busy and have a picnic to attend or guests to impress, there’s nothing better than having a beautiful box of goodies complete with everything you need.

If you’re looking for a delicious and visually stunning cheese feast, then you’ll want to check out the new Merchants Cheese Box. It brings new meaning to the phrase ‘say cheese!’ - not only does it come packed to the brim with an incredible selection of cheese, but it is so beautifully presented that you’ll feel compelled to Instagram it!

The Merchants Cheese Box comes with Fresh Italian bread, quince paste, tapenade, toasties, breadsticks, dried fruit and a lovely cheese knife to cut the incredible selection of SEVEN cheeses included in the box - from French Paysan Breton cheese and Spanish Don Cayo Manchego to Italian Auricchio Grana Padano. It was all so delicious – I absolutely love the variety of cheese in the one box (I mean, why have 2 when you can have 7?) #YesPleaseCheese!

Everything was so fresh – as soon as I opened the box I was taken by the beautiful aromas, and the taste of the high quality ingredients was reflected in every bite.

The Merchant’s Feast is a local Canberra-based family business and digital deli where you can order beautifully presented fresh antipasto and grazing boxes like this and also your fave local and imported deli goods and European groceries from their online Pantry. They cut and prepare their cold meats & cheeses fresh to order each morning with bread baked fresh daily - which you can tell from every bite!

They do all the hard work, carefully selecting from some of the best Merchants in the country and around the world - so you can just enjoy! Thank you so much - I know to can’t wait to sink my teeth into more of this deliciousness!

Won’t you come out to play?

Dear Prudence

The sun is up, the sky is blue. It's beautiful and so are you, Dear Prudence!

We certainly couldn’t wait to come out to play at the launch of Dear Prudence last night, a fabulous wine and aperitif bar, and the latest addition to join the fabulous Verity Lane precinct.

As soon as you enter, you’re transported to the gorgeous hole-in-the-wall style bars of Barcelona. With rustic accents, candlelit tables and chandeliers, Dear Prudence has a beautiful interior and welcoming atmosphere that makes you not want to leave.

There is a delicious menu of Spanish-inspired snacks and share plates curated by chef Gerald Ong of Project Enoki - the perfect companions ready to pair with your choice of vermouth, cocktails, aperitifs and wine.

From butter beans escabeche, sopressa, XO-marinated razor clams and kalamata black olives with paparada and anchovy to stuffed piquillo peppers with stracciatella, kombu and chips with smoked paprika salt and triple cream cheese with fig - there’s something to suit even the most discerning palate.

Make sure you stop by soon - you’ll find it in the Sydney Building on Alinga Street in the city, open from 4pm Tuesday - Saturday. I know I can’t wait to come back again already!

The Pop Inn

If you love wine and drinking it with a gorgeous view outside then you are no doubt already a fan of Canberra’s pop up wine bar, The Pop Inn. But did you know that it’s their 4th birthday?

The Pop Inn has some exciting new plans for 2021 and they’re throwing a community party this weekend to celebrate - and you’re invited!

The Pop Inn is all about creating the essence of a getaway, but right here in our own backyard. I personally love the idea of going on a little holiday in my home town, especially with travel restrictions becoming the norm for us – and besides, this way I get to avoid having to pack!

Founded by Kimberly Ohayon, the Pop Inn is a local Canberra business which pops up regularly in some of our beautiful spots around the capital – like Telopea Park, The Carillon, Haig Park and Bowen Park.

The party will take place on both Saturday and Sunday this weekend in one of their fave spots, Bowen Park. It will be a fab celebration with a range of activities like cheese and wine tastings, lawn games, live entertainment and giveaways!

I was lucky enough to get a little taste of what’s coming, and I’m getting in the spirit of the festivities in anticipation - you know #research. If this is an insight into what is to come this year then I know I can’t wait - see you this weekend!

Hell yeah

Little Lucifer

Do you feel like getting fired up to have a devilishly good time? Lucky for us, Braddon's brand new bar and restaurant Little Lucifer has just officially opened! #speakofthedevil Just in time for Canberra summer, you can pop in and enjoy a delicious cocktail, wine or beer to cool down - so essentially you can cool down while getting lit!

You'll find this little gem on Lonsdale Street, including a huge range of drinks and delicious food on offer, including weekly specials. We were lucky enough to be invited for a sneak peak before their grand opening and tried the weekly drinks specials - the piña colada (one of my all time faves which needs no introduction) and the ‘mystic marvel’ with tequila, prickly pear purée, agave syrup and lime juice - very refreshing and the perfect start to the evening.

For dinner we tried the slow roasted pork belly served with couscous salad and pomegranate molasses; the grilled beef tournedos served with crushed potato, veggies and mushroom gravy; and the marinated grilled lamb chop cutlets with Himalayan spices served with pea purée and couscous salad.

Everything was so delicious - this ain't your average pub grub; the meat was cooked absolutely perfectly, the serves were incredibly generous, the veg was super fresh and the complex marinades and meat rubs came through in every bite. I suppose you could say the devil is in the detail?!

We also thoroughly enjoyed the grand opening - Little Lucifer sure knows how to throw a party! From an impressive buffet of their specialty dishes, to the many cocktails served from the bar, to the live music and dancing outside - it was like a block party and a feast for all the senses. I can't wait to come back again already - catch you on the dark side!

Veritably perfect

Verity Lane Market

So by now I'm sure you've been to Verity Lane Market for dinner - a thriving food hall right in the centre of Canberra with several amazing food vendors in the one beautifully designed spot. But as of this week from Wed-Sat they are now also open for lunch! Ahem - did somebody say long lunch?! Cuz I'm listening!

The stunning market in the Sydney building has been purpose-built to keep elements of the building’s heritage, while creating a beautiful communal and modern seating space. What’s more, the stunning early 20th century inspired Verity Bar inside offers a range of curated cocktails, craft beer and wine if you feel like a beverage (or two).

I was recently lucky enough to be invited to lunch and absolutely loved it. The quality is amazing and the choice of options is great - with something to suit everyone's taste. There’s traditional wood-fired Italian pizza at Pizza Artigiana, a range of modern Asian dishes at Project Enoki, a modern ramen menu fusing French and Japanese flavours Ramen Daddy. And PSST - word on the street is that Superbao will also be coming very soon, showcasing it's deliciously fresh and fluffy baos!

On this visit we enjoyed the traditional Italian pizza - hot and fresh right out of the wood fired oven. We tried the Cacciatore pizza with fior de latté fresh mozzarella base with porchetta, wild mushrooms, rosemary and garlic oil which was absolutely delicious - a flavour explosion in every bite. We also tried the Nduja & Cheese pizza on recommendation. While it’s a relatively simple combination, we can see why it’s one of their most popular and often sells out with the spicy Nduja hot salami as the star; as Silvio puts it, it ‘lets the Nduja speak.

We also tried Project Enoki which has a special list that rotates weekly from innovative dishes by Gerald (behind Chariman & Yip) and Esther (former head pastry chef at Pialligo Estate and Sonoma) bringing their love of authentic Singaporean dishes with a modern twist. On this visit we enjoyed their special Thunder Tea Rice - a healthier dish influenced by northern China and Mongolian cuisine.

We also enjoyed Ramen Daddy’s Dan Dan Ramen - a spicy ramen featuring chicken broth, sesame paste, mushroom XO, seasonal vegetables and togaroshi, as well as the special Daddy Cool soba noodles - a refreshing cold dish which is great for something a bit lighter in the summer. We also couldn’t resist the crème caramel for dessert which was amazing - Eddy and Ann create this masterpiece by combining the flavour with creme brûlée for a complex take on the favourite.

Everything we ate was so delicious, fresh and beautifully presented. Pair your dishes with a delicious cocktail or two, and well - it just doesn't get much better than that in my books! We loved the Old Fashion, the Verity Martini, the ‘Nuked’ Negroni, and their craft beer.

In the coming weeks Verity Lane Market food hall will be expanding even further from a food hall into a food precinct - with a few more special watering holes joining the scene. They’re still #hushhush for now but I’ll give you a hint - if you love good wine and craft beer then you’re in for a treat. You’ll have to check out my stories for more on those for now! So keep your eyes peeled and make the most of the Canberra summer and come check it out for yourself!

Japanese fusion and then some

Yaki Boi

Ever have trouble deciding between Japanese miso and tempura or burgers and pizza?! Why not get both at the same time!

Well that’s exactly what you can do at Yaki Boi! From wagyu cheeseburger spring rolls and mozzarella sticks to scrambled free-range curry don and the eel house burger – this is Japanese fusion at its peak.

Not only that, but you can also enjoy delicious cocktails - think yuzu honey and plum liqueur mixed with soda for a refreshing beverage that will leave you wanting more.

This trendy restaurant is a newcomer to Braddon, with a stylish modern interior incorporating neon signs and beautiful Oriental art work. Sit outside under the shade of the umbrellas on the outdoor terrace and people-watch the busy Lonsdale Street below while you nibble on yaki fried chips and Japanese-inspred pizza. The perfect way to spend a meal!

I visited recently and was lucky enough to try the wagyu cheeseburger spring rolls with sweet chili and peri peri; veggie tempura with eggplant, green beans, okura, pumpkin, and sweet potato; Takoyaki octopus balls with Japanese mayo, okonomi sauce, benito flake; and the Takoyaki party pizza with a Japanese mayo base, Takoyaki, wild prawn, fresh octopus, caramelised onion, bacon, okonomi sauce and benito flake.

These are some of their most popular dishes, and we can see why - we absolutely loved it! The range of flavours is complex and delicious - a delicious and modern fusion between traditional Japanese cuisine and western flavours. I can’t wait to try more again already!

With all my heart

Sweetest Moments

Have you worked out how to spoil your Valentine or galentine this year?

If you haven’t already, then you’d better get your skates on - hint hint! If you’re looking for some inspiration to spoil your boo, then you oughta check out Sweetest Moments - a local Canberra-based small business driven by a dedication to offer a superior, personalised service.

The owner Karina’s passion is to create elegant floral and confectionary arrangements, believing there’s no better way to show someone your appreciation. With their wide range of flowers and yummy gourmet treats, hampers and centrepieces - Sweetest Moments are perfect for celebrating occasions with your loved ones.

From wreaths, to sweet trees, teddy bouquets and wine bottle toppers – there’s a huge range of innovative arrangements. Plus they only use premium quality confectionery – think Lindt, Ferrero Rocher, premium licorice, marshmallows and more – something for every sweet tooth! You can even work with them to design and create your own custom arrangement or bouquet.

I was recently lucky enough to try one of their latest creations available for V-day, the With All My Heart bouquet – which includes 30 chocolates of your choice topped with a gorgeous red flower. Mine featured delicious Ferrero Rocher chocolates, and was absolutely stunning!

I certainly know I couldn’t wait to sink my teeth into it. So make sure you check them out the next time you want to spoil someone special in your life.

Fresh food and a feast!

The Food Forum

Fancy a fresh feast? Tonight I was inspired to whip up a delicious dinner after shopping at the Food Forum on the weekend!

The Food Forum is a locally owned, family run business that knows their stuff, with over 60 years of experience in the food industry, from farming to retail.

They pride themselves on sourcing only the best quality seasonal produce from the finest growers and producers in Australia. Their fruit and veg is sourced fresh and their philosophy is all about choosing the best tasting produce - and you can tell from the taste!

They also have a full in-house butcher shop preparing meat fresh in-store every day, and they debone their chickens in-house fresh every day ensuring you get freshest product possible (and free of any added hormones and processed chemical free). The Food Forum also stocks a huge range of grocery products at competitive prices, from dairy and nuts to spices and health foods. What’s more, they supply over 200 local businesses with wholesale fresh produce, and they even do delivery!

One of my fave parts of visiting is checking out all the speciality continental groceries they stock, from authentic Mexican foods to fresh Italian pastas and other ingredients.

I was recently invited to stop by and I loved checking out everything in store and getting inspiration to cook something – I decided to grab a few speciality ingredients and staples for an Italian feast, and am super chuffed with my end result – check it out!

Everything I bought was so delicious and had such a rich authentic taste. My dinner was absolutely delicious! But you don’t have to take my word for it – go check it out yourself and get inspired to make your own delicious creations!

Feels like home, but different

Knightsbridge Penthouse

Shh! Can you keep a secret?! Since those long months of Covid shut-down, I know I’m one of many longing for an exceptional late night cocktail and maybe a sneaky dance.

Ever since its previous location was closed due to redevelopment, Canberra’s beloved and iconic bar - Knightsbridge Penthouse, affectionately known as ‘Knighty’ by its fans – has been sorely missed by locals. While it might have seemed like an eternity, I am here to say that the wait is almost over! 

Over this period of time owner Troy has kept the new location extremely hush hush while he has been managing the new fit out. I was recently lucky enough to be invited for a sneak peak and am so excited to share the inside skinny with you (well, what I’m permitted to at this stage, anyway)!

The new interior is looking fabulous yet familiar. It has a few new surprises and it’s a tad bigger, but it still has that same Knighty charm we’ve come to love over the many years that it has been a treasured Canberra venue, and since its initial establishment in 2004 by Bria Sydney. As Troy says, ‘it feels like home, but different’.

Behind the original commanding silver panelled entry door, you’ll find similar peep-holes cut out in the wall, where you can suss out the dance floor and spot your friends as you’re entering the venue.

And as soon as you step in you’ll notice some more features you always loved, like the King Louis armchairs, peacock accents and cosy mood-lit corners with vintage chesterfield couches. You’ll also find the familiar piano which houses the raised DJ deck behind.

There are also a few new features you’ll love - including Union Jack decor and other surprises that are a nod to Knightsbridge in the UK. I like to think of the new space like KB’s second cousin, and I think it’s perfect.

So where is it you ask? Drum roll please…. It’s in the same block as it used to be, just a few shopfronts down from the OG – on 26 Mort Street. I’ll give you another update once it’s almost ready to go, so keep your eyes peeled!

Brew & breakfast

Brew & Brew

Delicious hot breakfast in or breakfast to go on the run to start your work day? Yes please!

Lucky for us, Brew & Brew have reopened all three of their stores this week after the holidays! They are on Constitution and Allara Streets in the city and National Circuit in Forrest. They also have a great range of eat-in options and food to-go.

We were recently lucky enough to be invited and ate in. We enjoyed a ham and cheese croissant and a hot breakfast of avocado toast with eggs sunny side up - delicious! We also started the morning with a delicious almond milk capp and a long black. Everything was super fresh, quick and tasty - just want you want to start off your work day!

They also do a great range of lunch options, from rotisserie meats and fresh salads to burgers, sushi, sausage rolls, spinach feta pastries and more! So make sure you stop by soon - and you’ll be well fueled for your day ahead.

Welcome back Brew n Brew - we missed you. Can’t wait to come back again soon!

Brunch and brews on Batman

Chapter 4 Cafe

Fancy a fresh brew and brunch to start your day? Chapter 4 Cafe is a new cafe on Batman street in Braddon, offering a delicious food menu and a range of coffees and other drinks.

We were recently lucky enough to be invited and started with the cold drip summer blend coffee and the coffee chocolate frappe. The frappé was a decadent treat, and I loved the cold drip which had a beautiful subtle citrus flavour to it, served with orange peel.

Then we dug into the corn fritter Benedict dish with bacon, poached egg, spinach and hollandaise; and because I don’t eat fish they made up their hearty green dish for me with chicken instead, which comes with beetroot hummus, kale, watercress, broccolini, jalapeños sauce and poached egg. We were comfortably full as the meals are very generously sized, but we just couldn’t resist dessert! Can you blame me? As the sweet fried toast dish is fried French toast served with Nutella, banana, condensed milk, seasonal fruit and granola!!

Everything was so fresh and delicious, with all sauces made fresh in-house 😋 What’s more, Chapter 4 Cafe sources from local businesses including Three Mills Bakery and Seven Miles Coffee Roasters, so by eating and drinking there you are supporting local canberra businesses trifold.

So if you’re looking for beautiful hearty serves, a great chilled vibe and a wonderful and friendly team to cater for your every brunch desire, then make sure you stop by soon! Thanks for having us Chapter 4 - we loved every last bite and can’t wait to visit again already.

Will you brie my valentine?

Grazy Daze - Brie Mine platter

Lovers take note! If you want to spoil yours this Valentine’s Day, you better brie-lieve that the best way to someone’s heart is through their stomach!

Enter the Brie-Mine platter by Grazy_Daze. Cuz srsly, what could be better than a giant heart-shaped brie complete with four types of charcuterie, fruits, edible flowers, artisan crackers and local honey?!

And just LOOK at it - this isn’t a work of art - it’s a work of heart!! What’s more, it was absolutely delicious - everything was so fresh and full of flavour, and the pack came with everything you need for the perfect celebration.

Grazy Daze is a local Canberra business specializing in stunning grazing catering. They believe that no two orders will be the same, and style each grazing table, platter and box to ensure it has it’s own unique fingerprint.

So if you’re thinking of treating your lover (and yourself!) then go on - as this is one instance where it’s totally ok to be cheesy!

Argentina at Christmas

The Milonga

Fancy some sweet artisanal, hand-crafted treats delivered straight to the door of your loved ones this Christmas?

The Milonga is an online speciality grocery store specialising in homemade traditional Argentinian Alfajors, the best of Argentina. Based and run locally right here in Canberra, their journey started in 2019 when they had the idea to introduce their amazing flavours of Latin American treats to family and friends.

To the uninitiated, the Milonga’s Argentinian Alfajors (al-fa-ho-res) are made with a combination of rich dulce de leche (a soft, milk caramel-like filling), then that’s sandwiched between two fresh cookies, and THEN it’s all covered in premium chocolate. AMAZING!

From traditional alfajors filled with creamy dulce de leche and rolled in coconut, to variations covered in dark chocolate, milk chocolate, peanut, white chocolate and walnuts too - there is something for every sweet tooth! But I recommend a mixed specials box so you don’t even have to decide #yourewelcome. I know I can’t wait to have more already!

Futtu-crepe and then some

House of Desserts

Nutella, chocolate and Lotus biscoff crepes, waffles and more? If that doesn’t get your attention I don’t know what will!

If you haven’t already heard the House of Desserts is a local Canberra takeaway business specialising in you guessed it - amazing desserts.

They have a DIY style menu where you start by choosing from waffles, pancakes, crepes, mini pancakes or their special ‘futtuCrepe’ - think sweet crepe-like fettuccine which gets smothered with your choice of fillings and topping!

Then you can pick fruit (strawberries, banana); candy bar fillings (think KitKat, Oreo, m&ms etc); your choice of liquid toppings (like peanut butter, nutella, lotusbiscoffau and white chocolate)! And you can even choose extras like maple syrup, honey and ice cream too.

HOMG - Everything we ate was SO delicious. Hot and fresh and smothered in ALL the good stuff!

While you wait for your takeaway to be made fresh in front of you, you can sit and wait in their cute outdoor space which is lovely and inviting - and glistening with fairy lights at night when you get your sugar cravings. I know I can’t wait to come back again already. Check out their insta page for all the details, and make sure you come with an appetite!

A Canadian feast

Caribou

Home-style Canadian comfort food with a twist - sounds pretty awesome, eh? Based in Kingston Caribou is the perfect place to enjoy some classic Canadian hospitality – with ice-cold drinks, delicious hearty food, watching live sports on the big screens, shooting pool or people watching in busy Green Square.

There are heaps of great daily specials on like taco Tuesdays, wings and whisky Wednesdays, and thirsty Thursday cocktail specials and their menu is PHENOM. Think authentic Canadian poutine, pork belly bites, deep fried brussel sprouts, burgers, pizza and more!

First off we couldn’t resist some house specialty cocktails - the Cosmo-tini which is a delicate mix between a French martini and a cosmopolitan (perfect for this summer weather); and the Bloody Caesar with Clamato juice (inc clam juice for the uninitiated), Worcestershire sauce, tobasco, vodka and topped with jerky bacon, pickles and spicy beans - it was incredible!

Then we had the taco trio: grilled chicken, cauliflower poppers w pomegranate chutney, and bbq pork bites; and a serve of deep fried pickles (which we’re told that Peter Piper picked) in a panko crumb with chipotle aioli. We also couldn’t resist the mac n cheese pizza - two of my faves combined - with red onion, aioli and chives! And last but certainly not least we got the Alberta burger with beef, maple bacon, mushrooms, Swiss cheese, caramelised onions, pickles and sauce to boot with a side of sweet potato poutine with authentic cheese curds and gravy HOMG!

Everything was really so delicious and hearty - no skimping on any of the good stuff here, that is for sure! Leeroy - the man behind a Caribou - knows his stuff and it’s clear that he and his team love what they do. The vibes at Caribou are top notch and once you settle in you’ll not want to leave! Check out their page for all the deets.

Thank you Caribou for such an amazing afternoon - we can’t wait to come back again already. Now stop what you’re doing and get on down to Caribou soon and let the team spoil you too!

Latin nights

Highball La Cantina Bingo & Live Music

Craft cocktails, Latin inspired food, live music and prizes? Sign me up pls!!!

If you’re looking to spice up your Thursday night then look no further than La Cantina Bingo & Live Band night at Highball Express.

You can listen to beautiful Latin beats of the likes of Mi Tierra live band while trying your luck at bingo, and vying for great prizes - think cocktails to Highball’s epic and much-loved fruity punch bowls and even a private karaoke room at 88mph!

We were recently invited and loved every minute - we sipped on cocktails and Prosecco, nibbled on pork belly and crumbed mushroom sliders and Peking duck spring rolls.

Like they say, it’s a one-way ticket to paradise. And given this year, I for one can’t think of a better time to use it! Just make sure you book ahead to avoid missing out.

Thank for such a fun night out Highball!

Tom and Jerry cheesecake

Misu Castle

Who here grew up watching Tom & Jerry getting up to all sorts of mischief?

I say there’s nothing like a delicious piece of cheesecake to bring back some fun nostalgia. Well, any excuse really for me to visit!

Right now Misu Castle has a delicious mango cheesecake that looks just like that iconic cheese we all remember.

I was lucky enough to be invited during the week to try it and I can vouch that it is awesome - the mango flavour makes it such a light and refreshing cake, right down to the last nibble.

And contrary to what cartoons would have us believe, the holes in this cake are most certainly not made by mice eating their way through - because you’ll eat it way too fast for that too happen!

So what are you waiting for?! High tail it down there and grab yourself a piece before they’re all gone! I know I can’t wait to come back again already.

Your local French patisserie

La Baguette Magique Braddon

A Mauritius and more-ish meal? Wi Wi!

If you feel like a momentary escape and a beautiful brunch, all you have to do is pop over to Lonsdale Street to the gorgeous French patisserie. I start to salivate as soon as I arrive to its magnificent display cabinet filled with beautiful tarts, pastries, macarons and more.

We were recently lucky enough to be invited and enjoyed a fabulous brunch, including French toast with maple and the most perfectly crispy bacon. We also tried the croque madame, with French toast with ham, cheese and sunny side up eggs derived with a hint of balsamic and salad. And It.was.all.incredible!!

We also enjoyed a coffee and their tumeric latte which was a great twist on the usual. And although we were certainly full, we just couldn’t resist the amazing display cabinet of wondrous treats...! We tried the chocolate tart, the Black Forest cake and the chocolate lava cake - and I am so glad we squeezed them in as they were phenomenal, and the perfect sweet way to end the meal!

Everything was really so delicious - amazing flavour combinations, beautiful presentation and lovely friendly staff in a tranquil and ambient atmosphere. Can’t wait to come back again already!

ToEatList flavour of the week

Goodberries

A ToEatList flavour of the week!

With its amazing concretes and the endless combinations of toppings and flavours you can come up with, Goodberries is always one of the highest spots on my To-Eat-List. And after having grown up with them as a household name in Canberra, I was rapt to be invited to collaborate with Goodberries and to come up with my very own @to_eat_list flavour of the week!

So what is it?! Ahem Drumroll please ... NUTELLA PRETZEL! I was recently lucky enough to visit and get behind the scenes (and the counter!) to learn all about how the concretes are made, go crazy with all the toppings and try out a range of different combos.

After dutifully taste testing a whole bunch (you know, quality control) this flavour just took the cake. It’s a beautiful mix of sweet and salty, and that lush Nutella flavour throughout just wins me over with every bite.

This flavour is available from now until Saturday. So what are you waiting for? Get in store and try it NOW!

What’s more, Goodberries is giving away some amazing merch - so make sure you check out their page for all the deets.

You’d be (hazel)nuts to miss it! I know I can’t wait to have more again already. Thanks so much Goodberries and Experience zests for making my dessert dreams come true!

Burgs, shakes, cocktails and more!

Mookie

Did you know that Mookie has launched their new menu? They’ve been releasing amazing new additions daily over the last few weeks and after trying a few items I can tell you I am HERE for it!

I was recently lucky enough to be invited to try a selection of their new additions and they.are.all.AMAZE! The burgs were so fresh and saucy - just how I like them - and all the combinations of flavours with their sides and desserts just blew me away!

Think Harajuku chicken bites with yum yum sauce; the Karate Kid with Japanese style chicken karaage, smashed avo, kewpie mayo and tonkatsu on a nori rice bun; the Sakura burger - the classic Mookie burger with a Japanese twist on a housemade nori rice bun with secret Sakura sauce and all-star wagyu loaded fries.

They’ve got milkshakes like peanut butter, chocolate and Nutella; and Butterscotch. Then there are the concretes - like the Hello Kitty with vanilla frozen custard and cheesecake, topped with strawberry whipped cream, fairy floss, strawberry, pocky and hello kitty chocolate; and the Pop Star with vanilla custard, house make choc chip cookie dough, topped with toffee popcorn, salted pretzels and a white choc and sprinkle waffle cone!

And those cocktails HOMG - frozen margs, cosmopolitans and jelly saki! If you haven’t already - or even if you have - then make sure you visit soon - it’s just too good to miss out!

Let’s get physical

88mph

Goodness knows I need a workout after being couped up inside so much lately, and what better way than to exercise than by making it a party where you’re having so much fun you don’t even realise you’re burning off those takeaway cals, one fresh beat at a time!

Lucky for us, 88mph is bringing back the good old 80s aerobic workout with their Let's Get Physical sessions. I was recently lucky enough to come along to their Halloween 80s style sesh, where we rocked out to the best 80s steps and even got to learn MJ's Thriller dance!

After a couple welcome drinks we were limbered up and ready to take on some dance battles head-on, and I’m definitely feeling like I stretched some muscles today that I never knew I had! If you couldn’t make this event, don’t worry - as they classes run every month on Saturdays from 4.30pm. So get booking!

You’ll have so much fun that you won’t even realise it’s good for you too! Thanks so much for having me 88mph - we had an absolute blast!

Meat you there

Bleachers’ Meat Tray Raffle Nights

Meaty Monday? Yes please!

Not sure about you, but I was so not ready for the weekend to be over this week, so it was awesome to have something to make Monday worth waiting for. I was lucky enough to be invited to the launch of Bleachers’ brand new Meat Raffle and Mic Night.

Make no mi-steak, this is not your average meat raffle – it comes packed full of competition, comedy with amazing meat trays & beers up for grabs. The hilarious host and comedian Pat Doherty had us laughing from the get-go.

There are also special $15 chicken schnittys on offer all night too, which were so delicious - perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside with your choice of gravy, shoestring fries and garden salad to boot. And of course we couldn’t resist a couple cheeky beers #wheninRome.

The whole evening was so much fun - there’s really something for everyone with trivia, comedy, raffles and Bleachers’ delicious food and drinks. So even if you don’t win the raffle, your still clearly #winning!

Starting from next week, all the action is on every Thursday from 6.30pm. Check out Bleachers’ page for all the deets and book your tickets early so you don’t miss out. Meat you there!

Roller Disco Brunch

Rolling into brunch like...

Roller skates, brunch, pizza AND unlimited mimosas? Um YES PLEASE - that’s how I roll!

I was recently lucky enough to be invited to the most iconic brunch club event to come to Canberra: the Roller Disco Brunch. The event travels around the country and Canberra was the place to be this weekend.

My fellow skaters and I got to channel our best 80s and 90s selves self with big curls, denim and all the trims as we rolled on into the wkend.

The Social Club in Kingston was the perfect venue with plenty of space for the rink, as well as space to chill while we sat and ate pizza and sipped on delicious mimosas that kept a ‘comin. Thanks so much for having me - we had a ball, and can’t wait for the event the next time it comes to Canberra!

Winning

Meat & Eat on Hardwick at the Belconnen Raiders Club

What’s better than a home town win by our Raiders? An awesome meal to celebrate it at the Belconnen Raiders Club! Meat & Eat on Hardwick has newly reopened where you can enjoy lunch and dinner daily.

They have an extensive menu with everything from steak to pasta, risotto, salads, burgers and more including gluten free, veg, and vegan options. Their grill selection in particular is amazing, and you can see their incredible aging chamber in the restaurant which houses their dry-aged meat. The process of refrigerating the meat for an extended period results in a more concentrated flavour and tender texture - which you can tell from that first juicy bite.

I was recently lucky enough to be invited, and we tried the 300gm scotch fillet which was aged 28 days, which was also made a Surf & Turf by adding two grilled prawn kebabs. The signature dry aged steaks are served with two sides (we had salad and hot chips) and assorted mustards - think earl grey mustard, hot mustard, red wine jus, garlic and shallot butter and red wine and shallot butter.

We also had to try the Raiders Beef & Bacon Burger which has a beautiful hand pressed beef patty, several rashers of crispy bacon, American cheese, battered onion rings, pickles, mixed leaves and Raiders burger sauce. It was absolutely divine - a towering masterpiece - where that deliciously juicy beef patty has you hooked from the first bite.

We also really enjoyed our entrees of buffalo wings entree with ranch dressing, picked carrot and celery; and salt & pepper squid with fresh lime and lemon aioli. Overall, we couldn’t have loved our meal more - we even got to meet the awesome chef Nick Wren behind the meals!

Everything was cooked to perfection, so fresh and the flavours were phenomenal. This is not your everyday club food - this is next level! Thanks so much for having us - we left with incredibly satisfied tummies and can’t wait to come back again!

A club where I want a lifetime membership

Brunching Club

There’s nothing better than sleeping in late and brunching at home on a beautiful long weekend!

If you haven’t heard, the Brunching Club is a local Canberra business that offers a range of gourmet brunch boxes, grazing boxes and sweet & savoury boxes - all delivered straight to your door! Helloooooo breakfast in PJs!

All of their gourmet boxes are made with fresh local products, supporting local businesses. Today I was lucky enough to try their bagel box which is soooooo good!

It came packed with a selection of bagels with cream cheese and they were so fresh that they were still warm.

This is a club in which I’m loving being a long time member. Can’t wait to sink my teeth back into those goodies already!

Paws off my paws!

Phat Panda Urban Asian Street Food

Keep your paws of my paws!

If you’re like me then this is what you’ll find yourself saying when you’re at Phat Panda Urban Asian Street Food cuz you won’t wanna share!

I visited recently and had to get my fix of Phat Panda’s naughty paws with marinated beef, sweet chili, tangy mayo and shallots. For the uninitiated, the naughty paws are served on a bed of deep fried wontons crisps and they are absolutely AMAZING! Once you’ve had them, you know you can no longer live without them.

We also couldn’t go past the fried chicken Panda Roll with coriander, pâté, mayo, purple onion, picked carrots and soy; and some cheeky chicken wings and curry puffs.

And even though the pants were starting to tighten at that point, we couldn’t resist dessert - when it’s a puff waffle cooked fresh and smothered with vanilla and taro gelato with chocolate topping, Oreos and sprinkles!

Everything was SO delicious, and we left with very full and very satisfied tummies! I always love visiting Phat Panda because they have such a unique take on fusion street food with such imaginative and delicious combinations. Can’t wait to come back again already!

Healthy and homemade style food with a smile

Chargrill Harry’s Cafe

I’ve been craving some healthy and fresh homemade style food lately, so I knew exactly where to go to get my fix!

Chargrill Harry’s Cafe brings high quality food that you can eat in or grab to-go, and adaptive meal options that you can mix and match however you like. They have a fantastic selection, from chargrilled chicken and lamb with sides of fresh veggies to roast meat rolls, burgers and salads. They also offer gluten free, dairy free, vegetarian, vegan and fat free options too!

We were recently lucky enough to try their Portuguese half serve of chicken with roast pumpkin, potato and superfoods salad; and their roast lamb roll with homemade mint gravy and those delicious chips of theirs with chicken salt - the best!

Everything was so delicious and fresh - the meat was tender and juicy and the portion sizes were very generous. We absolutely love visiting Harry and his team - his love of sharing great food is infectious, as his regulars all know. Check out their page for more, and do yourself a favor by stopping by!

Be your own barista!

Bean Culture barista training courses

Well who woulda thought - I’m now a certified barrister and barista!

If you’re a coffee lover or aficionado then you’d already be familiar with Bean Culture’s amazing coffee from its café at Telstra Tower and espresso bar in the city. BUT did you know that they are the first roastery in Canberra to offer both an open space boutique coffee roastery with coffee roasting and barista training courses?

Based in Mitchell, Bean Culture’s barista training courses give you the opportunity for a one-on-one training experience to train as a barista including learning how to extract all the flavours from the coffee, how to texture the milk and apply latte art. What’s more, at the end of your completed course, you will receive a certificate of achievement!

You can choose from a range of courses, from the bean roasting beginner to the latte artist extraordinaire, catering to all levels of experience. We were recently lucky enough to be invited to the 2 hour Barista Essentials course and absolutely loved it - we learnt all about the history and culture of coffee and mastering a range of techniques - from coffee machine and equipment operation to milk texturing, bean roasting and grinding, espresso preparation and presentation.

So whether you’re looking to work in the hospitality sector, or simply impress your friends with your newfound know-how on brewing an amazing cup of coffee with textured milk and other decorative techniques - then make sure you check it out!

We had an awesome experience, and couldn’t recommend it more highly.

Beautiful brunching

Kitchen Garden at Rodney’s

Enjoying a beautiful brunch sitting outside under colorful umbrellas amidst a tranquil garden setting with the sounds of fountains, as you sip your cup of coffee... Sound lovely?

It really is beautiful in the new space at Kitchen Garden at Rodneys. We visited recently on a perfect spring morning and had a wonderful brunch.

We tried their sautéed mushrooms on toasted sourdough with goats cheese, rocket and a poached egg; and the gardeners breakfast of two poached eggs, bacon, chipolata sausage, hash brown, mushrooms and toasted tomato on toasted sourdough.

The meals were delicious, with generous serves of all the good stuff. The eggs and mushrooms were cooked perfectly and everything from the sourdough to the tomatoes were so fresh.

And then we couldn’t resist dessert - as their decadent cake selection includes one of my all time faves - Marsbar cheesecake!

Needless to say, we didn’t leave a crumb! Thank you for such a perfect way to start the day! Can’t wait to visit again soon.

Sushi, fried chicken and ramen

Sushi Fresh

Are you feeling some delicious sushi, nigiri, ramen, fried chicken and more? Yes please!

Sushi Fresh is a new must-try in Braddon. We were recently lucky enough to be invited to visit, and had a beautiful lunch in a sun-drenched table outside on Mort Street.

The sushi and roll set featuring chicken, tuna, salmon and prawn nigiri was so delicious - so fresh with quality ingredients, and the katsu chicken was my favorite. We also tried the deluxe salmon roll with prawn and avocado which was amazing - so many textures with creamy avocado, crispy prawn and juicy salmon.

We also couldn’t go past the spicy ramen which came with fish cake, egg roll and tofu - with just the right amount of spice and lots of noodles!

If you haven’t already make sure you stop by! I know we can’t wait to come back again already and try more of their delicious menu.

Progressive Indian fusion

GanJees

Amazing Indian fusion food in the heart of Braddon - yes please! GanJees in Braddon offers a delicious and unique take on Indian food with its progressive Indian cuisine, driven by their visionary chef Puneet.

The menu is vast, catering to lunch, dinner, late night bar options, dessert, kids options and even breakfast! The selection is incredible and like nothing else I’ve ever seen – combining some of my favourite traditional Indian curries and other dishes with new western faves.

Think Indian jalapeno poppers in chickpea batter with tamarind sauce; roti bruschetta; golden and crispy tandoori spiced chicken popcorn; butter chicken, coconut duck or pork belly sliders with chili mango chutney.

I was recently lucky enough to be invited, and with all these delicious options we couldn’t decide! So we tried their 5 course tasting menu. Our courses included avocado chaat; biryani spring rolls; pappadum crusted lamb rogan josh; black magic tandoori fish (and as I am not a fish fan I had an alternate course of ghee roasted goat curry); and mithai desserts trio platter featuring edible silver!

Every dish was delicious – fresh, with complex flavour, and really imaginative and beautiful presentation; the lamb course was served on a bed of dried lentils and beans in a book!

GanJees are also proud to support local Canberra businesses by sourcing spices and other cooking ingredients in the Canberra Region. So make sure you stop by to pay them a visit - or get takeaway or delivery!

Let your creative juices flow

The Social Creative

Has it been a while since you let your creative juices flow? I feel like it’s definitely something I haven’t paid enough attention to over these last crazy months.

There is a budding artist in all of us if you let it out! And what better way than with a class through the Social Creative Canberra where they look after everything from materials, prep, clean-up, and breaking down the steps to painting a fabulous piece of art - all you need to do is show up!

What’s more, the painting classes are hosted at great venues where you can buy food and drinks at the same time. Last night I was lucky enough to be invited to create my own special work of art and had an absolute blast!

Regardless of your skill level (as trust me I have no painting talent!) you will come away with an amazing conversational piece - and you’ll have many lols along the way.

Thank you Social Creative Canberra for such a wonderful evening, and I hold firm my view that the more wine you drink, the more creative you get! #Truestory

Pandemic party time

Kokomo’s

Oh, you didn’t think I was gonna let a little pandemic get in the way of my birthday party, did you?!

After being couped up inside for the last several months, I figured it was well and truly time to party! And what better way to celebrate, than by embracing the mask in a Mask-Erade themed shindig!

From feathered wonders fit for a masquerade ball, face-painted works of art, DIY bedazzled beauties, and the functional P2 mask - my friends and I had it covered.

Kokomos was the clear choice for me, with its beautiful space where I could book out the entire top floor so Rona couldn’t stop us from partying #socialdistancing and we had the most delicious canapés: think tiger prawn spring rolls with native plum sweet and sour; snapper carpaccio with truffle, yuzu and white soy; yellow curry beef buns with spiced peanut; Thai fried chicken with kewpie mayo and hot sauce; lemon chicken salad with Vietnamese mint and black garlic; satay chicken with lemongrass, cucumber and ginger; tempura eggplant and more!

Not to mention their amazing cocktails, wine and beers! My faves were the Hattori Hanzo and Pineapple Express.

Thank you Kokomos for making my birthday night so awesome, and to my amazing friends for dressing to the nines, celebrating with me and making me feel very special! I had an absolute ball, and partied like it was 2019 #PandemicParty

Personalised sweet treats

Cookibox.Co

What do you do during a global pandemic when it’s your birthday? I’m certainly not going to NOT celebrate - cuz that’d just be crazy! And what better way to celebrate than with beautifully decorated and delicious bespoke cookies?!

Cookibox.Co is a local Canberra business that creates a range of gorgeous iced cookies that you can get personalised with whatever colours and messages your heart desires!

The gift boxing is also beautiful, with display boxes and cookies all individually wrapped, making these edible works of art perfect for gifts and celebrations with your family and friends. And what’s more - they taste AMAZING!

Thank you Cookibox.Co for spoiling me with these stunners for my birthday. I can’t wait to eat them!

Boozy brunch and baked brie

Amici Bar

Boozy Brunch with bottomless mimosas and a big Baked Brie - you better brie-lieve it!

I think we can all agree that brunch is better with some bubbles! And that’s exactly what you can enjoy at the beautiful bar in the city that is Amici Bar. Sitting on plush pink velvet cushions amongst leafy green vines adorning the walls and facing a truly beautiful bar, you can escape the daily grind to soak up the gorgeous atmosphere - as well as delicious breakfast cocktails!

Available daily ‪11am to 3pm‬, Amici’s Boozy Brunch includes a range of their cheese and charcuterie platters to share, two cannoli per person and two hours of bottomless mimosas!

Think blue cheese, cheddar, gouda; jamon serrano, sopressa and salami; quince, dried fruit, peppers, olives and fresh sourdough and crackers to mop it all up.

The cannoli were a generous size and came filled with fresh chocolate ricotta and pistachio ricotta - and both were delicious.

There is also the option to add on a wheel of Baked Brie. And if you didn’t think it could get any better, think again – because you can up-size your brie to a 3 POUND baked brie!!!! I clearly had to partake (obvi). Featuring honey, pistachios, and edible blooms – this brie serves up to 8 people and was absolutely beautiful.

And the mimosas - need I say any more? The team at Amici were very attentive, gingerly topping up our delicious drinks throughout the session. I cannot think of a better start to the day! You can book yourself brunch for 4-20 guests, so get your buds on board and book - and then bring on the bubbly!

The new ‘old school’

Parked-in Pictures, Zambrero

If you’re like me, you might be getting a bit over staying in all the time to stream movies on your TV. But at the same time, I am loving that I can be watching a flick in the comfort of my PJs!

So if you’re feeling like getting out of the house but still staying snug in your comfy clothes, I have the ultimate solution for you: Parked-in Pictures drive-in movies!! Park-In Pictures have brought the new ‘old school’ drive-in, right here to Canberra, located at Majura Park.

We were recently lucky enough to be invited to see Sex And The City: The Movie. There are a range of movies on offer, from comedies to action films to family movies the whole fam can enjoy. Better yet, each weekend one of Majura Park Shopping Centre's food retailers caters the event.

This weekend Zambrero is catering the early session movies with their delicious range of Mexican food. We enjoyed their delicious burritos, and a chocolate brownie and white chocolate brownie for dessert - which made for the perfect movie watching treats!!

There are also a range of snacks available at the onsite snack bar from popcorn to chocolate bars, soft drinks and ice cream - all your movie faves! You can pre-order food and extras when you purchase your ticket.

All food and snacks are delivered straight to your car, fully contactless - so helloooooo PJs!

Thanks Park-In Pictures and Zambrero for such a fun night, and for allowing to me to fulfill a bucket list dream! Find all the deets at the Park-In Pictures page, and don’t forget to use my code TOEAT25 to get 25% off your ticket!

Chic Asian Fusion

Chic Gourmet

Nothing beats a delicious hot meal on a wintery Canberra day, especially when it’s this delicious!

Chic Gourmet is a beautiful modern Asian fusion restaurant with something for everyone. It provides the perfect fusion of both conventional and contemporary Asian cuisines. Inspired by Chinese, Korean and Japanese influences, the menu is extensive including dim sum, chicken, pork, beef, lamb, seafood, vegetable, rice and noodle dishes - and dessert too!

We started with dim sum of pork wontons in spicy sauce and Chic’s signature xiao long bao which were both delicious - including generous meat portions with complex flavours, and perfectly spicy accompanying sauces with beautiful flavours from being stewed for hours. We also tried the cheesy prawn toast entree which was a delicious fusion of flavours I’ve never tried before but know I wanna have again!

For mains we had the stewed duck with beer & chilli oil; Szechuan deep-fried beef; Thai-style sweet & sour deep-fried eggplant and rice. And OMG - it was like a party in my mouth! I savored every bite til I couldn’t eat any more!

I love how I can go to one restaurant and it can offer so many delicious flavours and influences from different regions, in beautiful contemporary interiors with warm, welcoming and knowledgeable staff. So if you’re craving some delicious Asian cuisine then make sure you stop by!

Sizzle sizzle!

Insadong Waterfront Korean Restaurant

Korean fried chicken, spicy stew, and BBQ sets cooked right in front of your eyes at your table - what more could you want?!

We were recently lucky enough to be invited to Insadong Waterfront Korean Restaurant and it.was.incredible! From the moment we were warmly greeted and then opened the menu we knew it would be amazing.

We ordered the pork and beef 550g set which is an incredibly generous serving for two of various cuts of beef and pork - including pork belly and beef rib, pork neck, beef brisket and more. The set came with seaweed soup and Korean spicy noodles as well as a huge range of side dishes - think potato salad, kimchi, spicy bean sprouts with tofu, spicy mung bean paste, mixed vegetables and more.

We watched in awe and anticipation as the meat was cooked in front of us. Insadong has a unique coal and gas fire with fans inbuilt into the grill. The meats were cooked to perfection - so tender and full of flavour!

Next we tried the single serve of the spicy pork bone stew which was the perfect accompaniment - spicy with pork that fell off the bone with my chopsticks.

And we couldn’t resist a serve of Korean fried chicken!!! We were torn for choice so we opted to get a mix of half hot & crispy fried chicken and half soy garlic flavored - and it was amazing! The batter was perfect; so crispy and just the right amount of spice, balanced perfectly by the sweet chili and mustard side sauces. We also had beer and grape soju to drink with the meal which were so refreshing!

We couldn’t have loved the evening more - the team at Insadong were so friendly, welcoming and knowledgeable about all the food. Thank you Insadong for such a beautiful meal and wonderful evening - we can’t wait to come back again!

Brunching at its best

A Bite To Eat

Sundays call for brunch! If you’re feeling like a delicious bite to eat, then A Bite to Eat in Chifley is your go-to!

We visited recently and were spoilt for choice - they have a delicious all day brunch menu in addition to lunch options, hot drinks and even wine if you’re feeling inclined!

We started with some beautiful Campos coffees while we studied the menu. There were so many delicious options and we couldn’t decide between savory or sweet - so we went with both in the end!

The team were so friendly, attentive and helpful - noting that this is a common conundrum, and in order for us to have enough room to squeeze it in we could share the kid’s meal size version of their famous gingerbread pancakes with honey joy ice cream, berry coulis and caramelized nut praline! And HOMG - I’m sure glad we did as they taste just as amazing as they look!!!!

We also tried their brekky burger with soft fried egg, bacon, hash brown, rocket, cheese, and aoilo and tomato relish; and their wild mushrooms (sautéed) and roast pumpkin with broccolini fricasse, poached eggs with house made tomato and capsicum relish.

Everything was SO fresh and delicious! There’s really no better way to start the day, and we can’t wait to come back again already.

All hail the Bagel queen!

The Bagel Queen

All hail the bagel queen!!

There’s nothing I’d love more right now than to travel to New York City. But I am thrilled to say that despite the travel ban I can now enjoy New York style bagels right in my home town!

While sticking to the traditional methods, The Bagel Queen has taken the classic NY bagel and made it her own, with amazing flavours of bagels and cream cheeses. You can pick up to two flavour choices per 6 pack of ‘Biggen’ Bagels. Check out their page for their flavours of the week and delivery deets.

We were lucky enough to try the cheese & bacon bagels with garlic chive cream cheese, and the blueberry bagel with maple vanilla bean cream cheese. HOMG - SO damn delish!

As someone who grew up in the States, I dearly miss my beloved bagels, and these bagels are so authentic I feel like I’m there. The bagels are perfect - dense and chewy on the inside, while golden and crispy on the outside. And those cream cheeses OOFT!!

So to her Highness, I salut you! Or, um, bow or curtsy of whatever #YassKween

Taste the rainbow

Crepe Stop

Everyone knows the best part of rain is a rainbow. So on a cold and wet wintery Canberra weekend I could think of nothing better than a beautiful piping hot crepe - especially when they’re THIS good!

The Crepe Stop in Braddon has everything from savory to sweet crepes - think egg and bacon, feta and spinach, salmon through to Nutella, fresh fruit and chocolate bars!

I was recently lucky enough to try it out. I got the pepperoni and cheese crepe which was delicious - just like a pizza in a crepe! I also tried the candy bar crepe which was loaded with chocolate bars like Kitkat and Kinder and I added Nutella too. I also couldn’t help but ‘rainbow’ it too (because when in Rome right?!) - and let me tell you - it was incredible!

I got to watch along as the crepe was coloured with a rainbow effect right in front of me - it’s like a work of art and mesmerizing to watch... And eating it was even better!

I also loved trying the Topbrewer coffee machine at Crepe Stop - the only one of its kind in Aus! The coffee was delicious and the perfect addition to the crepes.

Thanks for having me Crepe Stop and bringing a rainbow to my day - I can’t wait to come back again already!

Thai with a modern twist

Thai Chiang Rai Kingston

As the days get cooler, I feel more and more like winter warming curries and spicy hot food to keep me warm.

If you are feeling like some delicious Thai food with a modern twist, then you should hit up Thai Chiang Rai in Kingston. Named after Chiang Rai in Northern Thailand, it’s no wonder the food is amazing - it has won multiple awards in the ACT.

It has everything from your traditional Thai classics to modern dishes, as well salad selections and a huge range of vegetarian dishes. We couldn’t decide so we tried a mix of everything and it.was.all. AH-MA-ZING.

First up we had Peking Duck pancakes, Paat Thai, Mussaman beef curry with coconut rice and roti. They were so rich and flavorful and winter warming. Then for the more exotic dishes we tried the aubergine stuffed with chicken, prawn and crab meat and the spicy Phuket prawns stir fried and infused with five flavors of spices - both of these dishes had such amazing and complex flavours, and were like nothing I’ve tried before (but can’t wait to have again)!

And then there’s booze! 🍷 Thai Chiang Rai is fully licensed and has a huge range of wine and beer to complement your meal. We had some delicious cold Singha and Chang beers which went down perfectly with the delicious and spicy meal.

So what are you waiting for?! During these Covid-19 times, Thai Chiang Rai is offering takeaway and delivery through its app or via Ubereats or Menulog - so support local and treat yourself to some delish Thai take-out tonight!

A virtually perfect evening

Molly Online Whisky Tasting

Fancy wetting your whistle with a spot of online whiskey tasting? And how bout one where you don’t even have to leave the comfort of your own home? In these times, I’d say that’s virtually perfect.

Molly is offering just that right now - private online whisky tasting sessions, where you are guided through the origins and flavor profiles of several distinctive whiskies. We were recently lucky enough to be invited to attend the Distillers Legacy online tasting featuring a progressive 6-whiskey and bourbon tasting showcasing the six Master Distillers of Buffalo Trace (aka the guys who were named Distillery of the Year at the San Francisco Spirits Competition last year). And by the end of the session it was clear why!

You don’t have to be an expert to love this experience - it works just as well for beginners as it does for the seasoned whisky drinker. During the 90-minute interactive masterclass you are guided by two knowledgeable whisky specialists who provide loads of history, the best tasting tips, and some excellent banter to boot.

The online tastings sessions are run via Zoom, and you can either collect your tasting pack in advance or get it delivered right to your door - featuring 20ml tasting bottles of all 6 featured products.

We tried an impressive range including: EH Taylor Small Batch, Blanton’s Single Barrel, Stagg Jr, Weller Special Reserve, Elmer T Lee and Buffalo Trace.

And what better to accompany a whisky tasting than charcuterie! We enjoyed the delicious Date Night box from Molly’s sister bar Amici which comes backed to the brim with Brie, blue cheese, Jamon Serrano, Salumi Copacollo, muscatels, cornichons, pickled peppers, quince, crackers and seasonal bark chocolate. Simply delicious!

Visit Molly’s website to book; I guarantee you’ll be in high spirits.

Injectibles I could get into

The Bunched Co

Thinking about glossing over Valentine’s Day? Donut even think about it!

If the special one in your life has a sweet tooth, then how about a delicious bouquet of donuts?

I can’t resist a delicious fluffy donut at the best of times, so when you add a Nutella-filled syringe into the mix I can tell you I am straight-up addicted. So if you haven’t tried them yet – it’s def worth a shot (#seewhatididthere).

Kristen Zeller is the brains behind The Bunched Co, an impressive young entrepreneur who started the business at the age of 18. Two years on, this local business still going strong - and it’s clear to see why.

The Bunched Co offers delicious treats - think milk chocolate-dipped strawberries, Nutella-filled donuts, mixed iced and sprinkle-dusted donuts - all wrapped up, presented beautifully, and delivered right to your door... what could be better? And delivery is free of charge to anywhere in Canberra!

All of the products are either handmade or sourced locally, which is abundantly clear right from that first bite – so fresh and delicious.

And while you could say a bouquet of donuts could technically last longer than a bouquet of flowers, that may depend on the audience... [She says, as she devours her third donut striaght in a row].

So go on - spoil someone you love. And if you’re lucky they might share some with you!

Green eggs and ham to make Dr Seuss proud

Space Kitchen

Space Kitchen recently launched a new menu, and if you thought you loved it before, then prepare yourself for some more visits to love it even more.

I was lucky enough to get to visit recently - and the only hard part was deciding what to have from the amazing selection! We started with a white chocolate mocha that was so beautifully rich - the taste you can only get with real chocolate, and the Nutella and pretzel shake which was devilishly decadent.

For our mains we tried the Space Green Eggs and Ham with ginger and miso glazed pork belly, smoked hollandaide, poached eggs, pickled cabbage and kale; the corn, zucchini and halloumi Breakfast Fritters with poached eggs, beetroot hummus, Moroccan cous cous, dukkah and dill creme fraiche; and the Eaton Mess Waffle with cinnamon donut waffles, fresh berries, malt custard, vanilla ice cream and meringue.

It was such a work of art I just couldn’t bring myself to destroy it. Just kidding - OF COURSE I ATE IT - look at it - it was AH-MA-ZING!!!

As well as being beautifully presented (#instagramgoals) every single thing we ate was so fresh and the combination of complex flavours just made everything ‘pop’ in your mouth.

Then you can’t forget - dessert! My challenge to you in visiting will be leaving enough SPACE for it after your meal (seewhatididthere). We had the Snow White with white chocolate and vanilla bean cream, dulce de leche, hazelnut praline biscuit and vanilla sponge; and the Ferrero Rocher with vanilla hazelnut praline, Ferrero Rocher mousse, chocolate sponge dipped in chocolate and hazelnuts - and we got some salted caramel to drizzle on top - OMG!

They.Were.So.Delicious! I didn’t want it to end - I highly recommend and can’t wait to come again.

Having a blast

Atomic Canberra

I had an absolute blast at the much-anticipated launch of Atomic Canberra. You see, it’s all positives and I’ve had my ion it for a while (#seewhatIdidthere).

I was recently lucky enough to be invited to the official launch event and there’s no doubt in my mind that this place will take off. And with Instagram’s @experience.eats partnering with Questacon, it’s also no surprise the food and drink offerings are out of this world.

Think ‘sci-tea’ with moon rocks, zen stones and galaxy macarons in an igloo under a stunning colossal glowing moon; mini mushroom and beef pies and green-bun fried chicken sliders; and the most mind-blowing grazing tables.

And don’t forget the drinks! Champs, beer, salted caramel vodka cocktails and Cosmorex Coffee espresso martinis, light bulb fruity vodka cocktails, mango fruit punch with Proud & Punch popsicles inside - and the list goes on!!!

After hearing about what’s in the pipeline, I can’t wait to come back again! Do yourself a favour and come check it out.

Back in the wild

Zoo Bar & Grill

If you told me last year we‘d be in captivity in our homes for months I’d say you’re lion as that’d be unbearable!

Well relax, as now the ACT has lifted Covid restrictions - as the Zoo Bar & Brill menu says - it’s feeding time!

Zoo offers a multilevel venue where party animals can play. Zoo Bar & Grill is at the ground level offering casual dining, DJs and live performances.

We tried out their new menu and cocktails and it was fabulous! We started with the lemon berry cheesecake cocktail with chocolate mist, and needless to say it’s obvious why this baby is award-winning. We also tried the Hubba bubba grape cocktail which offers a delicious nod to our fave candy as kids: sweet and light and perfect to start.

We then had the buffalo and coconut wings, the trio of tacos (fish, chorizo, chicken) and the spiced beef skewers with tzatziki and lemon and chargrilled bread. Each of these starter dishes were generous in size and delicious in their own way: the wings and beef skewers were juicy and flavorful and the tacos were perfectly spicy and tangy. We also tried the amaretto kiwi sour cocktail which was a lovely variation of an amaretto sour with a little tart kick.

For mains we had the angus eye fillet and the porterhouse. Both are very generous in size and come with a choice of sauce (we had the pepper sauce and mushroom gravy) and sides (we had veg including corn on the cob and baked jacket potatoes). Best of all, we got to see them sizzle on our own personal stone grills at the table! An amazing experience - and one that allows you to cook your steak exactly how you like. With mains we enjoyed the baby yoda and Cuba cabaret cocktails which perfectly complimented our thick juicy steaks.

Then while we were about to burst, we managed to squeeze in a digestif: Fernet-Branca served on ice and garnished with some flaming orange peels #lit (because we simply couldn’t resist)!

Everything was so delicious and the staff looked after us so well. You can tell they love what they do and are damn good at it. So if you haven’t been pre-pandemic - or even if you have - then make sure you check out Zoo soon. I promise you’ll have a wild time!

Bunkered down for Cocktails

Beirut Bunker Bar

On the eleventh day of Christmas, my true love gave to me… some cocktails in the city!

So if you’ve been living underground, you might not have already heard that Beirut Bunker Bar is a place I’d be happy to bunker down in any day.

I was lucky enough to try out some of their delicious cocktails before Christmas and I was seriously spoilt for choice.

Seeking inspiration from underground bunker bars, this new cocktail bar brings Beirut-inspired beats and treats.

Not only is there an extensive collection of Australian top-shelf liquor, beer, wine and ciders – but there are also new cocktails concocted every WEEK! And in December they released three new Christmas-inspired cocktails each week to bring together 12 Cocktails of Christmas.

And if that wasn’t enough (or you didn’t make it in time) - there’s also boozed up bubble tea! Right down to creating the caviar pearls in-house (#science). SO – we made sure to try a whole bunch of cocktails (you’re welcome) and while they were all delicious, my fave would have to be the vodka, dark chocolate, coconut, milk and candied pomegranate ‘White Christmas’ – and boy, I know I’ll be dreaming of it.

Think inside the box

Grease Monkey

Well, it’s official. This is the one time you’ll hear me saying you should start thinking inside the box, because Grease Monkey’s new Detroit-style pizza (DSP) is here and it. is. AMAZING.

I was lucky enough to be invited to get a sneak peak before their official launch. So what is DSP exactly? Let’s take this layer by layer.

You start off with Greasy’s tasty pizza sauces (think red sauce, vodka, romesco bbq etc), then you’ve got whatever toppings combo you’ve chosen (think pepperoni, jalapeño, chorizo, basil, etc), then a Detroit cheese blend, and the most light and fluffy dough base with a delicious caramelised crust - where the cheese goes all the way to the end!

And with a nod to Braddon’s greasy roots, it’s all baked in a rectangular auto parts tray!!

There are eight delicious pizzas in the range, and they are all far from your stock standard usual - all of them have that special Greasy’s touch. Located where Catch used to be, this is a hot spot you’ve gotta hit up soon! I can’t wait to come back already.

Brunch, brew and booch

Gather Park

Brunch, brew and booch - what more could a girl want?! Gather Park has it all and more - and is an amazing brunch destination!

I was recently lucky enough to dine at the new Gather Park, overlooking beautiful and iconic Glebe Park right in the city. Located at the base of the Manhattan on the Park building, Gather Park is a pop-up venture, and the sister cafe to Café Gather in Braddon.

Like it’s sister, Gather Park continues to bring its local, sustainable, healthy, community driven approach to café dining, as well as their signature home brewed kombuchas, juices and kefir.

We tried the huevos rancheros, which was the perfect mix of hearty and spicy; and a create-your-own mix of poached eggs with home made arepa, maple bacon, halloumi and broccolini.

We also couldn’t resist the kombucha - trying the orange and ginger, and raspberry and lemon.

And don’t forget the coffee! Not only are there your regular faves, but also their home brewed cold brew and their cold brew kombucha! Trust me - it was heavenly.

Despite being full we then couldn’t resist dessert! We tried their homemade muesli slice and Portuguese tart - and both were phenomenal.

Everything we ate and drank was so delicious - that taste you can only get when food is prepared from beautiful fresh and locally sourced ingredients.

Not only that, but the staff were so attentive and clearly love what they do and put their hearts and souls into it. It’s no wonder Gather was recently awarded both the ACT Cafe of the Year and ACT Cafe Dining awards - it’s very well deserved.

Pours and paws with a cause

Pets & Pimms

Pets & Pimms – what a purrr-fect pair! Because really, what more could you want on a Saturday than petting a posh pooch? I think you’d be dog-gone mad not to enjoy this.

Recently I was lucky enough to be invited to the sold-out Pets & Pimms event in Hotel Kurrajong’s gorgeous courtyard outside Chifley’s Bar & Grill.

The event had Hotel Kurrajong and Chifley’s Bar & Grill partnering with the RSPCA in ACT to throw a fabulous garden party with some adorable four-legged companions from the local pet shelter.

Every ticket included a refreshing Pimms cocktail (with non-alcoholic options also available) and importantly a donation going straight to the RSPCA.

Now that’s what I call pours/paws with a cause!

Sweet Dreams while wide awake

Sweet Dreams Festival

Sweet Dreams while wide awake
Can you have Sweet Dreams while you’re wide awake? Cuz that’s what happened to me at the Sweet Dreams music festival – the first time this festival took place in Canberra!!

Long gone are the days of the dagwood dog.

Instead, I got my eat and drink on with some of the best artisanal food and drink offerings from local faves like Zaab, Momoda, Bellerophon Coffee, Loose Gourmet Churros, The Sweet Tooth Society, Capital Brewing, Bare Bones BBQ, Detoni Patisserie, Bob and Pete’s Yum, Sabi Beverages, The Truffle Farm and more!!

The soulful RNB & Hip Hop vibes were amazing, and getting our glow on in the nighttime with the impressive line up of international, national and local artists – Citizen Kay, Kirklandd, Myrne, Throttle, Luke Million and so many more. And while it may have been a wet day, it certainly didn’t rain on anyone’s parade.

King Pong

Zaab Annual Beer Pong Championships

Beer Pong, Bentspoke beer, and the chance to win a trip to Thailand?! Sign me UP!

My teammate and I had the best time at the Zaab annual Beer Pong Championships!

We eagerly awaited the scores after all the first rounds were complete to see in if our ‘King Pong’ team was still in the running to win the trip to Thailand in 2019. While we made the first rounds, we didn’t make it to the end.

We had so much fun playing pong and drinking Bentspoke beer though that regardless of the outcome we knew we were still winning.

Hats off to Zaab for putting on such an amazing and fun event year after year. I know I’ll be trying to hone my pong skills for another chance at victory next time around.

A win-win gamble

Natural Nine

I’m not much of a gambler, but after trying the 9 dish roulette banquet @naturalnine_cbr I can safely say that this is one game of roulette that is win-win, and I’d bet you’ll love it.

Dishes can include edamame with lapsang souchong salt; chicken and prawn dumplings with black vinegar; vegetable springrolls with native currant dipping sauce, tempura king prawn and wasabi mayo steamed mantou; kungpau lamb ribs with pickled ginger - and that’s just getting started!

Equally delicious was the katsu chicken noodle salad; flank steak with soy glaze, braised radicchio and Tasmanian wasabi; and five spice braised tofu with green beans - I loved every bite, and that was only some of it!

The cocktails are fabulous also - the sinful apple pie is a sin worth committing with @fireball_au whisky with apple, pineapple and lemon juice. The pomegranate sour with @tanqueraygin, pomegranate and lemon juice was also delicious #ginandjuice.

If that’s not your poison, you’re bound to find another fave - the old fashion no.3 with bulliet rye, angostura bitters and an orange twist; and the chili passion with cachaça, passionfruit liqueur, cranberry juice and chilli syrup - so many noms.

And don’t forget dessert! The brioche frenchtoast dessert with jasmine poached pear and vanilla bean icecream is to die for. And with the ‘r n b’ cocktail it is as aptly smooth with rubis liquor, angostura bitters and buffalo trace bourbon, and if you’re an espresso martini fan you‘ll love the ‘carajillo diable’ which has tequila blanco, coffee liqueur, agave and fresh espresso.

And if you’re a fan of yum cha, then you won’t want to miss out on their Pop Yum Cha! I mean, what could possibly be better than an abundance of dumplings and other delicious bite-sized and saucy noms? That’s right - NOTHING!!! Dishes include the crazy chilli chicken steamed bun; garlic and chilli cucumber; vegetable and wood ear mushroom springroll with native currant dipping sauce; smoked duck sticky rice cigar; squid tentacles in ginger and spring onion - and that’s just getting started!

All up - a fab way to spend a night or a lunch - a game changer if you will.