What's new in NSW - May 2023

News 11 months ago | By Destination NSW

Bowery Kitchen and Bar Credit: Bowery Kitchen and Bar

Megalong is set up amidst the LOT 101 farm and vegetable gardens in the beautiful Megalong Valley; two hours drive from Sydney. With seating up to 60, the restaurant offers 360-degree views of escarpment and bushland.

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4 May 2023 What's new in NSW - May 2023 <p>Connect to makers, growers, locals and nature in NSW this month, with engaging farm visits, new tours across both the land and sky, inspiring places to eat and drink and new accommodation that will transform you. </p> <h2>EXPERIENCES </h2> <h3>Pick-your-own produce </h3> <p>Experience the joy of picking fruit straight from the tree and flowers straight from the soil they are grown in with the new <a href="https://www.lovecentralcoast.com/pick-your-own">Central Coast</a> pick-your-own produce seasonal guide. Pick oranges at Meliora Farm, sunflowers at the Giving Farm, pecans at Artisan Estate Farm Stay and more. </p> <h3>A country cycle </h3> <p>Get closer to the dramatic peaks of the Warrumbungles and the intriguing rock sculptures of Pilliga on the new seven-day <a href="https://www.australiancycletours.com.au/new-south-wales/central-west/supported/warrumbungles-and-pilliga-bike-and-hike">Hike and Bike tour from Australian Cycle Tours</a>. Explore scenic country backroads on an e-bike, then venture further into the valleys and peaks on foot. Groups are small and accommodation includes rural farm stays and camping throughout the trip. </p> <h3>Seeing South Coast stars </h3> <p>Journey through the night sky above Nelsons Beach with <a href="https://www.jervisbaystargazing.com.au/">Jervis Bay Stargazing</a>, newly launched by the acclaimed team behind Blue Mountains Stargazing. The 90-minute tour is guided by an astrophysicist and includes constellation storytelling, views through state-of-the-art telescopes and binoculars, and a souvenir. </p> <h3>Do the locomotion </h3> <p>Feel the chug of a traditional steam train during <a href="https://www.thnsw.com.au/bathurst">Bathurst Steam Weekend</a> from 10-12 June. Climb aboard a special 1.5-hour ride from Bathurst to Wimbledon and return, or book a half-day experience that takes you to Orange and back. Choose from open saloon seating or a compartment for up to six. Plus, ticket holders get 20% off admission to the Bathurst Rail Museum! </p> <h2>FOOD & DRINK </h2> <h3>Dinner in a church </h3> <p>Dine and drink in a Federation Romanesque-style church at <a href="https://www.bowerykatoomba.com.au/">Bowery Kitchen and Bar</a>, a new Blue Mountains bistro in Katoomba. Created by the team behind nearby Avalon Restaurant, the menu is inspired by dishes from around the globe, while cocktails from the bar utilise Australian-made spirits. </p> <h3>Ciao Central Coast </h3> <p>Serving up woodfired pizzas and authentic antipasti in Mediterranean-inspired surrounds, <a href="https://www.budgewoihotel.com.au/lago-cucina">Lago Cucina</a> is a chic Italian trattoria in the newly renovated Budgewoi Hotel on the Central Coast. Head in for slow-cooked ragu and crisp zucchini flowers and linger for a drink at the terrazzo bar. </p> <h3>Graze your way through Hastings </h3> <p>A delicious way to experience the Mid-North Coast’s Hastings region is via the self-drive <a href="https://hastingsfarmgate.au/">Hastings Farm Gate Tour</a>. From Friday to Monday over the June long weekend, local farmers will open their gates for visitors to sample their produce and learn their farming methods. Pick up pastured beef from Doraville Organics, native bushfoods from Barbushco, yoghurt and cheese from Hastings Riverland Milk and more. </p> <h3>Meet the brewer </h3> <p>Gerringong’s family-run craft beer brewery <a href="https://www.visitnsw.com/destinations/south-coast/kiama-area/gerringong/food-and-drink/stoic-brewing">Stoic Brewing</a> has launched a <a href="https://www.stoicbrewing.com.au/brewery-tour">behind-the-scenes tour</a> run by their head brewer, Jono. On the 90-minute tour, visitors will see the brewing process from grain to glass, learn the history of the business, be treated to a guided tasting featuring Stoic’s signature brews and get a t-shirt to take home. </p> <h3>Mega tasty </h3> <p>Immerse yourself in a true farm-to-table experience at <a href="https://www.megalongrestaurant.com.au/">Megalong</a>, a new Blue Mountains restaurant beautifully nestled into a Megalong Valley farm producing its own olives, berries, honey, poultry, beef, herbs, vegetables and more. Executive chef Colin Barker (ex The Boathouse on Blackwattle Bay) transforms the farm bounty into an exquisite and ever-changing set menu served to an elegant dining room with views of the farm. </p> <h2>ACCOMMODATION </h2> <h3>Escape to the hinterland </h3> <p>Tucked between rolling farmland and lush rainforest, settle into <a href="https://selahvalley.com.au/limpinwood/">Selah Valley</a>’s three new luxury cabins in Tyalgum, in the Tweed hinterland. The one- and two-bedroom self-contained cabins feature modern kitchens, dining and lounge rooms, bathrooms, private decks, and outdoor firepits with endless nature views. </p> <h3>Stylish stay in the Gong </h3> <p><a href="https://www.hoteltotto.com/">Hotel Totto</a> offers a cool new place to stay the night in Wollongong. Just a few minutes from the beach, the 150-room property features minimalist design, self-service check-in, a ground-floor cafe and the Mediterranean-inspired restaurant and bar, <a href="https://www.rydges.com/accommodation/wollongong-nsw/hotel-totto/eat-drink/basta/">Basta</a>. </p>
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Connect to makers, growers, locals and nature in NSW this month, with engaging farm visits, new tours across both the land and sky, inspiring places to eat and drink and new accommodation that will transform you.

EXPERIENCES

Pick-your-own produce

Experience the joy of picking fruit straight from the tree and flowers straight from the soil they are grown in with the new Central Coast pick-your-own produce seasonal guide. Pick oranges at Meliora Farm, sunflowers at the Giving Farm, pecans at Artisan Estate Farm Stay and more.

A country cycle

Get closer to the dramatic peaks of the Warrumbungles and the intriguing rock sculptures of Pilliga on the new seven-day Hike and Bike tour from Australian Cycle Tours. Explore scenic country backroads on an e-bike, then venture further into the valleys and peaks on foot. Groups are small and accommodation includes rural farm stays and camping throughout the trip.

Seeing South Coast stars

Journey through the night sky above Nelsons Beach with Jervis Bay Stargazing, newly launched by the acclaimed team behind Blue Mountains Stargazing. The 90-minute tour is guided by an astrophysicist and includes constellation storytelling, views through state-of-the-art telescopes and binoculars, and a souvenir.

Do the locomotion

Feel the chug of a traditional steam train during Bathurst Steam Weekend from 10-12 June. Climb aboard a special 1.5-hour ride from Bathurst to Wimbledon and return, or book a half-day experience that takes you to Orange and back. Choose from open saloon seating or a compartment for up to six. Plus, ticket holders get 20% off admission to the Bathurst Rail Museum!

Megalong Restaurant Credit: Lot 1

Bowery Kitchen and Bar Credit: Bowery Kitchen and Bar

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FOOD & DRINK

Dinner in a church

Dine and drink in a Federation Romanesque-style church at Bowery Kitchen and Bar, a new Blue Mountains bistro in Katoomba. Created by the team behind nearby Avalon Restaurant, the menu is inspired by dishes from around the globe, while cocktails from the bar utilise Australian-made spirits.

Ciao Central Coast

Serving up woodfired pizzas and authentic antipasti in Mediterranean-inspired surrounds, Lago Cucina is a chic Italian trattoria in the newly renovated Budgewoi Hotel on the Central Coast. Head in for slow-cooked ragu and crisp zucchini flowers and linger for a drink at the terrazzo bar.

Graze your way through Hastings

A delicious way to experience the Mid-North Coast’s Hastings region is via the self-drive Hastings Farm Gate Tour. From Friday to Monday over the June long weekend, local farmers will open their gates for visitors to sample their produce and learn their farming methods. Pick up pastured beef from Doraville Organics, native bushfoods from Barbushco, yoghurt and cheese from Hastings Riverland Milk and more.

Meet the brewer

Gerringong’s family-run craft beer brewery Stoic Brewing has launched a behind-the-scenes tour run by their head brewer, Jono. On the 90-minute tour, visitors will see the brewing process from grain to glass, learn the history of the business, be treated to a guided tasting featuring Stoic’s signature brews and get a t-shirt to take home.

Mega tasty

Immerse yourself in a true farm-to-table experience at Megalong, a new Blue Mountains restaurant beautifully nestled into a Megalong Valley farm producing its own olives, berries, honey, poultry, beef, herbs, vegetables and more. Executive chef Colin Barker (ex The Boathouse on Blackwattle Bay) transforms the farm bounty into an exquisite and ever-changing set menu served to an elegant dining room with views of the farm.

ACCOMMODATION

Escape to the hinterland

Tucked between rolling farmland and lush rainforest, settle into Selah Valley’s three new luxury cabins in Tyalgum, in the Tweed hinterland. The one- and two-bedroom self-contained cabins feature modern kitchens, dining and lounge rooms, bathrooms, private decks, and outdoor firepits with endless nature views.

Stylish stay in the Gong

Hotel Totto offers a cool new place to stay the night in Wollongong. Just a few minutes from the beach, the 150-room property features minimalist design, self-service check-in, a ground-floor cafe and the Mediterranean-inspired restaurant and bar, Basta.

Dorian Restaurant Credit: Dorian Restaurant

Fred's x Max Coen, as part of the Vivid Chef Series in Vivid Food.

#feelnewsydney

Vivid Food 2024 set to sizzle with international and local talent 1 week ago <h3>A line-up of globally renowned chefs will feature across Vivid Residence, Vivid Chef Series and Vivid Fire Kitchen as part of Vivid Sydney 2024</h3> <p>Tickets on sale from Friday 19 April at vividsydney.com</p> <p>Imagery: <a href="https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/acz5cibydvz5z4rrv27ps/AHFKQkrBWsnLrUrTIyuGVw4?rlkey=0mcrlbt30o62s0vrmfuln2ny5&st=5tunnd97&dl=0">here</a><br /><br /> From near and far, some of the hottest names in the culinary world will appear at Vivid Sydney this year as part of Vivid Food, embracing the festival’s 2024 theme, <em>Humanity</em>, and highlighting food as a fundamental part of the human experience, connecting us through the universal language of cuisine.</p> <p>This year’s roster of renowned local and international culinary talent across Vivid Residence, Vivid Chef Series and Vivid Fire Kitchen will craft diverse, innovative menus that celebrate our shared heritage and the rich tapestry of global cultures present in Sydney’s food scene, through a series of dynamic events spanning intimate fine dining experiences through to communal fire-cooked feasts.<br /><br /> Vivid Residence will bring Latin America’s best female chef 2022, Manoella ‘Manu’ Buffara of Manu Restaurant, to take over Peter Conistis’ waterside venue, Ploós, while hatted restaurants Fred’s, AALIA and The Charles Brasserie & Bar will be among the top dining spots hosting Vivid Chef Series events and unmissable foodie collaborations with Michelin-starred chefs including Max Coen, Sally Abé and Ivan Brehm.</p> <p>Vivid Fire Kitchen returns to the Vivid Food program in a new home on the Vivid Sydney Light Walk with the world’s best pitmasters and BBQ heroes including Christine Manfield; Firedoor's Lennox Hastie; Texas' Jess Pryles; Michelin-starred Swedish chef Niklas Ekstedt; LA’s Shalamar Lane and more, firing up The Goods Line with cooking demonstrations and tasty BBQ fare from tandoor and teppanyaki to First Nations tucker.</p> <p>This announcement bolsters an already impressive Vivid Food 2024 program including the Our Shared Humanity series featuring leading Australian chefs; Atelier by Sofitel – A Culinary Connection; VividPlace Food Trail, A Culinary Canvas by Danielle Alvarez, the return of Aster Vivid 2024 and much more, all with a nod to <em>Vivid Sydney, Humanity. </em></p> <h3>John Graham, Minister for Jobs and Tourism, Minister for the Arts, Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy, said:</h3> <p>“After a successful launch last year, I am pleased to see Vivid Food returning for a second year. Food is a cultural cornerstone, a fundamental part of the human experience, something we can all share and through that shared experience, enjoy new flavours and perspectives.</p> <p>“Sydney has a wonderful food scene and Vivid Food is a great chance to explore that local scene. The Vivid Food program will range from headline experiences including the free BBQ demonstrations at Vivid Fire Kitchen. We invite Sydneysiders and visitors from across the globe to join us and enjoy one of Sydney’s great strengths.”</p> <h3>Vivid Sydney Festival Director and Vivid Food curator Gill Minervini said:</h3> <p>“Vivid Food captures the essence of our shared humanity through the global language of food. It’s a celebration of how cuisine can mirror the diversity of cultures, while also being a bridge that connects us all. We’re thrilled to announce the incredible local and international culinary talent joining the Vivid Food program across Vivid Residence, Vivid Chef Series and Vivid Fire Kitchen, who will bring to life the rich tapestry of Sydney’s food scene. Our diverse range of Vivid Food events, from intimate dining experiences to communal feasts, promises to bring people together and showcase the unique and collective culinary heritage that makes our city so special.”</p> <h3>Stephanie Calape, Vice President of Culinary Events at IMG, which produces Vivid Residence, Vivid Chef Series and Vivid Fire Kitchen in collaboration with Vivid Sydney, said:</h3> <p>“Following the phenomenal popularity of last year’s inaugural Vivid Food experiences, which saw Vivid Residence sell out within 48 hours, we are excited to bring back another incredible, diverse array of experiences and chefs for 2024. From world-renowned Chef Manoella Buffara’s one-of-a-kind fine dining Vivid Residence experience at Sydney’s Ploós, to Vivid Chef Series’ unmissable mash-up of Sydney and the world’s most exciting chefs, and the star-studded, immersive Vivid Fire Kitchen festival, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”</p> <h3>Vivid Residence</h3> <p>Culinary artistry meets social responsibility at Vivid Residence as Latin America’s Best Female Chef 2022, Manoella Buffara of Manu Restaurant, Brazil, which was awarded the The Flor de Caña Sustainable Restaurant Award 2023, graces Peter Conistis’ waterfront venue, Ploós, right in the heart of the Vivid Sydney Light Walk. Renowned for putting Curitiba on the global culinary map, Buffara’s approach integrates local produce with a commitment to environmental and social sustainability. During her Vivid Sydney residency, Buffara will showcase her pioneering approach to fine dining for the first time in Australia, celebrating New South Wales’ produce alongside her team and Ploós's esteemed chefs. </p> <p>Chef Manoella Buffara said: “I’m incredibly excited to be part of Vivid Food in Sydney, an event that highlights the importance of cuisine in our culture. As the culinary capital of Australia, Sydney becomes a hub for vibrant flavour exchanges, bringing together top chefs and local producers to create memorable food experiences. In the heart of this bustling city, I will launch a pop-up that showcases my love for high-quality ingredients and authentic flavours. Sharing my cooking and stories with Sydney is a true honour, and I look forward to being part of this amazing food event that Vivid Food offers.”</p> <p>Buffara and the team will create two menus, with a nine-course tasting menu for dinner, and a seven-course tasting menu for lunch. Tickets for the nine-course dinner menu are $420 per person, with the shorter lunch tasting menu costing $320, with bespoke beverage pairings also available. Vivid Residence will run from 24 May to 2 June 2024 offering a unique dining experience in the middle of the Vivid Sydney Light Walk. Tickets go on sale Friday 19 April at vividsydney.com/food.</p> <h3>Vivid Chef Series</h3> <p>The Vivid Chef Series will take over Sydney’s food scene, with the city’s best hatted restaurants and chefs pairing with some of the world’s most exciting culinary talent to bring the global contemporary culinary scene to Sydney for a limited number of nights.</p> <p>The series of exclusive dinners will see local and international talent collaborate to create a never-to-be repeated menu that celebrates the best NSW produce and suppliers, imbued with global culinary sophistication.</p> <p>London chef Sally Abé, who will take over The Charles Brasserie & Bar as part of Vivid Chef Series, said: “As a passionate chef, I am thrilled to be a part of the Vivid Food series in Sydney. It is an incredible platform that celebrates the intersection of art, culture, and gastronomy, allowing me to showcase my culinary skills in a vibrant and innovative setting. I am excited to immerse myself in the diverse food scene of Sydney and collaborate with talented chefs from around the world, creating unforgettable culinary experiences.”</p> <p>Chef collaborations include:</p> <ul><li>The Charles Brasserie & Bar x Sally Abé | Once comrades in arms on the other side of the globe whilst working at the three Michelin-starred restaurant The Ledbury in London, Sally Abé of The Pem will be reuniting with Billy Hannigan of Sydney’s hatted The Charles Brasserie & Bar, for three unmissable lunches and dinners. The menu will merge Hannigan’s European-inspired cooking style with Abe’s passion for nostalgic British cuisine. Joining them in the kitchen will be head pastry chef Rhiann Mead, who will add her signature sweet and innovative flair to the evening.</li> <li>AALIA x Ivan Brehm | Ivan Brehm of Michelin-starred Singapore restaurant, Nouri and Paul Farag of AALIA (two hatted Sydney restaurant, previously named Gourmet Traveller’s NSW restaurant of the year, 2023) will collaborate on two exclusive dinners that celebrate global food traditions. The dinners will blend AALIA’s expertise in Middle Eastern cuisine with Nouri’s celebration of global food traditions, for a menu that honours diversity of cultures paying tribute to the richness of our collective culinary heritage.</li> <li> Fred’s x Max Coen | Max Coen of London Michelin-starred Dorian and Ben Greeno of acclaimed Sydney restaurant, Fred’s will unite for four exclusive dinners that fuse their culinary philosophies. Chef Coen’s meticulous focus on ingredient-focussed wood-fired grilling will meet Greeno’s farm-to-table approach and hyper-seasonal cooking, for a menu that celebrates the beauty and artistry found in simplicity, all while utilising the best in local produce.</li> </ul><p>Tickets go on sale Friday 19 April at <a href="vividsydney.com/food">vividsydney.com/food.</a></p> <h3>Vivid Fire Kitchen</h3> <p>Vivid Fire Kitchen will light up its new home of The Goods Line across 23 nights, with the world’s best pitmasters and BBQ heroes joining forces with acclaimed local flame-focused restaurants for a festival of accessible fire demos, cooking sessions and exclusive BBQ dishes, with drinks, DJs and entertainment ablaze with Fire Sculptures, Flame Shooters and fire drums. Using the best NSW produce, a line-up of acclaimed local and international chefs will serve up a selection of flame-seared street food from around the globe, from tandoor and Argentinian Asado, First Nations tucker, alongside hearty sausages, tender brisket, charred eggplant, and aromatic satay, offering a nightly multicultural feast.</p> <p>Guests will enjoy demonstrations combining local produce and raw-fire cooking from chef and restaurateur Lennox Hastie of Sydney’s two-hatted Firedoor who returns for Vivid Food 2024; one of Australia’s most celebrated chefs and culinary ambassadors Christine Manfield; reigning Seafood Champion in the World Food Championships, John McFadden; chef, restaurateur, proud Bundjalung woman and owner of Karkalla restaurant, Mindy Woods; Michelin starred chef of Sweden’s Ekstedt at The Yard, Niklas Ekstedt; Texas-based live fire cook, author, TV personality Jess Pryles; Pitmaster of LA-based My Father’s Barbeque, Shalamar Lane and more.</p> <p>Australian chef and restaurateur Lennox Hastie who will appear at Vivid Fire Kitchen, said: “For me, food is an integral part of my creative expression because it engages all my senses and allows me to connect with ingredients and people on a deeply personal level. Vivid Food celebrates the rich and diverse nature of our food culture of Australia, reminding us that food is not just about sustenance but a powerful form of connection supporting community, evoking emotions, and creating lasting memories.”</p> <p>Alongside BBQ offerings and the blazing atmosphere on the Vivid Sydney Light Walk, Vivid Sydney audiences will also be able to enjoy dishes from a curated selection of Sydney’s hottest dining concepts at Vivid Fire Kitchen, from casual eateries to acclaimed restaurants, including Messina Milk Bar, a culinary time capsule that transforms beloved chocolate bars and classic sweets into modern gelato delights. A menu highlight: a warm Milo fudge sundae, specially developed to warm you up on cold winter nights.</p> <p>Vivid Residence, Vivid Chef Series and Vivid Fire Kitchen events are produced by IMG in collaboration with Vivid Sydney. IMG is the global events company behind the likes of Gourmet Escape, Taste Festivals, The Big Feastival, New York Fashion Week: The Shows and Frieze art fairs.<br /><br /> Vivid Food is part of Vivid Sydney, the Southern Hemisphere’s leading multi-artform festival, which will run from 24 May to 15 June 2024. Tickets for Vivid Residence and Vivid Chef Series will go on sale Friday 19 April via<a href="https://www.vividsydney.com/food."> </a><a href="https://www.vividsydney.com/food.">https://www.vividsydney.com/food.</a> Vivid Fire Kitchen events, taking place at The Goods Line in Ultimo, are free for all to attend. Food and drink can be purchased on site.</p> <p>For more information and tickets, visit<a href="https://www.vividsydney.com/?utm_source=release&utm_medium=pr&utm_campaign=vivid_sydney_2023&utm_term=carriageworks&utm_content=launch"> vividsydney.com</a></p> <h3>Media contacts:</h3> <p>Hannah Fedeli, +61437166571 or <a href="mailto:hannah.f@thecru.agency">hannah.f@thecru.agency</a><br /> Shannon Blanchard, +61432543377 or <a href="mailto:shannon@thecru.agency">shannon@thecru.agency</a><br /> James Toovey, Vivid Sydney PR Manager, +61407828310 or james.toovey@dnsw.com.au</p> <h3>About Vivid Sydney</h3> <p><a href="https://www.vividsydney.com/?utm_source=release&utm_medium=pr&utm_campaign=vivid_sydney_2023&utm_term=carriageworks&utm_content=launch">Vivid Sydney</a> is the Southern Hemisphere’s leading multi-artform festival, celebrating creativity, innovation and technology, and transforming Sydney into a kaleidoscope of colour and events for 23 nights. Staged for its 14th year in 2024, Vivid Sydney will bring together mesmerising displays from the world’s brightest light artists, exhilarating live music performances, deep-dive discussions with thought leaders, and innovative experiences from food creatives. Vivid Sydney attracts domestic and international visitors, fuelling economic growth while fostering a cultural celebration across Light, Music, Ideas and Food. Vivid Sydney is owned, managed and produced by Destination NSW, the NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency. For more information and tickets, visit <a href="https://www.vividsydney.com/?utm_source=release&utm_medium=pr&utm_campaign=vivid_sydney_2023&utm_term=carriageworks&utm_content=launch">vividsydney.com</a> </p> <h3>About Destination NSW</h3> <p>Destination NSW is the champion and voice for the visitor economy within the NSW Government. Spearheading a whole-of-government approach to visitor economy growth, Destination NSW influences and shapes the visitor economy through strategic research, policy and thought leadership, stakeholder engagement and consultation, commercial partnerships and investment in visitor experiences, business support, marketing and events. Destination NSW is also the major investor in Business Events Sydney (BESydney) for the purpose of securing more international and domestic conventions, incentive travel reward programs, corporate events and exhibitions.</p> <h3>About IMG</h3> <p>IMG is a global sports, events and representation company. It is a leader in rights management, multi-channel content production and distribution, consultancy and fan engagement; owns, produces and commercially represents hundreds of live events and experiences; and manages licensing programs for the world’s best-known brands and trademarks. IMG is a subsidiary of Endeavor, a global sports and entertainment company.</p>
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Hashtags #feelnewsydney

A line-up of globally renowned chefs will feature across Vivid Residence, Vivid Chef Series and Vivid Fire Kitchen as part of Vivid Sydney 2024

Tickets on sale from Friday 19 April at vividsydney.com

Imagery: here

From near and far, some of the hottest names in the culinary world will appear at Vivid Sydney this year as part of Vivid Food, embracing the festival’s 2024 theme, Humanity, and highlighting food as a fundamental part of the human experience, connecting us through the universal language of cuisine.

This year’s roster of renowned local and international culinary talent across Vivid Residence, Vivid Chef Series and Vivid Fire Kitchen will craft diverse, innovative menus that celebrate our shared heritage and the rich tapestry of global cultures present in Sydney’s food scene, through a series of dynamic events spanning intimate fine dining experiences through to communal fire-cooked feasts.

Vivid Residence will bring Latin America’s best female chef 2022, Manoella ‘Manu’ Buffara of Manu Restaurant, to take over Peter Conistis’ waterside venue, Ploós, while hatted restaurants Fred’s, AALIA and The Charles Brasserie & Bar will be among the top dining spots hosting Vivid Chef Series events and unmissable foodie collaborations with Michelin-starred chefs including Max Coen, Sally Abé and Ivan Brehm.

Vivid Fire Kitchen returns to the Vivid Food program in a new home on the Vivid Sydney Light Walk with the world’s best pitmasters and BBQ heroes including Christine Manfield; Firedoor's Lennox Hastie; Texas' Jess Pryles; Michelin-starred Swedish chef Niklas Ekstedt; LA’s Shalamar Lane and more, firing up The Goods Line with cooking demonstrations and tasty BBQ fare from tandoor and teppanyaki to First Nations tucker.

This announcement bolsters an already impressive Vivid Food 2024 program including the Our Shared Humanity series featuring leading Australian chefs; Atelier by Sofitel – A Culinary Connection; VividPlace Food Trail, A Culinary Canvas by Danielle Alvarez, the return of Aster Vivid 2024 and much more, all with a nod to Vivid Sydney, Humanity.

John Graham, Minister for Jobs and Tourism, Minister for the Arts, Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy, said:

“After a successful launch last year, I am pleased to see Vivid Food returning for a second year. Food is a cultural cornerstone, a fundamental part of the human experience, something we can all share and through that shared experience, enjoy new flavours and perspectives.

“Sydney has a wonderful food scene and Vivid Food is a great chance to explore that local scene. The Vivid Food program will range from headline experiences including the free BBQ demonstrations at Vivid Fire Kitchen. We invite Sydneysiders and visitors from across the globe to join us and enjoy one of Sydney’s great strengths.”

Vivid Sydney Festival Director and Vivid Food curator Gill Minervini said:

“Vivid Food captures the essence of our shared humanity through the global language of food. It’s a celebration of how cuisine can mirror the diversity of cultures, while also being a bridge that connects us all. We’re thrilled to announce the incredible local and international culinary talent joining the Vivid Food program across Vivid Residence, Vivid Chef Series and Vivid Fire Kitchen, who will bring to life the rich tapestry of Sydney’s food scene. Our diverse range of Vivid Food events, from intimate dining experiences to communal feasts, promises to bring people together and showcase the unique and collective culinary heritage that makes our city so special.”

Stephanie Calape, Vice President of Culinary Events at IMG, which produces Vivid Residence, Vivid Chef Series and Vivid Fire Kitchen in collaboration with Vivid Sydney, said:

“Following the phenomenal popularity of last year’s inaugural Vivid Food experiences, which saw Vivid Residence sell out within 48 hours, we are excited to bring back another incredible, diverse array of experiences and chefs for 2024. From world-renowned Chef Manoella Buffara’s one-of-a-kind fine dining Vivid Residence experience at Sydney’s Ploós, to Vivid Chef Series’ unmissable mash-up of Sydney and the world’s most exciting chefs, and the star-studded, immersive Vivid Fire Kitchen festival, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”

Ploos Credit: Ploos

Ploos for Vivid Residence

#feelnewsydney

Manoella Buffara Credit: Manoella Buffara

Manoella Buffara for Vivid Residence

#feelnewsydney

Vivid Residence

Culinary artistry meets social responsibility at Vivid Residence as Latin America’s Best Female Chef 2022, Manoella Buffara of Manu Restaurant, Brazil, which was awarded the The Flor de Caña Sustainable Restaurant Award 2023, graces Peter Conistis’ waterfront venue, Ploós, right in the heart of the Vivid Sydney Light Walk. Renowned for putting Curitiba on the global culinary map, Buffara’s approach integrates local produce with a commitment to environmental and social sustainability. During her Vivid Sydney residency, Buffara will showcase her pioneering approach to fine dining for the first time in Australia, celebrating New South Wales’ produce alongside her team and Ploós's esteemed chefs.

Chef Manoella Buffara said: “I’m incredibly excited to be part of Vivid Food in Sydney, an event that highlights the importance of cuisine in our culture. As the culinary capital of Australia, Sydney becomes a hub for vibrant flavour exchanges, bringing together top chefs and local producers to create memorable food experiences. In the heart of this bustling city, I will launch a pop-up that showcases my love for high-quality ingredients and authentic flavours. Sharing my cooking and stories with Sydney is a true honour, and I look forward to being part of this amazing food event that Vivid Food offers.”

Buffara and the team will create two menus, with a nine-course tasting menu for dinner, and a seven-course tasting menu for lunch. Tickets for the nine-course dinner menu are $420 per person, with the shorter lunch tasting menu costing $320, with bespoke beverage pairings also available. Vivid Residence will run from 24 May to 2 June 2024 offering a unique dining experience in the middle of the Vivid Sydney Light Walk. Tickets go on sale Friday 19 April at vividsydney.com/food.

Vivid Chef Series

The Vivid Chef Series will take over Sydney’s food scene, with the city’s best hatted restaurants and chefs pairing with some of the world’s most exciting culinary talent to bring the global contemporary culinary scene to Sydney for a limited number of nights.

The series of exclusive dinners will see local and international talent collaborate to create a never-to-be repeated menu that celebrates the best NSW produce and suppliers, imbued with global culinary sophistication.

London chef Sally Abé, who will take over The Charles Brasserie & Bar as part of Vivid Chef Series, said: “As a passionate chef, I am thrilled to be a part of the Vivid Food series in Sydney. It is an incredible platform that celebrates the intersection of art, culture, and gastronomy, allowing me to showcase my culinary skills in a vibrant and innovative setting. I am excited to immerse myself in the diverse food scene of Sydney and collaborate with talented chefs from around the world, creating unforgettable culinary experiences.”

Chef collaborations include:

The Charles Brasserie & Bar x Sally Abé | Once comrades in arms on the other side of the globe whilst working at the three Michelin-starred restaurant The Ledbury in London, Sally Abé of The Pem will be reuniting with Billy Hannigan of Sydney’s hatted The Charles Brasserie & Bar, for three unmissable lunches and dinners. The menu will merge Hannigan’s European-inspired cooking style with Abe’s passion for nostalgic British cuisine. Joining them in the kitchen will be head pastry chef Rhiann Mead, who will add her signature sweet and innovative flair to the evening.
AALIA x Ivan Brehm | Ivan Brehm of Michelin-starred Singapore restaurant, Nouri and Paul Farag of AALIA (two hatted Sydney restaurant, previously named Gourmet Traveller’s NSW restaurant of the year, 2023) will collaborate on two exclusive dinners that celebrate global food traditions. The dinners will blend AALIA’s expertise in Middle Eastern cuisine with Nouri’s celebration of global food traditions, for a menu that honours diversity of cultures paying tribute to the richness of our collective culinary heritage.
Fred’s x Max Coen | Max Coen of London Michelin-starred Dorian and Ben Greeno of acclaimed Sydney restaurant, Fred’s will unite for four exclusive dinners that fuse their culinary philosophies. Chef Coen’s meticulous focus on ingredient-focussed wood-fired grilling will meet Greeno’s farm-to-table approach and hyper-seasonal cooking, for a menu that celebrates the beauty and artistry found in simplicity, all while utilising the best in local produce.

Tickets go on sale Friday 19 April at vividsydney.com/food.

The Charles Brasserie Credit: Steven Woodburn

The Charles Brasserie & Bar x Sally Abe, as part of the Vivid Chef Series in Vivid Food.

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Fred's x Max Coen Credit: Steven Woodburn

Fred's x Max Coen, as part of the Vivid Chef Series in Vivid Food.

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Vivid Fire Kitchen

Vivid Fire Kitchen will light up its new home of The Goods Line across 23 nights, with the world’s best pitmasters and BBQ heroes joining forces with acclaimed local flame-focused restaurants for a festival of accessible fire demos, cooking sessions and exclusive BBQ dishes, with drinks, DJs and entertainment ablaze with Fire Sculptures, Flame Shooters and fire drums. Using the best NSW produce, a line-up of acclaimed local and international chefs will serve up a selection of flame-seared street food from around the globe, from tandoor and Argentinian Asado, First Nations tucker, alongside hearty sausages, tender brisket, charred eggplant, and aromatic satay, offering a nightly multicultural feast.

Guests will enjoy demonstrations combining local produce and raw-fire cooking from chef and restaurateur Lennox Hastie of Sydney’s two-hatted Firedoor who returns for Vivid Food 2024; one of Australia’s most celebrated chefs and culinary ambassadors Christine Manfield; reigning Seafood Champion in the World Food Championships, John McFadden; chef, restaurateur, proud Bundjalung woman and owner of Karkalla restaurant, Mindy Woods; Michelin starred chef of Sweden’s Ekstedt at The Yard, Niklas Ekstedt; Texas-based live fire cook, author, TV personality Jess Pryles; Pitmaster of LA-based My Father’s Barbeque, Shalamar Lane and more.

Australian chef and restaurateur Lennox Hastie who will appear at Vivid Fire Kitchen, said: “For me, food is an integral part of my creative expression because it engages all my senses and allows me to connect with ingredients and people on a deeply personal level. Vivid Food celebrates the rich and diverse nature of our food culture of Australia, reminding us that food is not just about sustenance but a powerful form of connection supporting community, evoking emotions, and creating lasting memories.”

Alongside BBQ offerings and the blazing atmosphere on the Vivid Sydney Light Walk, Vivid Sydney audiences will also be able to enjoy dishes from a curated selection of Sydney’s hottest dining concepts at Vivid Fire Kitchen, from casual eateries to acclaimed restaurants, including Messina Milk Bar, a culinary time capsule that transforms beloved chocolate bars and classic sweets into modern gelato delights. A menu highlight: a warm Milo fudge sundae, specially developed to warm you up on cold winter nights.

Vivid Residence, Vivid Chef Series and Vivid Fire Kitchen events are produced by IMG in collaboration with Vivid Sydney. IMG is the global events company behind the likes of Gourmet Escape, Taste Festivals, The Big Feastival, New York Fashion Week: The Shows and Frieze art fairs.

Vivid Food is part of Vivid Sydney, the Southern Hemisphere’s leading multi-artform festival, which will run from 24 May to 15 June 2024. Tickets for Vivid Residence and Vivid Chef Series will go on sale Friday 19 April via https://www.vividsydney.com/food. Vivid Fire Kitchen events, taking place at The Goods Line in Ultimo, are free for all to attend. Food and drink can be purchased on site.

For more information and tickets, visit vividsydney.com

Niklas Ekstedt Credit: Niklas Ekstedt

Niklas Ekstedt for Vivid Fire Kitchen 2024

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Vivid Fire Kitchen 2024 Credit: Destination NSW

Vivid Fire Kitchen 2024 as part of Vivid Food.

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Media contacts:

Hannah Fedeli, +61437166571 or hannah.f@thecru.agency
Shannon Blanchard, +61432543377 or shannon@thecru.agency
James Toovey, Vivid Sydney PR Manager, +61407828310 or james.toovey@dnsw.com.au

About Vivid Sydney

Vivid Sydney is the Southern Hemisphere’s leading multi-artform festival, celebrating creativity, innovation and technology, and transforming Sydney into a kaleidoscope of colour and events for 23 nights. Staged for its 14th year in 2024, Vivid Sydney will bring together mesmerising displays from the world’s brightest light artists, exhilarating live music performances, deep-dive discussions with thought leaders, and innovative experiences from food creatives. Vivid Sydney attracts domestic and international visitors, fuelling economic growth while fostering a cultural celebration across Light, Music, Ideas and Food. Vivid Sydney is owned, managed and produced by Destination NSW, the NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency. For more information and tickets, visit vividsydney.com

About Destination NSW

Destination NSW is the champion and voice for the visitor economy within the NSW Government. Spearheading a whole-of-government approach to visitor economy growth, Destination NSW influences and shapes the visitor economy through strategic research, policy and thought leadership, stakeholder engagement and consultation, commercial partnerships and investment in visitor experiences, business support, marketing and events. Destination NSW is also the major investor in Business Events Sydney (BESydney) for the purpose of securing more international and domestic conventions, incentive travel reward programs, corporate events and exhibitions.

About IMG

IMG is a global sports, events and representation company. It is a leader in rights management, multi-channel content production and distribution, consultancy and fan engagement; owns, produces and commercially represents hundreds of live events and experiences; and manages licensing programs for the world’s best-known brands and trademarks. IMG is a subsidiary of Endeavor, a global sports and entertainment company.

What's new in NSW - May 2023

Bowery Kitchen and Bar Credit: Bowery Kitchen and Bar