HOT: Masterpieces from the Hermitage: The Legacy of Catherine the Great, NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

Posted on July 30, 2015 by Jetsetting Joyce

NGV Hermitage11 735x1024 HOT: Masterpieces from the Hermitage: The Legacy of Catherine the Great, NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

Melbourne Winter Masterpieces have been bringing some fantastic international exhibitions to brighten Melbourne’s winters since 2004. This year the National Gallery of Victoria is hosting Masterpieces from the Hermitage: The Legacy of Catherine the Great, which features over 400 selected pieces from the collection of one of the world’s largest, oldest and most-visited museums in the world, the State Hermitage Museum in St Petersburg.

NGV Hermitage01 1024x680 HOT: Masterpieces from the Hermitage: The Legacy of Catherine the Great, NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

NGV Hermitage10 1024x690 HOT: Masterpieces from the Hermitage: The Legacy of Catherine the Great, NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

This exhibition has been described as the greatest exhibition the Hermitage has undertaken abroad and it is part of their 250 anniversary celebrations. I got a sneak peek today at the media preview. Melbourne, you’re in for a treat!

NGV Hermitage19 1024x680 HOT: Masterpieces from the Hermitage: The Legacy of Catherine the Great, NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

The works on show at the NGV include paintings from masters such as Velasquez, Rembrandt, Rubens, Titian and Van Dyk to drawings, decorative arts, Catherine’s personal effects and paintings from the prized Walpole collection, all bought and collected by Catherine over 3 decades as a patron and innovator of the arts in the 18th century.

NGV Hermitage13 1024x611 HOT: Masterpieces from the Hermitage: The Legacy of Catherine the Great, NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

It was through the collection of these works and Catherine the Great’s exceptional vision that the Hermitage was founded.

NGV Hermitage18 1024x736 HOT: Masterpieces from the Hermitage: The Legacy of Catherine the Great, NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

While the big names will no doubt be the drawcards, my favourite moments in the whole exhibition included…

NGV Hermitage17 848x1024 HOT: Masterpieces from the Hermitage: The Legacy of Catherine the Great, NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

Francesco Francia’s drawing of Sacrifice with Bacchus, with its lush textures and detail achieved with only brown ink and a pen….

NGV Hermitage14 1024x661 HOT: Masterpieces from the Hermitage: The Legacy of Catherine the Great, NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

NGV Hermitage12 1024x680 HOT: Masterpieces from the Hermitage: The Legacy of Catherine the Great, NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

…the intense blue of the Sevres porcelain in the Cameo Service commissioned by Catherine and…

NGV Hermitage1 1024x1018 HOT: Masterpieces from the Hermitage: The Legacy of Catherine the Great, NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

…the detail in the mirror of the thirty-two piece Chinese toilet service which was a wedding gift to Catherine.

NGV Hermitage09 1024x672 HOT: Masterpieces from the Hermitage: The Legacy of Catherine the Great, NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

The exhibition design is also notable, with lush hues, architectural details and antique furniture inspired by the grandeur of the Hermitage’s rooms.

NGV Hermitage16 1024x746 HOT: Masterpieces from the Hermitage: The Legacy of Catherine the Great, NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

I particularly loved the parquetry flooring and the Chinese wallpaper, which covered even the electrical switches!

NGV Hermitage04 1024x679 HOT: Masterpieces from the Hermitage: The Legacy of Catherine the Great, NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

NGV Hermitage05 626x1024 HOT: Masterpieces from the Hermitage: The Legacy of Catherine the Great, NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

Make time to watch the immersive video that transports you to wintery Russia and takes you inside the through the gallery.

NGV Hermitage15 1024x724 HOT: Masterpieces from the Hermitage: The Legacy of Catherine the Great, NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

The exhibition is not just about admiring excellent pieces of Western Art. Mikhail Dedinkin, the Deputy Head of the Department of Western European Art at the State Hermitage Museum, described it best ‘The Hermitage helps people find their own history and contains some of the greatest examples of the genius of mankind. The collection spans all centuries, all countries and all countries under one roof.’

Masterpieces from the Hermitage: The Legacy of Catherine the Great is an opportunity to see but a part of the Hermitage’s grand collection right on our doorstep. Don’t miss it!

Masterpieces from the Hermitage: The Legacy of Catherine the Great, NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

Friday 31 July – Sunday 8 November 2015 10am-5pm

Tickets on sale from ngv.vic.gov.au

Adult $26 | Concession $22.50 | Child $10 |

Family (2 adults, 3 children) $65

HOT: Din Tai Fung, Emporium Melbourne, Level 4, 287 Lonsdale St, Melbourne

Posted on June 16, 2015 by Jetsetting Joyce

Din Tai Fung Emporium Melbourne Level 4 287 Lonsdale St Melbourne 10 HOT: Din Tai Fung, Emporium Melbourne, Level 4, 287 Lonsdale St, Melbourne

Melbourne dumpling-lovers, start your engines. Din Tai Fung Melbourne has arrived.

This famous, and long-awaited, restaurant chain has taken up the whole of level 4 inside Emporium Melbourne. You can’t miss the entrance as there will be crowd of hungry people outside.

Inside the decor is a surprising combination of Scandi-chic with an Asian sensibility designed by Design Clarity.

Din Tai Fung Emporium Melbourne Level 4 287 Lonsdale St Melbourne 7 HOT: Din Tai Fung, Emporium Melbourne, Level 4, 287 Lonsdale St, Melbourne

It’s not often you spot filament lights in Asian restaurants and they combine together with other ‘hipster-cafe’ features such as an abundance of blonde wood, a long retro blue banquette, curved lines and wall-hanging greenery.

Din Tai Fung Emporium Melbourne Level 4 287 Lonsdale St Melbourne 8 HOT: Din Tai Fung, Emporium Melbourne, Level 4, 287 Lonsdale St, Melbourne

Particularly Asian elements still creep in though – waiters wield bag stands to protect your handbags and shopping and coat covers for the back of your chair.

Din Tai Fung Emporium Melbourne Level 4 287 Lonsdale St Melbourne 6 HOT: Din Tai Fung, Emporium Melbourne, Level 4, 287 Lonsdale St, Melbourne

You order by ticking off a paper menu with over a hundred items. Daunted, I call my (Chinese) mother to provide ordering advice (though there is a picture menu available to assist). She says ‘every visit to Din Tai Fung would not be complete without their famous xiao long bao’.

Din Tai Fung Emporium Melbourne Level 4 287 Lonsdale St Melbourne 1 HOT: Din Tai Fung, Emporium Melbourne, Level 4, 287 Lonsdale St, Melbourne

These darling 18-times pleated soup dumplings (6 for $10.80) are made by an army of mask-clad chefs in the large kitchen and then carried in a sky-high tower of bamboo steamers to be distributed to expectant folk.

Din Tai Fung Emporium Melbourne Level 4 287 Lonsdale St Melbourne 2 HOT: Din Tai Fung, Emporium Melbourne, Level 4, 287 Lonsdale St, Melbourne

Din Tai Fung’s XLB are superb. The weight of the piping hot broth, the thin pouch of dumpling skin, the the perfect balance of texture and flavour, all go towards making these some of the best xiao long bao you’ll find anywhere in the world. What’s amazing is the consistency of the product – I’ve had Din Tai Fung’s XLB in Sydney, Hong Kong and Shanghai and each time they send me into a food orgasm.

Din Tai Fung Emporium Melbourne Level 4 287 Lonsdale St Melbourne 3 HOT: Din Tai Fung, Emporium Melbourne, Level 4, 287 Lonsdale St, Melbourne

Din Tai Fung are also famous for their noodles, and my mum suggested trying the braised beef noodle soup ($16.80). It’s a steaming bowl consisting of a fat wad of handmade noodles sitting underneath four slices of beef shank in a flavoursome broth. The pliable noodles are a highlight though the beef could be more tender.

Din Tai Fung Emporium Melbourne Level 4 287 Lonsdale St Melbourne 4 HOT: Din Tai Fung, Emporium Melbourne, Level 4, 287 Lonsdale St, Melbourne

Finally, I try one of their steamed buns ($3). The vegetarian bun comes so beautifully pleated I don’t want to touch it. I take a bite and discover the fluffiest of pillows with a loose mixture of shredded vegetables and mushrooms nestled inside.

Din Tai Fung Emporium Melbourne Level 4 287 Lonsdale St Melbourne 5 HOT: Din Tai Fung, Emporium Melbourne, Level 4, 287 Lonsdale St, Melbourne

Din Tai Fung may be a global restaurant chain but it’s one that’s of consistently high quality and reasonably priced. It’s an exciting addition to Chinese dining in Melbourne and it was telling that on my visit 95% of the patrons were Asian, young and old. It’s safe to say they know a good dumpling when they eat it (and are willing to line up for it).

My final tip is to arrive 5-10 minutes before opening time. The kitchen is quick but each table still takes around 45 minutes to turn around. So if you miss the first tranche of the 230-odd seats you’ll have to hang around salivating over your paper menu until there’s room.

Din Tai Fung, Emporium Melbourne, Level 4, 287 Lonsdale St, Melbourne 9654 1876

Mon-Wed 11.30-2.30pm, 5.30-9pm

Thu-Fri 11.30-2.30pm, 5-10pm

Sat 11-3pm, 5-10pm

Sun 11-3pm, 5-9pm

HOT: Touche Hombre, 233 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne

Posted on June 5, 2015 by Jetsetting Joyce

Touche Hombre 233 Lonsdale Street Melbourne 6 HOT: Touche Hombre, 233 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne

In a city that’s chock full of Mexican restaurants, what makes Touche Hombre special?

For me, it’s the fun atmosphere, punchy flavours and super-quick service right in the heart of the city. I call it ‘Wham Bam Thank You Ma’am Mexican’.

Touche Hombre 233 Lonsdale Street Melbourne 4 HOT: Touche Hombre, 233 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne

The interior is all laneway brashness, with exposed brick, concrete, bar stools and kitschy touches. The hip hop playlist was from my era!

Touche Hombre 233 Lonsdale Street Melbourne 9 HOT: Touche Hombre, 233 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne

I was invited to try their new menu which launched earlier this month in time for their third birthday. It’s pretty much the same Mexican-for-gringos street food that you know and love and it all goes well with their Mexican cocktails. The zesty Tommy’s Margarita is their signature but I personally liked their icy horchata.

I think the best way to tackle the menu is just to go with the chef’s selection. For a very reasonable $40 you’ll be filled up with 1 Street Corn, 1 Starter, 3 Tacos and 1 Dessert.

Dive straight into the Touche fried chicken, spiced up with habanero cream and lime ($10/$25). The crunchy outer coating made with maize flour was a popcorn party in the mouth though I’d be sparing with the cream and generous with the lime to cut through the richness.

Touche Hombre 233 Lonsdale Street Melbourne 2 HOT: Touche Hombre, 233 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne

The spicy lamb ribs with merquin, coriander and honey ($13) were tender but far too fatty for our tastes so it was our least successful dish on the night.

Touche Hombre 233 Lonsdale Street Melbourne 1 HOT: Touche Hombre, 233 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne

Our plate of tostaditos (or crisp mini tortillas) had one of everything – blue crab, chicken tinga, tuna and pumpkin. The Asian-inspired tuna with candied peanuts, soy and black sesame was my favourite though of course the least authentic.

Touche Hombre 233 Lonsdale Street Melbourne 3 HOT: Touche Hombre, 233 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne

Next up, 6” soft shell tacos. I highly recommend you douse them in hot sauce if you need a kick as I found the flavours of both the slow cooked pork cheek, habanero cream and BBQ corn salsa ($6.50) and the Chimichurri Chicken with melted Egmont cheese, toasted pepitas and coriander aioli ($6) quite mild. Other taco fillings include prawn, haloumi, fish and meatballs and the fillings are replicated in the burritos selection as well.

Touche Hombre 233 Lonsdale Street Melbourne 5 HOT: Touche Hombre, 233 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne

Dessert veers away from Latin flavours to ice cream sandwiches and doughnuts. We tried the chocolate, chilli and peanut butter parfait ($8) which had negligible chilli in it, so I say turn it up! The biscuit was also rock hard so the whole dish was a bit difficult to eat.

Touche Hombre has obviously carved out a niche in Melbourne’s Mexican wave as it was jumping on a Tuesday night. The dishes we tried veered from OMG amazing to ho hum in my nitpicking opinion, but add a few drinks and the rapid friendly service it’s a great way to kickstart a fun night out – you can even head right next door to Burro Teca (Donkey Disco, I kid you not)!

Touche Hombre 233 Lonsdale Street Melbourne 8 HOT: Touche Hombre, 233 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne

Touche Hombre, 233 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne

Mon to Sat 12:00 pm – late

HOT: Open House: Tromarama for Kids, NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

Posted on May 24, 2015 by Jetsetting Joyce

Open House Tromarama for Kids NGV International 180 St Kilda Rd Melbourne 17 HOT: Open House: Tromarama for Kids, NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

Open House: Tromarama for Kids is NGV International’s newest children’s gallery exhibition which isn’t just child’s play. Indonesian contemporary art collective Tromarama (Febie Babyrose, Herbert Hans and Ruddy Hatumena), have truly built a house of fun for young and old alike!

Open House Tromarama for Kids NGV International 180 St Kilda Rd Melbourne 9 HOT: Open House: Tromarama for Kids, NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

The fantastical space features five fully furnished rooms – a kitchen, dining room, courtyard, bedroom and bathroom. The whole house comes to life and there are lots of unexpected surprises to explore.

Open House Tromarama for Kids NGV International 180 St Kilda Rd Melbourne 5 HOT: Open House: Tromarama for Kids, NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

Open House Tromarama for Kids NGV International 180 St Kilda Rd Melbourne 7 HOT: Open House: Tromarama for Kids, NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

Start off in the bathroom and very comfy pillow-lined bedroom, where you can learn to make simple stop motion animation movies.

Open House Tromarama for Kids NGV International 180 St Kilda Rd Melbourne 4 HOT: Open House: Tromarama for Kids, NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

Just take some toys from the bathtub, find a backdrop you like, use the touch screens to take photos and off you go!

Open House Tromarama for Kids NGV International 180 St Kilda Rd Melbourne 6 HOT: Open House: Tromarama for Kids, NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

Move into the lush garden with the flower wall which reminded me of the . Pity the flowers aren’t real!

Open House Tromarama for Kids NGV International 180 St Kilda Rd Melbourne 10 HOT: Open House: Tromarama for Kids, NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

In the garden you’ll find that pink flamingos talk and cheeky garden gnomes chat back with your voice!

Open House Tromarama for Kids NGV International 180 St Kilda Rd Melbourne 11 HOT: Open House: Tromarama for Kids, NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

The kitchen is the most restful space, with stacks of ceramic crockery (thankfully stuck together and to the benches) and it shows a delightful animation of dancing plates and cups.

Open House Tromarama for Kids NGV International 180 St Kilda Rd Melbourne 2 HOT: Open House: Tromarama for Kids, NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

The highlight of the interactive experiences has got to be the disco dance floor. Look up and you’ll see a complete dining room setting, which means you’re dancing on the ceiling!

Open House Tromarama for Kids NGV International 180 St Kilda Rd Melbourne 12 HOT: Open House: Tromarama for Kids, NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

Like Darren Sylvester’s dance floor for the Melbourne Now exhibition this room will definitely be a drawcard.

Open House Tromarama for Kids NGV International 180 St Kilda Rd Melbourne 13 HOT: Open House: Tromarama for Kids, NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

Open House: Tromarama for Kids is a must-see on your next to visit the gallery and it will be sure to delight and surprise kids and adults alike. Come out and play!

Open House: Tromarama for Kids, NGV International, 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne

Saturday 23 May – Sunday 18 Oct

Open 10am–5pm

Closed Tuesday

Free entry

The HOT List: Afternoon Tea in Melbourne – Mother’s Day Sunday 10 May 2015

Posted on April 24, 2015 by Jetsetting Joyce

Sunday 10 May is Mother’s Day and Melbourne’s restaurants and cafes will be busy organising special events for the day. Here’s a round-up of high teas in Melbourne and surrounds, some of which are special events just for Mother’s Day.

Melbourne High Tea Reviews

Over the years I’ve reviewed a lot of afternoon tea locations – some great, some not so great. Here are the ones which are open for Mother’s Day.

DSC04960v1 The HOT List: Afternoon Tea in Melbourne Mothers Day Sunday 10 May 2015

Langham Melbourne – one of my favourites in Melbourne for the quality of the food and the ambience. The closest to the ‘London afternoon tea’ experience I think, minus the all-you-can-eat ribbon sandwiches!

Intercontinental – For coffee lovers rather than tea sippers.

Cinema Nova – watch a film and enjoy high tea.

Jam and Cream – this little cafe with a pink vintage caravan is as cute as it comes as a setting for afternoon tea.

LuxBite Tea Set for Two 38 Toorak Rd South Yarra 7 The HOT List: Afternoon Tea in Melbourne Mothers Day Sunday 10 May 2015

LuxBite – The Tea Set for Two gives you a little taste of the decadence available at this South Yarra dessert patisserie.

Bursaria at Abbotsford Convent – High Tea in the lovely surrounds of Abbotsford Convent.

The Tea Salon – Do some shopping at Emporium then relax with a high tea accompanied by tea, sparkling or champagne.

The Hotel Windsor – Enjoy this iconic building by indulging in freshly baked scones are served with jam and cream and exquisite pastries sit above delicate finger sandwiches.

DSC02865 The HOT List: Afternoon Tea in Melbourne Mothers Day Sunday 10 May 2015

Westin Melbourne – a highlight for the pastry lover.

The Waiting Room – decadent sweets, sorbet, scones, sandwiches and hot savouries at Crown Towers.

Collins Kitchen at Grand Hyatt Melbourne – sub-par pastries and a bun-fight at the buffet. Not relaxing.

Sofitel Melbourne – pretty average with rock hard scones.

Other High Tea in Melbourne and surrounds

CBD/ DOCKLANDS

Marriot Melbourne Hotel Cnr Exhibition and Lonsdale St, Melbourne. Child (under 12yrs): $28, Teen (12-18yrs): $49, Adult: $65. Bookings: Book online or call

28 Skybar Lounge at Crown Melbourne $85 per adult $50 per child. Bookings 9292 5777.

Hopetoun Tea Rooms 282 Collins St, Melbourne. $50. Bookings: www.hopetountearooms.com.au/reservations 48 hours notice required.

Wonderland Spiegeltent 120 Pearl River Rd, Harbour Town Docklands. Cost: Child $35, Adults $39.50. Bookings: Telephone

Vue de Monde 525 Collins St, Melbourne. $250 person. Bookings: 8

Hotel Lindrum. 26 Flinders St Melbourne. $55 per person including a glass of sparkling wine. Bookings: .

Om Nom at Adelphi Hotel 187 Flinders Lane Melbourne. $65 per person. Bookings:

Stamford Plaza Hotel 111 Little Collins Street. Cost: $69 per adult $34.50 per child 4-12 years. Bookings: +61-

Myer Mural Hall Lvl 6, 314-336 Bourke Street. Cost: $70 per person, children under 3 free. Bookings: +61

15/123 Queen Street. $50 per person. Bookings .

Afternoon tea at The Hotel Windsor 111 Spring St Melbourne 1 The HOT List: Afternoon Tea in Melbourne Mothers Day Sunday 10 May 2015

NORTH

Mamor’s Chocolate 153 Johnston St, Collingwood. $75 per person.

Melbourne Zoo Elliot Ave Parkville $65 adults $30 children. Bookings .

EAST

Beau Monde International 934 Doncaster Road, Doncaster East. Child (4-12yrs): $35, Adult: $70. Bookings:

Mossgreen Tea Rooms 926 High St Armadale. $52 per person or $68 with champagne. Bookings: Call or email

SOUTH / SOUTH-EAST / BAYSIDE

The Vincent 111 Victoria Ave, Albert Park. Child: $25, Adult: $65. Bookings: Call or click here to reserve your table.

Ganache Chocolate 250 Toorak Rd, South Yarra. $45 per head or $60 per head with a glass of sparkling. Bookings: Call 9804 7485

WEST

Cocktails and Canvas Puckle Lane, Moonee Ponds. $82.50 high tea ‘Sip & Paint’.

MELBOURNE SURROUNDS

Chateau Yering Historic House Hotel 42 Melba Highway, Yering. $60 per person. Bookings: Call or email

Marybrooke Manor 10 Sherbrooke Rd, Sherbrooke. Adults: $40 Children $17.50. Bookings: Call

High Tea at Yarra Valley Lodge 2 Heritage Avenue, Chirnside Park. Cost: $45 per adult and $27.50 per child (3-12 years). Bookings: Call 9760 3355 or email

Coombe Restaurant 673-675 Maroondah Highway Coldstream. $55 per person. Bookings

The Greatest Love Of All – The Whitney Houston Show – Giveaway!

Posted on April 10, 2015 by Jetsetting Joyce

PHOTO Whitney Blue Dress Hand Up Email 1024x683 The Greatest Love Of All – The Whitney Houston Show Giveaway!

The Greatest Love Of All – The Whitney Houston Show celebrates the iconic pop singer Whitney Houston and her most loved songs. The show is coming to Melbourne in May 2015 with the breathtaking voice of South African singer Belinda Davids after selling out in Dubai, New Zealand, Canada, the US and South Africa.

PHOTO Whitney Belinda Singing Email 1024x683 The Greatest Love Of All – The Whitney Houston Show Giveaway!

The 2 ½ hour concert and stage show spans Houston’s 29 year career and includes hits How Will I Know, I Wanna Dance With Somebody, Where Do Broken Hearts Go, Didn’t We Almost Have It All, I’m Every Woman, Exhale (Shoop Shoop), Step by Step and I Will Always Love You.

Watch this to hear the amazing Belinda Davids – she has a 4 octave range!

The Greatest Love Of All – The Whitney Houston Show, Athenaeum Theatre, 188 Collins St, Melbourne

Friday 15 May to Saturday 23 May 2015

Tickets from $49.90 from Ticketek 132 849

Giveaway! Thanks to The Greatest Love Of All – The Whitney Houston Show I have 2 x double passes to give away for the opening night Friday 15 May.

To win just follow the instructions below. The competition closes midnight Monday 20 April and the two random winners will be contacted by email. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

HOT: Shifting Gear: Design, Innovation and the Australian Car, NGV Australia, Federation Square

Posted on March 4, 2015 by Jetsetting Joyce

Shifting Gear Design Innovation and the Australian Car NGV Australia Federation Square 5 HOT: Shifting Gear: Design, Innovation and the Australian Car, NGV Australia, Federation Square

Shifting Gear Design Innovation and the Australian Car NGV Australia Federation Square 2 HOT: Shifting Gear: Design, Innovation and the Australian Car, NGV Australia, Federation Square

NGV Australia’s newest temporary exhibition is a first for an Australian art institution – a look at Australia’s history of car design and engineering called ‘’.

The exhibition is particularly well-timed given the 2015 Formula 1 Grand Prix starts on Thursday 12 March and the fact that Australia’s automobile industry is frankly, going down the tube. Now is the time to capture the stories, archives and history of the heyday of the Australian car industry and provide some scholarly analysis and discussion on Australia’s contribution to global knowledge and design.

Shifting Gear Design Innovation and the Australian Car NGV Australia Federation Square 6 HOT: Shifting Gear: Design, Innovation and the Australian Car, NGV Australia, Federation Square

If, like me, you’re not really into cars (bikes are more my thing) then ‘’ is still an interesting visit. I was invited to a special preview of the exhibition along with the launch of NGV’s new contemporary design and architecture strategy and programs.

Shifting Gear Design Innovation and the Australian Car NGV Australia Federation Square 9 HOT: Shifting Gear: Design, Innovation and the Australian Car, NGV Australia, Federation Square

The twenty-three cars on show in the gallery foyer and the ticketed exhibition range from vehicles from the 19th century through to now. They have all been shined to a mirror buff, raised onto pedestals and exhibited as objects of sophisticated art and design.

Shifting Gear Design Innovation and the Australian Car NGV Australia Federation Square 10 HOT: Shifting Gear: Design, Innovation and the Australian Car, NGV Australia, Federation Square

Shifting Gear Design Innovation and the Australian Car NGV Australia Federation Square 15 HOT: Shifting Gear: Design, Innovation and the Australian Car, NGV Australia, Federation Square

The gallery design is extremely effective and I loved how the bold colour palettes greatly enhanced the presentation of the cars. Even if you read none of the information it’s a visually stunning space and very photogenic.

Shifting Gear Design Innovation and the Australian Car NGV Australia Federation Square 14 HOT: Shifting Gear: Design, Innovation and the Australian Car, NGV Australia, Federation Square

Shifting Gear Design Innovation and the Australian Car NGV Australia Federation Square 4 HOT: Shifting Gear: Design, Innovation and the Australian Car, NGV Australia, Federation Square

is one of the branches of NGV’s long-term strategy to become a leading hub for contemporary art, design and architecture. Just this year Nordic Cool – Modernist Design has opened, a new curatorial department has been created, the two gallery shops have been relaunched as a design-focused retailer NGV design store and a new collection area is being created for design and architecture.

In April Coco Flip will enliven the Great Hall with Puku Ottomans and in September an ongoing Commission for Ephemeral Architecture will launch with a stunning sweeping work by John Wardle Architects ‘I Dips Me Lid’.

In 2016 a Design Project Space will open presenting a year round program of exhibitions and in 2017 the NGV Triennial will launch.

It’s going to be an exciting period for the National Gallery of Victoria!

, NGV Australia, Federation Square

Friday 6 March – Sunday 12 July 2015

Open 10am—5pm daily Closed Mondays

Adults $15, Concession $12, Child $7, Family $41 Book here.

HOT: The Artisan Bakery & Bar, Melbourne Food and Wine Festival 2015, Queensbridge Square, Southbank

Posted on March 2, 2015 by Jetsetting Joyce

The Artisan Bakery Bar Melbourne Food and Wine Festival 2015 Queensbridge Square Southbank 1 HOT: The Artisan Bakery & Bar, Melbourne Food and Wine Festival 2015, Queensbridge Square, Southbank

The Melbourne Food and Wine Festival (Saturday 28 February – Sunday 15 March) is kind of like my idealised version of Christmas (lots of eating without the present traumas) which makes the Artisan Bakery & Bar the ultimate Christmas Village, a place to celebrate some festival cheer.

The Artisan Bakery Bar Melbourne Food and Wine Festival 2015 Queensbridge Square Southbank 3 HOT: The Artisan Bakery & Bar, Melbourne Food and Wine Festival 2015, Queensbridge Square, Southbank

The Artisan Bakery Bar Melbourne Food and Wine Festival 2015 Queensbridge Square Southbank 6 HOT: The Artisan Bakery & Bar, Melbourne Food and Wine Festival 2015, Queensbridge Square, Southbank

Every day until Sunday 15 March, from 7:30am to late, head down to Queensbridge Square on Southbank to sample delicious bread-based wares from Peter Rowland as well as a rotating calendar of local and international bakers producing their most famous baked goods, including Éric Kayser (Maison Kayser, Paris) and Justin Gellatly (co-founder of London’s Bread Ahead).

DSC09924 521x820 HOT: The Artisan Bakery & Bar, Melbourne Food and Wine Festival 2015, Queensbridge Square, Southbank

I ‘accidentally’ inhaled one of Justin Gellatly ‘s famous doughnuts for breakfast and oh my god…I have to say it was one of the best doughnuts I’ve ever had. Spongy, fluffy and dripping with salted caramel cream with a shard of crumbling honeycomb on top.

DSC09926 820x545 HOT: The Artisan Bakery & Bar, Melbourne Food and Wine Festival 2015, Queensbridge Square, Southbank

Apparently guest baker’s products have been selling out every day by 10am so I’ve diarised Éric Kayser‘s visit (Tuesday 10 March and Wednesday 11 March) in the hope that he’ll turn out some of his famous eclairs.

I was also invited by Peter Rowland sample some of Artisan Bakery & Bar’s mostly Victorian menu.

We started off with little pots of Irrewarra Sourdough’s granola, some fluffy and tart Victorian yoghurt and homemade fresh fruit compote.

The Artisan Bakery Bar Melbourne Food and Wine Festival 2015 Queensbridge Square Southbank 9 HOT: The Artisan Bakery & Bar, Melbourne Food and Wine Festival 2015, Queensbridge Square, Southbank

Then the carb-loading began, with wooden boards containing a selection of Irrewarra Sourdough and Woodfrog Bakery’s bread, Mount Zero olives, Milawa cheese, Mytleford butter and picles and condiments by Peter Rowland ($20 each).

The Artisan Bakery Bar Melbourne Food and Wine Festival 2015 Queensbridge Square Southbank 8 HOT: The Artisan Bakery & Bar, Melbourne Food and Wine Festival 2015, Queensbridge Square, Southbank

Then a selection of tartines ($14) – basically fancy open-toasted. Nothing better than melted cheese on bread! Our selection included double smoked leg ham, heirloom tomatoes, pickled red onions and chutney…

…sauteed mushrooms and onion jam…

….pulled beef, corn relish and pickled gherkins.

The Artisan Bakery Bar Melbourne Food and Wine Festival 2015 Queensbridge Square Southbank 10 HOT: The Artisan Bakery & Bar, Melbourne Food and Wine Festival 2015, Queensbridge Square, Southbank

To end was Tivoli Road Bakery’s out of this world fruit loaf – a light fruit-studded bread almost akin to Christmas cake – plus a selection of Milawa cheeses plus Tivoli Road’s famous salted caramel and lemon curd doughnuts.

The Artisan Bakery & Bar is not just a place to eat and imbibe – there are workshop classes running onsite too, including free Little Foodies baking classes for children. Spaces for adult and kids classes are limited and bookings essential.

DSC09946 820x546 HOT: The Artisan Bakery & Bar, Melbourne Food and Wine Festival 2015, Queensbridge Square, Southbank

The Artisan Bakery & Bar, Melbourne Food and Wine Festival 2015, Queensbridge Square, Southbank

7 days a week 7:30am-late until Sunday 15 March

HOT: Grand Trailer Park Taverna Level 2, 87 Bourke St, Melbourne

Posted on February 18, 2015 by Jetsetting Joyce

Grand Trailer Park Taverna Level 2 87 Bourke St Melbourne 7 HOT: Grand Trailer Park Taverna Level 2, 87 Bourke St, Melbourne

Nestled between a Nandos and 7-11 on Bourke Street is a stairway to a heavenly waterfall. Goodbye Happy Palace, Hello Grand Trailer Park Taverna!

Grand Trailer Park Taverna Level 2 87 Bourke St Melbourne 2 HOT: Grand Trailer Park Taverna Level 2, 87 Bourke St, Melbourne

I have no idea how they got trailers up those narrow stairs but now you can sit inside a colourful cut out Airstream and eat fancy burgers and alcohol-spiked milkshakes.

Grand Trailer Park Taverna Level 2 87 Bourke St Melbourne 5 HOT: Grand Trailer Park Taverna Level 2, 87 Bourke St, Melbourne

Sounds like fun? It is!

I was invited to try out their menu and the kitschy trailer park was super busy on a weeknight with people of every type, from after-work suits to artsy students. On a sunny day check out the outdoor area overlooking prime real estate on Bourke and Exhibition Streets.

Tables contain all the necessary equipment for tackling one of their nine burgers, including wet wipes. It’s hard to choose but if you’re stuck (and hungry) go for the McDowell ($15.50), their version of the Big Mac, which was named one of Epicure’s Best New Burgers.

Grand Trailer Park Taverna Level 2 87 Bourke St Melbourne 1 HOT: Grand Trailer Park Taverna Level 2, 87 Bourke St, Melbourne

As I like my burgers HOT I choose the Atomic – premium Aussie beef pattie, American cheddar cheese, chili cheese kransky, crispy bacon, BBQ sauce and truffle cayenne mayonnaise on a lightly toasted brioche bun ($16.50). It’s an imposing tower of protein but oh so bad-it’s-good, with the melding of juicy beef, squeaky cheese and fatty, crispy bacon.

Their classic cheeseburger is dubbed CB1 ($7.50) and is actually just as satisfying as the Atomic at half the price (and presumably calories given its relative size).

To thoroughly throw the health kick out the window I pair the burger with a small serve of fries (too salty) and a potato, mac and cheese croquette (bit bland). Personally I don’t think the burgers need any starchy sides for your stomach to feel satisfied.

I wash everything down with a spiked milkshake containing a glug of Marker’s Mark Bourbon and salted caramel syrup ($17). It’s creamy and sweet and you can definitely taste the bourbon. You will laugh aloud when you see the maple bacon garnish!

Grand Trailer Park Taverna Level 2 87 Bourke St Melbourne 8 HOT: Grand Trailer Park Taverna Level 2, 87 Bourke St, Melbourne

If you don’t fancy a milkshake then the booze list includes classic American cocktails, local lager or wine.

For dessert I made the mistake of ordering the Kinder Surprise milkshake ($21) AND a serve of waffles with Nutella parfait, whipped cream, strawberries and Nutella sauce ($9).

Grand Trailer Park Taverna Level 2 87 Bourke St Melbourne 9 HOT: Grand Trailer Park Taverna Level 2, 87 Bourke St, Melbourne

A milkshake is easily a dessert in its itself as a tall glass probably contains around 250ml of milk. Add to that some icecream, chocolate, Frangelico and Baileys and it’s a chocolate milkshake, only tipsy!

Grand Trailer Park Taverna Level 2 87 Bourke St Melbourne 4 HOT: Grand Trailer Park Taverna Level 2, 87 Bourke St, Melbourne

The waffle stack is essentially a dessert burger and while it was indulgent and naughty if your stomach only has room for one burger then go with an actual meat (or mushroom) option. The waffles were a bit stodgy for me and not so amazing that you need to leave room to try them.

Grand Trailer Park Taverna is a fun and boisterous place to indulge in some serious artery-clogging eating. Stick with the burgers and spiked milkshakes and I guarantee you’ll have a good time!

Grand Trailer Park Taverna, Level 2, 87 Bourke St, Melbourne

Tuesday to Saturday 11.30am until late

The HOT List: Where to celebrate Chinese New Year 2015 in Melbourne

Posted on January 30, 2015 by Jetsetting Joyce

This year the Lunar New Year is Thursday 19 February 2015 and it will be celebrating the Year of the Goat (or Sheep).

Even if you’re not of Asian descent it’s a great time in Melbourne for festivities and yummy food!

Here’s a list of free Chinese New Year events in Melbourne in date order:

Victoria Street Lunar Festival Richmond – Sun 1 Feb, 11am-10pm. While technically the Vietnamese celebrate Tet there’s a large enough Chinese-Vietnamese population for Victoria Street Richmond to hold a CNY celebration. It’s very popular and gets a bit crowded but the street is closed off for food stalls and performances.
East Meets West Lunar Festival Footscray – Sun 8 Feb, 10am-10pm Hopkins St Footscray. This is the celebration we’ll be attending as it’s in our neighbourhood! Food stalls, games and rides will fill the street.
Crown’s Riverwalk Hawker’s Bazaar – Fri 13 Feb – Sun 22 Feb 11am-11pm Outside Crown Complex, Southbank. Chinese street food and entertainment by the Yarra. Some Crown restaurants will also have special CNY menus.
Box Hill Street Festival – Sat 14 Feb, 1pm-1am Market St & Main St, Box Hill. Box Hill is another Asian enclave in Melbourne and they’ll be celebrating CNY with cultural performances, game, amusement rides and food.
Springvale Lunar New Year Festival – Sun 15 Feb, 9am-9pm Buckingham Ave, Springvale. Springvale has a large Vietnamese/Chinese population and this CNY festival coincides with Australia Day, so two holidays in one! See martial arts displays, lion dances, folk dancing and of course lots of Asian food stalls.
FCA Melbourne Chinatown Chinese New Year Festival – Mon 16 Feb – Sun 1 Mar. The big celebration in Melbourne, with the opening ceremony on Sun 22 Feb followed by the Dragon awakening ceremony and parade.
Prahran Market – Sat 21 Feb 163 Commercial Rd, South Yarra. The Market is offering a range of free cultural activities including children’s cooking activity, lion dance, Chinese music.
Chinese New Year at Noble Park Racecourse (Sat 21 Feb – Sun 22 Feb) – Chinese Lion Dance, Firecrackers, Traditional Folk Music, Dancers, Martial Artists and much more.
Chinese New Year at Federation Square (Thu 26 Feb – Sun 1 Mar) – interactive performances, make your own dragon and free Tai Chi and Health Qigong demonstrations, mahjong lessons and a full stage program on 1 March with live music, dancing and a colourful performance.
Glen Waverley Chinese Lantern Festival – Sun 1 Mar, 10am-9pm. Kingsway, Glen Waverley. International food stalls, cultural performances and activities.

Also try these Chinese restaurants for a special CNY meal:

– David’s 4 Cecil Street Prahran

– Tao Tao House 815 Glenferrie Rd Hawthorn

– Golden Dragon Palace 363 Manningham Rd Lower Templestowe

– Shark Fin House 131 Little Bourke St Melbourne

How will you be celebrating The Year of the Goat in 2015?