Flavours of Melbourne

Flavours of Melbourne

Flavours of Melbourne is an exquisitely designed coffee table book that takes readers on a journey through Melbourne's best restaurants and bars within the cities laneways and rooftops. It also includes a selection of delicious recipes from famed local chefs, as well as historical information about the cities origin, from our indigenous ancestors to its status as the world's most liveable city.

Showcasing restaurants like Guy Grossi's Florentino and Merchant, Martin Pirc's Punch Lane and Aaron Whitney's Portello Rosso, author Jonette George has compiled an intriguing insight into these venues, as the owners share stories about their history, their chefs, their cooking styles and what makes them so legendary. Bars like Madame Brussells, Bar 1806 and Emerald Peacock are also featured, sharing their secret cocktails and the inspiration behind these successful venues.

The book is also embellished with signature recipes from some of Melbourne's iconic chefs, including Izakaya Den chef, Yosuke Furukawa's Spicy Tuna Tataki, Grossi Florentino chefs Guy Grossi and Chris Rodriguez' Risotto Venere with Bug Tails, and Le Petit Gateau chef, Pierrick Boyer's Strawberry and almond tart.

Flavours of Melbourne is a must-have guide for locals who want to know the best places to wine and dine, and for visitors who want to view Melbourne through the eyes of its residents.

Review: Flavours of Melbourne is a fantastic coffee table book; Melbourne has some of the best restaurants and bars in the world and they need to be showcased to locals and visitors alike! I have been lucky enough to dine at the eccentric rooftop bar, Madame Brussells and I thoroughly recommend the gorgeously unique venue for High Tea, drinks and all types of catch-ups, celebrations and functions.

You can choose to sit inside amongst the quirky 'backyard setting' of grass floors, paved brick path, vintage lawnmowers and outdoor table and chairs or amongst the ambiance of the rooftop deck that provides the beautiful landscape of the city surroundings. Madame Brussells also provides blankets to warm guests during the cooler months whilst sitting out on the deck. The waiters top the atmosphere off with baby pink polos and tennis shorts!

Want a bite to eat? Think High Tea at grandmas - delicious sandwiches, pink cupcakes, punch and very cute desserts. If you enjoy an exceptional cocktail (or two) I highly recommend Miss Ural and the Pimms; all drinks are accompanied by the freshest produce.

If you do plan to drop by the eclectic Madame Brussells often the lift is broken so you will have to climb the three or so flights of stairs but I promise you, Madame Brussells is worth it!
-Brooke Hunter

The unique combination of mother and daughter are behind Smudge Publishing, a Melbourne-based company which focuses on producing quality food and wine books. Both Daniele Wilton and Jonette George hold degrees in Communications and are both avid writers, designers and publishers. They care for their local environment, and are very mindful that small achievements can have a universal impact.

Flavours of Melbourne
Smudge Publishing
Author: Jonette George
ISBN: 9780980789188
Price: $69.99