Local, market-fresh and delivered good from Your Grocer

The monotony of dragging yourself down the crowded isles in one of the traditional supermarket chains, only to wait in the checkout queue for 10 minutes, is enough to drive even the most patient of shoppers insane.

In between the demands of work, family and social life, coupled with the desire to support local producers and put the best possible quality produce into your body (or just what you really love)…who honestly has enough time to personally source the groceries they really want, from where they want to get it?   

Thankfully, Your Grocer has recognised the struggle is real and is here to redress the balance with locally sourced goods delivered straight to your kitchen bench.

Brought to you by the team that founded ‘Thank-you’ water, Your Grocer offers a convenient online grocery shopping experience that sources from local artisan and independent grocers and brings it direct to you via a low cost, same-day delivery service to anywhere in Melbourne.

You’re spoilt for choice, with community retailers including Canals Seafood, North Carlton Quality Meats, Dench, Piedimontes in North Fitzroy, La Manna Fresh, Organics by La Manna Fresh, and more, all arriving to your door in one simple delivery.

Your Grocer makes it easy for you to connect with the favourite local providers that you’ve come to know and love but don’t always have the time to get to.

Find them online at www.yourgrocer.com.au. 

Straight up: Your Grocer engaged LMM to help share what they're doing with the good people of Melbourne, like you. This is an unpaid post but they kindly let LMM experience the delivery service herself - and it was goood. 

Face Fashion touches down on the runways of Melbourne

It seems Sydney has kept this under wraps for over a decade, but between the 25th and 27th of May we'll see Face Fashion swagger into Melbourne (they do know we’re the fashion capital right?!).

So what makes this different to your average runway show? First of all, it’s all about next generation Australian Designers, which makes it an ideal opportunity to discover new talent and experience jaw-dropping fashion shows.

But what’s really exciting is the inaugural Face Fashion Market; runway pieces available to purchase and wear RIGHT NOW!

At the historic Meat Market in North Melbourne this is three days of fashion with a new twist that Melbourne's first movers in fashion should put on their radar.

FACE FASHION | Runway and Designer Market
The Meat Market, 5 Blackwood Street, North Melbourne VIC 3051
Thursday 25th May | 6:30PM- DOORS OPEN | 7:45PM- RUNWAY SHOWS
Friday 26th May | 6:30PM- DOORS OPEN | 7:45PM- RUNWAY SHOWS  
Saturday 27th May | 10:00AM - 4:00PM | FACE FASHION MARKET
www.facefashion.com.au
https://www.instagram.com/facefashion/
https://www.facebook.com/facefashion.australia/

words by the stylish Lynda Collins

BIRTHDAY CLASSICS ON VINYL AND ONLINE

When I was a little girl, I used to love looking through my dad’s vinyl record collection, closely assessing the bizarre album cover art works while we listened to the accompanying sounds of Queen, Pink Floyd, The Police, Prince and other awesome classics.

So with dad’s birthday rapidly approaching in February, I thought it might be a nice touch to gift him a vinyl record in tribute to the memory of our original and very own lounge room anthologies.

Truth be known, I know very little about records besides those days when I was occasionally allowed to very carefully put needle to vinyl (is there a budding scratch DJ in me yet? Hmmm, not likely). Where do I buy records in Melbourne? And how can I get there when work has ramped up massively and I don’t have ‘normal person’ hours to do anything? And how, pray tell, am I meant to get it down to Gippsland in one piece, and quickly, seeing as a) I can’t get there in person until after his birthday, and b) I leave everything to the last minute.

As usual, the universe answered my calls for help and I happened across online vinyl albums at Discrepancy Records. These guys are Australian owned and operated vinyl gods that sell online - making the hunt, purchase and delivery of records a piece of cake. To my disorganised delight, I discovered that records are despatched within one business day of ordering so I was not going to be struck off the will for delivering said birthday record hideously late.

Furthermore, I could order some vinyl and send it off but pay for it later with interest-free ‘zipPay’. Or, if I didn’t have a particular album in mind (I’m convinced Dad will love Flume), I could have ordered him a gift card through Discrepancy Records too – who knows, maybe that’s his Christmas present sorted too. One can only hope that in February, I can get organised enough in time for that. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves.

Musically yours,

Little Miss xo

This post was orchestrated in collaboration with Discrepancy Records. Image Source. 

Your Melbourne Staycation

I often think about the amount of time and money I spend going overseas when there’s so much right here on our own doorstep. I’m reminded of it every time I return from being away and as such am a massive advocate of a good staycation in Melbourne when you're not visiting other places. When was the last time you kicked back, threw on your flip flops and explored our incredible town like a tourist? 

No stranger to being voted the most liveable city in the world, Melbourne offers a wide mix of style, culture, sport, beaches, architecture, music, wineries, and more.  

There’s Federation Square, opposite Flinders street station, to offer a dose of cultural energy and people watching while you enjoy the expansive precinct and its concerts, galleries, markets, exhibitions, cafes and restaurants. There’s never a dull moment at Fed Square and when you need some time out from all the activity, you can take a wander down to the Yarra River and watch the rowers go by, or jump across to Hosier Lane to see the latest street art that may have appeared up overnight - or in the last hour. Need to upload some images? There are loads of wifi hotspots in Melbourne to help work and play at the same time and stay connected. 

See the sun set over the water from Southwharf.

If you want to feel the sand between your toes, St Kilda beach is just 20 minutes by tram from the CBD along with a promenade full of live musicians and restaurants. Or, just an hour from the city, hit up the incredible surf that’s to be found on our peninsulas. It’s always worth a quick road trip for a mini break with soul.

Naturally, there’s the food, and with a healthy number of Michelin starred venues and the likes of Heston Blumenthal’s Dinner by Heston, or Vue de Monde on level 55 of the Rialto building, to Asian and Italian hotspots right across the city - you’re never without good flavours from other countries right here.

Enjoy a diversity of cuisines from all around the world like traditional Chinese at Mr Kwok. 

For a breath of fresh air, spend some time in the beautiful Botanical Gardens, take a boat tour on the Yarra, head further out a bit further along the Great Ocean Road to visit the 12 apostles, or stay city side and enjoy one of the many rooftop bars around town for a different perspective on things.

This merely touches the surface on what you can get up to on a staycation in Melbourne. Make the most of this cultural mecca and you’ll soon be feeling grateful again that you actually get to live here too. 

SHOP AND LEAVE A TRAIL OF GOOD THIS XMAS

Tis the season to be jolly (fa la la la laaa…). But as we very well know, just because it’s the season of joy, does not mean that everyone’s problems magically disappear. In fact, with all the stress that Christmas and the new year period can bring, it can actually make things worse. That’s why it's SO GOOD that a group of amazing businesses are contributing to a wonderful cause this Christmas that helps you leave a trail of good too.  

The Good Xmas Trail has brought together over 45 social enterprises across Australia to offer you products and services that will, in turn, give back to help make a difference and generate more good in our community.

It’s the ultimate feel-good win-win-win this Christmas.

And with so many to choose from – between gifts and experiences, parties and catering, food and drink – it makes The Good Xmas Trail a one stop Christmas pressie shop with loads of ideas on what to get your friends and fam. The Melbourne Food and Wine Festival alone is holding five brilliant events with its partners like the Progressive Laneway Dinner and HEAT’s Homeless Longest Lunch at Luna Park in St Kilda.  

I’m so, so glad that this concept crossed my path and that I’m able to share it with you.

Here’s just a tiny taster of all the fantastic things available to help you leave a trail of good this year:  

The Good Beer Co – Australia’s first social enterprise beer company raising money to help protect the Great Barrier Reef with their brew of the same name. Cheers to that. 

Fruit2Work – corporate hampers filled with fruit, treats and wine that provides paid, transitional employment for people in need of a second chance. One of my favourites.  

Goodwill Wine – choose your wine, choose your charity (brilliant!). Boutique vinos from independent wineries around Australia that support your selected cause.  

The Goodness Bureau – thoroughly assessed ethical and local gifts, homewares and lifestyle products created with kindness. Mention The Good Xmas Trail and you’ll get 10% off too…  

Peppergreen Farm Catering (Bendigo) – put your hectic schedule to good use with catered meals delivered to your home or office that support disadvantaged or disabled people.  

Mildura Chocolate Co – sweet, chocolatey goodness that helps raise awareness and understanding of employees’ abilities, rather than their disabilities.   

The Legend Project – now you can help tackle homelessness in your active wear (active wear) with sporting accessories that give items, support and help to people on the streets.  

Taste Cultural Tours (Sydney) – walk, talk and eat through Sydney’s diverse suburbs and town centres for a culinary and cultural immersion that engages the local community.  

There’s seriously so much more to discover with The Good Xmas Trail. If you’re yet to do your Christmas shopping this year (which is probably most of us…) please consider buying from one of these inspiring social enterprises committed to helping others while helping you!

Wishes for a safe, calm Christmas filled with love, gratitude and loads of good.  

Happily written in collaboration with The Good Xmas Trail. Merry Christmas!

Laneway to Carnivore Love at A Hereford Beefstouw

ACDC might've sung about Highway to Hell, but A Hereford Beefstouw's newest and second Australian offering, down the iconic ACDC Lane in Melbourne's CBD, is set to be a Laneway to Love - carnivore love. 

With a passion for 'first class beef' cooked on an open grill, A Hereford Beefstouw is a series of contemporary steakhouses from the Damgaard family and found in Denmark, Sweden, Greenland, Adelaide and now Melbourne.

Beefing things up for around 45 years, it's safe to say these guys know their meat. After partnering up with Adelaide farmers, Tim and Sarah Burvill, to form and source from the South Australian Cattle Co, it made sense for the restaurants to expand to our golden land too. Five years after opening in Adelaide, they've grazed their way over to Victoria too.

Having its roots in Denmark, the design of the space has followed suit with an 'organic', Scandinavian feel laden with solid timber and contemporary art. They've purposely made this different to its Australian sister site in Adelaide where you'll find more of a classic interior but the similarities that prevail include a traditional open grill, towels hanging from underneath tables, personal ordering cards, a salad bar, plus colourful carts for slicing and dicing the meat in front of you. Swanky. 

On the menu you'll find a series a entrees that apply an Australian touch to traditional Danish fare influenced by chef Daniel Groom's experience with both. Think mini Danish hotdogs with a sweet mustard, divinely fresh gravad lax salmon (carved at your table), and heirloom beetroots with horseradish snow, goats cheese and candied walnuts.

The main affair naturally offers a hefty selection of meat, including ribs, steaks and a baby snapper for good measure. The 100 day dry aged beef is the go-to for steak aficionados craving the ultimate blend of flavour and tenderness. Those with bad memories of mutton should revisit this number and create a new experience with a 30 day dry aged saltbush mutton - all the right flavours are there. Supplement your meal with some greenery from a trademark, self-serve 'garden' of salads, sauces, mustards and dressings for an extra $12, and leave room for dessert - colourful, light and creative. 

A Hereford Beefstouw re-introduces us to the steakhouse that is thankfully a far cry from a 90's visit to Sizzler. One to check out if you're after good quality meat in a beautiful setting, free from any hipster hype. 

A Hereford Beefstouw
22 Duckboard Place (down ACDC Lane, off Flinders Lane)
Call to book: 03 9654 8297
http://beefstouw.com/melbourne-australia

PASTUSO LOVES ALPACA

Alpacas. They're cute. They're fuzzy. And, according to our Flinders Lane Peruvian pros at Pastuso, they're tasty too. The meat has been one of Peru's favourite proteins for centuries so Pastuso is bringing the iconic Alpaca Lunch back for another year for us to sample the goods. 

In partnership with The Age Good Food Month, the grill, cevicheria and pisco bar will be showcasing the just-slightly-gamier-than-beef meat with a nose to tail menu from chef Alejandro Savaria and his talented team. 

This Alpaca-inspired degustation lunch will feature dishes like short ribs, tenderloin with nori seaweed and light dashi, and shoulder with seasonal vegetables, quinoa, Madeira and roasted Andean chilli sauce. All of a sudden Alpacas sound a lot more edible. 

For three and a half hours of something a little bit different, just shoot an email to info@pastuso.com.au to book. And, whatever you do, don't think about the cute.  

Pastuso's Alpaca Lunch
Saturday November 19
12.30pm to 4pm
$100pp + $55pp for matching wines 
bookings essential: info@pastuso.com.au  

SPARE ME THE DETAILS; SHOW ME THE FOOD

Spare Me Kitchen nestled itself into the unassuming lounge of Fitzroy's Glamorama Bar earlier this year and has since been sparing Melburnians from their pre-party hunger with top quality nosh.  

I'll be honest with you; it was a surprise that such good fare and service was going to be found at a night club - but a highly pleasant surprise it was. 

Soft shell crab burger

Exec chef, David Stewart, has brought with him his creative flair and love of the paddock-to-plate mentality that he also applies at his own popular spot, Ascot Food Store. Complementing the fun and free atmosphere of Glamorama, Stewart has whipped up an eclectic and palatably-priced menu of dishes designed for sharing with a few mains thrown in for good appetites. 

Marinated mushrooms with crispy tofu

Stand outs for our table included an utterly sublime jamon and duck liver parfait ($10), light and fresh Hiramasa kingfish ceviche ($15), fried buttermilk chicken with sriracha mayo ($16) and the delicately crisp soft shell crab burger ($16) - together with a mandatory side of tasty fries ($6) - washed down with some Paul Louis bubbles. 

Being a late night venue, you're well fed before the party people arrive. Then again, if you can't beat them, join them, and dance off that chocolate marquise you failed at resisting for dessert. 

Follow the neon signs and make your way up to Spare Me Kitchen for some good, honest eats in the heart of Fitzroy. 

Spare Me Kitchen
Level 1, 393 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy
5pm-11pm Wednesday to Sunday
See the menu & book online
 

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THE AUSTRALIAN BALLET TAKES NIJINSKY HEAD ON

Nijinsky leapt onto the stage this week at Melbourne's Arts Centre performed by the Australian Ballet, masterfully capturing the rise and subsequent fall of an artist who set a new precedence for dance. 

Titled the God of Dance by the Parisians, or 'le dieu de la danse', Nijinsky truly experienced the dramatic extremes of talent and fame, shattered by the rapid decline in mental health that led to his last dance at a Swiss Hotel.

This is where acclaimed choreographer, John Neumeier, has set the scene of this powerful, captivating and chaotic production that carries you through the vivid memories of a man with increasing mental instability. 

Rarely leaving our sight, Alexandre Riabko determinedly and exquisitely expresses the emotions and experiences of Vaslav Nijinsky as we witness his troubled relationship with family, lovers and fame. Kevin Jackson and Jake Mangakahia will also take this role over the next two weeks, all amongst a skilfully designed set and costumes inspired by the stunning 20th century Parisian glam of the Ballet Russes. 

The unique element of this ballet is the challenge it has offered the male dancers to adopt Nijinsky's demanding and distinctive style; a challenge that has been met with grace and resolve. An awe inspiring piece that showcases the brilliance of Nijinsky while building compassion around his mental decline, this is a ballet that boldly connects the body with the mind, head on. 

Nijinsky - The Australian Ballet
Melbourne Arts Centre
7-17 September

Adelaide 14-19 October
Sydney 11-28 November

Gin time for Bombay Sapphire's Project Botanicals

With the Gin Queen launching her gin tour trifecta this weekend, and Project Botanicals coming at us in September, it's safe to say it's currently all about the gin in Melbourne (she says, as she sips on her Sunday gin and juice). 

And I can say with confidence that this year's hoorah from the beautifully branded Bombay Sapphire is set to impress. Not only is the two week pop-up centrally located at Taxi Riverside on Federation Square, they've also teamed up with the foodie pros at Taxi Kitchen to offer you an ediblicious gin experience. 

Taxi's head Chef, Tony Twitchett, has paired popular numbers like their incredible candied pork, moreish tempura mussels, coffee smoked duck and sake washed tuna, with cocktails mastered by Melbourne's most creative bartenders, showcasing the 10 botanicals found in every bottle of Bombay Sapphire. 

While you gin and grin, you'll nod away to Sydney's DJ duo Yolanda Be Cool and experience gin inspired fragrance from Samantha Taylor of the Powder Room, all pimped with views of the Yarra from Taxi Riverside. 

Your ticket comes with two dishes and two cocktails for $49 (plus that pesky booking fee) and, in indication of the event's popularity, the Friday and Saturday nights are already sold out on both weekends. 

Fortunately, any time is a good time for gin so get your Thirstday and Sunyay on from September 8th at the 2016 Bombay Sapphire Project Botanicals.

8-18 September 2016
$49 (+bf)
Taxi Riverside (on the Yarra side of Fed. Square)
Tickets online

ROAD TRIPPING WITH GIN ROYALTY

Who doesn't love a good ole day-time road trip, temporarily escaping the busy city life for a breath of fresh air? Well, if you also love your gin, you're in for a treat. 

Melbourne's Gin Queen has partnered up with some of our marvelous gin distilleries to offer you a series of gin tour road trips complete with gin tastings, a light lunch AND a private gin bus to take care of the driving. 

Kicking off this month, the first tour will head to Four Pillars Distillery where you'll meet distiller, Cameron Mackenzie, learn about their gins, sample their gins, enjoy a light lunch then head back to the bus to return to town. But it's not over there. Once you get back to the city you head to where else but Gin Palace with your Queen for a mini martini made with Four Pillars. 

The other tours will visit Loch Brewery & Distillery in September then the Melbourne Gin Company in October (which is not normally open to the public so you really are getting royal treatment).

This could easily be your monthly activity with your gin crew to take you through to late Spring - in fact, anyone who buys all three tours at the same time will go into a draw to win a gin hamper on the third and final tour. Cheers! 

But be quick - the bus only seats 23 so get yo'selves organised and hit the road to gin.

27 August - Four Pillars - $99
10 September - Loch Brewery & Distillery - $99
15 October - Melbourne Gin Company - $99
12noon to 5pm
Book online  
Buy all 3 at the same time and go in to win a gin hamper, drawn at random and presented on the final tour.

Avenue Q in M town - ends this week

Seven years ago I was in New York City watching a very funny theatre production called Avenue Q. Coincidentally, 2016 marked the year that I both returned to NYC, and watched Avenue Q once again - but this time in Melbourne. 

Last week the award winning musical opened at Her Majesty's Theatre and, with the exception of a small mention of Donald Trump's hair, not much has changed - which is great because why fix something if it aint broke? It's still highly inappropriate. Still very politically incorrect. And still hugely hilarious. 

Amongst the laughs surrounding the hard-honest-truth vulgarities of this production, there's something about it all that makes you go 'hmmm'. As you watch puppet college graduate, Princeton, go through the motions of finding love, finding somewhere to live (that he can afford), and finding his purpose in life, you can't help but feel a sympathetic soft spot for the furry fellow - even when he's being stupidly led astray by The Bad Idea Bears...

Part person, part puppet, Avenue Q touches on most of the taboo topics in brazen defiance that makes an ironic point through comedy and song. In fact, if you or someone you know has a tendency to take life a little too seriously, Avenue Q is right up your alley. 

But don't be fooled. The warning from Her Majesty's is clear: full puppet nudity will induce raucous laughter. Leave the impressionable kiddlywinks at home, and be quick - it ends this Sunday 14th August. 

Avenue Q
Her Majesty's Theatre
Tickets on sale now
 

HEAD NORTH TO 7000 BY PURE SOUTH

Southbank resident restaurant, Pure South, has flown north for the winter. Two floors up, to be precise.

The long-time running venue is undergoing a massive makeover which, it appears, has left owners Peter Leary and Philip Kennedy with a case of restauranteur FOMO.

In response to this, the passionate purveyors of Tasmanian produce have launched a temporary kitchen on the upper level of the Southgate complex, adding a whole new perspective to things. 

The view from within the lounge area and terrace at 7000 by Pure South

Overlooking the Yarra, the Arts Centre and Flinders Street Station, this 'pop up' is offering a taste of the known and a touch of the new. The space and the menu is designed to accommodate guests with, well, whatever they happen to feel like at the time.

A glass of Tasmanian sparkling on the terrace, crunching on long planks of puffed pork, or succulent cobbed corn with melted raclette goodness. A slow, group lunch or dinner with something a bit heartier. Or perhaps a timely pre-show bite, just a few minutes away from the Arts Centre and conveniently on the same level. 

The passionate, dedicated, herb-foraging talent that is Executive Chef, David Hall, has worked tirelessly on crafting days-in-the-making dishes with Sous Chef, Sam, that are creative and innovative, like an up-coming take on the caesar salad that is truly unique. 

Not just a pretty face, 7000 by Pure South also seems pretty to the core with a relationship-focused team who appears to love looking after everyone around them; their guests, their staff and their suppliers. 

If you're Southbank bound, drop in and say hi to the family that is 7000 by Pure South and soak up a taste of Tasmania right here in the heart of Melbourne.

7000 by Pure South
Dinner: Tuesday to Saturday
Lunch: Wednesday to Friday
Southgate Complex, upper floor, Arts Centre end
Bookings accepted - online, or 03 9699 4600

‘Just because’ degustation at Eureka 89

All too often, it seems, we wait for a special occasion to treat ourselves or our loved ones. Valentine’s Day. Birthdays. Christmas. For me, I grew up in a family where we did nice things for each other all year round and the message from my mum has stayed with me into my adult life; you don’t need a special occasion to do something nice with or for a special person. 

That said, as life gets busier and the milestones come at you faster, sometimes this can be easy to forget - even when it’s ingrained in you.

So I was grateful to remember the lesson when mum and I indulged in a degustation lunch at Eureka 89. Our waiter asked if we were there for a special occasion. Well, actually, I was there to review the place and share the experience with you. But, as it happens, time with my mum is most definitely a special enough reason to spend any afternoon dining in the sky.

When you go to Eureka 89 ‘just because’, it soon enough feels like a special occasion with a red carpet welcome on the ground floor. On entering through the exclusive entrance separate from Eureka Sky Deck, you’re escorted further down the red rug beneath your feet, straight past a long line of people waiting for the deck. You’re then asked to wait for the next available lift which will take your party – and only you – up to the skydeck level. When you hit 88, you’re politely welcomed and guided through to another lift to take you one extra level to Eureka 89.

If first impressions count, this is a good way to start.

Entering the chic and sophisticated space on level 89, you know you’re in for a treat. Guided from the lift to your table, your waiter introduces themselves and offers a pre-lunch drink before the serious stuff begins.  Meanwhile,  you can’t look away from  the stunning views around you.

The degustation lunch at 89 on a Sunday offers five courses with matched wines. I’m not going to be a complete spoiler and reveal the full experience but allow me to divulge a few of the many delectable elements.

To prep, we’re presented with a delicate amuse-bouche, which suits the champagne we ordered on arrival (like mother, like daughter).

A first course of octopus comes perfectly paired with a Deviation Road sparkling rose from SA - more bubbles makes us happy ladies. I’m delighted to see that second course features in-season truffle and I’m further pleased when the 2014 Charteris Riesling from NZ does a brilliant job of cutting through the potato and leek.  

Third course had me at ‘spatchcock stuffed with foie gras’, further sold with a Shadowfax “Minnow” 2014 blend from Victoria. My favourite dish involved NZ venison, with unsuspecting pops of pomegranate and pine nuts, accompanied by a Pittnauer Pitti Blaufrankisch 2014 from Austria. This dish feels like the heart and soul of the degustation at 89.

Dessert is creative, light and inspiring, even for the ‘I’m sweet-enoughs’ amongst us. Throughout, the service is impeccable - educated about the menu and wines with the right level of warmth and attentiveness (not too little, not too much). 

My tips. If you’re looking to really admire or show off the diverse and beautiful features Melbourne has to offer, go for a lunchtime sitting. If it’s for something more romantic and sparkly to glance at in between swoons, opt for a dinner degustation; there’s something truly magical about this city from up high at night time. Eureka 89 is a fine dining affair; dress accordingly. That said this must be one of the few bathrooms where it’s entirely acceptable to take photos. The five course offering was a good size for us (we didn’t need dinner), so if you’re an average eater, five is good. If you’re a larger eater, you might prefer seven courses. Take your glasses or contacts if you’re short sighted like petit moi; you don’t want to miss out on this. Digest with a complimentary wander around Eureka Skydeck 88, if it’s not too crowded to kill your exclusive 89 vibe. And most of all, if you’re thinking it’s better to wait for a special occasion to dine at Eureka 89, it’s not. Go now. Life is special enough – and so are you.

Eureka 89 Degustation Lunch or Dinner
Tues-Thurs & Sun lunch:  5 courses $105 | + wine $160
Fri & Sat only:  7 courses $140 | + wine $220

SLEEP AT THE G AND HELP HOMELESS YOUTH

Most of us have been very fortunate to never have been homeless or without a roof over our head. We’ve never needed to concern ourselves with having nowhere to go, sleeping rough on cold nights or live in unsafe environments. Yet, over 6,000 young people in Melbourne are forced to sleep in cars, on couches and, in some cases, on the streets.

It’s a staggering figure and one that is very concerning. Youth aged from 12 -25 in Victoria are finding themselves homeless with nowhere to go – no doubt a terrifying, confronting and traumatic experience.

Melbourne City Mission is a charity helping to put youth homelessness to bed. This week, on Thursday 26th May, the annual Sleep at the G’ event will host over 1,000 compassionate people for a sleep out at the iconic MCG. It’s a special event and a great way to get a team together and join in on an action packed night of music, comedy and games.

Homelessness is one of the most severe forms of disadvantage and social exclusion that any person can experience, especially for young people, as it has an adverse effect on their health and wellbeing.

Sleep at the G’ is your opportunity to make a change to homelessness in your very own city. Sleep on a cardboard box and get together with some friends, family or colleagues to raise vital funds to support Melbourne City Mission’s life changing work.

As Melbourne City Mission say, we’re on a mission – so let’s put youth homelessness to bed.

To register or donate, please visit www.sleepattheg.com.au

SLEEP AT THE G
THURSDAY MAY 26
MCG, MELBOURNE
 

MUST-TRY MELBOURNE MARKET EATS

The Markets of Melbourne are an important part of Melbourne’s food history and culture, not to mention the wonderful experience of shopping at the market’s and speaking to traders who love their produce and have great knowledge to share.

Here are some of Melbourne’s top markets dishing up some amazing eats after a bit of appetite building meandering and shopping!

MAKER & MONGER, Prahran Market  

Trading from a beautifully restored French food cart in the Harvest Hall, Maker & Monger is the brainchild of world class cheese-monger, Anthony Femia. Their trademark bites include the famous American grilled cheese sandwich, and the traditional Swiss raclette served over potatoes and pickle. Enjoy a rotating seasonal offering and Mork iced chocolate, with enough cheesy goodness to keep you satisfied all year round.

Cheesy goodness at Maker & Monger

SIMPLY SPANISH, South Melbourne Market

The perfect spot for fun loving tapas, where you can sit back, relax and enjoy some delightful food and fine wine or homemade sangria. Go for their famous paella, cooked in big pans on Cecil Street. Delicious!

Simply Spanish at South Melbourne  

BRATWURST SHOP & CO, Queen Victoria Market

Well known for their brat on the go, Bratwurst Shop & Co’s grilled bratwurst comes served in a white or wholemeal roll. Choose from mild, spicy, cheese, weisswurst, black pepper, chorizo or chicken & mushroom with your selection of mustards, sauces or sauerkraut – this is the classic market experience!

A brat hit at Queen Vic Markets 

DANDEE DONUTS, Dandenong Market

If you’re a sweet tooth, you can’t go past hot jam donuts in Melbourne’s winter! One of Dandenong Market’s most popular and iconic stalls, Dandee Donuts draws people from all over Melbourne with their delicious, freshly made and cooked in-house donuts. They’re also egg free, dairy free and have no additives, using Australian grown ingredients and an original recipe developed in the 1950s.

WIN TIX TO YOUR PERFECT DAY

If you’re currently immersed in the world of wedding planning (or know someone who is), you’ll know that it involves a LOT of time on Google, oodles of appointments and mountains of meetings. But what if you could meet a selection of Melbourne’s top wedding suppliers, all in one place on one day?

That’s what Your Perfect Day is all about – making it as fun and easy as possible to plan your own perfect day, whether that involves a glam ballroom and vintage cars or a converted barn and food trucks. 

Happening at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre on 25 and 26 June, you’ll find all the suppliers you need to help bring your dream wedding to life, at Your Perfect Day. There will also be fashion shows, workshops, classes and a Taittinger champagne bar (because wedding planning is thirsty work!).

WIN. I have two double passes to give away to Your Perfect Day – just head to Twitter or comment below in 25 words or less what your perfect day looks like. Entries close 5pm Sunday 29th June. Good luck!

Your Perfect Day
Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre
25 and 26 June
10am-5pm

WITH AUTUMN COMES EAT STREET 2016

Is anyone else wondering how on earth it can possibly be May already? The good news is that with May's shorter days and cooler nights comes one of Melbourne's biggest and best foodie fundraisers at Sofitel Melbourne on Collins.

Yep, it's nearly time for the 2016 Eat Street, in what will be its 17th year of bringing together some of Melbourne's best chefs and restaurants all in the name of charity (and some darn tasty food). 

If you like the idea of cocktail attire, a silent auction, signature dishes from our finest local talent, live entertainment from Ali McGregor, event styling that will have you in awe while you sip on Australia's top wine and beverages - for the all-inclusive price of $160 per person - then you should really get to Eat Street this year. 

Besides completely and utterly enjoying yourself, you'll be helping raise money for kids in need through Variety Victoria (and we all know how much Variety loves a good party for a good cause).

Buy your tickets online, find something fabulous to wear (perhaps with an elasticated waist...) and join us on May 24th for the 2016 EAT ME DRINK ME themed Eat Street. 

Eat Street
Tuesday May 24th, from 6pm
Sofitel Melbourne on Collins

Here's a sneak peek of who you can expect to see there: 

Botanical Bottega, Calendar, Captain Baxter, Char Dining, Clamms, Coombe - The Melba Estate, CSHG, Cumulus Inc, Dutchess, Estelle Bistro, Ganache Chocolate, King Island Dairy, Le Petit Gateau, Long Story Short, No35, Pei Modern, Saint Crispin, Scugnizzo, STKBB, Syracuse, Taxi Kitchen, The Baths, The Point, Tonka & Coda.

Plus: 
Airoldi Fine Wines, Angove Wines, Birra Moretti, Coke, Cru Wines, De Bortoli Wines, Fine Wine Partners, Graillot, JING tea, Mezzanine, Nestle Professional, Pizinni Wines, Rob Dolan Wines, Tellurian, Heathcote, Vino Bambino, YarraLoch Wines.

Hot Cross (gelato!) Buns

How good is Easter? We get four days off, there's still a hint of summer in the air, and NOW we're being treated to hot cross buns with gelato inside... *GASP*.

The popular kids at Pidapipo have been scheming with the tasty and talented Baker D'Chirico to create a limited edition Easter treat: Pidapipo's Crema and Jam gelato encased in one of Daniel and Allona's sticky sourdough hot cross bun. YES. 

You can get your soon-to-be-sticky hands on these Easter babes at the Carlton Pidapipo store between the 24th of March and Easter Sunday. 

This Easter, hop to it, my furry, gelato, hot cross bun loving friends!

Hot Cross Gelato Bun
Pidapipo Carlton
Limited time only - March 24 - March 27

Can an Ecosa mattress save the insomniac day (or night)?

Most people suffer from insomnia at some stage in their lives. For others, such as myself, it can be a lifelong curse. While one can become a seasoned pro at functioning on very little sleep, it starts to take its toll mentally and physically after a good, oh, 30 years or so. I’ve tried almost everything from herbal tea to light therapy to expensive contour pillows and Chinese medicine remedies. In fact, just about the only thing I hadn’t tried was replacing my mattress – which may seem like an obvious solution but one that would need a large investment of time and money for potentially very little pay off. What do you do with a mattress that doesn’t ‘work’ the way you want it to once you’ve bought it and got it home? 

My chance to try a different mattress came when I returned from an extended workation overseas and was in the market for a new bed after selling mine before I left. As it happens, the Ecosa mattress landed on my radar and soon after I’d moved back into my Melbourne apartment one also landed on my doorstep. In a box. With wheels. Very cute and convenient. 

I recruited some muscly help to take it out of the box using the supplied knife to cut open the packaging and soon enough the latex gel memory foam slab was atop my new bed frame.  Once the mattress had fully expanded it was ready for some horizontal action. By that, I mean sleep, and sleep I did. Quite firm at first, it has softened up a tad over the last month and I am ecstatic to report that I’ve been enjoying positively more sleep than normal.  

It feels good waking up in this bed. It feels fresh. I feel fresh. I don’t want to get out of it in the morning. With a latex layer on top and pin-core holes to make it breathable and spongy, a gel memory foam layer underneath evenly distributes your body weight across the mattress. The added bonus is a cover that’s fully removable and machine washable for when it’s ready for a refresh and you don’t need to flip or rotate your mattress - ever. 

For the first time in my life, I’ve indulged in a king size and it’s positively divine waking up after a good night’s sleep while strewn across the expansive cushiness. This may be a bold statement from a seasoned insomniac, but I (finally) love my bed. 

If, like me, you’re concerned about investing in a mattress when there’s potential you may not actually like it, these guys offer a 100 day trial for you to test it out and return it with a full refund if it’s not your cup of tea. Speaking of cups of tea, you can let that rest on the bed in the morning too because there is no real referral movement across the mattress. Great for light sleepers who share a bed.   

Ecosa mattresses are available online at www.ecosa.com.au where you can quickly and easily see the price and specs of this one mattress available in six sizes. The hardest decision you’ll have to make is whether to get the queen or king. And you’ll already know what I recommend. 

Happy slumbering, 

Little Miss xoxo