Now that we’re enjoying better currency exchange for Australia, it’s time to take your dollar Down Under. Lap up these gastronomical affairs thriving in the Western region
A region that holds immense pride in its mouth-watering cuisine and diverse harvests, Western Australia (WA) — which spans major areas such as Perth, Albany and Broome — has popped up on the world map as the newest El Dorado of gourmet discovery.
Feast on exotic and familiar creations from Australia and around the world, while getting up close to the stunning sights of the region.
If you’re lucky, you may get to whip up your own dishes at a festival or even pick your own ingredients from popular harvesting sites.
If this plan has gotten you salivating, check out these two upcoming gourmet fiestas that will guide you to the best
of WA.
MARGARET RIVER GOURMET ESCAPE
Back for its fourth year, this culinary extravaganza is pulling all the stops to bring you the best of the region.
Margaret River is adored as the melting pot of WA, where styles, cultures and influences in cuisine from around the world converge.
Making a special appearance at this festival is British ‘rockstar’ chef Marco Pierre White; a Michelin-starred mentor to celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay and resident guest judge on MasterChef Australia. At the festival, he will showcase quintessential WA produce and wines.
Marco will also host an intimate dinner and question-and-answer session, one of the most anticipated events at the three-day event, at the exquisite Vasse Felix winery.
You’ll get to savour signature dishes from the kitchens of Marco’s eponymous restaurants at the winery, prepared by some of the best chefs under his mentorship.
You can also catch a taste of home while you’re out at Margaret River — Singapore’s own chefs will be demonstrating their prowess here too.
For instance, Tippling Club’s Ryan Clift, who has worked with culinary heavyweights like Peter Gordon and Marco, will debut his skills at the Margaret River stage.
Joining him is returning guest Chef Sam Leong, whose unique signature creations at last year’s Gourmet Escape earned him high praise from other guest chefs and international audiences.
Chef Leong is known for his innovative spin on contemporary Chinese cuisine.
Pulling talents in from all corners of the world into one incredible banquet, the Margaret River Gourmet Escape will also feature top chefs from Bangkok, Hong Kong, Mexico City, the United Kingdom, Moscow and more.
The Margaret River Gourmet Escape 2015 will run from Nov 20 to 22. More information available at www.gourmetescape.com.au. For tickets, visit www.ticketek.com.au.
EAT DRINK BUY WITH CELEBRITY CHEF
Prefer to traipse across the WA region on a food hunt with an expert? Join the vivacious and fun culinary personality Redzuawan Ismail — popularly known as Chef Wan — as he leads you to the delicious hidden corners of WA.
Have your fill at Margaret River attractions such as Farmers’ Market, Cheeky Monkey Brewery & Cidery and fruit picking at Wonky Windmill Farm & Eco. Or uncover exciting Swan Valley treats at Whistlers Confectionery, Mondo Nougat, The Cheese Barrel and Caversham Wildlife Park.
Now that you’re probably full beyond words, take a walk in the amazing Pinnacles Desert in Cervantes and ride over the sand dunes in Lancelin. Accompanied by Chef Wan’s wit, humour and bountiful knowledge about Australian cuisine, you’ll be wishing for a longer trip.
More adventurous travellers can also choose from several thrilling self-drive packages under Eat Drink Buy, and head out on an epic journey Down Under.
These packages include accommodation, car rental and a cruise down Swan River, so you can explore WA free and easy without being bogged down too much by the details.
After all, you’ll want to spend as much time and energy as you can happily feasting in WA.
By Pamela Chow
Various Eat Drink Buy packages are available at www.bestperthdeals.com/singapore.
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