Sandi Sieger’s guide to what’s hot and happy(ning) this week. Eat, drink, buy, try, visit, read, be merry.
EAT: YAWYE Smoothie & Acai Bowls
A new smoothie bar has opened in Melbourne’s CBD that is set to take the health food scene by storm. ‘YAWYE’ is serving eye-catching and ingredient-rich smoothies and acai bowls from its location at 181 Little Collins St, and is your next stop shop for food that fuels.
For those wanting a health kick or simply a delicious drink on the go, customers can choose from a variety of unique smoothies at YAWYE from its cosy corner shop on Little Collins St. Chef and Food Consultant Sarah Watson has designed a menu of delicious smoothies and acai bowls with targeted health benefits from immunity boosting to anti-ageing and gut health.
Sarah has a wealth of experience in the health food space – working as a private chef for tennis player Roger Federer and developing the recipes for the wellness app Centr, founded by actor Chris Hemsworth. At YAWYE, Sarah has created a selection of unique ingredient combinations that aren’t just good for you, they’re also really tasty.
DRINK: At Starward Whisky’s Bold New Distillery & Bar
After taking out the title of Australia’s Most Awarded Distillery of the Year at the 2022 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, Starward’s new bar and hospitality space promises to explore untapped realms of whisky enjoyment for whisky enthusiasts and novices alike.
A curated selection of seasonal and signature cocktails invites guests to discover the versatility of Starward whisky, while an array of hands on-experiences will take you on a deep dive into the world of whisky-making, including a ‘Fill Your Own Bottle’ experience where attendees are able to bottle their own unique expression of Starward whisky, complete with a customised label and take-home gift box.
In an exciting first, Starward will also offer a curated food menu led by Head Chef Drew Traynor (ex Eau De Vie, Cumulus). Inspired by Melbourne’s vibrant culinary landscape, each dish is made up of locally sourced ingredients that compliment Starward whisky’s bold character. From antipasto grazing boards to mouthwatering smoked trout croquettes, guests can anticipate a flavour-filled journey where the food is designed to work in harmony with the whisky.
Plus, look out for the new Distillery Chef’s selection menu, where a Starward expert will guide you through a three-course sip and grazing menu with each course paired to a whisky cocktail.
Designed by Studio Y architects, the space seamlessly blends modern industrial aesthetics with a warm, inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re sipping on cocktails at the open-plan bar or enjoying a guided whisky tasting in one of the intimate booths, every corner of Starward Distillery & Bar exudes the brand’s playful and vibrant identity.
Visitors are invited to experience the new Starward Distillery & Bar, with table bookings and reservations available here.
TRY: Bickford’s New Celebration Flavours
Bickford’s, the iconic family-owned Australian household brand, is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year, and to mark the occasion they’ve launched six new celebration flavours that are equally as nostalgic as they are delicious.
From Lemon Barley Cordial evoking memories of Grandma’s pantry, the lime cordial that transformed into refreshing icy poles to combat the heat of Aussie summers, and the iconic Lemon Lime & Bitters that rivals any bartender’s creation; for most Australians, a love of Bickford’s was imparted at a young age. The taste of your childhood, a staple of summer; it’s hard to imagine hot days without cold cordial in the backyard.
As part of Bickford’s anniversary, a line-up of six new celebration flavours have launched, as well as the revival of a beloved fan-favorite flavour. Available nationally, the limited edition celebration flavours include Lime Spider, Strawberry Lime Crush, Raspberry Ripple, Mango Coconut Splash, Pink Lemonade and Creamy Soda. Crafted using the finest quality ingredients, they blend a touch of nostalgia with a contemporary Bickford’s twist.
BUY: Alivio Wellness
Alivio Wellness is an Australian made hemp-based skin care designed to revitalise your skin, naturally. Organically grown and farmed in Tasmania, Alivio’s Hemp Seed Oil – one of the most powerfully hydrating antioxidants on the planet – takes pride of place within all Alivio Wellness product formulations. And for good reason.
The rising star on the beauty stage, Alivio’s Hemp Seed Oil – which contains no THC – is primarily known and loved for its skin soothing and healing benefits, its ability to moisturise without clogging pores, and a manifold of beauty benefits. Championed for its remarkable ability to deeply penetrate the skin and combat the signs of ageing, Alivio extract this beauty superfood from its seed using a cold pressed method which maintains integrity and potency, to ensure your skin receives the maximum benefit.
Alivio is high in Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids and proteins and contains compounds that naturally reduce oxidative stress. It’s noticeably enhanced my skin, adding extra hydration and nourishment. Learn more about the range here.
VISIT: Holgate Brewhouse
Holgate Brewhouse is a ‘hidden gem’ nestled in beautiful Woodend, located in the Macedon Ranges, Central Victoria. Holgate Brewhouse is a beacon for beer enthusiasts and adventurers alike. This family-owned craft brewery is celebrating 25 years this year and they have been pouring innovation and passion into every pint since 1999.
A short 45 minutes by car, or an hour by V/Line train from Melbourne and Bendigo, Holgate is the perfect way to spend a day or the weekend. They have created a homely and unique experience to allow their visitors to enjoy the essence of their on-site craft beer brewing and elevated pub-grub meals. The on-site accommodation allows guests to spend a weekend in a regional paradise or they can stop in for the day.
Holgate Brewery has contributed to the appeal of the local community and has been a significant part of tourism in the small town, due to its exceptional beers, rich history and picturesque landscape all coming together to create an unforgettable experience.
READ: Me That You See by Anne Freeman
Me That You See follows Lexi, a Melbourne barista whose burgeoning relationship with single father, Ethan, is growing cold before it’s had time to sizzle. When a mysterious friend from Lexi’s past emerges in startling circumstances, she glimpses the world of camming. Ditching espressos for the express lane to sexual empowerment and financial freedom, Lexi is lying to everyone, including herself. When Lexi meets Travis, a charming cybercrime cop free from emotional baggage, her new life shapeshifts at a dizzying rate. Lexi becomes ensnared and, this time, no amount of lying can set her free.
Me That You See is a thrilling glimpse into online sex work packaged for book club banter and voyeuristic pleasure. It explores themes of feminism in sex work, living your truth, women supporting women, toxic masculinity, and our desire to connect. It was longlisted in the 2023 Grindstone Literary International Novel Prize and shortlisted in the 2022 Hawkeye Manuscript Development Prize.
Me That You See, Hawkeye Publishing, is on sale now.