I feel like it’s been awhile since we’ve really seen a dining series of this size and scale. Given the popularity of annual events like Good Food Month, it’s a surprise we’ve had to wait this long for a new program of food and drink events to dance around Australia’s capital cities and elevate the food industry.
It’s perfect timing, after all. South Australia is about to bring in Australia’s first-ever Michelin Guide in October (read our round-up of the best new restaurants in Adelaide to get prepared). And that’s just the start of a substantial transformation, as Australia’s exceptional dining is showcased around the world.
Beloved lifestyle brand Entertainment has launched its inaugural Dining Decadence Series, a month-long program of limited-edition dining events celebrating Australian and New Zealand hospitality throughout August.
The series marks the evolution of the brand from its origins as the Entertainment Book, first launched in 1994, to its current dining and experiences app, with a collection of exclusive events spanning Sydney, Melbourne, the Gold Coast, Adelaide and Auckland.
Entertainment Members will receive early access to tickets at a discounted rate before general public sales.
Each event has been developed in partnership with local restaurants and venues, with bespoke menus highlighting seasonal produce, regional wine and local culinary traditions.
“Food has always been about more than what’s on the plate. It’s how we connect, celebrate, share stories and create memories,” said Heidi Halson, CEO of The Entertainment Group.
“We created Dining Decadence Month as a celebration of an industry we’ve been privileged to support for more than three decades. Dining Decadence is our tribute to that legacy and our love letter to the hospitality industry across Australia and New Zealand.”
The line-up includes An Exclusive Evening in Greece at Meltemi Mediterrania on the Gold Coast on 11 August, where guests can expect a traditional Greek banquet accompanied by live music, dancing, premium Greek wines and the customary plate smashing.
In South Australia, Howard Vineyards will host An Exclusive Afternoon in the Hills on 15 August, featuring a four-course lunch showcasing Adelaide Hills produce paired with estate wines, guided by General Manager and Head Winemaker Tom Northcott.
Melbourne’s Farmers Daughters will present A Celebration of Duck, Truffle and Pinot on 21 August, with a three-course menu centred on Gippsland duck, seasonal winter produce and Victorian wines.
The series will conclude in Auckland on 29 August with an event at Everybody Eats, the charitable restaurant known for transforming rescued food into pay-what-you-can meals. The evening will feature a three-course menu built entirely from rescued seasonal produce, with proceeds supporting the organisation’s work tackling food waste, food insecurity and social isolation.
Entertainment says the Dining Decadence Series celebrates the chefs, producers, winemakers and hospitality operators that have shaped its three-decade relationship with Australia’s dining scene. Over the years, the company has partnered with a broad range of restaurants, from neighbourhood institutions to acclaimed fine dining venues, including Jacques Reymond Restaurant, Catalina, Otto, Pilu, Berowra Waters Inn, Nel and Est.
Tickets for the Dining Decadence Series are available throughout August, with Entertainment Members receiving priority access and member pricing before general release.
