Help me find ... Tasting Australia 2023 events in the CBD
Tasting Australia has dished up a recipe for success following the launch is its 2023 program.
From intimate dinners with world-class chefs, drinks poured by Australia’s best bartender to parties about all things wine at the iconic Town Square in the heart of the city — there is something for everything at the culinary festival.
Festival Co-Director Karena Armstrong says Tasting Australia, on between 28 April and 7 May 2023, goes beyond the typical food festival.
“Tasting Australia brings life to our city and regions, encouraging people to try something new and celebrate the world class food and beverage experiences on offer in our state,” Ms Armstrong says
“We are proud to highlight every region of South Australia with this program, offering lots of opportunity to explore the regions as well as a range of exciting events to bring people into the CBD and surrounds.”
Town Square returns to Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga with new food vendors and bars to explore and discover. It is free to enter.
Kick off Tasting Australia festivities with Wine! Wine! Party! Party! where revelers can dance the night away as they enjoy wine tasting, Pirate Life brews plus cocktails from Australia’s best bar tender Nick Tesar from Bar Liberty in Melbourne
The Storytellers Series will feature the festival’s top talent, as well as the popular express lunch series for those looking for a world-class lunch on a time limit.
The new Chef’s Table series gives diners a chance to enjoy meals prepared by culinary stars in a purpose built, 20-person space called The Dining Room in Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga. Justin James (Restaurant Botanic), Simon Bryant (Festival Patron), Paul Carmichael (Momofuku Seiobo) and Chae Jung Eun (Chae) are among presenters.
Premier of South Australia Peter Malinauskas expects the festival to make a significant economic impact.
“Tasting Australia is a strong driver of social and economic activity for the state, not only during the event but also year-round – Tasting Australia so wonderfully tells the story of South Australia’s abundant produce and outstanding producers,” Premier Malinauskas says.
“The fact that chefs, producers and drinks makers are coming together to put on events across every corner of the state demonstrates that businesses and producers are hungry for opportunities to showcase the very best that South Australia has to offer.”
Tasting Australia is headed up by Co-directors Karena Armstrong (Salopian Inn) and Darren Robertson (Three Blue Ducks, Byron Bay and Rocker, Bondi) together with Food Curator Emma McCaskill and the newly announced Drinks Curators Meira Harel and Banjo Harris Plane.
The 10-day program includes 150 events across 12 regions, with tickets already on sale.
Experience Adelaide's top picks
Experience Adelaide has studied the program closely (check out some of the foodie pictures and you'll see why) and compiled a list of some of the most exciting CBD experiences during the festival.
Wine Wine Party Party
Overindulge in good food and wine at the Tasting Australia opening night party at Town Square. Max Veenhuyzen, best known as a food and travel writer who moonlights at a DJ, will spin tunes, while you enjoy a Pirate Life brew, or cocktail or two. It is on 28 April between 5:30 pm and 7:30 pm. Cost: $30
The Express Lunch Series
Want a top-notch lunch at Town Square Kitchen, but do not have the time in your meeting-filled day? The Express Lunch series returns to Tasting Australia where $45 gets you a quick fast main course and glass of wine, and you will still make it to your desk to see out the working day. Chefs include Hugh Allen, Tim Hardy, Nornie Bero, Lauren Eldridge, Danielle Guevara and Bethany Finn. The lunches are on between 28 April and May 5. Cost $45.
Tapas and beer at the Merrymaker Rooftop Bar
Local produce is put in the spotlight at this multi-course tapas lunch, paired with beers from Mismatch Brewing Co. City institutions including the Adelaide Central Market, Samtass Seafood, Section 28 Cheese and SheOak Baker will shape the menu. It is on 29 April between noon and 3:30 pm. Cost: $99
Flavours of the Market
Uncover the hidden delights of South Australian produce while soaking up the atmosphere of the iconic Adelaide Central Market. Collect a self-guided tour map and bag then follow the path to find food that tantalises the tastebuds. Self-guided tours include a $10 gift card to spend at the Market. Tours can be booked on Friday 28 April, or selected times between Tuesday 2 May and Friday 5 May. Cost: general admission $15, concession free.
Town Square Kitchen Brunch - Alive
Explore all things alive at this brunch that features ingredients produced only months ago and nurtured for the occasion. Kimchi, ferments and krauts are among the treasures that await. It is on Saturday 2 May at 11:00 am. Cost: $180
Shiraz gin maker session with Ambleside Distiller X The Lane
Harvest shiraz grapes from The Lane Vineyard then crush and steep the fruit into gin to make, you guessed it, a 'shiraz gin'. Watch the masters then have a go yourself. It is on Sunday 30 April from 5:00 pm. Cost: $100.