Monday, April 22, 2013

A culinary excursion

Never judge a book by its cover... That's what my Mom always told me, similarly never judge a restaurant by its surrounds/location. It you did this, then you would miss probably one of the most amazing dinning experiences of you'll ever have (well - That's my thoughts, anyway.)

My beautiful friend, Michelle. Had booked a special surprise for me for my 30th Birthday celebration. For months and months we had been talking about a kooky little restaurant we had both be dying to try. I was elated when she told me we were going.

In the car we hoped and drove up to Nelson Bay.

Nelson Bay is a good 2.5 hour drive north of Sydney, If your looking for a great weekend road trip - I suggest you leave on a Friday and stop off along the way at Avoca (Central Coast) then Newcastle, or just head straight up north and enjoy the magnificent surrounds of Port Stephens.

Ritual is a concept restaurant that mixes technology, culinary art, science and passion into a find dining, intimate experience like no other.

When I say intimate, I mean it - only 10 guests dine per night. This enhances the experience, the socialising and the atmosphere.

First thing first, you MUST book in advance - this is not a restaurant where you can just show up and get a table. You can sign up via the website - www.ritualcuisine.com.au There is a questionnaire form to fill out the allows the Chef to gain insight into your taste preference.

When you get there, don't expect a waterfront OTT venue. it is modest and cosy and exceptionally perfect for the concept.

I'm not going to give too much away - but pre-pair to have everything you thought about food, turned on its side. Things are not quite as they seem! And it will be one of the most tasty experience you will ever have! You will water liquid transform into solid in front of your eyes, you will spray heavenly scented mist that tastes like strawberry, you will confuse your brain with fairy-floss that tastes of rosemary and garlic!

Thank you Michelle for this amazing experience!






Monday, April 1, 2013

Life Organic - Food heaven on earth!

Before arriving in Hong Kong I did a small amount of research - searching for Vegan cafes and restaurants. I was told that Hong Kong has some of the best food in the world, so I didn't want to pass up on any opportunity.

As it turns out, I became so incredibly addicted to this one cafe that I didn't have much time to try much else.

So I have dedicated an entire post just to this cafe. I had two breakfasts here, one lunch and two dinners.

Life Organic Cafe

They are Vegetarian and organic but cater for Vegan, Raw and Gluten Free diets.

The food is AMAZING! I was like a little kid in a candy shop - My eyes constantly darting between the other customers dishes as they came out - I wanted to try it all.

Looking over the menu - I was excited to see so many 'V's' next to the food. So many Vegan options. Its refreshing to know that in this menu I can pick from anything and it is Vegetarian, but to know that I have more than 3 Vegan options - blew my mind!

Breakfast - go the Organic Quinoa porridge (Rayns had this and loved it). I'm pretty sure Jarreth had the Croque Madame (just because it had a french name) and devoured it! I went with the Vegan version of the Life Breakfast with Scrambled Tofu! YUM. Cost? $240HKD (which is about $30 AUD for the three of us).

Lunch - I went back by myself and indulged in the Raw Power Zucchini grated carrot, organic pumpkin seed pesto, chinese chives, sun dried & fresh tomato, almond cheese and garlic oil (All ingredients in this dish are raw). Then I followed it up with a sugar free, vegan and gluten free Organic Chocolate Tofu Mousse Cake... I know what you're thinking - What is left to put in it if all the sugar and dairy is taken out... IT IS AMAZING! I would go back to Hong Kong just for this dessert! OH And the steamed lavender soy milk! YUM! (Lunch was about $235HKD - $28AUD)

Dinner - Try the Tea Smoked Eggplant Dip, Sweet Potato Fries with chili & herb salt and roasted garlic tofunaise dip and the Organic Hummus Dip for starters. Then move into a delicious temptation of choices... The vegan Life Organic Burger, salads and stir-fries will all satisfy any rumbling tummies!

Life Organic is located in Soho (I love this part of Hong Kong) but if has recently moved to 50 C Johnston Road Wanchai.

It also has a small 'Deli' take-away section, so - you can eat good food while on the run too!