In 1999 Teage Ezard decided to take the giant step of opening his own restaurant and I am so glad he did. For years now Ezard has been a leader in the fine dining scene in Melbourne. Simply put, Ezard consistently rates as one of the best restaurants in town. It’s reputation is well-earned and […]
About James Ridenour
Your man in Melbourne - Local Expert - Worldwide Contacts - Chef Concierge Clefs d'Or at the InterContinental Melbourne The Rialto - Assistant General Secretary Les Clefs d'Or InternationalAuthor Archive | James Ridenour
Children’s Activities in Melbourne
The Collingwood Children’s Farm Situated on 16 acres of land, just 4 kilometres from the centre of Melbourne, the Children’s Farm is a magic place for children and adults alike. Open every day of the year from 9 to 5 PM with daily activities and lots of animals – horses, cows, ducks, pigs, chickens – just […]
Hidden Secrets Lanes and Arcades Walking Tour
Fiona Sweetman loves Melbourne. Several years ago Fiona decided that there might be some interest in a walking tour that focused on what makes Melbourne such a unique and livable city. Fiona was bang on the money and she’s never looked back. Hidden Secrets now do several dynamic tours including a Cafe Culture Walk, Sommeliers […]
Yum Cha at Spice Temple
I recently had the pleasure of enjoying Yum Cha at Spice Temple. To describe it in a word it was exemplary. Spice Temple is Neil Perry’s 3rd Melbourne restaurant and bar (with Rosetta Neil’s 4th restaurant soon to open). The restaurant is located in Melbourne’s Crown Complex and is situated right next to Rockpool Bar and […]
Top 10 Things to do in Vancouver, Canada
As an ex-pat Vancouverite I am proud to be able to share with you my favourite things to do in and around the Vancouver area. I hope you enjoy them as much as I have over the years. Family and friends keep me coming back but the beauty of this incredible city makes it an absolute pleasure. […]
Umberto Espresso Bar
Ciao! Make no mistake, this is my local. I feel like family at Umberto’s, I am welcomed, made to feel at home and even taught a bit of basic Italian. Bellissimo! This is the charm of this modern inner-urban cafe. It has a bit of an old school/old country flair that makes it inviting and […]
Insider’s Video Tour of Melbourne
Come along for a tour of my favourite city and check out some of my favourite places with me.
Lupino Italian Bistro
I had high expectations when visiting Lupino as it is part owned by Richard Lodge, ex-partner in my favourite Italian restaurant Becco. Lupino did not disappoint. Richard was as always the consummate host and what was supposed to be a pasta and a glass of wine turned into a full meal. I am glad I […]
EDV
You can’t get much more Melbourne than this even though the first EDV is in Sydney. Tucked in a Malthouse Lane look for a wood door and brass handle, no sign, no hint, you just have to know. Eau de Vie is all about the cocktail. The homemade ginger beer is awesome, just like […]
Bar Americano
From the guys who brought you Der Raum their newsiest venture is located in Presgrave Place; one of those you have to know where to look lane ways. Don’t let the dumpsters deter. Bar Americano is bound to be Melbourne’s newest in the know cocktail hot spot. Think Italian neighbourhood cocktail haven. Beer is […]
