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 […]

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
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 […]
The Deck Restaurant
This week I visited The Deck which had been one of my go to restaurants for people looking for a an excellent mid-priced Modern Australian restaurant in the city. The Deck is located in the Southgate complex at Southbank which has undergone and extensive renovation. The Deck has moved from its prime riverfront location to […]