If you haven't checked out the 2022 A Little Bit of Italy program, what are you waiting for? It really is one of the highlights of the Hunter Valley's annual culinary calendar - and a chance to explore one of the Valley's best-kept secrets, the Broke Fordwich region.
It's A Little Bit of Italy's 16th year, and for the first time you are able to buy a ticket and visit four or more venues. Previously, each venue ran their own program under the festival banner.
"It was decided to make it a progressive festival-like event, so we have a new Festival Starter Kit and people buy their four-winery tasting pass with a take-home glass for $30," a spokesperson said.
"We have an online festival program where people book their starter kit and the time and location of their visits then create and share their itinerary with friends, encouraging them to book the same. Each venue has either live music, food add-ons or both."
In addition to wine and food tastings there are also some special events in this year's program, such as pasta making classes, art and sip, a cocktail making workshop, and an Italian wine masterclass. Keep an eye out for "happy hours", too.
On the website you can browse a list of drivers and tour groups keen to take you from venue to venue across the weekend.
The aim is to get people out and about roaming the lesser-known Broke Fordwich corner of the Valley.
Did you know, for example, that Winmark Wines has an art gallery and a sculpture walk? Or that Mount Broke Wines has a popular pizza restaurant that's open on weekends? Or that Smokin Hot N Saucy has found a second home at Somerville Wines?
Head to brokefordwich.com.au and plan your Broke escape.
Lovedale Bar + Grill
Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley officially launched Lovedale Bar + Grill on Monday night at the former Lovedale Bistro.
The move cherry-picks the best of Lovedale Bistro and "aligns it closer with our key partner in this space, Sydney Brewery Hunter Valley", said Crowne Plaza area general manager Gareth Long.
"We believe this reimagined offering of the Lovedale Bar + Grill positions our resort as the go-to destination for delicious food and drink when visiting wine country."
Chefs Jason Hawker and Phil Atkinson refreshed the food offering with a focus on grills and classic bistro favourites.
"This new menu was inspired by the local region and everything Sydney Brewery Hunter Valley has to offer," executive chef Hawker said.
"It is a very diverse menu, offering the classic favourites along with unique infusions of our on-site craft beers into the food to create some amazing flavours. There is something for everyone with cocktails, share plates, brewery tours, live music and tasting paddles."
Coming to Lovedale
Kim and Michael Starkey of Moyle Family Hotels - who own the Royal Federal Hotel at Branxton and The Stag & Hunter Hotel in Mayfield - are working on a new venture at Lovedale. It's called Jimmy Joans and it's all about "good food, casual beers, cocktails, coffee and good times", says Kim. As for the name, it pays homage to her "amazing grandparents". Definitely one to watch out for but it's still early days.
Cafe has WOW factor
Pegs Cafe in Whitebridge continues to lead by example when it comes to community engagement. Tickets to owner Mel Chapman's second WOW Luncheon on May 1 sold out in a matter of days.
"This is my second 'WOW' since the beginning of the pandemic - it feels so good to be able to host functions again for our fabulous community," she said.
"WOW essentially means 'women of Whitebridge' but of course it is not just limited to those in Whitebridge - it's a catchy acronym that spells a positive word.
"My Pegs community has been amazing during the pandemic and these functions are to celebrate the wonderful women who are my customers; a time for women to connect and have fun. My first WOW was amazing, the vibe was magic, everyone is so relieved and joyful to be able to socialise with friends again."
Festival postponed
The Hunter Valley Gin & Jazz Festival at Hope Estate scheduled for this weekend has been postponed due to forecast rain. The festival will now be held on September 10 and 11. Tickets will be automatically transferred to the new dates. If you are unable to attend, email info@hopeestate.com.au.
Maho Magic Bar
Check out the Maho Magic Bar when you head to The Spiegeltent for Blanc de Blanc Encore over the coming weeks. It's both a bar and entertainment space serving everything from Junmai Daiginjo sake to Umeshu, a refreshing Japanese liqueur made from an infusion of sweet plums and green tea flavouring. Bookings recommended.
Cobettes on menu
In addition to their full-size filled cobs, The Cob Shop at Charlestown now also offers "cobettes" ($18 for three). Choose from: French onion; beef stroganoff; butter chicken; chilli con carne; pasta carbonara; spaghetti bolognese; and satay chicken.
Mother's Day ideas
Newcastle Food & Flower Markets at Sandgate are celebrating Mother's Day on May 8 with a special High Tea.
There is only one sitting - noon to 3pm - so get in quick because this event will sell out.
Tickets are $99 and include a glass of Australian sparkling on arrival, High Tea with tea or coffee, and a surprise for mum. Add any special food requirements into the notes section of your booking at foodandflowermarkets.com.au.
A handful of other venues have also announced Mother's Day events on May 8. There's a brunch with live music and a gift for mum at 48 Watt; a two-course lunch at The Exchange Hotel in Hamilton; lunch at The Sydney Junction; and a garden party at historic Grossmann House in Maitland.
Keep an eye out for more events in the coming weeks.
