Did you know that Australia is the largest producer of black truffles outside of Europe, and the third-largest producer in the world behind France and Spain? So it’s no wonder the Truffle Melbourne festival is back for its eighth consecutive year, with a bigger lineup than ever. Truffle is famous for costing a pretty penny, with a kilo of the stuff retailing at about $2500 and a single truffle going for $60-$80. So this is your chance to live in the fast lane and enjoy a taste of these decadent beauties from just $8.
Taking place over Saturday 10 July and Sunday 11 July, the festival is the largest of its kind outside of Europe. It’ll take up J and K sheds at Queen Victoria Market, and be filled with truffles to try, cooking demonstrations to watch, a Truffle bar, live music and—wait for it—mock truffle searches with truffle-hunting dogs.
Cooking demonstrations from Melbourne’s prestigious chefs Guy Grossi (Grossi Florentino) and Rob Kaboord (Chancery Lane) will be taking centre stage. Known for their refined, opulent and traditional European food, these two are perfect for the occasion. They’ll also be joined by Elbert Chang from Pinchy’s and Angus Cadden from Park Street Pasta and Wine.
Over at the Truffle Melbourne Bar, you can treat yourself to a truffle espresso martini, truffle Bloody Mary or a truffle-infused gin and tonic. There will also be truffle beers and ciders up for grabs. For food, there will be plenty of familiar favourites from the likes of That’s Amore, Left Bank and Primo Pizza, each offering dishes that have been enhanced with a touch of truffle—we’re talking truffled mac and cheese, truffle fries, truffle paella, truffle burgers, truffle cannoli, truffle pasta served from a Parmesan wheel, truffle four cheese gnocchi, you get the picture: everything is truffled.
Entry is free and it all goes down on Saturday 10 July from 9am-5pm, and Sunday 11 July from 9am until 4pm. Plan ahead for transport, because this year they’re also selling truffle-inoculated trees that you can take home and plant.
For now, fulfill your foodie dream with the Westin and Maker & Monger High Cheese.
Image credit: supplied