In Melbourne, Teage Ezard took Fitzroy's Guernica to many awards before doing the same for his eponymous Flinders Lane restaurant. In Hong Kong, his Opia and Y's, were hugely awarded. In 2006 Ezard launched Gingerboy in Melbourne's Crossley Street before opening BLACK by ezard as part of Sydney's The Star. In July 2015, Ezard opened at Levantine Hill Estate winery and cellar door. See gingerboy.com.au.
WHAT'S YOUR FAVOURITE TABLE IN MELBOURNE?
Attica gets the top spot in Melbourne, thanks to Ben Shewry's unique, bold and uncompromising menu. The flavours and techniques are stand-out, and the dining experience is a truly memorable. The modern Australian fare pushes the boundaries, and dishes are created that will both challenge and blow you away. See attica.com.au.
THE LOCAL FOOD DISCOVERY OF THE PAST YEAR?
Woodland House in Prahran is quite remarkable. The two passionate chefs, Thomas Woods and Hayden McFarland, are both innovative and traditional in their style and are creating something really special. The quality produced by venues like this adds to the high standard and prestige of the Melbourne dining scene. Being so spoilt for choice, this place is one that should be added to the list to visit. Their tasting menu is a real highlight thanks to the careful balance of flavours. See woodlandhouse.com.au.
WHAT IS MELBOURNE'S BEST-KEPT FOOD SECRET?
The croissants from Lune in Scott Street, Elwood. It is unfortunately rare to find a good croissant in Australia, but thankfully these guys most certainly hit the mark. They serve up traditional, buttery pastries that will transport you to Paris in an instant. The perfect croissant. (Lune Elwood is now closed but is reopening in Fitzroy soon.) See lunecroissanterie.com.
PLACE TO GO ON A DAY OFF?
A tour of the very best wineries in the Yarra Valley. To be able to get out of Melbourne for a while and into the fresh air and such a picturesque environment is so important to me. It's a perfect way to unwind, take a deep breath and enjoy some of the best wineries and dining experiences that Australia has to offer. See visityarravalley.com.au.
FAVOURITE INDULGENCE IN MELBOURNE?
I love the stir fried pearl meat at Flower Drum. The dish comprises sliced Western Australian pearl oysters, that are stir fried with spring onions and garlic chives – a truly phenomenal, decadent dish that is completely unique. It's an indulgence you won't forget any time soon. See flowerdrum.melbourne.
WHAT SHOULD A VISITOR AVOID, FOOD-WISE, IN MELBOURNE?
Steer clear of places where you have to queue or line up. Don't do it to yourself. Find a venue where you can book and be guaranteed a table at an appropriate time. To me a queue doesn't necessarily guarantee quality.
