Let's dive into the culinary adventures of renowned British chef Rick Stein, who's been exploring Melbourne's vibrant food scene while filming his new SBS program, "Rick Stein's Australia."
The Fitzroy and Collingwood Food Trail
Stein, a household name in Australia, has been enjoying some well-deserved downtime between takes, and his choices offer a fascinating glimpse into his personal tastes.
The Albion Hotel, Collingwood
A retro pub with a modern twist, The Albion Hotel caught Stein's eye, and he indulged in some classic pub fare, including beef and pork sausage rolls and crumbed fish cakes with a curry aioli twist. The co-owner, Peter Walsh, was delighted to host a culinary legend, noting Stein's friendly demeanor and his appreciation for the fish cakes, which led to a second order.
Jim's Greek Tavern, Collingwood
This chaotic, family-style Greek tavern is a Melbourne icon, and Stein and his wife, Sarah, experienced its unique charm. Sarah described the service as "very gruff," which, in a way, adds to the authenticity of the place. Stein's Instagram post about his experience at Jim's reflects his appreciation for places that divide opinions, knowing they often offer something special.
The Gertrude Hotel, Fitzroy
For a Sunday lunch, Stein opted for a classic British dish, the Sunday roast, at The Gertrude Hotel. The co-owner, Iza Dawkins, was thrilled to host Stein, especially as they had just introduced their Sunday roast special. Stein's choice of a traditional roast, complete with Yorkshire pudding and all the trimmings, showcases his connection to his British roots, even when exploring new cuisines.
The Builders Arms Hotel, Fitzroy
Stein's pub crawl continued at The Builders Arms Hotel, known for its exceptional wine list and refined pub food. Here, Stein and his entourage enjoyed Sydney rock oysters, a pork and pistachio terrine, and a twice-cooked cheese souffle. This choice highlights Stein's appreciation for fine dining within a pub setting, a unique blend of casual and gourmet.
Flower Drum, Melbourne CBD
Stein and Sarah's visit to Flower Drum, the current Restaurant of the Year in The Age Good Food Guide, was a highlight. They indulged in a seafood feast, including Patagonian toothfish and steamed mud crab claw. Stein's praise for Chinese seafood, calling it "light" and "intelligently thought through," showcases his respect for the precision and delicacy of this cuisine.
A Personal Perspective
Personally, I find Stein's choices intriguing. His appreciation for both classic pub food and fine dining showcases a well-rounded palate. From the chaotic charm of Jim's Greek Tavern to the refined offerings at The Builders Arms, Stein's journey through Melbourne's food scene offers a unique insight into his culinary preferences. It's a reminder that even the most renowned chefs seek comfort and adventure in equal measure.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the way Stein's choices reflect his personality. His willingness to explore both well-loved institutions and newer, trendier spots showcases an open-minded approach to food, a trait that many successful chefs embody.
In my opinion, Stein's Melbourne food trail offers a masterclass in culinary exploration, blending tradition with innovation, and I can't wait to see more of his Australian adventures on screen.
