Latest news with #Roman-style
Los Angeles Times
an hour ago
- Entertainment
- Los Angeles Times
Get a taste of Anaheim Packing District on D23 Night
Since the Anaheim Packing District opened more than 10 years ago, the innovative space has been a model for other food halls and mixed-use spaces. The former 1919 Anaheim Orange and Lemon Assn. Packing House is home to nearly 30 culinary artisans and on the evening of Wednesday, July 16, diners will get the chance to sample a few of them during its annual World Taste event. Conceived as a celebration of the culinary diversity at the Anaheim food hall, World Taste takes place on Anaheim Packing District's D23 Night. In partnership with the official Disney Fan Club, special Disney activities are planned for the evening, including DJ Clark Chuka spinning Disney tracks and tunes at the Packing House and D23 Trivia and a Sip & Sketch at Unsung Brewing, located in the MAKE building. From 5 to 9 p.m. the international tasting event will host these activities alongside tastes from participating culinary artisans within the MAKE, Anaheim Packing House and Farmers Park. One ticket, priced at $49.77, includes seven taste experiences, allowing guests to create their own eat-your-own-adventure menu. This year, the event is also introducing a 'tiny taste' ticket, priced at $28.44 for kids that offers four tastes for smaller appetites. Nearly 20 vendors will participate in World Taste, including Black Sheep Grilled Cheese Bar, serving a sweet and savory Ohana grilled cheese with mozzarella, honey ham and bacon on grilled bread with a side of house made pineapple preserves, and Iron Press, which will be offering loco moco sliders. Guests can also look forward to hand-folded spicy shrimp wantons from 18 Folds and mini samosa chaat stuffed with chickpeas, chutney and cilantro from Adya Indian Flavors. Urbana Mexican Gastronomy will have crispy birria rolls available and ZeroZero 39 Pizzeria Anaheim will serve up Roman-style pizza by the slice. Some vendors will lean into the Disney theme, like Chippy Fish & Grill offering mouse-shaped beignets and Unsung Brewing pouring a poison green apple seltzer. Zabon Ramen and Rolls has 'Finding Carpaccio' on the menu, inspired by Disney Pixar's 'Finding Nemo' and featuring thinly slice yellowtail in yuzu ponzu sauce. The Wooden Pearl, one the newest vendors to join the Anaheim Packing District, will also take part in the event, serving an oyster dish. Open since April with an elevated surf and turf menu, the Wooden Pearl expressed enthusiasm about joining the culinary circle at the packing district. 'It's an honor to join the vibrant and diverse food scene at the Anaheim Packing District. At The Wooden Pearl, we're excited to bring a fresh take on surf and turf that reflects both California's coastal spirit and our love for bold, intentional flavors,' said Dago Caceres, executive chef at the Wooden Pearl. 'We're proud to be part of what makes this community so dynamic.' Other eateries serving bites for the event include 206 BCE, Georgia's Soul Food, the Kroft, Le Parfait Paris, Mini Monster, Pique-Nique, Mangal Mediterranean and Pali Wine Co. The Anaheim Packing District 6th annual World Taste event will take place on Wednesday, July 16 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Anaheim Packing District at 440 S. Anaheim Blvd. For tickets and additional info, visit
FACT
23-06-2025
- Business
- FACT
38 exciting new restaurants opening in Dubai this year
Dubai's dining scene is about to get a whole lot tastier. Dubai's restaurant scene is thriving, with each new opening promising a unique gastronomic experience for the city. From traditional Italian offerings at Antonia to a jubilant Japanese izakaya experience at Zuma Beachhouse, there's something for everyone. And that's just the beginning. Read on to discover the new Dubai restaurants that should be on your dining radar in 2025 (and beyond). Much like its popular outposts in Abu Dhabi, Antonia is bringing its signature Roman-style flair to Mall of the Emirates. Expect trays of traditional Pizza Al Taglio, served in rectangular slices with a variety of tempting toppings. In true Italian fashion, it's all about casual bites, and no cutlery is required. Antonia's specialises in Pizza Al Taglio — traditional Roman-style pizza served by the slice. Trays of rectangular pizza are artfully topped with options such as Margherita, Diavola, Quattro Formaggi, Ortolana, and Gricia. Beyond the pizza counter, the menu spans antipasti, handmade pastas (including gluten-free options), fresh salads, and indulgent desserts. Whether it's your first visit or your fiftieth, Antonia promises a slice of la dolce vita — with a family legacy baked into every bite. Expected opening: 2025 TBC Two of Dubai's most popular homegrown heavyweights — Canary Club and The MAINE — are bringing a double-dose of coastal cool to Club Vista Mare this October. The new Palm Jumeirah destination will feature two adjoining beach club venues: the laid-back West Coast-inspired Canary Beach and the refined East Coast-style The MAINE Palm. Expect four distinct dining spaces, multiple lounge bars, seaside terraces, beach beds, and cabanas. On the culinary front, each concept brings its signature hits with a beach-ready twist. Expect crudos, ceviches, and sushi signatures from Canary Beach while The MAINE Palm delivers on its raw bar classics, grilled meats, and a fresh crop of seasonal plates. GO: Follow @canaryclubdxb or @themainedxb on Instagram for more information Carbone New York's Carbone is set to open its doors in Dubai at Atlantis The Royal in early 2025. The celebrity favourite will take over the space previously occupied by Resonance by Heston Blumenthal on the ground floor of the beachfront hotel. While the specific menu for the Dubai outpost hasn't been revealed, fans can definitely look forward to indulging in Carbone's signature Spicy Rigatoni. Other favourites such as Chicken Scarpariello, Linguini Vongole, Seafood Salad, and Veal Parmesan are also expected to grace the menu along with more of the American-Italian cuisine that has made Carbone so famous. Expected opening: 2025 TBC Chotto Matte Opening its doors in early 2025, Chotto Matte will find a home at The Ritz-Carlton, DIFC. This addition promises to bring the best of Nikkei cuisine – a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavours – to Dubai. Based on its offerings in other cities, you can expect the likes of sushi, raw plates, and robata grill. These will include favourites such as Jumbo Prawn Tempura, Wagyu Beef Gyoza, Black Cod Aji Miso and much more. Desert lovers are in for a treat as well, with Matcha Crepe Cake, Mochi Ice Cream, and more items on the menu. Expected opening: 2025 TBC Hold on to your sombrero. The Mexican-born chef Jonathan Colin has announced the opening of his new restaurant, El Primo. Located in Al Wasl, the taqueria will bring to life the food, fun and festivities of Mexico City. The venue aims to offer no-frills, but a whole lot of heart, with comfort food and comforting vibes. The design and décor will offer a laid-back 1980s experience, and the interiors will include red and white tiling. Jonathan draws inspiration from traditional tacos in Mexico and is behind the successful K'IIN Supperclub in Dubai. Expected opening: 2025 TBC Felicità Dubai is bringing the taste of Italy to the UAE. Located in Address Sky View in Downtown Dubai, it aims to celebrate the best of Italian cuisine. The full menu has not yet been unveiled. So far, we know that it will include pasta recipes from families (and, of course, nonnas), which have been passed down through the generations. The menu will put Southern Italian food in the spotlight – so we are expecting plenty of pasta and pizza. Expected opening: 2025 TBC Set to open in Dubai Marina, Fire Water Burn isn't positioning itself as a traditional restaurant. Nor is it a club in the conventional, velvet-rope sense. Instead, it's carving out its own niche as a space where mood, music, and mystery converge. The interiors echo this unconventional spirit. Think rustic elegance with a rebellious twist: raw concrete walls embossed with the cryptic initials FWB, softened by warm wooden finishes and dim, moody lighting. As for the menu? It's still under wraps. But with a name like Fire Water Burn, we're imagining a focus on smoky grills, fire-kissed dishes, and drinks that play with the elements Expected opening: 2025 TBC Gusto Restaurant and Bar will be opening with a gusto in Dubai. Located in Burj Daman, the new concept will put Italian food in the spotlight. The opening date for Gusto Restaurant has not yet been confirmed. The name refers to carrying out an action with enjoyment and enthusiasm, and it has got us excited about what to expect from the restaurant. On Gusto's website, the tagline reads 'Indulge in the flavours of Italy'. On Gusto's Instagram, the tagline reads: 'Where elegance meets indulgence'. The restaurant's full menu has not yet been unveiled. As it draws inspiration from Italy, we expect pizzas, pastas, and more. Gusto Restaurant will be located in Burj Daman in DIFC. Expected opening: 2025 TBC Gymkhana Gymkhana has made a name for itself as one of the finest Indian restaurants in the world – and now, it's making its debut in Dubai. Originally launched in London and with an outpost in Riyadh, the celebrated concept is preparing to open its doors in the landmark location of DIFC. The restaurant draws its inspiration from the gymkhana clubs of colonial India and is renowned for its refined take on classic Indian cuisine. The menu features biriyanis, curries, kebabs, sabzis and tikkas. Plus, FACT favourites such as the Chettinad Duck Dosa with Coconut Chutney and Kid Goat Methi Keema with Salli and Pao Expected opening: 2025 TBC KIGO Get ready for an unparalleled culinary journey as Kigo, the new Japanese omakase restaurant, is set to open in Four Seasons DIFC. The chefs will showcase their mastery of the art of omakase, using only the freshest seasonal ingredients to create a one-of-a-kind culinary experience. Kigo is another concept from Izu Ani and Evgeny Kuzin's Fundamental Hospitality Group. Expected opening: 2025 TBC Chef Gregoire Berger, previously the head chef of Ossiano, is opening a new restaurant on Al Wasl Road called Kraken. The website for Kraken in Dubai is currently teasing guests. The video shows waves lapping back and forth, and the line 'the deep calls.' The tag line is: 'Unapologetic. Bold. Redefining the sea', and implies that we can expect a seafood-driven menu with a difference. Expected opening: 2025 TBC LAVITA Beach House LAVITA Beach House is set to become the ultimate destination for sun-soaked days and lively nights at One Palm Jumeirah Dorchester Collection. The club boasts stunning views of Palm Jumeirah, making it a prime location. The concept draws its inspiration from Italy's glamorous coastal lifestyle and will feature live music and entertainment, ranging from local performers to international acts. La Vita comes from the team behind the FACT Award-winning Chic Nonna and L'Amo Bistro del Mare. Expected opening: 2025 TBC Set within Kempinski The Boulevard, Mamabella promises to transport diners straight to the sun-drenched shores of Sardinia. More than just another Italian restaurant, Mamabella draws inspiration from the laid-back charm of Sardinian villages, offering a Mediterranean escape amid the buzz of Downtown Dubai. Although the full menu remains under wraps, diners can expect a celebration of Sardinia's culinary identity. Handmade pastas, fresh seafood, and ingredients infused with wild herbs are just the beginning. Think dishes that highlight tradition while embracing Dubai's appetite for rustic refinement. Expected opening: 2025 TBC If you're a middle child, you'll know all about Middle Child Syndrome. Chef Lynn Hazim has decided to own the phrase and use it as a source of inspiration for her latest venture, Middle Child. Located in Alserkal Avenue, the concept will include a restaurant, a cookbook shop and a grocer. Lynn is a Beirut-born, Dubai-based foodie. She recently shared an image on Instagram. The shot showed her in front of the hoarding, and the sketch outside shows what the space will look like inside. So far, it shows a long table, seats in a line and a kitchen at the back of the venue. Expected opening: 2025 TBC Monte-Carlo Club 1863 Restaurant Are you feeling lucky? Dubai is set to welcome a touch of Monte Carlo, courtesy of Monte-Carlo Club 1863. Opening in autumn 2025, the restaurant showcases the city state's cuisine, and here's what to expect. Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer is behind the expansion of the Monte-Carlo Club 1863. The company has been in operation for over 160 years. Its hotel portfolio includes Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo and Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo. Expected opening: 2025 TBC When you visit the South African restaurant Nooa, it's common to see queues around the block. Located in Riyadh, it is now expanding in the Middle East, with locations opening from Doha to Dubai. Nooa stands for Naturally Out Of Africa, and draws its inspiration from South Africa. The all-day dining menu includes buns, breads, earth bowls, finger food, sharing dishes, signature plates and sides. Plus, the desserts are decadent and include Date Malva Pudding, Honeybush Crème Brulee and Orange and Chocolate Cake. Expected opening: 2025 TBC Scott's Dubai Scott's has made a name for itself in London. The long-running restaurant, famous for its spectacular seafood, is located in Mayfair and Richmond. Now, it will be expanding and opening between Babylon and Zuma in DIFC. In 1851, the concept started as an oyster warehouse by the fishmonger John Scott. The brand evolved into Scott's Oyster Rooms and a seafood restaurant. In 1967, it moved to Mount Street, Mayfair, and is famous for its fine-dining British fish and shellfish dishes and A-list clientele. Expected opening: 2025 TBC Suelo The taste of Spain is coming to the UAE. The new restaurant Suelo will open in Dubai and aims to bring fine flavours to the city. The restaurant can already be found in Paris, France, and has a firm following of foodies. The concept showcases dishes from the Mediterranean and places an emphasis on Spanish cuisine. While the Suelo Dubai menu has not yet been unveiled, the original menu spans starters, salads, signature dishes, sides and desserts. Signature dishes include a Seared Red Mullet Fillet, Piquillo Peppers with tuna, and Wagyu Bikini. Plus, the desserts include Basque Cheesecake, Chocolate Fondant, and Churros with salted butter and caramel sauce. Expected opening: 2025 TBC Tattu Dubai Dubai is a magnet for international restaurants, from celebrity chefs to big brands. Now, it is set to welcome Tattu from London, which will be opening inside the world's tallest hotel: Ciel Tower. The menu spans starters, mains and desserts. Starters include Sugar Salt Crispy Squid, Truffle Shiitake Bao Bun, and Wagyu Beef Dumpling. Mains include Balsamic Teriyaki Salmon, Kung Po Tofu and Wok Fried Angry Bird. Desserts range from Asian Pear Sticky Toffee Pudding to Yuzu Lemon Drop. Expected opening: 2025 TBC Chef Neha Mishra is a homegrown success story in the UAE. She is behind one of the country's most successful Japanese restaurants, Kinoya. Now, she has teamed with Atelier House Hospitality and is launching a new Japanese temaki concept called Tezukuri in the third quarter of 2025. The concept aims to offer an interactive dining experience, and guests can interact with chefs during meal preparation. The menu will feature freshly prepared temaki, which preserves the flavour and texture. Neha has confirmed that this will not resemble her debut restaurant, Kinoya. Plus, there will be a speakeasy bar called Kissa, which will feature a specialised cocktail program. Expected opening: 2025 TBC Three Bros Bistro Orfali Bros has been hitting the headlines and winning awards for its creative cuisine. Now, the three brothers from Syria are creating a new concept, Three Bros Bistro. The restaurant is behind the same team that created Orfali Bros, and if the original concept is anything to go by, the UAE's food fans and restaurant critics are in for a culinary treat. The restaurant will be located in Wasl 51 in Dubai, which is also the location of the original restaurant. The name, Three Bros Bistro, suggests that the family will be at the heart of the restaurant and that it will bring to life bistro vibes. The original concept was created by the brothers, Mohammad, Wassim and Omar Orfali. Expected opening: 2025 TBC Dubai is home to out-of-this-world restaurants, from homegrown concepts to celebrity chefs. Now, it is set to welcome the futuristic dining experience, Woohoo. Set to open soon in Kempinski The Boulevard in Downtown Dubai, it will bring together innovation across food and technology. The concept draws inspiration from artificial intelligence and human creativity, utilising these elements as tools to shape the experience. The team aims to engage all your senses throughout the restaurant. Expect menus created by chefs as well as AI that combine Japanese, Mexican and Peruvian dishes. Expected opening: 2025 TBC Dubai is home to cuisines from around the world, from big brands to homegrown concepts. Now, it is set to welcome the Japanese restaurant, Yubi Handroll Bar. Seven Management has collaborated with acclaimed chef Reif Othman for the restaurant, which will be located on 25 Jump Street. The UAE's first homegrown handroll bar aims to offer Japanese cuisine in a simple yet versatile form, serving hand rolls, a type of sushi made by wrapping seaweed around rice and fillings. As the name suggests, these sushi creations are meant to be eaten by hand. Expected opening: 2025 TBC Jondal Dubai Dubai is home to a range of restaurants, from Michelin-starred venues to celebrity chefs. Now, 111 Management is bringing a new concept to the city. Jondal can already be found in Ibiza, Spain, and the restaurant specialises in seafood. Chef Rafael Zafra is at the helm of the restaurant. He was born in Seville and first started working in restaurants when he was 16 years old. Jondal in Ibiza's menu is divided up into from the sea, specials from the sea, caviar specials, meat and sides. Specials include Mediterranean Sea Cucumber with noisette, Sting Raw with pickles and fresh herbs, and Whole Octopus A La Gallega. Meats include Cured Rubia Gallega, Grilled Suckling Lamb Chops, and Wagyu Carpaccio with foie and parmesan. Expected opening: 2026 TBC Known for its fusion of Mediterranean flavours with Asian influences, Novikov Beach promises a refined yet immersive coastal escape from the hustle and bustle of Dubai. Located at the upcoming Gran Melia La Mer, Novikov Beach will feature a chic and sophisticated lounge experience for all guests. Expect cosy day beds, a pool offering breathtaking vistas of the sea and direct access to the beach where you can dip your toes. Once open, this beach club is set to become a go-to destination for those looking to unwind in style. Expected opening: 2026 TBC Park Chinois will be expanding from the United Kingdom to the United Arab Emirates. The original restaurant can be found in Mayfair, London, and it will now be opening in Gran Meliá Dubai. The restaurant will take over the rooftop space, and guests will be able to see views of the sun and sea. Park Chinois prides itself on offering high-end Chinese cuisine. While the menu for Park Chinois in Dubai has not yet been unveiled, the menu in London is available for lunch and dinner, spanning dim sum, duck, meat, fish and seafood and draws inspiration from 1930s Shanghai. Expected opening: 2026 TBC A Moroccan restaurant hailing from France, Salama is one of the latest names gearing up to join Dubai's burgeoning food scene. With roots in Cannes and Saint Tropez, the restaurant's decor will feature a sophisticated fusion of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean influences. While classic dishes such as The Bride's Fingers and Chicken Pastilla are sure to delight those looking for a taste of tagine and Moroccan spices. With excitement already building, Mohamed Hedi Mardassi, the founder of Holdmar Group, has been vocal about his plans to bring the restaurant to Dubai this year. Expected opening: 2026 TBC Zuma Dubai Beachhouse Located adjacent to the Gran Melia Dubai, there's no doubt that Zuma Dubai Beachhouse will be a buzzing lifestyle hub for those seeking some downtime in the city. With a resident DJ on the deck and comfy day beds by the pool, this venue will also boast a lounge and a bar, along with a 140-metre-long beachfront with views of the Arabian Gulf. As expected, no Zuma experience is complete without some food, so prepare to be treated to an izakaya menu at this coastal location. Zuma Dubai Beachhouse will be open for lunch and pool bookings every single day. Expected opening: 2026 TBC Cazibeli Bringing Turkish cuisine to the forefront at Gran Meliá Dubai Jumeirah, Cazibeli is a homegrown concept inspired by the sofra tradition. Expect communal, family-style dining with decor that blends Arabic and Art Deco. With a bistro area, a bar, a show kitchen and an alfresco shisha lounge with stunning vistas, your evenings are about to reach new heights. Expected opening: 2027 TBC Rubia Gallega Already a favourite at Expo City, Rubia Gallega is making its move to the coast. The Spanish steakhouse celebrates Galician beef in all its marbled glory, paired with a curated wine list. Expect bold flavours, beautiful cuts, and a sleek, sophisticated setting when it opens at Gran Meliá Dubai Jumeirah. Expected opening: 2027 TBC Crazy Horse Dubai Dubai, a new sultry show is coming to the city. Crazy Horse from Paris will be making its debut in the region. Bringing together dance, music and a whole lot of fun. Crazy Horse in Paris has a long history, which is more than 70 years old. The original venue has welcomed a range of famous performers, including Dita Von Teese and Carmen Electra. Visitors can expect acrobats, live music and entertainment. While the location for Crazy Horse in Dubai has not yet been confirmed, it has opened across the world. Today, the signature show is Totally Crazy!, which brings together 90 minutes of fun and fantasy. The show opens with dancers in British-inspired royal guard uniforms, as they dance to a take of the British national anthem. Expected opening: TBC Cyrano Cyrano is a charming eatery that has travelled from the bustling streets of Gemmayze in Beirut to Dubai World Trade Centre. Offering a laid-back atmosphere, this casual all-day restaurant transforms from a wholesome brunch spot to a stylish cocktail bar by night. Its menu features a range of hearty and wholesome dishes, perfect for any time of day. Expected opening: TBC IT Restaurant Get ready for a new dining destination that promises to be a hit – IT Restaurant. This global brand is known for its chic interiors, soulful music, and exceptional Mediterranean cuisine. With locations in party hotspots around the world, such as Ibiza, London, Mykonos and Tulum, IT restaurant is set to bring its signature vibe to East Park in Dubai. Expected opening: TBC La Môme La Môme, the upscale Cannes-born restaurant and cocktail bar, is set to open in Dubai's East Park. The venue promises Art Deco interiors, an exquisite menu curated by Chef Julian Cazalas, and music that will transform your dinner into a dancing party – a must-visit for any foodie and party-goer. Expected opening: TBC Mr Porter Mr Porter, the popular steakhouse from Amsterdam and Barcelona, is set to open in Dubai's East Park. The concept is a blend of a modern steakhouse and a trendy lounge, with a lively atmosphere that highlights the music, mixology, and menu. Get ready for a fun dining experience. Expected opening: TBC Shoku Get ready for the ultimate Japanese dining experience as chef Nic Watt, co-founder of the acclaimed ROKA, brings Shoku to Dubai. This upcoming restaurant at Dubai's East Park promises to embody the spirit of Japanese cuisine, featuring the freshest ingredients and masterful techniques. With Nic's impressive background, expect nothing less than a top-notch dining experience. Expected opening: TBC Sobremesa Sobremesa is opening in Souk Al Bahar, serving Spanish cuisine and cocktails. Sobremesa translates literally to upon the table. The idea comes from the Spanish tradition of relaxing after a meal, and letting the conversation (and cocktails) flow freely. So, instead of being turned away once you've finished your food, you'll be encouraged to stay. Sobremesa's food menu draws inspiration from Mexican and Spanish recipes. The drink's menu has been created in partnership with El Copitas Bar, which is a bar in Saint Petersburg, Russia. The Mexican bar is known for its collection of spirits and creative cocktails. For five years in a row, it has featured on the World's 50 Best Bars list. To add to the atmosphere, in the evening, there will be live music inspired by mariachi bands and carnivals. Expected opening: 2025 TBC Tavolina Get ready to indulge in a taste of Italy with the arrival of a new trattoria in Dubai. This charming eatery, originally from Beirut, promises a laid-back atmosphere with warm hospitality at East Park. Enjoy traditional Italian dishes cooked to perfection, served with a smile by a team of welcoming staff. The perfect spot for a casual meal with friends and family. Expected opening: TBC
Sydney Morning Herald
22-06-2025
- Business
- Sydney Morning Herald
Torquay's favourite sandwich bar is moving, but it's good news for fans of carbs
There's more to love at the new Mortadeli, including carbonara-inspired breakfast wraps, Roman pizza slices and new snacks for afternoon drinks. Plus, a new cafe nearby has an all-Australian menu led by jaffles. Torquay's smash-hit sandwich bar Mortadeli has carved out a name for itself as a destination for carb lovers since opening in 2021. Not only were its meatball sandwiches and deli goods a lure, but an added pasta bar located just steps away opened up more ways to enjoy the Euro-tinged good life. But running a three-in-one business and keeping both cafe and restaurant hours took its toll on owner Jake Cassar. Mortadeli 3.0, opening Tuesday, is a leaner machine, taking the best parts of the business and rolling them into a single venue open until early evening. 'We want it to be like the bars you see in Italy,' says Cassar. 'Come in the morning to have your espresso and a pastry, and come back at lunchtime for a sandwich or a bowl of pasta.' The space that was the deli and pasta bar is being reconfigured, with the deli being scaled back (no more meat sliced to order, sadly). The sandwich bar is being moved from the smaller shop across the piazza into this space. One roof, one menu, one kitchen, with current chef Louella Lacaden remaining. The current roster of sandwiches will be available, kicking off with American-style breakfast buns and hearty baked bean melts before lunch sangers, including the signature Maltese hobz-biz-zejt, roll out. The new daytime menu is broader, with soups, salads, house-made pasta, one-off sangers and sweets rotating month to month. For opening, there's pumpkin, chickpea and pasta soup, a grain salad with pomegranate and yoghurt, rigatoni bolognese, and spaghetti cacio e pepe. Roman-style pizza by the slice is also planned. New breakfast items include piadina – the flatbread from Emilia-Romagna – filled with scrambled eggs, guanciale, pepper, parmesan and rocket; it's a riff on carbonara. Ham and bechamel arancini and other fried Mediterranean items (including Maltese pastizzi) are there for afternoon spritzes and wines, or while-you-wait snacking for anyone getting takeaway sandwiches. Cassar is sad to see the pasta bar go but excited about the next chapter. 'That was fun, we did that for two years. Now, let's do something else.' Keep an eye out for one-off events, DJ sets, courtyard barbecues and the launch of catering in the former sandwich shop space. Breakfast and lunch daily; drinks and snacks Fri-Sat. Between Torquay and Geelong, Booln Booln is a gum tree-fringed cafe for road trippers to put on their radar. With a menu that spotlights First Nations ingredients, it's the first venue of Troy and Cerisa Benjamin, founders of tea company Blak Brews. Since 2023, they've been creating cuppas featuring kakadu plum, quandong, desert lime and other native Australian ingredients. 'Having our own space [is] like turning the page on a brand-new chapter,' says Troy. The cafe is part of the Wathaurong Booln Booln Cultural Centre, which is set on bushland with a wildlife sanctuary attached.
The Age
22-06-2025
- Business
- The Age
Torquay's favourite sandwich bar is moving, but it's good news for fans of carbs
There's more to love at the new Mortadeli, including carbonara-inspired breakfast wraps, Roman pizza slices and new snacks for afternoon drinks. Plus, a new cafe nearby has an all-Australian menu led by jaffles. Torquay's smash-hit sandwich bar Mortadeli has carved out a name for itself as a destination for carb lovers since opening in 2021. Not only were its meatball sandwiches and deli goods a lure, but an added pasta bar located just steps away opened up more ways to enjoy the Euro-tinged good life. But running a three-in-one business and keeping both cafe and restaurant hours took its toll on owner Jake Cassar. Mortadeli 3.0, opening Tuesday, is a leaner machine, taking the best parts of the business and rolling them into a single venue open until early evening. 'We want it to be like the bars you see in Italy,' says Cassar. 'Come in the morning to have your espresso and a pastry, and come back at lunchtime for a sandwich or a bowl of pasta.' The space that was the deli and pasta bar is being reconfigured, with the deli being scaled back (no more meat sliced to order, sadly). The sandwich bar is being moved from the smaller shop across the piazza into this space. One roof, one menu, one kitchen, with current chef Louella Lacaden remaining. The current roster of sandwiches will be available, kicking off with American-style breakfast buns and hearty baked bean melts before lunch sangers, including the signature Maltese hobz-biz-zejt, roll out. The new daytime menu is broader, with soups, salads, house-made pasta, one-off sangers and sweets rotating month to month. For opening, there's pumpkin, chickpea and pasta soup, a grain salad with pomegranate and yoghurt, rigatoni bolognese, and spaghetti cacio e pepe. Roman-style pizza by the slice is also planned. New breakfast items include piadina – the flatbread from Emilia-Romagna – filled with scrambled eggs, guanciale, pepper, parmesan and rocket; it's a riff on carbonara. Ham and bechamel arancini and other fried Mediterranean items (including Maltese pastizzi) are there for afternoon spritzes and wines, or while-you-wait snacking for anyone getting takeaway sandwiches. Cassar is sad to see the pasta bar go but excited about the next chapter. 'That was fun, we did that for two years. Now, let's do something else.' Keep an eye out for one-off events, DJ sets, courtyard barbecues and the launch of catering in the former sandwich shop space. Breakfast and lunch daily; drinks and snacks Fri-Sat. Between Torquay and Geelong, Booln Booln is a gum tree-fringed cafe for road trippers to put on their radar. With a menu that spotlights First Nations ingredients, it's the first venue of Troy and Cerisa Benjamin, founders of tea company Blak Brews. Since 2023, they've been creating cuppas featuring kakadu plum, quandong, desert lime and other native Australian ingredients. 'Having our own space [is] like turning the page on a brand-new chapter,' says Troy. The cafe is part of the Wathaurong Booln Booln Cultural Centre, which is set on bushland with a wildlife sanctuary attached.
Boston Globe
20-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Boston Globe
School's out. Kid-friendly places to grab food? Definitely in.
Always my go-to recommendation when people are looking for sit-down Mexican that isn't stuffy or overpriced: This stylish retreat from the team behind the Tenoch taqueria chain strikes an easy family-friendly balance: part nice-night-out and fast-and-tasty. There's a vast tequila bar, smooth margaritas, and sea bass in a spicy tomato sauce — but familiar standbys like steak tacos and mini chicken enchiladas, too. Service is warm and welcoming. 35 Salem St., Medford, Get Starting Point A guide through the most important stories of the morning, delivered Monday through Friday. Enter Email Sign Up Sign up for Parenting Unfiltered. Globe staff Advertisement #mc_embed_signup{background:#fff; clear:left; font:14px Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif; } /* Add your own Mailchimp form style overrides in your site stylesheet or in this style block. We recommend moving this block and the preceding CSS link to the HEAD of your HTML file. */ Subscribe * indicates required E-mail * This ever-lovable local bistro from the friendly folks behind Forage in Cambridge serves whimsical dishes with local ingredients that appeal to all ages. Kids get their own menu (do the chocolate-chip pancakes at brunch), plus fun mocktails; adults can nibble mushroom toast and pork ribs. And maple-candied, house-cured bacon transcends generations. 566 High St., Dedham, Wandering the South End and just want an old-fashioned (but slightly sophisticated) slice of pizza? Gary's is the solution: This new pizzeria from the team behind high-end spots like Mistral and Ostra serves fat, Roman-style squares with creative toppings — spring asparagus, fig — but also simple, kid-friendly versions like pepperoni, plus homemade ice-cream sandwiches. 1744 Washington St., Boston, Advertisement At Gary's Pizza, a box of four different pizzas. Suzanne Kreiter/Globe Staff Strolling the Seaport — and not feeling spendy? Then grab a shaded picnic table and slurp oysters while your kids frolic at this urban, al fresco spin on the Duxbury oyster farm, with food from Row 34 chef Jeremy Sewall: fish and chips, shrimp tacos, crabcakes, and an appropriately mellow vibe. It's open from 11 a.m. daily, and if you stay late enough, there's half-priced sushi on weekdays. 99 Autumn Lane, Boston, A vast menu (wings, sliders poutine); beer for the grown-ups; plenty of al fresco space to roam with easy access to pickleball courts and a skate park — and just a few steps from Old Navy? This new addition to Arsenal Yards has something for young and old, and the online ordering system streamlines the whole experience. 102 Arsenal Yards Blvd., Watertown, The exterior of Mighty Squirrel Brewing Co. in Watertown. Brett Phelps for The Boston Globe A sunny, friendly refuge amid the frenzy of Fenway, ideal for a pre- or post-baseball pit stop, with an approachable menu that focuses on chicken (sliders, fried, platters, tenders, lots of fun sauces) as well as burgers and bowls and an admirably large zero-proof drinks menu. They even take reservations. Plus: a patio! 201 Brookline Ave., Boston, Meat master Andy Husbands is rapidly expanding his barbecue empire. The newest location is in Chelmsford, with other new spots in Methuen and Woburn. The brisket is tender; the service is speedy; and there's a full kids' menu (and a helpfully marked allergen menu, too). Also: whiskey for parents. Various locations, Advertisement Kara Baskin can be reached at
