A plate of something mouthwatering, a glass of something refreshing and an enchanting setting – sounds like a perfect combination to us! Ideal for couples wanting to enjoy the finer things in life, there are plenty of wonderful gourmet festivals to check out across Australia and New Zealand in 2019. Hungry for a terrific experience? Don’t miss these delightful offerings and be sure to bring your appetite…
Related article: Unmissable events for your 2019 calendar
Tasting Australia, SA – April 5-14
Described by Fodor’s Travel as one of the world’s best culinary events, Tasting Australia is one seriously brilliant festival. Held for ten days across South Australia’s captivating landscapes, the gastronomic extravaganza will feature everything from pop-up restaurants led by world-renowned chefs to gin blending experiences with acclaimed distillers.
Adventure-seekers, there’s also plenty on the 2019 programme to keep you entertained. Help catch and cook your own squid in an exciting sea-faring journey or mix a surfing safari with gourmet cuisine in the Yorke Peninsula. Want more? There’ll also be chartered flights to Kangaroo Island, the Barossa and oyster-wonderland Coffin Bay available, plus a romantic epicurean flotilla on the Murray River.
The Curated Plate, QLD – August 8-11
Sure to be a highlight for gourmands in 2019, the inaugural Curated Plate festival will bring together chefs, providores and food-lovers for four action-packed days in the Sunshine Coast. Celebrating refined regional cuisine, the event will take place across the spectacular destination – think food trails and farm tours, plus classes with culinary experts. The perfect excuse for a Sunshine Coast getaway? We think so.
With the full programme set to be announced in March, the festival has teased at fantastic experiences like a collaboration with chef Zaiyu Hasegawa (from two Michelin-starred Tokyo restaurant Den) at Maleny’s The Tamarind. In other words, watch this space.
Wairarapa Wines Harvest Festival, NZ – March 9
Across the ditch, there are also plenty of amazing foodie events that are sure to tempt couples. Showcasing some of New Zealand’s most beautiful scenery and exquisite produce, the Wairarapa Wines Harvest Festival will be one for gourmands, wine-lovers and romantics alike.
Taking place in New Zealand’s Pinot Noir capital, the one-day event will combine a grand food market with live music and fascinating art exhibitions. Lap up the sunshine, sample excellent produce, sip something utterly delicious and meet passionate local producers for a sensational day out.
Noosa Food & Wine Festival, QLD – May 16-20
It seems Queensland is blessed with culinary wonders (but we could have told you that), with another must-visit event taking place in the marvellous destination. A cherished mainstay on Australia’s gourmet calendar, the Noosa Food & Wine Festival promises another amazing event this year.
Whether you’re wanting to keep things laid-back (head along to the iconic Beach Sundowner on Noosa Main Beach for chilled vibes) or to indulge in a little glamour (treat yourselves to Moet & Chondon’s black tie gala Noir Noosa on Main Street for Champagne under the stars), the Noosa Food & Wine Festival goes all-out to impress couples. Serious about your food? There’ll also be dinners with celebrity chefs, plus a progressive lunch with names like Alla Wolf-Tasker and Matt Moran. Just want to feast on scrumptious fare? Try signature dishes from Noosa’s most-loved restaurants at the weekend-long Festival Village.
Visa Wellington on a Plate, NZ – August 1-31
Plan a New Zealand adventure around this fabulous event. Running throughout August, the Visa Wellington on a Plate event takes over the entire city for a month, highlighting the coolest places to eat and drink. Incredible cocktails, Insta-worthy quick eats, sumptuous degustation dinners, insightful masterclasses and trendy pop-up hangouts – there’ll all be here for you to enjoy.
The food isn’t always fancy at Wellington on a Plate, and that’s just fine with us. A popular festival inclusion, Burger Wellington will allow couples to taste some of the city’s top, well, burgers. Brew-lovers, you’ll also be in your element, with a weekend-long Beervana event inviting craft brewers to show off their hard work. We’ll raise a pint to that!
Dreaming of getting away for a weekend? Check out our ‘short breaks’ articles here… Helpful links:Tasting Australia // The Curated Plate // Wairarapa Wines Harvest Festival // Noosa Food & Wine Festival // Visa Wellington on a Plate
Image credits: South Australian Tourism Commission and www.visawoap.com/
