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Australia, Cuisine, Luxury Journeys

Acclaimed Sydney restaurant Bennelong and its love affair with Australian food

February 19, 2023 by Leanne Williams No Comments

For the best Australian food make a reservation at Sydney’s iconic Opera House where Bennelong offers a unique fine dining experience described as ‘Australia on a plate.’ Here a culturally significant and seasonal menu showcases the magnificence of Australian produce and celebrates the country’s bounty of top-quality wines.

The award-winning restaurant is renowned for constantly pushing the boundaries of Australian food and cuisine, while still staying true to the terroir. A visit to Bennelong will serve to tantalize both the taste buds and the inquisitive mind.

Discover this on: Inspiring Australia

The endless possibilities of Australian cuisine

@bennelong_sydney

To define Australian food is not a simple task. Stereotypical views of ‘shrimps on the barbie’ fall short of the mark, although the country’s barbeque talent is legendary. A multicultural country, modern Australian cuisine reflects the people with an eclectic offering. Prepare to taste Greek, Chinese, English, Japanese, Lebanese, Indian, Indigenous and French influences amongst others, both in technique and taste. Australian dishes are often presented as thoughtful yet unpretentious plates that let produce and flavors do the talking.

Peter Gilmore, Executive Chef at Bennelong, once described Australian cuisine as “Reflecting our unique land where you can grow just about any product. It’s a modern society drawing on multicultural influences. We’re able to interpret with freedom and an open mind.”

For travel inspiration: Australia destination guide

Hearts close to the terroir

@bennelong_sydney

Executive Chef Peter Gilmore leads the team in the Bennelong kitchen. One of Australia’s most celebrated chefs, Peter describes his cuisine as ‘food inspired by nature’. A passionate gardener, he is hailed as one of the first chefs in Australia to embrace heirloom varieties of vegetables.

Together with Head Chef Rob Cockerill, Peter works closely to build invaluable relationships with producers as the centrepiece of the cuisine. These include Australian farmers, fishermen and growers many of whom cultivate produce exclusively for Bennelong and its sister restaurant Quay. Both are among Australia’s most awarded fine dining restaurants.

Related content: The ‘world’s best restaurant’ is closing its doors – 4 contenders to steal its crown

A love for all seasons

@bennelong_sydney

The crux of modern Australian food is using the right produce at the right time.

“We will look at what produce is in its prime, and not just vegetables and fruits. We ask ourselves; What fish and seafood are swimming off the coast at the moment? What meat are at the peak of their seasons?,” says Head Chef Rob Cockerill.

“This is something that traditionally the Indigenous people, have been doing forever. Following the seasons and maintaining the environment, so that the next season will be just as plentiful as the last.”

While the change of the seasons in Australia might be subtle in comparison to Europe or the United States, throughout the years the chefs at Bennelong have gained a deeper understanding of the country’s seasons. This also includes how seasonal changes affect the produce that lives and grows locally.

Related content: 5 Michelin Star chefs celebrating local culture through food

A delectable menu

@bennelong_sydney

Sophisticated, relaxed and rooted in the local terroir, the dishes at Bennelong celebrate the complex mix of cultures that form modern Australia and Australian food. The menu celebrates seasonal and local produce that promotes Australian flavors.

Depending on the season, try smoked mackerel with a preserved lemon puree, green wheat and a swordfish bone marrow consommé. Or savor mud crab congee with chawanmushi and palm heart. Maremma pasture-raised duck with hunter sausage, cherries and Kampot pepper, and a smoked eggplant salad with young pistachios, roasted pine nuts, labneh, and crisp falafel on top of baba ghanoush could also tempt your tastes.

Dishes served at this Australian luxury restaurant are built on complex flavors that that you on a journey. At the ground roots of the menu is a desire to showcase quality, predominantly Australian ingredients in pure yet creative form.

Related content: The perfect Australian grape by wine expert Nick Williams of Hungerford Hill

A site of historical significance

@bennelong_sydney

Bennelong is set in arguably one of the most spectacular buildings in one of the world’s most beautiful city locations. The Sydney Opera House, the most famous piece of architecture on Sydney’s Circular Quay, holds an important place in history. And the Bennelong Restaurant is built on a site enriched with history of communal eating and telling stories.

The site is named after an Aboriginal man named Bennelong who had his hut on this historic spot around 200 years ago. Bennelong became a figurehead for relations between Aborigines and the colonists at Government House, which was once located at this point.

Related content: The ‘world’s best restaurant’ is closing its doors – 4 contenders to steal its crown

You can enjoy fine Australian food at Bennelong on our Inspiring Australia luxury guided tour. With each day bookended by exquisite cuisine and magnificent hotels, this is the ultimate way to discover the delights of Australia.

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Asia, Luxury Journeys

Looking to rekindle the romance? This luxurious Udaipur hotel ticks all the boxes

February 13, 2023 by Luxury Gold No Comments

Sumptuous rooms, decadent dining and panoramic lake and mountain views – welcome to the Leela Palace Hotel in Udaipur, India. This five-star establishment offers everything you could wish for in a romantic luxury hotel and so much more.

The unparalleled grandeur of the Leela Palace is an ode to the Land of the Mewars, the region of Rajasthan where the hotel is located. Traditional artisanal crafts and exquisite embellishments inspired by the rich cultural heritage of the area adorn the rooms. Scenic views of the city, tranquil Lake Pichola and the Aravalli mountains make for amazing vistas. It is truly one unforgettable romantic stay.

For travel inspiration: India destination guide

The art of the hotel

@theleelapalaceudaipur

Every inch of the Leela Palace hotel is a masterpiece. Inspired by the royal grandeur of India, the hotel is steeped in culture and history. As you stroll amongst hand-carved marble lotuses and silver elephants, the contemporary decor blends seamlessly with traditional architecture. Thekri, a Mewari art form that uses intricately chiseled mirrors on plaster, is the main theme of the palace interiors.

Embroidered fabrics mix throughout with dark wood furniture. Here you can see the Tarkashi work – the art of setting brass wires, strips and motifs in wood to make handcrafted furniture. You can also book (at extra cost) an Art Walk of the Palace, where an expert will reveal the treasures to you and provide fascinating insights into culture and history.

Discover this on: Imperial Rajasthan

The Maharaja Suite

@theleelapalaceudaipur

If you are going all out to rekindle the romance, then why not take the best room at this most romantic luxury hotel? Although it comes with an eye-watering price tag, the Maharaja Suite is worth dreaming of. This royal choice features plush interiors adorned with fine art and artifacts. During your stay you will be waited on hand and foot by your personal butler. Built into the suite, for the discreet comfort of its distinguished guests, is a massage parlor, a spacious plunge pool and sprawling courtyards.

At 3,585-sq.-ft. the vast suite comes with a living room, study, dining area and master bedroom with a separate walk-in wardrobe. The king-size bathtub and jacuzzi as well as the separate shower stall and water closet only add to the feel of luxury.

Related content: Our top 10 hand-picked luxury hotel stays for 2023

The Grand Heritage Lake View Room

@theleelapalaceudaipur

Maybe a more realistic option for most luxury travelers, the other rooms and suites at the Leela Palace hotel, while smaller, are no less impressive. Wake up to tranquility in one of this romantic luxury hotel’s Grand Heritage Lake View rooms. Elegant, contemporary interiors are adorned with traditional Rajasthani art and craftwork by local artisans, and exquisitely embroidered fabrics lure you to relax.

Superbly comfortable beds and all the expected amenities of a five-star hotel combine for a romantic luxury getaway. Rooms with a balcony offer panoramic romantic views of the lake and mountains. This is the perfect spot to sip champagne and relive years, stories and moments gone by.

Related content: The personal touch: our top 5 curated luxury travel experiences for 2023

Exquisite dining

@theleelapalacehoteludaipur

Offering the best in Indian fine dining, the hotel’s Sheesh Mahal restaurant showcases the most exotic and exquisite flavors. The perfect luxury hotel for Valentine’s Day, dine in the warm open-air, overlooking the lake and under a glittering night sky. Using recipes mastered in royal kitchens, Sheesh Mahal mirrors the traditional essence of the kitchens of India. Along with contemporary nuances, the local flavors are elevated to their authentic best. Under the glow of candles, the restaurant invites you to enjoy the nostalgia and romance of a bygone era.

The Library Bar

@theleelapalaceudaipur

The perfect date venue, drop into the Library Bar to sip a romantic cocktail or fine champagne. Choose from time-refined cognacs, single malts and vintage wines. Choose the bar to spend one-on-one time together whilst enjoying the wood paneling, fireplaces, fine art, books and collectible artifacts that adorn the walls. Sink into one of the comfortable couches and pick from the finest selections of whiskies and liquors from around the world. Or step out into the courtyard to enjoy Rajasthani folk music and dance performances every evening.

A sublime location

@theleelapalacehoteludaipur

The Leela Palace hotel makes the most of its lakeside location, with sublime views across the waters of Lake Pichola and panoramic views of the rolling Aravalli Mountain ranges. Despite this tranquil locale, the hotel is in the city center so the sights of Udaipur are within close reach, making this a perfect destination and hotel for your honeymoon. The spectacular City Palace, the floating Lake Palace and the Indo-Aryan Jagdish Temple are all romantic spots to visit.

Related content: From off-grid trips to nostalgic getaways: the top luxury holiday destinations for 2023

The Spa

@theleelapalacehoteludaipur

A serene getaway to wellness and relaxation, the Leela Palace Hotel spa is worthy as a destination in itself. This tented spa complex features eight luxury tents, with a yoga and meditation tent, as well as therapy suites with private pools. Here clients are offered a holistic experience to recharge the body, mind and soul.

Guests of the spa can also enjoy a Temple ritual. This takes place daily at Lord Shiva’s 16th-century Omkareshwar temple in the Palace Garden. If you are looking for the best luxury hotel for couples then, with this amazing spa, the Leela Palace is the perfect location to relax together.

Related content: Expert selected: the 4 best hotel spas you can visit with Luxury Gold

 

If you are looking for an extra special travel experience, whether to rekindle the romance or just treat yourselves then India is a fantastic destination. Stay in this romantic luxury hotel and many more worldwide on our limited-edition guided journeys.

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Cuisine, Europe

This little gelateria in San Gimignano may just serve the best gelato in all of Italy

January 31, 2023 by Katie Johnson No Comments
Gelateria Dondoli

When your Italy travels take you to a famed gelateria in San Gimignano, know that you’re in for a treat. Much more than a joy for the taste buds, Sergio Dondoli’s gelato in San Gimignano is a haven of local flavors, top-quality ingredients and award-winning innovations. Patrons travel from around the world to visit the best gelateria in San Gimignano. Here’s why you should too. 

The shop 

While Gelateria Dondoli (or Gelateria di Piazza) is known worldwide as a gelato destination and certainly the best gelateria in Italy, the experience of visiting the shop is intimate and personal. You’ll find the gelateria tucked down a winding alleyway in Piazza della Cisterna in San Gimignano, one of Tuscany’s many piazzas.  Step inside – or join the line – and be prepared to be delighted by the creations by Master Gelato Maker Sergio Dondoli. 

Gelateria Dondoli

@gelateriadondoli_official

The man behind the gelato  

To understand Dondoli’s mastery, we must also understand the importance of homemade gelato in history. The first person to introduce gelato from Italy to France was Catherine de Medici, future wife of Henry II King of France, in the 16th century. Catherine had worked with alchemist Cosimo Ruggieri as part of a cooking contest to create this creamy dessert and the rest, as they say, is history. Today, Dondoli carries on the tradition as one of the 10 Master Gelato Makers in Italy.  

Dondoli is especially known for his experimental, original and unusual flavors. Some of the most notable include Crema di Santa Fina® (cream with saffron and pine nuts), Champelmo® (pink grapefruit and sparkling wine), Dolceamaro® (cream with aromatic herbs) and Vernaccia Sorbet. 

Read more: 10 stunning Lake Como towns you need to visit

Gelateria Dondoli

@gelateriadondoli_official

Since he began making gelato in 1984, Dondoli has been recognized with numerous international awards. He won the prestigious MAM (Master of Art and Craft) award in 2016, the Italian equivalent of the “Living National Treasure” Japanese Prize, and the French “Maître d’Art” Award. Only 75 Artistic Masters were awarded this honor in Italy, and Sergio is the only Gelato Master to have received this important award. Dondoli also took part in “Identità Golose” (Tempting Identities), a gastronomic event in Milan between February 1-4, 2009, as a member of the “Creatività Gelate” (Frozen Creativities) group.  He also recently published a book, I, Sergio Dondoli, an autobiographical account of his passion that includes his recipes.   

Sergio Dondoli

@gelateriadondoli_official

The gelato 

Not surprisingly, Dondoli makes his gelato using highly selected, top-quality ingredients, often local to the region. For example, his DOP Saffron has earned the protected designation of origin from San Gimignano and Vinsanto. Dondoli also uses “Tonda Gentile” Hazelnut from the Langhe region and Bronte Pistachio. Dondoli is the only gelato maker to use Amedei chocolate, awarded the Oscar in London as the best chocolate in the world for five years. He uses raw milk from cows adopted by Gelateria Dondoli at Camporbiano Farm, and local, organic fruit whenever possible. 

When you consider the appeal of gelato compared to ice cream, you can imagine why these flavors are so special. Gelato has more milk than cream and uses lower quantities of fat than ice cream. Because gelato has less air in the base, it is denser and packed with more flavor than ice cream.       

Chocolate gelato

@gelateriadondoli_official

We can’t wait to try… 

With so many tempting creations at this gelateria in San Gimignano, how do you choose? We have our eyes on some of the most innovative flavor combinations using aromatic herbs such as Rosemary Baby® (Raspberry and Rosemary) and Venere Nera® (Blackberries and Lavender). We can’t wait to sample the pairings of sweet, spicy and bitter, including Sangue di Bue® (spicy chocolate and sour cherries), Michelle® (saffron cantuccini, Avola almonds, honey and bitter orange peel), Biske Rata® (white chocolate, pumpkin seed oil, and cookies) and Crema de’ Pazzi® (bitter orange peel, Grand Marnier, dark chocolate and almonds). 

Gelato selection

@gelateriadondoli_official

The class 

After your visit to this gelateria in San Gimignano, you may want to dig your spoon deeper into the world of gelato. Should you have more time on your travels, you can take the Dondoli Gelato Class to learn more about and make gelato. You’ll have a quick lesson followed by trying your hand at making a Fiordilatte (raw milk) gelato and a seasonal fruit (persimmon, banana, strawberry, lemon or melon) gelato.  

Gelato selection

@gelateriadondoli_official

Just a taste 

Dondoli’s gelateria in San Gimignano is just a taste of the culinary riches of Italy’s Tuscany region. Read about seven ways you’ll celebrate Tuscan food with Luxury Gold and the essential guide to Italy for foodies. 

Still hungry? These 5 Michelin Star chefs are celebrating local culture through food. 

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