Drink trends
The classic cocktail Melburnians can’t get enough of right now – and where to find the best ones
You can order them frozen, dusty and with a deli cabinet’s worth of garnishes. But don’t mess with the fundamentals, say bartenders.
- Emma Breheny
Move over minimalism, these three new bars are colourful, fun and original
One spot is a nostalgic experience for children of the ’70s. Another turns American takeaway dishes into killer bar snacks. None follows the rules.
- Emma Breheny
The high-end restaurants opening more casual, more affordable, just as delicious bars next door
You don’t need to plan weeks in advance, you can name your budget, and it’s OK if you haven’t dressed up. Is there a catch to this new breed of Melbourne bar?
- Emma Breheny
Raise a glass to the bagnum, the plastic wine pouch that’s made cask wine cool again
There’s a growing thirst for wine in alternative packaging, from pouches and cans to the new-school goon bag.
- Katie Spain
The best sparkling wines for your buck (featuring Aldi’s ‘fresh and fun’ French fizz for just $9)
The expert’s guide to buying the best value pet-nat, prosecco, Aussie sparkling and French champagne for less than you may think.
- Katie Spain
Espresso-meets-cocktail bars, high-tech tools at home: 10 coffee trends to tap into, right now
From next-level gadgetry to improve your espresso to unbridled creativity in iced drinks, here’s what’s brewing in the caffeine scene.
- Emma Breheny
Move over, Aperol Spritz. There’s a zesty new must-sip drink this summer
After visiting Italy, Australian travellers have developed a thirst for limoncello, a lemon-flavoured liqueur that evokes good times.
- Katie Spain
The new iced coffee is fizzy, foamy − and might not even contain coffee
Melbourne cafes are racing to outdo each other with next-gen iced drinks. Plus five cool new iced coffees to try.
- Emma Breheny
Tiramisu, we’re so over you: Five current dining trends we never want to see again (and seven we love)
Stingy wine pours, restaurants without phones and tiramisu are among dining trends we never want to see again.
- Emma Breheny and Ellen Fraser
Coming soon to a glass near you: Four drinks trends to look forward to sipping this summer
Plus: the Good Food Guide 2024 finalists for Drinks List of the Year.
- Katie Spain