Overview
Each year The Age Good Food Guide tells us something we already know: that we take food way too seriously. What it also unveils — apart from the realisation of just how many places you can get a feed — is which Victorian restaurants you should add to your must-eat list. Last night, in their 35th year, the Good Food Guide Awards made your wish list that little bit longer, announcing the winners of their 2015 accolades.
Both newcomers and hospo veterans were rewarded at this year's awards, and it was clear that longevity is both aspirational and revered. Taking top spot as Chef of the Year was, unsurprisingly, Andrew McConnell, who added Supernormal to his super successful restaurant empire in May. Restaurant of the Year went to Dan Hunter's Brae, which also entered the guide with three hats. In other news, Birregurra just booked out for the rest of the year.
When cooking food it's rather important to wear a hat. Metaphorically, of course. So which restaurants will be wearing the all-important headwear this year? The Town Mouse received one hat (to much applause from the rest of the industry), as did Union Dining, No. 8 by John Lawson and the aforementioned Supernormal.
Hats aside, we were happy to see one of our favourites Nieuw Amsterdam pick up an award for best drinks list, and for Angie Giannakodakis of Epocha be commended for service excellence (we wrote about her killer service here).
Forever showing their commitment to the local hospitality industry, this year's Good Food Guide saw over 650 restaurants reviewed — some up to four times. Not surprisingly, there was a movement towards casual dining, a resurgence of pickling and fermenting, and a whole lotta barbecue. No awards were given for Burger Artisan of the Year, but maybe that's one for 2016?
You can see the full list of Good Food Guide Award winners here.