There's a reason why the expression 'la dolce vita' is so universally popular. Because if any culture knows how to live life well, it's the Italians — siestas, espresso and carbs for every meal. The ritual of aperitivo, the traditional Italian version of 'cocktail hour', is no exception.
Earlier this year, The Dolphin Hotel launched its own version of aperitivo in its Wine Room with great success. Running from 5–7pm Sunday to Thursday every week, the sessions promise reasonably priced drinks and snack plates from some of Australia's — and the world's — most renowned restaurateurs and chefs. Former guest chefs have included Mitch Orr (Acme), Matt Stone and Jo Barrett (Oakridge) and CJ Wells (Automata).
But the next scheduled guest appearance is already causing quite a stir. On December 13, Ben Shewry from multi-award winning Melbourne restaurant Attica will be in the kitchen. The anticipation is so high, that The Dolphin is ticketing the event for the first time. Tickets go on sale today — Friday, December 8 — at noon.
The $40 ticket will cover a 'four-course snack attack' prepared by Shewry and his Attica team. Anyone familiar with Shewry's cooking will know to expect confident, flavoursome dishes that hero native ingredients. If Attica has always been on your bucket list, this event is a great way to sample the food in a more casual setting — think of it as the prelude, or 'aperitivo', to your forthcoming visit.
Tickets go on sale today — Friday, December 8 — at noon will all proceeds going towards Shewry's nominated charity Helping Hoops.