I was invited by Visit Ballarat to attend the opening weekend of Restaurant Ballarat. The events are a partnership with Broadsheet Melbourne presenting a series of Sunday Roasts at iconic venues around Ballarat.
The opening lunch today was held in the grand Oddie Room at the Art Gallery of Ballarat. I adore the art gallery as much as I love good food so there was never going to be any doubt that I would attend. I was also very excited to get an invite as usually my sassy sister is the invited guest to events, not me. She was invited too, which was great, as I knew I would love sharing the experience with her. As it turns out, I was sitting with a bunch of awesome people I have met before who are excellent company!
The lunch featured seasonal produce all sourced locally and cooked by chef Peter Ford. I will be honest and admit that when I arrived and read the menu I skipped straight to the dessert section and found my current seasonal favourite, quince, would be served. The main of roast chicken and potted potatoes which was to precede dessert was a complete surprise and no less delicious.
The Restaurant Ballarat event is popular and for good reason, both the food and service is exceptional, but also the opportunity to dine in a unique location with a tailored menu just for the day showing the best produce Ballarat has to offer. A testament to how great the event is that last year the series was a sell out and this year 3 of the 4 lunches had already sold out before today’s opening.
Today the last ticketed lunches were released online. By the time you read this it may have sold out but check online here for information.
If you love events like this it’s worth keeping up to date by following Visit Ballarat on their social media accounts as well as signing up to their newsletter and blog. Ballarat continually has an amazing array of events happening and unless you keep up to date it is likely you will miss out.
Congratulations to everyone involved in today’s event – I cannot wait for next year!
^ This is what your tummy will look like after a Restaurant Ballarat lunch!!
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