crazy food combinations

There's nothing better in this weather than to head to a smoke house and gorge oneself in meats, craft beers and cocktails. Melbourne is increasing it's American BBQ restaurants and makes me very excited. I love the varieties of smokes that add different depths of flavour to a brisket, pork or even chicken. Up in Smoke located in Footscray is a smoke house that shouldn't be missed. Delivering an amazement of meats that are tender, juicy and perfectly smoked. Starting the day off with some Hot Wings with ranch dressing and accompanied by a fresh cocktail, was a great beginning to the day. Coated in smokey spices and enough to get your palate active as small hits of chilli dances on your taste buds, but held with restraint so that they don't burn your senses. The Meat tray is probably the best option to select here, ensuring that you get a taste of everything they offer. Brisket, pulled pork and my favorite Jalapeno and cheese sausage. OMG!!!! Served with pickles, milk bu...

Above the dwellings of Swanston street nests a Lounge where Gloria's Kitchen sets up serving an American inspired menu. A perfect choice to match the bar beverage selection whilst you lounge around with friends and co-workers for Lunch, dinner, late or in between. Basically any time of day. Start the Lounging with some Mac 'n' Cheese balls, looking like circular aranchini's but not. These crumbed golden balls are all about the mac and the cheese with bacon pieces and served with a spiced aioli. Any American food hunter wouldn't want to pass these up. Sliders are the way to go but watch out, they are all above normal slider size and can become very overwhelming, rich and filling. All sliders served with a side of fries means you don't need to get that side of wedges or fries you usually do in most places. But I'd suggest maybe choose a salad to cut through the grease and the richness. The Pulled pork Pig slider is as a duo with both over flowing with tender j...

Like Oliver Twist I am finding myself taking an empty plate and asking for more, or was that S'more? Unlike Oliver Twist though there wasn't a mean man screaming at me while others watched on and tremble. In actual fact it was a friendly and attentive waiter Tom who attended to my needs this evening. Joes Bar located in St Kilda is Celebrating all things American this week with having Independence day on the 4th and Graham Cracker day on the 6th. People may remember Joes as Greasy Joe's but not any more. In actual fact it's far from that we once remember. It's smooth and warm trimmings really uplift the feel to the restaurant, art work that influences the beach scene of St Kilda and chill out sessions from the Dj really set a casual yet elegant dining experience. A genuine greeting at the door and an introduction the the regular menu and the Special weekly America themed menu is provided and explained. It was a pleasant surprise for our Waiter introduced himself...

There is nothing more hearty than to enjoy some good steak or perhaps a burger on a miserable cold and wintry night, some good comfort food makes the bad weather seem so distant. With friends in tow we set off to find somewhere that can help us with the much needed cuisine. Big Boy BBQ seemed to be a place where all our thoughts and dreams could come true, with anything from a burger (sandwich) to meat platters, it is a great fixture to accommodate the smallest to the largest appetite. No reservations for tables under 6 it was a risk for the 3 of us, but we were more than happy to wait as we inhaled the smell of grilling meat smothered in spices, and watched the team produce platters of endless meat. The line to order was out the door, so it's clear signs it must be pretty good. A 20 minute wait for a table when arriving just before 7 isn't too bad as there is limited seating with approx 3-4 booths some bar seating and a larger table to accommodate groups more than 6. There is ...