The calm before the storm with Cam O'Keefe

With Cam O’Keefe.

Welcome back! I hope your local hospitality experiences have been as delightful as mine over the past fortnight.

As the last quarter of the year unfolds (can you believe it?), our favorite spots – cafés, restaurants, hotels, wineries, and event spaces – are gearing up for the festive hustle of Christmas and summer. These coming weeks might be your last chance to savor some local gems before the end-of-year frenzy truly begins.

Mith – A Thai Delight in Geelong West:
Just last week, I chanced upon this new(-ish) Thai place on the north end of Pakington Street. The authenticity and quality blew me away! And the price? Simply unmatched. Their rotating lunch menu features both modern and classic Thai delights. And while the $15 lunch deal (including a soft drink) is enticing, it’s the taste that’ll keep you coming back. Personally, I opted for a bottle of imported Beer Lao, a rare treat from south-east Asia. Do yourself a favor and jot down the name – Mith.

The full menu at Mith is definitely worth exploring.

A Wine Affair at Shadowfax:
Last week, I enjoyed a long, exquisite lunch at Shadowfax winery with friends. Though it’s situated in Werribee, it’s geographically closer to Geelong CBD than Melbourne. They offer Italian-influenced dining, with their hand-stretched pizzas being a must-try. Open mainly for lunch, the winery also welcomes guests on Friday and Saturday nights. Don’t forget to try their 2022 Minnow roussanne, an impeccable wine with pear-like notes.

Piano Bar’s Young Talent Showcase:
Located on Little Malop, Piano Bar recently introduced an early session on Fridays that showcases young talent below 18. A fantastic platform for budding singers and entertainers, this segment precedes their regular “Piano by Request” nights. It’s an ingenious way to encourage the future generation of local vocalists.

Coffee Lovers, Rejoice at Fleur Wolves:
If you haven’t already, it’s time to visit Fleur Wolves. Open for about 18 months now, their coffee, brewed from 4Blend beans and made on a La Marzocco machine, is a delight. And as the “fleur” in their name suggests, they also feature a small, yet brilliant florist collection. You can find them on Brougham Street, nestled between Deakin and Westfield.