Geelong gets a taste of the best

FOOD lovers had the special opportunity to bask in a Geelong food and wine wonderland at the Tastes of Central Geelong festival.

Closing last week, the 20-day event gave foodies in the region the chance to learn the tricks of the trade from local chefs as well as participate in wine and diner events as well as food-themed events.

The Tastes of Central Geelong festival involved 106 businesses and 611 events across nearly three weeks helping to promote and offer unique food and wine offerings to the people of the region, while encouraging people to get out and enjoy the colder winter months.

City of Greater Geelong mayor Peter Murrihy was rapt with event.

“What began as a modest festival is growing each year and helping to cement Geelong’s reputation as a destination for food, wine and culture,” he said.

“Geelong was turned into a thriving culinary destination over the 20-day festival, with events taking place across Little Malop Street, yoga studios, cultural institutions and Geelong Waterfront.”

Highlights of the festival included 2017 Chef of the Year Anna Polyviou’s sweet treat demonstration and DJ set at the Geelong Library and Heritage Centre; and cook, author, and television presenter Adam Liaw’s afternoon tea at The Pier.

Both were extremely popular, with Liaw and Polyviou hosting sell-out events.

“Planning and curating the festival takes a lot of hard work, and we’re grateful to all the city staff and local businesses that supported this year’s festival and helped make it such a success,” Cr Murrihy said.