FOOD & DRINK THINGS TO DO

This week’s Hot Tickets to the Autumn Celebration of Food

By

Samantha Tannous

Posted

Those in the know are already snapping up tickets to this highly anticipated annual food extravaganza, which is now in its fourth year. Jervis Bay Weekend is thrilled to be a sponsor of the festival this year. We have selected a short list of Hot Tickets that you might want to consider snapping up for yourselves.

We will bring you another list of Hot Tickets next week… plus a program of “meet the artist” events across the Shoalhaven as our local creatives team up with our best venues. Click on the links to read more about the menus, venues and teams involved in these events, and to buy your tickets.

Chef Giovanni Pilu is creating a Sardinian feast as part of the Autumn Celebration of Food in the Shoalhaven
Chef Giovanni Pilu is creating a Sardinian feast as part of the Autumn Celebration of Food in the Shoalhaven

Lunch with Giovanni Pilu & Chefs of the Shoalhaven at Parsons Events

Only a few spots left for this marquee event in this year’s festival, featuring acclaimed chef Giovanni Pilu who is bringing his signature Sardinian flair to the Shoalhaven.

Giovanni will be creating, alongside a lineup of local chefs, a menu that showcases authentic Italian cuisine from his award-winning restaurant, Pilu at Freshwater.

This event will support the Gaining Through Training program for students, a venture by the Shoalhaven Food Network and TAFE NSW.

At Parsons Events on the Princes Highway at Wandandian

$130pp on Sunday 18 May

Eat the Invaders at Kangaroo Valley or Woollamia

Billed as “a delicious discovery into eating local invasive species”, this intriguing lunch event is a twist on sustainability. Hosted by Angies Table in the Kangaroo Valley, the menu crafted from invasive species such as rabbit, goat, pest fish and foraged weeds, is also a chance to gain insights into how these species affect our ecosystem and how ethical consumption can turn a problem into an opportunity.

This is more than a meal; it’s a journey into the heart of sustainable eating, native flavours, and culinary creativity.

Come hungry, leave inspired—because sometimes, the best way to protect our land is to eat the problem and be part of the solution!

This event will not suit those on vegan or vegetarian diets. We can accomodate other dietaries. Contact us for any questions. 

$95 on two dates and locations: Saturday 17 May 1pm at The Valley Table, Kangaroo Valley or Sunday 18 May 1pm at Bay & Bush, Woollamia.

Eat the Invaders is a unique dining experience hosted by Angie's Table.
Eat the Invaders is a unique dining experience hosted by Angie’s Table.
Behind the Curtain – at Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre

Mise en place meets mise-en-scène when Encore Dining takes over the Entertainment Centre stage for a gastronomical experience like no other! Enjoy French-inspired cuisine in an unconventional setting… starting at the stage door where you will get a glimpse of the world backstage, then emerging from the wings to dine on the auditorium stage. For one evening only, this usual home of powerhouse vocalists and captivating performers will host a 4-course dining experience that will deserve a standing ovation. 

With an esteemed career in multiple hatted restaurants, Head Chef Matt Fleming has crafted a showstopping menu, inspired by his French culinary training.   

Mention any dietary needs when booking.

 4-Courses $110 or with wine $150 on Thursday 29 May

Masquerade Dinner at La Vespa in Vincentia

The tradition of the masquerade seems to have come from 13th Century Venice, where people would don a mask at times of revelry, with masks becoming a symbol of freedom and the mingling of social classes and genders.

La Vespa Italian Restaurant in Vincentia invites guests to an unforgettable Masquerade Dinner, promising a fun and exciting atmosphere, delicious Italian cuisine and an air of mystery. Wearing a mask is essential, but for those who don’t have one, masks will be available on the night for $5, with all proceeds benefiting the Safe Shelter for the Homeless in Nowra.

It’s a night of great food, entertainment, and giving back to the community. Book a spot now for this one-of-a-kind experience!

$50 pp on Thursday 15 May

Battle on Burton Street

Phoebe’s Kitchen goes to head-to-head with The Local, serving three courses each of a six-course feast. Both teams promise an evening of exceptional food, an on-site bar (glass of beer or bubbles on arrival), impeccable service, live local music, and a vibrant community gathering, showcasing the best of Burton Street, Vincentia’s shopping village.

This friendly competition gives attendees the chance to vote for their favourite dishes. To keep things fair, the menu will be anonymous, meaning no one will know which team prepared which dish until the winners are announced at the end of the night.

Join the community in the courtyard for an evening under the stars.

For dietary requirements, please email hello@thelocaljervisbay.com in advance. A set menu will be available for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free guests.

$80/$95 Thursday 29 May at 6pm

The Art of Cheese & Wine with Rosie Cupitt

This event is an intimate, hands-on experience designed for food and wine lovers who appreciate artisanal craftsmanship. Guests at Cupitt’s Estate in Ulladulla will learn the principles of pairing wine with cheese while also getting insider tips on how to make cheese at home.

$80 at 5pm on Friday 16 May

Match cheese and wine with Rosie Cupitt at Cupitt's Estate. Image supplied
Match cheese and wine with Rosie Cupitt at Cupitt’s Estate. Image supplied

Samantha Tannous

Samantha is a visual artist, and also organises arts, crafts and cultural events, including Arts Muster on the stunning NSW South Coast. Sam has also enjoyed a successful career as a public relations consultant and journalist, content creator and social media communicator.