If you’re looking for a host of excellent food and drink experiences this weekend all under one roof, The Little Food Market is a big win. The roof it’s under is the enormous and ornate Royal Exhibition Building in Carton Gardens, and under it this Friday, Saturday and Sunday you’ll find dozens of stalls offering great food, drink, homewares and good times.
On the snacking front you’ve got the likes of banh mi game-changers Ca Com doing what they do best in the sandwich department, plus broken rice with pork belly or turmeric chicken. You’ve got meaty meatball subs from Rocco’s, onigiri from Ima, and sweet pastry excellence from Tarts Anon. The Market is all about tasting, too, so there’s also sampling to be had from leading producers of cheese, honey, olive oil, hot sauces and plenty more besides.
Drinks? They’ve got ’em. Jamsheed, Fin, Gonzo Vino and Pizzini are among the leading lights from the wine world pouring their wares, there’s quality suds from Hop Nation, stronger waters from Bass and Flinders, JimmyRum, Loro and Tommy’s Booze, plus new-wave spritzes from Lip Service.
Things to do? The stage program is led by MCs Dani Valent and Hilary McNevin, hosting sessions on cheesemaking, the magic of fermentation, cocktails, and “the ultimate cheese board” with talents such as Sharon Flynn, Frank Camorra, Giorgio Linguanti and the snacc boss himself, Raph Rashid.
“From one mouthwatering surprise to the next,” say the organisers, “The Little Food Market will leave taste buds tingling and hearts singing.” We’ll be right there with you, food fans, tingling and singing with the best of them.
The Little Food Market, tickets from $19 pre-sale or $25 on the door, Friday 19 July, 11am-9pm, Saturday 20 July, 10am-7pm, Sunday 21 July, 10am-5pm, Royal Exhibition Building, Carlton, thelittlefoodmarket.com