If this generation’s television viewing is to be defined by a newfound obsession with celebrity chefs and cooking reality TV, then the MasterChef phenomena is its testament. Celebrating food in a three-day event held at Sydney’s Royal Hall of Industries, MasterChef Live offers its patrons a unique food-lovers experience: not only will attendees be treated to a special live performance by the now infamous judging trio, but there is a bevvy of stalls, live displays, cooking classes and samples that await our discerning palates.
As you wander through the various fresh produce outlets at the Festival of Food, you can’t help but bump shoulders with the likes of Kylie Kwong, Neil Perry, Peter Doyle, Justin North, Donna Hay, and more, as they engage with food devotees—patiently answering their questions while no doubt enjoying the sharing of their passion for food at the ‘Grill a Chef’ stand.
A highlight for the senses came at the Herbies stand where owner and Sydney herb and spice legend Ian ‘Herbie’ Hemphill was teaching patrons some spicy secrets as they each got to pound and blend under his expert guidance. And not far away was the so-called ‘Patissier of Pain’, Adriano Zumbo, with his festive gingerbread house creations.
Ginger seemed to be a theme, with the ‘Dickensian’ Rochester Ginger proving a popular stand. This spicy drink promises everything from lifting your summer cocktails to aiding in your recovery, and will no doubt be popular as a unique foodie gift this Christmas. The former MasterChef contestants were also out in force, with Alvin, Skye, Jimmy and Adam sharing their skills with an eager audience.
Apart from a large selection of high quality fare, kitchen queens will also be impressed by the latest gadgets and gizmos designed to make the most sophisticated recipe simple.
The live show itself sees the famous three judges, George Calombaris, Gary Mehigan and Matt Preston, along with guests such as Donna Hay, demonstrate their cooking talents while getting audience members to participate in ‘pressure tests’ and other such familiar segments from the show itself. The audience of about 2,000 excited fans proves that attitudes towards food in Australia have indeed undergone a profound change.
Cooking is now back on the menu and we are excited about being in the kitchen once more. With so many children in the audience, one can safely be reassured that a love of all things culinary will be safe at least for one more generation, and hopefully many more after that.
MasterChef Live is on from December 10-12 in Sydney. Discounted festival tickets are now available.
For more information visit: https://www.masterchefliveaustralia.com/
