Starved for food & wine festivals this year, the much-anticipated Taste Port Douglas returns after a four-year hiatus. Kicking off in October, the festival will be staged over four days in Tropical North Queensland, followed by a series of satellite events in Melbourne, Sydney and the Gold Coast.
Led by Spencer Patrick (Harrisons, Port Douglas), the festival will welcome some of Australia’s leading chefs to the table including Ben Williamson, Alanna Sapwell, Laura Sharrad and Massimo Mele (pictured below) – with more names soon to be announced.
Port Douglas will become the bustling epicentre of foodie heaven across the weekend with its breathtaking backdrop and tropical location. What better way to take in the sand, sun and sea than dining on some of the most delicious seasonal local produce that Port Douglas has to offer.
Taking place 7-10 October 2021, here’s our festival highlights:
Taste Port Douglas Launch Party | Thursday 7 October
Indulge in delicious canapés, drinks and live music under the stars and celebrate the opening of the festival!
Port Douglas Long Lunch | Friday 8 October
Celebrate the beauty of Tropical North Queensland with the Port Douglas Long Lunch presented by Jansz and staged in Market Park. Port Douglas restaurants Salsa, Sassi, Zinc & Harrisons join forces in the ultimate dining collab to present a delectable three-course menu.
East Meets West with Vasse Felix | Friday 8 October
East Coast chefs and West Coast wines come together for a delicious dinner presented by Margaret River winery Vasse Felix. After an arrival drink and canapés, indulge in a five-course menu matched with Vasse Felix wines and presented via video link by Vasse Felix’s Chief winemaker.
Wolf Lane Distillery Cocktail Masterclass | 9 October
Partake in a gin masterclass with Cairns based craft gin distillery Wolf Lane. During the interactive class, festivalgoers will be learn tips to ensure cocktail perfection, learn modern twists on cocktail favourites and be treated to the distinguished flavours from this award-winning distillery, all paired with gourmet bites throughout the class.
Agnes Brisbane x PorkStar Festival Pop-Up | 9 October
Acclaimed chef and restaurateur Ben Williamson brings his acclaimed Brisbane restaurant Agnes north in an exciting collaboration with PorkStar. Guests will experience the drama and ancient skills of cooking over fire as Ben lights up the night using custom fire pits designed by local craftspeople. The Agnes x PorkStar Pop-Up is part of the incredible food offering at the Harry Hawker Street Food Party.
The Official Taste Port Douglas Closing Party | 10 October
Farewell the festival under palm trees and stars at the official wrap party with a feast of pig on the spit accompanied by delicious Malfy Gin cocktails. Live music by Ashcats Soundsystem & DJ Bart through the night along with food stations and free-flowing beverages.
Taste Port Douglas returns 7-10 October 2021. Browse the full program and purchase tickets here. Taste Port Douglas Summer Roadshow across Melbourne, Sydney and Gold Coast dates soon to be announced. Plan your mini-break to Port Douglas with alluxia.
