31 Aug - 3 Sep 2026 | MCEC Melbourne
Commercial kitchen profitability, Rising costs, shrinking margins and constant operational pressure are redefining how kitchens need to operate. According to Andrew Briese, Founder of Cooking the Books, profitability now relies less on instinct and more on discipline, consistency and intelligent systems. His core message is simple: a kitchen becomes profitable
Artificial intelligence (AI) isn’t a future concept for hospitality. It’s already reshaping how operators run venues, connect with guests, and manage their business. Leaders across booking software, staffing technology and multi-venue operations agree: operators who begin experimenting now gain a clear commercial edge. Rather than replacing human connection, AI is
The Melbourne born-and-bred chef spent his formative years cooking in the subterranean venue when it was called Ezard, a fine-dining institution closed without fanfare by chef Teague Ezard in the blur of 2020’s pandemic lockdowns. Now Brendan’s back in the iconic space under the Adelphi Hotel giving Melburnians a local
The last few months have been a whirlwind of industry triumphs and hardships. Now with the easing of almost all restrictions across the east coast, increased travel and a positive outlook for the industry, we’re looking ahead excitedly for the rest of this year. This week would have hosted Fine
Offering people incentives to stay with your business can bring great benefits and help enhance your reputation as an attractive place to work. But there are other ways to do it than just through a competitive salary. Here are five ways to reward and retain employees: 1. Create opportunities to
Charcuterie charmers “We’ll be seeing a lot more charcuterie and salumi, for the very simple reason that it can be – indeed, must be – made ahead of time, and is easily sliced and prepped for service,” says Terry Durack, Chief Restaurant Critic at The Sydney Morning Herald. “I think
By Wendy Hargreaves In the long shadow of Melbourne’s pandemic lockdowns, the award-winning chef has launched two new dining venues and a thriving gelato business, all while adapting his acclaimed CBD restaurants for the home retail market. And this month, the MasterChef regular got his own TV show, co-staring in
