It’s considered one of the world’s best restaurants and, with its unique approach to cooking and produce, it’s easy to see why. Set in the Victorian Otways, Brae Restaurant aims to be as sustainable as possible, and to leave a positive impact on the land and their local community. And, with three hats to its name, this approach is paying off! Johanna is meeting up with the co-owners of Brae, Julianne Bagnato and renowned head chef, Dan Hunter, to learn more about this stunningly beautiful restaurant, which is set amongst the farm fields from which its produce comes, and to chat all things paddock to plate.
Missed out on last week’s episode? Here’s what Johanna Griggs got up to
Nonna Fina (Delfina) is well known for her beautiful garden, delicious home-cooked recipes, and hilarious videos on social media. Nonna Fina and her granddaughter, Maddie, have become internet sensations, and there’s no guessing why. Their authenticity and genuine personalities have created a tight-knit, loving online community, so much so that they won the Home-cook award in the recent Better Homes and Gardens Creator Awards.
Johanna is visiting with Delfina and Maddy today to see behind the scenes. Here are three things we’ve learned from the visit:
1. Homemade and homegrown
Nonna Fina’s garden has the classic Aussie Hill’s Hoist, lots of concrete to water (IYKYK) and many vegetable plots to grow produce for cooking. Whether you only have space for a small pot of herbs or can grow your own tomato plant, Nonna Fina has shown that homegrown really is more delicious.
And, if you love pasta, then making your own sugo (tomato sauce) is a must, just like Nonna Fina does. She has her own ‘nonna supermarket’ spot under her house, filled with sauce bottles, homemade wine and cold storage.
2. Simple is best
Nonna Fina has made a frittata for Johanna, and in the process, shown that simple is sometimes best. With only a handful of ingredients, including ham, pecorino and baby spinach. Using a few ingredients and a simple method is ideal for home-cooking that’s easy and efficient but still full of flavour.
3. Lead with love
Finally, the reason why Nonna Fina and Maddie have reached stardom online is for the absolute love and giving nature that their relationship has. From making huge amounts of food to feed the family, to always making every guest feel welcome – including Johanna – Nonna Fina and Maddie lead their life with love.
