Dishes and destinations

The Gourmet Traveller team share where they’ve been and what they’re eating.

Lizard Island, Far North Queensland

It may have been the wet season but the sun came out to say goodbye as we farewelled this island paradise and enjoyed a sensational scenic flight back to Cairns. No wonder this is one of David Attenborough’s favourite spots in the world. Glorious.

Joanna Hunkin, editor

Bar Mammoni, Sydney

The new laneway bar offshoot of Hinchcliff House in Circular Quay reminds you just how fun after-work drinks can be, with the lure of puffy pizzette, a bodacious Spritz selection and service that’ll have you staying for an extra Spritz and snack for certain. Shop 3 Loftus Ln, Sydney, NSW

Jordan Kretchmer, writer

Cecconi’s, Melbourne

No matter how short our stint in Melbourne is, we always make time for a lunch (usually to refuel mid-shop) at Cecconi’s. You get a real sense of Venetian grandeur with the most memorable seafood linguine. 61 Flinders Ln, Melbourne, Vic

Lisa de Minaur, editorial coordinator

Melbourne Food and Wine Festival

The return of MFWF was an unabashed good time. It was a celebration of everything there is to love about the Victorian capital – from world-class eating and drinking to best-in-class partying. At every event I attended I heard at least one person say: “Melbourne’s back.” No arguments here.

Callum McDermott, digital editor

Blume, the Scenic Rim region

Boonah, a small town an hour’s drive southwest of Brisbane, is officially on our dining radar thanks to the arrival of Jack Stuart’s neo-bistro, Blume. Stuart’s sensational ox tongue and pink oyster mushroom skewers are just one reason why you should pop this 21-seater on your must-visit list. Cnr High St and Church St, Boonah, Qld

Fiona Donnelly, Qld state editor