Eyes and tastebuds on SA as Tasting Australia launches

The eyes – and tastebuds – of foodies from all over will be on South Australia, as Tasting Australia presented by RAA Travel serves up the state’s best food and beverage for the next 10 days.

From today, more than 150 culinary events in all 12 regions of the state will showcase the diverse people, places and produce South Australia has to offer. The traditional CBD festival hub, Town Square in Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga returns – a major drawcard for both city workers and visitors to Adelaide.

An iconic festival offering in the heart of the city, Town Square boasts a world-class range of food and beverage, including gourmet seafood, loaded mac’n’cheese, a hummus bar and a supercharged grill section, in addition to beverages designed to suit everyone.

In a further sign of the strong post COVID recovery, the 2023 event features international chef talent with Heidi Bjerkan (Norway), James Lowe (UK), Gill Meller (UK) and sommelier Victoria James (USA) – the highest number of international talent since before the pandemic.

In a unique initiative this year, Town Square patrons will be able to support Murray River regions hit by the once-in-a-century floods – with all proceeds of the $1 take-home, enamel Tasting Australia plates to be donated to the State Emergency Relief Fund.

It comes as South Australia celebrates a record-breaking month, with the AFL Gather Round and LIV Golf Adelaide helping fill hotel rooms and restaurants – contributing to an estimated $400 million being injected into the state’s economy by major events.

Tasting Australia presented by RAA Travel runs from Friday 28 April until Sunday 7 May 2023, across Adelaide and regional South Australia.

Town Square officially opens to the public today at 11am.

It is free to enter and is open every day of the festival.

Tickets to Tasting Australia presented by RAA Travel events are available via tastingaustralia.com.au.

Minister for Tourism, Zoe Bettison said Tasting Australia presented by RAA Travel is another brilliant event for South Australia, and an absolutely delicious reason to come to our city and explore our diverse regions.

"South Australia has had a hugely successful start to the year, with events driving domestic and international visitation to help boost the state’s economy," Minister Bettison said.

"Last year’s festival was a huge success, with more than 60,000 people visiting Town Square and a total of 82 events selling out, which directly supported almost 150 local businesses.

"I am thrilled that the country’s longest running eating and drinking festival, Tasting Australia, is taking over South Australia for the next 10 days, showcasing our globally renowned food and beverage sector and telling the stories of our producers and regions to visitors from around the world."

Co-Director Tasting Australia, Darren Robertson said Town Square makes special gastronomic experiences accessible for everyone.

"It is the heart of Tasting Australia, it brings people together to celebrate no matter what their budget," Mr Robertson said.

Co-Director Tasting Australia, Karena Armstrong said the event ensures there are accessible and affordable experiences for everyone – dishes from the vendors start from $5 and showcase the very best produce South Australia has to offer.

"From Coffin Bay oysters to Barossa Valley ham and Adelaide Hills Cheese, everything is locally sourced," Ms Armstrong said.

Tickets to Tasting Australia events are available via tastingaustralia.com.au.