Vinnie Gibaldi, the newly crowned MasterChef Australia winner, is a proud Melburnian with a deep appreciation for food and dining. His culinary journey is a blend of his Italian heritage and the city's vibrant food scene. From his family's restaurant to his favorite eateries, Vinnie's palate is a testament to his love for good food and the joy of sharing meals.
A Family Affair: Italian Roots and MasterChef
Vinnie's Italian roots are deeply intertwined with his culinary passion. His father, Angelo Gibaldi, runs the iconic Stuzzichino restaurant on Lygon Street, a family-run establishment known for its classic Italian dishes. Vinnie's favorite treat at his father's restaurant is the homemade gnocchi with Napoli sauce or the cheesy gnocchi Sorrentina. Despite his success on MasterChef, Vinnie has no immediate plans to open his own restaurant, preferring to focus on his hospital job and the joy of cooking for loved ones.
Melbourne's Culinary Delights: From Pubs to Bakeries
Vinnie's love for Melbourne's food scene is evident in his favorite spots. The Sporting Club Hotel in Brunswick is a go-to for a Sunday roast, particularly their rolled pork with Yorkie and gravy. Three Crowns in North Melbourne is another favorite, known for its burgers and potato cakes. Bar Spontana in Brunswick is a hidden gem, offering modern Thai food and a great beef jerky.
In Fitzroy, Lagotto is a favorite for its seasonal menu, featuring dishes like whipped Vegemite butter with focaccia and Moreton Bay Bug pasta. Little Rose, also in Fitzroy, is a delightful spot with a menu that includes sausage and braised duck with tofu. For coffee and pastries, Vinnie swears by Code Black for a long black and Vandels in Brunswick for its chicken pies and fresh bread.
Date Nights and Sharing Chinese Delicacies
When it's time for a date night, Vinnie and his partner start with a drink at Bahama Gold, followed by a meal at Old Palm Liquo, known for its charcoal-grilled dishes. For out-of-towners, Vinnie recommends Chinatown and Shanghai Street Kitchen, as well as Red Cliff, a Chinese spot on Queen Street. Chinese food, he notes, is always best for sharing, and he fondly recalls the duck at Hua Lu Peking Duck, considered the best he's ever tried.
Affordable Delights and Family Memories
Vinnie's budget-friendly choices include Luke's Banh Mi and Good Days Hot Bread in Brunswick, as well as a kransky from the Queen Victoria Market. A special family memory is a fancy dinner at Esca Grill in Moonee Ponds, where he enjoyed a Wagyu steak. For takeaway, he loves a double patty burger with extra cheese and bacon, a guilty pleasure that brings back fond memories.
Cooking Wisdom and Future Endeavors
Vinnie's kitchen wisdom is simple: don't overthink your dish, and ensure every element on the plate makes sense. He credits Andy Allen for teaching him about the dining experience, which has influenced his plating and dish presentation. Looking ahead, Vinnie is content to return to his hospital job, finding fulfillment in helping others and the hard work it entails.
Vinnie Gibaldi's culinary journey is a delightful blend of family traditions, Melbourne's vibrant food scene, and the joy of sharing meals. His love for food and the city's diverse dining options make him a true Melburnian, and his MasterChef win only adds to the excitement of his culinary adventures.
