Housed in Melbourne’s heritage-listed Olderfleet on Collins Street, Freyja is a two-level restaurant, offering a sophisticated, ‘New Nordic’ approach to Australian dining and produce.
Fusing classic techniques with new culinary philosophies, the continually evolving menu led by Michelin-starred Chef Jae Bang, together with the contrasting heritage and minimalist interiors, brings a contemporary and elevated take on Scandinavian hospitality traditions. When we spoke with Freyja’s Executive Head Chef Jae last month about his 14-hatted restaurant, it was instantly obvious that he has a deep sense of community and an appreciation for culture, constantly learning and receiving inspiration from everything around him.
When asked what it was about the Nordic culture that he would bring back to Australia, his answer was embedded in the deep sense of community he felt there while heading up Sven Erik Renaa’s restaurant, RE-NAA in Stavanger, Norway where they earned two Michelin stars.
He says in his chat with AGFG: "People in the Nordic region prioritise mutual support, equality and respect. This vibe extends to everything, giving a distinctly local feel”.
It is perhaps on this basis that his current restaurant, Freyja is about to host special guest Rohit Singh, Winemaker from Mornington Peninsula producer, Avani Wines for an exclusive one-night-only dinner.
In the same interview with Australian Good Food Guide, Jae continues: "This camaraderie is also evident in the restaurant industry, touching everyone from staff to customers and suppliers. This sense of togetherness sets the region apart from many other places.”
As for the Wednesday October 11 event - the Freyja x Avani Wines dinner, guests will be taken on a culinary journey of taste and discovery as they indulge in a carefully curated menu paired with recently released and older drops from the Avani cellar, known for their exceptional craftsmanship and distinctive flavours.
The Avani dinner promises to be an unforgettable gastronomic experience, featuring five sumptuous courses expertly prepared by Chef Jae and his acclaimed culinary team, showcasing the very best of the restaurant and the spring season.
He shares: "We are delighted to collaborate with Avani Wines for this exclusive dinner at Freyja. Both Freyja and Avani share a dedication to excellence and the evening will be a celebration of our mutual passion for the art of culinary and winemaking."
Each of the five courses will be perfectly paired with an Avani drop, including its 2022 Sauvignon Blanc; refreshingly acidic and textural, 2022 Pinot Gris with white nectarine and hints of pear and the 2022 Rose de Saignee; with raspberry and strawberry on the nose. Also starring will be the elegant 2021 Issan Pinot Noir and 2019 ‘The Earth’ Syrah with its silky texture with balanced natural acidity, fine tannins and long finish.
Both Bang and Singh will take guests through the menu and their choice of pairings, giving exclusive insights into the creation of each dish and drop. The menu will include:
- Oyster, rhubarb, kosho.
- Mussel, smoked paprika, sherry vinegar, kelp.
- Skate, Oscietra caviar, lemon, tomato, blackcurrant wood.
- Beetroot, cherry, mustard, pistachio.
- Pork, mixed berries, sugar loaf, desert lime.
- Duck, daikon, mustard leaf, black currant, coriander seed.
- Berries,yoghurt, bay leaf, pistachio honey.
Winemaker Shashi and her son Rohit want each wine to tell the story of each site and the growing season. For them, it is about minimising additions and being as gentle as possible during the winemaking process. Under this minimal intervention approach, the wines are allowed to ferment with wild yeast and are unfiltered and unfined.
Tickets for the Avani x Freyja Wine Dinner will be $225 pp including matched wines and can be booked via Freyja’s website.
