Portarlington Mussel Tours
How can the memories of Melbourne’s cuisine be complete without mussels?
In Melbourne, delicious mussels can be tasted in restaurants of all sizes. The mussels in sweet and sour tomato sauce are a real treat. Dipping bread in the sauce and eating it together is simply excellent! Most of the local mussels come from the small coastal town of Portarlington in the south. Thanks to its unique and pollution-free ocean environment, this place supplies 60% of the country’s mussels. The clear seawater and abundant microorganisms have cultivated plump, fresh, sweet, rich-flavoured mussels that are high in protein and low in fat. It truly lives up to the reputation of the “Mussel Capital”.
By the Portarlington dock, there is a mussel boat moored. Taking the Huon Pine vessel to the middle of the sea, listening to Captain Lance’s explanation of mussel farming while savouring fresh raw mussels, this “from the ocean to the table” taste experience can be said to be the most luxurious indulgence for the taste buds.
The moment Captain Lance pulls up the rope at a depth of five meters under the floating buoy, people’s eyes light up when they see the densely packed layer upon layer of mussels sticking to each rope. The shells are dark black and glisten with a blue light. After the captain puts the freshly picked mussels into the “Mussolini” machine for cleaning, he pries them open with a small knife and explains that the orange-coloured mussels are male, and the pinkish-white ones are female. After a careful taste, the male mussels are found to be more delicious.
Captain Lance’s wife, Lizzie, also demonstrates on the boat how to cook mussels. As soon as the finished dish is served, the fragrance fills the air, making everyone drool. After tasting it, they all praise it highly!
1. In addition to mussels, you also tasted oysters on the boat.
2-3. From picking, cleaning, prying open to tasting, it is the moment when people verify the most abundant gifts that the sea bestows upon humanity.
4. Captain’’s wife demonstrate how to cook mussels on the boat.
Address: Harding St, Portarlington VIC 3223
Website: www.portarlingtonmusseltours.com.au
South Melbourne Market
The South Melbourne Market, which has nearly 150 stalls, was established in 1867 and is the longest-operating market in Melbourne. The market is filled with a wide variety of goods. There are fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, seafood, delicatessens, groceries, and baked goods. Even clothing, household items, kitchenware, and flowers are all available here, making it a feast for the eyes.
When you come here, apart from experiencing the daily life atmosphere of Australians, local delicacies such as seafood, nuts, fruits, baked goods, and coffee are a must-try. Many seafood stores here offer fresh shrimp, fish, lobsters, crabs, as well as oysters that you simply must taste. There are also cafes and dessert shops in the market, allowing you to take a short break when you’re tired from shopping and continue your battle with delicious food!
Address: 322-326 Coventry St, South Melbourne VIC 3205
Website: www.southmelbournemarket.com.au