I spent a lazy Saturday morning enjoying a fantastic FODMAP-friendly feast in Fitzroy, courtesy of the amazing humans at Melbourne Picnics. This little start-up was born from the passion that founder Meg has for the finer things in life — I’m talking about breads, cheese, and other gourmet yummies.
Melbourne Picnics takes the humble picnic and adds a dash of flare and style to create bespoke, luxurious experiences for all of us picnic-lovers who can’t be bothered lifting a finger. It’s all about enjoying a picnic that’s minimum effort and maximum enjoyment.
My plus one and I attended Melbourne Picnics’ inaugural gluten-free and gut-friendly picnic event. We soaked up some rays at the Fitzroy Gardens whilst lounging around on some Turkish picnic blankets, snacking on some gourmet FODMAP-friendly treats, and enjoying some sweet tunes courtesy of Melbournian folk singer Dutchound. All we had to do was show up and enjoy.
After some research, I now know that FODMAPs are the range of short chain carbs and sugar alcohols that can cause a good gut to go bad. Melbourne Picnics teamed up with Being Well Healthcare and Market on Malvern Cafe to throw an event catering to dietary sensitivities like gluten-free, fructose-free, and dairy-free, just to name a few.
Our nibbles included a range of cheeses, charcuterie platters piled with delicious prosciutto, ham, salami, dips, salads, crackers, and some sweet treats too. I showed up a bit later and, as expected with good food, unfortunately didn’t get to sample all the sweet treats. I did however try the Hummingbird cake from Stripped Desserts and was pleasantly surprised.
The afternoon was also full of games for patrons to enjoy (yes, including bocce), friendly competitions to try win a range of prizes, and a nail spa area for more pampering. If this wasn’t enough, we also got to take home two goodie bags busting with samples of some amazing FODMAP-friendly treats.
There are currently no dates for any future event picnics from the team at Melbourne Picnics, but they are available to book for a private function all year-round. The standard Melbourne Picnic experience lasts two hours, includes set-up, food and drinks, and clean up afterwards. If you’re looking for a unique, stress-free entertainment option then look no further than Melbourne Picnics.
– Ashanie
Ashanie Perera is a foodaholic, and avid eater. When she’s not dreaming about her next meal, she can be found running around the block to continue fitting into her current clothes. @thepursuitofchubbyness
Melbourne Picnics
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