Summer cocktails and Italian food, anyone?
- Silvana Franze
- Nov 13
- 3 min read
Summer. It's such an evocative word. Images of crystal blue waters spring to mind. As do white sandy beaches, little kids bronzed by the sun happily crafting their version of a sand castle, and enjoying something refreshing to eat in the shade with best friends and family.
Somehow, it's been awhile since I've been near a beach, with the Blue Mountains being my main playground (read workplace) and I don't mind at all. Actually, I feel a little privileged when the mornings and evenings are still cool, as those further away from this region start to melt in the heat and humidity. To breathe the fresh air in the early hours of the day is invigorating. Plus sleep time is comfortable and rarely does the temperature reach levels above 18 degrees. Don't quote me as I haven't checked the weather app in the middle of the night!
Summer also means vacation time for many. School and work places close down for the year and travel plans are in the making. Personally, I love being a tourist in my own backyard, looking for something new to discover around the corner. Isn't it a joy when that happens! I may give my age away when I confess that to be out and about for a few hours, and still get home by 10pm is a bonus.
Staying local isn't just about convenience, but who doesn't love that? We feel great when we help out a stranger in need. How much better must we feel when we know we're supporting the local family run businesses as we get to know them by name, bump into them at the supermarket (ah, make that Farmer's Market) or cross paths whilst walking the dog of an evening. A sense of community and belonging. Who doesn't want that? I think there should be a new saying "the community that shops together, grows together".
More and more locals in Katoomba have discovered The Factory Bar, owned and run by Blue Mountains Gin Company (BMGC). Have you been yet? It's got such a good vibe to it. Not too big, with both indoor and outdoor areas to sit at with a gin or cocktail in hand. The furniture includes oversized retro lounge chairs, high tables with stools and cafe tables and chairs. They have a room for private functions and have recently introduced bar food. Not to mention they bring in various food vans, different musicians, offer gin making tours, and host painting workshops.
We've been fortunate to collaborate with BMGC since December 2024, bringing our southern Italian food to guests, with cocktails created for each event. The food has ranged from finger food, hearty oven baked meals and cocktail style. Our next event will be held as an Italian Summer Lunch one week before Christmas, helping to ease us into that holiday feel we are all looking forward to.
Are you picturing yourself in a light and breezy frock paired with beach sandals? Hair tied back, classic sunglasses on and matching handbag. Admittedly, I rarely use a handbag other than my everyday one (which is not particularly elegant, but basic black leather), mainly because the phone usually can't fit into those gorgeous looking dress purses. But our guests do go to this effort, which has not gone unnoticed.
So gather your friends and take time out over a leisurely three hours for an afternoon of Italian traditional summer foods, coupled with an aperitivo (Italian for cocktail).
With capacity at 25, we suggest you book today if this sounds like your idea of Summer.
Bookings close on December 10th. Full menu inclusions are on the link.
See you there!
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