In the vegan cooking class you would want to explore vibrant spices, create beautiful sauces, work with fresh vegetables, tofu and beans. Otao Kitchen is specialise in Asian cooking so you can inspire your kitchen with  Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Indian dishes.

Balinese food is more than a meal—it's a celebration. Rooted in ceremony, community, and spice, the cuisine of Bali is a vibrant blend of indigenous traditions and external influences from China, India, and across the Indonesian archipelago.

At Otao Kitchen, we honour these traditions in our hands-on Southeast Asian cooking classes, where you’ll discover how to prepare iconic Balinese dishes using authentic ingredients and time-honoured techniques.

Let’s explore the key ingredients that give Balinese cuisine its unforgettable flavour—and how you can bring them into your home kitchen.

If you keep it simple and buy ingredients at farmers’ markets, the food can pretty much take care of itself. Do as little as possible to the food; consider leaving out an ingredient and relying on instinct. We have a list of shopping streets and farmer markets in Melbourne for you.

If you're craving melt-in-your-mouth sushi, slurp-worthy ramen, or an unforgettable omakase experience, Melbourne’s Japanese restaurant scene will not disappoint. This vibrant city is home to some of the finest Japanese eateries in Australia, from intimate chef’s counters to bustling izakayas. Whether you're planning a special night out or just searching for your next ramen fix, here’s your ultimate eating guide to Japanese restaurants in Melbourne — updated for 2025.

Is Culinary Arts the Career for You?

From the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread to the artistic flair of fine dining, the food industry captures more than just taste—it inspires careers and fuels lifelong passions. With its rich tapestry of roles ranging from creative to scientific, this dynamic field offers opportunities for just about every interest and skill set. As the world increasingly prioritises sustainability, food safety, and innovation, the food industry is at the forefront—making it an ideal space for those eager to make a meaningful impact.

Beyond the obvious paths in cooking, careers in the food sector include many that aren’t always top of mind. Executive chefs and food stylists tap into the creative spirit, while food scientists and flavour chemists dive into the technical elements that bring ingredients to life. Whether your goal is to open a delivery-based restaurant or lead the next generation of sustainable food practices, this industry offers diverse and exciting career possibilities.

In this article, we’ll explore a range of career paths—from recipe development and food styling to food safety and sustainability—while outlining the skills you’ll need to thrive in each. Get ready to discover your niche in a world where purpose and passion go hand-in-hand.

Travel to Vietnam: Experience Culture, Heritage, Nature—and Extraordinary Food

Travel to Vietnam and you’ll step into a world rich in tradition, stunning landscapes, and culinary wonders. Whether it’s the vibrant chaos of Hanoi, the tranquillity of Sapa, or the spice-laden markets of Saigon, every moment is a cultural immersion.

At Otao Kitchen, we bring the Vietnamese food journey to life right here in Melbourne, so you can taste and learn before (or after) you travel.