Fine Dining Goes Alfresco At The Spring Night Markets

"Street Eats" and "Fine Dining" aren't often uttered in the same breath, but thanks to the growing popularity of night markets, haute cuisine is increasingly going alfresco. If there's one man who understands the successful formula for taking world class food to the great outdoors, it's acclaimed Sydney chef and Creative Director of the Carriageworks Farmers Market, Mike McEnearney. Offering a second bite of the cherry to the hordes of Sydney foodies who descended on Carriageworks for the Winter Night Markets in June - some 9000 punters per night - McEnearney has unveiled a killer line-up of mouthwatering fare for a one-night-only Spring instalment. He gives The Music a taste of what's being served up.

Having to surround yourself with NSW's finest eats is a tough job, but someone's got to do it! What's the best perk of your role curating Carriageworks' markets?

Meeting local producers who make a difference. These stallholders have such integrity and infectious passion for their produce. They love telling the story behind who they are. It's the real deal.

There's not just top notch nosh on offer - there's a host of winemakers, mixologists and artisan distillers also on the roll call. Is making sure there're some good tipples available a must for an after-dark event like this?

The most important thing in life is balance, which is why we have great breweries, distilleries and local bars, alongside out regular stall holders, to add to the fun. There is something for everyone, even a juice if you are on the wagon.

There's a big mix of culinary delights on offer, with cuisines from all around the world represented. How do you go about finding the right mix?

We invite people who share the same core values about food and wine. It's about sourcing local and championing artisan producers.

The Spring Markets are a one-night food fiesta, and attendance promises to be as off the charts as it was in June for the Winter Markets. What insider top tips can you give to people looking to maximise the experience and beat the crowds?

You can essentially treat it like a roaming dinner. Start with a beer and a snack, have a cocktail to get you digestive juices moving, grab some more food with a glass of wine. You can even finish the night with a cup of tea.

In your expert opinion, what are the most exciting food trends currently, and where can we try them out at the Spring Night Market?

The trend is source local. There is a lot of backlash these days against big supermarkets and mass-producers. Let's face it, we need to take care of our planet and have as little impact on it as possible, and our stall holders play their part.

What: Spring Night Markets

Where: Carriageworks

When: 3 Sep