Chef Danielle Alvarez standing proudly in front of the iconic white sails of the Sydney Opera House under a clear blue sky in Sydney, New South Wales, wearing a white chef jacket and smiling warmly. © Danielle Alvarez

Danielle Alvarez, Sydney, New South Wales © Danielle Alvarez

Ask an expert: Food & beverage trends for 2024

Danielle Alvarez, the new culinary director for events at the Sydney Opera House, gave us a moment of her time to talk about the food and beverage trends that we’ll see popping up at business events in Australia during 2024.

Tell us about yourself and your role

Born in Miami to Cuban parents, my family is all about food. My culinary journey took me to California where I learned the significance of sustainability, fresh produce and working with farmers. I fell in love with the old techniques: farm-to-table cooking and using fire in the kitchen. I moved to Australia 10 years ago and now head up food and events at the Sydney Opera House for Trippas White. One of the first places I visited in Sydney, if you had told me then I would be working here I wouldn’t have believed it!

A vibrant spread of fresh produce displayed on a wooden platter in Caversham, Swan Valley, Western Australia. Native bush foods, colourful tomatoes, and local produce jars feature in full sunlight. © Tourism Australia

Caversham, Swan Valley, Western Australia © Tourism Australia

What’s unique about Australia’s food scene?

Australia’s food scene is truly special. It has the longest standing culture over 60 000 years old. It's this beautiful amalgamation of cultures, flavours, and ingredients that you won’t find anywhere else. It’s a place where traditions meet innovation, a melting pot with Asian fusion, the younger meeting the older world techniques. Every bite tells a story of the local farmer and their commitment to quality.

How are menus evolving to cater to diverse dietary needs?

With dietary needs on the rise, our menus have become more inclusive. We’re mindful of these needs and work to ensure our offerings cater to everyone without compromising taste or quality.

How does food and beverages help to shape a business event?

Food has this incredible power to set the tone for an event. When you put care into it, it resonates. It can turn an ordinary event into something truly memorable. You just need to plan ahead, be confident and ensure that you get that extra ingredient that makes it special. I honestly think food can make or break the night - if you go over and beyond people will love the event and continue to talk about it.

Chef Danielle Alvarez standing outside the glass doors of the Sydney Opera House in Sydney, New South Wales, wearing a white jacket and smiling warmly as reflections of guests and the harbour bridge glow in the warm evening light. © Danielle Alvarez

Danielle Alvarez, Sydney, New South Wales © Danielle Alvarez

What are the new food trends coming for business events in 2024?

At Trippas White Group and Yallamundi Rooms we are exploring innovative ways to merge various elements - music, art, food, and cutting-edge tech like AI, augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR) - to create bespoke experiences that stimulate all the senses. These tools elevate the event experience, leaving attendees with an immersive and impactful memory.

How does sustainability feature in the food offering for events?

Sustainability is the backbone of our offerings, and something I personally always strive to work towards. It starts with supporting local farmers who genuinely care about the future. We focus on sourcing produce that’s in season, minimising our environmental footprint while highlighting the stories of those who nurture the land.

Lush green grapevine rows stretch across rolling hills beneath towering gum trees and a bright blue sky at Kilikanoon Wines in Penwortham, Clare Valley, South Australia. © Tourism Australia

The Kilikanoon Wines, Penwortham, Clare Valley, South Australia © Tourism Australia

What can guests look forward to seeing fill their glass in 2024?

We’re passionate about featuring producers who are a part of Sustainable Wine Growing Australia: Shaw + Smith, Tyrrells, Pernod Ricard Winemakers, Handpicked wines or employ sustainable practices in the vineyard – Pikes, Hesketh Wines and Kilikanoon. Also, there’s a rising trend in top-notch non-alcoholic options, providing diverse choices for guests.

What tips would you give an event planner when briefing their food and beverage needs for an event?

Communication is key. Work closely with the chef, to understand their capabilities, and collaborate on offerings that align with the event’s goals. Ensure variety in beverages, covering different tastes and preferences. Try to cover all bases. One Sparkling, Rosé Two Whites and Two Reds (opposite in style: think Riesling and Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon). If it’s cocktails and canapés focus on Sparkling, Spritzes and local brews.

A stylish dining space at Botanic House, Sydney, New South Wales, featuring high angled ceilings, a lush botanical installation overhead, warm timber accents, and soft, inviting interior lighting. © Botanic House

Tell us about your exclusive venues for business events.

We have 16 iconic premium venues for events, but here is a taste. At the Sydney Opera House, The Yallamundi Rooms have various event spaces and harbour views. Taronga Zoo, the event spaces boast magnificent views over Sydney. Botanic House in the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney near the city centre. Bar 83 at Sydney Tower, located 83 levels above the city, a striking ambiance with revolving views, suitable for events and dining.