A sold-out audience of familiar faces and newcomers gathered at the University Club of Western Australia for an extraordinary culinary journey that will never be repeated. The Round the World Dinner, held on Wednesday November 12, 2025, focused exclusively on European destinations accessible through Albatross Tours.
A Night of European Discovery
The evening represented a significant commitment from travel partners, with four senior representatives flying in specifically for the event. Most attendees, however, lived closer to the University Club venue, where the banquet hall transformed into a portal to Europe through coordinated efforts from chef Costa Simatos, musician Steve Richter, and Travel editor Stephen Scourfield.
The multi-sensory experience began with an English breakfast creation from chef Simatos, accompanied by Stephen Scourfield's atmospheric recreation of Britain's dawn chorus. This innovative start set the tone for an evening where every sense would be engaged.
Culinary Journey Across Four Nations
The gastronomic tour progressed through carefully curated courses representing different European regions. Following the English starter, guests savored a delicate Norwegian fish course that highlighted the Vikings' traditional air-drying preservation methods.
The journey continued to Venice with a duck dish that evoked the life and history of the Venetian Lagoon. Scourfield enriched the experience by sharing fascinating details about the "submerged forest" of wooden piles that have supported Venice for approximately 1600 years.
The final destination proved to be Provence, France, where dessert arrived in the form of a traditional cherry clafoutis. Throughout the meal, Steve Richter's music filled the room while Scourfield transported diners with vivid storytelling, including tales of warm evenings in Arles.
Creating Unforgettable Connections
The unique format of serving food while performers remained on stage allowed aromas to mingle with music and stories, creating what organizers described as a "visceral experience." This approach fostered a special connection between readers, writers, the chef, and musician that resonated throughout the evening.
The Round the World Dinner succeeded in its mission to bring people together through shared experiences of travel, cuisine, and storytelling. The sold-out event demonstrated Perth's appetite for immersive cultural experiences that engage all the senses while building community connections.
