I have a problem.

I’ve recently learned the psychological term for it is “unrelenting standards”. It’s the part of me that sets out to write a simple list of where we ate in Doha while filming MasterChef, but ends up producing a full-blown travel guide. It’s the voice in my head that nudges me to further provide local Melbourne suggestions — Qatar’s not on everyone’s travel list — before interrupting itself to make sure there are recommendations for readers not in Melbourne, too. “Scroll down for more!” she prompts, having prioritised content over brushing her hair for three days.

The thing is, I’m greedy for information. I could easily spend a month researching and writing about the most minuscule topic. I’m trying not to be too hard on myself because my “problem” is also the reason you’ll never eat a bad meal out with me, or stand around in another country asking, “now what?” (let me just consult my list…). It’s why I’m on the scent of meaningful restaurants — not just the new ones — and why I’ve ended up eating for a living.

Still, I definitely need to chill out. I haven’t quite figured out what that looks like, but I know you guys love stories like this one about a tiny Japanese onigiri cafe in Brunswick’s backstreets, and this off-the-eaten-path neighbourhood food guide of Paris. Why am I telling you all this? I suppose it’s twofold. Firstly, we are on this journey together. Seasoned Traveller is 100 per cent my baby, which means if you let me know what you’d like to see more of by replying to this email, I can make that happen. Secondly, it’s a reminder that even the best job in the world can sometimes still feel like a job, and that no one is immune from feeling a little “meh” now and then.

Without further ado, because I tend to “ado” the furthest, please enjoy this detailed newsletter, courtesy of my unrelenting standards.

Before travelling to Doha to film MasterChef, my longest visits were limited to eating Lebanese food at the airport during layovers to Europe. I’d never thought much about the cuisine — I could barely name a dish. So I deep dived. Really deep. I made sure no off-camera meal was wasted. I went back through 7000 years of history to understand why Qatari people eat the way they do. And — to do away with modesty for a moment — I nailed it. Here’s everything you could possibly need for a delicious Doha stopover.

Colombian pork schnitzels bigger than plates, a courtyard swirling with Spanish, and regulars-turned-friends. A huge gracias to Juan and his team at Del Alma for introducing me to everything they love about their home through food. In just one year, this cafe has built a beautiful community and become a slice of South America in Prahran, but with visa uncertainty looming, it’s already time for the next chapter.

I’m snacking on… Instant buckwheat noodles. I bought these instant Korean noodles on a whim from Maita Asian grocer, but they’re at Jessica Market in the CBD also (Google “Woobul Restaurant Cold Buckwheat Noodles” to see if they’re anywhere near you). The noodles are bouncy and firm, and the seasoning is a packet of umami-rich soba dressing mixed with a flavour block to create a dipping sauce. There’s a touch of texture from daikon and seaweed, with a decent hit of wasabi. My new favourite snack!

I’m obsessed with… Dan Jamieson’s Hate Plates. This UK artist has certainly found a niche. Hate Plates are part art, part vent, and all sass. There are a variety available on his website, or you could commission something special for someone you love (or hate?!). I'm a particularly big fan of the plate below.

I’m eating… Zelda Bakery's savoury knishes in Balaclava. The wonderful Dani Valent introduced me to Zelda’s flaky pastry bombs, made with dutch cream potatoes and caramelised onion. I also love the slippery texture of the mushroom version (I know mushrooms have fallen out of favour lately, but oh well, more for me). Try these Ukranian/Ashkenazi treats with mustard. Pre-order available.

I’m coveting… Revelot's Hexmariner Durian watch. I’ve never really been a watch person — sorry, “timepiece” — but I’ll make an exception for this limited edition wrist candy that pays tribute to Malaysia’s most iconic and divisive fruit. Launching momentarily, here.

I’m listening to… Halliday Wine Companion’s new podcast. I loved hearing my dear mate and Halliday editor, Anna Webster, host the first episode. She interviews Giant Steps’ head winemaker, Melanie Chester, over a glass. The pod is the perfect balance of informative for newbies and interesting for connoisseurs. This one is shaping up to be a wonderfully unsnobby, easy-listening insight into Australian wine.

The Little Food Market (July 18-20)
I’m pumped to browse the stalls at The Little Food Market this weekend and see what original products Australia’s tastemakers are bringing to the table. I’ll be the one with my mouth full, hunting down interesting new snacks and condiments. It’s on at the Royal Exhibition Building.

Free empanadas for Argie's 1st Birthday (July 19)
Melbourne COVID success story, Argie’s, is turning one on Saturday. To celebrate they're giving away 200 free empanadas from 11am. There will also be wine tastings, prizes, surprises, and all around good times. 436 Bridge Road, Richmond.

Wednesday laksa nights at Etta (Wednesday nights in Winter)
Book ahead for Wednesday laksa night at Etta in Brunswick. Head chef Lorcan Kan serves just 20 bowls a sitting ($30), with skewers available as sides, including house-made fish balls, spicy arrowhead squid and grilled satay chook.

300 Grams “Anti-Macca’s” meal deal (lunchtime Monday to Thursday)
In response to McDonald's opening on High Street in Northcote, local burger shop 300 Grams is offering a "Happier Meal" for a limited time. They're price matching Macca’s largest combo, with legit smash-patty burgers, fries and a drink for $15. Available noon to 3pm, Monday to Thursday, at the Northcote and Richmond stores.

See The Story of Souleymane at Palace Cinemas (now showing)
The Story of Souleymane is a French film that follows an asylum seeker from Guinea (Abou Sangaré) in the lead up to his hearing. He illegally rents a food-delivery driver profile from a fellow migrant and cycles around Paris, seeking shelter and desperately trying to get by. One critic recently dubbed it one of the best films they've seen this year, awarding the film 4.5/5 stars.