BOOKS & IDEAS: Ben Shewry, presented in partnership with The Wheeler Centre

Ben Shewry, the renowned chef-owner of Melbourne’s Attica, comes to Montalto to serve up insights into his innovative approach to dining over a delicious two-course menu.

Ben Shewry’s newest book, Uses For Obsession, explores the obsessive drive that has enabled his Melbourne restaurant Attica to become world-renowned, and a beloved dining experience.

In this special edition of Books & Ideas at Montalto, Shewry is joined by Erik Jensen, writer, editor and an avowed food enthusiast – just take a look at his minimalist Instagram carousels for recipe inspirations – as they digest Shewry’s illustrious career and his deep passion for fostering an equitable and inclusive hospitality community.

Ben Shewry is an internationally renowned chef, restaurateur, husband, father, son, brother, friend and creative obsessive. He tries to be direct, honest, respectful, loving, silly, resilient and real. His CV includes owner of Attica in Melbourne's inner suburban Ripponlea (since 2015), writer of two books (Origin in 2012 and Uses for Obsession in 2024), semi-pro playlist builder, amateur filmmaker, part-time photographer and full-time renovator. He also holds the world record for desperate Covid side hustles.

Erik Jensen is an award-winning journalist, biographer, poet and screenwriter. He is the founding editor of The Saturday Paper and editor-in-chief of Schwartz Media. He is the author of Acute Misfortune: The Life and Death of Adam Cullen, On Kate Jennings and The Prosperity Gospel. His first collection of poems is I Said the Sea Was Folded.

$139 per person, inclusive of two course shared dinner. Beverages on consumption.

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