Where I confess that I'm a Masterchef addict...

Yes, I'm confessing that I watch Masterchef.

Not religiously mind you (it makes me too hungry),  but I do love to tune in occasionally to watch mere mortals battle their little culinary hearts outs.

I really love it when they crack under the pressure (schnitzel!  OMG I can't make a schnitzel!)

Hilarious.  

A few days ago they aired an episode where the remaining seven had to fight for a guaranteed spot in the finals next week.

Guest judges were some of the worlds best chefs - Kylie Kwong, Jacques Reymond, Mark Best and Alla Wolf Tasker.

The contestants shed blood, sweat and tears while preparing their dishes.  

Oh dear, Calum had a mini break down over dropped pheasant pies.  

But what I really loved about this episode was seeing the guest judges restaurants.  These chefs are some of the most talented and inspired in their industry and we're so lucky their restaurants are here in Australia.

Lucky for you guys, we've also tracked down amazing luxury accommodation near these fine dining establishments.  

Here are my two favourites out of the group in Victoria.

Jacques Reymond - Jacques Reymond Cuisine du Temps Restaurant 78 Williams Rd Prahran VIC.  

Jacques has introduced a new approach to fine dining, offering entree size dishes only allowing diners to sample a wide variety of dishes.

The restaurant occupies a stately Victorian mansion with extensively landscaped gardens, open fireplaces and a private car park. 

The menu combines impeccable cooking with a playful use of flavours and ingredients from Europe and Asia.  It's occasion dining without the stuffiness.

Where to stay....

Alla Wolf Tasker - Lake House, King St, Daylesford Victoria. 

The restaurant that Alla and husband Allen founded enjoys international acclaim.

Situated in the heart of Spa Country in Daylesford, Lake House offers magnificent views from its terraces and windows across the lake.  

The team of cooks work to produce everything on the premises with strong seasonal produce driven menus. Dishes are 'masterly in composition and captivating in their appeal'.  The Lake House is a country restaurant with world class standards.

This month they are featuring Masterclasses and a celebration of truffles and an exclusive cellar dinner with top wine expert Matt Paul.

Where to stay...

That's it from me, I'm off to watch the telly, bon appetit!