Tropicale Italiano – The Long Lunch
When
Where
Cost
Say ciao to the ultimate Italian feast! La Dolce Vita – The Long Lunch returns to the Cairns Italian Festival in 2025, bringing back a stylish, sun-drenched afternoon celebrating the very best of Italian food, wine and hospitality.
Set in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, this signature event is all about gathering around the table with friends old and new to indulge in a generous, share-style Italian dining experience. Expect multiple courses inspired by Italy’s rich culinary traditions, thoughtfully paired with beautiful wines and complemented by lively entertainment that captures the spirit of la dolce vita — the sweet life.
From the first sip to the final bite, La Dolce Vita – The Long Lunch is designed to be more than just a meal. It’s a celebration of flavour, community and culture — where long conversations, laughter and music flow as freely as the wine.
Whether you’re a devoted foodie, a lover of Italian culture, or simply looking for an unforgettable afternoon out, this is your invitation to slow down, savour every moment and experience one of the festival’s most anticipated events.
Come hungry, leave happy — that’s la dolce vita!
Mayor Event Sponsor
Menu
Cicchetti
Pane Brioche, Tuna Tartare, Nocciola Mayo & Ponzu
Parmigiana Tart, Parmigiana Crumble, Pecorino Romano & Parmigiano Reggiano Sauce, Tomato Sugo & Basil
Primo
Tortelli di Zucca & ’Nduja, Pecorino Consommé, Roasted Pumpkin, Pepitas & Chilli Oil
Secondo
Free Range Ducketta, Chestnut & Celeriac Purée, Pickled Turnips, Puffed Wild Rice & Jus
Baby Barramundi Fillet, Gazpacho Rosso, Chilli Threads & Basil Oil
Contorni
Pan Fried Broccolini, Preserved Lemon, Pecorino & Roasted Almonds
Brussels Sprouts, Salsa al Limone & Crispy Guanciale
Dolce
Classic Tiramisu, Salted Caramelised White Chocolate
Panna Cotta, Amarena & Basil
Inclusions:
Entertainers
Romano Brothers
Adding a distinctive sound to the Cairns Italian Festival, Romano Bros. bring the vibrant spirit of Sicily to life through music. Born from a creative partnership between brothers Angelo and Marco Romano, this Sicilian pop‑rock band blends influences from pop, rock, funk, jazz, Latin rhythms and Mediterranean sounds to create a lively and memorable performance.
Since forming in 1999, Romano Bros. have built a strong reputation through their dynamic live shows and original music, producing songs that reflect their heritage and musical journey — from early performances across Sicily to national recognition and recording projects that capture their eclectic style and rich cultural roots.
Their music honors Sicilian tradition with contemporary energy, making them a perfect fit for our festival stage. Expect an engaging mix of rhythms, passionate vocals, and the infectious joy of Italian music that will have the crowd moving and celebrating together.
Mike Rivett & Dj Lukeh
Adding a fresh and electrifying soundtrack to your festival night, Mike Rivett and Lukeh bring their unique musical talents to the dance floor, blending creativity, groove, and cutting‑edge beats for an unforgettable experience.
Mike Rivett is a highly respected Australian musician, composer and DJ with deep roots in jazz, electronic production and live performance. Based in Cairns, Mike has toured and performed extensively around the world, and is known for his creative command over sound — combining saxophone, synths and electronic elements with deep rhythmic sensibilities. As a DJ, Mike spins a dynamic mix of house, tech house, bass music and minimal electronic styles, weaving original productions and curated tracks to create sets that are both immersive and rhythmically engaging.
Lukeh is a versatile North Queensland‑based DJ and producer with a passion for house music in its many forms. His sets blend deep, groovy rhythms with progressive, minimal, melodic and ambient elements, reflecting his journey through electronic music and his commitment to creating engaging, dance‑friendly experiences. Known for integrating live instrumentation and original productions into his performances, Lukeh’s sound bridges the worlds of groove, texture and energy, keeping crowds moving and fully immersed in the vibe.
Together, Mike Rivett and Lukeh deliver a night of dynamic beats, deep grooves and eclectic soundscapes, perfect for festival celebrations, dancefloors, and late‑night energy. Their combined styles ensure a celebration that’s as rich in atmosphere as it is in rhythm.