Matt Preston, Bob Hart and other culinary experts served traditional Danish hotdogs at Melbourne’s Federation Square promoting Denmark as a culinary destination

Did you catch sight of the old school Danish pølsevogn (hotdog stand) as it glistened in the sun, on the last few days of the Melbourne summer? Usually seen on the city streets of Copenhagen, this unique stand brought a Taste of Denmark to Melbournians from Monday 5th March to Friday 9th March., and over $1,700 was raised for the Alannah and Madeline Foundation

Matt Preston’s (Masterchef judge) presence caused a mini riot as people, strained to catch a glimpse of the larger-than-life culinary commentator when he manned the hotdog stand. Adam Aamann (head chef of Aamann’s, Copenhagen) was there to give Preston a few hints and pointers on how to construct the perfectly balanced hotdog.

As Mette Dyrberg, international exchange student, exclaimed ‘I was so surprised to see a pølsevogn (hotdog stand) here in Melbourne – It reminds me of home, it’s a Copenhagen icon’.

Everyone from children to business people, grandparents to tourist, students to retirees were able to relax in the comfy deck chairs, hotdog in hand and watch clips about Denmark on the Big Screen. Shorts film about everything from design to cuisine, bicycles to architecture gave a little taste of what Denmark, as a destination has to offer.

The old-fashioned hotdog stand was a great contrast to the four “New Nordic” chefs, incl. René Redzepi from the World’s best restaurant Noma, that had been brought out from Denmark to host masterclasses etc. during the ever so popular Melboune Food & Wine Festival

All in the Name of Charity

With crowds snaking along the Federation Square Forecourt, the hotdog stand sold out each day, with over 160 hotdogs being swapped for a gold coin donation daily. With some patrons coming back several times throughout the week to satisfy their craving whilst supporting a worthy cause.

Taste of Denmark was supporting the Alannah and Madeline Foundation, a national charity protecting children from violence and its devastating effects. Her Royal Highness Princess Mary is the international patron of the foundation and when in Sydney, late last year was seen enjoying a Danish hotdog, at the very same hotdog stand.

Taste of Denmark was proudly brought to Melbourne by VisitDenmark, Denmark House, Emirates and Wonderful Copenhagen – showcasing everything which the uniquely modern and beautiful Scandinavian country has to offer.