Award-winning MasterChef Australia alumni Anna Polyviou is part of a guest speaker line-up at The Bali Collective – a six-day Bali retreat held in March.
It’s a chance to network and take a break from the rat race, while connecting with women in media, food and wellbeing as they share their leadership stories and business strategies.
Anna spoke to The Write Drop for our At The Bar series.
MY CITY
Melbourne will always be home. The people are creative, welcoming and unapologetically themselves. Add graffiti-covered laneways, hidden bars, fashion, late-night eats and incredible independent shops, and you’ve got a city that constantly feels alive and inspiring. There’s always something new waiting just around the corner. And now, with all the gelato stores opening everywhere, how could you not fall in love all over again? I live in Sydney, although I was born in Melbourne and somehow, it will always feel like home.
FAVOURITE FOOD MEMORY
My mum’s cooking. No restaurant could ever compete. Growing up Greek meant food was never just food it was love, tradition and family all rolled into one. One of my strongest memories is her freshly made halloumi, milk from the farm, turned into warm, salty cheese and cooked simply. Unforgettable and still something I rave about. Then there’s the garden produce, the smell of Dad cooking souvla on the BBQ, beer in hand, us kids circling, picking at everything before it even hit the table. Priceless moments that stay with you forever.
FAVOURITE BAR
If I’m at a bar, I’m ordering a Negroni always. In Sydney, Bar Conte is a standout. Negroni focused, cult following, no fuss just great drinks and great energy. Then there’s Maybe Sammy, where it’s all about killer cocktails and snacks, but with a vibe that delivers a completely different experience.
DRINK THAT DESCRIBES YOU
A Negroni. bold, balanced and never overly sweet. Confident, classic and a little bitter in the best way. It knows exactly what it is and doesn’t try to be anything else.
BEST HANGOVER CURE
Very specific. Very effective. Two Nurofen, two Panadol, an icy-cold Coke Zero, and a Zinger burger with cheese the full Zinger box. Extra seasoning on the fries is non-negotiable.
BEST INTERSTATE BAR
Black Pearl in Melbourne. Iconic for a reason incredible cocktail, relaxed vibes and consistently one of the best bars in the country. Familiar, but always special. Also love Curious at the W Hotel Melbourne, and Eau De Vie a true hidden gem that’s been around forever and still delivers every time.
FAVOURITE WINE
A beautiful Pinot Noir shared with friends and family. The kind of wine that disappears quickly because the conversation is flowing and no one’s watching the glass.
FAVOURITE WINERY
Penfolds Magill Estate, Adelaide. Talked about for a reason – stunning location, rich history and seriously memorable wines. A must-visit, especially for their Pinot Noir.
NEXT DESTINATION
Bali for Bali Collective.
I’m partnering with Travelglobe to experience six days of restoration, inspiration, and connection in Bali’s most uplifting setting five nights of 5-star luxury at Le Méridien Jimbaran Bay, daily breakfast and full access to our three-day curated program featuring Australia’s most inspiring women. With a panel discussion including Jules Robertson, Heidi Anderson, Danni Duncan, Maree Sortino, Donna Demaio interactive workshops, culinary experience and more. On March 21st till the 26th 2026.
I’ll be cooking a long lunch or dinner, alongside a masterclass and it’s truly an experience you don’t want to miss. Let’s not forget the relaxing side of lush pool and relaxing massages too.
