The Essential Ingredient Prahran

In 1990, a small family-owned and operated specialty ingredient store embarked on a journey in the heart of South Melbourne, namely, The Vital Ingredient. This marked the humble beginnings of a business that would come to represent a culinary bridge between continents. This unassuming store, founded by Syd and Susan Weddell - both passionate food enthusiasts - set out to source exquisite ingredients from the far corners of Italy, Spain and France and the bountiful farms throughout Australia. At that time, a simple Sunny Boy ice block could be bought for mere cents, Tiny Teddy’s hit our shelves and soon after, Maggie Beer, Stephanie Alexander and Donna Hay were tempting us with Middle Eastern, Chinese and European flavours to cook at home. It could be said however, that most of Australia still thought Curry was a surname!

Over the years, Melbourne has evolved into a vibrant culinary melting pot, embracing international cuisines with open arms. The Vital Ingredient (now The Essential Ingredient) has played a pivotal role in this gastronomic evolution, introducing the flavours of Europe to those wanting to embrace the new wave of global food trends using ingredients made with time-honoured techniques.   With dedication and an unwavering commitment to quality, the business has flourished, becoming a trusted supplier to some of the finest restaurants, hotels, and caterers across Australia. The best-of-the-best deserves the best FROM the best, which is why our client list may include your local, artisanal deli or specialty food store. The journey has been fuelled by a team of specialty staff who are not only brilliant home cooks but also obsessed foodies. Top that with the knowledge of our chefs on staff and The Essential Ingredient is your open cookbook, your real, live glossary of all things for your kitchen and dining know-how.

Our Prahran store is conveniently located adjacent to the bustling Prahran Market which provides a sun-drenched outdoor plaza featuring live music and activities for kids. South Melbourne offers a more tailored and streamlined store, just a short stroll from the South Melbourne Market with easy parking along one of the area’s most popular shopping strips.

As a market leader in specialty foods, cookware, dinnerware, and culinary books we celebrate our shared passion for all things food, and it is this passion that we bring to every aspect of our business. We invite you to experience the joy of better cooking at The Essential Ingredient.

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 CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

For Career Opportunities in our Victorian Retail Stores and Wholesale Division please email your resume to

vmackay@essentialingredientvic.com.au

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Tony Tan's Asian Cooking Class Book Launch @ The Essential Ingredient Prahran

Join us on the 22nd October 2024 at 5pm to hear Tony Tan discuss his latest masterpiece on Asian cookery.  Be delighted by food tastings straight from the book with an opportunity to have your copy personalised by Tony on the night.

Cost: $20

From 5pm till 7pm

Tickets available here: 

https://events.humanitix.com/tony-tan-s-asian-cooking-class-book-launch-the-essential-ingredient-prahran 

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 Prahran Cooking Events

Event space fully booked for 2024. Enquiries for 2025 are welcome.
We have on-going delicious in-store tastings and interactions in our Prahran store for you to experience. For Corporate Events in our purpose built Demonstration Kitchen please get in touch.  

Please contact Sam Francis - Retail Manager.
Phone: (03) 9827 9047
Email: mail@essentialingredientvic.com.au