QV & A: Ailene Wu

Ailene is a prolific food blogger and influencer, exploring great places to eat in and around Melbourne. Through photos and videos on social media, she takes her followers on inspired dining adventures, celebrating diverse tastes and cuisines. We caught up with Ailene to find out more about her favourite dining destinations and quick eats at QV.

Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do.
I’m a food blogger at @melbfoodieee, exploring and sharing my food adventures on TikTok and Instagram. I’m now in my second year of university, and being in the heart of the city, I’m surrounded by amazing cafes and restaurants, especially at QV Melbourne.

When did you first start creating content in social media? How did your Instagram and TikTok become so popular?
I started @melbfoodieee during my gap year. I was just doing my own thing, it took off and now here I am. It’s been incredible so far and I’m experiencing something new all the time.

Why do you blog or create content about food?
It’s really my creative outlet. I love food and I love telling stories about Melbourne. It is such a diverse city with a melting pot of cultures. I’ve lived here all my life and yet there are still so many things to be discovered. I wanted to share my own journey of discovery, and expose people to different cuisines and flavours. Food is a gateway to new experiences – each cuisine, each dish has a unique history.

How do you Define Your Different? What does self-expression mean to you?
To me, self-expression is about being true to myself, and growing into my own person. It is about showcasing your different personality, and being in touch with your roots, your heritage and culture. @melbfoodieee is a platform where I can be who I am. There is something comforting about that. QV is a great reflection of Melbourne’s cultural diversity, and this resonates with me and what I do.

Is there something people might not know about you?
While food is my passion, I’ve been modelling since I was sixteen. I’ve appeared in a number of Australian fashion campaigns. While I’m more known as a food blogger, I guess Ailene the model is my alter ego. That’s why I love QV Melbourne. It’s where my two worlds meet. Food and fashion.

What are your go-to restaurants at QV Melbourne?
My favourite place has to be Old Beijing. I also love Mumuyo for their healthy yoghurt smoothies and Aqua S for their Okinawan-inspired sea salt soft serves. For a late night hangout, there’s always San Churro.

Name a dish that you couldn’t live without at QV Melbourne.
It has to the fried rice at Old Beijing. It’s so simple, so nostalgic but done so well. They really know how to fire up their wok.

What is your favourite thing about Artemis Lane?
What I love most about Artemis Lane is the exciting street food vibe. So many different cuisines to choose from, and very diverse and authentic. There’s always a crowd. Sura Korean BBQ and Ippudo are great options for dining in.

What do you think makes QV uniquely Melbourne and enticing as a shopping and dining precinct?
QV has a real sense of community. There’s a nice, lively open-air space, a square for people to gather. Sometimes there’s live music or cute pop ups. It’s very relaxed yet vibrant. It’s really a one-stop destination with something for everyone.

Are there any hidden gems that you have discovered while at QV?
I love the ramen at Hakata Gensuke. It’s really inconspicuous, hidden away on Constance Stone Lane. You get to sit at the bar, watch the chefs do their thing, and just slurp your noodles.

What do you look for in a restaurant?
The food without doubt, and good service. I look for the total experience when I eat out. You can always expect excellent food and hospitality here at QV. I always leave with a smile on my face.

What would your typical day at QV Melbourne be like with your friends?
We’d probably start with a quick lunch at Papparich or Sushi Jiro, before exploring QV’s laneways for some retail therapy. We love hopping into Incu and acme de la vie. We may stop for snacks or a sweet treat in between, and end the day with a good dinner at one of QV’s restaurants. The possibilities are endless.

How does QV Melbourne help you to do what you love?
There is just so much variety and diversity when it comes to food. It’s not just the cafes and restaurants. I love the little takeaways with all the interesting, delicious things. There’s always something new to try or experience. So many different stories to share. It’s the place to be.