Over 800,000 flocked to Crave SIFF in 2013

According to organisers, Crave International Food Festival (SIFF) has been a massive hit this year, attracting over 800,000 to 500 events driving revenue for the State.

Festival director Joanna Savill said the success of the month-long festival, Australia’s largest of its kind, is evidence that food events are a significant way to engage both the community and visitors.

“Crave Sydney is an important way to highlight the ongoing potential for Sydney, as Australia’s most globally recognised dining destination, and to encourage visitor spending on one of our state’s biggest assets – fantastic chefs, restaurants and fine regional produce” Saville told noodlies, Sydney food blog.

david chang crave siff
David Chang of Momofuku, photo from cravesydney.com

The Night Noodle Markets accounted for a quarter of the Festival numbers, its extended 13-night format attracted over 200,000 visitors with 40,000 alone on the final night (19 October).  Highlights include:

  • Night Noodle Market: 200,000 visitors
  • Breakfast on Bondi: 5,000
  • Inaugural Dine en Blanc (White Diner) on the front lawn of the MCA, Sydney: 1,500
  • Community Festivals around Sydney and regional NSW: 50,000 peopled enjoyed the inaugural Food Trucks event in George Street

Crave SIFF (1-31 October) is a month-long celebration of extraordinary food experiences and one of the five signature events in the NSW Events Calendar.