Can you tell us a little about your background?
I was born and raised in Australia and then moved to NYC when I was 17. I grew up dancing and singing, and so had a dream of making it on Broadway (hence, the massive move to the big smoke!). It was definitely a challenge with many ups and downs, but I ended up living in New York and having a career in entertainment for over a decade. From there, I transitioned into the digital media world, working in social media, marketing and writing/editing for a variety of food, travel and lifestyle brands.
What path led you to becoming a lifestyle media personality?
I have always had a keen interest in all things relating to food and travel. I was super lucky to grow up and have a mum who encouraged travel as a part of learning to be a better person, so I’d say it was in my blood. Being a performer definitely helped with the ability to share a story or experience in a unique way, and so the rest has sort of progressed pretty organically!
How did your current career develop from your dancing and musical theater background?
With performing, I was always used to being able to share stories — whether it was from my shows or music for press and interviews, or just in excitement to friends, chatting about the places I was traveling to. My stories started in conversations, emails, in my own column in an Aussie magazine, and then when I was touring in a band, via our MySpace blog. (I know, haha… MySpace!) I found I tended to not only be writing about my performing, but also in depth stories about the places, people and especially all the amazing food I was able to enjoy! From there, I launched my own site The Aussie Who Ate The Big Apple and have been writing and sharing content via social media for years since.
What is it that attracts you to writing and sharing food and travel experiences?
It just seems natural to me. Like, if I go to Thailand and find an incredible street food vendor who is making the most unbelievable noodle soup from the back of a motorbike cart — I feel it’s something I want to share. I get so naturally excited about stumbling upon things like that, so being able to share them with people seems like the ultimate bonus. With travel being such a huge part of my life, I feel very connected to the places I get to see and want my friends, family and followers, to feel like they are getting a glimpse of those special moments as well.
How would you describe your work?
I’d like to think I write and share content that is interesting, authentic and valuable to my readers/followers. I love color, texture and of course, a little humor thrown in for good measure. I tend not to take myself too seriously, which flows into my brand voice and style. I want people to see me as approachable, fun, and like the friend you could meet in a dive bar in the middle of a no-name town and still have a blast!
How has your work evolved over time?
I definitely think my photography has improved dramatically. I look back at some of my first posts and even my instagram account a couple of years ago and have a little chuckle. It’s good to do that and really appreciate mistakes you may have made, how far you have come and the lessons you have learned along the way. I also think my ability to craft engaging copy in different forms has evolved as well.
Can you tell us about how you incorporate your passion for food and travel into your life?
Having passion in general is such a great attribute to have in your life — being able to find something unique, exciting or even remotely interesting in everyday things can be super inspiring. I try to go out into each day with a positive attitude, a sense of adventure and most importantly, the ability to ‘go with the flow’. Travel can be a mix of so many emotions — thrilling at times, completely exhausting at others, so being able to handle all that with grace is what I aim for. Do I always succeed? Haha… well that’s another story ;)
Are there any great stories you can tell us?
Well my journey so far has taken me to some pretty incredible places. I’ve been lucky to tour through 10 countries when I was singing in the band, which always gave me some good stories to tell. From eating sushi fresh from the tsukiji fish market in Tokyo at 5am and then going straight to a flight, enjoying a traditional bath house and slightly violent bubble-slapping massage in Istanbul, Turkey, fishing in Nicaragua (where I also got bit by a pet monkey), spending 3 hours searching for a specific noodle soup vendor in the middle of a busy Thai city, to scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef — I hope these little tidbits are only the beginning of a book of amazing stories and adventures one day!
Can you describe your style? Your vision?
My style is ever changing, but generally I try to keep things simple. I travel with carry-on only, so there’s not really room to pack a ton of options. I love neutral colors — black, white, tan, gray, navy. Then when I feel like a lift I will throw in some color with cobalt blues, or greens. When I think about my style with food, travel and pictures — I always love bright, colorful, crisp images that evoke movement or energy. My vision is all about producing high quality content, that educates, inspires and intrigues people to get out and explore a little more themselves. Whether it’s finally booking that trip they’ve been talking about, or even trying the little hole-in-the-wall Vietnamese noodle joint… if I can help be the little push they need, then I am happy!
Can you give us a little insight into what inspires you about food?
Food brings us all together. No matter where you grew up, what race, religion etc — we all eat. Mostly It’s a time when family and friends come together and people share their stories. I also love and get inspired by all the different flavors, colors, textures and styles of eating. I love to cook and experiment at home — it’s often a time of relaxation and almost meditation for me. Being able to plate and present something I have cooked for my boyfriend Kit, our friends or family makes me really happy. Grocery stores are exciting for me! Sometimes I go in with no set plan and just roam the aisles until something inspires me. I love learning new recipes, and I’m not afraid to spend a few hours making something by hand, and generally cook 4-5 nights a week when I am not on the road.
What are the differences you find between Australian and American dining and between the two countries in general?
Australia has some of the most incredible produce, meat and seafood I have ever come across. Growing up with this in my life, I never really knew any different until I started traveling. I think the beauty of Aussie dining is its multicultural inspiration. A huge influence from Southeast Asia, the Middle East and Eastern Europe. For a country so small (in population), we certainly have a lot of immigrants who bring absolutely amazing food culture to our everyday lives. I feel very blessed that I grew up with a varied palate! In the U.S. I have lived in two of the most delicious cities in the world — New York City and San Francisco. I spent almost 14 years eating all over New York City and could have tried a new restaurant every night without repeats or getting sick of it. NYC is so multiculutral as well — you could pretty much eat any kind of cuisine and get it at any time of the day! Being in SF the past year and a half, dining all through the Bay Area and into wine country, I may have a hard time declaring which one is the better food city. (I know NYC — I am sorry! I can’t help digging what SF has going!)
Overall I think both countries have the strengths and weaknesses, but I adore dining in either!
Can you tell us about some of your favorite places in New York and San Francisco?
Oh, absolutely! In NYC I love Zabb Elee in the East Village for Isaan Thai food, Flinders Lane for Aussie favorites, Shack Shack for burgers, Nom Wah Tea Parlor in Chinatown for Dim Sum, The Mermaid Inn for Oysters and happy hour fun! L’Apicio or Supper for a delicious Italian meal. On my most recent trip, I had a great meal at Virginia’s in Alphabet City, and Rosie’s for Mexican. In SF…. Causwells for an amazing burger, Swan Oyster Depot for chowder, oysters and Italian style sashimi. Liholiho Yacht Club for Hawaii/Indian fusion, Al’s Place for incredible seasonal veggies, Rangoon Ruby for Burmese food, A16 for pizza, pasta and great wine, Just Won Ton (a teeny spot in the Outer Sunset) for scrambled egg chow fun with shrimp and brisket noodle soup. Nopa for wine at the bar and a treat like steak or a pork chop. Taqueria Cancun for a Carne Asada super burrito. Bonus tip: Get it to go, with a tecate can in a brown bag and take it all to Delores Park for a picnic. Boom!
When people ask you for ideas when they visit Australia, do you have any recommendations?
My biggest recommendation is making sure you have time to explore. People think that a week in Australia is enough, and it most certainly is not. I just spent a month at home exploring and visiting friends and family, and I barely scratched the surface of Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Tasmania and my hometown of Bundaberg! Tasmania really surprised me — I had no idea how many absolutely incredible and untouched spots were there. It seems like their culinary scene is really booming too, with lots of festivals and dining experiences in and around the main cities there. A little biased, but I think Queensland has some of the most incredible beaches in the world, so definitely make time for a visit to somewhere like Noosa, or the Great Barrier Reef. In Brisbane I stayed at a gorgeous new addition to the Spicers Retreats family — the SILMA suites at the Spicers Balfour. Relaxed luxury is what they’re all about it definitely felt like it during my visit. In Sydney, I loved the newly opened Old Clare Hotel with industrial modern touches, high lofty ceilings and super sexy egg shaped tubs for long soaks with a glass of vino. HELLO, bliss.
What does a typical day at work entail?
It really depends on the day and where I am in the world. On a perfect day, I would get up around 8 and meditate before opening any electronics, so I can pre set my mind for the day. Then I’ll check and respond to emails over coffee, take phone meetings, write posts, craft content for my clients and maybe head to a yoga or exercise class during lunch. At night there’s a chance of an event or two for a restaurant opening, or press dinner to cover — and if not, you’ll find me at home cooking up something delicious for my boyfriend Kit and I, which we enjoy with a bottle of wine and some Netflix binge-watching! Sometimes though when traveling, I’ll be up at 6am responding to emails on U.S. time or staying up for a call at 2am if I am working from the other side of the world. It depends, and I feel lucky to have schedule that I can tailor to my lifestyle.
Can you list five resources across any media that you turn to regularly for creative inspiration?
I love travel and food publications like Travel and Leisure, Food and Wine and Lucky Peach. I also use Instagram as a source of inspiration and local knowledge in new cities. (That geo-tagging search is a great way to find great restaurants and food spots!) TV Shows like No Reservations, Parts Unknown, Bizarre Food always get my interest in gear too. Other than that, my iPhone with all its apps and cool services keep me connected and organized for all my travels and adventures.
Are there any local or other artists, photographers, bloggers, filmmakers, designers or creative people that inspire you?
I have quite a few people in life I admire, idolize, and look to as a source of inspiration for the things I strive to create. Anthony Bourdain is up there on the leader board. When people ask me what my absolute dream job would be, regardless of money — I always look to him. Being able to travel the world, meeting and connecting with people of other cultures, and all the while eating outrageously delicious food and telling stories about it…. HELLO??!!??? Who am I kidding… He’s my spirit animal. He tells it like it is, New York style. He uses the word “f$%king” like a perfect seasoning on the most juicy delicious steak. He’s extremely intelligent, talented, and now, since having a child, has really defined exactly the kind of stories he wants to tell, and why he wants to tell them. I dig it.
I also have a lot of friends who are writers, photographers and storytellers. The kids at Infatuation are doing some awesome things, and I feel lucky to have contributed some features for them in SF. My friend Samantha Wills is an Aussie businesswoman who has created a jewelry and design empire. Her eye and vision for all things that sparkle is super inspiring. My friend Emily from The Jetsetting Fashionista is probably one of the most hardworking people I know. This girl never stops and constantly has something in the works whether it’s a cool event idea, a chef interview, a travel post or collaboration. I also love the site Inside Elsewhere, created by my friends from NYC — Christina and Thomas. It’s a super chic but approachable site with all the best places to explore, stay, dine and drink at in unique places across the globe.
What is your proudest career achievement to date?
You know that’s a hard question! I have been really lucky to (for the most part) have worked in jobs that I loved and was really passionate about. I had a dream come true when I made by Broadway debut in “42nd Street’ when I was in NYC, and then went on to perform all over the world in a rock band. I think performance wise, it would definitely have to be performing at Bonnaroo as lead singer of Lez Zeppelin (an all-girl, all Zeppelin tribute band). We were able to headline the opening night and played a 3 hour show for a crowd of almost 20,000. It was probably one of the most nerve-racking and equally exhilarating nights of my life! The energy, being able to sing and perform incredible music in front of a sea of people — it just couldn’t have been better.
Beyond that, I think I am proud of myself and my ability to make the most of new situations, take both success and failure with a grain of salt, and to always try to encourage those around me to go out and be the best versions of themselves. If we all encourage each other and celebrate people’s strengths, there’d be no limit to the things we could achieve!!!!!
Do you have any particular favorite places around the world?
I love love love Asia! I have been to Tokyo 5 times and love it, I want to explore more of Japan though. I have been to Singapore years ago, but would love to return and really explore the Hawker Centers. I love the food, beaches and people in Thailand and about to visit for my 3rd time. I have had a great time and awesome food in London! Loved seeing parts of Italy, Germany and France. Other places that are on my list to explore are Hong Kong (about to go for the very first time), Spain, Portugal, Myanmar, Cambodia, Vietnam and Morocco.
What would be your dream project?
I’d love to add more video content to my site and perhaps spin that into a series. I love telling stories on camera and would consider doing that an absolute dream job! So…. Travel Channel, let’s DO THIS!
A little about San Francisco
Can you tell us your favorite San Francisco neighborhood and why?
I’ve been living in Pacific Heights, so I really had fun exploring that hood, along with Russian and Nob Hills, The Marina, Fillmore District and even the amazing food spots in the Tenderloin. As a tourist, the last neighborhood may feel a little sketchy, but honestly there are so many incredible places to eat there, it’s worth braving a visit to!
Where do you shop for the tools of your trade?
I’m an Apple girl through and through. And believe me; get the Apple Care on your devices. I just had an unfortunate experience where I watched my iPhone slip off a 9th floor balcony while in Australia, and was SO lucky to have apple care, as my phone was replaced within 24 hours.
Where and what was the last great meal you had in San Francisco?
Al’s Place really impressed me. I have been twice now and been pleasantly surprised each time by how creative Chef Aaron London is with his vegetable centric dishes. One salad I had made me feel a little transcendent! Baby lettuces with an almost Furikake style seasoning, and a puree of avocado that you dipped each baby lettuce into. So simple, so real and absolutely freaking delicious.
Where would we find you on a typical Saturday morning?
If you had asked me about this living in NYC, I would have said in bed, before getting up and meeting friends for what usually ends up being a boozy brunch. In SF, people are all about doing something active. So a lot of Saturdays or Sundays have been spent on a hike somewhere like Land’s End on in the Marin Headlands.
Where do you go in San Francisco to have fun?
You can pretty much go anywhere and have a good time! As long as I am doing something that involves the outdoors, and food in some capacity, I am a happy girl! Oh and wine. Wine always helps!
What is it about San Francisco that inspires you to create?
I can’t help but be inspired by its views, the incredible bay and coastline, and the amazing culinary scene. People are really experimenting and creating some wonderful food in this city, and so that’s always very inspiring for me!
San Francisco’s best kept secret?
I always loved taking out of town guests to walk the Lands End Trail over near Sutro Baths. It’s so peaceful and you can get some phenomenal views of the Golden Gate Bridge there too. They have a wonderful rock labyrinth that I have walked numerous times and it’s always a good place to visit when in need of inspiration. In terms of food secrets, definitely check out the Tenderloin and the outside areas like the Sunset and Richmond districts. There’s a ton of ethnic food and it’s some of the best I have had in the city!
More Information about Sarah:
Twitter @sarahmclellanny
Instagram @Sarahmclellanny
SnapChat @sarahmclellanny
www.theaussiewhoatethebigapple.com
www.sarahmclellan.com
sarahmclellan@gmail.com (for info, partnerships and collaborations)
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