The culinary superstar will treat foodies to the stay during the festival’s first weekend, which runs from 25 March to 9 April 2022.

Among her appearances will be an in conversation with former MasterChef co-host Matt Preston during a three-course lunch on Sunday, March 27.

Major Events Minister Martin Pakula said the festival’s return after two years of lockdowns is something for Melbourne to celebrate.

“Melbourne is famous for its culinary scene and we support the festival because it brings people into our city to taste the best of what’s on offer,” he said.

“And that means more jobs in our local hospitality industry.”

The festival begins when the World’s Longest Lunch returns to Treasury Gardens on Friday 25 March, which will be led by renowned chef, Ben Shewry of Attica.

The World’s Longest Brunch will take place on Sunday 26 March with a Middle Eastern menu.

The 2022 program also includes a family-friendly pasta fair, and a rock ’n’ roll celebration of plant-based eating and drinking, a gathering of city’s best snacks.

A special event in winter and a regional program in November will contribute to the festival’s 30th anniversary celebrations in 2022.