Paolo's Pizza Bar - Hervey Bay, QLD
Experience a touch of Naples right in the heart of Hervey Bay at Paolo’s Pizza Bar on The Esplanade in Torquay. On balmy days, sit alfresco and people watch across from the beachfront, or head indoors where a moody vibe of dark charcoal-coloured walls, whitewashed brick and cartoon-style artwork adorns walls and an imported Italian wood-fired pizza oven takes pride of place. The tantalising aromas in the air beckon you to contemplate starters like beer-battered calamari or crispy croquettes paired with house-made aioli. Further delight awaits with pasta plates such as casacrecce al salmone, featuring salmon, capers, red onion and smoked salmon in a pink sauce, while the irresistible pesto pollo pizza boasts layers of mozzarella, chicken, mushrooms and fresh basil.
The soul of Paolo’s lies in its authentic Italian roots, showcased vividly through every dish. Signature offerings like the fragrant pesto pollo echo traditional Italian flavours while maintaining a contemporary twist, making it a favourite among locals and tourists alike. For dessert, the classic tiramisu rounds off your meal with an indulgent nod to the sweeter side of Italian cuisine, ensuring your experience is steeped in heartfelt tradition.
Book your table at Paolo's Pizza Bar today!Melaleuca Port Douglas - Port Douglas, QLD
Take in ocean views as balmy breezes rustle overhead leaves at Melaleuca Port Douglas on Wharf Street. With a fabulous alfresco courtyard shaded by three giant mango trees, guests can enjoy both comfort and elegance in a chic indoor restaurant setting. The easy-going atmosphere encourages lingering over meals, enhanced by a Modern Australian menu that celebrates fresh local produce. Lunchtime offerings entice diners with tempura bugs, candied red chilli and macadamia dust, while night-time focuses on sumptuous mains like Panko crumbed whole barramundi, adorned with Asian spices and Thai caramel.
At Melaleuca, the story is one of place, with dishes reflecting the vibrant coastal bounty of Tropical North Queensland. The Panko crumbed barramundi exemplifies this ethos, marrying fresh, sustainable fish with the complex flavours of the region. For those seeking plant-based indulgence, the house-made gnocchi with earthy mushrooms and fragrant truffle oil transports diners to a world of vibrant taste. Each dish is a tribute to both the surrounding environment and the Chef’s vision, ensuring a memorable experience.
Reserve your spot at Melaleuca Port Douglas as soon as possible!Hearth Restaurant - Perth CBD, WA
Harnessing the power of an open fire, billows of smoke and glowing embers, diners are treated to meaningful and innovative dishes at Hearth Restaurant on Barrack Street in Perth’s CBD. Perched on the edge of Elizabeth Quay, the refined interior with its midnight blue palette creates an intimate setting where local WA produce takes centre stage. The à la carte menu invites you on a culinary adventure, with entrées showcasing charred rock lobster and nduja-infused torched octopus, presenting a tantalising blend of flavours from land and sea.
At Hearth, every dish tells a story of innovation and locality. The dry-aged duck leg char siu shines with a depth of flavour, illustrating the Chef’s commitment to quality and creativity. Diners will revel in the delicate chocolate mousse paired with miso caramel, an unexpected yet captivating ending that reiterates the restaurant's dedication to pushing culinary boundaries. Each plate is a reflection of passion and artistry, offering a journey through the Chef's dedication to modern Australian cuisine.
Make a reservation at Hearth Restaurant for an unforgettable evening!Boathouse Daylesford - Daylesford, VIC
Located on the banks of Lake Daylesford with exquisite water views from any vantage point, the Boathouse Restaurant on Leggatt Street is a sophisticated dining venue for lunch and dinner. It’s the ideal spot to unwind and enjoy seasonal offerings, whether from the indoor seating during Winter or the inviting outdoor deck in warmer months. Diner comfort is paramount, augmented by professional service and a menu that features local produce and bold flavours. Kick off your meal with hiramasa kingfish ceviche, complemented beautifully by passionfruit and chilli, as you soak in the spectacular lake views.
Every dish at Boathouse Daylesford is a testament to the Chef’s philosophy of celebrating fresh, local ingredients while weaving a narrative of elegance and taste. The duck fat confit quail reflects meticulous care in preparation, presenting a delightful combination of rich flavours and textures. As you finish your meal with the well-crafted venison eye fillet, the nuanced pairing with beetroot purée deepens your appreciation for the culinary artistry present here. Each bite is a history lesson in local produce that is both honouring and innovative.
Secure your dining experience at Boathouse Daylesford now!Rex's Cuisine - Acacia Ridge, QLD
Bringing the soul of Filipino cooking to Brisbane, head to Rex’s Cuisine on Elizabeth Street in Acacia Ridge to discover the rich flavours and cherished traditions of the Philippines. Relax under recycled timber tables illuminated by soft, statement pendant lights as you browse a menu that captures the vibrant spirit of Filipino culture. Begin your culinary adventure with deep-fried tofu and pig's ear, embracing the eclectic flavours of the menu, designed to bring a smile to any food lover's face.
The heart of Rex’s Cuisine lies in its authentic representations of traditional Filipino dishes. Mains such as the braised pork stew simmer in pineapple sauce, offering a delightful sweetness contrasted by the earthiness of its accompaniments. Chicken adobo, the quintessential Filipino dish, finds its perfection here, paired flawlessly with steamed rice and an array of vegetables, allowing the rich heritage of the cuisine to shine through. For dessert, indulge in the indulgent five-layer pandan mud cake that embodies a celebration of culture in every layer.
Plan your visit to Rex's Cuisine today!
The intersection of a Chef's narrative and their menu presents an exciting exploration into culinary artistry that goes beyond mere dining. It allows patrons to savour not just food, but the stories and inspirations behind these culinary masterpieces. These venues exemplify how personal tales and culinary heritage merge to create unforgettable dining experiences that invite you to return again and again.
