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Elevated Eats and Relaxed Vibes: A Journey Through Modern Casual Luxe Dining


In the ever-evolving landscape of dining, the modern casual luxe movement captures the essence of sophisticated meals served in a laid-back atmosphere. The blend of high-quality dishes with a relaxed ambience invites food lovers to indulge without the airs and graces of fine dining. Embarking on this culinary journey, we explore charming venues that exemplify relaxed elegance, where every bite tells the story of local produce and creativity.

Lagoon House Restaurant - Port Douglas, QLD

Lagoon House Restaurant on Avenue of Palms is not merely a dining destination; it's a harmonious blend of nature and creativity nestled within the Sheraton Mirage Resort. This unique venue fosters a sense of community, where both locals and visitors gather to experience the culinary artistry of an international team dedicated to highlighting the best of fresh local produce. With a stunning open kitchen framed by lush palms and cool breezes from Four Mile Beach, it invites guests to enjoy a morning coffee or an evening meal in a truly enchanting setting.

Elevated Eats and Relaxed Vibes: A Journey Through Modern Casual Luxe Dining

The menu at Lagoon House is an homage to the vibrant flavours of modern Southeast Asian cuisine, showcasing dishes crafted with local ingredients that whisper the essence of Far North Queensland. Treat yourself to succulent Tiger prawns, enhanced by a zesty green masala and paired with market greens and steamed rice, capturing the spirit of the region on every plate. As the sun sets, the tantalising aromas permeate the air, setting a perfect mood for a memorable culinary experience. Book your table now.

Harvest Restaurant - Windsor, NSW

Located in the Crowne Plaza Hawkesbury Valley, Harvest Restaurant presents a delightful dining experience that captivates with its elegant charm. Situated on Hawkesbury Valley Way, the venue embraces a romantic atmosphere perfect for both intimate dinners and celebratory gatherings. Enjoy the ideal fusion of rustic French provincial aesthetics and exceptional culinary talent, where seasonal dishes come to life through harmonious flavour pairings crafted from the finest local ingredients.

Elevated Eats and Relaxed Vibes: A Journey Through Modern Casual Luxe Dining

The menu features an exquisite selection, beginning with a delightful shrimp bisque soup that combines King prawns, kohlrabi, and lemon tabasco aioli, creating a comforting yet sophisticated starter. Mains such as the tender beef tenderloin, served with broccolini and a red wine jus, or the sesame-crusted salmon with parsnip cream, are crafted to impress. As a sweet finale, the banana panna cotta offers a luscious conclusion to a truly memorable meal. Reserve your dining experience today.

The Cranfield - Young, NSW

Housed in the historic 1888 Masonic building, The Cranfield in Young is a culinary gem that embodies rustic charm and sophistication in equal measure. This restaurant, wine bar, and providore highlights the rich produce of the Hilltops region. With a menu that changes weekly, expect to find an assortment of dishes showcasing seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, all presented in a beautifully candlelit atmosphere ideal for a special night out.

Elevated Eats and Relaxed Vibes: A Journey Through Modern Casual Luxe Dining

Your dining journey begins with a roasted cherry tomato tartlet accompanied by a velvety Hollandaise sauce, setting the stage for a tasty experience. The standout local beetroot and goats’ cheese tortellini, enhanced with a nutty butter sauce, promises to delight the senses, while the slow-cooked beef cheeks braised in port and rosemary jus deliver comfort in every bite. To round off your evening, indulge in the elderflower roasted apricots paired with olive oil ice cream, making for a sweet ending to a fine dining adventure. Secure your reservation now.

Ava Milawa - Milawa, VIC

Ava Milawa on Snow Road presents an inviting opportunity for casual fine dining within the heart of one of the gourmet regions of the country. This venue exemplifies modern Australian cuisine with a keen focus on seasonal ingredients, set against a backdrop of welcoming and relaxed décor, perfectly suited for any occasion, from romantic dinners to festive gatherings.

Elevated Eats and Relaxed Vibes: A Journey Through Modern Casual Luxe Dining

Begin your culinary exploration with fried squid, accented with a refreshing native lime and curry sauce, before diving into the prawn and scallop tortellini enveloped in a fragrant laksa broth. For the main event, the tender lamb shoulder paired with minted cream and rich garlic chives is a must-try, whereas the steak, slathered in horseradish salsa verde, delivers a comforting classic. No meal would be complete without indulging in the smoked chocolate dessert, presenting a perfect balance of flavours that embodies culinary creativity. Make a booking today.

Toro Bar & Kitchen - Maroochydore, QLD

Emphasising the welcoming nature of Spanish hospitality, Toro Bar & Kitchen on Plaza Parade invites diners to explore the communal spirit of sharing meals in a vibrant setting. Located within the Kon-Tiki Business Centre, this venue beautifully balances rustic and industrial design elements, creating a warm space that encourages leisurely dining amongst friends and family.

Elevated Eats and Relaxed Vibes: A Journey Through Modern Casual Luxe Dining

The menu offers a tantalising selection of dishes that ensure there's something for everyone. Start with mouth-watering small plates like rich beef tartare seasoned with mustard and egg yolk, or indulge in prawns paired with zesty aioli. For the main course, the juicy Wagyu rump cap served with mojo verde and crispy potatoes is not to be missed, perfectly best enjoyed with seasonal greens dressed in Romesco. Featuring a lively communal atmosphere, Toro is the perfect spot to share delectable tastes that encourage connection and conviviality. Join us for a delightful meal; book your table now.

The modern casual luxe dining movement reimagines the concept of fine dining by merging high-quality dishes with comfortable atmospheres. Each of these carefully curated venues reflects a commitment to chef-driven innovation while emphasising local produce and creating memorable experiences that resonate long after the last bite. Whatever the occasion, these restaurants provide the perfect setting for indulging in elevated culinary delights without compromising the relaxed vibe that allows you to truly savour the moment.

Featured Locations

Asian    $$$$$

Lagoon House Restaurant

Lagoon House Restaurant on Avenue of Palms is a unique experience that has been crafted to embellish the laidback lifestyle of Port Douglas. Nestled in Sheraton Mirage Resort, this is a place where...

Modern Australian    $$$$$

Harvest Restaurant

Tantalise your tastebuds at Crowne Plaza Hawkesbury Valley's signature dining destination, Harvest Restaurant in Windsor. Found on Hawkesbury Valley Way, this elegant venue offers intimate and roma...

Modern Australian    $$$$$

The Cranfield

Nestled in the grand, old 1888 Masonic building in the regional town of Young, The Cranfield restaurant, wine bar and providore on Zoutch Street showcases produce from the surrounding Hilltops regi...

Spanish    $$$$$

Toro Bar & Kitchen

With a vision rooted in the vibrant and inviting spirit of Spanish hospitality, head to Toro Bar & Kitchen on Plaza Parade in Maroochydore to enjoy sharing meals with loved ones. Located on the gro...

Modern Australian    $$$$$

Ava Milawa

Ava Milawa on Snow Road offers casual fine dining in the heart of Milawa’s gourmet region. Indulge in a seasonal menu focusing on Modern Australian cuisine, complemented by a curated cocktail and d...

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