We all dream of getting away from it all over the Summer…whether it's just for a meal out or a total getaway to another state or country.
Think of sandy toes at the beach, lazy days by the pool and barbeques with family and friends, Summertime is all about possibilities, sun and good times. Here are five of our fave places for a Summer food fix:
Wrap your hands around American-style burgers sure to be loved at first bite at Central Burgs. on Whitehorse Road in Deepdene. New to the Melbourne burger scene post-COVID, this diner was born from an unspoken calling from inner-east locals to bring the community together over gourmet burgers, loaded fries and much more.
A fun and funky vibe of neon lighting, rustic exposed brick and trailing greenery awaits along with popular snacks like mouth-watering popcorn chicken and childhood classic tater tots; before burgers such as double Wagyu beef patties, cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles and Burgs BBQ sauce.
Freshly baked bread, pies, cakes, sandwiches and great coffee have locals and visitors returning time and again to Connells Bakery on Murray Street in Wonthaggi. This family-owned and operated Gippsland bakery and café is the place to head to refuel and recharge with a choice from cabinets overflowing with temptations or devour a flaky golden pastry gourmet pie with your brew of choice.
Perhaps a chilli and cheese sausage roll hits the mark, or a meat and vegetable pastie; while those time-poor opt for grab-and-go options such as a mixed pack of sandwiches or a bacon, egg and cheese brioche roll. Toasties like chicken, cheese and mayo are always favourites, washed down with an iced chocolate to beat Summer heat.
Step into a memorable dining experience from the time you walk in the door at MPD Steak Kitchen Caulfield on Derby Road. Quirky styling, an eccentric entrance and a warm greeting from staff set the mood for exceptional food and service at this Melbourne restaurant, where cascading pendent lighting, animal skulls and neon signage create an inviting ambience.
It’s all about the steak cooked on the Josper Grill – expect to slice into perfectly cooked meat, with triple-cooked hand-cut chips and your choice of sauce and sides. Think dishes like signature beef Wellington for two with two sauces and sides such as truffled mac and cheese and roasted cauliflower, with spiced butter and spring onion.
A favourite for Launceston locals and visitors, Levee Food Co on Seaport Boulevard offers a prime selection of Tasmanian steaks and seafood in a relaxed riverfront setting. Bi-fold doors open onto a sunny alfresco area ideal for enjoying a cold brew and people watching, while indoors, a curved bar promises cocktails to savour and blond wood table settings await those with ravenous appetites.
With each meal cooked to order to ensure it is fast and fresh, perhaps begin with oysters, smoked salmon and crème fraiche, followed by Thai beef salad, with coriander, chilli, red onion, capsicum, cucumber and cherry tomatoes dressed with sweet chilli, fresh lime and crispy shallots.
Find vast water views from every table at modern waterfront restaurant Ponte Bar and Dining on Wharf Road in Nowra. This South Coast dining destination, set alongside the banks of the Shoalhaven River, boasts an enclosed balcony, atmospheric dining room and a bar-lounge area for chilling out with a cocktail of choice while perusing a varied menu inspired by cuisines from all around the world.
Meet friends for a Summer lunch and delve into starters such as local tuna ceviche, avocado, pomegranate, jalapeño dressing and wontons; moving onto char-grilled Black Angus, crispy rosemary potatoes and pepper sauce, or share fried duck and pork ravioli with sesame sauce. Finish indulgently with baked dark chocolate fondant and vanilla custard.
