Steki Taverna - Enmore, NSW
Embrace the spirit of Greek tradition at Steki Taverna, situated on the lively Enmore Road in Enmore. Celebrated for its decades of exceptional service and commitment to authentic cuisine, this gem stands as a bastion of cultural preservation and delight. The rustic interior, adorned with stacked stone walls and recycled timber, sets the mood for a culinary odyssey that fuses delectable flavours with entertaining live performances. Guests are greeted by the tantalising aromas of barbequed King prawns marinated in a vibrant mix of garlic, lemon, and olive oil, or the succulent charred octopus drizzled in a tangy dressing of vinegar and garlic. For a heartier option, indulge in the rich layers of traditional moussaka, a baked amalgamation of potato, eggplant, minced meat, enveloped in a luxurious béchamel sauce, rounded off sweetly with housemade baklava that simply melts in the mouth.
Standout dishes here reflect not only the culinary heritage of Greece but also the notions of community and sharing. The menu is an homage to family recipes, inviting diners to lose themselves in the rich tapestry of flavours and aromas. From spaghetti adorned with shellfish to the comforting embrace of the moussaka, every bite is soaked in nostalgia and love, embodying the very essence of what makes Steki Taverna a personal dining haven.
La Costa Restaurant & Cafe - The Entrance, NSW
On The Entrance Road, La Costa Restaurant & Cafe beckons with the promise of Italian culinary delights served within a friendly and engaging atmosphere. The inviting decor, complete with red and white checkered tablecloths and vibrant murals, complements the sunny disposition of its charming staff, creating a warm, familial vibes that entice you to settle in for a leisurely meal. This eatery marries tradition with innovation, where both classic gourmet pizzas and hearty chicken schnitzel find their place alongside a selection of pastas and rich, creamy risottos. Dive into the flavourful garlic prawns, delicately simmered in olive oil, or enjoy the zesty lemon pepper calamari paired with a fresh garden salad and crispy chips for a fulfilling meal.
The commitment to quality shines through in every dish, where fresh ingredients and authentic Italian flavours converge. For pizza aficionados, the Moroccan chicken slice, topped with eggplant, sun-dried tomato, and tzatziki, presents an exotic take that is sure to delight and surprise. Meanwhile, the indulgent fettuccine carbonara, brimming with creamy rich sauce and perfectly cooked spaghetti, epitomises Italian comfort food. La Costa not only serves food; it creates a community space where memories can be made over shared plates and good company.
The Deck Est. 2013 - Frankston, VIC
The Deck Est. 2013 on Davey Street in Frankston combines the laid-back atmosphere of a local pub with the exceptional service of a fine dining experience. Housed in a beautifully restored heritage-listed establishment, this venue offers awe-inspiring views of Port Phillip Bay that elevate any dining occasion. With a spacious two-storey layout and a stunning rooftop bar, The Deck serves as a perfect gathering spot for both casual meet-ups and celebratory events. From midday to late night, guests can enjoy a menu that features tasty small plates and hearty mains, all presented in a relaxed yet stylish environment. Think of steaming pork dumplings or a dish of creamy garlic prawns served on a fragrant bed of rice.
The emphasis here is on fresh, quality produce transformed into dishes that not only satiate the stomach but also captivate the senses. Larger plates such as the beer-battered hake with golden chips and tartar sauce make for a delightful meal, while the ever-changing roster of live entertainment leans into the theme of community and connection. The Deck seamlessly marries culinary excellence with a spirited ambiance, ensuring every guest walks away feeling at home.
Two Doors Brewing - Ashburton, VIC
Two Doors Brewing on High Street is a local treasure, marking the return of vibrant socialising spaces to Ashburton Village after decades of absence. Launched by Andy and Rach as a response to COVID lockdowns, this brewery and wine bar embodies the spirit of community and togetherness. With its warm atmosphere, featuring exposed brick walls and rustic wood décor, it offers a congenial space to sip Andy’s bespoke, small-batch beers brewed on-site while sharing delightful bites with friends and family. The brewery creates an inviting environment perfect for casual conversations and laughter, where the bar’s intimate setting makes every visit feel like reuniting with good friends.
The menu showcases a delightful selection of share platters that pair perfectly with a refreshing drink, including the irresistible aromas of share-friendly options. Features like crispy chicken wings or gourmet cheese boards enhance the deep sense of community, as guests gather to engage over flavourful nibbles and house-crafted brews. Each visit to Two Doors is not just about the beer; it's about fostering a sense of belonging among locals and visitors alike.
The Tipsy Italian - Islington, NSW
Tucked away on Maitland Road in Islington, The Tipsy Italian radiates warmth and nostalgia with its neighbourhood charm, offering a slice of Southern Italy imbued with familial warmth. This family-run establishment echoes Calabrian and Sicilian roots, evident in the hearty aromas wafting from its wood-fired oven. The restaurant’s rustic ambience includes textured wooden tables and twinkling fairy lights, inviting guests to unwind while savouring soul-nourishing dishes that evoke strong memories of home. From hand-rolled pasta to crunchy Roman-style pizzas, every menu item reflects a commitment to authentic flavours and quality ingredients. Don’t miss the mixed seafood risotto, a succulent blend of prawns and calamari gently kissed by garlic and chilli that will transport you straight to the Mediterranean coast.
With a menu crafted from cherished family recipes, take a journey through dishes like baked scallops doused in garlic, lemon, and butter, which offer a delightful taste of the sea, or enjoy spaghetti with clams, where the quiet simplicity of olive oil, garlic, and cherry tomatoes shines brightly. For pizza lovers, each slice topped extravagantly allows for an explosion of flavours that keeps guests returning for more. The Tipsy Italian captures the essence of familial bonds through its food, creating a vibrant dining space where everyone feels like part of the family.
Experience it for yourself by booking today.
As you traverse through these warmly welcoming establishments, remember that dining should be more than just a meal; it should be an experience steeped in camaraderie and community. These restaurants encapsulate that philosophy, making every plate a personal story shared around a table. Whether you’re indulging in Greek delights, Italian comforts or local brews, these venues are perfect for anyone seeking a dining experience that feels intimately personal.
