We had originally booked our Christmas Party at a “prestigious” (their words, not mine) winery but due to a difference of opinion a few weeks out about where we could sit, how many courses we could have and the fact that we could ONLY have alternate drop – we decided to go elsewhere. Seeing as Brisbane’s best Christmas Party Venues are generally booked out by October – we had left it a little bit late, but seeing as our boss as recently moved into his dream home at St Lucia – the executive decision was made to host it there and “Get the Caterers in”.
I for one was disappointed. I have been to a few catered parties in my time (and left one a few kilos lighter thanks to some dodgily transported chicken) and none had particularly wowed me. On top of that – after a cringe worthy night at hubby’s Xmas party where he practically inhaled the bar tab – it was finally his turn to drive, and I had been looking forward to sampling some delicious, budget blowing cocktails.
So yes, I will admit that my hopes fell a little bit when we were relegated from Winery to Balcony… and now, in hindsight – I would like to apologise to Caxton St. I have well and truly eaten my words. They have completely restored my faith in the catering profession.
30 November 2009
29 November 2009
I tried to be tricky - and I think I failed. Sponge fingers...
At work last year we were all colour coded by personality:
Blue = Numbers! Numbers! Numbers!
Green = Organised, Strategic
Red = Emotional, good with people
Yellow = Creative, lots of ideas
I was off the chart Yellow and Red, poor old Green and Blue barely got a look in.
And so, my latest kitchen semi-disaster - I blame on my lack of blue and green.
It wasn't a disaster as such, but my idea was great - gorgeous, unique, quirky. I thought it would be great. And not having time to do it properly, I skimped on some of the ingredients - after all, it was just a test run right?
So what was my idea you ask? Well imagine a Sponge Cake, 2 layers of super light and fluffy vanilla cake, vanilla whipped cream and fresh strawberries, all dusted with virgin white icing sugar.
Mmmm. *Yum*
24 November 2009
If you can't handle the heat in the kitchen... turn on the Airconditioning.
It has been so hot in Brisbane lately, and I hate being hot. So when hubby brought home chicken and curry sauce for dinner the other night – I thought he had gone nuts. Seeing as there wasn’t anything else in the fridge – there were no other options, so we cooked and ate and sweated our way through boring Chicken Massaman. Urgh. Even with the air conditioning pumping like a Boeing 747 – I was miserable.
So last night, I decided on a summer favourite – Quiche. It’s the perfect dish as it tastes just as good hot as it does cold. It can be sexed up for a party or dressed down for a picnic – and more than anything, it requires minimum effort in front of the stove on a hot summer night. *cheering*
I’ve made quiche so many times now that I no longer use a recipe – I even cheat and use store bought Puff Pastry, and the ingredients are nothing more than a reflection on the contents of my fridge. I am seriously in love with Nigella Lawson, so have taken her tips to heart and there is always diced bacon in my freezer, a red onion lurking somewhere – and because I’m my Father’s Daughter – a pot of cream and eggs in the fridge. All the staples you need really!
So last night, I decided on a summer favourite – Quiche. It’s the perfect dish as it tastes just as good hot as it does cold. It can be sexed up for a party or dressed down for a picnic – and more than anything, it requires minimum effort in front of the stove on a hot summer night. *cheering*
I’ve made quiche so many times now that I no longer use a recipe – I even cheat and use store bought Puff Pastry, and the ingredients are nothing more than a reflection on the contents of my fridge. I am seriously in love with Nigella Lawson, so have taken her tips to heart and there is always diced bacon in my freezer, a red onion lurking somewhere – and because I’m my Father’s Daughter – a pot of cream and eggs in the fridge. All the staples you need really!
23 November 2009
My Sweetopia... My Utopia.
So a Journo, a Shrink and a Sales Rep walk out of a Sushi Bar... and straight into a Cupcake shop! Obviously I was lying about how full we were when we left Ginga... or else my Dad was on to something when he told me that we had a regular stomach and a dessert stomach...
The Journo's Mum has visited quite a lot this year - and one of their mother-daughter bonding experiences has been working their way through Brisbane's cupcake scene, so when the Journo says that "THIS is the best cupcake shop in Brisbane" - you kind of have to believe her. I mean, she has infiltrated EVERY cupcakery here... the only person more qualified than her - would have to Kerry from Eat, Drink and Be Kerry.
So I took up the challenge - and I say that like I needed convincing - I didn't. I practically ran across 2 lanes of traffic and a roundabout to get there - I mean, what if they closed EARLY???
But they didn't - although it was early afternoon and the selection was severely dimished, and I settled happily on a White Chocolate Cupcake with White Chocolate Frosting, torn between it and the same Cupcake but with Passionfruit Frosting.
My Sweetopia
The Journo's Mum has visited quite a lot this year - and one of their mother-daughter bonding experiences has been working their way through Brisbane's cupcake scene, so when the Journo says that "THIS is the best cupcake shop in Brisbane" - you kind of have to believe her. I mean, she has infiltrated EVERY cupcakery here... the only person more qualified than her - would have to Kerry from Eat, Drink and Be Kerry.
So I took up the challenge - and I say that like I needed convincing - I didn't. I practically ran across 2 lanes of traffic and a roundabout to get there - I mean, what if they closed EARLY???
But they didn't - although it was early afternoon and the selection was severely dimished, and I settled happily on a White Chocolate Cupcake with White Chocolate Frosting, torn between it and the same Cupcake but with Passionfruit Frosting.
My Sweetopia
Ginga - Sushi Train of love and bulging bellies
While the boys were enjoying some male bonding time - we decided to leave them to their devices (and no doubt, shenanigans) - and go enjoy a movie and lunch.
Trying to coordinate a Journo, Shrink and Sales Rep to meet up regularly is almost as difficult as coaching a Beauty Queen to wish for something other than World Peace... but it's so worth the effort.
On this occasion we were having Ginga Sushi - to be honest... whenever we are at South Brisbane... we always have Ginga! It is without a doubt my (closely second) favourite Sushi Train, and definately my top choice this side of the River. I have lost count of the number of times we have eaten here and it is always fantastic - my only gripe is that I always fill up on my favourites and never actually manage to try any of their other delicious offerings... but I don't think that's their fault... I think that lies solely with me...
This time it was Miso Soup, Tempura Prawn and Avocado Roll, Softshell Crab Spider Roll and Teriyaki Chicken Roll... all perfect quality, super fresh and moreish to the point that we all rolled out of there clutching our stomachs, deeply satisfied and already looking forward to our next visit.
The Verdict: Fantastic Sushi Train offerings, convenient to the cinema for a pre/post meal and so affordable, the prices hardly due justice to the quality.
My Recommendations: Tempura Prawn and Avocado Roll, Chicken Teriyaki Hand Roll - and although I don't eat fish - the Journo raves about their Salmon, Avocado and Red Onion Roll.
Contact: Ginga Restaurant
Trying to coordinate a Journo, Shrink and Sales Rep to meet up regularly is almost as difficult as coaching a Beauty Queen to wish for something other than World Peace... but it's so worth the effort.
On this occasion we were having Ginga Sushi - to be honest... whenever we are at South Brisbane... we always have Ginga! It is without a doubt my (closely second) favourite Sushi Train, and definately my top choice this side of the River. I have lost count of the number of times we have eaten here and it is always fantastic - my only gripe is that I always fill up on my favourites and never actually manage to try any of their other delicious offerings... but I don't think that's their fault... I think that lies solely with me...
This time it was Miso Soup, Tempura Prawn and Avocado Roll, Softshell Crab Spider Roll and Teriyaki Chicken Roll... all perfect quality, super fresh and moreish to the point that we all rolled out of there clutching our stomachs, deeply satisfied and already looking forward to our next visit.
The Verdict: Fantastic Sushi Train offerings, convenient to the cinema for a pre/post meal and so affordable, the prices hardly due justice to the quality.
My Recommendations: Tempura Prawn and Avocado Roll, Chicken Teriyaki Hand Roll - and although I don't eat fish - the Journo raves about their Salmon, Avocado and Red Onion Roll.
Contact: Ginga Restaurant
Pizza Capers - Getting it's act together... finally!
After spending Sunday hosting an Alpha Male Pool Party at our house (read: 5 boys, 3 esky’s, 2 tarps and a bottle of Morning Fresh… you get the picture?) – the last thing I wanted to do was cook. The answer? Pizza – and preferably home delivered.
We’ve lived in the ‘burbs now for 2 years, but prior to that – we used to venture out here every month or so to babysit our nieces, and use the opportunity to try different takeaway to what we had in the Valley.
At this stage – it was really just the big pizza chains, Pizza Hut and Dominos – and very little else that didn’t taste like cardboard… until we discovered the newly opened Pizza Capers that promised - and did - deliver Gourmet Pizzas with interesting toppings and plenty of them.
But after what was such an illustrious beginning, Pizza Capers started to pick up some bad habits from it’s Bogan cousins… soggy bases, stingy toppings, being delivered cold, and waiting over an hour for the privilege. So we gave up – wrote them off as just another “Big Boy” that was all about the profit margin, and no longer about the customer. Until recently that is…when hubby told me sheepishly that he had cheated on our new love Hell Pizza – just to give Pizza Capers another chance…
We’ve lived in the ‘burbs now for 2 years, but prior to that – we used to venture out here every month or so to babysit our nieces, and use the opportunity to try different takeaway to what we had in the Valley.
At this stage – it was really just the big pizza chains, Pizza Hut and Dominos – and very little else that didn’t taste like cardboard… until we discovered the newly opened Pizza Capers that promised - and did - deliver Gourmet Pizzas with interesting toppings and plenty of them.
But after what was such an illustrious beginning, Pizza Capers started to pick up some bad habits from it’s Bogan cousins… soggy bases, stingy toppings, being delivered cold, and waiting over an hour for the privilege. So we gave up – wrote them off as just another “Big Boy” that was all about the profit margin, and no longer about the customer. Until recently that is…when hubby told me sheepishly that he had cheated on our new love Hell Pizza – just to give Pizza Capers another chance…
21 November 2009
He's a cranky Birthday Boy - but he still wants cake!
The Birthday Boy wanted cake to go with his Pizza - and while the dough was rising happily in the spare room - I considered my options.
Pour into the cake tin and bake at 180C or 35 minutes. Remove from the oven but leave the cake on the base to cool for at least 30 mins - it may still be quite wobbly so it is essential to let it sit to get the right texture.
I could make him cake - but then there would only be the two of us to eat it... and I would have to light up the candles and sing to him (like an idiot) all by myself... as that vision played out in my head - I couldn't really think of anything more depressing so decided on delaying the cake until the next night when we had friends coming over for a non-birthday dinner*. (*see previous post about how we were not allowed to celebrate this year)
My staple chocolate cake that I take everywhere is Green & Black's Chocolate Mousse Cake - which is super easy and disgustingly rich.
I made it once on a whim to see what it was like - only to have every BBQ invitation after that come with the condition that I "bring that chocolate-thing I make".
Chocolate Mousse Cake
3 tbsp Ground hazelnuts plus extra for dusting tin
3 tbsp Ground hazelnuts plus extra for dusting tin
300g Dark chocolate
275g Caster sugar
165g Unsalted butter
1 Pinch of sea salt
5 Eggs (large)
Icing sugar / cocoa powder / gold dust
Brush a lined 20-23cm cake tin with a little melted butter and dust with ground hazelnuts, shaking off any excess.
Melt the chocolate, sugar, butter and salt in a heatproof bowl suspended over a saucepan of barely simmering water, then remove from the heat.
Using a beater, beat the eggs with the ground hazelnuts until fluffy and then fold into the chocolate mixture, careful not to lose too much of the air.Melt the chocolate, sugar, butter and salt in a heatproof bowl suspended over a saucepan of barely simmering water, then remove from the heat.
Depending on how fancy you want to be - dust with Icing Sugar, Cocoa Powder or Gold Dust.
*This is a very rich cake which does need something to cut it - I recommend ice cream / cream / fresh raspberries / citrus salad.
Needless to say - the cake was a hit. It is always a hit.
20 November 2009
Birthday's... it's the scurge of the oldies...
It was hubby's 28th birthday this week - and although he is usually quite the party animal, I have noticed that the closer he gets to the big 3-0, the less attention he wants to draw to himself and his ever increasing age... So this year when he was incredibly anti-birthday, I left it up to him to tell me what he wanted to do.
After a week of cajoling, bribing and finally ignoring - he decided that he didn't want a party, didn't want to celebrate and wanted to lock himself in the house until it was all over. But that he wouldn't mind if I happened to make homemade pizzas and chocolate cake - just to keep him nourished during the standoff.
I had every intention of photographing the birthday dinner - in its stages of creation but after being harrassed by work (It's late night trade in Retail on Thurs), fielding birthday calls and well wishing visitors - I started off well but then completely forgot!
But my pizza dough recipe, stolen from Philip Johnson at Ecco, is unfailable. (*usually* - I try not to count the time I thought I could get by using yeast that was 2 months out of date... complete fail. Well - not completely - just very crispy!)
Pizza Dough:
225g Strong Flour
14g Dried yeast
1 tsp Sugar
170ml Warm water
2 tbsp Olive Oil
1/2 tsp Sea Salt
My favourite toppings:
Garlic Butter (Butter, fresh garlic, chives, parsley and basil) and Bocconcini
Garlic Butter, halved cherry tomatoes, basil and bocconcini
Tomato base, Pepperoni, Bocconcini
After a week of cajoling, bribing and finally ignoring - he decided that he didn't want a party, didn't want to celebrate and wanted to lock himself in the house until it was all over. But that he wouldn't mind if I happened to make homemade pizzas and chocolate cake - just to keep him nourished during the standoff.
I had every intention of photographing the birthday dinner - in its stages of creation but after being harrassed by work (It's late night trade in Retail on Thurs), fielding birthday calls and well wishing visitors - I started off well but then completely forgot!
But my pizza dough recipe, stolen from Philip Johnson at Ecco, is unfailable. (*usually* - I try not to count the time I thought I could get by using yeast that was 2 months out of date... complete fail. Well - not completely - just very crispy!)
Pizza Dough:
225g Strong Flour
14g Dried yeast
1 tsp Sugar
170ml Warm water
2 tbsp Olive Oil
1/2 tsp Sea Salt
Mix water, sugar and yeast in a jug and leave for a couple of minutes until it starts to froth.
Then add to the flour, salt and olive oil. Mix together with your fingers, knead lightly on a floured surface and then put back into the bowl, cover with a damp cloth and leave to rise in a warm area for approx 2 hours.
Knead the dough again, then split in half, roll out onto 2 floured pizza trays.
Allow to rise uncovered for 20 mins, then top with your favourite toppings!
Then add to the flour, salt and olive oil. Mix together with your fingers, knead lightly on a floured surface and then put back into the bowl, cover with a damp cloth and leave to rise in a warm area for approx 2 hours.
Knead the dough again, then split in half, roll out onto 2 floured pizza trays.
Allow to rise uncovered for 20 mins, then top with your favourite toppings!
My favourite toppings:
Garlic Butter (Butter, fresh garlic, chives, parsley and basil) and Bocconcini
Garlic Butter, halved cherry tomatoes, basil and bocconcini
Tomato base, Pepperoni, Bocconcini
18 November 2009
Sushi Train - I choo choo choose you...
Another day, another work lunch. I almost make it sound like a complaint don't I? Well it's not - honestly!
On this occasion I had some clients from Toowoomba in town, and having bragged about my absolute favourite Sushi place the last time I saw them - I had arranged to take them out for some chopstick action the next time they made it to Brisbane.
So where is the best Sushi in Brisbane? Without a doubt - Sushi Station on Brunswick Street in the Valley. It is always ridiculously fresh, cheaper than the city outlets and the Chefs are always willing to make you anything that isn't already on the train.
My other favourite thing about this Sushi Train - is the Miso soup. It is divine. So divine in fact that I usually have at least 2 bowls of it... It just makes me feel so healthy and sustained... hard to describe, but after one bowl I feel cleansed. After the 2nd bowl - I feel a bit like the Dalai Lama... calm, content and at peace with the world. Even if it is only for the duration of lunch!
My other favourites are the Prawn, Avocado and Snow Pea Sprout Rolls, Chicken in Omelette Hand Roll and the Vegetarian Delight - Tofu, Carrot and Pickles wrapped in Sushi Rice and Lettuce. *drool*
I've been coming here for years - the Chefs recognise me when come in, which is nice - but what I really like is that they laugh at me when I bring my husband. Why? Well - because he doesn't eat Sushi. When he comes with me, we sit at the back of the restaurant and the Chefs just keep passing him plates of Gyoza and Tempura. Thats all he eats. Ever. They think it's hilarious.
On this occasion I had some clients from Toowoomba in town, and having bragged about my absolute favourite Sushi place the last time I saw them - I had arranged to take them out for some chopstick action the next time they made it to Brisbane.
So where is the best Sushi in Brisbane? Without a doubt - Sushi Station on Brunswick Street in the Valley. It is always ridiculously fresh, cheaper than the city outlets and the Chefs are always willing to make you anything that isn't already on the train.
My other favourite thing about this Sushi Train - is the Miso soup. It is divine. So divine in fact that I usually have at least 2 bowls of it... It just makes me feel so healthy and sustained... hard to describe, but after one bowl I feel cleansed. After the 2nd bowl - I feel a bit like the Dalai Lama... calm, content and at peace with the world. Even if it is only for the duration of lunch!
My other favourites are the Prawn, Avocado and Snow Pea Sprout Rolls, Chicken in Omelette Hand Roll and the Vegetarian Delight - Tofu, Carrot and Pickles wrapped in Sushi Rice and Lettuce. *drool*
I've been coming here for years - the Chefs recognise me when come in, which is nice - but what I really like is that they laugh at me when I bring my husband. Why? Well - because he doesn't eat Sushi. When he comes with me, we sit at the back of the restaurant and the Chefs just keep passing him plates of Gyoza and Tempura. Thats all he eats. Ever. They think it's hilarious.
12 November 2009
Jellyfish - Brother & Sister ruling Surf & Turf?
In my experience - diahorrea and Fine Dining Restaurants don't usually go together... well, you hope not anyway. So thats why I was so surprised to see it on a menu...
I have been a long time fan of John Kilroy's Cha Cha Char - coming from a country background, and from a family that like their meat - how could I not?
So when I heard that he had opened Jellyfish and was planning on doing for Seafood, what he has already done for steak - I was excited. I'm also embarrassed that it took me this long to actually go there...
It was my 2 year anniversary at work, and because I have a fantastic boss who insists on celebrating these things (don't get me wrong, I am NOT complaining!), it was out to lunch we went. Seeing as my boss is also my Sister-in-law, it wasn't exactly a work lunch!
My SIL is a complete food snob - and I love to pick her brain about places she has been, loved and recommends - so on this occasion, I let her choose the Restaurant - and while she had a few ideas - the only stipulation was that it had to have tablecloths. The lady loves her linen
I have been a long time fan of John Kilroy's Cha Cha Char - coming from a country background, and from a family that like their meat - how could I not?
So when I heard that he had opened Jellyfish and was planning on doing for Seafood, what he has already done for steak - I was excited. I'm also embarrassed that it took me this long to actually go there...
It was my 2 year anniversary at work, and because I have a fantastic boss who insists on celebrating these things (don't get me wrong, I am NOT complaining!), it was out to lunch we went. Seeing as my boss is also my Sister-in-law, it wasn't exactly a work lunch!
My SIL is a complete food snob - and I love to pick her brain about places she has been, loved and recommends - so on this occasion, I let her choose the Restaurant - and while she had a few ideas - the only stipulation was that it had to have tablecloths. The lady loves her linen
Platinum International Hotel - I can't believe it's in Toowoomba! oops.
Note to Self: Don't insult Taxi Drivers when you don't know where you are. Bad Move. Even if it was unintentional.
I travel a lot. A LOT. And sometimes, the places I stay at are awesome, sometimes a bit random - and sometimes downright scary or crap. But I only have myself to blame because I book everything myself.
Anyway - I go to Toowoomba every 3 weeks, usually just a day trip - but occasionally I'm in charge of Entertaining our clients there which involves a fairly hard night on the tiles after dinner and an overnight stay. I'd driven past the billboard for The Platinum International quite a few times - and I'll be honest - the first time I was going so fast, I thought it was for a strip joint. But later - travelling at the speed limit - I noticed it was for a Hotel - and I was intruiged.
I travel a lot. A LOT. And sometimes, the places I stay at are awesome, sometimes a bit random - and sometimes downright scary or crap. But I only have myself to blame because I book everything myself.
Anyway - I go to Toowoomba every 3 weeks, usually just a day trip - but occasionally I'm in charge of Entertaining our clients there which involves a fairly hard night on the tiles after dinner and an overnight stay. I'd driven past the billboard for The Platinum International quite a few times - and I'll be honest - the first time I was going so fast, I thought it was for a strip joint. But later - travelling at the speed limit - I noticed it was for a Hotel - and I was intruiged.
11 November 2009
Libertine's... Most Excellent Indeed.
While some might say there are no bigger food-snobs that Hospitality employees – and usually I would agree – my Boss, is without a doubt, the biggest snob of all. So while I have listened intently (read: seething with jealousy) about his regular jaunts to Brisbane’s hot spots, no one was more surprised than me to find out that one of his current favorites was a Restaurant where the most expensive Main Course was only $35. I’m fairly sure that’s the average price for an entrée at Aria – another of his favourites by the way.
So after hearing time and time again how much he enjoyed this place - he’s been 12 times now – I finally bit the bullet and booked us a table to celebrate Hubby (finally) finishing his Apprenticeship.
Of course, being the food-addict that I am, I researched the Restaurant, read the menu and scoffed at their arrogance for calling one of their starters “Most Excellent”. But I’m not too big to admit that I ate my words – and most of the items on their menu - Libertine's is just fabulous.
So after hearing time and time again how much he enjoyed this place - he’s been 12 times now – I finally bit the bullet and booked us a table to celebrate Hubby (finally) finishing his Apprenticeship.
Of course, being the food-addict that I am, I researched the Restaurant, read the menu and scoffed at their arrogance for calling one of their starters “Most Excellent”. But I’m not too big to admit that I ate my words – and most of the items on their menu - Libertine's is just fabulous.
10 November 2009
Every kid should have birthday cake...
When I was a little girl - it was the highlight of my year when my birthday came around - and not so much because of the presents - but because every year, we were allowed to go through Mum's massive library of cook books and choose ANY cake we wanted - and she would make it for us.So after growing up with this tradition and experiencing the Barbie Doll ice cream cake, Frog Pond Cake with Green Jello, Excavator cake (yes, Mum did actually build an excavator out of cake, complete with Mint Slice wheels and a moving bucket thanks to skewers) as well as the famous Death by Chocolate cake when I old enough to truly appreciate a 6 tier masterpiece, I have always felt that this was a tradition I would continue when I had kids.
09 November 2009
Daring Bakers Challenge - What have I gotten myself into???
I've been a long time fan of Aran at Cannelle-Vanille, her passion for food and the artistry in how she plates is just mind blowing.
She has blogged quite a lot about how she is a part of a group called the Daring Bakers - stupidly I assumed that they must be friends who all set themselves little challenges and then chat about it over coffee later...
How wrong I was! And I'm so excited - because this group is actually made up of members all over the world. Every month they set a recipe challenge, you make it, photograph it and submit it. The only rule is that you have to complete 8 out of 12 of the challenges to stay in the group...
So yesterday - I joined!! I won't get my first challenge until early next month but I can't wait. So stay posted for tales of success and failure - with all the photographic evidence to back it up!
She has blogged quite a lot about how she is a part of a group called the Daring Bakers - stupidly I assumed that they must be friends who all set themselves little challenges and then chat about it over coffee later...
How wrong I was! And I'm so excited - because this group is actually made up of members all over the world. Every month they set a recipe challenge, you make it, photograph it and submit it. The only rule is that you have to complete 8 out of 12 of the challenges to stay in the group...
So yesterday - I joined!! I won't get my first challenge until early next month but I can't wait. So stay posted for tales of success and failure - with all the photographic evidence to back it up!
Byblos - Lost for words (almost!)
I love those days when family and friends unexpectedly come into town - and I love it even more when they offer to shout you lunch
Sunday was one of those days, and my favourite Aunty M was in town on her way back from Melbourne. With the sun shining hot, but the recent rain keeping everything cool - it seemed like the perfect day to hit Portside Wharf on the way back from the airport.
We walked aimlessly, checking out all the Restaurants before making our pick - I had read some good reviews about Mahjongg Cafe but when we got there it looked pretty plain, and it was at the back end of Portside, meaning no River Views. Convinced we could get a better offer closer to the water we decided on Byblos Bar, completely won over by the fluro orange table settings - so funky amongst the posh furnishings of Manx, Sono and the like...
Sunday was one of those days, and my favourite Aunty M was in town on her way back from Melbourne. With the sun shining hot, but the recent rain keeping everything cool - it seemed like the perfect day to hit Portside Wharf on the way back from the airport.
We walked aimlessly, checking out all the Restaurants before making our pick - I had read some good reviews about Mahjongg Cafe but when we got there it looked pretty plain, and it was at the back end of Portside, meaning no River Views. Convinced we could get a better offer closer to the water we decided on Byblos Bar, completely won over by the fluro orange table settings - so funky amongst the posh furnishings of Manx, Sono and the like...
3 Bistro - 3 out of 3
Part of my job is taking our Clients out for dinner meetings or reward nights, and I have to say - although it is definately still "working" - I enjoy it immensely. I have been able to go to quite a lot of restaurants I normally couldn't afford to, especially not this often.
After an inhouse conference at The Emporium Hotel, we retired downstairs for a quick cocktail and then dinner at 3 Bistro. Be warned, the bar is VERY small, really just a holding pen for diners waiting on their table to be free, or waiting on that last dinner guest to arrive... (I'm not throwing stones here - that guest is usually me, hubby was born without any concept of time - it's a genetic thing).
That being said though, quality should not be judged by size - and in this case, the drinks were great. We had a cachophony of drinks, and even while rattling off the list - the bartender didn't bat an eyelid and had them presented in minutes - highly impressive.
It's a little thing - but my tipple is Vodka, Lime and Lemonade - there is nothing I hate more than lime cordial... yes it has it's place - but in my opinion, that should be Kindergartens only... Anyway - I digress, Bistro 3 make my drinks the way I like them - in a short glass, with the vodka pounded into fresh lime, then topped with ice and lemonade. It really should be the only way.
Gianni's and watched in horror as a glass was pulled from the hot dishwasher, the bartender decided I didn't need ice and then made my drink with Vodka, Home Brand lemonade from the bottle and a super-generous glug of lime cordial... Yes it was during a Christmas function - but still... I begrudgingly paid $10 for that drink - but next time I think I'll offer to make my own...
Moving on to the dinner, the service was great considering we had a large group and they'd had a few drinks... I have to say I was impressed. I started with the Mooloolaba prawn starter, I'm always a sucker for a seafood entree, and I wasn't disappointed. The prawns were cooked perfectly - one was actually underdone, but in the spirit of sashimi, the prawn was good enough quality that this wasn't an issue.
To be honest I found the menu at Bistro 3 a little strange, not quite Fine Dining - although the quality of the furnishing's would say otherwise, not quite Cafe fare - but there's a burger and Chicken Kiev listed... In the way that a Bistro is midway between these points - I guess they have named the Restaurant well. That being said - I'm married to a Butcher and rarely feel the need to order steak in a Restaurant, unless it sounds amazing, or there's nothing else that interests me. In this case - it was a little of both. I love a well made Bearnaise sauce, and that coupled with creamed potatoes and bacon wrapped tomatoes just sounded divine.
And there was nothing else that grabbed me.
Although my hand was forced, the steak was great. Perfectly cooked, well rested and a Bearnaise sauce as good as any I had while frequenting French Restaurants overseas. It was definately one to tell hubby about when I got home.
Now - I'm going to admit something that not too many people know about... I always choose my dessert before anything else. In the same way that some people match wines to their meal, liqueurs to their coffees... Dessert is my passion and I would eat it first if people didn't laugh at me!
So when we got to Bistro 3, the first thing I did was ask to see the dessert menu. I'm not ashamed to admit that I'm a complete chocolate-whore. I try, I honestly do, but I see the word - and my decision is made. Although, in my defence - how good does this sound: Warm Chocolate Fudge Sundae, White Chocolate and Raspberries. OMG. Sounds like heaven to me!
After an inhouse conference at The Emporium Hotel, we retired downstairs for a quick cocktail and then dinner at 3 Bistro. Be warned, the bar is VERY small, really just a holding pen for diners waiting on their table to be free, or waiting on that last dinner guest to arrive... (I'm not throwing stones here - that guest is usually me, hubby was born without any concept of time - it's a genetic thing).
That being said though, quality should not be judged by size - and in this case, the drinks were great. We had a cachophony of drinks, and even while rattling off the list - the bartender didn't bat an eyelid and had them presented in minutes - highly impressive.
It's a little thing - but my tipple is Vodka, Lime and Lemonade - there is nothing I hate more than lime cordial... yes it has it's place - but in my opinion, that should be Kindergartens only... Anyway - I digress, Bistro 3 make my drinks the way I like them - in a short glass, with the vodka pounded into fresh lime, then topped with ice and lemonade. It really should be the only way.
Gianni's and watched in horror as a glass was pulled from the hot dishwasher, the bartender decided I didn't need ice and then made my drink with Vodka, Home Brand lemonade from the bottle and a super-generous glug of lime cordial... Yes it was during a Christmas function - but still... I begrudgingly paid $10 for that drink - but next time I think I'll offer to make my own...
Moving on to the dinner, the service was great considering we had a large group and they'd had a few drinks... I have to say I was impressed. I started with the Mooloolaba prawn starter, I'm always a sucker for a seafood entree, and I wasn't disappointed. The prawns were cooked perfectly - one was actually underdone, but in the spirit of sashimi, the prawn was good enough quality that this wasn't an issue.
To be honest I found the menu at Bistro 3 a little strange, not quite Fine Dining - although the quality of the furnishing's would say otherwise, not quite Cafe fare - but there's a burger and Chicken Kiev listed... In the way that a Bistro is midway between these points - I guess they have named the Restaurant well. That being said - I'm married to a Butcher and rarely feel the need to order steak in a Restaurant, unless it sounds amazing, or there's nothing else that interests me. In this case - it was a little of both. I love a well made Bearnaise sauce, and that coupled with creamed potatoes and bacon wrapped tomatoes just sounded divine.
And there was nothing else that grabbed me.
Although my hand was forced, the steak was great. Perfectly cooked, well rested and a Bearnaise sauce as good as any I had while frequenting French Restaurants overseas. It was definately one to tell hubby about when I got home.
Now - I'm going to admit something that not too many people know about... I always choose my dessert before anything else. In the same way that some people match wines to their meal, liqueurs to their coffees... Dessert is my passion and I would eat it first if people didn't laugh at me!
So when we got to Bistro 3, the first thing I did was ask to see the dessert menu. I'm not ashamed to admit that I'm a complete chocolate-whore. I try, I honestly do, but I see the word - and my decision is made. Although, in my defence - how good does this sound: Warm Chocolate Fudge Sundae, White Chocolate and Raspberries. OMG. Sounds like heaven to me!
07 November 2009
Emporium Hotel Brisbane - It's official, I'm in love!
Having recently gotten married and come back to work with mild post-Honeymoon depression, we got a surprise cheque in the mail from some overseas family congratulating us on the wedding.
Rather than being boring (read: responsible), I decided to surprise Hubby with a special overnighter in the city with dinner and cocktails - something we almost never get to do anymore since we left the Valley and the luxury of being able to stumble home after a few too many... now one of us (usually me) has to drive, schlepping our sorry butts back the 'burbs.
After a lot of research on Trip Advisor and asking my resident snobs for recommendations - I decided on the Emporium Hotel in the Valley, only slightly concerned because they were almost booked out and the only room available was for a Standard Suite. For me - those two words don't go together. Standard = Average; Suite = Awesome. I was a little bit uneasy not knowing what to expect, having being burnt before by over-glamorous Hotel website photography.
Checking into the Hotel was a fabulous experience - and not just because Hubby had no idea until we had literally handed our keys to the Concierge - but because of all the little tricks that make it a true 5 Star Hotel.
#1, I love it when Concierge ask you your name so that they can park your car - then discreetly pass the details to Reception so that they can greet you by name at the desk and have you paperwork ready.
#2, I love it when they actually make notes in bookings and act on it. They congratulated us on our wedding, there was a bottle of champagne on ice waiting for us in our room and Concierge appeared with 2 Cocktail Vouchers as a gift. What an impression!
FYI - The Cocktail Bar is absolutely divine and is not to be missed. (Trust me on that one - leave yourself time and room for at least 2-3 drinks here...)
The rooms themselves are worth every penny. While some will argue that they are masculine - and they would be right - the colours, textures and quality of all the furnishing truly add up to a decadent experience. And for those of us that honestly can't take another frilled curtain or rose motif - the bold, masculine colours are a welcome change.
The beds are ridiculously comfortable and a pillow menu is available, the TV is bigger than the couch and behind some very clever bifold doors there is actually a full kitchenette.
But I save the best for last - the bathroom deserves to be on MTV Cribs - all grass and chrome, with Molton Brown toiletries and uber-soft robes and towels - I guarantee you'll cry when you have to leave. (I know I had to prise hubby from the room with every ounce of strength I had.)
We have stayed here twice now, and anytime I'm asked for a Hotel reccommendation - Emporium is top of my list. With James Street Markets and all the Emporium Restaurants at your disposal - it's a great place to grab breakky the morning after too...
The Verdict: True Luxury in the Heart of the Valley
My Recommendations: Make time to have a cocktail in their stunning bar, Go for a midnight swim on the rooftop pool and be prepared for withdrawl symptoms the moment you check out...
Contact: Emporium Hotel
Rather than being boring (read: responsible), I decided to surprise Hubby with a special overnighter in the city with dinner and cocktails - something we almost never get to do anymore since we left the Valley and the luxury of being able to stumble home after a few too many... now one of us (usually me) has to drive, schlepping our sorry butts back the 'burbs.
After a lot of research on Trip Advisor and asking my resident snobs for recommendations - I decided on the Emporium Hotel in the Valley, only slightly concerned because they were almost booked out and the only room available was for a Standard Suite. For me - those two words don't go together. Standard = Average; Suite = Awesome. I was a little bit uneasy not knowing what to expect, having being burnt before by over-glamorous Hotel website photography.
Checking into the Hotel was a fabulous experience - and not just because Hubby had no idea until we had literally handed our keys to the Concierge - but because of all the little tricks that make it a true 5 Star Hotel.
#1, I love it when Concierge ask you your name so that they can park your car - then discreetly pass the details to Reception so that they can greet you by name at the desk and have you paperwork ready.
#2, I love it when they actually make notes in bookings and act on it. They congratulated us on our wedding, there was a bottle of champagne on ice waiting for us in our room and Concierge appeared with 2 Cocktail Vouchers as a gift. What an impression!
FYI - The Cocktail Bar is absolutely divine and is not to be missed. (Trust me on that one - leave yourself time and room for at least 2-3 drinks here...)
The rooms themselves are worth every penny. While some will argue that they are masculine - and they would be right - the colours, textures and quality of all the furnishing truly add up to a decadent experience. And for those of us that honestly can't take another frilled curtain or rose motif - the bold, masculine colours are a welcome change.
The beds are ridiculously comfortable and a pillow menu is available, the TV is bigger than the couch and behind some very clever bifold doors there is actually a full kitchenette.
But I save the best for last - the bathroom deserves to be on MTV Cribs - all grass and chrome, with Molton Brown toiletries and uber-soft robes and towels - I guarantee you'll cry when you have to leave. (I know I had to prise hubby from the room with every ounce of strength I had.)
We have stayed here twice now, and anytime I'm asked for a Hotel reccommendation - Emporium is top of my list. With James Street Markets and all the Emporium Restaurants at your disposal - it's a great place to grab breakky the morning after too...
The Verdict: True Luxury in the Heart of the Valley
My Recommendations: Make time to have a cocktail in their stunning bar, Go for a midnight swim on the rooftop pool and be prepared for withdrawl symptoms the moment you check out...
Contact: Emporium Hotel
Jupiters Casino - Thank God there's more options now!
Life as a Sales Rep can be a bit "Forest Gumpy" - you never really know what you're going to get when you leave the safety of your home.
I book most of my travel on Wotif.com and if it's somewhere new, I do a bit of cyber-stalking first on Trip Advisor - however, this doesn't stop me from ending up in hellholes all over the state.
There was the "B&B" that was actually someone's converted garage - described as a "Garden Room", I guess they didn't technically lie as you did have to squeeze through their hedge to get to the door.
There was the 4 Star Hotel in a Mining Town that had a completely stainless steel bathroom - and no, I don't mean in an "Industrially Funky" kind of way... more like it would be convenient for them to hose your blood down the drain after some freak murdered you in your sleep...
And then there is Jupiters Townsville. Now I'm not saying that Jupiters is a horror story, that it's unsafe or in some way "freaky" - but there is a limit to the number of times you can tell a Hotel that you are a non-smoker, that you have athsma and that you need a room with working aircon before you give up and go elsewhere.
Before last year, I tolerated their complete lack of customer service - but now Townsville has so many more options - and thank god for that!!
After 20+ visits to Jupiters (by which time I should have been some kind of celebrated guest?) - they were still putting me in smoking rooms, putting me on floors that were being renovated (dirty, dusty and loud), I put up with eating cold and bland buffet items and even arguing with Valet parking when they tried to give me the keys for someone elses car...
But no more!!! - now I stay at Hotel M or Grand Mercure Apartments and it is so WONDERFUL to be appreciated as a customer.
The Verdict: I will never go back - I would rather sleep in my hire car.
My Recommendations: Try Hotel M or Grand Mercure Apartments, otherwise - if you must stay here - demand a non-smoking room in one of their renovated rooms... they must have finished some of them by now surely...
Contact: Jupiters Townsville
I book most of my travel on Wotif.com and if it's somewhere new, I do a bit of cyber-stalking first on Trip Advisor - however, this doesn't stop me from ending up in hellholes all over the state.
There was the "B&B" that was actually someone's converted garage - described as a "Garden Room", I guess they didn't technically lie as you did have to squeeze through their hedge to get to the door.
There was the 4 Star Hotel in a Mining Town that had a completely stainless steel bathroom - and no, I don't mean in an "Industrially Funky" kind of way... more like it would be convenient for them to hose your blood down the drain after some freak murdered you in your sleep...
And then there is Jupiters Townsville. Now I'm not saying that Jupiters is a horror story, that it's unsafe or in some way "freaky" - but there is a limit to the number of times you can tell a Hotel that you are a non-smoker, that you have athsma and that you need a room with working aircon before you give up and go elsewhere.
Before last year, I tolerated their complete lack of customer service - but now Townsville has so many more options - and thank god for that!!
After 20+ visits to Jupiters (by which time I should have been some kind of celebrated guest?) - they were still putting me in smoking rooms, putting me on floors that were being renovated (dirty, dusty and loud), I put up with eating cold and bland buffet items and even arguing with Valet parking when they tried to give me the keys for someone elses car...
But no more!!! - now I stay at Hotel M or Grand Mercure Apartments and it is so WONDERFUL to be appreciated as a customer.
The Verdict: I will never go back - I would rather sleep in my hire car.
My Recommendations: Try Hotel M or Grand Mercure Apartments, otherwise - if you must stay here - demand a non-smoking room in one of their renovated rooms... they must have finished some of them by now surely...
Contact: Jupiters Townsville
K&K Austrian Bakery
It constantly amazes me just how hard it can be to find a decent breakfast... even more so now that we have moved out to the 'burbs.
So when I saw a glowing review for the K and K Austrian Bakery at Sinnamon Park, I just had to give it a try.
So this morning, with hubby sporting a mammoth hangover, we ventured out to try and find our new "local". It's tucked away fairly discreetly in a small strip mall but definately worth the trip. We had a quick look at the baked delights while we sussed out whether it was an "order at the counter" or table service - not finding any special treasures on display, we took a seat and flicked through the all day breakfast menu.
While there's nothing out of the ordinary on the menu - all the usual offenders are there - croissants, bacon and eggs, French toast, Omelettes etc. Hubby is usually a big breakfast man and despite his assurances that "my omelettes are always the best" - he decided to give K&K's a go. I tossed up between the French Toast and Eggs Benedict - but the pull of Hollandaise was just too strong.
We also ordered a coffee and iced chocolate - the latter getting high praise from hubby as one of the best he's had. My coffee was good... extra hot, the way I like it, but the coffee (once it had cooled past scalding) tasted smoky - not in a bad way, and I actually quite enjoyed it - but a little bit odd.
Our brekkies arrived and mine was not quite what I expected. A large, thick piece of toast with fresh ham, 2 poached eggs and frissee lettuce was quite literally swimming in the palest, and runniest Hollandaise I have ever seen. I will be 100% honest here and admit that asides from Oktoberfest and one dinner at the Blackforest Cafe in Wooloongabba - I don't know that much about Austrian or German food. So maybe this is how they do Hollandaise? I don't know - but it was weird. It tasted okay, but it certainly wasn't the rich, creamy and slightly zingy sauce that I have grown to love over the years - but it was okay.
Hubby on the other hand did something that he rarely manages to do... he out-ordered me. His Iced Chocolate was great, and they had used real ice cream AND real cream. It wasn't ridiculously chocolate-y, just a perfectly blended chocolate milk. Simple but wonderful. He also ordered the omelette and declared it the best one he ever had outside of my Jamie Oliver pan. I snavelled a taste - and he was right - it was beautifully light and fluffy while having LOADS of red onion, shaved ham and tasty cheese. Garnished with fresh chives and cracked pepper - I had food envy.
We will definatey go back, next time I will have the French Toast and we might even grab a couple of pastries to take home...
The Verdict: It wasn't Hollandaise sauce - but it definately wasn't a failure - we'll be back!
My recommendations: The omelette, the ice chocolate and something noice to take home...
Contact: K and K Austrian Bakery
So when I saw a glowing review for the K and K Austrian Bakery at Sinnamon Park, I just had to give it a try.
So this morning, with hubby sporting a mammoth hangover, we ventured out to try and find our new "local". It's tucked away fairly discreetly in a small strip mall but definately worth the trip. We had a quick look at the baked delights while we sussed out whether it was an "order at the counter" or table service - not finding any special treasures on display, we took a seat and flicked through the all day breakfast menu.
While there's nothing out of the ordinary on the menu - all the usual offenders are there - croissants, bacon and eggs, French toast, Omelettes etc. Hubby is usually a big breakfast man and despite his assurances that "my omelettes are always the best" - he decided to give K&K's a go. I tossed up between the French Toast and Eggs Benedict - but the pull of Hollandaise was just too strong.
We also ordered a coffee and iced chocolate - the latter getting high praise from hubby as one of the best he's had. My coffee was good... extra hot, the way I like it, but the coffee (once it had cooled past scalding) tasted smoky - not in a bad way, and I actually quite enjoyed it - but a little bit odd.
Our brekkies arrived and mine was not quite what I expected. A large, thick piece of toast with fresh ham, 2 poached eggs and frissee lettuce was quite literally swimming in the palest, and runniest Hollandaise I have ever seen. I will be 100% honest here and admit that asides from Oktoberfest and one dinner at the Blackforest Cafe in Wooloongabba - I don't know that much about Austrian or German food. So maybe this is how they do Hollandaise? I don't know - but it was weird. It tasted okay, but it certainly wasn't the rich, creamy and slightly zingy sauce that I have grown to love over the years - but it was okay.
Hubby on the other hand did something that he rarely manages to do... he out-ordered me. His Iced Chocolate was great, and they had used real ice cream AND real cream. It wasn't ridiculously chocolate-y, just a perfectly blended chocolate milk. Simple but wonderful. He also ordered the omelette and declared it the best one he ever had outside of my Jamie Oliver pan. I snavelled a taste - and he was right - it was beautifully light and fluffy while having LOADS of red onion, shaved ham and tasty cheese. Garnished with fresh chives and cracked pepper - I had food envy.
We will definatey go back, next time I will have the French Toast and we might even grab a couple of pastries to take home...
The Verdict: It wasn't Hollandaise sauce - but it definately wasn't a failure - we'll be back!
My recommendations: The omelette, the ice chocolate and something noice to take home...
Contact: K and K Austrian Bakery
05 November 2009
Kingscliff Peppers Bale - Lovely but lacking...
I know my Blog says "Adventures around Brisbane and QLD" and it is... really... I rarely make it out of the state - but when I do, I hope you don't mind if I share.
It was recently my Sister-in-Law's wedding so we packed up the RAV and off we trekked to Kingscliff for what was promised (and delivered) to be a wonderful weekend.
We were booked into Peppers Bale Salt which I was super-excited about.. my SIL is a complete snob and we love her for it, and she loves Bale. So if she loves Bale, it MUST be good! We were sharing a room with SIL #2 and as they checked in first we were flying blind over where to go, where to check in, where to park... and the place was desserted.
After driving around aimlessly for 20 minutes and wondering if people were thinking we were casing the joint - SIL finally answered her phone and came to guide us in. Now I love fancy Hotels, I love the nice furnishings, the air of exclusivity and the general feeling of being pampered. I also love the security that comes with this kind of price tag - but Bale has taken that to a whole new level.
You need a swipe card to get into the car park, *swipe* to get into the lift, *swipe* to select your floor and then - because the lifts don't service all of the rooms - *swipe* to get into the next lift, *swipe* to pick your floor again and FINALLY *swipe* to get into you room... OMG - I was exhausted by all the swiping. (And you have to repeat the process to actually get back down to the carpark...)
The rooms - once you've swiped your way to a permanent RSI, are stunning and worth every swipe. They are all fully self contained apartments with top of the range appliances, super comfy beds, massive spa baths and RAIN SHOWERS! For anyone suffering through Brisbane's water restrictions - a rain shower head is like glass enclosed heaven.
Our stay - in a nutshell - was fabulous. Salt Village is wonderful and we will definately go back. Bale is impeccable and every need is catered for in your very smart and luxurious surroundings. The only thing I can fault them on is their lack of staff. In the 2 days we were there I only ever saw the gardener. When I rang the front desk to ask about check out - the phone rang out twice without being answered.
Because Bale is it's own resort but also owned by Peppers Salt - when we were ready to check out and because their were no staff - we didn't know where to go. After wandering around like a homeless person for 30mins looking for other Hotel's Reception desk - I wandered through a garden (and the buggers turned the sprinklers on!) and found the line-up to check out... it was about 20 guests deep with only 2 receptionists on duty and one of them was on the phone... Not a good exit.
The Verdict: Immaculate and gorgeous apartments worthy of the longest stay you can muster. We will definately go back. The rates are pretty hefty - about $330 for a one bedroom apartment, but only $380 for a two bedroom... so makes sense to go with friends!
My Recommendations: Don't forget your swipe card!
Contact: Peppers Bale Salt
It was recently my Sister-in-Law's wedding so we packed up the RAV and off we trekked to Kingscliff for what was promised (and delivered) to be a wonderful weekend.
We were booked into Peppers Bale Salt which I was super-excited about.. my SIL is a complete snob and we love her for it, and she loves Bale. So if she loves Bale, it MUST be good! We were sharing a room with SIL #2 and as they checked in first we were flying blind over where to go, where to check in, where to park... and the place was desserted.
After driving around aimlessly for 20 minutes and wondering if people were thinking we were casing the joint - SIL finally answered her phone and came to guide us in. Now I love fancy Hotels, I love the nice furnishings, the air of exclusivity and the general feeling of being pampered. I also love the security that comes with this kind of price tag - but Bale has taken that to a whole new level.
You need a swipe card to get into the car park, *swipe* to get into the lift, *swipe* to select your floor and then - because the lifts don't service all of the rooms - *swipe* to get into the next lift, *swipe* to pick your floor again and FINALLY *swipe* to get into you room... OMG - I was exhausted by all the swiping. (And you have to repeat the process to actually get back down to the carpark...)
The rooms - once you've swiped your way to a permanent RSI, are stunning and worth every swipe. They are all fully self contained apartments with top of the range appliances, super comfy beds, massive spa baths and RAIN SHOWERS! For anyone suffering through Brisbane's water restrictions - a rain shower head is like glass enclosed heaven.
Our stay - in a nutshell - was fabulous. Salt Village is wonderful and we will definately go back. Bale is impeccable and every need is catered for in your very smart and luxurious surroundings. The only thing I can fault them on is their lack of staff. In the 2 days we were there I only ever saw the gardener. When I rang the front desk to ask about check out - the phone rang out twice without being answered.
Because Bale is it's own resort but also owned by Peppers Salt - when we were ready to check out and because their were no staff - we didn't know where to go. After wandering around like a homeless person for 30mins looking for other Hotel's Reception desk - I wandered through a garden (and the buggers turned the sprinklers on!) and found the line-up to check out... it was about 20 guests deep with only 2 receptionists on duty and one of them was on the phone... Not a good exit.
The Verdict: Immaculate and gorgeous apartments worthy of the longest stay you can muster. We will definately go back. The rates are pretty hefty - about $330 for a one bedroom apartment, but only $380 for a two bedroom... so makes sense to go with friends!
My Recommendations: Don't forget your swipe card!
Contact: Peppers Bale Salt
Brasserie on the River - Best Brunch in Town
So it was time to meet our mate's new girlfriend - and what better way than over Brunch at one of Brisbane's nicest Hotels?
While Bill and Bec are no longer an item, the Brasserie on the River
has firmly placed itself on our favourites list for Brunch so we're grateful to their short-term union for that fact alone!
For me, while I love the traditional things in life - when it comes to a good quality Brunch - there has to be variety. Variety is the spice of life, and variety is also the mark of a damn fine Brunch.
Let me explain - there should be at least 3 types of eggs; preferably poached, scrambled and fried - but I'll also accept boiled. There should be a nice selection of sides - tomatoes, bacon, sausages, hash browns (must be crunchy or don't bother), home made baked beans etc. The bread basket should have different styles of bread - and I don't mean the same bread shaped differently - I mean sourdough, rye, bagels, Vienna loaf.. you know, different bread!
But most of all, there should also be a selection of sweets... real French pastries, croissants, waffles, pancakes and ice cream.
Now - the Brasserie had all of these things and more. And I sampled most (read: all of it, and went back for seconds...) of it. But what won me over completely... was the Museli station. Thats right - they had a whole bench for museli. Fresh and toasted, fruit and non-fruit and best of all... Bircher. But I'm not finished... NO! They also had at least 10 different kinds of fruit, fresh and dried, poached and stewed all sitting happily next to the nuts... WOW! Who ever thought of a museli bar - the Stamford, that's who. And that's why they're #1 on my Brunch list.
The Verdict: WOW. It was everything I expected and more, so much more. I can't wait to go back - at $50 a person, it's not cheap and it would be wasted on a hangover - so plan in advance.
My Recommendation: The coffee here is good too, but order the minute you walk through the door because they aren't quick, but it's worth waiting for. Start with the savoury (bacon and eggs), move on to the sweet (pancakes and waffles), end on something healthy so you feel positive about the day (fruit and museli) and then, because you never really finish a buffet when you should - order another coffee and much on some French pastries while you admire the view. Don't forget your Sunnies, it's pretty glassy out there.
Contact: Stamford Plaza - Brasserie on the River
While Bill and Bec are no longer an item, the Brasserie on the River
has firmly placed itself on our favourites list for Brunch so we're grateful to their short-term union for that fact alone!
For me, while I love the traditional things in life - when it comes to a good quality Brunch - there has to be variety. Variety is the spice of life, and variety is also the mark of a damn fine Brunch.
Let me explain - there should be at least 3 types of eggs; preferably poached, scrambled and fried - but I'll also accept boiled. There should be a nice selection of sides - tomatoes, bacon, sausages, hash browns (must be crunchy or don't bother), home made baked beans etc. The bread basket should have different styles of bread - and I don't mean the same bread shaped differently - I mean sourdough, rye, bagels, Vienna loaf.. you know, different bread!
But most of all, there should also be a selection of sweets... real French pastries, croissants, waffles, pancakes and ice cream.
Now - the Brasserie had all of these things and more. And I sampled most (read: all of it, and went back for seconds...) of it. But what won me over completely... was the Museli station. Thats right - they had a whole bench for museli. Fresh and toasted, fruit and non-fruit and best of all... Bircher. But I'm not finished... NO! They also had at least 10 different kinds of fruit, fresh and dried, poached and stewed all sitting happily next to the nuts... WOW! Who ever thought of a museli bar - the Stamford, that's who. And that's why they're #1 on my Brunch list.
The Verdict: WOW. It was everything I expected and more, so much more. I can't wait to go back - at $50 a person, it's not cheap and it would be wasted on a hangover - so plan in advance.
My Recommendation: The coffee here is good too, but order the minute you walk through the door because they aren't quick, but it's worth waiting for. Start with the savoury (bacon and eggs), move on to the sweet (pancakes and waffles), end on something healthy so you feel positive about the day (fruit and museli) and then, because you never really finish a buffet when you should - order another coffee and much on some French pastries while you admire the view. Don't forget your Sunnies, it's pretty glassy out there.
Contact: Stamford Plaza - Brasserie on the River
Stamford Plaza - My, how posh we are...
After a fairly successful run at work, my boss was good enough to shout my Hubby and I to a night away and dinner to celebrate.
He recommended the Stamford Plaza Brisbane and Siggi's and while I was happy to take him up on the offer of the Hotel, Siggi'sisn't really our style and we'd only recently been talking about how much we would like to try the Teppanyaki at Kabuki.
So we booked in for a Deluxe Room, I got there first and checked in and was surprisingly presented with 2 free drink vochers by the super-perky receptionist. "So far, so good" I thought smugly. And the smugness continued through the luxurious lobby, all the way to our room on carpet so plush I thought I might trip a couple of times and right into our elegantly furnished room on the 12th floor which had spectacular River and Story Bridge views. *wow*
The next thing I know, there's a phone call from Reception asking if I "was expecting a guest?" - uh, yes - my husband. Eventually, there's a knock at the door and hubby arrives red faced and annoyed. Apparently when he pulled into the entrance, the concierge looked him up and down (he was still in his work clothes) and curtly directed him to the Service Entrance. When hubby tried to explain that he was a Guest and I had already checked in, the Concierge again looked him up and down, grunted and pointed him towards Reception where the same act was repeated by the Receptionist. Hmmm...
We tried to put that behind us, got all glammed up and hit the bar to redeem our drinks vouchers and head out to dinner.
After dinner, we took a dip in the gorgeous pool enjoying the city lights and giggling like school kids at the old nannas sneaking a perve behind a partially closed curtain.
All in all, it was a wonderful stay. The room was spacious and elegant with its muted furnishings. The view was spectacular, and would be a room of choice for Riverfire and I loved the Aveda amenities. They were even generous enough to provide a welcome package of bottled water and Byron Bay Cookies - a nice touch.
The Verdict: A gorgeous Hotel but I thought the "turning up of the noses" was an old school British thing? Maybe we were just unlucky - but hubby learnt his lesson, he'll never again try to go somewhere nice in his work clothes!
My Recommendations: Request a high floor with River views, and definately book in for breakfast if not dinner. The Pavilion Bar downstairs is great - but very pricey, although we got our first drink for free - I'm sure we didn't get change from $20 for the next two (1 each).
Contact: Stamford Plaza Brisbane
He recommended the Stamford Plaza Brisbane and Siggi's and while I was happy to take him up on the offer of the Hotel, Siggi'sisn't really our style and we'd only recently been talking about how much we would like to try the Teppanyaki at Kabuki.
So we booked in for a Deluxe Room, I got there first and checked in and was surprisingly presented with 2 free drink vochers by the super-perky receptionist. "So far, so good" I thought smugly. And the smugness continued through the luxurious lobby, all the way to our room on carpet so plush I thought I might trip a couple of times and right into our elegantly furnished room on the 12th floor which had spectacular River and Story Bridge views. *wow*
The next thing I know, there's a phone call from Reception asking if I "was expecting a guest?" - uh, yes - my husband. Eventually, there's a knock at the door and hubby arrives red faced and annoyed. Apparently when he pulled into the entrance, the concierge looked him up and down (he was still in his work clothes) and curtly directed him to the Service Entrance. When hubby tried to explain that he was a Guest and I had already checked in, the Concierge again looked him up and down, grunted and pointed him towards Reception where the same act was repeated by the Receptionist. Hmmm...
We tried to put that behind us, got all glammed up and hit the bar to redeem our drinks vouchers and head out to dinner.
After dinner, we took a dip in the gorgeous pool enjoying the city lights and giggling like school kids at the old nannas sneaking a perve behind a partially closed curtain.
All in all, it was a wonderful stay. The room was spacious and elegant with its muted furnishings. The view was spectacular, and would be a room of choice for Riverfire and I loved the Aveda amenities. They were even generous enough to provide a welcome package of bottled water and Byron Bay Cookies - a nice touch.
The Verdict: A gorgeous Hotel but I thought the "turning up of the noses" was an old school British thing? Maybe we were just unlucky - but hubby learnt his lesson, he'll never again try to go somewhere nice in his work clothes!
My Recommendations: Request a high floor with River views, and definately book in for breakfast if not dinner. The Pavilion Bar downstairs is great - but very pricey, although we got our first drink for free - I'm sure we didn't get change from $20 for the next two (1 each).
Contact: Stamford Plaza Brisbane
Kabuki - throw a prawn on the Barbie!
Whats not to like about Teppanyaki? It's dinner and theatre all in one go- with a side order of danger... well that might be overdoing it - unless you're wearing something expensive and don't have good hand-eye coordination...
We've eaten at Kabuki Kabuki twice now - first on the work expense card as a "Thank you" from my boss (Thanks Paulie!) and secondly as our Xmas gift to hubby's family. They're a hard lot to buy for - and all up there's 10 of us in total - so we've started giving "experiences" for Xmas. It makes it easy - we pick something, buy 10 gift vouchers and we all go out together. Surely that's the spirit of Christmas personified, no?
So anyway... after a fantastic trial run at Kabukiwe splashed out and got the family gift vouchers for dinner and booked in for a night for fun and fabulous food.
Being Christmas (well not really, it was several months later - this family has no concept of time and it took us a while to organise) we felt festive and all decided on the most expensive set menu, RAN for $98.50 per person. We happily ooh'ed and ahh'ed our way through the menu - we had one of the younger Chef's who quite happily performed like a rockstar with BBQ tongs - I think we did wonders for his ego! And everything was going swimmingly well until the part where they make the omelette and the fried rice...
My Sister-in-Law is usually quite dexterous so I was surprised when she missed the egg. But like a trooper she carried on, big smile on her face while the Chef finished the rice. Then when the rice came to be thrown, she missed that too... strange we thought... but we were pretty easily distracted by the food.
Then - when everyone had their bowls of rice and was happily snarfing away, she politely excused herself to the bathroom. Only later, when we were leaving the Restaurant did she tell us that when she missed the egg, it broke on the bowl went down her top and then down the front of her skirt. She didn't want to make a scene, but when she missed the rice - the rice was then also stuck all down the front of her top and glued there by the egg... She had no choice but the barricade the bathroom door shut, strip off and have a quick makeshift shower in the sink!
Asides from the comedic interlude to the evening, the food was fantastic - in essence, it's very simple, good quality food cooked quickly on a super-hot BBQ plate with a few select seasonings. It really does show that it is the quality of the food which is the star. I would happily go back in a heartbeat - while the food was amazing, it really is the production and star qualities of the Chefs which make it so memorable. Without all the hype - there's no way I would have tried grilled prawn heads... but I did... and I loved it!
The Verdict: Brilliant but expensive, best with a group but we had a great time when we were at a table full of strangers. You HAVE to try the prawn heads!
My recommendation: Go for the most expensive set meal you can afford - that way you get to try as much as possible. The quality of the food is amazing, and you'll be stunned by how flavoursome it is for such simple cooking. Definately give the Green Tea ice cream a go if you haven't already - it's the perfect end to the meal.
Contact: Kabuki
We've eaten at Kabuki Kabuki twice now - first on the work expense card as a "Thank you" from my boss (Thanks Paulie!) and secondly as our Xmas gift to hubby's family. They're a hard lot to buy for - and all up there's 10 of us in total - so we've started giving "experiences" for Xmas. It makes it easy - we pick something, buy 10 gift vouchers and we all go out together. Surely that's the spirit of Christmas personified, no?
So anyway... after a fantastic trial run at Kabukiwe splashed out and got the family gift vouchers for dinner and booked in for a night for fun and fabulous food.
Being Christmas (well not really, it was several months later - this family has no concept of time and it took us a while to organise) we felt festive and all decided on the most expensive set menu, RAN for $98.50 per person. We happily ooh'ed and ahh'ed our way through the menu - we had one of the younger Chef's who quite happily performed like a rockstar with BBQ tongs - I think we did wonders for his ego! And everything was going swimmingly well until the part where they make the omelette and the fried rice...
My Sister-in-Law is usually quite dexterous so I was surprised when she missed the egg. But like a trooper she carried on, big smile on her face while the Chef finished the rice. Then when the rice came to be thrown, she missed that too... strange we thought... but we were pretty easily distracted by the food.
Then - when everyone had their bowls of rice and was happily snarfing away, she politely excused herself to the bathroom. Only later, when we were leaving the Restaurant did she tell us that when she missed the egg, it broke on the bowl went down her top and then down the front of her skirt. She didn't want to make a scene, but when she missed the rice - the rice was then also stuck all down the front of her top and glued there by the egg... She had no choice but the barricade the bathroom door shut, strip off and have a quick makeshift shower in the sink!
Asides from the comedic interlude to the evening, the food was fantastic - in essence, it's very simple, good quality food cooked quickly on a super-hot BBQ plate with a few select seasonings. It really does show that it is the quality of the food which is the star. I would happily go back in a heartbeat - while the food was amazing, it really is the production and star qualities of the Chefs which make it so memorable. Without all the hype - there's no way I would have tried grilled prawn heads... but I did... and I loved it!
The Verdict: Brilliant but expensive, best with a group but we had a great time when we were at a table full of strangers. You HAVE to try the prawn heads!
My recommendation: Go for the most expensive set meal you can afford - that way you get to try as much as possible. The quality of the food is amazing, and you'll be stunned by how flavoursome it is for such simple cooking. Definately give the Green Tea ice cream a go if you haven't already - it's the perfect end to the meal.
Contact: Kabuki
04 November 2009
Vespa Pizza - Be still my revving heart!
It seems like such a simple thing... but it's obviously not - why else would there be so many bad pizza places in Brisbane? Thankfully, Vespa Pizza
has standards... and damn high ones at that!
I won't lie to you - it can be expensive, and depending on your level of hunger - you can easily eat a whole one yourself. But if you subscribe to the theory that "you get what you pay for" - then you will be a loyal Vespa customer just like me!
Is it the super crisp bases, wood fired and slightly charred on the bottom that has me hooked? Could it be the sublime ingredients? Or could it be that these guys actually KNOW how to make a pizza so good it gives me happy goosebumps? Check. Check. And Check.
My favourite here is the 9mm. I immediately thought of the gun reference and it had me intrigued - while it didn't taste like gunpowder, didn't have my mouth smoking and didn't cause any long lasting damage (all in a good way) - after the first bite, if I did own a gun, you can safely say that it would have been on the table as a warning that "I do not share". Usually I'm good at sharing... in fact I'm currently giving hubby lessons on sharing - but when it came to that Pizza - he didn't have a chance in hell of getting a bite! It was without a doubt the best Pepperoni and Olive pizza I have had outside of Italy!
Hubby had the "3 little Piggies" - and loved it. The Hippies had the "Cinnamon pumpkin with Chilli, Sage and Fetta" and there were no definitely no complaints - especially when the waiter offered them the gluten free option.
Verdict: This little Piggy went to Vespa and can't wait to go back!!
My Recommendations: I have tried almost all of the pizzas here, after your 2nd or 3rd visit you feel more inclined to share! The Bruschetta is divine and well worth ordering, even as a share plate.
Contact: Vespa Pizza
has standards... and damn high ones at that!
I won't lie to you - it can be expensive, and depending on your level of hunger - you can easily eat a whole one yourself. But if you subscribe to the theory that "you get what you pay for" - then you will be a loyal Vespa customer just like me!
Is it the super crisp bases, wood fired and slightly charred on the bottom that has me hooked? Could it be the sublime ingredients? Or could it be that these guys actually KNOW how to make a pizza so good it gives me happy goosebumps? Check. Check. And Check.
My favourite here is the 9mm. I immediately thought of the gun reference and it had me intrigued - while it didn't taste like gunpowder, didn't have my mouth smoking and didn't cause any long lasting damage (all in a good way) - after the first bite, if I did own a gun, you can safely say that it would have been on the table as a warning that "I do not share". Usually I'm good at sharing... in fact I'm currently giving hubby lessons on sharing - but when it came to that Pizza - he didn't have a chance in hell of getting a bite! It was without a doubt the best Pepperoni and Olive pizza I have had outside of Italy!
Hubby had the "3 little Piggies" - and loved it. The Hippies had the "Cinnamon pumpkin with Chilli, Sage and Fetta" and there were no definitely no complaints - especially when the waiter offered them the gluten free option.
Verdict: This little Piggy went to Vespa and can't wait to go back!!
My Recommendations: I have tried almost all of the pizzas here, after your 2nd or 3rd visit you feel more inclined to share! The Bruschetta is divine and well worth ordering, even as a share plate.
Contact: Vespa Pizza
The Sebel Cairns - my lesson learnt.
It’s not that I didn’t like the Sebel Cairns – truth be told, it’s a gorgeous Hotel in a fantastic location. Let’s just say we got off to a bad start.
To cut a long story short – Qantas lost half my luggage (strange isn’t it? Surely if they were going to lose your luggage – they would lose all of it?) so on check in, I asked if I could purchase some flipchart paper for an upcoming presentation I needed to get ready for. "Not a problem" – as any conferencing Hotel worth their salt should be able to say – "we’ll send it up straight away".
"Fantastic!" I thought – "What a great Hotel!" I thought – "What brilliant service!" I thought.
I got to my room, impressed by the size, nice layout and furnishings – and, sorry for the detail here – darted into the bathroom to relieve myself. Now I don’t know about you – but I travel on my own quite a lot… so I rarely close the door unless I think people can see in through the windows – and even then, I’m more likely to close the curtains instead.
So there I was, happily peeing away when I hear the door open (no knock!), 2 young guys come in chatting away happily (no “Hello! Concierge!”) and put my flipchart paper on the desk. Then the penny dropped. I could almost feel their hearts stop as they heard me peeing (I couldn’t stop to save myself), see the door open and then bolt.
While I didn’t see them, and they didn’t see me – needless to say I ALWAYS use the deadbolt now.
So that being said – I was scared off from the Sebel Cairns for several months until they had a rate package so good, I had to take it up, and I have to say – I was impressed. After staying at most of the good Hotels in Cairns, the Sebel has one of the largest rooms around. The layout is nice and big enough to actually have a holiday there, the bathrooms lovely and the beds super comfy.
Room Service is not worth the wait – you’re much better off hitting theEsplanade for both choice and quality. On my last stay I had a Caesar Salad and Tiramisu – neither difficult dishes and both were below average. The Caesar had no egg, no croutons and no anchovies. There were 2 crisp slices of bacon perched on top and the rest was really just lettuce with salad cream and parmesan. It was meant to be a “Chicken Caesar” but the 3 slices (read: shaved) of chicken breast hardly warranted a mention. The Tiramisu was fine – but obviously a bought-in, bulk made dessert… you know the kind where it’s really just sponge cake alternated by different flavoured creams? Boring. And defiately not worth the exhorbitant price ticket of the dinner, as well as the cost of having to plunder the minibar afterwards.
Verdict: Fantastic Rooms but ordinary food. You may think I'm being harsh - but I find as a Sales Rep, more often than not, I just want to finish a long day with Room Service. It is so disappointing to finish your dinner and be disappointed, or worse still, hungry and find that you are already in your pajamas and not wanting to go out.
My Recommendations: Stay if the rate is good, the Hotel is in a great location - only 5 mins from the Esplanade and all the great Restaurants they have there. Don't order Room Service. Breakfast is okay, but again - I'd hit the Esplanade instead.
Contact: Sebel Cairns
To cut a long story short – Qantas lost half my luggage (strange isn’t it? Surely if they were going to lose your luggage – they would lose all of it?) so on check in, I asked if I could purchase some flipchart paper for an upcoming presentation I needed to get ready for. "Not a problem" – as any conferencing Hotel worth their salt should be able to say – "we’ll send it up straight away".
"Fantastic!" I thought – "What a great Hotel!" I thought – "What brilliant service!" I thought.
I got to my room, impressed by the size, nice layout and furnishings – and, sorry for the detail here – darted into the bathroom to relieve myself. Now I don’t know about you – but I travel on my own quite a lot… so I rarely close the door unless I think people can see in through the windows – and even then, I’m more likely to close the curtains instead.
So there I was, happily peeing away when I hear the door open (no knock!), 2 young guys come in chatting away happily (no “Hello! Concierge!”) and put my flipchart paper on the desk. Then the penny dropped. I could almost feel their hearts stop as they heard me peeing (I couldn’t stop to save myself), see the door open and then bolt.
While I didn’t see them, and they didn’t see me – needless to say I ALWAYS use the deadbolt now.
So that being said – I was scared off from the Sebel Cairns for several months until they had a rate package so good, I had to take it up, and I have to say – I was impressed. After staying at most of the good Hotels in Cairns, the Sebel has one of the largest rooms around. The layout is nice and big enough to actually have a holiday there, the bathrooms lovely and the beds super comfy.
Room Service is not worth the wait – you’re much better off hitting theEsplanade for both choice and quality. On my last stay I had a Caesar Salad and Tiramisu – neither difficult dishes and both were below average. The Caesar had no egg, no croutons and no anchovies. There were 2 crisp slices of bacon perched on top and the rest was really just lettuce with salad cream and parmesan. It was meant to be a “Chicken Caesar” but the 3 slices (read: shaved) of chicken breast hardly warranted a mention. The Tiramisu was fine – but obviously a bought-in, bulk made dessert… you know the kind where it’s really just sponge cake alternated by different flavoured creams? Boring. And defiately not worth the exhorbitant price ticket of the dinner, as well as the cost of having to plunder the minibar afterwards.
Verdict: Fantastic Rooms but ordinary food. You may think I'm being harsh - but I find as a Sales Rep, more often than not, I just want to finish a long day with Room Service. It is so disappointing to finish your dinner and be disappointed, or worse still, hungry and find that you are already in your pajamas and not wanting to go out.
My Recommendations: Stay if the rate is good, the Hotel is in a great location - only 5 mins from the Esplanade and all the great Restaurants they have there. Don't order Room Service. Breakfast is okay, but again - I'd hit the Esplanade instead.
Contact: Sebel Cairns
Ciccio's Pasta Bar
We lived in the Valley for a couple of years and funnily enough, never actually ate here until we moved out to the ‘burbs. They are one of hubby’s customers so we get really well looked after – but we’ve recommended a lot of friends here and they have all been suitably impressed. It’s a little Italian Restaurant opposite Ecco in the Industrial part of the city, just down from the Marriott.
They have paper tablecloths and crayons to amuse yourself while you wait for your food. (And funnily enough it's always the big kids who like the crayons more than the littlies!).
The pastas are fantastic – super generous serves with quality pastas and sauces – it’s a mix and match, you choose what pasta with which sauce. Garlic pizza breads are wonderfully crisp and topped with gooey cheese. Pizzas also share the love, super fresh toppings with crisp bases and no sogginess in sight! If you have room - try the meatballs as a starter (they are a tapas item) - they are mouthwateringly good... a secret blend of Pork, Veal and Beef mince with selected herbs and spices in a rich tomato sauce... just a shame you can't have them as a Main Course!
Contact:
Ciccio's Pasta Bar
471 Adelaide Street
Brisbane
(opposite Ecco)
They have paper tablecloths and crayons to amuse yourself while you wait for your food. (And funnily enough it's always the big kids who like the crayons more than the littlies!).
The pastas are fantastic – super generous serves with quality pastas and sauces – it’s a mix and match, you choose what pasta with which sauce. Garlic pizza breads are wonderfully crisp and topped with gooey cheese. Pizzas also share the love, super fresh toppings with crisp bases and no sogginess in sight! If you have room - try the meatballs as a starter (they are a tapas item) - they are mouthwateringly good... a secret blend of Pork, Veal and Beef mince with selected herbs and spices in a rich tomato sauce... just a shame you can't have them as a Main Course!
I'm a firm beleiver in staying true to the menu - if you go to an Italian Restaurant you should order something Italian, not a peice of steak or similar. But obviously not everyone agrees with me - and Ciccio's caters to this crowd as well having a selection of salads, Chickens and Steaks.
The prices are very pocket friendly - especially considering their city locations - they are a little bit of the way - but definately worth the walk.
Although not something they brag about - one of the co-owners used to be a brilliant barman - so if you ask, prepare to be dazzled by some amazing cocktails. They have a pretty special wine list and although I haven't been yet - I've heard their new wine bar that they've opened downstairs is pretty exciting... must be time for our next visit!
Verdict: Great night out for cheap but great quality Italian food. It’s casual enough that you're allowed to draw on the tables, but the food is good enough to take a date there! They also do takeaway for all the savvy locals and seem to be a favourite amongst late finishing Hospitality staff.
Contact:
Ciccio's Pasta Bar
471 Adelaide Street
Brisbane
(opposite Ecco)
Luv a coffee - but beware the Pensioners
This little coffee shop is tucked away in the same complex that Hubby works at – and to see it, it doesn’t look like anything special but the coffee is amazing. As a treat – I love a Skinny Mocha with Marshmallows and you’d be surprised how many places can’t make it… it’s either too milky, too chocolatey, the marshmallows don’t melt or you can’t taste the coffee at all. Imagine my shock when I find this out of the way little place that makes it perfectly. I haven’t eaten here yet – but if the coffee is anything to go on, I’m sure its fantastic.
On a side note, this area and this complex in particular seem to be a favourite with the oldies - and there seems to be some kind of unwritten rule that "Age has right of way". I have lost count of the number of times that hubby and I have lined up to order coffee here only to have some sweet old lady push in front and smile innocently at us... Weird, but funny and obviously - some of them are running out of time - who cares if they get their coffee first? :)
Verdict: Awesome coffee and worth the detour if you’re in the area.
My Recommendations: Skinny Mocha with Marshmallows. Thick, rich and creamy while still getting the necessary caffeine hit.
Contact:
Luv a Coffee
Coles Complex
767 Stafford Road
Everton Park
On a side note, this area and this complex in particular seem to be a favourite with the oldies - and there seems to be some kind of unwritten rule that "Age has right of way". I have lost count of the number of times that hubby and I have lined up to order coffee here only to have some sweet old lady push in front and smile innocently at us... Weird, but funny and obviously - some of them are running out of time - who cares if they get their coffee first? :)
Verdict: Awesome coffee and worth the detour if you’re in the area.
My Recommendations: Skinny Mocha with Marshmallows. Thick, rich and creamy while still getting the necessary caffeine hit.
Contact:
Luv a Coffee
Coles Complex
767 Stafford Road
Everton Park
Thai Mountain - Conquering Bad Taste in the 'Burbs
So I just had a big whinge about how crap the gourmet offerings are here out in the Western Suburbs? Well, I’m not going to take it back just because one great Thai Restaurant and one decent Pizza joint don’t make everything okay, but it’s a start.
I’ll admit that I’ve never been to Asia – I don’t like the heat, and I’m 6 feet tall – I really prefer anonymity over standing out like a sore thumb – but I have eaten at enough “China Towns”, “Little Vietnams” and “Little Tokyos” to have an idea of what semi-authentic Asian offerings should taste like.
Most of the Thai takeaways I have had in Australia have been pretty dismal, a poor replica of what the dishes should actually taste like and I’m not 100% sure if this is because they have tailored it to the Australian taste buds or if the people who are cooking it aren’t actually Chefs?
Anyway – Thai Mountain in Jindalee is a wonderful and unexpected oasis of flavour… the curries are actually definitively different, you can taste the homemade sauces full of intricate flavourings and I love that they use ingredients not readily available in supermarkets or frozen. (Bamboo shoots, baby eggplant, baby zucchini etc).
It is expensive, a dinner for the 2 of us is usually at least $50 but it is well worth it and what we call “Posh Takeaway” – this isn’t where you go for a drunken takeaway – it’s much too good for that. This is more romantic takeaway offerings where you splash out on a decent bottle of wine or at least light a candle. (You have to make an effort every now and then).
Verdict: Definatley the best Thai in the Western Suburbs – and easily the best I’ve had in Brisbane. Pricey – but worth it.
My Reccommendations: Green Curry Prawns, Yellow Curry Chicken and Beef Rendang. Spring rolls are a must – not because they are any better than anywhere else, but what is Thai Takeaway without spring rolls? Pad thai is exxxxxcellent - but I feel guilty ordering it after "Today Tonight" voted it the most unhealthy takeaway item possible... (Damn you Tracey Grimshaw!!)
Contact:
Thai Mountain
Shop 8 / 21 Goggs Rd
Jindalee
I’ll admit that I’ve never been to Asia – I don’t like the heat, and I’m 6 feet tall – I really prefer anonymity over standing out like a sore thumb – but I have eaten at enough “China Towns”, “Little Vietnams” and “Little Tokyos” to have an idea of what semi-authentic Asian offerings should taste like.
Most of the Thai takeaways I have had in Australia have been pretty dismal, a poor replica of what the dishes should actually taste like and I’m not 100% sure if this is because they have tailored it to the Australian taste buds or if the people who are cooking it aren’t actually Chefs?
Anyway – Thai Mountain in Jindalee is a wonderful and unexpected oasis of flavour… the curries are actually definitively different, you can taste the homemade sauces full of intricate flavourings and I love that they use ingredients not readily available in supermarkets or frozen. (Bamboo shoots, baby eggplant, baby zucchini etc).
It is expensive, a dinner for the 2 of us is usually at least $50 but it is well worth it and what we call “Posh Takeaway” – this isn’t where you go for a drunken takeaway – it’s much too good for that. This is more romantic takeaway offerings where you splash out on a decent bottle of wine or at least light a candle. (You have to make an effort every now and then).
Verdict: Definatley the best Thai in the Western Suburbs – and easily the best I’ve had in Brisbane. Pricey – but worth it.
My Reccommendations: Green Curry Prawns, Yellow Curry Chicken and Beef Rendang. Spring rolls are a must – not because they are any better than anywhere else, but what is Thai Takeaway without spring rolls? Pad thai is exxxxxcellent - but I feel guilty ordering it after "Today Tonight" voted it the most unhealthy takeaway item possible... (Damn you Tracey Grimshaw!!)
Contact:
Thai Mountain
Shop 8 / 21 Goggs Rd
Jindalee
Hell Pizza - Heaven Sent!
So we have a mortgage and basically life is crap now – we are constantly broke and a real splurge for us (without a month of saving up) is pizza night. Did I also mention that we have moved to the Western Suburbs… we have the BIG 4 – KFC, McDonalds, Pizza Hut, Hungry Jacks – but nothing nice. No little independent “Mom & Pop” Restaurants, Pizza places or decent Asian food. UNTIL Hell Pizza blasted into Boganville in it’s big V8 hearse and showed these guys the way pizza was meant to taste. And it is incredible.
The bases are never soggy and they only have one kind – a mid range between Deep Pan and Thin & Crispy that holds the toppings well. The toppings are all “real” – no tinned or weird processed stuff here, and they actually taste like the menu says!
Hubby is a big fan of “Lust” which is the Meatlovers Special; while I prefer the “Nemesis” the Supreme version complete with Kalamata Olives and Fetta. They also do Vegan pizzas and Gluten Free Bases which is perfect for when our friends the Hippies come over. (Their favourite is the "Sinister" - Gluten free base with refried beans, avocado, salsa, tomato and jalapeno's) They are a taste sensation and we are so glad they moved to our suburb!
Verdict: If you love pizza that has a crispy, non-soggy base, real ingredients that haven’t come from Planet Plastic and want it delivered in a V8 Hearse? Hell Pizza is for you my friend!
My Recommendations: The Garlic bread puts every other pizza joint to shame, it is a real baguette with real butter and real garlic – who knew that would work so much better? The Pizzas are all fantastic – and I’ve tried most of them. The pastas are okay but nothing to write home about, and if I wanted a salad – I’d make it myself. They also have Dessert pizza but I keep forgetting to order one to try... will have to put it on my list of things to do!
The bases are never soggy and they only have one kind – a mid range between Deep Pan and Thin & Crispy that holds the toppings well. The toppings are all “real” – no tinned or weird processed stuff here, and they actually taste like the menu says!
Hubby is a big fan of “Lust” which is the Meatlovers Special; while I prefer the “Nemesis” the Supreme version complete with Kalamata Olives and Fetta. They also do Vegan pizzas and Gluten Free Bases which is perfect for when our friends the Hippies come over. (Their favourite is the "Sinister" - Gluten free base with refried beans, avocado, salsa, tomato and jalapeno's) They are a taste sensation and we are so glad they moved to our suburb!
Verdict: If you love pizza that has a crispy, non-soggy base, real ingredients that haven’t come from Planet Plastic and want it delivered in a V8 Hearse? Hell Pizza is for you my friend!
My Recommendations: The Garlic bread puts every other pizza joint to shame, it is a real baguette with real butter and real garlic – who knew that would work so much better? The Pizzas are all fantastic – and I’ve tried most of them. The pastas are okay but nothing to write home about, and if I wanted a salad – I’d make it myself. They also have Dessert pizza but I keep forgetting to order one to try... will have to put it on my list of things to do!
Contact: Hell Pizza or 13HELL
Kingsleys Steak and Crabhouse - It's not you... Its me.
Having worked in Hospitality since I was 15 (my first job was plating up meals for Qantas) I’ve seen many a night when everything goes wrong. It’s as if the moon tripped on it’s way into the sky and knocked everything out of kilter. The booking sheet goes missing, the wine fridge decides to spontaneously defrost, the water tastes funny and no-one knows where the steak knives are… been there, done that, got the emotional scars to prove it. So that being said – sometimes, if I go to a Restaurant and it’s not great, but I’ve heard good things and I can see it’s got potential – I tend to go back. Like a boyfriend who stuffed up, but should know better – I give them a second chance. Well, I gave Kingsleys Steak and Crabhouse at Brisbane a second chance, in fact – considering I wasn’t paying – I even gave them a third chance. And I walked away disappointed and hungry each time. So what went wrong? Who knows!?!?
Attempt #1
My friend Dave was visiting from England had read a review for Kingsleys on the way over and insisted on shouting me dinner – sure! The pound was triple the dollar at that stage and I was happy to be the recipient of his generosity. Should I mention that Dave and I worked in a fancy-schmancy Wine Bar opposite Buckingham Palace and have similar tastes in food?
Anyway, we ordered our starters – softshell crab for me and oysters for Dave. The crab (Salt & Pepper softshell crab with chilli jam) was good – but starting to grow back it’s shell which caused some unladylike swilling trying to remove the prickly bits from my mouth… Dave said his oysters (Natural of course!) were good and obviously freshly schucked judging from the tiny bits of shell he had lodged in his teeth… so no prize winners there. We each ordered a steak – which Kingsley’s sell by the Cattle Truck load – and they were fine. To be honest, mine was a little dry and over rested, it was barely warm by the time I got it. Dave’s was unremarkable. The high point of the meal was actually one of the sides – wok tossed green beans with red onion and toasted almonds. WOW. Absolutely loved it – if I was psychic and knew how boring my steak was going to be, I would have just ordered 3 or 4 sides of beans! Needless to say we skipped dessert in lieu of a Maccas sundae…
Attempt #2
It was our friend Matt’s birthday, and in typical Chef style – he wanted to go out to dinner to check out the competition. With a group of 8, we weren’t expecting an early night but certainly didn’t expect to wait 2 hours for our main courses to arrive… but I get ahead of myself. Out of the 8 of us, there were 2 difficult ones who didn’t want to order starters and made a bit of a production about not wanting to sit there without a meal while everyone else ate… so to pacify and move on, we decided on 2 platters – what the waiter told us was a selection of the entrees available. And I guess it was. Except it was 2 platters of all the deep fried delights Kingsleys had to offer. No fresh prawns, crabs or oysters – which I had already spied on the menu – no, we got deep fried calamari, prawns, oysters and salt & pepper crab. Sure it was nice – but there is a limit to how much fried food you can eat.
The first bottle of wine and drinks we ordered took 45mins to get to us – I know this for a fact because someone timed it *rolls eyes*. We asked for water 3 times before I spied the elusive ice bucket around the corner and just went and got a couple (and poured it myself!) out of frustration.
Then we get to the mains – and you know that you’re in trouble as a customer when none of the staff will make eye contact with you. It’s almost like the childrens game of “if I close my eyes, they can’t see me”. So 2 hours later we got our steaks – after asking repeatedly any waiter brave (unfortunate?) enough to stumble into our path – only to find that they were all wrong. Or given to the wrong people? – I guess we’ll never know now … but the gist of the story is: Out of the 8 of us, 5 got steaks that were either the wrong cut or cooked to the wrong degree. The other 3 were left with steaks on the tables wondering if they should eat, or be polite and wait, or better yet – wait for the sides to arrive, and let it go cold anyway?
After the 2nd lot of (correct) steaks came out – we then waited another 20 mins for the sides to come out. Note to reader: Kingsleys steaks come out on a plate. No garnish. No sauce. No nothing. So if you are stuck in a similar predicament – you can choose to have steak, and then have sides later as a sort of savoury dessert? Or you can wait for the sides and have a uber-modern style main course – cold steak, hot sides… Again, we skipped dessert – mainly because we waited 45 mins for coffee and just wanted to go home. It had been a looooooong night by this point.
Attempt #3
I was asked to take a client out of lunch and they had requested Kingsley’s – so off I trudged wondering if it would be 3rd time lucky… sadly no. It wasn’t that it was horrible – it was just average – and if I’m going to pay $40+ for a steak on a big white plate – I want more than average. The crab is good (again – no letters home to Mum to brag) but expensive and the steaks are yet to impress me. In my opinion you can get better seafood at Jellyfish, and better steaks at Cha Cha Char … and with the same great River views.
Verdict: I’d go back if I wasn’t paying, but if they can’t get it right after 3 visits something is wrong… maybe it’s me? There’s plenty of high praise reviews out there… maybe they just don’t like me…
My Reccommendations: Give them a miss? No, plenty of people seem to like these guys so I'm obviously missing something. By all means - give them a go. But remember to order sides. Unless you're on one of those protein only diets... I highly reccommend the Beans! In fact - I'm grateful to Kingsleys for the beans because they have become one of my BBQ and Dinner Party staples!
Contact: Kingsleys
Attempt #1
My friend Dave was visiting from England had read a review for Kingsleys on the way over and insisted on shouting me dinner – sure! The pound was triple the dollar at that stage and I was happy to be the recipient of his generosity. Should I mention that Dave and I worked in a fancy-schmancy Wine Bar opposite Buckingham Palace and have similar tastes in food?
Anyway, we ordered our starters – softshell crab for me and oysters for Dave. The crab (Salt & Pepper softshell crab with chilli jam) was good – but starting to grow back it’s shell which caused some unladylike swilling trying to remove the prickly bits from my mouth… Dave said his oysters (Natural of course!) were good and obviously freshly schucked judging from the tiny bits of shell he had lodged in his teeth… so no prize winners there. We each ordered a steak – which Kingsley’s sell by the Cattle Truck load – and they were fine. To be honest, mine was a little dry and over rested, it was barely warm by the time I got it. Dave’s was unremarkable. The high point of the meal was actually one of the sides – wok tossed green beans with red onion and toasted almonds. WOW. Absolutely loved it – if I was psychic and knew how boring my steak was going to be, I would have just ordered 3 or 4 sides of beans! Needless to say we skipped dessert in lieu of a Maccas sundae…
Attempt #2
It was our friend Matt’s birthday, and in typical Chef style – he wanted to go out to dinner to check out the competition. With a group of 8, we weren’t expecting an early night but certainly didn’t expect to wait 2 hours for our main courses to arrive… but I get ahead of myself. Out of the 8 of us, there were 2 difficult ones who didn’t want to order starters and made a bit of a production about not wanting to sit there without a meal while everyone else ate… so to pacify and move on, we decided on 2 platters – what the waiter told us was a selection of the entrees available. And I guess it was. Except it was 2 platters of all the deep fried delights Kingsleys had to offer. No fresh prawns, crabs or oysters – which I had already spied on the menu – no, we got deep fried calamari, prawns, oysters and salt & pepper crab. Sure it was nice – but there is a limit to how much fried food you can eat.
The first bottle of wine and drinks we ordered took 45mins to get to us – I know this for a fact because someone timed it *rolls eyes*. We asked for water 3 times before I spied the elusive ice bucket around the corner and just went and got a couple (and poured it myself!) out of frustration.
Then we get to the mains – and you know that you’re in trouble as a customer when none of the staff will make eye contact with you. It’s almost like the childrens game of “if I close my eyes, they can’t see me”. So 2 hours later we got our steaks – after asking repeatedly any waiter brave (unfortunate?) enough to stumble into our path – only to find that they were all wrong. Or given to the wrong people? – I guess we’ll never know now … but the gist of the story is: Out of the 8 of us, 5 got steaks that were either the wrong cut or cooked to the wrong degree. The other 3 were left with steaks on the tables wondering if they should eat, or be polite and wait, or better yet – wait for the sides to arrive, and let it go cold anyway?
After the 2nd lot of (correct) steaks came out – we then waited another 20 mins for the sides to come out. Note to reader: Kingsleys steaks come out on a plate. No garnish. No sauce. No nothing. So if you are stuck in a similar predicament – you can choose to have steak, and then have sides later as a sort of savoury dessert? Or you can wait for the sides and have a uber-modern style main course – cold steak, hot sides… Again, we skipped dessert – mainly because we waited 45 mins for coffee and just wanted to go home. It had been a looooooong night by this point.
Attempt #3
I was asked to take a client out of lunch and they had requested Kingsley’s – so off I trudged wondering if it would be 3rd time lucky… sadly no. It wasn’t that it was horrible – it was just average – and if I’m going to pay $40+ for a steak on a big white plate – I want more than average. The crab is good (again – no letters home to Mum to brag) but expensive and the steaks are yet to impress me. In my opinion you can get better seafood at Jellyfish, and better steaks at Cha Cha Char … and with the same great River views.
Verdict: I’d go back if I wasn’t paying, but if they can’t get it right after 3 visits something is wrong… maybe it’s me? There’s plenty of high praise reviews out there… maybe they just don’t like me…
My Reccommendations: Give them a miss? No, plenty of people seem to like these guys so I'm obviously missing something. By all means - give them a go. But remember to order sides. Unless you're on one of those protein only diets... I highly reccommend the Beans! In fact - I'm grateful to Kingsleys for the beans because they have become one of my BBQ and Dinner Party staples!
Contact: Kingsleys
Wagamama... Waga-Love.
Oh Waggie's how I love you! – it’s just like going to a friends house! Warm, Fun and Comfortable – I’ve eaten at them all – they have outlets in Chermside, Emporium Fortitude Valley and Wintergarden - by my favourite is by far the Emporium Centre chapter.
You would think they would all be the same – being a Franchise – but no, the Valley Wagagmama seems to be slightly more fun, more irreverent and, in true Valley style - nice and edgy. The staff are more willing to have a joke with you, sit down and point out their favourites and smile cheekily while your face turns beet red from the super spicy Chilli Ramen. (The also didn't kick us out the night my sloshed Mother-in-law kept pinching our waiters bum - they get massive points for that - although we did leave a tip!)
There’s just something about this place that keeps us going back (and not just the Frequent Noodler Points) – we have all our more casual occasions here – meet the new girlfriend, pre-Xmas dinner, sneaking out from work lunch, planning revenge on the ex… it caters for all of them. I love the fact that the tables are communal – that you’re forced to sit next to strangers and strike up a conversation to get them to pass the soy sauce, I love that the food comes out in it’s own special time encouraging everyone to steal from the person (un)lucky enough to get their meal first and to give food envy enough time to fully set hold.
I love that it’s a Japanese restaurant but there’s not a nori roll to be seen – I prefer Sushi Station for that, thank you very much! And I love that the food is always divine, in the same belly rubbing way that dinner at your Nana’s is. It's good, new-fashioned comfortfood in a massive Ramen bowl. It’s always good, always fast and always cheap. What more could you want for casual night out with your mates?
Verdict: It’s everything a meal with friends should be – tasty, fun and irreverent – and fast enough that you can still do something afterwards. I've been here so many times I have honestly lost count... and I'm yet to have a bad meal here. That says a lot in my book!
My recommendations: The Apple, Mint and Lime Juice; Chicken Katsu Curry (the Vegie version is just as good!); Chicken Ramen; Gyoza and Chilli Squid.
Contact: Wagamama
You would think they would all be the same – being a Franchise – but no, the Valley Wagagmama seems to be slightly more fun, more irreverent and, in true Valley style - nice and edgy. The staff are more willing to have a joke with you, sit down and point out their favourites and smile cheekily while your face turns beet red from the super spicy Chilli Ramen. (The also didn't kick us out the night my sloshed Mother-in-law kept pinching our waiters bum - they get massive points for that - although we did leave a tip!)
There’s just something about this place that keeps us going back (and not just the Frequent Noodler Points) – we have all our more casual occasions here – meet the new girlfriend, pre-Xmas dinner, sneaking out from work lunch, planning revenge on the ex… it caters for all of them. I love the fact that the tables are communal – that you’re forced to sit next to strangers and strike up a conversation to get them to pass the soy sauce, I love that the food comes out in it’s own special time encouraging everyone to steal from the person (un)lucky enough to get their meal first and to give food envy enough time to fully set hold.
I love that it’s a Japanese restaurant but there’s not a nori roll to be seen – I prefer Sushi Station for that, thank you very much! And I love that the food is always divine, in the same belly rubbing way that dinner at your Nana’s is. It's good, new-fashioned comfortfood in a massive Ramen bowl. It’s always good, always fast and always cheap. What more could you want for casual night out with your mates?
Verdict: It’s everything a meal with friends should be – tasty, fun and irreverent – and fast enough that you can still do something afterwards. I've been here so many times I have honestly lost count... and I'm yet to have a bad meal here. That says a lot in my book!
My recommendations: The Apple, Mint and Lime Juice; Chicken Katsu Curry (the Vegie version is just as good!); Chicken Ramen; Gyoza and Chilli Squid.
Contact: Wagamama
Freestyle Tout - the gateway to bigger pants
When I was a kid, my Dad always used to say “There’s a separate stomach for dessert – have you ever noticed that no matter how full you are, you always have room for dessert? That’s because you have two stomachs.” He was my Dad and I always grinned, wide eyed at him when he would tell me this and if I’m being honest, I was well into my teens before I questioned his grasp on biology.
But there’s something to be said for Freestyle Tout – we always go there after dinner at Wagamamas which is just across the carpark in Emporium. And let me tell you, we have rarely left Waggie’s without huffing and puffing about how full we are, rubbing our belly’s like we’ve traded with Buddha for the night… and yet we always have room for Freestyle.
To put it bluntly – the desserts here are phenomenal, in size, flavour, imagination and height. They tick every box possible.
My favourite is without a doubt the chocolate Sundae, loads of ice cream, cream, chocolate sauce and marshallows all served in a dish bigger than my vases at home (I kid you not). It is every child's dream come true.
In winter, when it’s just too teethchatteringly cold to eat ice cream – I can’t go past the Sticky Date Pudding, super moist pudding in a pool of butterscotch sauce, ice cream and cream – you can feel the cavities setting up camp with each mouthful, but it’s so worth it, and funnily enough, it’s not sickly sweet like you would imagine. (My next visit I'm determined to bypass the favourites and try out the White chocolate and raspberry brioche dumplings... *insert drool here*)
Hubby – who isn’t really a sweet-tooth at all – is usually the one steering me towards Freestyle, because he claims he has Pavlov’s Dog syndrome as soon as he sees the sign across the carpark! His favourite? The Satisfaction dessert cocktail – a sinfully delicious and headspinning concoction of Bailey’s, Kaluha, Tia Maria, Franjelico, ice cream and cream, drizzled with honey and layered with a chocolate swizzle stick. For the pure heaven of dessert here, I’m happy to drive home (because God knows how much booze is in that cocktail!)… although the seat does need to go back a few notches to allow for the Buddha belly!
Verdict: Wear your Frank Barone (Everybody loves Raymond) pants and enjoy every monuthful. They do have a "regular" menu as well, but it's just for the minority - you don't come here to eat "regular" food - it's the sugar highway and you're either with us or against us.
My recommendations: Chocolate Sundae, Crème Brulee, Sticky Date Pudding, Dessert cocktail.
Details: Freestyle Tout
But there’s something to be said for Freestyle Tout – we always go there after dinner at Wagamamas which is just across the carpark in Emporium. And let me tell you, we have rarely left Waggie’s without huffing and puffing about how full we are, rubbing our belly’s like we’ve traded with Buddha for the night… and yet we always have room for Freestyle.
To put it bluntly – the desserts here are phenomenal, in size, flavour, imagination and height. They tick every box possible.
My favourite is without a doubt the chocolate Sundae, loads of ice cream, cream, chocolate sauce and marshallows all served in a dish bigger than my vases at home (I kid you not). It is every child's dream come true.
In winter, when it’s just too teethchatteringly cold to eat ice cream – I can’t go past the Sticky Date Pudding, super moist pudding in a pool of butterscotch sauce, ice cream and cream – you can feel the cavities setting up camp with each mouthful, but it’s so worth it, and funnily enough, it’s not sickly sweet like you would imagine. (My next visit I'm determined to bypass the favourites and try out the White chocolate and raspberry brioche dumplings... *insert drool here*)
Hubby – who isn’t really a sweet-tooth at all – is usually the one steering me towards Freestyle, because he claims he has Pavlov’s Dog syndrome as soon as he sees the sign across the carpark! His favourite? The Satisfaction dessert cocktail – a sinfully delicious and headspinning concoction of Bailey’s, Kaluha, Tia Maria, Franjelico, ice cream and cream, drizzled with honey and layered with a chocolate swizzle stick. For the pure heaven of dessert here, I’m happy to drive home (because God knows how much booze is in that cocktail!)… although the seat does need to go back a few notches to allow for the Buddha belly!
Verdict: Wear your Frank Barone (Everybody loves Raymond) pants and enjoy every monuthful. They do have a "regular" menu as well, but it's just for the minority - you don't come here to eat "regular" food - it's the sugar highway and you're either with us or against us.
My recommendations: Chocolate Sundae, Crème Brulee, Sticky Date Pudding, Dessert cocktail.
Details: Freestyle Tout
The night Ecco stole my heart...
We first went to Ecco almost a year ago now for an occasion that was special at the time (obviously) but has since become known as “the night we went to Ecco”.
It was without a doubt, the most perfect night out at a Restaurant either of us had ever experienced. Being a hospitality snob, I can be picky (internally) – but don’t get me wrong, I’m not a whinger or a scene-maker. I just quietly note all the things that they could have done differently to make it a better experience. But Ecco hit every nail on the head, even the nails I didn’t know were there until BAM!, down it went.
The whole evening was seamless from a service point of view – the door was opened for us, they knew who we were, water was poured as soon as we were seated and our drinks materialised within minutes of us ordering them. Our flamboyantly gay waiter was charming and finely tread the line between personable and professional while genuinely interacting with us throughout our meals.
My husband still talks about the soup. He’s a picky bugger sometimes and wasn’t in the mood for quail, scallops or mushrooms so he defaulted to the Cauliflower and Caramelised Garlic Soup which sounded “noice” but I couldn’t go past the Portabello Mushrooms on Olive Toast which I had heard beforehand, was one of the Restaurant’s signature dishes. When the meals arrived, I was too busy devouring my outstanding starter – it was everything it should have been. Delicious earthy mushrooms atop chargrilled olive sourdough, super fresh and peppery rocket dressed with the most divine lemon infused olive oil – I was in heaven and savouring every mouthful.
Oblivious in my happiness, I managed to draw breath between bites to glance over at hubby, protectively guarding my plate like a prison inmate only to see him gripping his deep soup bowl like a man drowning and licking his lips with his eyes closed.
I swear to God, the man was purring!
The soup (in a very generous quantity) was like a velvet reduction of the most fabulous, intense and perfectly seasoned cauliflower gratin I have ever had. Hubby admitted to me later, as he neared the last spoonful, that he was considering how he could create a scene big enough that he could lick his bowl clean without being treated like a circus freak!
So the starters were obviously winners, Ecco was moving to the top of our favourite Restaurant list and then our Mains came out. Again, hubby didn’t fancy anything on the menu but was completely bowled over by the Chef’s Special – Grade 9 Wagyu Rump, Slow Roasted with Truffle Mash and Broccollini. It sounded nice, but I’m married to a Butcher – I can have steak whenever I want. I went for the Duck, and neither of our choices disappointed.
My duck was fantastic with a Capital F. Creamy and Crispy in all the right places, it would have been finger-lick’in good if it wasn’t so tender it fell apart just looking at my knife. There was no need for fingers.
It was the best version of Duck I have ever had. But hubby’s steak – well that broke all the rules. It was single handedly the most rich, intensely flavoured piece of meat I had ever tasted and it was perfectly balanced by the mashed potatoes. He struggled to finish it, even after sharing several bites with me, and said he wanted to cry when he saw the waiter carrying it to the kitchen unfinished.
I have since bought the Ecco cookbook in an effort to recreate some of these dishes, but after a couple of failures, I have resigned myself to simply picking up the bill the next time we go. Ecco is a jewel among Brisbane, and if I can give you some advice: Book early, wear elasticised pants and be prepared to be wowed.
Verdict: Amazing, unpretentious, fabulous quality food worthy of a celebration or any time you have a spare $200 (per couple) lying around.
My recommendations: Anything on the Chef’s Special Board, Portobello Mushrooms on Olive Toast.
Details: Ecco
It was without a doubt, the most perfect night out at a Restaurant either of us had ever experienced. Being a hospitality snob, I can be picky (internally) – but don’t get me wrong, I’m not a whinger or a scene-maker. I just quietly note all the things that they could have done differently to make it a better experience. But Ecco hit every nail on the head, even the nails I didn’t know were there until BAM!, down it went.
The whole evening was seamless from a service point of view – the door was opened for us, they knew who we were, water was poured as soon as we were seated and our drinks materialised within minutes of us ordering them. Our flamboyantly gay waiter was charming and finely tread the line between personable and professional while genuinely interacting with us throughout our meals.
My husband still talks about the soup. He’s a picky bugger sometimes and wasn’t in the mood for quail, scallops or mushrooms so he defaulted to the Cauliflower and Caramelised Garlic Soup which sounded “noice” but I couldn’t go past the Portabello Mushrooms on Olive Toast which I had heard beforehand, was one of the Restaurant’s signature dishes. When the meals arrived, I was too busy devouring my outstanding starter – it was everything it should have been. Delicious earthy mushrooms atop chargrilled olive sourdough, super fresh and peppery rocket dressed with the most divine lemon infused olive oil – I was in heaven and savouring every mouthful.
Oblivious in my happiness, I managed to draw breath between bites to glance over at hubby, protectively guarding my plate like a prison inmate only to see him gripping his deep soup bowl like a man drowning and licking his lips with his eyes closed.
I swear to God, the man was purring!
The soup (in a very generous quantity) was like a velvet reduction of the most fabulous, intense and perfectly seasoned cauliflower gratin I have ever had. Hubby admitted to me later, as he neared the last spoonful, that he was considering how he could create a scene big enough that he could lick his bowl clean without being treated like a circus freak!
So the starters were obviously winners, Ecco was moving to the top of our favourite Restaurant list and then our Mains came out. Again, hubby didn’t fancy anything on the menu but was completely bowled over by the Chef’s Special – Grade 9 Wagyu Rump, Slow Roasted with Truffle Mash and Broccollini. It sounded nice, but I’m married to a Butcher – I can have steak whenever I want. I went for the Duck, and neither of our choices disappointed.
My duck was fantastic with a Capital F. Creamy and Crispy in all the right places, it would have been finger-lick’in good if it wasn’t so tender it fell apart just looking at my knife. There was no need for fingers.
It was the best version of Duck I have ever had. But hubby’s steak – well that broke all the rules. It was single handedly the most rich, intensely flavoured piece of meat I had ever tasted and it was perfectly balanced by the mashed potatoes. He struggled to finish it, even after sharing several bites with me, and said he wanted to cry when he saw the waiter carrying it to the kitchen unfinished.
I have since bought the Ecco cookbook in an effort to recreate some of these dishes, but after a couple of failures, I have resigned myself to simply picking up the bill the next time we go. Ecco is a jewel among Brisbane, and if I can give you some advice: Book early, wear elasticised pants and be prepared to be wowed.
Verdict: Amazing, unpretentious, fabulous quality food worthy of a celebration or any time you have a spare $200 (per couple) lying around.
My recommendations: Anything on the Chef’s Special Board, Portobello Mushrooms on Olive Toast.
Details: Ecco
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