Get the dish on a element-inspired culinary showcase, build-your-own margarita boards and Frothtoberfest
A lot is happening on the Gold Coast (and surrounds) these days, it’s almost too much to keep up with. The Dish is a rapid-fire rundown of the coast’s food news – quick taster-sized tidbits to keep you in the know and, perhaps, tickle your taste buds. This week we’ve got word of a beer-filled festival, a four-day culinary showcase and a new food truck from a much-loved former restauranteur.
Don your dirndls and lederhosen for Frothtoberfest at Burleigh Brewing
October – or should we say Oktober – means one thing, Oktoberfest! While we may not be among the millions who pilgrimage to Munich every year, Burleigh Brewing is raising a stein for the entire month in celebration, kicking things off with one heck of a party on Saturday October 5. Frothtoberfest, aka Burleigh Brewing’s epic twist on Oktoberfest, will be turning the iconic taphouse into the Gold Coast’s most authentic German beer hall for a day of unbeatable brews, tunes and good times. Your $25 ticket includes a limited-edition Frothtoberfest half-litre glass stein filled with one of eight exclusive German beers on tap. This is more than just an event; it’s a full-blown celebration of German culture and craftsmanship. Think German music, games, mouth-watering food, and, of course, an endless flow of glorious beer! Bring your friends, family and a hearty appetite for fun. Grab your tickets here. Oh and before you ask, costumes are strongly encouraged!
Celebrate the elements of air, fire, water and earth with four feasts in four days
The much-loved Culinary Stars showcase is returning to Citrique Restaurant from October 7 to 10. Led by executive chef Paul Smart, this time around, you are invited to experience a fully immersive gastronomic journey inspired by the elements of air, fire, water and earth and culminating in a sensational ‘Gold Stars’ menu. Among the talented line-up is Mathew Bentley (executive sous chef at W Sydney), Stephen Cocks (executive sous chef at The Ritz-Carlton Perth), Hajime Horiguchi (head chef from W Melbourne), Pawel Klodowski (chef de cuisine W Brisbane) and Joon Ko (executive chef JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa). Each night will be an in-depth culinary journey through one of the elements developed by chefs from Marriott Internationals’ best restaurants around Australia and Asia and using famous produce from their regions. Diners will have a chance to experience different chefs’ interpretations of the element – as well as a chance to interact with chefs as they present their signature dishes. “The Gold Coast hasn’t seen a culinary event of this scale before. When we first set out to create Culinary Stars our mission was to establish an annual event that would bring the best talent in the industry together to share new ideas and foster creativity, and to bring that to the foodies of the Gold Coast who are craving new ways to engage with what’s new in the culinary space,” said Paul. To book a seat at one of the events, jump over here.
Say hola to the new food truck at El Ranchero with a margarita share platter
There aren’t too many things in life that margs don’t make infinitely more enjoyable. With that in mind, allow us to introduce you to the brand-new margarita board, a collab between Mo’s Desert Clubhouse’s bar El Ranchero and the new onsite food truck Spanish Girl Food Co. The build-your-own margarita starter kit includes a side of corn chips, salsa and guacamole and five standard margaritas per board, in your choice of classic, coconut or spicy. The new seasonal food truck, Spanish Girl Food Co, is the handiwork of Andrea, who previously owned Holy Jala in Coolangatta. For the next three months, you’ll be able to nosh on an authentically Spanish and Mexican-inspired menu with all your favourites including corn tortilla tacos, $3 jalapeno poppers and taquitos.
Feast under the stars at this magical long table event
On Sunday October 8, the tree-lined Oracle Boulevard in Broadbeach will act as a stunning backdrop for the Twilight Table – an open-air culinary soiree featuring an elegantly decorated long table that will weave throughout the glittering precinct, taking diners on a sumptuous multi-course food and wine journey. The Twilight Table will see chefs from the precinct’s leading restaurants come together to showcase the best local produce, delivering a delicious five-course dinner under the stars. Restaurants including Mamasan Kitchen + Bar, Social Eating House + Bar, The Cuban, Mecca Bah, Orzo Restaurant, The Lucky Squire, Blowfish, Orzo Restaurant, Kost Bar & Grill are joining forces for the one-night-only event, with the chefs curating a tempting menu and premium beverage package. The unique culinary showcase gives diners a rare chance to experience boundary-pushing creations from some of the coast’s most renowned restaurants in one night, all within a truly magical open-air setting. What better way to welcome spring than with a dreamy twilight long-table feast? Get tickets here.
Experience Elements of Byron’s brand-new ‘Native Menu’
If you’ve been looking for an excuse to head south, this is it. The ever-beautiful Elements of Byron’s onsite restaurant Azure Bar & Grill has unveiled a gorgeous new ‘Native Menu’ that invites you on a culinary journey like no other. This innovative rainforest-to-table dining experience offers more than just a meal, it provides an exclusive exploration of Australia’s rich natural bounty, perfectly blending wild sophistication with the resort’s renowned commitment to sustainability and high-end experiences. It begins with an immersive foraging tour led by esteemed naturalist and Elements Grounds & Activities Manager, Alistair Oakman. During the tour, guests explore the property’s lush landscape – which spans 24 hectares of pristine landscapes – unearthing hidden treasures of native ingredients flourishing on-site, such as Davidson plum, saltbush, native thyme and warrigal greens. Post forage, you can settle in for a mouth-watering feast crafted by the venue’s award-winning executive chef Ebony Baker, who was recently named Chef of the Year at the NSW Accommodation Awards for Excellence. Available Thursday to Saturday, until November 30, 2024. If you’re keen to stay and play, can book a two-night stay in a luxurious one-bedroom Botanica Villa, paired with the ‘Native Menu’ for two for $1347. Jump over here to book.
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