The cerulean waters of sleepy surf town Cabarita are not the only reason to visit, with No. 35 taking up residence in prime position along Tweed Coast Road. The exciting newcomer is bringing the coastal Italian vibes you’ve been dreaming of to Northern New South Wales, dishing up ‘new world Italian’ that modernises much-loved traditional Italian fare. The brainchild of Sydney hospitality veterans – general manager Rachel Duffy and head chef Daniel Medcalf – brings with it an impressive pedigree – the pair met more than a decade ago through their roles at the Icebergs in Sydney, before Daniel went on to open The Dolphin as head chef, followed by a move to Bali as executive chef at The Slow. The pair were reunited last year and from this chance reunion, No. 35 was born.

Whether you’re settling in for a long lunch with the ladies, heading out for a date night or taking the kidlets for an early family dinner, No 35. is set to welcome you with open arms. The industrial-style enclave shakes up the traditional ideas of what ‘coastal’ decor should be, with the pared-back space reflecting No. 35’s menu. To start, enjoy local snapper fish finger sandwich or arancini stuffed with garden peas and smoked parmesan custard. The share-style mains include pastas like gnochetti tossed with lamb neck ragu, broccoli leaf and pecorino, or fregola served with king prawn, saffron and toasted fennel seeds. Accompanying the bites, the beverages reflect this Italian influence, including negronis and Americanos sitting pretty alongside traditional Italian wine as well as fun additions such as pet-nats and orange drops.

No. 35 is open for dinner from Thursday through to Sunday as well as lunch on weekends – so go ahead and start planning some day trips! If you love the sound of the aforementioned aperitifs, the venue is conveniently within walking distance of Halcyon House, too. Follow No. 35’s journey on Instagram here or head to the website for bookings. 

Image credit: Jess Kearney