Kiin - Adelaide CBD, SA
Nestled in the bustling heart of Adelaide CBD, Kiin offers a refreshing escape into the rich tapestry of Thai cuisine, reimagined through a modern lens. The venue's ambience is a harmonious blend of tradition and contemporary design, inviting guests into a space where warmth and sophistication meet. Chef Ben Bertei's creations are a testament to the potential of fresh produce, combined with a meticulous selection of world-class wines, to transport diners directly to the streets of Thailand with each bite.
A standout on the menu is the Prawn & Lychee Popstick, a delightful fusion of sweet and savory that perfectly encapsulates Kiin's innovative approach. The dish is a bold reinterpretation of traditional Thai flavours, presented with an artisanal flair that makes it a must-try. The Red Curry Cheeseburger and the Burrata with Green Nahm Jim further showcase the venue's commitment to pushing culinary boundaries, while the Signature Bowon Curry offers a comforting yet complex taste of Thai heritage.
Brisket Boys - Penrith, NSW
Boys serves as a temple for barbecue enthusiasts, marrying the art of low and slow cooking with the robust flavours of Texan barbecue. This American-style eatery, founded by a group of friends united by their love of good food, provides a welcoming atmosphere where the community comes together over shared plates of meticulously prepared meats. The venue's rustic charm, combined with a commitment to authenticity, makes it a standout destination for those seeking a genuine taste of American barbecue.
The option to order meat by the gram allows visitors to tailor their experience, but it's the Texas beef brisket that truly defines the Brisket Boys' culinary ethos. Smoked to perfection and boasting a melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, this dish is a testament to the skill and patience required to master the craft of barbecue. Paired with traditional sides like coleslaw and mac n' cheese, it offers a comforting, deeply satisfying meal that resonates with the soul of artisanal street fare.
Cubbyhouse Kyle Bay - Kyle Bay, NSW
Cubbyhouse is a gem that blends Mediterranean influences with local Australian produce, creating a dining experience that's both familiar and novel. The venue's design, featuring recycled timber and an abundance of greenery, reflects its approach to cuisine: sustainable, fresh and endlessly creative. The open kitchen adds a dynamic element, allowing diners to witness the passion behind each dish.
Lamb shoulder kleftiko stands out as a signature offering, a dish steeped in tradition yet presented with a modern twist. Served with pita bread, tzatziki and a rustic Greek salad, it's a hearty, flavourful journey to the Mediterranean, crafted with care and designed to be shared. This dish, like the venue itself, is a celebration of community, craftsmanship and the universal language of delicious food.
Ladybird Restaurant & Bar - Main Beach, QLD
Located on Sea World Drive in Main Beach, Ladybird Restaurant & Bar offers an exquisite waterfront dining experience that blends the best of global flavours with a scenic backdrop. The venue's luxurious setting, complete with views of private yachts and the setting sun, sets the stage for a culinary journey that spans from the Mediterranean to Southeast Asia. The menu, characterised by its elegance and diversity, features dishes that are as visually stunning as they are palate-pleasing.
The roast duck red curry is a highlight, offering a rich tapestry of flavours that includes both pulled and confit Marland duck, mushrooms, broccolini, lychee and toasted coconut. This dish exemplifies Ladybird's ability to harmonise diverse culinary traditions, creating a memorable dish that's both comforting and exotic. It's a testament to the restaurant's commitment to innovation, presented within a setting that's nothing short of breathtaking.
Morris Jones - Windsor, VIC
Morris Jones brings a Californian flair to modern Japanese cuisine, housed within a heritage building that's as stylish as the dishes it serves. The venue's eclectic decor, featuring monochromatic tiles and contemporary art, mirrors its creative menu, which draws from the best of Japanese culinary techniques while infusing them with a distinctly Californian sensibility.
The sushi bar at Morris Jones is a standout feature, presenting dishes that are as visually appealing as they are delicious. Guests are encouraged to indulge in the kingfish sashimi, enhanced by the delicate flavours of truffle ponzu, shiso and chives, offering a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, showcasing the venue's flair for combining diverse culinary techniques and flavours. This selection exemplifies the essence of Morris Jones: a celebration of innovation, tradition and the sheer joy of dining.
