7 Hidden Gems to Put on Your Culinary Radar

There are those hidden gems of restaurants that only the locals know about dotted all around the country, where good food, vibes and times are guaranteed.

Next time you’re on the lookout for a new dining destination, try one of these seven venues to satisfy cravings:

Capturing the vibe of the old west bringing a sense of rustic charm to each of its roadside locations and events, Brisbane foodies head to Deadwood Pizza to appease cravings for a slice of heaven. Pulling up at Wamuran Community Hall and Cruice Park in Woodford on alternating weekends, this mobile family, built, owned and operated food van is adorned with cattle skulls and gas lamps as hungry hombres are lured in by the tantalising aromas wafting from the wood-fired oven.

 

Order either a classic or gluten-free base and your choice of toppings such as Tropical Spice – ham, pineapple, onion, jalapeños, capers and cheese, on a BBQ base – or the Supreme with ham, olives, salami, mushroom, pepperoni, onion, capsicum and cheese.

French Mediterranean neighbourhood bistro and wine bar, Pistou on King Street in Newtown serves up good wine, good food and good times to Sydneysiders. On balmy days sit kerbside at Parisian-style tables and watch the world pass by, or head indoors to join the lively buzz of conversation in a rustic, charming vibe of potted greenery, terracotta-coloured walls and cabinets overflowing with temptations.

 

Pair a glass of red with steak tartare, queso oveja and egg yolk, or duck breast, charred leek, parsnip and veal jus; those who can’t choose can opt for the Let’s Get Pistoued Feed Me menu.

Located on vibrant Palmer Street adjacent to Ross Creek with stunning water views, find a relaxed getaway for the whole family at Bayview Bar & Bistro in South Townsville. Escape Queensland heat in the undercover alfresco area and sip a tropical cocktail with friends, or head indoors where a mosaic-tiled bar promises icy drinks, polished wood floors and a full glass frontage bring the outside in.

 

Start a memorable meal with spicy pork belly bites and crispy noodles, or tempura soft-shell crab and Asian slaw; before sharing a grilled steak taco board, or twirl your fork around pasta plates like pesto linguine with Atlantic salmon.

Located on Elizabeth Street near Central Station, Mr Wu Dumpling Bar delivers authentic Asian fare and the best dumplings in Sydney, all made with love. Combining an elegant, modern ambience with traditional Chinese cuisine, step into a rustic wooden interior design with concrete fixtures and metal aesthetics creating a feeling of vibrancy and enthusiasm echoed by happy diners.

 

King prawn dumplings entice to start or perhaps chicken and prawn springs rolls and sweet chilli sauce hit the mark; before larger plates such as twice-cooked pork in Szechuan sauce with sides of steamed rice and steamed choy sum in oyster sauce.

Redbird restaurant on Redfern Street in Sydney is a place to feast, linger, wind down and gather over a modern Chinese menu crafted from quality ingredients. Owned and operated by Redfern locals, Hamish Ingham and Rebecca Lines, expect a moody vibe of seductive lighting, well-worn brick and banquette seating; or dine alfresco on balmy days and watch the world pass by.

 

Settle in with a Redbird cocktail and snack on appetisers like kingfish sashimi, chilli snow, horseradish and shiso, or beef tartare, white radish, shiso and Yukari; moving onto red braised lamb shoulder and Chinese tabouli.

Delve into authentic Korean cuisine in picturesque Leura Village at Jiggle Korean BBQ on Leura Mall. This Blue Mountains dining destination boasts stunning alfresco dining under fairy lights to take in spectacular mountain views and sunsets. Indoors provides a warm ambience and traditional experience with Hanok roof tiles lining the dining area and the sights of Korea hanging on the walls; while each individual table is a cooking station for prime meat and vegetable choices.

 

Meaning ‘sizzle’ get ready to Jiggle your way through a meal of traditional dishes from spicy kimchi stew to Korean pancakes and warming ramyeon noodles; pair a rice wine, soju or beer with beef bibimbap and steamed rice, or garlic and soy sauce fried chicken.

Those seeking tasty American fare with a Southern twist head to Smoky Mountain Hideaway on Mt Glorious Road in Brisbane. This Mount Glorious dining destination boasts stunning views of the surrounding area from the alfresco deck, ideal for lingering over a glass of wine on sunny days; while indoors oozes a warm and welcoming vibe as you peruse an ever-evolving menu sure to tempt all tastes.

 

 

Start your day the right way with crispy fried chicken with a hint of smoke and waffles with a drizzle of maple syrup; lunch-goers wrap their hands around a Reuben sandwich with housemade pastrami, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese and spicy dressing.