Review By: mystery
Wednesday, February 8, 2006

When I was told that I was going to review a 6-course degustation menu at a beachside restaurant, my worst fears were confirmed - this is indeed a tough job, but I was more than happy to take one for the team on this occasion!

I will readily admit that it took a quick google to reveal that a degustation in its simplest is a 'tasting' - small servings of exquisite dishes perfectly paired with wines to accentuate the flavours both within the wine and food. Even though I came prepared for some great dining, our hosts for the evening had turned what would be a great meal into an indelible culinary experience.

Reading through the degustation menu description is likely to confuse even the most reasonable of us; crocodile, emu and kangaroo are far more likely to be featured on our safari experiences through the Top End than our gourmet section, but on closer investigation, the true genius of this experience comes to the fore. The cuisine not only blends together a beautiful mix of red and white Australian wines, the very meats and sauces on the menu are wholly Australian; Illawara plum sauce adding a bold flavour to tender emu meat, succulent olives glistening in paperbark oil and fragrant seaweed rounding out the light taste of grilled yabbie. Each dish and glass of wine ceaselessly vied for attention without tiring the palate. This is undoubtedly Australian cuisine at its absolute best and confidently poised at a new-found maturity, leagues past the same meats being treated as novelty dishes in overpriced pubs, all of which caught me a little off guard.

Absolutely every detail was catered to, as our hosts carefully explained each pairing of wine with each course, what flavours we were to expect from our strong, peppery reds and the lighter complements between the whites and the seafood (although I was left to ponder whether crocodile technically counts as seafood!). The staff cheerfully answered our questions, and even actually proffered us a little bit more wine when we had found a favourite. Special note is given to the pacing of the courses; while plates were whisked away promptly as the dishes were laid to waste, plenty of time was given to relax between courses and stare off into space with contented grins, half-empty wine glasses in hand. It seemed that each course was punctuated with moments of silent bliss.

From crocodile to crème brulee, the dishes sauntered into a crescendo and human nature expects a dish to eclipse it's predecessor. This was not the case at all; there were no clear winners and each course had a right to be comfortable in its place. From the wonderfully textured, 'almost salty' (try it and you'll see what I mean) crocodile to the dark meat of the emu, nothing was missed, and I certainly was not left wanting. This was an incredible meal, and certainly the culinary experience of a lifetime!

Reviewed By: Charissie
Wednesday, November 21, 2007

We had great food with well matched wines and wonderful service from our waitress. Overall the night was a fantastic experience!

Reviewed By: Fiona
Tuesday, April 10, 2007

The food and service was fantastic. The degustation menu was superbly done, and the wine matching was excellent.

Reviewed By: Larah
Friday, March 30, 2007

The food was great and service even better. Our waiter knew his wines inside out and the menu items were matched perfectly .

Reviewed By: Peta
Thursday, March 8, 2007

The waiter was amazing, he explained every dish and wine to us and answered any questions we had. The venue, food and overall experience was fantastic!

Reviewed By: Gwenda
Friday, February 23, 2007

The evening was an experience to really enjoy and savour, the service was exceptional, the waiter was very knowledgeable about all the wines to accompany the various courses, and the food was magnificent. The North Queensland crocodile carpaccio was the highlight of the meal as was the Massale Pinot Noir from the Mornington Peninsula.

Reviewed By: Tracie
Friday, February 23, 2007

This is a great gift for someone visiting or new to the area, as it gives you a taste of true Australian food, including crocodile, emu, yabbies and kangaroo. I really enjoyed how they tried to use the native fruits, produce and wildlife in their menu.

Reviewed By: Craig and Fiona
Monday, February 19, 2007

It was fantastic - we had wonderful service, and the food and wine was superb. They looked after us very well and it was a great gift.

Reviewed By: Tana
Monday, February 12, 2007

Our Australian native outback degustation was brilliant. The food, wine and service were all superb. It was made even more special by all the little extras, such as the delicious native cocktail at the start of the evening. We went home very full and very content.

Reviewed By: Geoff
Friday, January 19, 2007

The venue and the food were excellent and very well presented. The commentary and expertise was most informative and responsive to feedback. I would recommend this experience to others who enjoy good food and wine with a difference.

Reviewed By: Katie
Tuesday, January 9, 2007

I would definitely recommend this experience. The waiters were polite and well informed about both the food and the wine.

Reviewed By: Paul
Friday, September 15, 2006

An excellent experience, a very nice way to reward or surprise someone !

Reviewed By: Eileen
Thursday, December 7, 2006

We enjoyed the experience, the food and service were good. Now we can tell people we have had a taste of crocodile, emu and kangaroo. The dessert was exceptional and the wines complimented the different dishes.

Reviewed By: Ann
Wednesday, August 23, 2006

We had the most enjoyable evening. We have recommended this to all of our new Aussie friends. Taste the real Aussie tucker!!!

Reviewed By: Amy
Monday, July 31, 2006

An amazing culinary evening. Absolutely exceptional service!