Choux won’t believe what Room81 is dishing up this July.
Choux won’t believe what Room81 is dishing up this July.
Excusez-moi, apparently it is now July and where do we complain – because there must be some kind of misunderstanding
Even though this year feels like it’s zooming by faster than the Giant Drop (can you tell we’re excited that it’s officially re-opened), the unnervingly fast passage of time also bestows upon us many silver linings. With the winter months officially on our doorstep, our most favourite venues are pulling out all the most delicious and enticing stops to coax us out of our hibernation – and it’s working.
With July comes Bastille Day, France’s national day and when the world capital of gourmet cuisine wants to celebrate, well, who are we to disagree with such a magnifique excuse to eat, drink and be merry. And if you’re not lucky enough to find yourself in the city of love to mark the occasion, skip the jet lag and do the best thing – take your tastebuds on a journey around the world instead.
Never ones to miss an opportunity to dish up something indulgent, our friends over at Room81 have of course been diligently whipping up something extra decadent to celebrate. We never need much (any) encouragement to partake in some French delights, but a luscious Parisian tasting menu that sounds choux good to be true seems a pretty fitting way to join the festivities.
Like any French restaurant worth it’s sel, the mood at Room81 is all about the romance and sophistication. The softly lit interiors bring a warm glow to the elegant, dark accents of the intimate surrounds. Which is just as well, because you’re going to need to get settle in and get yourself in the mood before you embark on this culinary adventure.
For $89pp, the Parisian Tasting Menu will take you on a délicieux gastronomic journey. Chef YK and his expert team have crafted a tantalising tasting menu that will have the ooh la la’s coming from the very first bite. Room81’s penchant for combining traditional and contemporary flavours results in a first-class, best of both worlds dining experience. Go all out and upgrade with a French wine pairing at $169pp, and you’ll officially be on cloud wine.
What could be more Parisian than starting with the Boulangerie – even the daily baked bread and butter even sounds better in French, and tastes better too. Before moving on to traditional flavours such as Salted cod brandade to lather over a crispy oat biscuit and lemon gel.
Now we don’t want to make like that one annoying friend that can’t help but spoil movie endings, but it feels almost illegal to not also mention the Cassoulet – toulouse sausage, fennel, pork rinds, cannellini beans and of course the Bourguignonne – 24 hour braised black onyx beef cheek, champignon mushroom, baby potatoes.
And what Parisian feast would be complete without some sweet treats? Certainly not this one. Just when you thought you couldn’t handle any more deliciousness, imagine sinking your spoon into a Croquembouche – crisp mini profiteroles filled with velvety crème chiboust, all drizzled in no less than two types of chocolate (how very French) and isomalt.
When it comes to food and drink, the French never do anything by halves, and we can always rely on Room81 to give us the full Parisian treatment. Book here and thank us later.
Bon appétit!
Where: Sofitel Gold Coast, 81 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
When: Friday & Saturday – 4pm to late, all July long
Words by Kellie Leader.
STORY SPONSORED BY SOFITEL GOLD COAST & ROOM81
Bonsoir madames and monsieurs..
Aaand we’ve reached the limit of our French capabilities. Where do we head to fulfil our French food fantasies when the cravings just won’t quit? Straight to the heart of Broadbeach to the crème de la crème of the Gold Coast’s culinary crop, Room81, bien sûr.
You already know the Sofitel Gold Coast’s impeccable reputation for all things indulgent, so naturally, its very own French gem Room81 is a love letter to the world capital of gourmet cuisine. Taking all those beloved flavours and textures of classic French recipes and putting their own contemporary twist for a magnifique gastronomic journey.
Stepping in to the space feels kind of like being invited to some kind of exclu culinary club, it’s cosy and intimate with just the right amount of elegance that gives you the heads up to prepare for an experience that’s a little bit spesh. Rich timbers and dark accents bring the mood, with the exposed beams that line the ceiling drawing your eye out to the alfresco dining space on the deck and street beyond. Bringing the ambience to offset all those dramatic finishes is the warm glow of the various lighting features incorporated throughout the room.
At the helm is head chef YK, who brings a whole lotta experience whipping up deliciousness at the likes of other local faves like Social Eating House + Bar. We were fortunate enough to win him over during a GC holiday a few years back (take that, Sydney), and well, we’ve been reaping the benefits ever since.
Since we can’t resist a cheeky name drop, after previously notching up some rather prolific names such as Quay Restaurant and The Ritz Carlton Hotel in Naples, Florida, YK felt it was officially time for him to set his sights on his dream to “work at a restaurant in a 5-star hotel” here on the Coast. Keen to continue the well-respected reputation Room81 was known for with a YK twist, giving it the “young and kute” treatment, as he calls it. He adds “Room81’s signature dishes are evolving and it will continue to change for giving our lovely guests having fun every time they visit.”
Currently, the menu showcases the signature blend of contemporary and classic Parisian flavours (and of course a painstakingly curated selection of French wines for the full authentic experience). Our tip would be to leave it in YK’s expert hands for the full experience and indulge in the Chef’s Tasting Menu, with a continuous serving of Shared Plates, and at $89pp it’s an irresistibly sweet deal. With a focus on seasonal and local produce, the Chefs offering changes accordingly – but expect to be wowed by dishes such as Tartare de boeuf – Wagyu with dijon, pickles, capers, horseradish, wagyu fat snow, milk skin and the signature Apple salad aka Salade de pommes with compressed apple, almond cream, basil oil, apple balsamic.
And if you’re suddenly in the mood for a fancy French feast, #same. But before you escar-go-t straight over and book yourself in for the full wining and dining treatment that’s a oui bit different in all the best ways, check out our 5 minutes with the man himself, YK.
5 MINUTES WITH CHEF YK
What inspired you to join Room81?
My dream since arriving on the Gold Coast was to work at an established restaurant in a five-star hotel, I knew of Room 81’s reputation from its many awards and through my network of foodies. As soon as I had started in conversation with Executive chef Steve Forrester and learning about his vision and passion for food, I knew I could make this a success, Chef Steve allows me to put my own signature on the food served in Room 81 but it’s also great that I can lean on him for the true French influence from his vast back ground. I’m really excited to work with my young team of chefs and font of house team to honour the Room 81 reputation.
How would you describe the culinary style or concept of Room81?
It’s an homage to French classics, being part of the Sofitel hotel, we try to use classical French techniques and luxury styling as the base, our food, cocktails and even service are young at the moment, since the whole Covid experience impacted many restaurants across the world we felt like we had the chance to start again, so the style and concept will evolve as we do.
How do you plan to give the menu the signature YK touch?
I call it Young and Kute, ha ha, after my name, which is all about being playful, using quality seasonal ingredients and making them shine using colour and multiple textures and techniques on each plate, you really have to try it.
Can you share any signature dishes or innovative menu items that customers can look forward to experiencing at Room81?
Room 81’s dishes are ever evolving, but we always have something for everyone, like our wagyu tartare with wagyu fat milk skin and our yummy version of smoked Tasmanian salmon French toast, sounds like breakfast, but it’s even better as dinner. We are always working with our suppliers to enhance our offering, this next month we have a partnership with Woombye cheese. Chef Steve and I are always looking at new products, but always bring out the classic luxury items like Lobster, caviar and Truffle.
Where: Sofitel Gold Coast, 81 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
When: Tuesday to Saturday – 4pm to late
Words by Kellie Leader.
Images by Brittany Kreskas.
STORY SPONSORED BY SOFITEL GOLD COAST & ROOM81
Social Eating House + Bar has long been a ‘casual fine dining’ Gold Coast favourite. With an impressive international tapas/shared plate style menu that includes the likes of Grilled Miso Quail, or even Lightly Smoked and Grilled Ocean Trout, it’s no wonder they’re a winner of not just one but two Hats from The Australian Good Food Guide. Freshly appointed Head Chef, YK, joined the team just a little over a month ago and has since hit the ground running. We had the pleasure to get to know him a bit more, and find out that he is a Chef passionate about making people happy, seeing them come together and enjoy the food he has prepared.
How long have you been a Gold Coast local?
Not very long! I have only been on the Gold Coast for just over a month.
What do you love most about living here?
The ocean. Wherever I go, I am so close to the beach. Plus the Gold Coast has some pretty friendly people!
Tell us about your chef journey thus far.
I have been studying cooking since I was 15 years old. I graduated Kimpo University (a culinary art association) and went to the Army Service for 2 years as a Chef. Once I finished my duty of service I moved to the USA, and held an Internship for a year at The Ritz Carlton Hotel in Naples, Florida. After this, I moved back to my home country where I started to work at the Banyan Tree Hotel. It was there that I was fortunate enough to meet some great Chefs. Not long after I returned, I began to think of moving to Australia because there are lots of different fresh produce and cooking techniques that intrigued me. From there, I explored and looked into the opportunity of graduating from Le Cordon Bleu in Sydney. The next thing I know, I was working at Quay Restaurant, then Bennelong and then moved to Aubergine Restaurant in Canberra. I worked for Ben (Aubergine Restaurant Owner & Chef) for five years and learnt a lot of cooking techniques and how to ‘respect’ all ingredients. It wasn’t until my wife and I were on a Gold Coast holiday that we realised that we had fallen in love with the Gold Coast and wanted to call it our home.
What’s your proudest chef moment?
When my service has been smooth and everyone is happy.
Where do you draw your inspiration from?
Jeffo (Matt Jefferson)
What’s your favourite dish to cook at home?
Korean instant noodle
Tell us about what changes you are bringing to Social Eating House + Bar.
I am currently working on implementing some recipe books for the restaurant. Further to this I am trying to implement a super organized kitchen where chefs can work smart and efficiently.
What else is in the works for you in 2021?
I am having a baby, so very much looking forward to adding to my family.
Tell us your favourites on the Coast…
Café for breakfast: I am new here so I haven’t been everywhere but I have been to Bam Bam Bakehouse, Mermaid Beach
Coffee spot: no name lane, Broadbeach
Restaurant for dinner: Has to be Social Eating House + Bar, Broadbeach
Bar or pub for a drink: Again, has to be Social Eating House + Bar, Broadbeach
How does your weekend usually look? I usually spend my time at home with my wife, and lately we have been getting ready for our new baby.
Broadbeach has long been regarded as one of our wining, dining and shopping. With a number of ‘stayers’ boasting staunch followers for many moons, sprinkled with a hearty helping of shiny new eats and drinks players, nothing can dull the sparkle of this burb’s A-grade entertainer status.
Here are precisely 17 reasons why locals – and Gold Coasters far and wide – love themselves a piece of our much-loved Broady.
Social Eating House + Bar
If you’re a foodie, this is your go-to. A modern Australian sensation, Social has more hats than a Milliner’s workshop. With Executive Chef Matthew Jefferson in charge, you’ll experience a carefully curated range of bar snacks, charcuterie, and small and large share plates, all featuring the finest Australian ingredients and paired to perfection. A meal here is worth.every.cent.
Where: 3 Oracle Boulevard, Broadbeach
The Star Gold Coast
If ever there was a reason to get a babysitter, it’s for a session at The Star. Between the live music and amazing food at the Garden Kitchen & Bar, award-winning Cantonese, Japanese and modern Australian cuisine at Uncle Su, Kiyomi, and Nineteen at The Star, authentic Italian eats at Cucina Vivo, the ultimate buffet experience at Harvest Buffet, a few bevvies at the new-look Atrium Bar and/or the Insta-fave rooftop lounge bar at Nineteen, who needs to go anywhere else?
Where: 1 Casino Drive, Broadbeach
Broadbeach Bowls Club
Nothing says a chilled GC arvo like a game of barefoot bowls with a brew in hand. Another enduring favourite amongst the local set here on the GC, Broadbeach Bowls Club never fails to deliver a feel-good time for young and old. They serve up big portions of all your go-to pub-grub meals and do a great canape package for a laid-back birthday or celebration.
Where: 169 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Dracula’s Cabaret Restaurant
If you’re after a tried and tested, long-standing comedic cabaret, good ‘ole Dracs has been serving up frights, food and frivolity since we were all ankle-biters. Most people are sold when they hear there’s a ghost train alone, let alone the actual show (which changes every so often, so there’s always a reason to go back), banquet dinner…and shots in syringes!
Where: Hooker Boulevard, Broadbeach
Aloha Bar and Dining
This tropical hidden treasure is all fun vibes, good food and cracking good times. Popular for its hospo nights, taco Thursdays, karaoke nights, live music and pumping DJs, there’s always something going on here. The tapas always deliver the feels (bao buns…I die!!), the Cucumber and Jalapeno Margi is (too) easy to drink, and we never tire of the super cute fit-out.
Where: 18 Main Place, Broadbeach
Sofia’s Restaurant & Bar
With an impressive contemporary Coastal European menu, we are completely besotted with Sofia’s…and we’re not alone. A meal here is all about enjoying and sharing simple, delicious food with your favourite people – as it should be, and truly encapsulates the famous words ‘That’s Amore’. Also, you heard it here first but Sofia’s is on the move. Watch this space!
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre, Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach
Elk Espresso
Have you ever seen this place anything but bulging at the seams? Aaaand of course you haven’t. Since its pre-migration days just up the road, it’s had an army of raving fans and yes, this obvs includes us. A hop, skip and a jump from the beach, the coffee is all-time, the seasonal menus are heavenly, and they even do a Boozy Bottomless Brunch. And sold.
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre, 12 Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach
Blues on Broadbeach
So unlike our other listings, it may not be here 24/7 but it’s that much of a Broady icon that it would be criminal not to throw it a mention. As the name suggests, it brings us world-class blues and jazz music from locals and famous acts alike, performing across multiple venues over four unforgettable days. And it’s free, and sorry but when does that ever happen?
Where: Various Broadbeach venues
CHA CHA Japanese Restaurant
Gold Coasters have been CHA CHA bound for an authentic Japanese nosh-up which won’t break the bank for years, and that’s not about to change any time soon. The banquet menu is divine and every visit you’ll experience the same level of scrumptiousness. But the soy on the dim sum…it’s BYO and it’s hard to find an already affordable yet high-quality restaurant offering our 3 favourite letters. Score.
Where: 2705 Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach
The Oasis
An everyday escape for locals, The Oasis is one of our numero uno shopping centres and for good reason. Not only some unique fashion boutiques live here, but the sheer number of amazing eateries is tres impressive. In addition to the ones we highlight in this article, we’re talking Mario’s, Madisons Café and Patisserie, Spice Kitchen and Bar, and The Broadbeach Tavern to name just a few. It’s a #OneStopShop.
Where: 75 Surf Parade, Broadbeach
Soho House Bar
Just look for the London-esk red phone box and you know good times await. An intimate, hidden gem-adorned in graffiti and jam-packed with peeps sipping and bopping along to the sweet sounds of live DJ’s, this joint is seriously cool. The cocktail list is l.i.t, the crew are super engaging, and they’ve even been known to host things like a Wild Flower Gin Masterclass. What’s not to love?
Where: Gold Coast Highway, Broadbeach (between Queensland and Victoria Avenues)
Unicorn Seafood
You just know it’s destined for greatness with ‘Unicorn’ in the name. This Mediterranean seafood-infused newcomer has hit the ground running with its all-day menu goodness, and show-stopping cocktail menu that’s 20 options deep #hellofriend. You can’t help it but exhale as you settle into the relaxing blue and white-hued space, brimming with ocean murals and friendly smiles from the welcoming staff.
Where: Phoenician Resort, 24-26 Queensland Avenue, Broadbeach
No Name Lane
Okay, Blake Lively declared her caffeine hit from No Name Lane as “the best coffee of her life” and holy heck, if it’s good enough for Queen Blake… Better than any boujee on-trend Melbourne café, the coffee here has a cult following. The all-day breakfasts and gourmet lunches also go down a treat so if you haven’t been, remedy this immediately.
Where: The Oracle, Elizabeth Avenue, Broadbeach
Pacific Fair
Pacific Fair, oh how we love thee. Any time we want a new ensemble for, well, any occasion (retail therapy is real you know), we all beeline for Pac Fair. With every retailer you could possibly wish for, amazing food options and seriously THE most gorgeous shopping centre fit-out we’ve seen, there are luxe and lush coastal accents at every turn.
Where: Gold Coast Hwy and Hooker Blvd, Broadbeach
The Loose Moose
Specialising in “dirty food made clean”, there are always bums on seats in this Prohibition Tap and Grill House, one of the Gennari Group’s most popular establishments. The delish menu offers up the best of the best Canadian fare like ribs, wings, hot dogs and burgers, and is always ready for a crowd to #GetLooseAtTheMoose.
Where: The Oasis Shopping Centre, Broadbeach
The Pink Flamingo Spiegelclub
LBR, you had us at Spiegelclub. The Pink Flamingo has become a fave for locals, visitors and critics alike, with its four spectacular resident cabaret-style shows. Custom designed with a twist of swanky art-deco décor and inspired by the original 1920’s Spiegeltent and the NYC Cabaret Club district, it’s five-star luxury and entertainment not to be missed.
Where: Corner of Surf Parade & Victoria Avenue, Broadbeach
Kurrawa Surf Club
Ocean views don’t come any better than this. With legit THE most prime location, Kurrawa Surf Club has everything you’d want from a Surf Club…and more. With awesome regular members specials and fresh ingredients, there’s no such thing as a bad meal here. They host a trivia night and live music, and of course there’s the obligatory gaming lounge for those who like a flutter.
Where: Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach
Words by Bianca Trathen.
