newfarmfoodie

6.5 Recommended

Food  5      Ambience  7      Service  8      Value  6     

We've dined here a few times now, for both lunch and dinner and the results have been pretty inconsistent, even within the same meal order on the same day.

'The Wharf' at Mooloolaba's environs is in need of a serious upgrade, it looks tired, dated and dirty with numerous potholes to negotiate via both car and foot. Not the most salubrious scenery from the outside! Shame - because the complex commands prime position alongside the Mooloolah River, with riverside McMansions across the way, and marine craft ranging from tinnies to Super Yachts cruising past.

Eating outside at this tavern is certainly preferable in terms of ambience, but snagging a table with shade can be problematic and you will need sunscreen and hat. Inside, floors are always sticky for some reason with the smell of stale beer and the furnishings look quite tired.

On our last visit 'Classic Fish & Chips' ($21.50) - Aussie Barramundi in a 'Fat Yak' beer batter with chips and salad was a disappointment. The lone fillet presented in a flabby batter with oil that had seen out it's time. My fish special of the day ($25) was the same dish with addition of 3 cold Mooloolaba King Prawns in shell and a fresh avocado salsa.

Prawns were fresh and sweet, the salsa very enjoyable, but again, the oil used for the chips and fish was old and unable to produce a crisp result so I didn't enjoy the soggy serve.

Salad was colourful and contained all fresh ingredients including fine julienne of fresh beetroot.

The 'Seniors' lunch menu generally offers a fish dish and a 200g Graziers Rump, served with the same sized salad and chips as meals twice the price and represents fairly good value.

So, our score must represent the mixed results. However, on all occasions the serving staff have been pretty on-the-ball and certainly personable. Our advice? Steer clear of the fried foods, grab a spot in the shade on the deck (you may have to book at peak times) and you'll probably enjoy dining here more than many other pubs on the Sunshine Coast.

NB: In 2011, on Thursday nights a 'Seniors VIP' night offered a selection of meals from the a-la-carte menu for $12.50 to valid Seniors Card-holders. The venue was very busy as a result.

A few weeks ago we swung by intending after seeing a movie to dine under this particular offer, only to be told it had ceased in December 2011 and, "Chef is still deciding what he wants to do". As there were only 2 people dining in the vast space at the time I would suggest 'Chef' may choose to re-consider implementing this offer again sooner rather than later as price-savvy punters are clearly voting with their feet and in this economic climate businesses shouldn't be discouraging turnover of tables albeit it at a smaller profit. Just a suggestion.

Update: Chef may read 'Eatability'? As they have now re-instated the Thursday Night VIP Seniors offer. Will visit soon and keep you posted!

Update: As of July 2012 this venue has replaced the 'Seniors Night' offer and replaced with 'Uni Night' - aimed at the Uni Students and offering free bus to haul them in from the Western part of the Coast. Obviously a complete turn-around and aiming for a completely different clientele (Management change?).

As I've been told there's some pretty heavy-duty noise and agro emanating from this venue from friends who briefly lived opposite (and also read about it in the local media) will leave you to make up your own mind as to whether this particular venue is your style or not.

Aug 22, 2012

9 Highly Recommended

Quality  9      Ambience  9      Service  9      Value  9     

Update: Red Hot Chilli Peppers Tea Bar is a great addition and we've now been back a number of times too. We try to order a different tea each time as there are a couple of dozen to choose from (although I have to say I have loved the Organic Lemongrass and Ginger this Winter whilst the better is going all out and enjoys everything from the Chilli Hot Chocolate, various Ginger Blend Teas, Chais and a new Green Tea with Licorice.

There's a really decent deal where you get a pot of tea (couple of cups worth) with something like a 'Moroccan' Rocky Road or yummy healthy spiced fruit and nut ball with sesame seeds or a little cakey treat for around the $4 buck mark. Bargain.

Vicki is also doing Spice 'Appreciation' Classes now which, I heard on the local jungle drums, are really good fun. You come away with lots of information and also some 'bespoke' blends to try out on your friends.

Every time I go in this shop I see something new from some pretty colourfully named local chilli sauces that will blow you away to more unusual Feijoa jam, all grown and made here on the Sunshine Coast. Will make great gifts for my foodie friends in southern climes this Christmas!

I previously reviewed: As I am not one to ever allocate a 'perfect 10' I must apologise to the Proprietor of Red Hot Chilli Pepper in advance of my review.

I was excited when this retail store opened just over one year ago not far from where I live, as access to Purveyors of quality food products on a daily basis are sadly still few and far between on the Sunshine Coast Strip.

The intoxicating aroma of destinations far more exotic than downtown Caloundra assail your senses even before entering this homage to seductive spices garnered from all corners of the globe.

Hats off to Vicki Taylor, who followed her heart after a successful career in the financial arena, to focus on a passion instead.

Chilli heads will be chuffed at the vast array of foodstuffs featuring this ingredient, from chocolate through to sauces, chutneys, carbs and seasonings.

Quality spices packs from 'Herbies' vie with bespoke 'Red Hot Chilli Pepper' blends, created on-site by Vicki, not to mention a selection of seed packs for those with a patch to plant, and other value-added mixes, pastes and even impregnated skewers for BBQ's and a baked dinner with a difference!

Gourmet items from Regional food producers around Australia create a point of difference here at RHCP. For example, here one can find 'Zimmy's' products direct from their small family business in South Australia's Barossa Valley.

Zimmy's has been creating Germanic specialties for generations and they are rarely found outside Tanunda, S.A. for retail sale. I'm a great believer in their 'Doc Away' - strange name but a great marinade/cordial replacement/ ingredient in salad dressings, with the base made from pure apple cider vinegar produced from their orchards and their own organic honey.

Zimmy's horseradish is the real thing, if you can't handle it 'as is', try mixing with sour cream or cream for a subtle taste sensation. Their
'Trinity' garlic will change your way of thinking regarding 'jarred' garlic, again with a hint of their famous apple cider vinegar and honey.

And the 'Barossa Valley Pickle'? Let's just say that the man of the house would have it on everything from a cheese or ham sandwich, through to urging me to make it into a delicious dip for crudites mixed with sour cream.

But wait! there's more! Again from the Barossa, Weich's hand-made Noodles are produced from Barossa Valley eggs and slow-dried to produce an authentic noodle that doesn't break apart. RHCP stocks them in the traditional wide egg noodle variety, perfect for a home-made Ragu or Carbonara with bite. Or try the Organic Chilli noodles, I boiled and then wokked them in a stir-fry to really fabulous results.

Calasperra Rice for a paella or authentic Arborio for risotto. Bronze die cut-pasta that both hold their shape and sauce can also be found.

Traditional Moroccan Tagines have long been a favourite of mine when treating friends to dinner, and here not only can you purchase the spices to make a memorable meal, but also the Tagine in which to cook it! Vicki stocks the same hand-made tagines as made for famous chef Steven Snow at 'Fins' Restaurant in Byron Shire by a talented local potter, not to mention some more purely decorative models and also terracotta ones sourced from overseas.

Great gift ideas include Masala Dabba Spice Tins which are filled with the spices of your choice and make a seriously practical gift for any enthusiastic cook. Decorative Indian ceramic spice drawers (not to mention the most gorgeous drawer pulls/handles you will find on the Coast) are all available here.

Do I sound like I love this store? Yes! And I love that there are free tastings every weekend so I can swing past and try something new, I also like the fact I can speak to a personable proprietor who believes in sourcing a varied range with a reasonable mark-up, whilst providing old fashioned service with a smile, whether a free sample here or a recipe there, nothing seems to be too much trouble (which is sadly a rarity nowadays).

So to quote a famous Aussie - 'Do yourself a favour' and visit Red Hot Chilli Pepper soon (and I won't mention the German designed Chilli grinder stocked, you will have to see it for yourself but I will go as far as to say that having this sit on your table may create many memorable conversations and meals!)

Aug 22, 2012

8.8 Highly Recommended

Quality  9      Ambience  8      Service  9      Value  9     

We have just had the pleasure of attending the annual 'Open Cockpit Weekend' (which is held on the middle weekend of the July Queensland school holidays) at the Queensland Air Museum in Caloundra.

What a fantastic attraction the QAM is for the Coast!

I was amazed at the comprehensive displays of both aeroplanes and helicopters, including De Havilland Canada Caribou A4-173 [C/N 173] the only one I believe located within a museum in Australia, Douglas DC-3-194B VH-ANR [C/N 1944] (the oldest one in Australia), Fairey Gannet AS MK 1 XA331 [C/N F9223], CAC CA-16 Wirraway MK III A20-652 [C/N 1104], and a much travelled Fokker F.27 Friendship MK 400 VH-FNQ [C/N 10315].

There are comprehensive displays of memorabilia, photos, maps and replicas and we have no hesitation in strongly recommending as being of general interest to all who have ever been in an aeroplane, whether young, old, male or female!

Well worth a visit, with the majority of displays under cover, making it an all-weather attraction.

The QAM is adjacent to the Caloundra Airport so you have the chance of viewing light aircraft and helicopters taking off or landing, or even experiencing a joy-flight in a Warbird!

Conveniently located only a few kilometres from Caloundra's Bulcock Street, and a few hundred metres from the main aterial roads the QAM is open daily between 10-4 (excepting Christmas Day) and is a tourist gem that should be better known and attended.

Jul 01, 2012

9.3 Highly Recommended

Quality  9      Service  10      Value  9     

If you’ve ever dreamed of a photograph you will always treasure, taken at a location of your choice on the Sunshine Coast (or possibly further afield), we urge you to contact the delightful Anna Gilbert.

Let me digress,

As photo-shoot ‘virgins’ it was with trepidation I informed the ‘Sexy Senior Cit’ of an appointment I’d made with a professional photographer. To say he was hesitant would be an understatement.

Yet I had visions of beautiful weather, an idyllic outdoor location and serious airbrushing culminating in a visual image one would actually want to display rather than dump.

Imagine my shock when I forgot said appointment, and failed to check my phone for days, discovered late one night it was scheduled the next afternoon! Plans to prepare not only our hair/faces/wardrobe were now in complete disarray. The 'SSC' was horrified.

Thank goodness then our Photographer was Anna Gilbert!

Faced with this dishevelled duo, her smile brightened an otherwise overcast day. (Luckily I had previously scouted out some potential locations - sand dunes, jetties, and dinghies – all designed to hide my Rubenesque curves).

Anna quickly put us both at ease, suggesting poses etc. and keeping things snappy (excuse the pun!) so we were more focussed on what we were doing rather than worrying about how we looked.

Throughout our session, her energy and infectious sense of humour never flagged and we managed shots at a variety of locations close together alongside the beautiful Pumicestone Passage.

Her professional equipment, direction and the fact that we not only looked like we were having fun but obviously were - attracted onlookers at each place (bet they scanned local media for days looking for our picture – ha! ha!)

We arranged to meet later at her studio at Marcoola for a viewing of selected shots and were thrilled to see the results. Anna’s artistic flair for composition, lighting and content were apparent. And no, we didn’t need serious airbrushing either! It was so hard to decide which one/s we liked the most. Even better, our images are archived so we can always order additional memories.

Mar 17, 2012

9.5 Highly Recommended

Quality  10      Ambience  9      Service  10      Value  9     

We first heard about 'My Body Talks To Me' late last year, and in dire need of a 'tune-up', I made a booking for both of us.

Lee has a studio in Buderim, but is more than happy to arrange a visit to your home at a mutually convenient time. As one of us is elderly, not particularly well, nor used to massage or alternative therapies, this made facilitation of treatment much, much easier. I also appreciated I didn't have to organise us both out to another venue, and, therefore, we could really relax in familiar surroundings following her visit.

Lee has a very professional portable set-up, and quickly put us both at ease. Different treatments were chosen for each of us based upon meeting. Lee conveyed everything very clearly during the sessions and her insight was apparent.

We both cannot recommend 'My Body Talks To Me' strongly enough. Lee offers very unique services to all her clients. She is an incredibly gifted therapist. As you know I never rate any review a perfect '10' but the other half of the equation was so insistent in this case I met halfway.

I have had more than one session with Lee, each and every time has been beneficial to both my physical and mental health. Thank you Lee!

Mar 10, 2012

6.5 Recommended

Food  5      Ambience  7      Service  8      Value  6     

We've dined here a few times now, for both lunch and dinner and the results have been pretty inconsistent, even within the same meal order on the same day.

'The Wharf' at Mooloolaba's environs is in need of a serious upgrade, it looks tired, dated and dirty with numerous potholes to negotiate via both car and foot. Not the most salubrious scenery from the outside! Shame - because the complex commands prime position alongside the Mooloolah River, with riverside McMansions across the way, and marine craft ranging from tinnies to Super Yachts cruising past.

Eating outside at this tavern is certainly preferable in terms of ambience, but snagging a table with shade can be problematic and you will need sunscreen and hat. Inside, floors are always sticky for some reason with the smell of stale beer and the furnishings look quite tired.

On our last visit 'Classic Fish & Chips' ($21.50) - Aussie Barramundi in a 'Fat Yak' beer batter with chips and salad was a disappointment. The lone fillet presented in a flabby batter with oil that had seen out it's time. My fish special of the day ($25) was the same dish with addition of 3 cold Mooloolaba King Prawns in shell and a fresh avocado salsa.

Prawns were fresh and sweet, the salsa very enjoyable, but again, the oil used for the chips and fish was old and unable to produce a crisp result so I didn't enjoy the soggy serve.

Salad was colourful and contained all fresh ingredients including fine julienne of fresh beetroot.

The 'Seniors' lunch menu generally offers a fish dish and a 200g Graziers Rump, served with the same sized salad and chips as meals twice the price and represents fairly good value.

So, our score must represent the mixed results. However, on all occasions the serving staff have been pretty on-the-ball and certainly personable. Our advice? Steer clear of the fried foods, grab a spot in the shade on the deck (you may have to book at peak times) and you'll probably enjoy dining here more than many other pubs on the Sunshine Coast.

NB: In 2011, on Thursday nights a 'Seniors VIP' night offered a selection of meals from the a-la-carte menu for $12.50 to valid Seniors Card-holders. The venue was very busy as a result.

A few weeks ago we swung by intending after seeing a movie to dine under this particular offer, only to be told it had ceased in December 2011 and, "Chef is still deciding what he wants to do". As there were only 2 people dining in the vast space at the time I would suggest 'Chef' may choose to re-consider implementing this offer again sooner rather than later as price-savvy punters are clearly voting with their feet and in this economic climate businesses shouldn't be discouraging turnover of tables albeit it at a smaller profit. Just a suggestion.

Update: Chef may read 'Eatability'? As they have now re-instated the Thursday Night VIP Seniors offer. Will visit soon and keep you posted!

Update: As of July 2012 this venue has replaced the 'Seniors Night' offer and replaced with 'Uni Night' - aimed at the Uni Students and offering free bus to haul them in from the Western part of the Coast. Obviously a complete turn-around and aiming for a completely different clientele (Management change?).

As I've been told there's some pretty heavy-duty noise and agro emanating from this venue from friends who briefly lived opposite (and also read about it in the local media) will leave you to make up your own mind as to whether this particular venue is your style or not.

Aug 22, 2012

9 Highly Recommended

Quality  9      Ambience  9      Service  9      Value  9     

Update: Red Hot Chilli Peppers Tea Bar is a great addition and we've now been back a number of times too. We try to order a different tea each time as there are a couple of dozen to choose from (although I have to say I have loved the Organic Lemongrass and Ginger this Winter whilst the better is going all out and enjoys everything from the Chilli Hot Chocolate, various Ginger Blend Teas, Chais and a new Green Tea with Licorice.

There's a really decent deal where you get a pot of tea (couple of cups worth) with something like a 'Moroccan' Rocky Road or yummy healthy spiced fruit and nut ball with sesame seeds or a little cakey treat for around the $4 buck mark. Bargain.

Vicki is also doing Spice 'Appreciation' Classes now which, I heard on the local jungle drums, are really good fun. You come away with lots of information and also some 'bespoke' blends to try out on your friends.

Every time I go in this shop I see something new from some pretty colourfully named local chilli sauces that will blow you away to more unusual Feijoa jam, all grown and made here on the Sunshine Coast. Will make great gifts for my foodie friends in southern climes this Christmas!

I previously reviewed: As I am not one to ever allocate a 'perfect 10' I must apologise to the Proprietor of Red Hot Chilli Pepper in advance of my review.

I was excited when this retail store opened just over one year ago not far from where I live, as access to Purveyors of quality food products on a daily basis are sadly still few and far between on the Sunshine Coast Strip.

The intoxicating aroma of destinations far more exotic than downtown Caloundra assail your senses even before entering this homage to seductive spices garnered from all corners of the globe.

Hats off to Vicki Taylor, who followed her heart after a successful career in the financial arena, to focus on a passion instead.

Chilli heads will be chuffed at the vast array of foodstuffs featuring this ingredient, from chocolate through to sauces, chutneys, carbs and seasonings.

Quality spices packs from 'Herbies' vie with bespoke 'Red Hot Chilli Pepper' blends, created on-site by Vicki, not to mention a selection of seed packs for those with a patch to plant, and other value-added mixes, pastes and even impregnated skewers for BBQ's and a baked dinner with a difference!

Gourmet items from Regional food producers around Australia create a point of difference here at RHCP. For example, here one can find 'Zimmy's' products direct from their small family business in South Australia's Barossa Valley.

Zimmy's has been creating Germanic specialties for generations and they are rarely found outside Tanunda, S.A. for retail sale. I'm a great believer in their 'Doc Away' - strange name but a great marinade/cordial replacement/ ingredient in salad dressings, with the base made from pure apple cider vinegar produced from their orchards and their own organic honey.

Zimmy's horseradish is the real thing, if you can't handle it 'as is', try mixing with sour cream or cream for a subtle taste sensation. Their
'Trinity' garlic will change your way of thinking regarding 'jarred' garlic, again with a hint of their famous apple cider vinegar and honey.

And the 'Barossa Valley Pickle'? Let's just say that the man of the house would have it on everything from a cheese or ham sandwich, through to urging me to make it into a delicious dip for crudites mixed with sour cream.

But wait! there's more! Again from the Barossa, Weich's hand-made Noodles are produced from Barossa Valley eggs and slow-dried to produce an authentic noodle that doesn't break apart. RHCP stocks them in the traditional wide egg noodle variety, perfect for a home-made Ragu or Carbonara with bite. Or try the Organic Chilli noodles, I boiled and then wokked them in a stir-fry to really fabulous results.

Calasperra Rice for a paella or authentic Arborio for risotto. Bronze die cut-pasta that both hold their shape and sauce can also be found.

Traditional Moroccan Tagines have long been a favourite of mine when treating friends to dinner, and here not only can you purchase the spices to make a memorable meal, but also the Tagine in which to cook it! Vicki stocks the same hand-made tagines as made for famous chef Steven Snow at 'Fins' Restaurant in Byron Shire by a talented local potter, not to mention some more purely decorative models and also terracotta ones sourced from overseas.

Great gift ideas include Masala Dabba Spice Tins which are filled with the spices of your choice and make a seriously practical gift for any enthusiastic cook. Decorative Indian ceramic spice drawers (not to mention the most gorgeous drawer pulls/handles you will find on the Coast) are all available here.

Do I sound like I love this store? Yes! And I love that there are free tastings every weekend so I can swing past and try something new, I also like the fact I can speak to a personable proprietor who believes in sourcing a varied range with a reasonable mark-up, whilst providing old fashioned service with a smile, whether a free sample here or a recipe there, nothing seems to be too much trouble (which is sadly a rarity nowadays).

So to quote a famous Aussie - 'Do yourself a favour' and visit Red Hot Chilli Pepper soon (and I won't mention the German designed Chilli grinder stocked, you will have to see it for yourself but I will go as far as to say that having this sit on your table may create many memorable conversations and meals!)

Aug 22, 2012

8.8 Highly Recommended

Quality  9      Ambience  8      Service  9      Value  9     

We have just had the pleasure of attending the annual 'Open Cockpit Weekend' (which is held on the middle weekend of the July Queensland school holidays) at the Queensland Air Museum in Caloundra.

What a fantastic attraction the QAM is for the Coast!

I was amazed at the comprehensive displays of both aeroplanes and helicopters, including De Havilland Canada Caribou A4-173 [C/N 173] the only one I believe located within a museum in Australia, Douglas DC-3-194B VH-ANR [C/N 1944] (the oldest one in Australia), Fairey Gannet AS MK 1 XA331 [C/N F9223], CAC CA-16 Wirraway MK III A20-652 [C/N 1104], and a much travelled Fokker F.27 Friendship MK 400 VH-FNQ [C/N 10315].

There are comprehensive displays of memorabilia, photos, maps and replicas and we have no hesitation in strongly recommending as being of general interest to all who have ever been in an aeroplane, whether young, old, male or female!

Well worth a visit, with the majority of displays under cover, making it an all-weather attraction.

The QAM is adjacent to the Caloundra Airport so you have the chance of viewing light aircraft and helicopters taking off or landing, or even experiencing a joy-flight in a Warbird!

Conveniently located only a few kilometres from Caloundra's Bulcock Street, and a few hundred metres from the main aterial roads the QAM is open daily between 10-4 (excepting Christmas Day) and is a tourist gem that should be better known and attended.

Jul 01, 2012

9.3 Highly Recommended

Quality  9      Service  10      Value  9     

If you’ve ever dreamed of a photograph you will always treasure, taken at a location of your choice on the Sunshine Coast (or possibly further afield), we urge you to contact the delightful Anna Gilbert.

Let me digress,

As photo-shoot ‘virgins’ it was with trepidation I informed the ‘Sexy Senior Cit’ of an appointment I’d made with a professional photographer. To say he was hesitant would be an understatement.

Yet I had visions of beautiful weather, an idyllic outdoor location and serious airbrushing culminating in a visual image one would actually want to display rather than dump.

Imagine my shock when I forgot said appointment, and failed to check my phone for days, discovered late one night it was scheduled the next afternoon! Plans to prepare not only our hair/faces/wardrobe were now in complete disarray. The 'SSC' was horrified.

Thank goodness then our Photographer was Anna Gilbert!

Faced with this dishevelled duo, her smile brightened an otherwise overcast day. (Luckily I had previously scouted out some potential locations - sand dunes, jetties, and dinghies – all designed to hide my Rubenesque curves).

Anna quickly put us both at ease, suggesting poses etc. and keeping things snappy (excuse the pun!) so we were more focussed on what we were doing rather than worrying about how we looked.

Throughout our session, her energy and infectious sense of humour never flagged and we managed shots at a variety of locations close together alongside the beautiful Pumicestone Passage.

Her professional equipment, direction and the fact that we not only looked like we were having fun but obviously were - attracted onlookers at each place (bet they scanned local media for days looking for our picture – ha! ha!)

We arranged to meet later at her studio at Marcoola for a viewing of selected shots and were thrilled to see the results. Anna’s artistic flair for composition, lighting and content were apparent. And no, we didn’t need serious airbrushing either! It was so hard to decide which one/s we liked the most. Even better, our images are archived so we can always order additional memories.

Mar 17, 2012

9.5 Highly Recommended

Quality  10      Ambience  9      Service  10      Value  9     

We first heard about 'My Body Talks To Me' late last year, and in dire need of a 'tune-up', I made a booking for both of us.

Lee has a studio in Buderim, but is more than happy to arrange a visit to your home at a mutually convenient time. As one of us is elderly, not particularly well, nor used to massage or alternative therapies, this made facilitation of treatment much, much easier. I also appreciated I didn't have to organise us both out to another venue, and, therefore, we could really relax in familiar surroundings following her visit.

Lee has a very professional portable set-up, and quickly put us both at ease. Different treatments were chosen for each of us based upon meeting. Lee conveyed everything very clearly during the sessions and her insight was apparent.

We both cannot recommend 'My Body Talks To Me' strongly enough. Lee offers very unique services to all her clients. She is an incredibly gifted therapist. As you know I never rate any review a perfect '10' but the other half of the equation was so insistent in this case I met halfway.

I have had more than one session with Lee, each and every time has been beneficial to both my physical and mental health. Thank you Lee!

Mar 10, 2012

5.8 Average

Food  5      Ambience  6      Service  6      Value  6     

Visiting for lunch the other day we noted dine-in prices on the lunch menu for the specials are now $9.50 eat-in. We ordered one of the 'standards' - 'Spicy Calamari' which was not as tasty as previously experienced, nor as plentiful. However, it was still served with choice of a small bowl of steamed or (egg) fried rice.

From the 'Vietnamese Specials' the Pork Spare Ribs with Spring Rolls and Vermicelli sounded appealing (and at $10.50 was at the top end of the lunch menu price scale) but in reality presented as a bowl of cold (undressed) vermicelli noodles, topped with water-logged carrot and cucumber - the 'spare ribs' comprising of some very small slivers of cold pork scattered with peanuts and the spring rolls (2) cut in quarters, and again cold.

The accompanying bowl of basically sugar, water and some chopped chilli lacked fish sauce and any real flavour profile and just added to the overall 'sogginess'. Overall, a real struggle to enjoy anything about this dish.

We previously reviewed in 2011 - Have continued to visit this venue over the years and in 2008 things went downhill somewhat but recalled West End Garden offers a $8.50 lunch special menu (they do offer other lunchtime choices on this menu but they are at their normal a-la-carte prices so read carefully).

On the way to the (superb) Valentino Retrospective at MOMA we were after something quick and tasty so decided to drop in last week. Ordered the 'Spicy Calamari' and the 'Mongolian Beef' from the fairly standard (read safe) choices. Both came with steamed or fried rice and we expected the rice to be on the same plate so were surprised when we received a more than decent sized separate plate of fried rice.

The spicy calamari disappeared in record time, the coating was crisp, the calamari tender with a thin spicy sauce spooned over.

Mongolian Beef was more pedestrian but also generous in size and vegies nice and crisp. Service was swift with iced water quickly provided. For $17 we left very full and certainly feeling we'd received great value for money. Noting the large amount of other lunch-time diners we are not the only ones to think this. Try here when next catching a movie at the nearby Southbank Cinemas during the week.

In 2007 I reviewed as follows: Have dined here on numerous occasions over the years. Pretty consistent food. Can get packed on Friday and Saturday nights especially with larger groups. Young staff well meaning but service can be somewhat haphazard. Picks are the Vietnamese dishes: Vietnamese Combination Spring Rolls, Sugarcane Prawns, Kung Pao Prawns, Garden Shin Beef, Salt and Pepper Squid, Spicy Fried Rice, Creamy Prawns.

Mar 04, 2012

6.2 Average

Food  6      Drinks  6      Ambience  5      Service  6      Value  8     

Update 2012: The venue no longer offers a drink with a $10 lunch choice.

I've dined here twice recently and ordered the $10 steak lunch special, aprroximately 200g steak with sauce of choice served on the side (pepper, hollandaise etc.) chips and some salad. The cashier will give you a ticket reedeemable at the bar for a pot of Carlton mid-strength (or a soft drink if you prefer).

The meal was served promptly to our table with the meat cooked as ordered. My advice would be to ask for "no salad dressing" on the salad as it is 'bulk commercial stuff', thick viscous and vinegary. The fresh salad ingredients would have been far more enjoyable without it (plus you have your steak's sauce anyway).

There is easy, free parking (both undercover and off street or street side) at the Tavern and two public fishing platforms on the Maroochy river within a stone's throw, one at the end of the side street the pub is on and the other reached by walking down to the right of Ebb restaurant, which is behind the Tavern.

We chose to have our steak lunch, head off to cast a line or two in the sunshine and swing back to the Tavern after stowing the rods back in the car to exchange our drink ticket for a icy cold beer. The 'Purple Palate' next to the Tavern offers some point-of-difference wines and beers to take home so check it out too.

Mar 03, 2012

9.3 Highly Recommended

Quality  9      Ambience  10      Service  9      Value  9     

An opportunity to enjoy "Messin' Around In Boats" on a sunny day can't be topped and if you haven't enjoyed a Caloundra Cruises trip on the picturesque Pumicestone Passage then you are really missing a great experience.

There are a number of cruise options (check out the website) and for those pressed for time you can do the return trip in 90 minutes at various times of the day. Current pricing is $20 adult (1/2 price kids 4-15 yrs)/$48 family (2 adults & up to 4 kids) or $19 concession (and current Govt. issued 'Companion Cardholder's are accepted).

We are locals and see the little boat/s cruising past our place daily and as we don't have access to a boat of our own regularly take a day cruise. The boats are well maintained, all the staff involved in this small family business are great and the experience is A1.

Usually we make a day's outing, boarding at Majola Jetty, Tripcony Lane, Caloundra (the ticket office is adjacent to the jetty) for the 11.30 am departure and enjoy a most relaxing journey via the Bulcock Beach Boardwalk area, swinging around into the Pumicestone Passage with Golden Beach on one side and Bribie Island on the other to the Pelican Waters Tavern jetty where the boat stops for an hour & a half (You can lunch at the Tavern or the nearby Shopping Centre offers a small Cafe, Bakery and 2 supermarkets).

The return journey to Caloundra at 1.40 pm is via a slightly different route (new as of Sept 2011), cruising past Military Jetty towards Bells Creek, as you take in views of the Glasshouse Mountains to the west, small islands and a lagoon area populated by abundant birdlife - not to mention an amazing vista of the entire Caloundra skyline - before returning to Caloundra via the sheltered side of Bribie at approximately 2.30 pm.

Undercover seating is inside the boat, or if you prefer, climb the ladder to the top deck. During each cruise there is an informative commentary not only on the sights you'll see but including interesting environmental and historical facts.

The boats have a draft/draught of only 60 cms, which allows them to get in close to the Bribie shoreline and birdlife which may be spotted along the way. Each passenger can really appreciate how pristine the waters of the Pumicestone Passage are by just glancing down a few feet to the sea bed.

You cannot help but feel totally renewed after one of these calm water cruises - with a relaxing pace and such scenic surroundings - like us, we believe you will return again & again and enjoy each cruise just as much.

Sep 22, 2011

5.3 Average

Food  6      Ambience  4      Service  4      Value  7     

After having a favourite Thai for many years when living elsewhere we are always on the lookout for a family-run venue with good, honest, reasonably priced food.

Thai Lotus received an encouraging night-time review recently, so we thought we would try it for lunch.

Located adjacent to one of the main (free) public parking areas for Mooloolaba and just a block from the beach-front, Thai Lotus is very accessible and open for both lunch and dinner 7 days per week.

Offering both inside dining for about 35 covers or outside tables at a paved area open to the busy street, decor is definitely no-frills with laminex tables and minimal decoration, unlike many other Thai restaurants which boast a plethora of kitsch. Instead, large fridges containing various (non-alcoholic) drinks dominate the inside dining area.

An extensive menu offers the all usual suspects at reasonable prices with Veggie options around $10, two to three dollars more for Chicken, Beef or Pork, and $15.50 for Prawn or Seafood which is a good indication you can expect an imported product from Asia to be used in these dishes.

We ordered the Mixed entree ($7.50), always a good test of appetisers at any venue. It contained a Veg curry puff (home-made), coconut prawn, fish cake (not home-made but fine), spring roll (tasted home made) and fried wonton.

Beef Chilli and Basil Stir-Fry ($11.90) was a good size with lots of veg (fresh mushrooms, carrot, broccoli, cabbage, bok choy, zucchini, baby corn and onion) along with thin slices of beef. Vegies were fresh and crisp, beef was minimal but tender, and the sauce had a good kick of chilli but was very watery. A separate dish with an upside-down bowlful of somewhat overcooked rice was served alongside. At least this soaked up the sauce, and overall, for $11.90 one could do a lot worse.

However, the other dish of Vegetarian Pad Thai (with Tofu) at $8.90 was a real let-down. I was feeling like something semi-healthy but there had to be about 2/3rds of a cup of oil in this one dish. I don't know if the kitchen staff had an accident with the oil bottle but it was like a re-visit of the 'Exxon Valdez' disaster lying on the bottom of the plate! Damn shame as there were generous batons of tofu and a good handful of very fresh bean sprouts atop the goodly sized portion. I would have liked a wedge of lemon or lime (or at least a spritz) to at least cut the oil content but it was pretty hard going without a bib with these rice noodles!

At under $30 for lunch for 2 there was more than enough food but, unfortunately, it didn't really hit the mark. I was keen to try the Black Sticky Rice pudding for $2.50 as this is a great standby Thai dessert and for $2.50 - hey! could probably be the best value dessert on the Coast but after all that oil I couldn't face it.

Maybe we caught this place on a bad day or maybe we should just go there at night (when a different cook is on?).

Service was with a smile and cold water bottle and glasses quickly provided although I was a little peeved after we had ordered from the laminated menus and I had gone up to get a printed paper menu for later reference to find 'Lunch Specials' listed on this for $9.50. As they included what we had ordered (Beef Chilli Basil Stir Fry with rice), for $2.40 less than on the proffered menu I feel these lunch options should have been mentioned (as we were charged the full a-la-carte price upon leaving).

A small quibble, but as there was no 'take-away' printed on the paper menu and prices/other dishes available were the same as the laminated one on the counter there needs to be some consistency.

Aug 12, 2011

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful

4.2 Below Average

Food  5      Drinks  4      Ambience  4      Service  3      Value  5     

I have had to seriously adjust score after revisited this venue with a friend who was keen to try one of the $10 lunch specials available Mon-Thursday lunchtime. Our choice was the 'Flathead, Salad and Chips' as the waitstaff recommended this over the Chicken Schnitzel and other choice of the day.

There was an issue opening the till which required 10 minutes of (4) staff members time. 3 customers wanting to order lunch (after 1.30 pm) were kept waiting, and waiting, and waiting. Why could staff not have written the food order for the kitchen and got it underway whilst organising their (faulty) equipment? Common sense should prevail in circumstamces such as this or the (endangered) Monday lunchtime patron may move on to another place to dine (in hindsight we should have).

However, once the meal was finally ordered, the chef accommodated my personal request of a sauce other than bottled tartare to with our meals and thus we chose the garlic aioli (nice) and sweet chilli sauce.

Flathead was obviously cooked from a frozen, imported product and did not resemble any fillet of flathead I have ever caught/seen or purchased, being perfectly formed and about a 1/3 of the size of a small fillet. 2 of these were offered for the $10 special alongside some chopped salad greens (with That awful salad dressing again, note to self, please request left off!) and some (thankfully) crispy chips. I scored a lone cherry tomato on my salad offering whilst my dining partner was not so lucky.

Disappointing? Certainly. Staff were also uniformly uninformed, obviously new and with no knowledge of the menu they were selling/serving (or any obvious food knowledge either). Kitchen staff pro-active but cooking to a formula/budget from what we could see going out to the few other tables.

Would I return? Highly improbable, based on previous experiences. No wonder this venue is lacking trade.

My previous review read: I enjoyed a very nicely cooked and tender 200 gram 'Graziers Rump' steak here for my lunch, served with accompanying sauce and salad whilst my dining companion chose the 'Fish of the Day' from their 'Seniors Menu' which was beer battered Barramundi. Two really decent fillets were moist and very nicely cooked in fresh oil, my friend really enjoyed it and I had a struggle convincing him to part with some (for research purposes only of course).

The bistro also offers Sunday-Thursday $10 lunch specials of Chicken Schnitzel, Rump steak, Whiting fillet or Salt and Pepper squid all served with chips and salad. Additionally when we visited, a '2 for Tuesday deal' was offered, Buy a meal and receive a second meal free (free meal to be same or lesser price).

In the 'Weekender' available around the Coast on Fridays you can sometimes find 'Great Food Great Value' coupons which offer additional dining savings here and but I'm afraid this is why the service score is low.

Mum went here with a friend for lunch with a 'Buy 1 get 1 free Seniors Meal coupon' based on my friends fish experience yet was coerced into purchasing 2 x $10 lunch specials rather than the nicer (and marginally more expensive) seniors meals, one of which she would have received gratis and therefore spent only around $15 for 2 meals which they would have really enjoyed. So 'minus points' and 'shame on you' to the male staffer corralling two little old ladies!

Service was pretty pedestrian on our visit anyway and the view of the footpath, road and busy traffic roaring past beyond along the Esplanade into Aerodrome Road won't thrill those looking for ambience but hey, sometimes you get what you pay for.

Aug 09, 2011