HAT’S THE WAY

Order

By TEAGAN WITHEROW

Locals know that culinary excellence is not hard to come by on the Coast – but now there are awards to prove it. Yes, that’s right, the experts at Australian Good Food Guides have spoken, revealing a slew of eateries that have been crowned with a 2023 Chef Hat award. This means a handful of restaurants have been awarded for their consistent culinary excellence, based solely on the food itself. Eager to see who won? Let’s dig right in (excuse the pun).

Sum Yung Guys

Where all your pan-Asian foodie dreams come true – Sum Yung Guys is known for their exceptional mix of Thai, Vietnamese, Chinese, and Korean flavours. The dishes are cooked up and served by celebrity chef, Matt Sinclair, his three mates, and the talented team of staff.

Locale

Drawing heavily on Italian tradition, Locale is all about providing the freshest and most delectable eats with a menu filled with everything from handmade pasta and antipasti to desserts to die for! You certainly won’t be leaving here hungry.

ALBA by Kuruvita

Renowned for embodying the essence of fine food, ALBA by Kuruvita is Noosa’s latest food destination. It’s here where you’ll find global flavours along with Sri Lankan spices, seasonal produce, and local seafood to please.

Sails Beach Restaurant and Bar

An oldie, but a goldie – Sails Beach Restaurant and Bar has been around since 1994 and has never failed to impress. Executive Chef, Paul Leete, is a pro at the creative fusion of modern Australian cuisine – so you can expect top-tier barramundi, Moreton Bay bug, and amazing prawns.

Noosa Waterfront Restaurant

It’s impossible to leave here disappointed! Noosa Waterfront Restaurant is one of the finest dining locations on the Sunshine Coast (and for good reason). Run by highly experienced restaurateur, Andrea Ravezzani, the food here is tantalising with fresh ingredients and flavour to boot.

Noosa Beach House

Boasting contemporary coastal dining, Noosa Beach House is well deserving of a Chef Hat’s and here’s why; whole butterflied lobster, French Oscietre caviar, and freshly opened appellation oysters – need we say more?

Sumi Open Kitchen

Known for their grilled line-caught mackerel which is marinated in sakelees and miso, simmered with turnip and crab sauce, and served with pickled fennel and yuzu – Sumi Open Kitchen is a rare find. After all, it’s not every day you get to enjoy Japanese kappo charcoal grill dining.

Rickys River Bar and Restaurant

The infamous Rickys Noosa has also made the cut for a 2023 Chef Hat. If you haven’t yet experienced a meal in this legendary venue, then you haven’t lived. Be sure to order the spanner crab spaghettini and enjoy the passionfruit souffle if you’re a sweet tooth!

Bask

Just outside of Noosa in the humble town of Eumundi is where you’ll find the perfect spot to embark on a culinary adventure – think salted cod croquettes followed by roasted pork loin, and finish up with olive oil cake, marmalade, and whipped cream!