Dishes and destinations

The Gourmet Traveller team share where they’ve been and what they’re eating.

Phuket, Thailand

There were beach swims, sunset cocktails and spa days aplenty during a blissful long weekend escape to Phuket. But it was lunch with this grand dame (45 years young) that claimed the prize for the most magical moment.

Joanna Hunkin, editor

Bannisters, Mollymook

The pet terrace suite and luxe poolside digs at this South Coast mainstay made my pup Mango feel like the prince he is. There’s plenty of outdoor dining areas, and the team offers honest and kind hospitality at every turn, whether you have two legs or four.

Jordan Kretchmer, writer

Stillwater, Launceston

Octopus is a favourite of Tasmanian diners but the octopus and udon noodle entrée from Stillwater is a fresh take on a traditional grilled offering. A rich dashi stock, spiked with chilli and Sichuan pepper gives a strong slick of flavour to chunks of octopus and slippery noodles. 2 Bridge Rd, Launceston, Tas

Alix Davis, acting deputy editor

Anekawa, Gold Coast

It may seem counterintuitive to dunk your delightfully crisp octopus beignet in an accompanying dashi as instructed, but do it anyway. Follow up with a dab into spicy shichimi togarashi and it will all make delicious sense. Railway St, Mudgeeraba, Qld

Fiona Donnelly, Qld state editor

Alberto’s Lounge, Sydney

Catching up with dear friends, the brief was for thrilling cosiness. A 1.45pm seating in this subterranean haven served up the goods. We drank vermentino, dined on the divine pasta e ceci, and scratched way beyond the surface. Because well-executed pasta dishes tend to have that effect. Alberta St, Sydney, NSW

Anna McCooe, acting deputy editor