European taste at new rooftop bar
THE new head chef at the Toowoomba CBD’s upcoming rooftop bar has hinted at the style of food the venue will serve when it opens in October.
Toowoomba-born chef Chris Mann, who is charged with delivering George Banks owner Phil Coorey’s vision of timeless elegance, said he was relishing the chance to create something new for the city.
“This position came up and I just had to jump on it,” he said.
“I want to have the opportunity to get in here and use local product from Toowoomba and the Darling Downs.
“It’s been pretty hectic, to be fair, pretty full on, but I’m just excited to get everything together and get this place running.”
Mr Mann, who was working at Seasons of Ruthven earlier this year before joining the management team for George Banks, said the menu would have a strong influence from southern Europe.
“There will be a strong influence of Mediterranean cuisine and also a good focus on product from around the region,” he said.
“I’ve been in touch with a few local farmers, getting supply direct from them.
“You can expect to see that in the plating - we’re looking at that refined plating and something a little different.
“We’ve got a few ingredients on there that are classic and English ’40s style stuff.”
Shared platters would also play a role for customers, with Mr Mann hoping it would encourage people to return after their first visit.
“People can expect to see some small plates at George Banks - we’re focusing at some shared stuff, and looking at that mid-range plates,” he said.
“It’s all about the sharing, so you can eat as much or as little as you want, and come back and have a different experience every time.”