Foodie musts in the Byron Hinterland

ONE lunch or dinner at acclaimed chef Katrina Kanetani’s restaurant Town, in Bangalow, is a must if you’re feeling a little fancy.

I enjoyed a degustation course with matching wines. The plump snapper fillet submerged in ginger and shallots was a highlight along with the cream brulee with caramel caviar and blood plum sorbet. Town has made the Australian Financial Review’s list of Australia’s Top 500 Restaurants this year.

But, if you want a slice of local life, head down to Bangalow Bowling Club’s Stockpot Kitchen for food, drinks, games and entertainment. The restaurant’s motto is “feeding the people”, and feed the people it does. For a hearty feed, I couldn’t go past a meat extravaganza platter, as its barbecue smokehouse is town-famous.

A hidden gem in an unassuming weatherboard cottage is Doma, in Federal. It is a relaxed place with incredible Japanese eats. Take a seat outside among free-ranging chickens and enjoy the fresh food, a colourful mix of contrasting textures: crunchy vegies, chewy seaweed and soft rice that make a feast for the eyes and the mouth. Its basic accommodation, its charm and the friendly owners create an awesome remote foodie service.

Also keep an eye out for macadamias, mangoes, avocados and other fruit and vegetable delights sold by farmers direct from roadside stalls.