Fusion food lands on Maggie Island

COOKING up a storm on Magnetic Island has been a dream come true for foodie duo Daniel Blakeman and Jennifer Lee.

Their new restaurant, Saltwater Magnetic Island, is a fusion of modern Australian cuisine and Asian flavours.

The restaurant has breathed new life into the previous Thai Again location in Sooning St at Nelly Bay.

Last Friday’s opening of the new joint venture is three years in the making with the duo originally operating a menu out of The Bikini Tree Cafe and Restaurant.

Mr Blakeman, the head chef, developed his cooking passion and technique in award-winning Sydney restaurant Rockpool before joining a fine dining resort in the Bahamas.

The couple moved to the island four years ago with a dream to share their cooking style with the region. Ms Lee, the manager, said they could not imagine anywhere better than Magnetic Island to open their first restaurant.

“We were drawn to Magnetic Island for its natural beauty and proximity to Townsville and the great community spirit,” she said.

The restaurant refurbishment completely stripped the previous shop and has been designed with a modern coastal theme and a tropical outdoor area.

The food combines fine dining dishes with a smart casual culture and will be open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The grand opening was well received by the island with a full house celebrating the milestone with a large pan of paella.

Ms Lee said the 60-seat restaurant was the result of hard work and dedication.

“We have invested all our heart and soul and a substantial amount of money and we feel excited to see our vision come together,” she said.

Nelly Bay local Halina Hatcher was at the grand opening on Friday night and said the event was a “delight”.