5 OF THE BEST
RUNAWAY BAY You don’t have to runaway too far to find some great eating options in this emerging suburban hub
GOTHAM GRILL AND ROOFTOP BAR
6 BAYVIEW ST
Destination venue Gotham Grill and Rooftop is hoping its opening in Runaway Bay earlier this year will entice other hospitality heavyweights to open restaurants nearby, creating a dining precinct. “Generally you open a nice restaurant, other restaurateurs want to be a part of that,” Gotham owner Daniel Ridgeway says. “I think within about three to four years we’ll see a restaurant hub from Gotham opening where it did.” The venue has two separate restaurants, depending if you’re after opulence or informality. Gotham Grill is modelled on a sophisticated steakhouse setting, while Gotham Rooftop is a relaxed outdoor option for laid-back meals and drinks. “The grill is 45 seats and has an elegant feel and a great steak selection,” Daniel says. “The rooftop is more casual. The menu has things like house-made pizza and pasta. Two different price points, two different settings — you want to have that
SUBSTANCE ESPRESSO SHOP 2, 10/12 LAE DRIVE
Owners Leah and Jareth Smith have been overwhelmed with local support for their venture on the edge of Runaway Bay Shopping Centre, now open seven days a week for breakfast and brunch. “The apple and cherry buttermilk pancakes, topped with crumble, vanilla-bean mascarpone and spiced maple syrup is one of the favourites,” Leah says. The coffee is a blend from Yatala roasters Open House with a changing selection of single origin beans for the adventurous.
CAFFENE BREAK 8 BAYVIEW STREET
Yes, they know that’s not how you spell caffeine but everything else about the coffee is exactly right. What started as a cafe is now open at nights when it becomes Caffene Bar. Owner Greg Hill says there were always plans to trade at night and the time is right. You can still get your quality breakfast/brunch essentials until 2pm and return at night for drinks with a fully stocked bar specialising in gin, served with jaffles and cheese platters for the peckish.
CAFE 63 300 OXLEY DRIVE
Set amid the blooms and foliage of the Ross Evans Garden Centre, Cafe 63 offers a tranquil alfresco setting for breakfast or lunch. The menu is extensive – the “extras” alone take some reading, allowing diners to create their own customised meals from the kitchen stores – and it’s fully licensed. Canny locals know this is the place for all-day breakfasts, cafe-style lunches or simply a pit stop while browsing the greenery. The ample parking is stress-free.
CAN THO KITCHEN 5/465 OXLEY DRIVE
Husband and wife team Vien and Thao Nguyen came to Australia with their parents as refugees in the 1980s, growing up in restaurants amid the wonderful flavours of their homeland. “The recipes come straight from my mum, her parents and grandparents,” Thao says. “Everything is cooked fresh and served on share plates, just as we do in our homes.” The good news: Vien and Thao are scouting for their next venue. They’re open to any suggestions.