The Sunshine Coast is renowned for its seafood, and organic and sustainable food culture, and what better way to immerse yourself in everything that encompasses than with a gastronomic, degustation adventure.
With the largest fishing port on the eastern seaboard and the fertile soil of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland within easy reach, it's little wonder that the Sunshine Coast is home to a myriad of award winning, Chef Hatted restaurants.
Many of these restaurants have spectacular locations and views to match their acclaimed menus, making them the destinations of choice for family celebrations or a relaxing day trip.
Here are eight of the best Sunshine Coast degustation menus that should be on your 'must taste' list.
Spice Bar, Mooloolaba
This acclaimed restaurant in the heart of Mooloolaba Esplanade serves up chic decor, ocean views, and some of the best Asian Fusion degustation menus on the Sunshine Coast. The Spice Bar also has banquet options range from 10 to 15 tastings. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten free degustation options are also available with prior notice.
The Tamarind, Spicers Tamarind
Nestled in the calming rainforest of Maleny in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, you'll find this award winning, Chef Hatted culinary treasure. Specialising in Modern Asian, The Tamarind combines sweet, sour and spicy flavours with fresh local produce to create innovative taste sensations. The five-course degustation menu is set, but can be adjusted for dietary requirements on request.
The Long Apron, Spicers Clovelly Estate
Experience ' joie de vivre' (joy of living) in the French-provincial inspired architecture of another of the Sunshine Coast's acclaimed and Chef Hatted restaurants. The Long Apron, in Montville, serves up European-inspired dishes in a decadent five-course tasting menu. Vegetarians will be pleased to learn the chef has also masterfully created a specialised menu for them, featuring the freshest, locally sourced produce.
Ebb Waterfront Dining and Cellar
Overlooking the Maroochy River and out towards the Pacific Ocean, Ebb Waterfront Dining serves sophisticated, upscale modern Australian dining that showcases the finest, locally produced ingredients. The six-course degustation offers the full range of culinary treats that are artfully plated. The menu can be adapted prior to dining to suit allergies and dietary requests.
Noosa Beach House - Peter Kuravita
Located on Noosa's iconic Hastings Street, Noosa Beach House's menu plays homage to the Sri Lankan roots of Chef and TV presenter Peter Kuravita. He has artfully balanced subtle Sri Lankan spices with the freshest local seafood, meat and produce to create a standout degustation menu. There is also a dedicated six-course vegetarian degustation offering.
Rickys River Bar and Restaurant
Located alongside Wasabi on Noosa River, Rickys stunning waterfront location and relaxed, chic atmosphere perfectly matches the complexity and originality of its menu. The six-course tasting menu features delicious, locally sourced seafood and meats, that are complimented by the freshest of produce from the restaurant's own property Maravista Farm in the Noosa Hinterland.
Spirit House Restaurant
Set in lush tropical gardens nestled around a tranquil pond, Spirit House is a Thai-inspired sanctuary, with a menu that is centered around a shared dining experience. Spirit House's setting and atmosphere matches its banquet menus for 'wow' factor, with rich, exotic textures and flavours. As its catch phrase says: "Spirit House has the food to tingle every taste bud." A vegetarian banquet is also available.