What was meant to be a short weekend trip to a music festival turned into more of a culinary expedition and our first stop was The Boathouse at Palm Beach. We had all heard much about it but never been – so anticipation was high! It is beautifully located on the water, inside Governor Phillip Park, about an hour drive north of Sydney. As expected, there was a bit of a queue to order, but then it took even longer to get a nice table outside and for our food to actually arrive. There was a bit of h-anger happening by the end of it, so I do recommend going during the week if you can! (We went on a Friday).
- What we ate:
The seafood is really the main attraction here – both Britton sisters made the excellent choice of having the Local beer battered flathead with house made tartare and fresh lemon ($28). Funnily enough it arrived in a dim sum basket! The portion was generous, and the fish and tartare impeccably fresh. G decided on the Steak sandwich with grilled haloumi, fresh tomato, mixed leaves and chips ($24) – give the guy some food! – which, I hear, was deeply satisfying. I had my heart set on the Salt & Pepper Squid but alas, they had run out by the time we ordered. Sad face, but definitely trying it next time. I had the kingfish, interestingly paired with dried chickpeas and watermelon, as well as some mint. Fresh, refreshing and enjoyable.
I really recommend the Boathouse as a day-trip from Sydney or the Central Coast. It’s so beautiful, especially on a perfect blue sky day like the one we had. We could have sat there the entire afternoon, lapping up the view and listening to the gentle waves!
[Oh and don’t forget to pick up some yummy ice blocks on your way out!]
The Boathouse
Barrenjoey Boathouse, Governor Phillip Park
Palm Beach, NSW 2108
http://www.theboathousepb.com.au/
