A “intimate and welcoming” Mediterranean-themed wine bar has opened near Mooloolaba Beach.
Casita is the creation of local Kate Gear and her husband, former New Zealand rugby star Hosea Gear.
The bar boasts curved arches and lime-washed walls that are reminiscent of Spanish villas, along with stylish plates of food, cocktails and wines sourced from the vineyards of Spain, Italy and France.
Mrs Gear said they created Casita, which means ‘small house’ in Spanish, after living in Europe.
“We lived on the Mediterranean in France and spent our weekends in Spain, when Hosea was playing international rugby,” she said.
“We fell in love with the relaxed tapas and wine bars dotted around.
“I wanted to bring that European flavour and laidback vibe to Mooloolaba, to share with everyone the experiences we loved so much.
“We consulted with a renowned local chef to design the perfect small plate and tapas menu.
“We have travelled extensively, sampling wines from vineyards around the world to curate the perfect wine list.
“And we worked together to create the perfect European villa-inspired venue that is intimate, welcoming and relaxed.
“So now we want to welcome you into our little house: welcome to Casita.”
Casita features a range of bites such as smoked salmon crostini, serrano sliders, white anchovies, sweet tartlets with lemon mascarpone cream, fresh berries and edible flowers.
The bar also has Coffin Bay oysters served with balsamic vinegar and shallots, charcuterie boards with jamon serrano and parmigiano reggiano aged 24 months, and cheese plates with truffle honey and triple cream brie.
The wine list includes bubbles, whites, reds, pink and amber from France, Italy, Spain, Australia and New Zealand.
Signature cocktails include Amalfi Breeze with gin, limoncello and aquafaba; Illy Expresso Martini made with genuine Illy coffee; French Kiss with vodka, peach liqueur and guava; or try the Spicy Mangorita, made with mango juice, agave and fresh jalapeno.
Casita Wine Bar is at 3/26 River Esplanade, Mooloolaba. It is open Wednesday to Saturday, 2pm to 10pm, and Sunday, 1pm to 9pm
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