The team behind a beloved hinterland tapas restaurant has relocated and opened a new European-inspired share-plate restaurant and cocktail lounge.
John McMaster and Jaey Powell closed Tapas 10 at Mapleton in March, but this week officially opened AnRvi at Maleny.
After four-and-a-half successful years running Tapas 10, the duo decided it was time for a change.
“We’d kind of outgrown the space so we were looking for an opportunity for something bigger, then the place in Maleny became available,” Mr Powell said.
“We jumped on the opportunity to rebrand and relocate.”
The name AnRvi (pronounced “an-ah-vee”) is a play on the word ‘anavi’, which means ‘to be kind to people’.
“That’s how it should be. We love the new name and that’s how we want it to be,” a post announcing the restaurant’s name earlier this month said.
The theme of kindness and togetherness is also central to the dining experience.
“All throughout Europe the trend is share plates,” Mr Powell said.
“Our chef is French and he says it’s all the rage. We’re not going to focus primarily on tapas, we’re focusing on share plates.”
That new chef is Patrick Landelle, formerly from Bar Deco in Yandina.
“He’s been working with his grandmother from the age of 15,” Mr Powell said.
“He’s got something like 30 years of experience and he’s worked all over the world.”
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The menu blends European and Australian cuisine with dishes such as pan-fried Coffin Bay scallops, Humpy Doo barramundi, slow-cooked leg of lamb, signature duck liver pate, filo-wrapped brie croquette and truffle-kissed wagyu carpaccio. It also includes about half a dozen vegan dishes.
“The menu is really diverse and caters for every everyone,” Mr Powell said.
The wine list has been designed by Maleny’s The Purple Palate, which worked with one of AnRvi’s maitre d’s to come up with options to complement the food.
The new restaurant occupies a former bank building on Maleny’s main street that was previously home to Two Peas Bistro and Cafe and, before that, the Maple and Sage vegan bakery.
The venue spans two levels, with downstairs for dining and upstairs a new cocktail lounge.
“That’s more focused on the locals that just want to swing by, meet up with a friend and have a drink after they’re finished working in town,” Mr Powell said.
A post earlier this month gave diners a taste of what to expect from the restaurant.
“AnRvi will carry forward John’s philosophy – a commitment to excellence in service and sensational food – ensuring every guest enjoys a truly memorable dining experience,” it said.
“As well we welcome our new chef Patrick, we are excited about his vision and passion showcasing his amazing menu.”
AnRvi is at 13 Maple Street, Maleny, and open Thursday to Sunday from noon to 9pm. Phone 5343 6244 to book.
