Four Sunshine Coast restaurants have scooped major hospitality awards at a state and regional level.
Restaurant & Catering Australia (R&CA) Hostplus Awards for Excellence Queensland and Northern Territory winners were announced last month at a gala event on the Gold Coast.
The Tamarind – Spicers Tamarind Retreat, Maleny won best Asian Restaurant SEQ; meanwhile The Long Apron – Spicers Clovelly Estate, Montville was awarded best French Restaurant SEQ.
Two Palmwoods restaurants were also recognised: Ricks Garage Bar & Diner was named best family dining SEQ, and ethos at Alsahwa Estate was crowned the Sunshine Coast’s best new restaurant just one year after opening.
Ethos at Alsahwa Estate was up against finalists Cibaria Noosa; Sardo Noosa and Fish House Steak and Grill, Mooloolaba in the Sunshine Coast category.
The R&CA are the hospitality industry’s leading awards program, with venues judged by independent experts against rigorous criteria including food, service and presentation.
Category winners automatically progress to the national awards for excellence later this year.
R&CA national president John Hart OAM said the winners represented the highest standard of hospitality across the two regions.
“These awards are judged in the venue, on the plate and on the floor,” he said.
“Every winner announced tonight has been assessed by independent judges against rigorous criteria and each one represents the very best of our industry.”
Founder Alsahwa Estate Jo Walker said: “This award belongs to every person who has helped bring Alsahwa to life”.
Ethos showcases a modern Mediterranean-inspired menu built around spray-free produce harvested on the estate alongside ingredients sourced from local growers.
“Our team has created so much more than a restaurant – they’ve created a place where people can gather, slow down and reconnect over beautiful spray-free food from our own farm or from local like-minded producers,” Ms Walker said.
“That’s always been our vision, so to have it recognised by our peers is incredibly special.”
Alsahwa Estate general manager Michelle Clark said the recognition reflected the care its team brings to every guest experience.
“From the moment someone arrives to the moment they leave, every detail is considered,” she said.
“It’s a credit to our kitchen team, front of house, growers and everyone who helps shape ethos.”
