Australian seafood is put firmly in the spotlight at this clever Dunsborough diner, loved by locals and visitors alike.
Australian restaurants are now required to list seafood’s origins – but this family-run bistro has always done it as a point of pride, not regulation. Shark Bay Scallops are executed with precision, all sweet and firm, with buttery grits below and vibrant pickled jalapeños atop. Crab also hailing from the Coral Coast sees the picked meat shaped into a puck with potato, fried golden and sweet, complemented by a shellfish-imbued bisque, where you can taste the layers of caramelised fennel, brandy and cream. A fillet of local dhufish is dressed with a yuzu butter sauce and coaxed into peak flavour with just enough time on the grill. It’s joined on the plate by charred onigiri and tender asparagus, which do a prime job in letting the ocean prize do most of the talking, while still being interesting accompaniments. The mostly Australian wine list also does service to the region. Decor may skew casual, but with a courtyard lined by sweetpea flowers and service delivered with holiday town friendliness, it still feels special. Serving great local seafood isn’t just a regulation here; it’s held to a high standard and showcased accordingly.