Dining | The Boat House Balmoral
Pip and Andrew Goldsmith opened their second ‘Boathouse’ restaurant in March of 2013. The first of the collection being the stunning venue located at Palm Beach on Sydney’s beautiful Northern Beaches. Their other claim for fame in that neck of the woods is the equally popular restaurant aptly named ‘Moby Dicks’ (Whale Beach), yet another breezy summer space with picturesque views.
With the long awaited summer sun finally peaking through the clouds we took this as an opportunity to test out the most recent addition to the Goldsmith family. Upon entering the ideal Balmoral location, perfectly positioned over the rippling tide, it come as no surprise that the pair not only have a flair for flavor but also interior design (Pip) and landscaping (Andrew). The seaside theme runs throughout with white wash furniture, lobster pots, pelican table numbers and even a functional boat hire business (it doesn’t get much more real than this). The space it light, open and is further brought to life with a vast array of colorful flowers and fresh fruit, which can be purchased at the entrance.
Serving up modern Australian cuisine, Executive chef Tom Eadie crafts the sublime menu from nothing but the freshest local produce. The vibe here is relaxed and their no reservation policy means that while you are waiting for a table, you have time to stare at the large chalkboard menu long enough to be able to narrow down your choice. While the menu is not extensive, watching the friendly waiters walk out with mouth-watering plates, choosing your dish is a challenge.
The serves are large, especially the coastal signature dish, Fish and Chips (Battered flathead with thick cut chips, $28) and at lunch prices start at $16 (specialty salad with tomato, avocado, quinoa, seeds, sprouts and a dressing served on the side). The Boathouse beef burger ($26) is another popular dish. Much like a number of other options at The Boathouse, the mouth-watering burger arrives on a large breadboard and is accompanied by thick chips and a homemade tomato tapenade. Boasting a fresh bun, delicious beef patty, shredded beetroot, bacon, cheese and caramelized onion, this dish is almost impossible to get your mouth around.
Priding itself on great coffee, The Boathouse serves up its own unique blend, which has been carefully crafted by the team’s in-house baristas. We highly recommend enjoying a drop of their liquid gold along side one of the brightly coloured macarons that are impossible to resist while they make yes at you over the counter. However, if you require something a little harder than a latte and an French meringue, rest assured the venue is licensed and they offer a selection of wines and beers, thus making The Boat House at Balmoral the perfect place to kick back, relax and embrace the summer sun.
By Bec Clark
Photos: Mareete Mcguinn
The Boathouse is also open for breakfast and can be booked private event.
The Balmoral Boathouse
2 The Esplanade, Balmoral Beach
(02) 9969 4412
