Bridge's Restaurant
This super-slick restaurant-bar inside the Ambassador Hotel has got soul. Not
only is it quite comfortable (cosy booths and overstuffed couches), but it also
showcases live jazz. The gourmet fusion menu includes fancy finger food like
camembert-and-prosciutto–stuffed Moreton Bay bugs, juicy steaks and vegetarian
options. The budget conscious should stop by at lunch. The same mains are served for
about half the price and you can also order off the $7 home-style lunch menu (think
meatloaf, corned beef and Indian chicken).
Read more about Bridge's Restaurant
Déjà Vue
This perennial favourite recently moved to a gorgeous hilltop
location at the swanky Water's Edge Resort. In an airy Polynesian style-thatched
building with a romantic (and nearly always full) patio overlooking an infinity
pool, the new Déjà Vue is cooler than ever. The menu promises modern interpretations
of Thai, Mediterranean, Indian and others, and the execution and presentation is
faultless. The warm Indian lamb rubbed in dry spices is
sensational.
Read more about Déjà Vue
Village Deli
Our favourite deli in Airlie serves delicious overstuffed
sandwiches, mixed salads, fabulous coffee (and equally great chai) and some
kick-arse light meals (like perfectly grilled barramundi that tastes beyond
heavenly) in casual alfresco (but covered) café environs. Come early as the place is
popular enough to run out of many options early on - everything is freshly made each
day. Takeaway provisions and picnic boxes are a speciality.
Read more about Village Deli