Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Ashton's Bar & Bistro

Excellent dining where you least expect it – on your doorstep. Discover the simple magic of Ashton’s Restaurant.

Perched comfortably on the banks of the river Dodder, Ashton’s is the restaurant you’ve been looking for combining a quality menu with excellent atmosphere and convenience you won’t believe, it almost seems to good to be true.

Just when you thought all of the finest eateries and restaurants lay at the far end of a long trek into town amid the jostle and traffic, you’ll find Ashton’s a breath of fresh air. On the Clonskeagh Road right in the heart of D6, it’s a mere stone’s throw away from some of the area’s most populated areas.

Convenience is the order of the day at Ashton’s, lying as it does within easy reach by many bus routes and the Luas, or maybe even within the reach of a leisurely stroll – which you’ll certainly feel the benefit of after sampling their wonderful menu! With the summer months closing in, there’s no better time than to eat local, especially since the food is so excellent.

When dining al fresco, you’ll find Ashton’s beautiful riverside garden to be one of the most unique, relaxing and ambient outdoor dining locations in the city.

Having recently refurbished their bistro and introducing a new seasonal menu, Ashton’s are a restaurant that is sure to be talked about for years to come, in fact, it’s already becoming quite the place to be seen among the city’s bold and beautiful, so you never know who you will be seeing propping up the bar or sitting down to dinner, unless you are there first.

Monday, August 30, 2010

Abbey Tavern - The Abbot Restaurant

the world famous 16th century Abbey Tavern, a Genuine tavern located in the lovely fishing village of Howth, with blazing turf fires, original stone walls flagged floors, gas lights and a real warm welcome.


Menu:
Home Made Soup of the Day.
Traditional Oak Smoked Salmon.
Caesar Salad.
Grilled Black Pudding.
Mussels Meuniere.
Chilled Galia Melon. With fresh berries.
Dublin Bay Prawn Salad. Succulent prawns served with traditional marie rose sauce.

Main Course:
Baked Darne of Fresh Salmon.
Grilled Fillet of Seabream.
Dublin Bay Prawns.
Grilled Sirloin Steak.
Crispy Roast Duckling.
Pan-Fried Supreme of Chicken.
Roast "Provencal" Vegetable and Goats Cheese Tart. With basil oil.
Selection of Fresh Market Vegetables.

Sunday, August 29, 2010

Harolds Cross Restaurant

Harolds Cross Greyhound Stadium is the perfect location for all types of outings whether it be business or pleasure with packages to suit every pocket and taste. The superb purpose built facility contains a 280 seated grandstand restaurant (providing both tote and bar service to your table while you dine), two corporate suites overlooking the track, luxurious bars and very popular ground floor carvery. With the renowned Dobbins team looking after all your catering needs a great night’s entertainment is guaranteed with 11 thrilling races each race night.

Saturday, August 28, 2010

Cactus Jacks

At Cactus jacks , they have simply set out to make a contemporary and appealing menu. dishes are exotic, but uncomplicated. they are passionate about what they are attempting to achieve with their menu.appreciative of trends relating to health-consciousness and general ingredient quality and freshness. Chefs are creating lighter, healthier versions of traditional Mexican and European cookery with the emphasis on fun and fresh ingredients, sometimes "borrowing" ingredients from other cultures.

The Silk Road Cafe from

The food is AMAZING and there are so many unique dishes. The portions are well sized. It is a tab bit on the expensive a white coffee costing €2.65 i would consider that to be very expensive for a take away. But the food is just lovely

Friday, August 27, 2010

Shelbourne Park Greyhound Stadium

Description:
Shelbourne Park the flagship greyhound stadium in the country is now widely considered as one of the leading night time entertainment venues in Dublin. Situated in the business district the stadium is the perfect location for all types of outings whether it be a corporate or work outing, family celebration or simply a night out with friends with packages to suit every pocket and taste. The superb purpose built venue contains a 450 seated grandstand restaurant ( with catering by the highly regarded Dobbins organisation) providing both tote and bar service to your table while you dine, seven corporate suites overlooking the track with buffet, dinner and cocktail menus available upon request (capacity 280), luxurious bars and very popular ground floor carvery offering superb value cuisine. The stadium exudes excitement, passion and atmosphere as some of the fastest greyhounds in training show their paces around this famous racing circuit. With 11 thrilling races each race night a great night’s entertainment is guaranteed.

SATURDAY NIGHT DINING:
The Saturday night dining experience at Shelbourne Park offers a thrilling night in luxurious surroundings with the Dobbins award winning team looking after all your catering requirements. With both bar and tote service to your table the most stressful party of the night will be trying to pick a few winners from the top class 12 race programme containing many of Ireland’s fastest greyhounds. A truly memorable night is guaranteed for you and your party whether it be an intimate table for two or a group as large as 800. This unique excitement makes Shelbourne Park the ideal venue for any social event be it your company, family, club or simply a night out with friends.

Thursday, August 26, 2010

Diep Le Shaker

the house where you'll get the flavour of real Thai cuisine in Ireland.Let your taste buds warm up to the real flavour of Thai cuisine in Ireland.

Awards:
Diep Le Shaker has enjoyed rave reviews and accolades over the year's most notably winning the "Gilbeys Gold Medal Award for Best Ethnic Restaurant in Ireland 2002". Diep Le Shaker is also proud to be the first Thai restaurant in Dublin to be awarded "The Mark of Quality for Excellence in Service and Cuisine" from the Royal Thai Government. Diep Le Shaker has also been nominated for the Best Asian Restaurant for the InDublin Awards 2010 thanks to the amazing support of their customers.

Food Style: Royal Thai Cuisine (No Monosodium Glutamate)

Capacity: 120 people.

Opening/Closing Times:
Monday to Thursday lunch 12pm - 2.30pm
Friday lunch- All day from 12pm Noon
Monday to Thursday dinner 6.00pm - 10.30pm
Saturday 6.00pm - 11.15pm

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

Neptune Palace

LOCATION:
Located in the heart of Circular Quay, an easy three minute walk from the Circular Quay train station and ferry terminal. Buses and taxis are also easy transportation options. Escalators to the restaurant doors. Parking is available at the Gold Fields House carpark.

PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA:
Striking fear into the hearts of sailors and ruling over marine life, Neptune was the Roman god of the seas. So you might imagine that his palace would be an underwater cave filled with fish, coral and the odd disobedient mermaid. You would be wrong. Neptune Palace is actually on dry land and elevated over our own Sydney Harbour. Spread over two floors and decked out in dark blue wallpaper, navy Baroque-style chairs and boasting a wall of fish tanks (as well as a private dining room and views over Circular Quay), it befits the ruler of the seas. Regal dispositions aside, it also has two other irresistible qualities: it is halal – a rare find by the sparkling waters of the harbour – and it boasts an extensive menu of authentic Chinese and Malaysian food.

FUNCTIONS:
Spread over two floors, with views of Circular Quay, our Restaurant combines the freshest Australian produce, an extensive modern and traditional menu and an award-winning wine list.
This versatile venue offers great function possibilities, be it for clients, colleagues or family and friends. Whether you are after an intimate lunch/dinner or perhaps a lively function for up to 200 people.

Sunday, August 22, 2010

Aperitivo

LOCATION
In the heart of Leichhardt’s Italian dining district on Norton Street.

PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA
While Sydney is well acquainted with the notion of tapas (Spanish share plates), one restaurant on Leichhardt’s Italian-dominated Norton Street is asking an important question: Why should Spaniards have all the fun? Aperitivo, which came into existence in July 2009, aims to introduce the local dining public to the notion of Italian “aperitivi” – share plates, Italian style. And my, my, what a delight it is! The menu comes in three parts – bar snacks (including oysters with champagne sabayon, meatballs in tomato sauce and arancini with herbs), apertivi (with flavour combinations like warm veal carpaccio in dijon mustard sauce on a bed of pickled horseradish and deep-fried ravioli filled with taleggio cheese on a pear and mint salad) and a list of seasonal mains which appear on the specials board. In a particularly delightful touch the menu also speaks fluent Italian – so instead of ordering roast potatoes with rosemary you’ll need to ask for patate novelle al rosmarino.

The innovative slant of the menu is extended to the decor which is modern, breezy and ever-so-slightly kitschy. Shiny red chairs – which might have lived another life as red patent heels – sit next to dark wood tables and stare up at raw brick and pale wood walls. Light bulbs, some raw others in chic black globes, hang low to keep them company, along with high tables, stools and an oval bar. The latter is particularly worthy of a mention – Aperitivo, after all, is named after the drink which begins the meal. The bar lives up to its moniker with a wine list that travels from Australia and New Zealand to Italy, and an extensive list of aperitifs, liqueurs, spirits and digestives. To this mix Aperitivo also brings a small selection of cocktails – from the Venetian Bellini to the Cuban Mojito.

Agnes Gajewska, September 2009

FUNCTIONS at APERITIVO'S PRIVATE DINING ROOM & BAR
Aperitivo's function room on the first floor is a perfect choice for birthdays, engagements, or any private or corporate event. The room has the latest audio/visual equipment so suits corporate events and product launches particularly film, fashion, media love this room.

Angelos on the Bay

LOCATION
On the waterfront in Prince Edward Park, Cabarita, 25 minutes west from the CBD.

DETAILS
A perfect destination for special occasions, this Federation style building on the shores of Sydney harbour is one of Sydney's best-kept secrets. Angelos on the Bay affords tranquil panoramic views the bay and nearby parklands and accross to the city.

Finished in Federation style with a wrap-around veranda, Angelos is very super child friendly and is the perfect spot for a family celebration. Sit back and enjoy your meal while the kids run around on the surrounding grass.

FOOD AND BEVERAGE
Seafood is the star feature of Angelos’ Italian inspired menu. Try the Grilled Scallops with hazelnut and coriander butter for entrée, the Blue-eyed Cod on crushed olive potatoes with peperonata for main course and leave room for the sinful White Chocolate Marquis with Raspberry Jelly and Berry Compote.
After your meal, take advantage of Angelos' surrounding parklands and meander along the shores of Sydney’s beautiful harbour.

FUNCTIONS
Angelos is great for corporate luncheons or dinners, receptions, birthday parties or anniversaries, with plenty of parking and set menus available from $60.00 per person.

PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA
The Angelos experience begins with the journey there. First the drive down Phillips Street in Cabarita, a luxuriously wide avenue dotted with fountains and pretty white townhouses. Parking is ample and free for three hours. Then a stroll through the greenery of Prince Edward Park until a homely looking restaurant appears between the trees. Two steps through the front door and you are greeted by the hospitable siblings who run Angelos on the Bay – Marie and Guy Piccin. Of Italian descent, these two have been in business for 21 years due to their acute ability to cater to the needs of their client base. They have kept the prices down, the value up, and their neighbourhood customers happy.

Chef Suna McKay has also done her bit to keep the patrons regular. A Concord local, she worked under Serge Dansereau at Kables Restaurant and held executive positions at the Boulevard and Westbury hotels. But the real pull of Angelos is the setting, with water views on one side and park views on the other, one cannot help but relax into the surroundings and linger over the food and wine. Floor to ceiling windows make the most of the location, and a spacious veranda affords alfresco dining in fine weather. The ultimate function location, Angelos combines a warm neighbourhood restaurant with stunning Sydney surrounds and the result is a winner.

Saturday, August 21, 2010

Alio Restaurant

LOCATION
Alio is located in Baptist Steet, near corner of Crown and Cleveland Street, Surry Hills.

PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA
The Surry Hills dining scene is fast-moving and competitive, and somehow in the bustle Alio has escaped the limelight. It’s a shame, because early in the week the restaurant could do with a few more populated tables to liven up the atmosphere. Muted browns and beiges dominate the room, with vibrant red feature walls adding some pep. Later in the week the restaurant hums with happy tables enjoying rustic southern Italian dishes, sharing entrees of grilled sardines on sourdough with bagna cauda and an insalata of fresh herbs.

Alio makes pasta and risotto so good it appeals to more than just the vegetarians. Try the fresh ravioli of roasted pumpkin, ricotta and walnuts with sage butter, or the perfectly cooked risotto which is made to order, just as risotto should be. Alternatively, step away from the a la carte menu and try the $55 degustation menu – well-judged portion sizes mean you will be teetering on the edge of full by the last dish. The degustation menu changes daily, allowing the chef to play with seasonal flavours and introduce regulars to new dishes. Alio is BYO and also offers good wines by the glass such as the NV Jansz Cuvee Brut from Tasmania.

January 2007

DETAILS
Alio Restaurant owner Tracey Hughes describes Alio as 'a restaurant born from passion'.
Brother and sister team, Ashley and Tracey Hughes serve up clean, fresh flavours influenced by Southern Italy. Considering the work history of the partners involved, it is not surprising that they share a similar philosophy, from ambience, attention to detail, service, through to the style of the menu.General Manager Tracey Hughes - Tracey, it seems, has hospitality in her blood. Working in her aunt's restaurant, Che Rene, she knew at sixteen that she wanted to open her own restaurant. After completing a Diploma at the Blue Mountains Hotel Management School, further experience was gained at the Ritz Carlton Sydney. Moving to London, Tracey spent two years at the River Cafe before being recruited by boutique hoteliers Tim and Kit Kemp as Restaurant Manager for their new Knightsbridge property Min's. Wine experience at Che in St James London followed suit. After two openings, Tracey thought it time to concentrate closer to home, returning to Australia to open Alio.

FOOD & BEVERAGE
Alio offers a diverse selection of predominantly Southern Italian influenced dishes and is perfect for a slow relaxing dinner or a corporate function. Head Chef Ashley Hughes, Tracey's partner at Alio and the man in charge of firing up the stoves is her brother Ashley. Sydney born and educated, Ashley ran the fish section alongside Greg Doyle and Steven Hodges at The Pier, Rose Bay. Then came the opportunity to work with Janni Karitsis with the opening of Bennelong Restaurant. Heading up the pastry section, Ashley evolved his techniques for creating desserts. Travelling to London, he joined the team at the revolutionary River Cafe. During the years spent in the Italian styled kitchen, Ashley developed 'a cooking style simplistic but very flexible, with the menu changing twice daily, availability and creative ability were paramount. Cooking simple, fresh food with the best produce is how I cook," he says. Ashley then travelled to Europe, working throughout Italy and Switzerland, before being asked to assist Danish Chef Rasmus Rasmusen lifting the culinary profile at Cap Horn, Copenhagen, as Assistant Chef.

FUNCTIONS
Alio’s function packages are designed according to individual requirements and budget.
Capacity – 110 maximum for sit down dinner; 250 for stand up canapé and drinks party. All business equipment needs can be organised by Alio (hire charges apply).

EVENT CATERING
Alio has ventured into the world of catering and event management and is able to assist with events both big and small. On-site or off. Price on application.

Aki's Indian Restaurant

LOCATION
The first in a line of restaurants on Woolloomooloo Wharf 5 minutes from the CBD. Water taxi service available from Circular Quay.

PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA
Woolloomooloo is an area synonymous with refined, sophisticated dining – a fact faithfully confirmed by the first venue on its famed waterside strip. Residing luxuriously in a heritage building on finger wharf, Aki’s Indian Restaurant looks out onto the gently lapping water of the bay. However, arresting as the sight may be from the alfresco tables (especially at dusk); the moody interior of the restaurant is even more alluring – particularly for anybody bent on romance. High ceilings and exposed wood beams speak of heritage and are beautifully complemented by exotically-patterned silver wallpaper, brown leather banquettes and chairs, white-set tables, modern light fittings and an open kitchen.

You’ll not long be distracted by the decor however, once you have seen the menu. Influenced by his mother’s kitchen in Madras, as well as other food regions of India, head chef Kumar Mahadevan has created a stellar list of dishes which although leaning towards seafood (unsurprising considering the location) also offer a broad vegetarian and meat variety. A good way to start is with the signature crab podimas with iddiappam (blue swimmer crab tossed with black mustard seeds, fresh tomatoes and ginger served on Tamil brown rice string hoppers with a coconut broth). After this light introduction, you can follow with a main like the mild duck cooked in three extractions of coconut milk, stewed and lightly spiced with cloves and green chilli, or the more potent slow-cooked goat prepared with tomatoes, ginger, cardamom, garlic, mace and nutmeg. The dessert menu, which in points deviates from traditional Indian desserts with choices like chocolate naan with fresh strawberries, also offers classic dishes like kulfi and ras malai. On the drinks side, Aki’s presents an extensive wine list (by the glass and bottle), as well as a good selection of spirits and original and re-invented cocktails.

Agnes Gajewska, August 2009

DETAILS
Balmy summer nights are perfect for enjoying the exotic atmosphere of Aki’s. Expect the unexpected. First-class modern Indian food, Aki’s features delicate light dishes, fresh with aromatic spices that blend comfortably with the more traditional favourites on the menu devised by Head Chef and Owner Kumar Mahadevan.
Kumar has raised the bar on Indian food in Australia with his contemporary take on the traditional menus of Indian restaurants. The old favourites are still there and better than ever, but there are a number of alternative dishes on offer that are light and fresh yet still bursting with Indian spices and flavour. Aki’s is the younger sibling to the well-established sister restaurant Abhi’s in North Strathfield.

UPSTAIRS PRIVATE ROOM AND LOUNGE
Aki’s also features a sophisticated lounge bar upstairs and the cocktail menu has a signature selection including the Indian mule, Delhi darbar, Old Raj and Tamarindia.

Thursday, August 19, 2010

3 Weeds Hotel

LOCATION
Rozelle is an inner west suburb 15 minutes from the CBD, close to Balmain.

PROFILED BY DEGROOTS MEDIA
3 Weeds Hotel, which started putting beers in hands and (not entirely coincidentally) smiles on faces in 1881, has seen its fair share of transitions. It spent its youth in a rapidly-expanding Sydney and a few wild years as a live music joint hosting the likes of AC/DC. These days if you venture down Evans Street into the shy-looking establishment you’ll find a pub with loads of style and just a touch of comfort-yielding spunk. Once inside you can choose from a number of distinctive areas – a relaxed front bar, rustic back bar and bistro, leather-clad and library-esque wine bar, mod-chic lounge and chirpy “Living Room”. But the foodie crowds head straight for the back of the hotel where The Restaurant sits serenely with soft creams and beiges, embroided cushions, comfortable banquets and muted lighting somehow striking a balance between refinement and relaxation.

However, regardless of how stylish, comfortable or intimate The Restaurant may be, this is not what keeps the crowds coming back. Even the wine list studded with offerings from France, the USA, New Zealand and some of Australia’s finest vineyards can’t take the credit. This restaurant draws the crowds for one very good reason – its inventive modern Australian cuisine. Head chef Leigh McDivitt who took over from John Evans earlier in the year presides over a seasonal menu that features entrees like ceviche of kingfish with chilli and lime dressing and horseradish ice-cream and mains like black Angus fillet with Jerusalem artichoke puree, roasted eschalots and a confit king brown and shimiji mushrooms, and (for the vegetarians) an open mushroom lasagne with baby vegetables and porcini veloute. A recently-introduced Sunday lunch which opens up the a la carte menu from 12pm for relaxed Sunday noshing, has also struck a note with restaurant-addicted foodies.

Agnes Gajewska, November 2009

FOOD AND BEVERAGE
Head chef Leigh McDivitt offers an exceptional modern menu utilising the best seasonal produce offering a concise selection with an emphasis on lightness and intensity of flavour. The restaurant is open for dinner Tuesday to Saturday from 6pm until late.

FUNCTIONS
The perfect venue for a party, function, corporate event or launch, The 3 Weeds has a variety of options. The Lounge, the Wine Bar, and areas in The Restaurant and Back Bar may be reserved and can cater for between 20 to 150 guests with canapes, finger food or platters available for your function.

WINE BAR
The Wine Bar is a traditional Bar with rich curtains, leather chairs, booth seating and a pressed metal ceiling. It has its own bar and is perfectly suited to a quiet drink, a tasty meal or a private party for up to 100 guests.

25th Floor Restaurant

LOCATION
The 25th Floor Restaurant is located in the Bayview Boulevard Hotel on William Street, just a few blocks from Hyde Park and minutes from the centre of Sydney CBD.

PROFILE
Famed for ole blue eyes Frank Sinatra’s stay back in the seventies, the unassuming Bayview Boulevard is just a quick stroll up William Street – or a not-so-quick one if you take in the supercar dealerships in the area. From the outside it looks like just another office building (albeit one with a very nice marble foyer), but travel 25 floors up and your perception will change.

This is the domain of 25th Floor Restaurant and Bar where panoramic Sydney views mix with a modern Australian menu. Here the likes of duck pate with toasted brioche and spicy Tamarillo chutney and goat’s cheese, leek and mushroom tart pull corporate types and city visitors in, while a Bayview seafood platter, which spills over with the fruit of the ocean, keeps them firmly in place. Throw in a glass of wine or a cocktail and watch time fly as the great CBD harbour views make you hum “I’ve got you under my skin”.

DETAILS
Offering spectacular views of Sydney Harbour the Opera House and the Royal Botanic Gardens, the 25th Floor Restaurant offers modern international cuisine with an Australian touch. The 25th Floor Restaurant is the perfect venue for a romantic, intimate dinner, to entertain important clients or hold a function with style, refinement and elegance. The private dining area on the mezzanine level is ideal for group dinners and intimate cocktails.The relaxed and contemporary setting and the million dollar view makes the The 25th Floor Restaurant a great destination for a Cosmopolitan as you look out at the serenity of Sydney Harbour and the red lights of William Street.

EXECUTIVE CHEF
Drawing on his experience from all over the world, Executive Chef, Patrick Burgess, has reinvented the menu to create a collection of dishes to suit every palate. The eclectic mix of cooking styles featured on the menu range from Cajun to French and Italian to Chinese.

FUNCTIONS
The 25th Floor Restaurant seats 120 and is perfect for corporate dinners and wedding receptions. With the cocktail bar down the city side and the restaurant on the harbour side of the building you are treated to the best views Sydney has to offer. The private dining area on the mezzanine level is ideal for group dinners or intimate cocktails.

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

La Gondola (Italian)

La Gondola is a lovely little restaurant located in Temple Bar, and facing onto the quays. It is a small restaurant, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in charm.

Food & Price - The food is basic Italian cuisine with all the usual favourites available. It is excellently prepared and very tasty. As for the price it is very reasonable, with main courses averaging at about €15. It all adds up to an excellent restaurant which offers great value.

Service & Location - The service is very pleasant, with mostly Italian staff who are more than willing to be of assistance. The place is also small enough so that there is always someone available. As for location it is excellently situated on the edge of Temple Bar facing onto the Liffey.

Food: Excellent *****
Price: Reasonable €€
Service: Pleasant ***
Location: City-Centre *****

Tiger Bec's (THAI)

Our First Recommend Restaurant is Tiger Bec's on Dawson Street in the city-center of dublin. This is an excellent restaurant with great food and great service.

Food & Price - The prices are a bit chi ching, but if you can afford it, it is definitely worth it. Main courses average at about €25-30. The menu is HUGE!!! There really are numerous things to choose from and it can be a bit of an ordeal to pick something. When it arrives you are in for a treat as the food is excellent.

Service & Location - The service in this restaurant is very good. The waiters and waitresses are very attentive and are always available. As for location you can't really ask for more. Tiger Bec's is located on Dawson Street in the city-center, just a couple of mins walk from Grafton Street and St Stephens Green.

Food: Excellent *****
Price: Expensive €€€€
Service: Excellent ****
Location: City-Center *****

Harolds Cross Greyhound Stadium and restaurant

Description:
Harolds Cross Greyhound Stadium is the perfect location for all types of outings whether it be business or pleasure with packages to suit every pocket and taste. The superb purpose built facility contains a 280 seated grandstand restaurant (providing both tote and bar service to your table while you dine), two corporate suites overlooking the track, luxurious bars and very popular ground floor carvery. With the renowned Dobbins team looking after all your catering needs a great night’s entertainment is guaranteed with 11 thrilling races each race night.


Early week discounted packages at the Cross:
There are a number of special discounted packages with the Monday/Tuesday night restaurant special in particular proving very popular. Available every Monday/Tuesday with the exception of the Christmas party season. This tremendous deal is priced at only €29.99 per person includes the following:

- Admission and Race Programme (normally €10)
- Scrumptious 4 Course Dinner (Choice of 3 Starters, 3 Mains & 3 Desserts)
- Bar and Tote Service at your table while you dine
- Unbeatable Atmosphere

The Sausage Sizzler Deal (€9.99 per person)
- Admission and race programme (normally €10)
- Sausage & Chips
- €2 drink voucher
- €1 tote betting voucher

The Platter Deal (€15.00 per person)
- Admission and race programme (normally €10)
- Delicious platter of mouth watering finger food designed to share

Other popular packages include The Razz N Race ( €20 per head), The Premier Track Special ( €15 per head). Let us make the night easier to organise by arranging your party bus picking you up and dropping you back to your preferred location.

Monday, August 16, 2010

Manly Pavilion

LOCATION:
3 minutes walk from Manly Wharf.

DETAILS:
Manly Pavlion, located rights on the harbour's edge at Manly, has undergone a meticulous refurbishment and is now home to a stunning 150 seat restaurant and bar. Boasting a star studded cast both in the kitchen and front of house, the Manly Pavilion promises to deliver consistently stunning food with a seamless front of house experience, bringing a glamorous seaside restaurant and bar offering to local Manly patrons, Sydneysiders and international guests

DETAILS:
Originally built in 1933 as a dressing room for the comfort of bathers, the heritage listed Manly Pavilion has undergone a meticulous renovation by architects Squillace and Nicholas. The building has been restored to its original grandeur and beauty boasting soaring ceilings, an Italian marble terrazzo balcony and unrivalled views of Sydney harbour out to the Heads.

FOOD & BEVERAGE:
Manly Pavilion’s mouth watering menu has been created by up and coming chef Jonathan Barthelmess will play centre stage in the stunningly refurbished harbourside locale. Barthelmess and his award winning kitchen brigade will create an Italian menu with Mediterranean accents to create an unforgettable experience for diners.

The Manly Pavilion will also offer an international bar offering created by the globally renowned Grant Collins. Guests can enjoy a classic Italian cocktail and antipasti on the deck while watching the sun set across Sydney Harbour or if they wish choose a carefully selected wine from the 348 strong wine list created by Melbourne born Sommelier Michael Watt.

CATALINA Rose Bay

LOCATION:
On the waterfront in Lyne Park, 15 minutes drive from the CBD. Rose Bay Wharf is only a few minutes walk.

PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA:
It`s hard to focus elsewhere as the floor to ceiling windows draw your eyes to the huge expanse of water in front. The beautiful view is of historic significance; the site was home to Sydney`s first international airport in the 1930s, when overseas flights were a novelty and seaplanes were the only way to traverse the globe. The water is still home to a collection of seaplanes, however the empire class flying boats that originally graced the harbour are no longer around, and the only Catalina in site is the restaurant.

Owners Judy and Michael McMahon and their son Paul (Executive Chef), have worked together to create an environment that is welcoming, with great food and an in-depth wine list. Start with freshly shucked Sydney rock oysters, with a slice of their home-baked sourdough bread. The salmon is smoked, cured, and sliced in-house, served with buffalo mozzarella and marinated red peppers. The mains menu is seafood orientated; try the roasted snapper with potato and garlic puree and lemon caper butter, or opt for the barramundi, John Dory, or tuna. Meat-eaters are not left out; the Snake River wagyu sirloin is the ultimate indulgence, with spinach, bone marrow, and brioche. This is a great place to show off our beautiful harbour to visitors - arrive in style in a water taxi.

DETAILS:
CATALINA is one of only a few restaurants in Sydney whose kitchen remains open from midday to late. Diners are welcome all day (full menu available). A wonderful a la carte dining location, perfect for personal and business celebrations of all kinds, small or large. The CATALINA dining room is a wonderful indoor/outdoor space with stunning unobstructed views of Shark Island, Harbour ferries, windsurfers, sailing boats, and seaplanes in Rose Bay - with food to match. Resident pelicans visit every afternoon hoping for remnants of the premium quality fish.

FOOD & BEVERAGE:
Paul McMahon, Executive Chef of this superb dining retreat on the harbour, has created a contemporary Australian menu with French, Spanish and Italian influences. With a wide open welcoming of the harbour, balmy balcony, great views, candlelit tables, and fireplace, CATALINA is an ideal restaurant for all seasons. Sourdough loaves are baked on the premises twice a day; the smoked salmon is smoked, cured and sliced in-house; and the best Sydney Rock Oysters are sourced daily from up and down the NSW coast, and shucked to order. Paul only uses premium meats such as the dry aged Angus sirloin and Kurobuta pork. Menu favourites include Freshly Shucked Sydney Rock Oysters ($4.00 each), Roasted snapper fillet with potato and garlic mash; lemon caper butter ($45.00), and the Double roasted de-boned duck with a white port and pear pure; roasted parsnip ($47.00)

WINE LIST:
Catalina has one of the best wine lists in the country. Michael McMahon and Head Sommelier Simon Curkovic, (Winner 2008 Gourmet Traveller Sommelier of the Year) have developed a fine Australian and Imported list of over 600 wines. There are over 20 wines available by the glass.

AWARDS:
Awarded one chef`s hats 2002 - 2009, Good Food Guide.

Winner 2008 Gourmet Traveller `Sommelier of the Year`: Simon Curkovic, Catalina

2 stars 2008 Gourmet Traveller Restaurant Guide

Winner 2007 and 2008 Restaurant and Catering NSW Metropolitan Awards for Excellence Best Modern Australian Restaurant, Formal

Australia`s Wine List of the Year Awards 2008 - 3 wine glasses (the highest possible rating)

Bel Mondo

LOCATION:
On the top level of the Argyle Stores in the Rocks, enter via Gloucester Walk in Argyle Street. Close to Circular Quay.

PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA:
If you want to get to bel mondo prepare for a journey through Sydney’s historic Rocks area. You’ll have to traverse down Argyle Street, up an old-world staircase, down a narrow alley and into a heritage-listed warehouse. The effort is well worth it. This shy restaurant offers some of Sydney’s most prized views with a side of fine dining that’ll have you keen to relive the adventure. The interiors aren’t too shabby either. Finding a balance between modern and heritage-listed elements, bel mondo is reminiscent of a refined New York-style loft with a side of Alice in Wonderland quirk.

The first thing you notice when you come in is the breeze that dances from the entry, past a teardrop-shaped bar, ruffles the napkins of the dining room and sprints out to join the Harbour Bridge on a breezy balcony. The decor it touches surprises with little bursts of colour. The bar claims focus with its oblique shape and silver bookshelf of liquors (the first hints of a 30-strong cocktail list). Behind the bar a row of gold- and mauve-coloured curtains billow around baroque-style armchairs. To their right are two whimsical orange Potenza chairs, an open kitchen (raised on a platform for emphasis) and finally a dining room filled with polite beige table settings and very respectable views of the Opera House. From here you can also spy entrees like carpaccio of beef tenderloin with pear, walnuts and gorgonzola rocket salad, mains like fresh herb linguini with sauteed prawns, dry-aged chorizo, asparagus and basil pesto, and desserts like passionfruit and lime brulee with macerated strawberries and sweet pastry twists. Order two courses for a reasonable $45 and indulge in the freshness of the seasonal menu. Alternatively treat yourself to the five-course degustation menu prepared daily according to seasonal market produce.

Agnes Gajewska, January 2010

DETAILS:
bel mondo restaurant has to be Sydney’s best kept secret located in the heart of The Rocks offering historic, harbour and bridge views. Housed atop the Argyle stores, a space reminiscent of a New York loft, with old timber beams, exposed roof trusses, iron-bark flooring; a structure of a bygone era. In all this, the modernality of an exposed state of the art kitchen - the theatre of restaurant; subtle lighting, and a streamlined 21st century bar leading to an elegant dining setting. bel mondo is much more than a restaurant, with a bar that opens onto a balcony with views of the Harbour Bridge and glimpses of the opera house. A range of stunning cocktails and canapés, bel mondo is the perfect place for drinks after work and cocktail parties.

FOOD & BEVERAGE:
The menu is modern, vibrant and exciting, yet with a healthy respect for the traditional. If close to a single region –then the Mediterranean would best describe the menu.

FUNCTIONS:
bel mondo is available for corporate events, cocktail parties, weddings, christmas parties, award presentations, media launches, birthdays and much more. bel mondo is available for use for private events 7 days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner. If you are looking for a venue with a difference for your next event, that has great views, friendly staff, atmosphere and style then bel mondo is the perfect choice. For all function enquiries contact; Leanne Lloyd on: 02 9555 7493.

Thursday, August 12, 2010

Shanahan’s on the Green

In addition to a creative and sumptuous menu, which features traditional steaks and Ireland's native seafood combined with hearty side dishes and exquisite pastries, Shanahan's has the finest in gracious service. The elegance of the food and service, however, is maintained in perfect harmony with the warmth, which personifies Ireland's population, and a casual atmosphere that allows each patron to feel at home.


From "The Oval Office", the restaurant's downstairs bar featuring historical documents and mementoes from each of America's presidents of Irish Heritage to the dining and private rooms which reflect the exquisite Irish workmanship of both the building's heritage and today, Shanahan's is a blend of both cultures and history. To predict the success of this unique blending process is simple when Shanahan's on the Green is viewed as a reflection of its founder, John M. Shanahan. An American entrepreneur who maintains dual citizenship in Ireland and the United States, Mr. Shanahan has long been recognized for his creativity and innovation in the merger of the philosophies underlying product development, marketing and service.


To Shanahan's on the Green, he has brought his pride in his Irish heritage and his love of both the warmth and beauty which defines the Irish spirit combined with his American upbringing and the principals of marketing and service established in the competitive American market place. Mr. Shanahan embarked upon Shanahan's on the Green to capture the opportunity to bring together his love of cooking and gourmet fare with his passion for Ireland and the heritage which he has always credited as the source of his creative spirit. Shanahan's on the Green indeed encapsulates that Irish magic and American finesse and brings to its patrons and staff a sense of the pure pleasure the marriage of these two cultures is destined to establish. We are closed 25th, 26th, 27th of December. We re-open for dinner on December 28th.

Bleu Bistro Moderne

Bleu bistro is located in the heart of St Stephens Green / Dawson St Area & offers superb seasonal french bistro style food with an emphasis on Quality & Value. Bleu is ideal for either lunch or dinner.

The pre theatre menu is ideal as its proximity to the gaiety theatre is a mere 2 minute stroll away, Our Sunday lunch runs from 12-5pm (booking advisable) and is ideal as our location is opposite St Stephens Green which is wonderful for a Sunday stroll. The innovative menu takes a modern style bistro approach to french cuisine with an occaisional nod to the french classics, all our produce is from only the best suppliers and artisans such as maurice kettyle where our beef for all our restaurants is dry aged, fillets 21 days & ribs 28 days, our fish comes from mourne seafoods, hanlons & garrett doran, we have our own small farm in kilternan where we grow & supply our restaurants with organic salad leaves herbs & vegetables as much as possible. The carefully selected wine list represents excellent value & is sourced from renowned experts such as wines direct, morgons, paddy moore, quintessential, richard verling, vendimia, berrys bros, vin italia amongst others.

Abacus Restaurant

Indulge in a selection of mouth-watering Chinese cuisine in the relaxed, intimate surroundings of the new 'Abacus Asian Restaurant'. The jewel in the culinary crown of the Best Western Premier Academy Plaza Hotel, 'Abacus' is fast building a reputation as one of the finest and most stylish Asian restaurants in Dublin. Using only the freshest ingredients our team of experienced Asian chefs provide a sumptuous selection of the finest authentic Chinese delicacies, creating an unrivalled Oriental fine dining experience in the most elegant yet intimate of surroundings.



Our creative menu combines a variety of stunning colourful plate presentations and a consistency in exceptional food quality. In part of the restaurant, a breathtaking chandelier feature hangs from the ‘cloud filled’ ceiling, which at night turns into an enchanting blanket of twinkling stars, which along with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, and superior service creates an ambiance of intimacy, leaving our guests with an unforgettable experience. Indulge the senses with an evening meal and enjoy the fusion of colour and taste, in this stunning city centre restaurant. Compliment your meal with a drink from our extensive wine list or full bar.

Chameleon Restaurant

The Chameleon restaurant is an intimate and ambient restaurant,by them contemporary Indonesian cuisine has serving .

Opened in 1994 Chameleon has gone on to win many prestigious awards including best restaurant in Temple Bar, it has also been featured in the Bridgestone Guide's - "Best Restaurants in Ireland" every year since opening and has been included in "100 best in Dublin 2008".Since opening Chameleon has gone from strength to strength. Its food and unique atmosphere have gained a reputation and loyal following. A wonderfully unique setting for parties of all description. Also available for private functions. Reservations recommended for Friday and Saturday nights.

to know many more http://www.chameleonrestaurant.com/

HUGO'S

All dishes in Hugo’s are freshly prepared on the premises. All raw ingredients are delivered fresh daily.Hugo's offers French and international cuisine at moderate prices with an emphasis on welcoming professional service, stylish décor & great food & wine. All of which provides an excellent dining experience.

Hugo's is located in Merrion Row in the heart of the city near to a variety of Dublin's most traditional and exclusive hotels, pubs & clubs.


Since opening in august 2007, Hugo's Restaurant & wine bar has established itself as one of the Dublin's finest eateries & is a great addition to the area.

THE ARLINGTON HOTEL TEMPLE BAR

The Arlington Hotel Temple Bar is ideally located in the heart of Dublin City Centre opposite Dublin Castle, on the doorstep of Temple Bar and just a short walk from Grafton Street, Trinity College, Stephens Green, Point Depot, Museums, Theatres and Parliament buildings. Its prime location makes it one of the most conveniently located hotels in Temple Bar.

Rooms available from as low as €69 including Full Irish Breakfast, Service Charge & V.A.T.!!!

We also feature the unique Guinness Tables where customer can try their hand at pouring their very own Pint Of Guinness. Play our new online game http://www.pouryourownpint.com/

Book Your Irish Dancing Dinner & Show at www.legends.ie

The Arlington Hotel Temple Bar consists of 63 beautifully appointed en-suite bedrooms. All rooms are non-smoking, have satellite T.V., direct dial telephone, tea/coffee making facilities, hair dryer, trouser press and much more making The Arlington one of the finest Temple Bar Hotels.

New Irish Dancing Show Now Open. Book Today. http://www.legends.ie/

Please visit our sister hotels - Arlington Hotel O'Connell bridge http://www.arlington.ie/ or the 4 star Louis Fitzgerald Hotel http://www.louisfitzgeraldhotel.com/

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

Spain - Canary Islands - Isla de la Palma

While staying here, a visit to the coves with transparent waters on the beach of Cancajos is mandatory. This is the best attraction of the island together with the wonderful views that can be seen from the swimming pool of the Parador.
Parador de La Palma

This new Parador de la Isla de la Palma is in an area of great natural wealth located near the capital of the island and the airport, within the municipal boundaries of Brena Baja.
The Parador is built in modern and typical Canary island style and features gardens filled with indigenous plants.

Find the pleasure of a good watercress or chick pea broth made with varied meats. We also recommend you sample the fresh, grilled or parboiled fishes, served with a good ”mojo” (typical Canary Island sauce). These dishes may be enjoyed accompanied by a glass of La Palma wine.
Parador de La Palma

Experience a touch of history during your travels by visiting the old neighbourhood of Santa Cruz de la Palma which has been declared a National Historic-Artistic Ensemble.
Inside this city visit the churches of El Salvador, Candelaria, the Sanctuary of Nuestra Senora de las Nieves, and the House of Salazar.

The Feast of the Cruz (cross) is held every May 3rd, and the descent of the Virgen de las Nieves (Virgin of the Snows) takes place in Santa Cruz de la Palma only every five years.

Participate in the excursions to the National Park of Caldera de Taburiente, to the Llanos de Aridane, and to the Limetrees Forest in the Sauces area.
Parador de La Palma

In the area surrounding the Parador you may practise hiking, 4x4, parapente and scuba diving.

This Parador has sixty five twin bedded rooms and thirteen double bedded rooms.

In the rooms you will find a telephone, television with canal plus, safe and mini bar.
Also for the comfort of your stay there is heating, currency exchange, lift, parking facilities (without security and limited places), satellite television, gift shop, free wireless internet, air conditioning, gymnasium, sauna, seasonal swimming pool, garden, children play area, restaurant, bar, conference facilities and facilities for the disabled.

Distance from the nearest airport is approximately 5 kms and the nearest port is 8 kms away.

Animals are not allowed.

Parador de La Palma is a Canary Islands hotel in the Parador group.

Map with location Tours in the Canary Islands Parador La Palma comments Parador de La Palma gallery

Mardan Palace in Lara

How to reach us:
On the roundabout outside the Antalya airport take a right, drive directly to the seashore following the Kundu hotel signs. After about 7 km you take a left turn at the roundabout following the Lara region tourism highway. Continue the road till the end and then you will reach Mardan Palace with the Dolmabahce entrance golden gate.


Hotel facilities:

Beauty Care Fitness Center
Hairdresser SPA/Medical treatments
Banqueting Wedding Ceremonies
Honeymoon Specials Cinema
24 hour check in/check out 24 hour room service
Laundry service Valet service
Non smoking areas Disabled Access
Private parking


SPA facilities:

Outdoor Pool Indoor Pool
Whirlpool Sauna
Turkish Bath Solarium
Fitness Centre Steam Bath
Jacuzzi Thalasso Pool

Capri Tiberio Palace Hotel & Spa in Capri - Packages & Specials

volare, volare, volare

Includes:

* 2 nights stay in one of our suites
* Transfer from Naples to Capri by private helicopter with a tour around the island
* A special welcome gift
* American buffet breakfast served at our restaurant "Terrazza Tiberio"
* Daily access to the pool
* Daily access to the pool SPA (4 emotional showers, sauna, steam bath, frigidarium, relax lounge)
* Tour of the island by private "gozzo" (typical Capri's boat)
* Candle light dinner on your room terrace (menu a la carte, beverage included, mineral water and wine selected by our Sommelier)

Euro 4600.00 for 2 nights in Junior Suite
Euro 5300.00 for 2 nights in Superior Suite
Euro 6000.00 for 2 nights in Prestige Suite
Euro 7500.00 for 2 nights in Bellevue Suite


capri Adventurous Vacation:

The offer includes:

• 3 overnights for 2 people
• Welcome gift in your room
• American buffet
• Free access to the outdoor pool
• Free access to the pools of the SPA
• 1 trekking tour of 6/8 hours on the island
• Lunch basket for the trekking tour
• 1 entrance for 2 people to the “international Baths”
• Kayak tour around the island
• Dinner the day of arrival at the Restaurant “Terrazza Tiverio” (3 courses, 1 bottle water and 1 bottle wine)

Euro 2160.00 for 3 nights in double Superior
Euro 2340.00 for 3 nights in room Prestige with sea view and terrace
Euro 3140.00 for 3 nights in Junior Suite with sea view and terrace

Monday, August 9, 2010

Amsterdam Restaurant Reviews

Until a decade or two ago, it seemed that eating in Amsterdam was tinged more with the flavor of Calvinism than with any culinary influence. All too often the filling yet unenlightened fare of charred fish or meat, overboiled potatoes, and limp vegetables remained the standard.

Today, happily, things have changed. Many of the city's former industrial- and harbor-related buildings are being transformed into distinctive dining establishments. The term "New Dutch Cuisine," thanks to the emergence of young chefs who are finding their inspiration from around the globe, means exotic foamy-textured pea soup with chanterelles and pancetta, cod smothered in a sauce based on chorizo and fennel, or turbot and truffle wrapped in potato spaghetti, stewed chard, and veal sauce. And international urban eating trends make it highly probable that you'll encounter sushi shacks, soup shops, noodle joints, and organic bakeries selling hearty Mediterranean breads.

Although traditionally hearty Dutch food really shines only in the winter months, there are two imported-but-typically-Dutch culinary trips that cannot be missed: the Indonesian rijsttafel ("rice table"), where dozens of differently spiced vegetables, meats, and fish dishes are served with rice; and cheese fondue, which the Dutch appropriated from the Swiss probably because it appealed to their "one pot, many forks" sense of the democratic. The many cheap Suri/Indo/Chin (or some such combination) snack bars serve a combination of Suriname, Indonesian, and Chinese dishes, and although they are remarkably consistent, it is perhaps advisable to choose a dish that matches the cook's apparent roots.

If you're the type who likes to make your own discoveries, here are a few tips to keep in mind. In general, avoid the tourist traps around Leidseplein, Rembrandtplein, the Damrak, and the Red Light District. Cheap global eats are concentrated in the De Pijp district. A broad selection of middle-range eateries can be found around Nieuwmarkt, the Jordaan, and Utrechtsestraat. To find posher purveyors for a true blowout, head to Reguliersdwarsstraat or the Nine Streets (the interconnecting streets of the canal girdle between Raadhuisstraat and Leidsestraat) areas. Befitting a casual town, children are pretty much universally welcomed in Amsterdam.

Bangkok Restaurant Reviews

Thais are passionate about food and love discovering out-of-the-way shops that prepare unexpectedly tasty dishes. Nowhere is this more true—or feasible—than in Bangkok. The city's residents always seem to be eating, so the tastes and smells of Thailand's cuisine surround you day and night. That said, Bangkok's restaurant scene is also a minefield, largely because the relationship between price and quality at times seems almost inverse. For every hole-in-the-wall gem serving the best larb, sticky rice, and som tam (the hot-and-sour green-papaya salad that is the ultimate Thai staple) you've ever had, there's an overpriced hotel restaurant serving touristy, toned-down fare. In general, the best Thai food in the city is generally at the most bare-bones, even run-down restaurants, not at famous, upscale places.

If you want a break from Thai food, plenty of other world cuisines are well represented. Best among them is Chinese, although there's decent Japanese and Korean food in Bangkok as well. The city's ubiquitous noodle shops, though by all means Thai, also have their roots in China, as do roast-meat purveyors, whose historical inspiration was Cantonese. Western fare tends to suffer from the distance.

As with anything in Bangkok, travel time is a major consideration when choosing a restaurant. If you're short on time or patience, choose a place that's an easy walk from a Skytrain or subway station. Note that often the easiest way to reach a riverside eatery is by taking the Skytrain to the Saphan Taksin station (next to the Shangri-La Hotel). From there you can take an express boat upriver to a number of the restaurants