Autumn Indulgences at Gusto
Busting it out with an autumn menu to celebrate the change of seasons and pay homage to the riverside location, Helen Flanagan has fine-tuned her taste buds with Gusto!
At the very heart of Gusto – the ever-evolving European-leaning restaurant with a modern coastal ethos – is an evocative, well-defined menu that emphasises seasonal ingredients. The paddock-to-plate philosophy, premium-quality produce and balanced flavours are complemented by an extensive beverage list and naturally impeccable service. Quite simply, if it is out of season, it’s not on the menu.
Head chef Sacha Ryan prefers to support inspirational local and regional growers, fishermen and farmers – each with their own unique stories – and believes this approach makes the dining experience so much more special. Sacha’s Polish-born mother inspired the little kid to bake from an early age and she recalls fondly rifling through her magazine clippings and recipe books.
“I’m very vegetable-driven and love the idea of a vegetarian dish outshining any protein; using as much produce as possible for minimal wastage; and am drawn to Middle Eastern flavours, with a love for fragrant spices,” Sacha says.
“Being able to recreate an emotion for someone enjoying my food, is so appealing. It might remind them of a person or place or maybe they are just completely taken aback by the dish.
“And in so many cases they return to the restaurant time and time again to relive those memories.”
That explains why dishes (with seasonal ingredients to suit), such as Mooloolaba Prawn and Garlic Ravioli with Lemon Butter Sauce and Diced Tomatoes; Eye Fillet au Poivre; Seared Venison Loin; and Cumin Roasted Cauliflower with Fregola, Almonds, Herbs, Raisins, Labneh and Harissa Hummus, remain on the menu. Similarly, the classic Lemon Tart; Traditional Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée; and Bread and Butter Pudding, maybe with rhubarb; also keep your eyes peeled for the French classic Tarte Tatin.
“The autumn menu is all about taking the traditional and nostalgic flavours of modern comfort food, with quality produce including earthy root vegetables leading the way and giving it a tantalising twist,” Sacha says.
It will also see the return of the much-loved Sunday Roast with roasted beef striploin, Yorkshire pudding, jus, roasted vegetables, green beans and cauliflower gratin. Seasoned restaurateur Tim Lepoutre has become used to the menu being the talk of the town, however lately, extra plaudits have been flowing from lunch-goers for what could be conceived as a ‘simple’ Lobster Roll. Never at Gusto!
Fresh delicate Western Australia Rock Lobster, Gusto-style Marie Rose sauce, crispy celery, green apple, dill, all hugged by baby gem lettuce inside a perfectly toasted soft brioche bun and served with shoestring fries and aioli. And every bite is sheer indulgence! On the de-vine side of Gusto is effervescent Dale Potts, who has a deep appreciation and understanding of wine, from flavours, aromas, characteristics, and wine making to service. He is also a maître d’, sommelier and host extraordinaire for numerous events. Given the popularity of rosé, Dale’s favourite day of the week is Saturday when the ‘Bottomless’ Rosé Lunch features shared entrées, choice of main course and set dessert.
“I also think Thursday is special as it’s BYO night,” he shares.
“Dust off a favourite vintage from the home cellar, choose a matching dish from the menu and pay no corkage.”
Sacha remains very calm even under extreme pressure when service becomes chaotic. She attributes it to relentless training as a professional boxer, fighting in Superfly and Bantamweight divisions.
“I train 5-6 days a week regardless of my work load at the restaurant, even if that means training early morning and between lunch and dinner services,” she says. “I never stand still and am very self-motivated, a trait I bring into the kitchen.”
For knockout food, slick service, superb wines and stunning river views, enjoy it with Gusto on Gympie Terrace.
GUSTO FAVOURITES
Weekday Happy Hour 3pm-5pm; $2.50 freshly shucked oysters 3.30pm-4.30pm
Weekday Express Lunch & Dinner from $39 with a beverage.
Local’s BYO – Thursdays, locals can BYO wine to accompany your meal with no corkage charge!
Live Music – Wednesdays on the Terrace 4pm-7pm; Sunday sessions, 2.30pm-5.30pm
Bottomless Rosé Lunch – Saturdays with shared entrées, choice of main course and set dessert – $89 or $150pp; premium package includes 2-hour free-flowing beverages (conditions apply)
Famous Sunday Roast – roasted beef striploin, Yorkshire pudding, jus, roasted vegetables, green beans and cauliflower gratin – until sold out. Bookings advised.
