Evocative, Deliciously Casual
Ricky’s sparkles like the Noosa River beside it on a cloud-free day, and impresses before you’ve even tasted the food, enthuses Helen Flanagan.
It is difficult not to be goggle-eyed at the 180-degree quintessential Noosa view from your seat at Rickys Riverfront Restaurant and Bar, the shimmering river lapping gently at its banks just metres away, and menu and wine list reinforcing the understated elegance of the luminescent interior. Dive into the menu, notably playful and assured; beautiful ingredients with texture, and fresh Mediterranean flavours harmoniously perfected by head chef Enrique Mancilla and sous chef German Ameal.
Augmenting the bounty of suppliers including fresh-caught seafood and premium meats, chefs work with farmers at the restaurant’s Maravista Farm, in the Noosa Hinterland, who nurture vegetables, microherbs, macadamia orchards, citrus groves and honey production.Creative dishes and ingredients evolve naturally albeit with a dash of daring, yet consistently stay true to guest expectations, however two dishes remain steadfast: Spanner Crab Spaghettini with garlic, chilli, shallot and lemon; also Passionfruit Soufflé with crème fraiche, white chocolate and passionfruit curd.
Restaurant manager James Rothwell and sommelier Steve Major are a formidable duo and lead similarly knowledgeable teams. When it comes to wines there are over 550 on the thoughtfully-designed list with something for everyone.
“Chablis is a popular category,” explained Steve, “and overall, Chardonnay is the white winner and Pinot Noir, the red; possibly because they are best matched to our food.
“Cocktails are also a big go-to, even for dessert, and let’s not forget Rosé for the traditional Rickys long lunch.”
Subtle aesthetic and structural changes achieved progressively over the years reflect the growth of the restaurant and its prime location.
“One of the biggest changes was taking over the adjoining site that was home to Wasabi,” recalls general manager David Jouy. “We expanded the restaurant space to take full advantage of the Noosa River and create a dedicated lounge area.”
Functions are also an integral part of Rickys success story with corporate and private events, and 50-plus weddings per year. Whether a ceremony in the adjacent park before the reception, or a wedding on Noosa Main Beach with a ferry ride to Rickys’ private jetty, everything is seamless and always unforgettable for everyone. Rickys is a magnet when it comes to a beautiful workplace and aspirational environment, and there’s no denying wide smiles that say it all, ditto long tenures amongst the teams.
“We attract good quality staff and managers who share the same passion and professionalism,” said David who with wife Renée (admin/HR), have been at Rickys for nine years.
“A strong team attracts like-minded people and professionals understand the ethics of excellent guest relations. Rickys is a Noosa institution whether a local or visitor, you can often rub shoulders with celebrities and A-listers, but what makes Rickys so special, is everyone is welcome any time for a drink at the bar or a meal in the restaurant. Every day is like a holiday.
“On a personal note, Renée and I have amazing memories of Rickys even before we worked here as it was the place I proposed to her while on a weekend away from Sydney. It’s still a romantic location and we have fond memories of seeing families and regulars coming back year after year and the kids growing up in front of our eyes. Now we’re talking to these former teenagers about their upcoming weddings here.”
Congratulations to Rickys for its 18th year of operations and a big, big thank you for leaving such a special place in so many hearts everywhere.
May the delicious and auspicious memories roll on adinfinitum!
