Where Toowoomba Chefs Go to Eat
We got the inside scoop from some of the city’s best.
Published on 30 January 2020
Photography by Morgan Smith
Despite knowing full well that chefs rarely have time to eat in anyone’s restaurant but their own, we asked some locals about their favourite spots. And it turns out that they absolutely do get out and about – just not very often. All too happy to have someone else do the cooking (and cleaning), these local chefs have all nominated their favourite place they like to go when they’re not working.
Kyle Zevenbergen, owner/chef of Zev’s Bistro
I could not be more thankful and more lucky to call Tasch & Clem from Burrow my friends. Having worked with Tasch many moons ago, I’m not surprised by the level of success and respect from diners that they have achieved in the year they have been open. It’s a credit to their creativity, passion and commitment to the industry. Thank you for being authentically you and consistent.
I’d order a double espresso x 2 (hot water on the side), and some f**k off amazing special that Tasch has whipped up for the week. And then more coffee and sparkling water, because we should all be boujee at breakfast.
Kajoku is another one of my favourites places to enjoy a snack and a drink after service (if I wrap up at a decent hour) thanks to their commitment for being open late every evening (it’s appreciated guys, truly). I’d order a Koshikari rice beer or a pint of Kirin, depending on the weather, some mandu and edamame to snack on, and it’s normally a toss up between bibimbab or spicy fried chicken. If it’s not a school night and the pints keep flowing, I have been known to end up in the karaoke room. My go to song is normally an old blue eyes – Frank Sinatra’s ‘That’s Life’
Notably mentions include The Irish (because, it’s The Irish. Always solid for a cheeky pint and rissoles) and Sleepless City Roasters (it’s how I start every day – shlong and a ‘spro, sometimes another ‘spro, depending on how I am for time).
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Mark Rawlings, Chef/Owner of Encores and Inbound Brasserie
I often stop by Burrow on the way to work for a quick coffee, or a Sunday morning brunch with the family (always plenty of takers for this offer). I love the fresh food and friendly vibe from the staff. One of the main plusses of Burrow is its situation in the suburbs, making use of an old building and giving a community feel.
I’ll most often order the breakfast special, but otherwise that garlic rubbed sourdough with the smokey blistered tomatoes, charred onion, whipped feta and condiments is amazing.
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Tasch and Clem, owners of Burrow
For international flavours, Thai Royal on South Street (particularly the Choo Chee fish or crispy basil prawns), or Kajoku for the friendly service and entertaining barbecue experience.
For an indulging and an out of the ordinary night out, Zev's Bistro for sure.
For a chill time with friends at home, we'd get cheeses from Deli Delicious, cured meats from Toni's, bread from The Baker's Duck, and our chef buddies from East Street Kitchen would bring their own bacon jam and the best buffalo wings in town!
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Brendan Mullins, head chef at Fitzy’s
I don’t really mind, as long as there’s someone else doing the cooking! I love a relaxed pub or café environment where I can chill with my family. I’m always partial to a big steak that’s cooked well and the Meringandan Pub has always been a favourite. For something fast and (relatively) healthy, I can’t go past 3.5 Sushi at the Ridge Shopping Centre or the beef pho at Original Saigon.
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Adam Pownall, Head Chef of George Banks
I love consistency, and for that reason I love Sofra. The baba ganoush is out of this world good. My wife and I love travelling around to try all new weird and wonderful dishes. Food is life — there are no limits on where to go and what to eat. I’ll go anywhere at least once.
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For more restaurants, cafe and bar suggestions, check out our full Food & Drink directory, which is constantly updated.
