After a fantastic dining experience at Social Eating House + Bar at the Gold Coast, and with some unanticipated free time, I really wanted to try out its sister restaurant, RockSalt Modern Dining located in the same suburb of Broadbeach.
RockSalt offers great service and a sophisticated laid-back vibe. Rocksalt’s awards displayed on top of the wine shelf includes winning the Gold Coast People’s Choice Awards for Chef of the Year 2009, 2010 and 2011. Rocksalt was also awarded 1 Chef’s Hat by the Australian Good Food Guide in 2009, 2010 and 2011. My expectations of this place were pretty high.
There were only two other full tables in the restaurant as we had arrived quite late for lunch (around 2pm). Our waiter was very professional and friendly. After asking whether we’d like to sit inside or outside, we were informed of our water options – sparkling, still or tap, and presented with the wine menu.
To start, we shared the entree sized King Prawn white truffle risotto with black truffle creme fraiche, salmon pearl caviar and herbs ($24). I loved the bright colours in the dish. The risotto was perfectly cooked, smooth and creamy. Truffle flavours really came through and the salmon pearls provided extra bursts of flavour. I’d forgotten about the prawns until I came across a few large chunks. The risotto was slightly salty but other than that, it was fantastic. I was really happy with the choice.
For the main meal, I ordered the seafood plate ($44) consisting of local seafood, tomato fondue, congo potatoes, confit leeks, watercress, vanilla and saffron veloute. This looked very pretty on the plate but there wasn’t much of it for $44. There was nothing particularly special about this dish in terms of taste. The king prawns were sadly overcooked and dry. The rest of the seafood was cooked well but had gone a little cold by the time the plate had reached me. The purple congo potato was different and not something I usually see at restaurants. My favourite element was probably the confit leeks – soft and full of flavour.
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My partner ordered the fish of the day ($38) with fregola and asparagus. An interesting combination of pasta and fish.
I was full after the entree of risotto so no dessert was ordered. I wasn’t completely satisfied with my main meal especially for the price, and I don’t think my partner was either. I guess my expectations were too high. Overall, it was a pleasant experience.
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Foodgasm 6.5/10
