Engaged? Birthday? Anniversary? Just feel like being fancy? No matter the reason for poppin’ bottles (and sometimes the best reason is no reason) there are a few delightful venues in Toowoomba that will give you a total food and wine experience to remember.
Gip’s Restaurant
You can’t get fancier than an 1860s mansion. And in addition to the gorgeous surroundings, Gip’s food never disappoints. It’s classic flavours presented in a modern way, and with mouthwatering options like Bunya BBQ pork tenderloin and Moreton Bay bug ravioli on the menu you’re guaranteed to roll out of Gip’s happy. If your celebration needs to be short try their lunch time express menu.
Open Monday to Friday from 9am for breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee and cocktails.
Open Saturday from 11.30am for lunch, afternoon tea and dinner.
Closed Sundays.
Gip’s
Seasons on Ruthven
Let’s start with bruschetta, with heirloom tomatoes, torn basil, Persian fetta and sourdough. Throw in coconut crumbed prawns, with mango, macadamia, and ginger. What about lobster for main – or slow cooked lamb shoulder? It doesn’t matter what your order, know that Seasons on Ruthven will serve up the goods. It’s connected to the Best Western Hotel, but the restaurant is available to everyone. Lucky us!
Open for dinner Monday to Saturday from 6.00pm.
Zev’s Bistro
Welcome to Toowoomba’s only AGFG hatted restaurant. Zev’s menu is unique, exciting and just a little bit unexpected. Self-styled as ‘high-end casual dining’ Zev’s may offer you a relaxing, intimate experience, but the food is anything but casual. The seasonal menu takes a nose to tail approach, playing with flavours, textures, and beverage pairings. Go with a group to delve into their six-course tasting menu, or take your ride or die and sample the bistro menu. Bookings essential.
Open Tuesday to Saturday 6.00pm to late.
Encores Restaurant
Encores is located at the Empire Theatre, so head here for a quick pre-show dinner, or simply settle in for a great night of attentive service and totally tasty food. The a la carte menu has that modern Australian flair: try tantalising your taste buds with pan fried snapper, confit duck or Darling Downs eye fillet. Head there on Tuesday nights to take advantage of their special set menu options: two courses for $50, or three courses for $60 – vino included!
Open for lunch Tuesday to Friday 11.30am to 3.00pm.
Open for dinner Tuesday to Saturday from 6.00pm.
Café Valetta
You want special? How about a stunning historic building, views of Queens Park, and food that makes you do that excited clap thing when it arrives on the table? Café Valetta is the place. It’s great for a casual weekend breakfast but if you need to amp up the ceremony give their delicious lunches and weekend dinners a go. Or, book yourself a high tea experience – nothing says fancy like tiered treats.
Open Monday to Sunday for breakfast and lunch 7.30am to 2.30pm.
Open Friday and Saturday for dinner 6.00pm to 9.00pm
High teas are Monday to Saturday with last seating at 12pm. Minimum of four people, bookings essential.
Cafe Valetta
