Business
7 September, 2024
Med-style restaurant opens
A NEW Mediterranean restaurant – Éla Drink + Meze – has opened its doors on the Cairns waterfront dining precinct.
The Wilson Group (of Ollie’s Italian and formerly The Chambers) has opened their new venue along 23m of the boardwalk overlooking Trinity Inlet on the site previously home to the Boatshed.
Owner Joan Wilson said in collaboration with Clui Design, “the interiors dance around an earthy-European colour palette, featuring an impressive white marble bar, timber-battened archways, plush textured fabrics, elegant tiling and lush tropical greenery”.
“The venue is both light-filled and breezy, with the capacity to host up to 140 guests (seated) across a range of carefully considered and comfortable seating options – from banquette to bar, in both indoor and alfresco settings,” she said.
“Behind the scenes, head chef Vincent Perraud leads the kitchen, bringing years of professional experience working in establishments across the globe from Adelaide’s Hey Jupiter, to La Brasserie and Bistro Massili in California. Perraud’s cooking style is young and dynamic, with a flair for creatively balancing traditional flavours and modern interpretations.
“Designed with intent to share, the menu features a range of small and large mezes perfectly suited for every occasion, from breezy long lunches to drinks and nibbles at dusk.
“Celebrated small plates include baked eggplant, dolmades and goat-milk saganaki, while large plates include confit lamb shoulder and the parrilla-grilled chicken souvlaki. The menu is complemented by a generous selection of signature and classic cocktails, exceptional wines and crisp beers.
“It (Éla Drink + Meze) feels like the right evolution for the Cairns waterfront fining precinct.
“It is named after a Greek expression translating to ‘come’ or ‘come now’, Éla Drink + Meze is aimed at tourists as well as locals to enjoy a slice of Mediterranean paradise with waterfront views, a strong culinary concept and an elevated, yet casual ambience perfectly suited to tropical Far North Queensland’s balmy climate.”
Reservations are now live on www.elacairns.com.au/reservations
