The Joker and Thief restaurant at Terrigal has completely revamped its menu with an emphasis on sustainability, highlighting local produce and growers.
In what it calls a move towards “conscious hospitality”, the restaurant says with competition in the region heating up, now was the time for venues to innovate and change up the way they do things.
Executive Chef Pauly Mac said staff at the Joker and Thief team were passionate about the environment and making huge positive changes.
“In fact, they’ve been quietly making changes for quite some time with plenty more big ideas and imminent plans up their sleeve,” he said.
“With this in mind, the new menu strategy was simple.
“Celebrate local producers and growers, champion our incredible coastal location and reduce our impact on the environment.
“We have been working closely with local fish markets and fishermen to curate a seafood inspired menu fit for a venue that benefits from incredible ocean views, whilst ensuring there is plenty of variety and options for everyone’s tastes.
“This has resulted in an exciting and refreshing new menu that we are incredibly proud of.
“As well as creating dishes full of flavour, every dish has its own unique story and reason for being there.”
Mac said the restaurant was committed to sourcing as many ingredients as possible, where possible, from within a 10-mile radius of venue.
“The Coast has some incredible produce, we believe in supporting other local businesses, and the best part – it reduces our food miles which is kinder to our environment.” he said.
The venue opened in October, 2019, four months before the global pandemic was declared.
During a turbulent time, the team set out to create a venue for the mature patron – a “slice of Sydney on the Coast”.
Venue Manager, Griffin Avis-Foster, said a new alfresco dining area had recently been built downstairs.
Guests can dine surrounded by the busy buzz of Terrigal or go upstairs to enjoy elegant furnishings and design with a view of the ocean.
“Whilst we have tonnes of exciting things planned over the coming months including the very best in comedy, live music, and unique entertainment, we are also calling upon fellow hospitality businesses to join us in our conscious hospitality mission,” Avis-Foster said.
“Being environmentally friendly can sometimes be the costlier option, especially in this industry.
“But if we band together and combine our minds and ideas, we believe we can make sustainability more affordable, achievable and effective.
“We are currently in talks with a local environmental group to come on board and help us create an education group.
“We plan to meet once a month, host talks by sustainability professionals and discuss ideas for us to then put into action in our venues and drive change together.
“We will even aim to throw in some fun with beach cleans ups and sporting tournaments.”
The restaurant is planning a spooky showcase of talent for Halloween on October 30.
Source:
Media release, Oct 5
The Joker and Thief