Harvey’s Bar & Bistro

We enjoyed fabulous  hospitality at the local Harvey’s Bar & Bistro. So much so that whilst we partook in the karaoke, met fantastic people and soaked up the general atmosphere, particularly one evening, I didn’t take many photos! However, the food we have enjoyed here in the past has generally been of a high standard, with the owners, JT & Claire creating a joint mix which works fabulously. JT runs back of house, whilst Claire runs front of house. This young, hardworking couple have created a fantastic environment, which has arisen from their dedication to the business. Choose from a table under sheltered deck area or inside the roomy venue. With plenty of room around tables, you don’t feel cramped in or like you’re sitting on top of your neighbours.

   The seafood platter for one is an example of JT’s highly delicious and well presented handiwork. Highly recommend a visit to this bar, perhaps for lunch, maybe a few relaxing drinks, or to check out the entertainment on offer. Staff are friendly, helpful and well trained. Check out the different menus on offer, perhaps the $25 Friday night bottomless banquet, (10% discount if his book), or, the $12.50 Sunday roast. With a variety of specials running, you won’t be disappointed. 

We have to admit a soft spot for this venue and one to which we will keep returning.  Hervey Bay itself is hop, skip jump from Brisbane, around 3 1/2 hours.  Ok not a daily drive, but one we will make again soon to ensure we enjoy the hospitality on offer here.

You won’t go hungry here!  Plus the bar has a great selection to wet the whistle, not to forget that Ben & Jerry Ice cream freezer!  

Now this is something I don’t usually do, however for those of you wanting to check a little more on this venue, go to http://www.go2harveys.com  

JT & Claire look forward to your visit (I’m sure they will)!  

 
 

Bistro Aubergine – Great Sandy Straits Marina, Hervey Bay

To say this place is a hidden gem, really does not do it justice.  Service, food, atmosphere, everything is superb here!  Our biggest problem here?  We so wish this fabulous place was open for lunch & dinner as well as just breakfast.  In saying that, they do open at other times if the year, but during our visit it was breakfast only.

 
During our three night stay at The Mantra Hervey Bay, we visited Bistro Aubergine for all our breakfasts.  Located just outside the Mantra gate, with a charge back to the room, the menu had enough choice to cover everyone’s tastes.  Zucchini Fritters pictured above, were my first choice, and I have to say, a wonderful start to the day.  And that marina view, wow, awesome!

Not only was there coffee available, there was also a good choice of teas.  I made my way through the the herbal menu, tasting a peach infused tea as well as a couple of the others.  To be honest, it was lovely to have a choice of teas.  Yes they are teabags, but, to see all the tea and coffee accompanied by a lovely little gingerbread, put a smile on your face for the day.   

 According to hubby, the Cramel & Vanilla lattes he tried, were among the best ever.  Possibly that was the little gingerbread treat…I’m not sure 😄!

To cater for hubby’s tastes, he was delighted to find lambs fry, English fry up and savoury mince on the menu.   Ax it turned out, I enjoyed the savoury mince on one occasion, but he had two days where breakfast was the lambs fry.   Apparently the lambs fry was just too good to pass up – not saying there was anything wrong with the Engkish fry up either!! 

 The infamous lambs fry!

Most definitely recommend a visit here, the prices are reasonable, servings generous, fresh and very tasty.  The big added bonus, very friendly, personalised service!  Keep up the good work, we look forward to returning soon!

Below- one of the lightest, fluffiest omelettes I have ever tasted and the not too spicy, savoury mince.