The Eatery by CK: Review: Aquacaf

Aquacaf
Barrage Rd, Goolwa
(08) 8555 1235
www.aquacaf.com.au

Fresh food by the water.....

There is something incredibly alluring about Aquacaf at Goolwa. Whether it's the causal atmosphere, the location by the water, or the lightness about the venue, I always know I'm going to get superb, fresh and wholesome food. It simply feels good eating the food there.
The light and airy kiosk come cafe has such a refreshingly relaxed feel and you can't help but feel like you're on a summer holiday.
A big plus, and something which seems to be a lot harder to come across these days, was the service. It was outstanding. The wait staff looking after our table were casual yet very attentive and helped facilitate what was overall a great lunch.
Between 2 people we shared the Tasting Plate which would actually be better shared with 3 or 4. My only criticism of the meal was that although the individual components of the tasting plate were really enjoyable, each item had quite an intensity of flavour, so the whole plate together with so many robust flavours, was actually a bit of a overload on the taste buds. The plate included things like roast pumpkin, bread, dip, tomato, relish, cheese, ham, chickpeas, mussels, labna, chicken, and egg. Each item was prepared in an individual and unique way and was undoubtedly nice on its own, but as previously mentioned, altogether it was just that bit too much of a flavour overload.
We also had the Fish Broth which was fantastic. It was full of all sorts of seafood and vegetables and in keeping with the style of the food at Aquacaf, it was intense with a multitude of flavours, mainly brought about with fresh herbs and spices.
A dish which seems to be a constant on the changing menu is the Fattoush Salad. While I did not eat it on this occasion, on a previous visit to Aquacaf this was undoubtedly a highlight and what inspired me to cook my own version (see my recipe section). Hands down one of the best salads I have eaten, full of fresh produce, loads of herbs and of course synonymous with fatoush, the crispy flat bread pieces. Delish!
Most main meals are in the $20+ range and you absolutely get your monies worth. Unfortunately we stopped short of ordering any more food as the serves are big, the flavours bold and in general the type of food that is really contenting and satisfying. There was an Asian Salad on the menu which will definitely get a look in next time.

Of all the things I look for when I eat out, if the food has a freshness, is simple and makes me feel healthy and contented then I'll be back for more. This is most certainly the case with Aquacaf.

The Eatery by CK