Ever wanted to try a Vietnamese Pork Belly and Prawn Pancake? I think it only entered my mind when I was watching this season's My Kitchen Rules. Hearing spiteful comments about the lack of skill in serving an omelette and much controversy about prawn shells being left on, I wondered what this would taste like. Apparently, this is how they serve it authentically! As it turns out, I found myself in the Sing Sing Restaurant located in West End, and what should be on the Weekend Special? So I had a go! I haven't mastered how to eat this properly and the portions were huge - but great value for those who want to try! It isn't an omelette at all as the outside is made of rice flour and the colour comes from tumeric. The way to eat it is to place the crunchy pancake within the provided lettuce leaves and drizzle the dressing on top. Enjoy! And for those who would like to try and make it at home, I have found the recipe here for you.
On the way to the Fortitude Valley Markets, I walk through Chinatown and was bemused by the large amount of people giggling whilst they watched a lady cooking. I stood still for a few minutes, listening to her hold their attention by teaching them to count and name ingredients in Cantonese, loudly, humorously. As the audience was so captivated and I was just given a recipe, I sat down and enjoyed the rest of the experience. The lady in front introduced herself as a home cook and walked the audience through cooking a good Fried Rice and Sweet and Sour Spare Ribs in two ways.
The aromas whet our appetites and eventually, when the food was ready, we eagerly line up to grab a portion for our taste-testing. These classes take place every Saturday from midday to 1:30pm.
I wanted to know where I stand. What is going on? Which part is how you are choosing to act? and which part is a reflection of what you're going through? I hear the guy upstairs breathing as he sleeps at night - it offers me comfort and lulled my heart into a well-deserved peaceful sleep, if only for a night.
Other fun Brisbane Events can be found at:
Making Cosplay Wings with Frances Foo at Brisbane Square Library;
BrisStyle indie Twilight markets in King George Square, Brisbane City; and
"Girl Clock" at Brisbane Library
After the delirium of giggles we drummed up from taking silly photos, our tummies told us it was time for food. The menu at the Burleigh Heads Surf Club was large in range and it meant that we could keep enjoying views of the beach and continue to breathe in that sea air. As we ordered from a short-tempered girl behind the counter, I noticed that the place could do with a bit of a clean - a few sticky tables and cutlery and water stations in need of restocking and polishing. The club saw an increase of visitors as 5pm rolled in, particularly the ones that had reserved the outdoor tables. The food turned out to be of great quality - my Spaghetti Marinara was generous both in proportions and amounts of seafood, and my friend enjoyed a juicy Steak.
Where else could I have eaten up at the Gold Coast?
Lust in Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast;
At the many restaurants at the RACV Royal Pines Resort; and
To Fishy Adventures at Sea World.
When colleagues find out I live in the city, their first
reaction is to say “Wow! You’re in amongst it all!” It’s really amusing to me
because, unlike Sydney and Melbourne, nothing much is open on weeknights or
even on the weekends (even most gyms!). Intrigued, I found out from many locals that most people
go to the Gold Coast or the Sunshine Coast on the weekends. Many even live out
that way and commute to Brisbane for work.
Easter was a four day holiday so I took up an invitation to
have a little break by going to the Gold Coast. A honk from a cruising car welcomed
us, along with the fresh breezes from the sea air nearby. Tourists had already
found their place at the cafes on the main strip of Broadbeach, Surf Parade, but we managed to find a cosy little table for brunch at Lust Cafe and
Restaurant. I thoroughly enjoyed my food despite a little mistake the
waitstaff made in their ordering but the owner rectified it and I walked away
happy.
What else can I do on the Gold Coast? Head to:
Seafood and Sea Breezes at the Burleigh Heads Surf Club;
To Fishy Adventures at Sea World! and;
On the way up to O'Reilly's on the Gold Coast Hinterland.
Taking in views of the Brisbane River with its water glistening in the sun, I enjoyed my lunch at George's Paragon with a dear friend of mine who had driven up from the Gold Coast for a visit. We didn't make it on time for the half-price lunch but had fun catching up on each other's lives, both past and present. I found it amazing how we just slotted back into our friendship, reminding me of the old days, when we'd keep talking in the dark during our sleepovers until one of us fell asleep. It was so refreshing to hear someone talk without any barriers and I found such comfort in finally being heard and understood, especially in a strange new city. We even ordered the same dish on the menu! I've eaten here before and we both agree that it's a great place to go to for some good quality food. Sometimes the service may take a little longer but, for me, the waitstaff are so pleasant it makes up for it.
:) You used to tell me so many things from the moment we met - that's how my affection developed for you. I found you endearing. Your openness and honesty earnt my trust. And in between your words, I found you insightful and intelligent enough to make a real connection.
What other places deserve a try in Brisbane? Choose from:
Vietnamese Pork Belly and Prawn Pancake at Sing Sing West End, Brisbane;
Birthday Dinner at Beccofino Newstead, Brisbane; and
On an Oasis at the Stokehouse on South Bank.
