The allure of the sparkling azure water at Balmoral Beach explains why the queues are neverending at The Boathouse, which juts out into the bay on a jetty. We braved the crowds on one sunny Saturday morning and managed to score a seat inside.
The vibe of the place is laidback and breezy as befits its beachside location, but the menu is relatively pricey despite the casual decor. We start off with two coffees, the standard mocha for me and cappuccino for the boy – love the cute touch with the anchor coffee art!
Mocha and Cappuccino
For brunch we had opted for something a bit more fancy than we’re used to – Smoked Trout Pate with Toasted Brioche and a Prawn Omelette with Chilli Toast and Herb Salad. The boy absolutely loved the Smoked Trout Pate, a rich spread of creamy smoked fish flakes and herbs, which was just the right thing to smear on the toasted buttery brioche. The jar of pate looks deceptively manageable, but we struggled to finish it all and ended up overloading the second piece of brioche with all the remaining pate!
Smoked Trout Pate with Toasted Brioche, $17
The Prawn Omelette was presented nicely, but flavourwise was a bit less impressive than the Pate. I found the omelette a bit bland on its own, particularly as the small juicy prawns came on a skewer separately from the omelette itself. The Chilli Toast had a chutney like chilli spread on it which was delicious and I wish they could have incorporated that into the omelette itself more rather than simply having it on the crusty toast on the side.
Prawn Omelette with Chilli Toast and Herb Salad, $24
Thanks to its gorgeous beachside location, The Boathouse has plenty of fans and it’s a challenge to nab a seat. They certainly charge a premium for their gourmet fare and the privilege of enjoying the view, but I think I’ll be back to try out more of their extensive menu and to soak up the sunshine.
The Boathouse Balmoral Beach
2 The Esplanade, Balmoral Beach, NSW 2088
Ph: (02) 9968 4412
the smoked trout pate sounds delish
It’s great, but not always on the menu though!
I’ve been to the Boathouse at Palm Beach and love the fish and chips there. the pate with brioche sounds awesome!
Haven’t been to the Palm Beach one! Will need to go and compare 🙂
I’ve heard so much about Boathouse, but have never been! Trout pate would be deeeeelicious.
Worth a visit, but be prepared for the crowds!
the smoked salmon pate sounds really good! ( love all things salmon), have to check this place out soon!
Smoked Trout Pate with toasted Brioche … say no more! You’re lucky you got a seat! Each time I have been, there have been way too many people and my hungry belly will not allow me to wait that long!!