THE SETTING Under 300 year old Melaleuca gums swaying in the sea breeze - looking out across the teak decking to the palms of the cove and the Coral Sea beyond.
THE MENU An eclectic choice of dishes from around the world - the Middle East, Southern Asia, the Mediterranean and beyond - created from the North’s unique produce and products.
THE WINE LIST Across 50 years the Reef House wine offerings have developed into an eclectic choice of some of Australia’s finest - The sommelier selects the best wines for their region as much as their style. The Reef House menus and chef’s unique global flavours are pivotal in the planning of the constantly evolving wine list. North Queensland’s tropical weather also plays a huge part in the choice of wines. Over 15 Varietals such as Grenache, Shiraz and Mourvedre are new additions while Sauvignon blanc and Pinot’s are also to the fore. Some wines of note are the Pipers Brook Reserve Chardonnay from Tasmania and the Shaw and Smith Sauvignon Blanc but there’s also the favourite of the ‘Pinot brigade’ in a Kooyong Pinot Noir from the Mornington Peninsula. International wines are also given the stage with wines from Italy, Spain and France.
The Champagne list has grown since the inaugural Reef House ‘Champagne’s of France’ event held annually now in June - and it now features the brilliant Pol Roger 99 vintage. The Tasmanian Jansz is another star as it has been named as one of the best sparkling wines in Australia and is listed with both cuvee and rose.
THE ACCOLADES In recognition of his high standards and his attention to the unique qualities of the local produce, Executive chef Philip Mitchell has won many accolades and restaurant awards - including the Gourmet Traveller Restaurant guide and the Queensland Food and Wine Guide. He has been invited to host Master-classes across Australia, has appeared on the Nine network’s ‘Today’ program and the Iain Hewitson cooking programs internationally and often appears at the National Good Food and Wine Shows.
The Sebel Reef House & Spa were proud recipients of the Best North Queensland Restaurant title at the 2008 Tropical North Queensland Tourism Awards, winning the Tourism Restaurant & Catering Services category.