Daniel White opens VIDA Mexican at Lowanna Beach Resort, Buddina
A love for the Sunshine Coast, the “boldness” of Mexican cuisine and 16 years of experience have come together in a new endeavour by a longtime Sunshine Coast resident.
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Two restaurants have announced their opening for a peaceful Sunshine Coast suburb, with hopes to become a “local icon” for the region’s community.
Daniel White opened his restaurant VIDA Mexican at the Lowanna Beach Resort in Buddina on April 23 this year.
He described his new venue as an elevated and relaxed space with terracotta tones and natural textures in a blend of modern design and “Mexican warmth”.
“Somewhere you can step into straight off the beach for a cocktail, or dress up a little for a celebration,” Mr White said.
Guests are offered indoor or outdoor dining options as well as a bar area “perfect for cocktails and casual gatherings”.
Opening the Buddina restaurant was the “natural next step” after Mr White’s 16 years working in the hospitality industry.
He most recently worked as a group executive chief for two successful Sunshine Coast restaurants and built a career in providing high-quality dining experiences.
Mr White described VIDA Mexican as an opportunity to channel all his knowledge and passion into a venue of his own.
“It’s about taking everything I’ve learned over the years – all the great kitchens, the teams, the wins, the lessons – and putting it into something fresh and fun,” he said.
“I’ve always loved Mexico and the boldness of Mexican food and drink, and I wanted to share that here on the Coast in a way that still feels true to who we are as locals.”
Having grown up on the Sunshine Coast and now with a young family of his own, opening a local venue to bring people together “really made sense” to Mr White.
He said the people, team energy, restaurant buzz and returning guests were what he loved the most since opening, and what made it all “worthwhile”.
“I really want VIDA to be somewhere that feels good, not just for our guests but for the team too,” Mr White said.
“If people love working here, everything else follows.
“Long term, I’d love VIDA to become a bit of a local icon – a place people return to for the food, the atmosphere, and the experience.”
The Dosa Hut Indian’s Sunshine Coast restaurant is also anticipated, with its opening scheduled for May 8 at 5 Lutana St, Buddina.
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