Gold Coast Taste review: 8th Ave Terrace, Palm Beach

WITH fresh air and even fresher fare, this Palm Beach newcomer promises some epic summer sessions.

8th Ave Terrace’s whole rack of lamb. Photos: Steve Holland

IT’S shoulder-to-shoulder for Saturday sunset drinks on the open-air balcony at Palm Beach’s new hot spot, 8th Ave. Terrace.

The happy hum of conversation and clinking glasses drifts up to our perch at the top-level dining room, where my partner and I are ensconced on a bench heaped with striped cushions.

8th Ave Terrace’s slow rendered duck breast. Photos: Steve Holland

The big white windows are thrown open to the balmy breeze and the frothy pink clouds collecting over the ocean are a pastel match for my orange-sherbet of an Amaretto sour.

It doesn’t get much better.

The multi-level Hamptons-inspired space, from the creators of coffee hub Espresso Moto, is one of a growing number of lifestyle-led restaurants offering more than just a meal.

Where it stands above many of its counterparts is that it seems to be equally strong in all its parts.

While I love the relaxed vibe that characterises Coast dining, I’m a stickler for service and 8th Ave. delivers polish without sacrificing personality.

8th Ave Terrace’s chicken roulade. Photos: Steve Holland

Their booking system is easy and efficient — instant web bookings are managed by Dimmi and followed up with a courtesy call.

We recognise our waitress from Espana/Bistro Franc and she’s an absolute pro, with a clear passion for food.

There’s a sophisticated wine list and summery cocktails to accompany a well-rounded menu.

Get the party started with a round of fresh-shucked oysters ($20/six).

Heirloom tomato salad ($18) keeps things light and lovely, dressed with cabernet sauvignon vinegar, micro basil and smoked salt. The centrepiece is handmade Byron Bay burrata cheese, which has a firm shell and the most divine soft, creamy centre.

Fare at 8th Ave Terrace. Photos: Steve Holland

It’s a little bit naughty, but you won’t be sorry if you sneak in the pulled beef cheek hash brown ($7), which is set in a rich bechamel sauce and coated in crunchy panko crumbs.

For main, try the slow-rendered duck breast ($28) with a fresh, fruity finish from a pomegranate salad and redcurrant jus.

There’s a lot going for the fish and chips ($25), from the beautifully crisp and golden sesame beer batter to the choice of market fish — firm, white-fleshed gurnard from the west coast of New Zealand.

The sizeable plate also hosts a good, chunky tartare, rough-cut and fried kipflers to fill in for chips, and a fennel and white cabbage slaw to cut through the rich batter.

Vegetarians can go for baked Japanese eggplant ($26) in miso and tahini marinade.

The tropically themed finale is just as strong — banana-infused sticky date pudding in a big pool of even stickier caramel. It’s topped with flowers and a curl of toasted walnut and honey ice cream.

I can see 8th Ave. Terrace becoming a summer essential.

8TH AVE. TERRACE

31/1176 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach

Bookings: 8thaveterrace.com.au

Open: Wednesday to Sunday from 4pm until late