When you’re on holiday, you know you’re in the right place when you spot the locals. As the resident chef of The Byron at Byron Resort and Spa (a position he’s held for over 11 years) it’s safe to say Scottish-born Gavin Hughes knows the coastal area like the back of his hand – including the best local eating and drinking spots around town. Here he reveals his top picks:
His favourite restaurant right now…
“I love the Belle General in East Ballina. The food is beautiful. What I like about this place is the food is healthy and on trend but they’re not trying too hard. And every time you go there you just get quality and good service. I love their granola bowl. They also make their own organic coconut yogurt served with seasonal berries.”
The best coffee spot…
“Foam Restaurant at Lennox Head, it’s owned by a good friend of mine. They serve All Press coffee and offer a view to die for.”
His top pick for a long lunch…
“My house on a Sunday afternoon. We light the camp fire and drink way too much wine.”
A favourite pub and Gavin’s drink of choice…
“Really love the Eltham Hotel. It’s a great spot and worth the detour. I’ll order a Stone and Wood local pale ale or the cider with finger lime from Byron Bay Wild Cider Company.”
Best spot for a quick bite or takeaway…
“Top Shop in Byron Bay. Any of their burgers are worthy.”
Best bakery and what to order…
“The best bakers are the cool lads at Bread Social [at The Farm]. Humble, talented and quirky, they make awesome artisan bakery goods. Everyone loves their snails [pastries] – crispy not soggy and so bloody tasty!”
The perfect day in Byron would look like this…
“Visiting the Byron Bay Farmers’ Market. Have Robert Costanzo [The Nomadic Kitchen] cook his breakfast utilising all things local. He’s a great guy and great chef and is so underrated. Then go visit Sarah and Jeremy from 100 Mile Table for a mid morning brownie and strong long black. Then onto Belongil Beach to watch the surfers at the wreck. Followed by the Beach Hotel for a few beers, then down to experience the bongo drummers [by Main beach] and embrace the falling sun.”
New restaurant to visit right now…
“Chef David Lovett at the renovated Byron Beach Cafe is doing cool, quality simple food that’s produce driving. [The Byron Beach Café] offers probably the best view in Byron. I really like the tuna ceviche.”
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