A Friday Night at Dundee's Restaurant at the Cairns Aquarium

The anticipation of a Friday night dinner at Dundee’s Restaurant at the Cairns Aquarium was palpable as our party of six, including a lively 4.5-year-old, arrived at this unique dining destination. The year is 2024, and the Cairns Aquarium, with its vast array of marine life, provides an enchanting backdrop for an evening of culinary delights. The aquarium’s 70,000-litre saltwater tank, teeming with vibrant marine life, set the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.

As we stepped into Dundee’s, the atmosphere was immediately welcoming. The restaurant’s contemporary design, coupled with the mesmerizing view of the aquarium, created a serene yet exciting ambiance. The staff greeted us warmly and guided us to our table, strategically placed to offer a panoramic view of the aquatic wonders behind the glass. The sight of colorful reef fish darting through the water, alongside majestic rays and sharks, was nothing short of magical.

Drinks to Start the Evening

Our evening began with a round of drinks from the bar. The adults indulged in a selection of beverages: a crisp white wine, a bourbon and coke served in a tall glass, and a rum and coke. For the table, we also had sparkling water to keep us refreshed throughout the meal. Each drink was crafted to perfection, setting a relaxed tone for the night ahead.

Entrees: A Taste of Freshness

For entrees, we decided to share a couple of classic starters: bruschetta and garlic bread. The bruschetta was a delightful assembly of garlic sourdough topped with cherry tomatoes, balsamic roasted red onion, feta, wild rocket, and basil pesto. Each bite was a burst of fresh, tangy flavors that paired beautifully with our drinks. The garlic bread, warm and buttery, was a comforting start to our meal, with its rich aroma filling the air.

Mains: A Seafood Feast

The main courses were the highlight of our dining experience. Our group chose a variety of dishes, each showcasing the finest seafood and pasta Dundee’s had to offer.

1. Fish & Chips: We ordered two variations – one crumbed and one battered. The crumbed fish was golden and crispy, while the battered option had a light, crunchy coating. Both were served with seasoned fries and a mixed leaf salad, accompanied by a zesty lime mayo that added a refreshing twist

2. Tiger Prawn Spaghetti: This dish featured succulent tiger prawns sautéed with smoked bacon and mushrooms, tossed in a choice of olive oil or cream. The combination of flavors was exquisite, with the prawns perfectly cooked and the sauce rich and indulgent.

3. Smoked Chicken Fettuccine: A hearty option, this fettuccine was tossed with pulled smoked chicken, bacon, mushrooms, and rocket in a creamy white wine sauce. The smokiness of the chicken complemented the creamy sauce, making each bite a comforting delight.

4. Seafood Spaghetti: This dish was a seafood lover’s dream, featuring sautéed prawns, scallops, calamari, mussels, and half a bugtail, all tossed in garlic, chili, and white wine. The medley of seafood was fresh and flavorful, with each ingredient adding its unique taste to the dish.

Kaison, our young diner, enjoyed sampling a bit of everything. He particularly loved the fish and chips, as well as the garlic bread, making the meal a family-friendly affair.

The Aquarium Experience

As we savored our meals, the aquarium provided a continuous visual feast. The sight of leopard sharks, white tip reef sharks, and giant groupers gliding gracefully through the water was mesmerizing. The vibrant coral and schools of fish added a dynamic backdrop to our dinner, making the experience all the more special. The Cairns Aquarium, with its diverse ecosystems from the Wet Tropics Rainforest to the Great Barrier Reef, offered a glimpse into the rich marine life of Tropical North Queensland.

Professional and Courteous Staff

The staff at Dundee’s were exceptional. Their professionalism and courteous demeanor enhanced our dining experience. They were attentive without being intrusive, ensuring our glasses were always full and our needs promptly met. Their knowledge of the menu and willingness to accommodate special requests made us feel well cared for throughout the evening.

A Glimpse into Desserts

Although we didn’t indulge in desserts, Dundee’s dessert menu was tempting. From the decadent Chocolate Sensation, featuring a mini lava pudding and dark chocolate panna cotta, to the tropical Pineapple and Coconut Tart, each option promised a sweet ending to any meal. The Sticky Date and Ginger Pudding, with its toffee sauce and vanilla bean gelato, sounded particularly inviting. Next time, we vowed to save room for these delightful treats.

Conclusion: A Memorable Dining Experience

Dining at Dundee’s Restaurant at the Cairns Aquarium was a fantastic experience. The combination of excellent food, professional service, and the mesmerizing aquarium setting made for an unforgettable evening. Each dish was a testament to the culinary expertise of the chefs, and the vibrant marine life provided a unique and captivating backdrop.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a meal at Dundee’s is an experience not to be missed. The memories of this Friday night dinner will linger long after the last bite, reminding us of the wonders of the ocean and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones.

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