Eats, beats and bevs with Southern California vibes
I’d heard that Feisty Flamingo was the new local hotspot for tasty tapas-style dishes, delicious cocktails, and the coolest tunes in town; it turns out my source was reliable!
One Friday evening, a foodie-friend and I were drawn towards the flamingo signage by the upbeat tunes and an aroma that screamed, ‘Delicious.’
Feisty Flamingo is colourful and intimate, decorated in hues of pink and blue, with the warmth of wood and velvet, and greenery (including cactus plants) adding freshness. Not to mention the flamingos adorning the walls!
“Think Palm Springs meets Miami,” explains owner Louise Hanisch. “That’s the whole feel of the venue; sunny by day but more like Miami Vice once the sun goes down.”
Louise used to run a pilates studio, but felt like a change. Opening Feisty Flamingo in August was a good move. If you try the food, you’ll know why!
“The menu is Southern Californian, with influences of Spanish, Caribbean and Mexican,” Louise says. “The dishes are fresh, flavoursome and fun. Nothing is too complex, but everything has a slight twist.”
My mouth watered as the food arrived, looking fresh and vibrant. Louise says that even the meat-eaters love the cauliflower steak. One bite of this melt-in-your-mouth dish and this meat-eater was a convert. A whole cauliflower is seasoned, roasted and topped with coriander, pickled red onions and romesco with peppers and confit garlic.
We also shared crispy fish tacos, battered hoki served with jalapeno mayo and house made guacamole, which was also delicious, as was the evening special of tiger prawns with ensalada de pina and mojito mayo. The prawns were fresh and succulent, and the jalapeño mayo had a nice kick of chilli without overpowering the dish.
My margarita was perfect, as was our dessert – warm cinnamon churros served with a warm chilli chocolate sauce – a perfect combo.
Enjoy dinner Thursday to Sunday and lunch Friday to Sunday, and try the popular agave and thyme halloumi or slow-cooked brisket with chipotle barbeque sauce. Guoc and tostados might also tempt your taste buds.
Pop along for a lazy breakfast or brunch from Friday to Sunday, and the pina colada granola or dulce banana waffles will make your weekend even better!
Feisty Flamingo 10 Orchard Road, Brookvale 0435 021 789 feistyflamingo.com.au
