By Kylie Mitchell-Smith www.travellingsenorita.com
The latest food offering to hit Brisbane town is The Lex (formerly the home of the popular ‘Three Blue Ducks’) taking pride of place in the iconic W Brisbane Hotel. The Lex is a New York inspired grill, popping up in prime real estate, the restaurant overlooks the Brisbane River and mountain vistas beyond.
The Lex, situated on level three is the hotels signature restaurant and champions local produce from across the region, with a distinct international twist. The contemporary fit-out captures the regions natural surrounds, with floor to ceiling glass, open plan dining and a cutting-edge lounge bar for pre- dinner cocktails.
Talented chef Pawel Klodowski has curated a playful menu that fuses New York style with Australian fare. We try starters, such as a Freemantle Octopus Hotdog, and a firm favourite Grilled Mooloolaba Prawn Eclairs, with chilli and celeriac remoulade.
Delicious entrees that could pass as mains include cured Tasmanian Ocean Trout with soy and mirin, avocado, pickles and yuzu-miso and Smoked Maple and Bourbon Pork Belly.
It’s the eclectic fusion of flavours that makes The Lex a unique dining experience, coupled with the most sublime views across the water to Southbank. The warm, dark hue interiors create the moody aesthetic, softened by plush, contemporary furnishings- the venue is as decadent as it is relaxed.
While at a New York Style Grill, we simply must try the Dry-Aged Tomahawk Steak with wild-garlic jus, from just down the road in Warwick. Along with a Free-Range Gooralie Pork Cutlet with chimichurri and braised endive. For lovers of the sea, we can’t go past the macadamia crusted Rocky Point Cobia with buttermilk and tarragon, it’s all delicious.
Topped off by a divine Floral Pavlova for dessert, a light coconut meringue that bursts with fresh berries- a true work of art. The curated cocktail and wine list is threaded with local distillers and fine wines and complements the dining menu- The Lex has added another bow to Brisbane’s burgeoning food scene.
