Restaurant and bar Ladybird Local has opened at Hope Island Shopping Centre, run by Restaurant Manager Arianna Giannarelli with Head Chef Aron Kann at the helm of the kitchen.
Ladybird Local prides itself on premium cuisine served in an everyday, relaxed atmosphere, with a menu showcasing locally sourced produce, from wines, cheeses, vegetables, seafood and meats, with 90 per cent of the restaurant’s produce being local or Australian farmed.
From gourmet pizzas to hand made pastas and an enviable naturally char grilled selection, the menu is extensive.
Kann says he takes inspiration for his dishes from the surrounds of Hope Island. “People dream of living in Hope Island with it’s architecturally designed homes nestled along the canals and the stylish locals who love to take advantage of this playground paradise,” said Kann. “We do our best to make sure our food and passion is reflective of the ‘locals-way’. After cooking for more than 25 years, I take inspiration from just about everything! From eating out, reading, watching cooking shows and of course the internet.”
The Chef’s favourite dish on the menu comes as no surprise, proving to be as delectable as it sounds. “My favourite dish on our menu is the slow braised lamb shoulder with pea puree. Any meat slow-braised is my favourite, especially one that almost dissolves in your mouth.”
Kann says location, quality of produce and a welcoming environment sets Ladybird Local apart from the Gold Coast’s dining scene, “but it’s the combination of all these things that make us special here at Ladybird”.
The Chef’s advice to budding chefs or restaurateurs is simple. “Be bold and open minded. Everything comes from your attitude towards food. Pushing the boundaries as a chef is a key factor, then a must is knowing your food and respect for what you do.”
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