I was invited to head out of Sydney for a day trip to check out a venue that had being causing buzz, headed by Mike Tomasic, Rhonda’s is the Central Coast’s arguably coolest new tapas bar & cocktail lounge. So joined by my good friend Mel Port from Mia Cucina we headed off on our #Dayventure to discover Rhonda’s, and stay the night at The Star of The Sea the uber cool 5 star accommodation located in Terrigal.
Rhonda’s is Cool, Funky and Relaxed with a menu of Tapa’s style food that takes inspiration from all parts of the globe, from the White Miso Blue Eye Cod served with Tempura Cauliflower to The Braised Wagyu Beef, the Saltwater Crocodile Sliders & the Gorgonzola Dolce & Ricotta stuffed Zucchini Flowers each dish imparts bolts of flavour deliciously dancing across your palette.
Lets not forget that Mike Tomasic has been dubbed ‘King of Cocktails’, following last year’s win at the 2014 Angostura Global Cocktail Challenge against the world’s best bartenders held in Trinidad and Tobago, and his 16 + years working in all corners of the globe.
Now, Mike brings his fervour for concoctions to Terrigal with a recent sea-change that has seen him move from Bondi Beach landmark bar and dining, Mr Moustache. It’s a huge coup for the Central Coast, with the region’s continually evolving ding and bar scene, catering to a more sophisticated experience for locals, day-trippers and weekend travellers from Sydney and further afar.
“Rhonda’s was designed as a venue that the owners actually wanted to hang out in with their family and friends – a warm, comfortable and inviting locale that lacked pretention – a special meeting place to bring people together,” said Mike.
“I’ve been on the Coast many times over the years; I have always loved the feel of the area and its people, so the thought of relocating to the region for work really excited me. The small bar community is still in its infancy on the Central Coast, which is super exciting. So far the feedback for Rhonda’s has been amazing, the local support has been fantastic, and I look forward to getting to know the locals and travellers from Sydney and afar – delivering cocktails on the Coast to rock their socks!”
Rhonda’s has not skimped on the fine detail, with its menu of bespoke cocktails, using a range of products that meet the venue’s strict criteria in terms of ethics, sustainability and integrity. Drinks are served with ice using 28mm cubes, often seen in Sydney bars, though still rare on the Central Coast. Soon, they will possess a new ice machine that will produce little diamonds for their bespoke collection of drinks.
Mike’s signature cocktails include:
- D’Vine– one of Mike’s award-winning cocktails that saw him fly to the south of France in mid-2013 to compete in the G’Vine Global Cocktail Finals. G’Vine gin, apricot brandy, peach, lemon, egg white for a soft velvety texture, feeling like you’re drinking little clouds.
- Apple Pie– who doesn’t love Apple Pie? Fireball cinnamon whiskey, fresh green apple a la minute, fresh citrus, mint and a funky striped straw – an absolute banger!
- Spiced Banana Old Fashioned – A grown-up version of a banana smoothie, sans dairy. Angostura rum infused with banana, St Elizabeth Allspice Dram, cinnamon syrup, Angostura bitters.
- Japanese Michelada – Japan meets Mexico in this variation on the atypical Mexican. A spicy beer cocktail that first became popular in northern Mexico. The cocktail’s name is derived from “mi chela helada” or “my cold, light beer” and as the name suggests, is a perfect summer revitalizer as it ticks all the boxes. A little spicy, filling from the beer, and is packed with nutrient dense fresh citrus and Clamato juice. Asahi beer, fresh citrus, Clamato juice, and Rhonda’s secret blend of spices.
Mid week, diners at Rhonda’s can enjoy tasty Tapas Tuesday dishes for $8, while Thursday brings a fiesta vibe with Thursday Paella plates for $16 served with salad. Stay in the loop with Rhonda’s promotional activity, via Facebook: www.facebook.com/rhondasbar
For more on Rhonda’s:
Website:
www.rhondas.bar
Address: 3 – 5 Kurrawyba Avenue, Terrigal , NSW Central Coast
Phone: 02 4385 3100
Rhonda’s opening hours: Tuesday – Thursday, from 5pm
Friday – Sunday, from 4pm
by Arrnott Olssen
Editor Rogue Homme
[ Thanks to Rhonda’s & Star of the Sea for the Rogue Love ]
