Forest Feast at Harry’s on Buderim
If you like your outings with a side of scenery and a seriously good meal, Rebecca Jamieson Dwyer has uncovered the walk-and-dine combo you’ll want to try.
If you’ve ever wandered through Buderim Forest Park on a warm day – spotting sunbeams through the trees, listening for birds, and soaking up the magic of nature – you’ll know that the best part of the walk comes afterwards. Because just a few steps away from the entrance is Harry’s on Buderim: the dining destination that transforms a pleasant morning stroll into a properly delicious day out.
Set inside a restored 1880s Queenslander perched at the edge of the rainforest, Harry’s has the perfect blend of history, charm and a very welcome breeze drifting across the verandah. It’s long been a favourite for special occasions, but this summer the team is encouraging locals and visitors to rediscover it as the perfect hike-and-hunger lunch destination – tranquil stroll first, excellent meal second. Walking shoes welcome!
Head Chef and Patron Stuart Bell has just launched the new summer menu, and he says it’s full of the bright, fresh produce this time of year is known for.
“Stonefruit and asparagus are absolute heroes in summer,” he says. “They bring so much colour and texture to a dish, you can build entire plates around them.”
When it comes to entrées, the Salad of Marinated Goat’s Cheese is a standout, teamed with new-season asparagus, freekeh and slow-roasted blueberries.
The Fremantle Octopus Salad is light and full of clever details – Noosa Reds tomatoes, almond purée, roasted leek; while the Charred Mooloolaba Prawns arrive with a pink grapefruit emulsion that zings on the tastebuds.
On the mains front, there’s plenty on offer for hungry hikers: the Coral Coast Barramundi comes with roasted and puréed cauliflower, plus a lemon myrtle and macadamia emulsion that ties everything together like a treat!
The Lamb Rump is charred and deeply flavourful, served with eggplant hummus and confit tomatoes; and the Confit Duck Leg pairs perfectly with sautéed corn and roast nectarine. Even the vegan dishes – especially the Charred Broccoli and Zucchini with eggplant hummus and toasted walnuts – are alive with creativity and flavour.
For something sweet, the Mango Mousse ticks all the boxes – creamy mousse, crunchy macadamia streusel, caramelised pineapple and crisp kataifi; and the Vanilla Bean and Mango Ripple Ice Cream will give you the sugar-hit you need (and deserve) after all that exercise.
The wine list has something for everyone with a range of quality Australian labels and thoughtful international picks – or keep things light and spritzy with the selection of local spirits behind the bar. An icy G&T combined with that stunning verandah view? The perfect way to reward your outdoorsy efforts!
As always, the service is warm and relaxed, encouraging you to linger longer and soak up the unique ambience of this special location.
Summer also happens to be prime function season at Harry’s. The wraparound verandah is beautiful for long lunches, while the Fire Room offers a more intimate option.
Combine the Fire Room with the round Chef’s Table and you can host up to 34 guests – perfect for celebrations, small weddings, milestone birthdays or an end-of-year gathering to remember.
Wine clubs and visiting wineries often book the space, with Stuart designing special menus to match whatever is being poured. Corkage is available for private groups, making it an easy, enjoyable way to explore a collection without lifting a finger in the kitchen.
Corporate groups are very well looked after too. Harry’s caters to all industries, offering a professional setup and hassle-free approach with space for workshops or presentations on the big-screen TV plus with reliably excellent food and service with bespoke menus to suit. Keen to book your own function? Packages and pricing are available online or chat to the team.
So if you’re looking for a stunning Sunshine Coast day out, why not walk through the forest park, admire the impressive waterfall, and then reward yourself with lunch on the verandah at Harry’s on Buderim?
It’s the very definition of summer dining.
BOOK YOUR SUMMER FUNCTION AT HARRY’S
Whether it’s a wine club, a celebration, a corporate event or something else, simply sit back, enjoy the ambience, and let the expert team at Harry’s on Buderim take care of everything. See the website or contact the team for packages and booking details!
