Toowoomba is Queensland’s Garden City – so you won’t find a better spot to picnic among the petals this September. Throw a blanket in a basket, head up the Range and you’re in for an alfresco treat.
As part of Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers 2020, the city is serving up #trEATS – short for Toowoomba region eats. Participating restaurants and cafes have signed up to create one-of-a-kind gourmet dishes to go – for just $20 a pop – all through September.
Cobb’s Café at the city’s popular Cobb & Co Museum is putting Spring lamb within the reach of picnickers. Its stunning dish features Za’tar marinated local Brannock Brae lamb; Wilgavale organic beetroot; chargrilled nectarine cheeks; and a herb-infused quinoa and fetta salad with a Bunnycollen caramelized balsamic glaze. In short: takeaway transformed into a culinary triumph!
For something a little less formal, but way more traditional, head to Phat Burger in Ruthven Street.
This funky burger joint has crafted a #trEAT that pays homage to the indigenous people of the region. We’re talking Yakajirri rubbed brisket; Lillipilly chutney; onion rings and Warrigal greens, served on a ciabatta with locally grown Kumara wedges.
Where’s the best place to tuck into your bush tucker burger? In Toowoomba – there’s a virtual feast of fabulous green spaces where you can pull up your own personal stretch of grass.
Queens Park is – of course – the city’s crowning glory. But lovely Laurel Bank Park is another favourite with locals and visitors.
No matter where you choose to spread your picnic rug, Toowoomba’s parks will be the focal point for fun and floral colour throughout the carnival.
At Queens Park, four artists – including Stacey Blinco – are chalking up a first for the festival: creating instant footpath art. There’s sure to be a recurring floral theme!
And speaking of ‘pretty as a picture’, foodies will love what’s on the menu for #trEATS at Fitzy’s in Margaret Street.
The chef there has created a fantasy confection – a deconstructed pavlova to share, featuring hand-crafted rosewater marshmallows, edible flowers and an avalanche of berries.
This insta-worthy dessert is also something of a delicate flower – so, to indulge, you’ll need to dine in at Fitzy’s.
All meals on the #trEATS program are just $20 a pop – which means the trifecta of food, flowers and fabulous Toowoomba is well within everyone’s reach this Spring.
