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Father's Day Dining 2010


It is almost that time of year again; that time between Christmas in July and Christmas at the regular point when people everywhere get together to celebrate the patriarch of the family's special day. This year, instead of the socks, goofy golf club head covers and long-on-effort, short-on-taste breakfast in bed, why not treat Dad to a nice meal at a restaurant that knows how to look after a man when he deserves to be spoilt? To help you in your quest, the team at yourRestaurants have put together a few places that go beyond the usual beer and steak at the local to make this year's day a memorable one for Dad.

1
 
Livebait
Docklands
Uninterrupted views out over Australia's newest artificially created harbour, brilliant mod-Oz seafood and a free beer for Dad — enough said. If your dad is the type to go a bit overboard with the Christmas crustaceans, then this place might just be right up his alley. The full menu is available for both lunch and dinner, and that complimentary beer on arrival will make him feel special.

2
 
Rockpool Bar and Grill
Sydney
Still relatively new on the Sydney scene, Rockpool Bar and Grill, sibling to Neil Perry's famous Melbourne restaurant, delivers on both the novelty and celebrity-chef fronts. The gorgeous, art deco setting is undeniably beautiful, and the great, classic food comes with just a touch of the modern Australian quirk that has made Perry famous.

3
 
Cha Cha Char Wine Bar & Grill
Brisbane
As one of Brisbane's best steak restaurants, Cha Cha Char delivers what you'd expect — but with the addition of a not-half-bad vegetarian menu for the less meat-inclined dad or offspring. The waterfront location is picture-perfect, and a wine list to match should make for a relaxing lunch.

4
 
The Stackings at Peppermint Bay
Woodbridge
The three-course Father's Day menu at Peppermint Bay, one of Tasmania's best restaurants, is sure to be a cracker. Overlooking the beautiful D'Entrecasteaux Channel across to Bruny Island, the dining room will impress your dad straight out of the gate. But when he sees the menu with the restaurant's trademark focus on local produce and fresh ingredients, he'll be even more delighted.

5
 
Yum Cha Dragon
Docklands
Try something different this Father's Day by treating Dad to a Chinese feast at one of Melbourne's best yum cha restaurants. Offering both a lunch and a dinner sitting, a Father's Day here will be one to remember, with glorious views, sumptuous food and a free beer for Dad on arrival.

6
 
British Hotel
North Adelaide
Neither you, your dad, your mum nor anyone you've ever met would be disappointed with Father's Day lunch at the something-for-everyone British Hotel. With cook-your-own steaks, a relaxed courtyard and a cosy dining room, it's not hard to see why it's famous for its Sunday afternoon vibes.

7
 
Nick's Bondi Beach Pavilion
Bondi Beach
Nick's Bondi Beach Pavilion provides everything your dad will want come Father's Day: great seafood, chargrilled steaks and a view over one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The simplicity of the food here means your dad won't be confused by fancy menus or foodie-speak. This is a good, honest, carnivorous place that's sure to please.

8
 
On the Terrace
Claremont
One for the more sophisticated fathers, On The Terrace will be hosting a full breakfast and lunch sitting for all the dads out there. The Mediterranean-influenced, mod-Oz menu is sure to impress the stylish gourmand dad, but you can also bring in Papa for tapas, afternoon tea or a quiet drink if you are after a more low-key affair.

9
 
Locanda Italian Steakhouse
City
Housed in the Rydges Lakeside, this is one for treating your Dad when he deserves something extra-special. With its selection of rustic, regional Italian cuisine and high-quality steaks, it is a sure-fire way to let Dad know how much he is appreciated.

10
 
The Windmill Restaurant
Alice Springs
Treat Dad to a gourmet spread at this Alice institution. If your dad is the type to occasionally overindulge, then this may be the place to take him; servings at the Windmill are notoriously oversized but happily don't compromise on taste, either.