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The Belongil: The New Multi-Venue Dining Precinct Set To Define Byron Bay This Summer
Shannon Bennett i
The word ‘considered’ is often bandied about as a descriptor, but when it comes to Australian chef and author Shannon Bennett’s new Byron Bay dining precinct, there’s no greater fit. Years in the making, and even more in the mind, this culinary haven feels both timely and essential.
Self-described in an Instagram post as a “disruptive multi-venue dining destination”, The Belongil comprises four distinct venues, connected by a conceptual thread. This thread represents “a return to curiosity. To instinct. To trust”, in an effort to give new meaning to the word hospitality, observed in the venue’s most elevated offering, Feu, that adheres to a “choose your own journey” approach, right through to the grab-and-go takeaway available at the Kiosk.
“There should be something for everyone in the community: from dog walkers, surfers and backpackers to those celebrating their big night out once a year”, Bennett shares in an Instagram post. And that’s exactly what you can expect.
Collaboration is central to the concept. The products of a network of local makers and producers, painstakingly sourced over the last year, are woven throughout each menu, whilst each individual plate has been handcrafted by Potter Samuel Gordon. The Belongil and fashion brand Song For The Mute have even curated a capsule collection for staff. Considered feels apt.
The Belongil: Feu
Feu is the fine diner of the four. As a counter to the inflexibility of the set menu, Feu is offering diners a chance to build their own menu for the night. Begging for a challenge, the directive to guests is “three, five or seven courses. Decide the order”. You choose the hero ingredient and the chefs work their magic, in a theatrical, intimate and moodily lit setting.
Crucially, this tailors to all dietary requirements too, with guests able to share allergies, intolerances and dislikes prior to preparation.
You can even preview the ingredients list here, each of which has a story from the team’s extensive travels up the East Coast of Australia. Think big proteins like fresh Bangalow pork, Flame Tail snapper and Blue Mussels, right through to staples of strawberry, cheese and asparagus. There are plenty of delicacies thrown in too, with caviar and emu egg just two possibilities.
A change of pace for the industry, this dynamic and creative take promises to bring storytelling, creativity and connection to the fore.
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The Belongil: Belongil Bistro
In a change of pace, Belongil Bistro is set to be your new third place, the lounge room hangout of locals. Sustainability is key, and travels from the menu through to the repurposed materials used to construct the restaurant.
The Bistro is a place where Australian ingredients are reclaimed and transformed into foods that feel both everyday and extraordinary. Like ‘Clarence River’ prawn dogs, smothered in smoked burger sauce, spanner crab cocktails and olive oil poached swordfish steak, finished with mango and coconut rice drizzled in warm pandan honey.
The Belongil: Kiosk
Premium functionality is the aim of the game at the Kiosk, from the brutalist-inspired architecture, to the refined menu of daily staples. Designed to be a part of your daily or weekly rotation, Kiosk is for your morning coffee and your toastie on the go.
As per The Belongil’s conceptual roots, providence is key. Expect butter from Coppertree Farm, local eggs and a cabinet full of housebaked treats. The menu is also designed for on-the-go nourishment with premium takeaway grain jars and bowls, overnight oats and even a vending machine stocked with breakfast bars, matcha, coconut coffee and more.
The Belongil: Blind Tiger
The most enigmatic of the four venues, Blind Tiger is shrouded in mystery. Described by the group as “an enclave for those who seek exclusivity and intrigue” and a member only login present on their homepage, we’re looking forward to learning more, but also appreciate the intrigue — a rare thing!
In a moment of time when choice is rife, attention divided and a desire for connection is palpable, the arrival of The Belongil feels exciting, hopeful and innovative. Bring on this “sensory universe”.
The Belongil is slated to open on Monday 15th December with bookings already open.
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