A PASSION for Tapas has inspired the team behind Clouds Montville to introduce Tapas Afternoons at its stylish Bergin Lounge.
Tapas has been finding its mark in the hearts of diners and the Clouds directors have now brought some of their favourite foodie experiences – from Madrid to Barcelona and Sitges – to the hinterland.
Diners now not only get to enjoy the speciality plates in style but with the added bonus of panoramic coastal vistas from the Bergin Lounge.
“The concept of being able to enjoy shared plates of a variety of small plates was really appealing,” Clouds Director Kaye Smyth said.
“Even The Sunshine Coast Curated Plate event by-line, this year is -2022 sized plates.”
The Bergin Lounge Tapas Afternoons offer a wide range of plates to suit all tastes, but staff favourites are the Stuffed Pumpkin Flowers and the Pistachio, Lemon and Saffron Risotto Croquette.
“Most of us have memories of the old pork croquettes – but croquettes take a totally new life in a Tapas context,” Kaye said. Each dish is served with Clouds Gourmet Pantry sauce and relishes.
Diners have also been pleasantly surprised by the desserts, which include Green Tea Mascarpone Yuzu Tiramisu and Flourless Coffee Stones.
“They have to be tried to be believed,” Kaye said.
“Some initially balk at Green Tea Tiramisu – but just want more after their first taste.”
The Tapas menu takes the Clouds team in a new direction from its bistro offering so well received at The Barrel.
But one thing that doesn’t change is their focus on working with Queensland producers from wineries to gin distillers to food suppliers.
“Our philosophy of showcasing south-east Queensland carries through to all we have to offer in the likes of our award -winning gins produced by Beachtree Distillery on the Sunshine Coast, our produce and our meats, where our preference is to source locally,” Kaye said.
“And when many think of wine, they are more inclined to think Hunter Valley, Yarra Valley and so on. Queensland can be rightfully proud of the wines we produce. Our wines are mainly sourced from the Granite Belt.” Tapas Afternoons (Noon to 5pm) are held at Bergin Lounge at Clouds Montville each Friday, Saturday and Sunday, as well as public holidays.