The ECSC Guide: Lanai Riverside, Noosaville

A New Benchmark on the River

There are plenty of great spots along Gympie Terrace, but every now and then, a restaurant not merely opens - it becomes a favourite. That certain confidence, the perfect room, the menu you can’t stop thinking about.

That place is Lanai.

Bar and kitchen, open to view.

Don't let the relaxed, breezy vibe fool you. This is a serious food destination, and that's largely thanks to the talent and experience of Executive Chef Ryan Fitzpatrick. He's a chef with a fascinating story, having honed his craft at the hatted, highly influential Press Club in Melbourne before returning to Noosa with a stint at Berardos on the Beach. He then went on to Rickys River Bar and Restaurant as Sous Chef, and then spent six years cheffing on super yachts. That world-class experience, combined with a deep passion for local Sunshine Coast produce, is evident in every single dish. After years cheffing for high-profile clients, he returned home to co-found The Ohana Group with his wife, Rashi, with Lanai being their flagship restaurant. It's this pedigree, grounded in a genuine love for the region, that makes the food here so special.

Noosa Eat&Drink Director John Aitken with Executive Chef Ryan Fitzpatrick

It's this world-class pedigree, grounded in a genuine love for the region, that makes the food here so special.

The perfect spot for a long lunch. A beautiful, light-filled room across from the river.

Lanai Noosaville. Walks the Walk.

The room is beautiful - light, airy, and across from the Noosa river - the menu is a modern, creative affair built for sharing. While there for the media launch of Noosa Eat & Drink, we sampled some of the menu served up at Noosa's favourite festival. The prawn sanga ... it's the essence of simplicity and a dish that never goes out of style.

We tried the irresistible lamb ribs with Noosa Black Garlic, Vegemite aioli, curry leaf and Szechuan pepper...

as well as Shark Bay scallops topped with curry butter and a green apple chapeau.

For those who want the full experience, the "Island" set menu offers a fantastic journey, kicking off with Smoked Barramundi Croquettes and showcasing the best of the kitchen. Be aware though, the menu evolves with the seasons and the very best local produce available.

The service is exactly what it should be: friendly, sharp, and the servers happy to talk you through it all.

If you know, you know.

The Insider Tip: Look, just order the Mooloolaba Prawn Sanga. It's a taste and textural sensation. With crisps, pickled onion and lemon myrtle mayo, it’s the perfect two bites and pretty much sums up everything that makes locals and visitors coming back for more.

Our Final Say: Lanai has that perfect mix of "barefoot elegance' with food that is absolutely top-tier. It's a genuine standout on the Noosa dining scene and Chef Fitzpatrick and his team are keeping it that way.

For bookings, head to the Lanai Noosa website.