Our recent afternoon visit to Waterside Restoration & Bar at Solaire Resort offered a serene and refined dining experience, without the evening’s usual live performances. In the quiet calm of the day, the restaurant’s stunning interiors and airy ambiance provided the perfect backdrop for a leisurely lunch that allowed the food to take center stage.
We began with the Green Goddess Salad, a refreshing start that set the tone for the meal. The combination of chickpeas, cucumber, and fennel provided a lovely balance of textures, while the crispy quinoa added a satisfying crunch. The lemon zest and dill infused a bright, herbaceous flavor, making each bite vibrant and refreshing. It was a light yet substantial salad that felt like a perfect midday indulgence.
The Tuna Tartare followed, offering a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. The tuna itself was fresh and velvety, while the tobiko added a delightful pop with each bite. The dynamite sauce brought just the right amount of heat, enhancing the tartare without overwhelming it. Paired with crispy nori rice crackers, it created a harmonious blend of crunch and creaminess, making it one of the standout starters.
Next came the Beef Croquette, which were crispy, golden-brown bites of perfection. The rich, flavorful beef filling was elevated by the deep umami of black garlic, while the horseradish provided a sharp, peppery kick that cut through the richness. The croquettes were wonderfully balanced and satisfying, offering a comforting start to the meal.
Surprisingly, one of the highlights from the starters was the Chargrilled Cabbage. This simple dish was taken to new heights with the addition of pistachio mint and curry leaf crumbs. The slight smokiness from the grill paired beautifully with the nuttiness of the pistachios and the fragrant spices, creating an unexpectedly delicious and flavorful dish. It was a creative twist on a humble vegetable, making it memorable and worth trying.
For the mains, the Fish and Chips delivered a classic yet elevated experience. The beer-battered barramundi was perfectly crisp on the outside while maintaining a moist and flaky interior. The batter was light, ensuring that it didn’t overpower the delicate flavor of the fish. Paired with a tangy tatar sauce, it made for a satisfying and comforting dish, perfect for an afternoon treat.
The Crab Risoni was a lovely mix of rich and fresh flavors. The sweetness of the crab paired beautifully with the sharpness of pecorino cheese, while the cavolo nero added a slightly bitter note that complemented the dish. Cherry tomatoes brought bursts of brightness, cutting through the richness and providing a well-rounded, flavorful plate that felt light yet indulgent.
Next, the Spiced BBQ Pork Ribs were a flavorful delight. The ribs were tender, with meat falling easily off the bone, and the BBQ glaze offered a balanced sweetness with a hint of spice. The accompanying pork crackling salad provided a nice crunch, along with a fresh counterpoint to the rich, smoky ribs. The combination made for a mouthwatering and satisfying dish, perfect for those craving bold, hearty flavors.
The USDA Beef Tomahawk was the showstopper of the meal, as expected. The steak was cooked to a perfect medium-rare, boasting a juicy, tender texture and rich, meaty flavor. Paired with a simple mesculin salad, the freshness of the greens balanced the richness of the steak, making this a must-try for meat lovers.
On the side, we opted for the Mac & Cheese and Creamed Spinach. The Mac & Cheese was a creamy, cheesy delight, with just enough crispiness on top to add texture. It was indulgent but not overly heavy, making it an ideal complement to the mains. The Creamed Spinach was smooth and velvety, with the spinach retaining a slight bite, which I appreciated. It was a comforting and classic side dish, perfect to round out the meal.
Desserts were a sweet ending to an already wonderful meal. The Burnt Basque Cheesecake was luscious and creamy, with a slightly caramelized exterior that added depth to the flavor. The vanilla cream and lemon zest offered a light, citrusy contrast that balanced the richness of the cheesecake.
The S’mores Tart was a playful and indulgent dessert, with gooey toasted marshmallow sitting atop a rich chocolate ganache and a buttery graham crust. It was reminiscent of campfire s’mores but refined and sophisticated, making for a perfect treat to end the meal on a nostalgic yet elevated note.
Overall, our afternoon at Waterside Restoration & Bar was a delightful culinary journey. The absence of live music didn’t detract from the experience; instead, it allowed me to fully savor the intricate flavors and textures of each dish. Whether you’re looking for a quiet lunch or a lively evening with music, Waterside ensures that your dining experience will be one to remember.
