SUNDOWNERS AT ROOM81
There’s a particular kind of afternoon that only happens once in a while. Sun setting, terrace doors open, no real rush to be anywhere. In a full circle moment last week, I was thrilled to spend the afternoon shooting the new menu at Room81, @sofitelbroadbeach.
Back in 2002, I studied hotel management and worked for Sofitel Melbourne for five years. I still have such a soft spot for this brand and all that it embodies. Room81 has just relaunched as a contemporary tapas bar, and the whole afternoon unfolded exactly as it should. Unhurried, easy and genuinely magic. Sofitel is known globally for blending French art de vivre with the character of wherever it’s set down, and that sense of considered, refined hospitality was there from the second I walked in to set up. I even had a few minutes to admire the art exhibition in the lobby, curated by @mitchell. Ron and Jerson welcomed our team with a genuine warmth that feels rare these days, quietly attentive and never hovering. The sort of service you only notice because it’s consistently good. A FEW MENU HIGHLIGHTS The most delicious oysters, freshly shucked and gone in seconds. Champagne poured the moment we sat down, no asking required. Fried chicken that had absolutely no business being that good, and mini burgers that were the perfect bite sized treat. But the real highlight of the day was the yuzu cocktail, sharp and citrusy with a slow build of heat on the back end. YOUR NEXT SUNDOWNER SPOT Room81 is the perfect spot for sundowners before heading out for dinner. Long light, good company, nowhere else to be. What I love most is that it’s open to locals and visitors alike. You don’t need to be staying at Sofitel to make this your regular after work spot or pre dinner drink date. Thanks to @charlotterosebeers and her beautiful partner Ricky for modelling, @tarocroze for lighting and cocktail shots, and photography by @goldcoastinsider.
Tapas. Cocktails. Social moments.
@sofitelbroadbeach
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