Morgan’s Beach Shack

Gastrology bloggers dined courtesy of Morgan’s Beach Shack.

Since opening its doors in January last year, Morgan’s Beach Shack has swiftly established a firm following among locals and travellers alike.

Led by seasoned hospitality veterans, Julian Gerner and Paul Olynyk, who also co-own the Royal Saxon in Richmond, the venue continues to be a hotspot for its fresh food, great atmosphere, live music and endless games of ping pong.

With panoramic views of the Mornington Peninsula, Morgan’s Beach Shack has a very distinctive visual narrative that pays homage to its enviable seaside setting. Designed by award-winning Six Degrees Architects, a firm whose iconic style has defined the face of some of Melbourne’s most renowned venues, the interiors are layered with recycled materials: lobster pots are turned into lampshades, lifebuoys are suspended from old timber beams, and a pair of rowing oars sits against sandstone bricks. The effect is playful, relaxed and contemporary.

Rare Beef salad

The menu takes cues from Baja-style cuisine, a Californian take on Mexican. We loved their moreish kingfish ceviche, fresh salads and stunning tacos.

Kingfish ceviche, Cured kingfish, fresh peppers, chilli salt, fennel + tendrils

The ceviche was our favourite dish. Displaying technique and skilful restraint, the kingfish was beautifully presented and accompanied by a citrus-based marinade that cured the kingfish. It was a wonderful mélange of salinity, sweetness and acidity.

Baja battered soft shell crab w. sweet corn salsa, jalapeno crema + fresh herbs

We adored the beautifully crispy and juicy soft shell crab. The deep fried crustacean pieces were coated in a semi-thick crisp batter that encapsulated firm, sweet flesh. With a touch of spicy jalapeno crema and freshness from the sweet corn salsa and fresh herbs, it was a playful and delicious dish.

Ancient grain salad

We enjoyed both our ancient grain salad and rare beef salad. The ancient grain salad in particular was a stand out. An enlivening salad of chicken, farro, quinoa, chia, chickpeas, roasted almonds, tendrils and creamy goats curd brought together with an olive oil dressing, the salad was a medley of exciting flavours and textures.

With uninterrupted views overlooking one of Australia’s most famous bays, Morgan’s Beach Shack is a spectacular place to take in what Sorrento has to offer.

Location: 1-3 Esplanade, Sorrento, VIC

Phone: (03) 5984 3121

Link: http://beachshacksorrento.com.au/

Cuisine: Mexican, American, Burgers, Steak

High tea on the High Seas by Searoad Ferries

Gastrology bloggers dined courtesy of Searoad Ferries.

If you're looking for something a little different from the regular high tea offerings around town, Searoad Ferries offers a decadent and picturesque experience on board the Queenscliff Sorrento Ferry.

The High Tea on the High Seas package is $40.00 per person and includes immediate return travel on the same ferry for a leisurely experience.  Served in the Portsea Lounge, we indulged in an Afternoon Tea of exquisite cakes, desserts, scones and lovely sandwiches over barista made coffee.

We loved the elegant setting; white tablecloths, china and 180 degrees of unadulterated views.

The sandwiches were pleasant to eat and were kept deliberately simple. 

The top tier was filled with delicious sweet treats which looked as good as they tasted. We especially adored the cheesecake. The rich cheesecake was beautifully made. Creamy, decadent with a crumbly buttery base. It was beautiful.

A key component to a successful high tea is good scones. These scones were delightfully light and buttery in flavour. The accompanying jam was delicious. 

We were very pleased with the quality and standard of the offerings. 

There are two vessels which operate from Queenscliff to Sorrento. The twin hull vessels are specially designed to operate in all weather conditions ensuring consistency of service for our customers. Each vessel holds approximately 80 vehicles and 700 passengers. 

On both vessels, wide panoramic windows and numerous external observation decks highlight the natural beauty and man-made features of Southern Port Phillip. 

During the crossing passengers enjoy views of lighthouses, historic fortifications, cliff top mansions, beacons and marine life such as dolphins, seabirds and occasionally whales. 

The service has become one of Victoria’s major tourism experiences as well as a key section of Victoria’s road network.

The Queenscliff Sorrento Ferry offers a commendable and very well-priced High Tea option for Melbournians with a difference. 

What: High Tea on the High Seas

Cost: $40 per person

Bookings: online or or please call 5258 3244. 

Upcoming Event: Special High Tea - Bubbles on The Bay

As part of the 2015 Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, The Queenscliff Sorrento Ferry is offering Bubbles on the Bay which features a flight of local ‘bubbles’ accompanied by delicious treats created from regional produce. This special high tea ($50 per person) will be served in the privacy of the Portsea Lounge. Find out more here.