Let’s be real. When designing a pub menu, most take out the cookie cutter and apply accordingly.
For this reason, it’s great to be able to sift through the local offerings to find a nice, and sometimes surprising, point of difference.
In the case of Eagle Tavern, the exception to the rule is right in the middle of the menu, with a heading that says “low and slow” and a claim that the four listed items are cooked between six and 22 hours.
There’s braised beef short ribs or pork ribs, and a crispy skinned pork belly.
But the one that really stands out is the Moroccan spiced lamb shoulder. It’s something that usually finds its way onto some of the more expensive specialist restaurants you might find along the Brisbane River.
But no, here it is sitting on the pub list at a highly competitive $34.90. With two sides.
It’s been cooked for 20 hours and fell apart as a slow-cooked piece of lamb should. The flavour is strong, but complemented by a spice rub which gave the dish a sharp, salty finish.
It sits on top of a garlic yoghurt sauce and there’s a choice of coleslaw or garden, Greek or Caesar salad.
There are steaks which find their way onto all pub menus, along with burgers, pasta, schnitzels, fish and starters.
But the attention here is in the detail. Take the grilled barramundi, for example, which includes a smoked cauliflower puree, pancetta and broccolini – far beyond the few lettuce leaves I’ve seen at some places.
Or the beetroot and quinoa burger – far beyond the token vegetable patty you’ll find on most cookie cutter menus.
A specials board offers up pork belly bites or beef laksa, which are all tempting.
The regular menu is equally adventurous, with chorizo and cream cheese croquets leading the way.
Have a quick walk around the bar and you’ll see some enticing drink options. Plenty of regular choices, or a cocktail balloon. Frozen margarita, anyone?
Non-drinkers with a sweet tooth might like the burger and milkshake for $21.90.
The bistro has been decked out with booths – some with their own Keno screen – and comfortable tables. There’s a kids room which seemed to have plenty of space.
Service came with friendly recommendations, and always a smile.
Eagleby might be considered out of the way for many, but Eagle Tavern is serving locals a hidden treat.
