They say strength is born from adversity and that is certainly the case for the Sowter family, Mt Tamborine locals who lost their family home, restaurant and gallery in a devastating fire on New Years Eve of 2016.

The Polish Place was one of Tambo, and indeed the Gold Coast and surrounding areas’, most-loved restaurants due to their exceptional Polish menu, stunning hinterland views and everyone’s-part-of-the-family hospitality.

The restaurant and adjoining accommodation were built from scratch (and with a whole lot of love) by Phil and Ania Sowter in the early 1980’s and although the loss was obviously a devastating one, we bring you extremely good news.

The Polish Place is in the final stages of building and the brand new restaurant is set to open this week and we could not be more excited for the Sowter family and ourselves (and you), who now get to eat all of the Polish food, all of the time once again.

Before we get to the menu though, let’s chat scenery and as you’d know, having no doubt visited Mt Tamborine on many occasions, there are very few places that don’t offer breathtaking views and The Polish Place is no exception.

Overlooking the Scenic Rim (mountains as far as the eye can see) and with an outdoor area that’s home to countless colourful Rosella’s and filled with homegrown greenery, it’s one of the most relaxing spots we’ve ever encountered and you’ll probably have a hard time leaving to be honest.

Now let’s talk Polish feasts and the very best advice we can give you is to arrive hungry and prepare yourself for some absolutely incredible flavours.

Ania has brought the most delicious homemade recipes from her native Poland and perfected them over the last 35(ish) years. The flavours are traditional, fresh and comforting and everything is made onsite.

The most popular dish, and the one The Polish Place has become famous for, is the Roast Duck for two with cherries. Those simple words don’t even begin to describe the love and life-changing flavours that make up this dish but you can expect soft, twice-cooked duck with not only cherries but apples baked inside and resulting in a sweet, mouthwatering dish that you’ll likely never forget.

Not only that though, we absolutely adored the Bigos (sauerkraut), Polish sausage, Pork Hock and a tomato soup with egg noodles that was the best we’ve ever tried.

There’s an extensive range of Polish beers, vodkas and local and Australian wines to complement the menu and everything can be enjoyed in front of the fire (season permitting) or out on the deck with the wildlife.

It’s been over two years in the making but the time has finally come to welcome The Polish Place back into the fold and once those doors do swing open, you better get in quick. Not a day has passed that the venue hasn’t received a call requesting an opening date.

Do yourself a favour and pay The Polish Place a visit ASAP, it’s famous for very good reason folks.

LOCATION: 333 Main Western Road, Mt Tamborine

Words and photos by Kirra Smith