Take a sip around the world

Ever since The Collective burst on to the Southern GC eats scene a few years back, we keep coming back like moths to flame, or in this case the glow of a warm festoon light illuminating the irresistibly impeccable vibes of rooftop surrounds. Combining all the best bits of market style eats with all the magic of laid-back alfresco restaurant dining – the genius concept of combining five restaurants under one roof has long since been a respite for the indecisive among us, and a source of merriment for, well, the entire Coast.

Our go-to for getting friends and fam together, no longer do we have to heed the objections of that one friend with the palette of a toddler, or whatever whacky diet our Aunt is trying this month, because with 5 different cuisines to pick from e.v.e.r.y.one is happy. The only thing we’re left to fight over in the group chat is trying to narrow down a date that suits everyone, and unfortunately, The Collective can’t help us with that (nor our cousin’s terrible taste in memes).

What they can help us with however, is an experience that’s a worldly culinary feast for the senses. As if we need any more reasons to get along to The Collective, they’ve just treated us to a brand new menu, and since we’re ever the overachievers when it comes to all things eats and sips, we’ve taken it one step further with suggested cocktail pairings #forscience. It’s like a round-the-world-holiday for your tastebuds and we’re all invited.

The Italian Job
The first stop on our itinerary and also for satisfying eats that feel like a warm hug for your soul, The Italian Job. Much a-doughed carby bases provide the heavenly vessels for which to build upon all the rich tomato, garlic and herb laden sauces, coupled with the savoury and salty notes of aged cheeses, mushroom, cured meats, truffle flavours, and a *chefs kiss* for good measure because it’s always made with love. Round out all those iconic Italian flavours with something more traditional like an Aperol Spritz, or a cocktail that reads like a nostalgic love letter to Italy – The Marching Mellow. Again with the obligatory addition of Aperol to bring the complex, bitter notes, vanilla and sugar to balance and lime to brighten.
Try with: Marching Mellow – Aperol, Sweet Vermouth, Lime, Vanilla, Sugar, Foam, Charred Marshmallow

Mazi
This metaphorical round the world trip just gets fetta and fetta. Next stop, Mazi for a whole lotta Greek goodness. How did we get souvlaki?

Flavour-packed proteins balanced with the likes of olives, halloumi and creamy fetta to pack a savoury, salty punch – coupled with tangy tzatziki, lashings of lemon and peppy herbs to add that fresh zing we crave. Continuing the zesty citrus flavours and cutting through some of salty savoury richness, we’d suggest pairing with a Peach Cobbler for a refreshing and fruity sip reminiscent of a Greek Island summer vaycay.
Try with: Peach Cobbler – Grey Goose Peach, Lemon, Peach, Coconut, Foam, Zest

Luckie’s Diner
Are you feeling Luckies, punk? Our stomachs certainly will be after an American diner style feast. Think, beefed up, cheese laden American classics finished with bacon, onion and indulgent sauces like creamy ranch and maple glazes. We’re proposing you lean in to the indulgence with a cocktail that’s a nod to the ultimate adults-only choc shake. What could be more American than that? An upsize, perhaps?
Try with: The Big Lebowski – Zubrowka Vodka, Baileys, Kahlua, Vanilla, Chocolate

Umami
If it’s wok-your-socks-off Asian fusion you’re in the mood for, Umami never fails to rice to the occasion. We’re so(ba) obsessed with notes like – wasabi, ginger, sesame, sticky honey, vinegar, that tug-o-war for tastebuds we can never get enough of – sweet and sour. Which is perhaps unsurprisingly where our adoration for a perfectly balanced cocktail also comes in. We’re tipping the People’s Punch with the smoky-richness of dark rum, coupled with sweet (apple, tropical fruit) and sour (lemon, pineapple) notes worthy of standing on its own, while still complementing all those bold Asian flavours.
Try with: People’s Punch – Dark Rum, Goslings Black Seal, Pineapple, Apple, Lemon, Tropical Fruit

TaLA
We’re not sure if this counts as a pit stop for LA, or for Mexico, but when the LA style tacos are this delicious.. who really cares? Let’s chalk it up to two birds, one stone. Think all the quintessential flavours synonymous with Mexican cuisine – zesty coriander and jalapeño laden salsas, smoky chipotle, and sharp tequila and lime with a Californian street style twist.

It’s only fitting to suggest another hybrid creation to wash down all that deliciousness – the Tommy Batanga, combining the OG iconic duo of Mexican cocktails – Tequila and Lime, but topped with a cola for an unexpected, yet zingy twist that just works.
Try with: Tommy Batanga – Patron Silver Tequila, Cola, Lime

Where: 1128 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach
When: 12pm until late daily

Words by Kellie Leader.

STORY SPONSORED BY THE COLLECTIVE.