The Harbour Fish shop at the Apollo Bay Fishermans Co-Op

Breakwater Road
Apollo Bay
VIC 3233

The Harbour Fish shop at the Apollo Bay Fisherman's Co-Op is situated away from the main strip of shops and eateries. You can find it just off the Great Ocean Road as it heads out of Apollo Bay towards Marengo, just past the Golf Club and above the harbour.

The set up is pretty basic and makes maximum use of the location. The shop itself faces the water, with tables and chairs outside, mostly uncovered. Inside is the classic counter with the usual options on the menu. We placed our orders and headed outside to admire the view for 10 minutes while we waited for our order.

We then made our way down to the beach to eat. I went for the classic flake and we shared the large chips. The fish was perfectly cooked and the batter just crisp enough. The chips were classic chip shop style, reasonably thick cut with crunch on the outside and soft inside.

The better half had her mind set on a fish burger all day and ordered accordingly. Although the fish itself was good, the roll was soft and uninspiring and the lettuce a bit limp. Overall it didn't live up to the expectation or anticipation

The meal cost $23 which is comparable with other local options. The location makes the Harbour Fish Shop as a great option on days the weather is being kind in Apollo Bay!

Issan Thai Street Food

10 Droop Street
Footscray
Victoria 3011

Occupying apart of the Westville Shopping Centre facing onto Droop Street, Issan Thai Street Food opened in January. It is named for the northeastern region of Thailand, bordering Laos and Cambodia, the original home of Noi one of the owners. It is a large, agricultural area of rice fields and small villages, influenced language, food and culture of Lao.

The look is modern with lots of bare wood and a some modern Thai themed graphics, eschewing the standard some the standard Thai eatery cliches. Our first attempt it give it a try on a weekday evening didn't workout as the only tables left were in the back section which opens onto the mall and has more of a food court vibe. We returned on a Sunday lunch time and were able to find a table in the front section.

After taking our seats we perused the lunchtime menus, which feature a smaller portions and lower prices than the full evening version.

Many of the Issan specialities were new to me and we ended up sticking to some favourites.

The prawn Pad Thai looked the part and went down well.

I had a green curry, and was able to get the veggie version despite it not being on the menu. The vegetables and tofu were well prepared and the curry sauce carried plenty of kick.

The notice for a liquor licence is up on the window...

Our bill came to $23.80, very comparable to other options in the 'scray. The service was friendly and pretty prompt. It is great to have a Thai eatery back in central Footscray and I'm sure we'll be back to try some other options on the menu.