Ep 8. Byron Bay

Byron Bay is one of the most popular surfing spots in Australia, and in episode 8 of Surfing the Menu season 1, presenters Curtis Stone and Ben O'Donoghue take us on a culinary journey through this iconic surf town. As they explore the stunning coastline, they meet up with local surfers to ride the waves and chat about the local food scene.

The episode kicks off with the pair visiting the Byron Bay Farmers Market, where they pick up some fresh local produce to use in their cooking later on. They sample some delicious fruits and vegetables, including luscious mangoes, crispy apples, and vibrant kale.

Next, Curtis and Ben head over to The Farm, a picturesque working farm that showcases sustainable and ethical farming practices. Here, they meet up with owner Tom and his family, who take them on a tour of the property and introduce them to some of the animals. They also learn about the farm's philosophy of 'closing the loop', which involves minimizing waste and using every part of the animal and plant in the farm's food production.

After taking in the stunning scenery and breathing in the fresh country air, it's time to get cooking. Curtis and Ben head back to their kitchen at The Farm, where they whip up a delicious seafood feast using the fresh ingredients they picked up at the market. They cook up some juicy prawns and serve them with a mango salsa, which perfectly complements the sweetness of the fruit. They also prepare a fresh tuna ceviche with avocado and lemon, as well as a crispy skin salmon with roasted fennel.

But no trip to Byron Bay is complete without a visit to one of its most iconic cafés, The Byron Bay General Store. Curtis and Ben stop in for a bite to eat and chat with the owner, who fills them in on the history of the café and its place in the local community. They sample some of the café's signature dishes, including a hearty veggie bowl and a decadent brownie that's perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth.

To cap off the day, the presenters head down to the beach for a sunset surf. They catch some waves and reflect on the beauty of Byron Bay and its vibrant surf and food culture. Overall, this episode of Surfing the Menu season 1 provides a tantalizing glimpse into the delicious food and stunning scenery that make Byron Bay such a special place.