Sunday, March 18, 2007

Kangaroos, emus and crocodiles

Not only does one find all of these creatures in Australia, but also served on a plate in a restaurant near Basel. That’s right. It’s called “The Boomerang” and serves Australian specialties, beers* and wines.

We had been planning to have dinner there with TBFs for quite some time, now, and we finally set a date: March 17th. To add to the fun and entertainment, Rammy and John, another couple of friends, would be joining in as well.

Not only had we agreed to meet at TBFs for an aperitif, but since it was coincidentally St-Patrick’s Day, everybody wore something green. John and Rammy had gotten there earlier in order not to miss the rugby game that was broadcasted that evening (John is a big fan of rugby). After a few drinks and lots of chatting, we decided to walk the 2 tram stops to the restaurant. We were warmly welcomed by the owners, Rolf and Linda, and their daughter Bianca, and taken to our table. It’s a very small restaurant, maybe 35-40 seats, but it was packed full.

Most of us had a salad as starter, but TBF just had to try the crocodile. I now realise that I forgot to ask TBF what he thought of his starter. I’ve had it before and the texture is similar to chicken breast, but with a slight fishy taste to it.

Mrs. TBF had never eaten emu steak before, so she decided to go for that as a main course. It’s a delicious red meat, maybe a bit of a cross between beef and a touch of game, but much milder than deer or such. Rammy had the lamb and the rest of us went for different cuts and preparations of beef.

Orange-X chose a lovely Penfold's St-Henry Syrah wine to accompany the meal …and us!


Notice TBF’s “alcohol vein” (as he likes to call it) on his forehead. I guess it works somewhat like a barometer. I’m not sure.

When Rolf arrived with the main course, we just had to take a few pictures, so he even accepted to sit down with us for a quick photo.

Just as Rolf came in with the last two sets of plates, he pointed out that the plates were very hot. Too late: TBF had already done the test. Ouch! Seeing Feeling is believing, right? Ahhh, there’s nothing like warm food served on a hot plate.

The dinner was excellent! Do we look happy, or what?

Rammy had had a long day, so she decided to go home around 11pm and let us five go on with the fun. About an hour later, we asked for the bill and John suddenly realized that Rammy had left with his wallet. We started making jokes with the owner and with a friendly wink; Rolf said that he had plenty of rubber gloves and dirty dishes. Naturally, TBFs came to the rescue. We left the restaurant and walked back to TBFs for a last night cap.

While Mrs. TBF and I sat in the living room and chatted, the men went to the TV room to watch the end of the rugby game that TBF had taped for John, followed by a DVD with short sketches. Notice how King the cat secured himself a good spot on the chair. Isn’t it funny how men are so easily entertained?

We left around 2.30 am and drove John home. It was a great evening, had lots of fun and we enjoyed many laughs. I think we have to do this more often.
*the real stuff, brewed in “Aussieland” and not in Europe

14 comments:

Unknown said...

now that does sound like a great time. Enjoyed all of the pics!

We are going out tonight but I never take photos, so we will have to see!

The Big Finn said...

I don't really recall the crocodile having a fishy taste to it. It was kind of like chicken, but fattier.

...It's actually a "wine vein." For some reason, it doesn't really pop out when I drink beer or spirits (at least I don't think it does!).

Also...

WOW! Is my lower back really that hairy? I've never really looked back there.

The Big Bear said...

Knowing the quality of the food in that fantastic restaurant, I'm sure everybody enjoyed the meal.

And if I ever will be killed by a crocodile, my last words will be: "At least I ate your brother before!"

CanadianSwiss said...

ET: Well, maybe you can just tell us a bit about your evening out, then ;)

TBF: I guess we'll just have to test you "vein" on other alcoholic beverages and I'll make sure to take Orange's "Veet for Men" next time. Or do you prefer a straight razor?

Big B: You ate the crocodile's brother, too?

Shammickite said...

I haven't had crocodile but I ate Roo-burger in Australia!

Ginnie Hart said...

Sounds like a place I need to visit, CS, since we plan to be in Australia a year from now. Hmmm. I think I'd try it all but I am a real glutton when it comes to lamb! You had so much fun, as always. :)

CanadianSwiss said...

Ex-Shammi: The filet of Roo there is excellent.

Ginnie: Australia?? Vacation?? You lucky duckies! Mmmm. I love lamb. It's always so difficult to make a choice when we're there. I've been through most of the menue card, to be honest ;)

Anonymous said...

Yum yum YUM.

CanadianSwiss said...

Tina: I just knew we'd get along well ;)

Jay said...

I've been drinkng a fair bit of Australian wine lately, but I think I'll pass on the emu.

Unknown said...

LOL - I'm still laughing over TBF's comment about back hair...

Haddock said...

We have an Australian Resturant in Marburg and we have tried all the specialities - Roo, Croc & Emu are all really tasty, and healthy as well! :)

Unknown said...

how was the amsterdam weekend?

Unknown said...

Love the pics, love to be there, hah! They sell Emu Jerky in Jamestown, N.Y. in the convenience store. Yuk!