D is a smart man, but some things greatly confuse him. On a recent trip to Room 81, in Broadbeach’s Sofitel Hotel, I can only guess that his idiocy was as a result of being overwhelmed by the menu choices.
Room 81 has a very extensive cocktail menu featuring old favourites like Mai Tais and Cosmos ($12 each), as well as unusual combinations like a lychee and rose martini or blueberry martini ($12), or a sweet dessert drink modelled on banoffee pie.
D went off to the bar to order me a Curaracha Martini (vodka, mango, chilli, $10) and himself a Maple Julep (Markers Mark, Maple Syrup, mint, $12). Our drinks were taking a while to arrive, although I didn’t mind as Room 81 has some damn fine comfy seats. There are even day beds, so you can stretch out and imbibe in comfort.
After wondering where our drinks were, I asked D if he had ordered the right ones.
“Of course I did,” he said indignantly. “I ordered your curaracha and I ordered my youlep.”
Cue peals of laughter from me, and D frowning and looking confused.
“Youlep?? YOULEP?” I squawked.
Eventually, our drinks arrived with many apologies from the waiter who also warned us they were two of the strongest drinks on the menu.
My martini was fantastic – yes, it was very strong, but the combination of fresh mango and bitey chilli was amazing and something I’d never experienced in a drink. D’s Mint Youlep was not for the faint hearted – it had just a faint maple flavour, but I’m sure all die-hard bourbon drinkers would love the intensity.
Room 81 is quite the find: it’s cosy, comfortable, classy, well-priced, and has fantastic cocktails. Just try not to be blindsided by the menu as D was – and remember we’re not in Mexico. A J is a j, not a y.
Room 81
Cocktail Bar & Restaurant
Sofitel Hotel
81 Surf Parade
Broadbeach
(07) 5592 2250
Open Tuesday-Saturday
http://sofitelgoldcoast.com.au/room81-restaurant-bar/broadbeach-dining.html
