Coffs Coast brothers Louis and Hugh Riley (the beloved personalities behind the Emerald Beach General Store) set out to create a restaurant concept that would work within the relaxed beachside location but was also enticing enough to push people out of their comfort zone. “We wanted to impress and offer something different. Sometimes you need to hold people’s hands a little, but that’s where the fun happens,” says Louis.
The result is a unique gastronomic playground incorporating rustic Middle Eastern Mediterranean and European coastal cuisines, all with a fun and modern edge. Whether indulging in mezze-style starters or sharing larger plates, RATTLE offers a ‘choose your own adventure’ feasting experience.
A creative collaboration among local food icons Huey Riley, Louis Riley, current head chef Sam Allinson and sous chef Struan Rae, RATTLE’s seasonal menu comes to life through various exquisitely crafted plates designed to be shared. From fresh morsels of oysters, mussels and scallops to the succulent 1.5kg lamb shoulder, the artistry extends beyond the palate, with every dish thoughtfully presented as a visual delight. Each bite sparks wanderlust, taking you on a sensory exploration of the Mediterranean through food that is made to share. “This was an opportunity to create something solid to hang our hat on, and for us, it had to be around Mediterranean food. Given the location, we knew it would work well here,” says Louis.
RATTLE’s wine list showcases a mixture of crowd favourites, but includes drops from emerging producers, adding an element of fresh inspiration to the dining experience. The restaurant also embraces sustainability, ensuring a thoughtful thread runs through the menu. Alternatively, the talented bartender Jo passionately crafts creative cocktails that mirror the vibrancy and ingenuity of the restaurant’s design and ambience.
