Herbert River RSL Delivers: Plenty On The Plate

Great sized portions and piled high plates. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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Today's food review took me to the Herbert River RSL, where I sampled three popular menu items: the gluten-free calamari, battered fish, and the classic chicken parmigiana.

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The first thing that struck me was the size of the meals. All three dishes arrived generously portioned, with plates filled right to the edges. There was certainly no danger of leaving hungry.

The chicken parmigiana caught my attention before I even picked up a knife and fork. The aroma of crispy ham and melted cheese was impossible to ignore. The chicken remained moist and tender while still holding onto its crisp crumbed coating. Toppings were generous, creating a meal that felt comforting and familiar. In fact, it reminded me of the kind of parmigiana my nan used to make - hearty, warming and satisfying.

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The calamari was something I had heard raved about by friends, and it certainly didn't disappoint. Rather than standard rings, the plate was piled high with golden curls of cross-hatched calamari, lightly seasoned and perfectly crisp. Being gluten-free, it provided a filling meal without feeling heavy. A garnish of lime rather than the traditional lemon delivered a fresh citrus zing that complemented the seafood beautifully.

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Fish-lovers can choose their preferred style, battered, crumbed or grilled. On this occasion I selected the battered option. The batter delivered a satisfying crunch, revealing soft, flaky white fish beneath. Paired with a creamy tartare sauce, it was a simple but very enjoyable combination.  

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Diners should note that while the calamari is gluten-free, the seafood sauces do contain dairy. The helpful RSL servers also advise that specialist equipment is used to minimise cross-contamination concerns for guests with dietary requirements.

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A standout accompaniment was the side salad. A colourful mix of cabbage, carrot and leafy greens offered a fresh, earthy contrast to the fried dishes. The honey mustard dressing added a tangy sweetness, although balsamic dressing is available on request for those who prefer it.

If you're not already a member of the Herbert River RSL, the meal deals alone make a strong case for joining. And if the food doesn't leave you smiling, the friendly staff certainly will.

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