Cafe Balaena - Urangan

We stayed at the Mantra and Cafe Balaena is conveniently located right at the back of the accommodation. We enjoyed the foods there. We had crispy Seasoned Squi... read more We stayed at the Mantra and Cafe Balaena is conveniently located right at the back of the accommodation. We enjoyed the foods there. We had crispy Seasoned Squid with Wasabi Mayo for entree '. The squid was fresh. Mayo sauce was ok. For the main, we went for the seafood of course. First dish we thought we would try the local Hervey Bay Whiting Fillets. It was just ok, to be honest. I think 4-5 pieces of fish at $25 and some side salad is rather dear. The salad was nothing special. I said ok because we could barely appreciate the fish for them being deep fried. The second dish we had The Ultimate Queenslander Barramundi . It was worth the value more than the first dish. Love having macadamia topping. The dish was somewhat soaked with the sauce but it went down alright. We went back again on Tuesday night as it is convenient at 9pm, as it showed on Yelp that they closed at 10pm). But they were closed : . We did not really have the chance to try anywhere else due to our busy schedule. The staff were very attentive and friendly.

We were seated at a dirty table, and the staff failed to clear our plates or offer us a second drink, nor did they check if we were satisfied with our meals. To... read more We were seated at a dirty table, and the staff failed to clear our plates or offer us a second drink, nor did they check if we were satisfied with our meals. To make matters worse, we were informed that they didn't serve beer on tap, only in bottles or cans. We only chose this place because it was the only restaurant with a view of the harbor, but I certainly cannot recommend it.

When my husband and I came here it took 20 minutes for someone just to greet us at our table then another hour and half for our food. People who came in 30min.... read more When my husband and I came here it took 20 minutes for someone just to greet us at our table then another hour and half for our food. People who came in 30min. After us were getting our food before us and we ordered a chicken sandwich and salad with kangaroo. We both worked in the restaurant industry before so we normally give them the benefit of the doubt but that was ridiculous

Let's just say I won't come back here again. When I order CRISPY calamari I expect it to be crispy not battery and the price wasn't worth it I may of well gone... read more Let's just say I won't come back here again. When I order CRISPY calamari I expect it to be crispy not battery and the price wasn't worth it I may of well gone and got takeout.

If you find yourself in Urangan Harbour and are in search of a good spot for coffee (or a chai latte), a bite to eat, or a drink, Café Balaena is definitely wor... read more If you find yourself in Urangan Harbour and are in search of a good spot for coffee (or a chai latte), a bite to eat, or a drink, Café Balaena is definitely worth a visit. The staff is generally friendly, although there are times when orders may get mixed up or misplaced. If you're in a rush, keep in mind that service can be a bit slow at times. However, Dean is always enthusiastic and ready to help. If you're looking to sit down for drinks and dinner, this is a great option, although it can get quite busy. The café offers a lovely view of the harbor, and the warmth of a small-town community enhances its charm.