Cameron Taylor took over The Boathouse on the banks of Kananook Creek in Frankston five years ago.  In that time, he has stamped his mark on the iconic restaurant, intent on making it a “special place” in its unique location.  It seats up to 80 guests and up to 140 for cocktail service.

Cameron is a qualified chef with an eye for detail, a passion for fresh, seasonal ingredients and a focus on constantly evolving.  Frankly Frankston sat down with this restaurateur and long-time Frankston advocate (he moved to Frankston in 1981) ahead of the busy festive season to talk all things food, Frankston and, of course, The Boathouse.

Tell us what’s new at The Boathouse.
We have just launched a new cocktail menu for summer (there’s 13 divine options, from Espresso Martini, Black Russian, White Russian and Mojito to the Honey Blonde, Toblerone, Cheeky Applejack and more) and we’ve got new beers on tap, including German wheat beer (Edinger Weissbrau).  We’ve got about 20 different beers and ciders on tap and in bottles ... we’re talking boutique. And as the weather gets warmer the menu will move more towards seafood.  I’m also just about to create a fire pit outside because I think that will create atmosphere.

What are you offering for Christmas?
Christmas Day we are having a nice five-course, simple menu that’s easy pleasy! (Think sweetcorn and leek veloute with char-grilled Queensland banana prawns, smoked tomato salsa and chive oil for entrée; roast porchetta stuffed with currants and pinenuts, potato galette, buttered greens, orange and rosemary jus for main; spiced plum pudding with brandy anglaise, fresh cherries and almond nougat for dessert, plus starters.)

What is the key to your success?
Evolving.  We are constantly evolving the menu, the dishes and the wine. We are always looking for new ingredients, what’s new, the next smart thing and it’s got to be fresh and exciting.  We actually offer a martini as a dessert.

So you like to shake things up?
I’m not afraid of trying different things.

What do you love about Frankston?
I think it offers a lot to everyone, and there’s more than just the beach – there’s diversity, open space and an untapped beauty here with Kananook Creek.  I am an advocate for Frankston.

Have any big-name celebrities dined at the Boathouse Restaurant?
Yes (but he won’t reveal who!).

What do you do when you’re not at the Boathouse?
I’m a Flying 15s state champion.  I sail out of Davey’s Bay Yacht Club with a lady by the name of Sue Thompson and we’re aiming for the world titles in New Zealand next year.  In the warmer months I’m down the beach once or twice a week.

THE BOATHOUSE
Open Tuesday-Sunday, lunch and dinner
A: 366 Nepean Highway, Frankston
T: 9770 5330
W: theboathouserestaurant.com.au
FB /theboathousefrankston