1 April 2022

Five minutes with Joshua McDonald, Two Blind Mice

| Evelyn Karatzas
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Chef leaning on door

Chef Josh of Two Blind Mice, Curtin Shops. Photo: Michelle Kroll.

Who is Joshua McDonald?: I am the head chef and part-owner at Two Blind Mice in Curtin.

Best recent dining experience: I would probably say Ondine in Deakin. Although I visited it about a year ago, I had such a memorable dinner there and cannot wait to go back.

Ondine Restaurant, Deakin

Ondine’s European-style menu is a crowd-pleaser. Photo: Ash St George.

Most embarrassing pantry item: It’s not quite a pantry item, but I buy those 50-pack of plastic cheese slices and they’re in my fridge at all times.

Must-buy ingredient: You’ve definitely got to have good quality butter and copious amounts of different flavoured honey.

Next big thing: I think more places like our restaurant, super casual dining with restaurant-quality food.

Waitress with plate of food

Joshua says The Knox is his favourite place for breakfast in Canberra. Photo: Daniella Jukic, We Are Found.

Favourite place for breakfast in the ACT: Definitely The Knox Made in Watson. It’s always so amazing and the staff there are super friendly.

My Canberra food secret: Marvie and Wolfe in the city for sure! It’s run by my mate, Grant, and it’s an absolute must-try for anyone who loves a good toastie/roll and a coffee.

READ ALSO Five minutes with Qiela Antonio, Italian and Sons

Biggest culinary influence: I would say Sea Level down in Cronulla. I worked there on and off for four years and just recently had my wedding there. They have amazing meals and I have always admired the way they run their business.

Favourite cookbook: Eleven Maddison Park: The Cookbook by Daniel Humm and Will Guidara.

Soumi behind the bar

Bar Beirut is Joshua’s happy place! Photo: File.

Who I admire in the Canberra food and wine scene: Soumi and Struan from Bar Beirut. They do an absolutely amazing job – I really can’t get enough of that place!

What’s on the menu this week: A chicken liver pate special with pickles, onion jam and sourdough and our charred sugarloaf cabbage with romesco and pecorino.

READ ALSO Market Eats: Tastes from Belconnen Fresh Food Markets

Where I’m going next: Arkhe in Adelaide – I have been following them since they first opened. It looks amazing and I’m super excited to visit!

Death row meal: Definitely my Nonna’s lasagne. It’s the best! She makes it with crêpes instead of pasta.

My COVID-19 response: I’m probably speaking for everyone right now, but I’m pretty over it, to be honest. I do believe getting vaccinated and masking up when necessary is the way to go, though.

My really simple recipe tip: Finish your Bolognese sauce with balsamic vinegar, brown sugar and lemon juice. It’s not traditional, but it’s an absolute winner.

Two blind Mice is open Monday to Sunday from 11:30 am – 10 pm daily. It is located at 6/44 Curtin Pl in Curtin (near Coles).

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