Silky Oaks Lodge: dining in the treetops

Bless the good folk of Silky Oaks Lodge. Set 20 minutes north of Port Douglas on the border of the Daintree Rainforest, surrounded by rainforest and overlooking a crystal-clear river, this newly-refurbished retreat is so good, they could be forgiven for keeping it to themselves.

But that’s not what these generous people are doing. Instead, they have opened up their Treehouse Restaurant for lunch service so, even if you are not booked into one of their 40 sleek villas, you can make the most of this magnificent setting.

And make no mistake, it is magnificent. Wrapped in the rainforest, looking out over the Mossman River to more lush forest, open to the elements, the Treehouse Restaurant delivers on its name.

You won’t want to rush this experience, so order a cocktail while you peruse the menu (try the Sunset Sip, a blend of sake, yuzu and passionfruit). Chef Mark Godbeer’s menu spotlights local ingredients including seafood, nuts, chocolate and coffee, alongside the produce he grows in his expansive kitchen garden.

Among the entrées, the koju-cured kingfish tataki, served with ponzu, passionfruit and roe, is melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the confit duck larb salad packs a punch of fresh flavours.

Highlights among the mains include the reef fish, where the crunch of tempura batter contrasts with the smooth red curry sauce and bright bursts of finger lime. Local tiger prawns are served with black quinoa, mango and avocado, while for those who want something more hearty, char-grilled eye fillet is given an Asian twist with daikon slaw and a Szechuan sauce.

It may feel decadent to order dessert but the chance to linger longer is enough to convince most guests. Local Daintree Estate chocolate gives the chocolate cake its richness, while the ice cream sandwich teams coconut ice cream with medjool date cookies. Prefer something lighter? The team also creates a fresh tropical sorbet daily.

With a soothing soundtrack that blends the rushing river and the lazy noonday hum of insects, it’s hard to tear yourself away at the end of the meal. Chances are as you drive away, you’ll be vowing that one day, you will come back and stay. We can promise you this: it will be worth it.