Tim's Surf and Turf
• By Tuan Nguyen
We felt like some Australian food this time around and ended up at Tim's Surf and Turf for dinner on Litchfield Street in Darwin CBD. It's kind of hidden away, but that's one of the appeals of this place. With a combination out outdoor and indoor dining, big shady trees and no street traffic, it makes for a really relaxing and casual place for dinner. There's plenty of seating available so you only need to book if you have more than 8 in your group.
We waltzed in at 6.30, sat down and ordered. On the table you'll find a bit of paper that is both the menu and the ordering sheet. Check the boxes next to the items you want, put your table number down and bring it to the counter and pay for it. You will get your meals brought to you and taken away once done though. Entrees consisted of a trio of grilled breads ($6 - cheap) and some salt and pepper squid ($10). Both came in about 15 minutes and went down the hatch just as quickly. A nice start to dinner.
For mains I went with a eye fillet steak and vegetables ($35) whilst the others went chicken parmi ($22) and a T-bone steak ($37.50). My jaw dropped when the chicken parmigiana came out - I thought there was a mistake as there was two pieces on each of the plates that were ordered. But no, that's just how it is - bloody massive. One plate alone could have fed a whole family of hobbits. Breasts definitely come better in pairs too. I scabbed a bit and thought it was quite nice, crunchy and well cooked but could do with more topping and sauce.
My steak was a dissapointment . I'm beginning to wonder if I can get a decent steak anywhere in Darwin without paying an arm and a leg, I haven't had a good run lately. It was meant to be medium rare but was more medium/medium well and was fairly chewy. I think I'm going to have to start ordering my steaks rare knowing that they'll come out medium/medium rare. I feel sorry for anybody who orders it well done as it will probably come out like beef jerky. My friend didn't have much better luck with his T-bone either with it being a bit more overcooked than requested.
The plate is literally too small to hold the giant "schnitzel".
So my meat wasn't all that great, but I do like the ambience and service here. It's spacious, casual and inviting. The staff are friendly and clear the table quickly. A perfect alfresco dining experience during the dry and during the warmer months you can always go inside. Also If you're lucky enough the owner Tim will come around and perform some magic tricks that will blow your mind. Perhaps to make up for the overcooked steak? Don't forget to say hello to the resident crocodile on the way out either.