Buderim’s well-loved fish and chip shop FarmRak has joined a handful of restaurants across Sunshine Coast that recently closed due to ‘shortage of staff’ brought by the Covid-19 pandemic.
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FarmRak Buderim, best known for their paddock to plate Thai cuisine, served their last dinner on 11 February 2022, thanking their customers for the support over the last two years.
Established by chef and farmer Nattapon Chumchujan, or simply Chef Natt in 2020, the place has gained popularity for their tasty fish and chips and the fresh salads which were made from produce they cultivated at their organic aquaponic farm at Buderim.
Chef Natt discovered the aquaponics farming system whilst searching for ways to improve the taste and texture of the meals he was creating.
The results are sumptuous chef-made dishes with plenty of gluten-free and vegan options. Aside from their salads, locals have come to love their tempura veggies, Tasmanian salmon, and house-made creme brulee.
His farm, only a 15-minute drive from the now-closed restaurant in Buderim and an hour away from his location in Ascot, supplied the restaurants with vegetables, herbs, and other produce.
“It’s such a shame you had to close due to the effects of the Covid-19 situation. I’m sure that I speak for all your customers when I say, ‘You are appreciated and we hope you can reopen in the near future,” shared Anthony Sullivan, one of the patrons of the restaurant.
The owners believe their journey is far from over and they are looking forward to returning to the Sunshine Coast.
“We really didn’t want to close Buderim, but with no staff we had no choice. Covid has impacted the lives of many,” shared Chef Nattapon Chumchujan and his wife Bella on a social media post.
FarmRak in Ascot, located along Racecourse Rd, remains open daily except on Mondays. You can follow them on Facebook for more information and updates.