The Ikon is back! Chef Ritesh Iupakheti at the famous wall in the Ikon restaurant before its reopening on Monday.
Parkes has been missing an idol for the past 18 months, but the good news is the wait is over.
The Ikon Restaurant at Hotel Gracelands officially reopened this week with a fresh new look, new management and a new chef.
“We are very excited to be back,” said manager Tracey Huckel, who has been doing a lot of work over the past months with her husband Rob to be ready for the reopening.
Dining options in Parkes have declined since the start of COVID last year, and the Ikon promises to offer diners something that is the next level above anything available elsewhere in town.
With the vast experience of Nepalese chef Ritesh Iupakheti on board, the menu will cater for all tastes and dietary options, and reflect seasonal changes. Before his stint at the Coachman for the past four years, Ritesh worked in Melbourne at the famous Afro-centric fine dining restaurant Meat & Wine Co and Pacinos Italian family restaurant.
“I look forward to the reopening of Ikon, and the new challenge it has for me,” said Ritesh on Monday before the opening night.
He plans to also include one special per week, and started off with a Nepalense goat curry. Everything on the menu will be freshly made on premises.
While the famous mural of icons is still a focal point in the dining area, Tracey has been building a collection of Australian and local iconic items for display to add to the theme, and hopefully stimulate discussion during dining.
“We want to focus on being welcoming, friendly and courteous, and also offer din-ers a chance to dress up a little if they wish,” said Rob.
Ikon is open Monday to Thursday from 6 – 8:30pm and Friday and Saturday from 6 – 9pm. Bookings are essential at 6862 3459.