Glen Mason is from New Zealand. He travelled for seven or eight years working in Canada and London, then came to Byron for Bluesfest and has never left.
Who/what is your greatest influence?
Tim Smith, the Executive Chef from Potato Head Beach Club in Bali. He has incredible self-confidence and he’s really inspiring.
What advice have you been given that has served you well in the kitchen?
Stay humble. I also know that you only get out what you put in.
What is the most rewarding thing about what you do?
It’s really good when the staff enjoy working together. It’s good when there’s some laughs through the service and someone on staff says at the end, ‘that was a good night tonight’.
How would you describe your restaurant?
This is a community-based licensed club welcoming locals and visitors. Price is a factor with us but food doesn’t have to be out of a deep-freeze to be cost effective. It’s not hard to make good honest fresh food at a reasonable price.
What are your opening hours?
Our cafe is open from 10am until 8.30pm and our bistro opens for lunch from 12 noon to 2pm and for dinner from 6pm to 8.30pm.
What is your most popular dish?
There are two really: slow-braised pork ribs and grilled corn is a favourite with the guys, and the ladies like the salmon.
What is your personal favourite?
I like coming up with our specials boards. I get to play around and try new things; and introduce people to new tastes.
Are your customers mostly locals or visitors?
Most of our patrons are locals but we get loads of visitors too, especially in the holidays. Families can come and the adults relax knowing the kids are close by and still having a great fun time. It works for all the generations.
How do you cater for diners with special requirements?
We have a good selection of alternatives and can cook to suit. One popular dish is the grilled haloumi salad with char-grilled tea-soaked raisins.
Is there any feedback that your customers consistently give you?
Since I’ve taken over I’m pleased to be getting plenty of good feedback. Diners seem to really love the variety and the menu changes.
Byron Services Club is open every day and is located at 132 Jonson St, Byron Bay. byronbayservicesclub.com.au.
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