One of Brisbane’s Best Restaurants
Maz August 10th, 2010
Javier Codina, Chef Patron
Last week Francis and I lunched at Moda (nee Gianni’s) in the CBD. It was an outstanding experience in every way. Javier Codina has taken over the reins with a new casual concept — very stylish Spanish bistro. I loved the decor and charming courtyard that is perfect for lunch, and pretty as a picture at night under candlelight. We had a number of small dishes first. In Spain they would be called tapas but Javier said that this name had become so debased in Brisbane, he’d rather not use it. One of our favourite Spanish dishes (Francis and Javier are both Catalans) is paella, and Javier’s version was spot on — sexy but authentic. Paella is a special on Fridays, or by prior arrangement. Prices at Moda are very approachable.
This is a restaurant that has been going for a number of years (under a more formal guise as Gianni’s) but always with Javier as the guiding light in the kitchen. And his food, either formal or casual, is superb — he has the experience, background and technique that makes him a stand-out chef. Australia tends to worship the “cult of the new” so restaurants like this can sometimes be overlooked. Don’t fall into that trap … you will miss out on something special.
I like what Javier is doing at Moda. It’s a great looking restaurant and his paella is just superb! It’s certainly worth a try.