By TANIA PHILLIPS
THERE is something special about the Ivory Tavern.
It could be the location – right on the Tweed River – or the stylish but understated elegance of the interior and verandah. But now, thanks to long-time hotelier Claud Mangifesta, it could be the food and wine, sourced especially to match the location.
Claud has been at the helm of the Ivory Tavern for a year now but his connection to the tavern goes right back to the beginning – drinking there on the day it opened celebrating with good friend Victor of Victory Ford.
“That was nine years ago and I was in Sydney in those days,” he said.
Claud said he was interested but at the time had business interests in Queensland and no time.
“The time was never quite right until last year,” he said.
It was the location that attracted him.
“I’m a boatie – I love the water – I was a professional fisherman but I haven’t done it for 15 years,” he said.
“Walking through the front door and seeing the water – that was it for me, I didn’t have to see any more.”
Finding the perfect location for the hotel he’d always dreamt of was half of the plan. With more than 30 years’ experience in the industry, he then set out to build the perfect menu.
“Food has always been my passion and here at the Ivory we have gone all-out to cater for our customers and local clientele,” he said.
“It’s simply all about great food, great service, great value for money and a clean, safe friendly environment for all to enjoy, that’s what we try to do and provide.”
His other passion is his own label products – the Ivory proudly boasts its very own beer, wines, sparkling, spirits and cocktails and all being sold across the bars.
“All our products are of premium quality and I am proud they wear our Ivory name,” he said.
He said the Ivory Tavern was the culmination of all of his years in the industry set against calming river views. Maybe that’s what makes it special.
For more information you can contact the Ivory on (07) 5506 9988 or visit www.ivorytavern.com
You can also look them up on facebook ivorytaverntweedheads
