

The accompanying caramelized pumpkin with a sprinkling of pomegranate seeds make this dish one-of-a-kind in Queens or New York City for that matter. This tender, earthy meat is sublime with a smattering of walnut pesto on top and a squeeze of fresh lemon. There’s even a Quinoa Vegan burger, so eat freely!Ĭlassic dinner entrees that bring me back include their herb crusted Australian, grass-fed lamb “Lollies”, or little chops that you can pick up like Lollie pops. The Thirsty Koala burgers require two hands and an empty stomach, made from grass-fed beef or free-range chicken. It’s simply delicious with nutty quinoa, cauliflower, spicy arugula, avocado, tomato, onion, sriracha and tahini dressing ($13.75). Warm, organic quinoa and cauliflower salad will make you forget that there’s no meat or gluten in it. Jaffles are filled with free-range chicken, steak, or grilled vegetables. “Jaffles” are Aussie sandwiches made on freshly baked bread and served with a salad or hand-cut fries. Indeed, gluten-frees, vegetarians, and vegans alike can flock to the Thirsty Koala, with an ever-increasing variety of options for them.ĭinner entrées go from light to very serious, with options that include Boomerang Tacos filled with Australian, grass-fed steak, wild Pacific cod, or the vegan taco filled with chili, avocado, walnuts, cabbage and cilantro. Classic crispy calamari are dusted with a gluten-free flour blend and served with sweet chili and Thai basil yogurt sauce ($13.50).


Thea’s meatballs remain on the menu, due to their fabulous taste and popularity. Our neighbors at the adjacent table shared platters of sliders, both grassfed beef and free-range chicken, served on fluffy, mini brioche buns, with chipotle aioli. These Long Island duck mini drumsticks are bathed in delicious blackberry and ginger glaze, topped with delicate watercress. Duckling drumettes take a twist on chicken wings. Next the tender octopus salad is grilled, then tossed with blood oranges, fennel, and capers for a nod to Christine’s Greek-Australian roots and the chef’s creativity. These flatbreads are ideal for the table to share along with the new haloumi fries, made with savory, pan-fried haloumi cheese topped with clover honey and toasted sesame seeds. First off, there’s a flatbread of the day, which was piled abundantly with fresh spinach, feta cheese, and dill. The sleek, natural décor invites you in to relax and settle in with a “Hooley Dooley” caipirinha while you peruse the menu.Ĭhef Kathy Fuchs was excited for us to try some of the new additions to the menu, and so we happily obliged. Since its opening four and a half years ago, the Thirsty Koala has promised to “change the world one bite at a time.” With a truly unique menu, based on Australian classics, Greek touches, and American cuisine made with locally sourced, wholesome, unprocessed ingredients, you simply can’t go wrong with a meal here. The Thirsty Koala is owned by a trio of friends: Kathy, the Executive Chef and Urban Farmer, Alex, the Barman, and Christine, the hummingbird, who buzzes from table to table, doting on guests like family. Coopers Australian pale ale, wines, and well drinks are flowing between 4-9pm at Happy Hour prices. Two new cocktails have yet to be named but just ask for the “Blanchett” or the bourbon-cinnamon tea and you’ll be delighted. “Gimme a Push” with rum, coconut, cucumber, and lime is the perfect summer drink, as is the “Gingeroo” with ginger beer, gin, and fresh lime juice. Bask in the breezes on the outdoor patio at The Thirsty Koala, while you quench your thirst with one of their inventive cocktails, available during Happy Hour for just $5.
