The team from restaurant Room81 were glad they made the trip from the Gold Coast after they took home the 2008 QLD Restaurant of Champions Award at the 2008 Fine Food Queensland exhibition.

Room81 sous chef Paul Smart and his team arrived at 2am the morning of the competition to start preparing for the judging.

Once the judging was complete, the team raced back to the Gold Coast to cater for 200 guests arriving at 6pm for the Room81 launch party for the 27th NRA Fashion Awards and Design Festival.

"We really do pride ourselves on our food and culinary creations," says Paul.

"I think it is important to push ourselves and compete in these events as it forces us to excel and keeps us eager for more wins in the industry.

"We love what we do, that's why we do it."

The team has had no time to celebrate. On Wednesday (March 12) the kitchen was busy preparing for the Trelise Cooper Fashionista's Luncheon.

Around 150 guests poured into to the Sofitel Grand Ballroom and were treated to a gourmet two course luncheon, matching wines and Chilled Moet, all prepared by Room81 staff.

Room81 tied with the Brisbane Convention Centre for gold medal honours at the QLD Restaurant of Champions competition, which took place over the three days of Fine Food Queensland.

Vino's Restaurant, Bespoke and The Brisbane Club took home silver medals.

THE WINNING MENU

Entrée

panfried barramundi and marron served with a crab ravioli, avocado mousse and shellfish bisque

Plat principal

pistachio crusted lamb rump served with a fricassee of mushrooms, carrot puree, potato gnocchi and niçoise jus