![Chef leaning on door](https://thisiscanberra.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/2022-03-30-Chef-Josh-Two-Blind-Mice-810x540.jpg)
Chef Josh of Two Blind Mice, Curtin Shops. Photo: Michelle Kroll.
Who is Joshua McDonald?: I am the head chef and part-owner at Two Blind Mice in Curtin.
Best recent dining experience: I would probably say Ondine in Deakin. Although I visited it about a year ago, I had such a memorable dinner there and cannot wait to go back.
![Ondine Restaurant, Deakin](https://thisiscanberra.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Ondine-Restaurant-1-810x539.jpg)
Ondine’s European-style menu is a crowd-pleaser. Photo: Ash St George.
Most embarrassing pantry item: It’s not quite a pantry item, but I buy those 50-pack of plastic cheese slices and they’re in my fridge at all times.
Must-buy ingredient: You’ve definitely got to have good quality butter and copious amounts of different flavoured honey.
Next big thing: I think more places like our restaurant, super casual dining with restaurant-quality food.
![Waitress with plate of food](https://thisiscanberra.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/See-Watson-differently-we-are-found04-810x540.jpg)
Joshua says The Knox is his favourite place for breakfast in Canberra. Photo: Daniella Jukic, We Are Found.
Favourite place for breakfast in the ACT: Definitely The Knox Made in Watson. It’s always so amazing and the staff there are super friendly.
My Canberra food secret: Marvie and Wolfe in the city for sure! It’s run by my mate, Grant, and it’s an absolute must-try for anyone who loves a good toastie/roll and a coffee.
Biggest culinary influence: I would say Sea Level down in Cronulla. I worked there on and off for four years and just recently had my wedding there. They have amazing meals and I have always admired the way they run their business.
Favourite cookbook: Eleven Maddison Park: The Cookbook by Daniel Humm and Will Guidara.
![Soumi behind the bar](https://thisiscanberra.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/ZacharyGriffith_Botanist_Creative-25-2-800x1200.jpg)
Bar Beirut is Joshua’s happy place! Photo: File.
Who I admire in the Canberra food and wine scene: Soumi and Struan from Bar Beirut. They do an absolutely amazing job – I really can’t get enough of that place!
What’s on the menu this week: A chicken liver pate special with pickles, onion jam and sourdough and our charred sugarloaf cabbage with romesco and pecorino.
Where I’m going next: Arkhe in Adelaide – I have been following them since they first opened. It looks amazing and I’m super excited to visit!
Death row meal: Definitely my Nonna’s lasagne. It’s the best! She makes it with crêpes instead of pasta.
My COVID-19 response: I’m probably speaking for everyone right now, but I’m pretty over it, to be honest. I do believe getting vaccinated and masking up when necessary is the way to go, though.
My really simple recipe tip: Finish your Bolognese sauce with balsamic vinegar, brown sugar and lemon juice. It’s not traditional, but it’s an absolute winner.
Two blind Mice is open Monday to Sunday from 11:30 am – 10 pm daily. It is located at 6/44 Curtin Pl in Curtin (near Coles).
Original Article published by Evelyn Karatzas on Riotact.