The Exchange Hotel in Pinjarra has been named the best steak sandwich in country Western Australia for the second consecutive year, winning the AHA(WA) Steak Sandwich Championship regional title on Tuesday.
Chef David Brown's winning creation features beef from Midway Farm, a local supplier in Pinjarra, and costs $32. The judges praised its "fangability"—a term describing how easily teeth sink into the meat.
Live Cook-Off Delivers Tight Competition
Four regional finalists competed in a live cook-off, each given 15 minutes to prepare and present their signature sandwiches. Brown faced Lee Collins from Brugan Brewery near Harvey, Adrian Bruche from Settlers Tavern in Margaret River, and Igor Rossi from Spinifex Brewery Cable Beach.
Owner Expects Sales to Surge
Exchange Hotel owner Karl Bullers said the award would boost business. "We currently sell between 300 and 400 steak sandwiches a week. Now we've won, it'll go through the roof," he said. He noted the award helps build the venue's reputation and showcase regional WA. "We are in a regional town, now we've won this award people will know what we've got on offer," he added.
Prizes and Praise from Premier
The hotel received a championship belt, steak sandwich trophy, a $500 AHA venue voucher, a Little Creatures food prize, four Julienne knives, 10 boxes of McCain chips, and 10 litres of extra virgin olive oil.
Premier Roger Cook, one of the judges, highlighted the importance of country pubs. "Country pubs are essential. They are the town square in the modern village. They're where people interact with their community and they're part of the fabric and soul of every country town," he said.
