Australia’s diverse terroirs are not just a backdrop for innovative winemaking; they provide a fertile ground for culinary creativity that connects the vineyard to the table. Immerse yourself in a journey through some of the country’s finest wine regions, where sophisticated dining meets the unparalleled taste of local produce. In this exploration, we’ll guide you through five venues that are redefining the boundaries of wine and food pairing, celebrating everything from modern Australian cuisine to rustic traditional fare.
Voyager Estate Restaurant - Margaret River, WA
Set sail on a flavoursome journey and enjoy great wine at Voyager Estate Restaurant on Stevens Road in Margaret River. This elegant venue features a high vaulted wooden beamed ceiling and beautifully tiled floors, creating a welcoming ambience. Tapestry-covered chairs invite guests to settle in for an exceptional dining experience, where a five-course wine-paired tasting menu brimming with fresh, local produce awaits. Voyager Estate captures the soul of Margaret River, blending the ocean's bounty, freshwater streams, and garden greens into an immersive culinary adventure.
Each dish harmoniously complements the estate's fine wines, showcasing the region’s natural richness. Start tantalising your palate with cucumber, sheep’s cheese and anise hyssop, ideally paired with the zesty 2023 Sauvignon Blanc Semillon. As the meal unfolds, indulge in a delightful combination of corn, Geraldton wax and radish accompanied by the 2023 Coastal Chardonnay. The experience culminates with a robust serving of mushroom, asparagus and potato, which finds its perfect match in the full-bodied 2020 MJW Cabernet Sauvignon. Book your table now for an unforgettable dining experience.
Rustico at Hay Shed Hill - Wilyabrup, WA
Discover a rustic vineyard restaurant in Margaret River serving award-winning tapas and world-class wines at Rustico at Hay Shed Hill on Harmans Mill Road in Wilyabrup. With its warm Mediterranean vibe, this restaurant blends rustic charm with an inviting atmosphere, accentuated by wine barrels and softly glowing string lights. Settle into this haven of culinary delight where a tapas tasting degustation paired with premium Hay Shed Hill wines awaits. Experience the laid-back atmosphere as you indulge in shared plates designed to bring friends close together.
Start with freshly shucked Australian oysters or tantalising chorizo and a refreshing jug of Sangria. Larger plates beckon with delights like chipotle chicken drizzled in guindilla glaze or tempura whiting paired with zesty tartar sauce and aioli. If pasta tempts you, the beef and stracciatella ravioli with beurre noisette and lemon is a must-try, while the tender pork belly, served with apple purée, is an indulgent finale. Secure your spot today to savour these delectable flavours.
Ekhidna Kitchen and Wines - McLaren Vale, SA
Dedicated to delivering exceptional dining experiences built on a foundation of culinary excellence, Ekhidna Kitchen and Wines on Branson Road in McLaren Vale is a destination that promises to delight the senses. The elegant dining space features blond wood tables and sweeping vineyard views, creating a serene backdrop for enjoying thoughtful yet uncomplicated dishes inspired by global cuisines. Here, each plate reflects a dedication to high-quality ingredients and innovative techniques, ensuring a memorable meal.
Begin your taste expedition with small plates like calamari seasoned with vineyard pepper and nori salt, perfectly complemented by garden leaves and lime aioli. For a standout main course, the char-grilled kangaroo fillet served with potato and shallot whip, finished with anise myrtle glaze, showcases native Australian ingredients at their best. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a glass of the house’s sophisticated Ekhidna Grenache Shiraz that enhances every flavour. Book now and prepare for a culinary journey.
Vines Restaurant at Hollydene Estate - Jerrys Plains, NSW
Vines Restaurant at Hollydene Estate offers a unique and inviting dining experience on the cusp of the Upper Hunter Valley. Nestled within the historic Arrowfield Winery, this award-winning restaurant takes great pride in its deep respect for the property's rich legacy. A remarkable feature is the incorporation of timbers from the original nearby Bowman’s Crossing Bridge, providing an inviting atmosphere. Relish your wine selections while enjoying a mezze platter, before diving into a thoughtfully crafted menu focused on fresh local produce.
The culinary offerings excite the palate with highlights such as beer-battered fish tacos crowned with crisp lettuce, zesty tomato salsa, and creamy chipotle mayo that perfectly balance flavours. The chicken supreme, wrapped in prosciutto and partnered with sweet potato purée and a decadent mushroom sauce, is a dish designed to leave a lasting impression, celebrating the essence of local cuisine. Reserve your table for a delightful experience.
La Cantina King Valley - King Valley, VIC
Nestled in the heart of King Valley in north-east Victoria, La Cantina on Honeys Lane embodies the Corsini family’s dedication to crafting quality wines. Built from Glenrowan granite in a charming Tuscan style, this winery and cellar door offer an authentic tasting experience featuring cool climate wines crafted with no added preservatives. The result is an array of wines that encapsulate the true character of each varietal, making every sip a celebration of tradition and craftsmanship.
From Tempranillo to Sangiovese and everything in between, the winery tantalises wine enthusiasts with options that cater to every palate. Don’t miss the Saperavi, bursting with a luscious bouquet of berries, as well as the Methode Traditionelle Chardonnay, with its crisp notes of green apple, perfect alongside fresh oysters. To experience the harmonious blend of remarkable wines and ambiance, make your booking today!
As we voyage through these remarkable venues, it becomes evident that when it comes to wine and food, the synergy between the two can create a magical experience. All five of these restaurants and wineries capture the essence of their regional offerings, blending local flavours with carefully curated wines for a dining experience that is not just a meal, but a celebration of life itself.
