You step out of the main hotel building for a short walk to the original homestead of Sir Frederick Darley, sixth Chief Justice of New South Wales. The home is over 116 years old and remains in beautiful, original condition,n with period Victorian furnishings and perfect service. We dined on an early winter evening, with the fireplaces blazing and the wind shaking the windows. In winter, dress warmly!
The food, in the style of 'new Australian cuisine', is fantastic and nearly magical. Everything is fresh and beautifully plated and presented to you. We spent a long evening at dinner, as we lingered over wine and concluded with superb Australian port. We dined in a small parlour in uncrowded elegance that we enjoyed so very much. My husband munched his way through yet more giant Australian prawns, beef steak, and a big dessert. I had a green salad (some vegetables new to me), roasted beef with a wine sauce, and an apple dessert. It was more than dinner—it was our entertainment on a cold evening. Truly enjoyable.
Our waiter was knowledgeable both about the food and the wine list. Part of our journey was to explore and understand Australian wines, and this was a very pleasant journey for sure. Go out of your way to dine at this extremely fine restaurant. Plan your vacation around it. Fly to Australia! www.lilianfels.com.au