EAT & DRINK
THE SITTING DUCK, peats ridge Discover fine food and wine in the hinterland
We all love the coast and its proximity to our beaches, waterways and the endless array of cafes and restaurants but hiding away at Peats Ridge – a not-too-long drive in the countryside – on over 50 hectares of manicured lawns and natural bushlands, is one of the gems of the Central Coast: The Sitting Duck Restaurant at The Springs. At the restaurant’s helm is chef Dan who came to The Sitting Duck via Claridges and The Intercontinental in London, but who would not dream of calling anywhere else ‘home’ now. Surrounded by local farms in almost every direction, chef Dan has been able to realise his vision to keep the food in the restaurant local, fresh and simple in order to best showcase its flavours. ‘We are so lucky to have seasonal oranges, avocadoes, pecans, organic eggs, honey, local cheese, organic vegetables and so much more, right on our doorstep,’ says chef Dan. ‘Our lunches are very much a farm to fork experience, and you just can’t beat that for flavour.’ Some of the delicious moments on The Sitting Duck’s summer menu include duck prosciutto with local oranges, a chicken pâté with a blood orange dressing, a roast spatchcock with porcini dust and chicken jus. Just be sure to leave room afterwards for the orchard-fresh toffee apple with cider jelly, dulce custard and toasted almond ice-cream! And ‘local’ doesn’t end with the food. The Springs mixologist, Jennifer, loves to surprise diners with fresh cocktails like her spicy cucumber margarita, or a blood orange and basil martini. Or if you really want to feel in heaven, a macadamia and white chocolate martini (to die for)! The Sitting Duck open for lunch Fri, Sat, Sun 11 am to 5 pm at 1080 Peats Ridge Road, Peats Ridge Restaurant bookings: 02 4373 1522 or the-springs.com.au/eat/ A perfect place for your special event or wedding.
66 COAST
