4 minute read
Eat Like a Local
It’s the same the world over - if you want to find a good spot for a feed, make like the locals and go where they
go. By TORI WILSON
EAT LIKE A LOCAL
WHETHER YOU’RE SEEKING the region’s wines paired with fine food, a wholesome meal in a relaxed environment, or a cold drink and little slice of local heritage; there’s a plethora of choice when it comes to places to eat in the Swan Valley and Guildford.
To help you decide where to spend your next Swan Valley daytrip, we’ve asked four local business owner and operators to share their top spots to eat. Here’s what they have to say…
Olive Farm Wines
RiverBank Estate Winery
MARTIN MICHAEL
Owner, Funk Cider, Caversham and Funk 2.0, Henley Brook
RiverBank Estate Winery “Riverbank is a cosy restaurant with a great fine dining experience, lovely staff, fantastic wine and beautiful scenery to the Valley. It’s fine dining with a foot on the ground and still that Swan Valley friendly hospitality.
“My favourite dish is the dry aged rib eye with the Rebellious Tempranillo.” Feral Brewing Company “Feral’s Hop Hog is the beer that converted me into craft beer, and things haven’t been the same ever since - they are the fathers of craft beer in WA and their reputation precedes them.
“Feral has a nice, casual, family friendly venue with tasty food offerings. It’s casual friendly and rustic.
“My usual order is the Imperial Biggie, if it’s on the menu. Otherwise, Biggie Juice or Watermelon Warhead.” Funk 2.0 “Am I allowed to recommend Funk’s own venue? (laughs).
“We have put much love, funk and thought on Funk 2.0 - we are creating our fermentation playground at the venue and we have built an experience we would like everyone to remember.
“It’s a craft drinker’s dream with 18 different taps featuring six ciders, six beers and six hybrids (our experimental funky projects), plus a mouth-watering sexy but approachable cider inspired menu.
“I recommend trying the lamb to share with muscat cider.” Duckstein Brewery “What do I like about this place? Having a feed! Duckstein is great value for great food - I dare you be able to finish their shared dishes. Generous, delicious, traditional German food. The Schweinshaxe wheat beer is my favourite. The atmosphere is like Octoberfest!”
KIM PHILLIPS
Managing Director, The House of Honey & Meadery, Herne Hill
TARA FARRELL
Co-owner, Swan Valley Sisters Produce Café, Henley Brook
JAMES TALIJANCICH
Owner and Winemaker, Talijancich Wines, Herne Hill
Kappy’s “My favourite restaurant is Kappy’s – a great, warm, welcoming venue owned and operated by a wonderful family who know what good old-fashioned service is all about.” Rose and Crown “My favourite pub is the Rose and Crown. I love the old rustic feel of the tastefully decorated old hotel.
“I snuggle in there on cold winter days by the fire and feel the history all around me.” Olive Farm Wines “Run by fourth generation winemakers whose hearts are in the Swan Valley soil and all around the people they connect with, you can’t go past the infectious happiness that this winery offers.” Morish Nuts “Just one more is just not enough. Archie is hilarious and that booming laugh, I love this venue and all the nuts it offers.”
TUCK IN Locals know the best spots for a good feed or drink - including Duckstein Brewery, Funk 2.0, Mandoon Estate, RiverBank Estate Winery and Olive Farm Wines among others.
Duckstein Brewery The Mallard Duck “Recently taken over by the owners of The Henley Brook, The Mallard Duck is one of my top spots.
“It has a chilled atmosphere, tropical theme, the best cocktails and live music with 18+ sessions on weekends.
“The food is outstanding. My favourite dish is the slow cooked beef brisket.” The Black Swan Winery and Restaurant “Owned by husband-and-wife team Barry and Robyn, The Black Swan Winery is beautifully set out, with views overlooking their stunning vineyard, plus indoor and outdoor dining options, and live music on weekends.
“I’m a big fan of their grazing plate. Wines are sensational and the service is top notch.” Rustique Swan Valley “This is a hidden little gem on West Swan Road. It has a lovely relaxed atmosphere, a beautiful outdoor garden area and is dog friendly. Staff are very friendly and attentive.
“My go-to is the Beefinator gourmet burger. Very well priced.” Mandoon Estate “Mandoon is one of the biggest local investments by a family in the Swan Valley. “It’s an extraordinary place on many levels that sets the benchmark for the Valley.” Maison Saint Honore “Maison Saint-Honore offers something different. It has a real French flair.
“It gives a similar experience to parts of France, but on a smaller scale with a local feel.” Rose and Crown “Rose and Crown for the heritage in the building and a great feel. Mark Weber and his wife have spent a lot of time and money to create a wonderful atmosphere.”
Mandoon Estate
Funk 2.0
