Expect spectacular views, stunning architecture, premium wines and contemporary Australian cuisine. This unique culmination of characteristics places Kooroomba Vineyard & Lavender Farm at the forefront of the food tourism sector, not just in the Scenic Rim or South East Queensland, but Australia or quite possibly the world.
Head Executive Chef Daniel Groneberg, with 30 years experience, leads the team . His menu draws upon European career highlights which include a training stint in the Black Forest, located in Germany’s south (between Switzerland and France) followed by many years working along side world renowned Chef’s at the Hilton hotels and other restaurants around the world.
Some things can’t be fabricated and when arriving in the Scenic Rim you will find the region lives up to its name. When looking for a special dining experience then this is where the sensory pleasantries will begin - Kooroomba Vineyard & Lavender Farm offers a boutique dining experience in the most exceptional surrounds.
It must be acknowledged that the architecture of this building is something to behold. Built in 2002 and designed by leading architect company Wilson Architect – this 17-year-old building is as impressive now as it was back then. Combined textures of concrete, stone and timber with high peak roof lines, wide expanses of glass, take in long views to the mountain ranges, set over 6 hectares of vineyard and lavender - these elements all working
in fine synergy to one another. A truly unique setting to enjoy premium wines and fresh Australian produce.
Greeted by the warm smile of Samantha Bloch, the Maitre D of Kooroomba Vineyard & Lavender Farm. We are then served a selection of chilled house wines by the lovely Tracey. The Kooroomba Rose, Kooroomba Alba and the Kooroomba Chardonnay. And in the comfort of the airconditioned dining room, overlooking the lavender and out to the mountain range - we meet with Executive Head Chef Daniel. We chat about the menu and ask which menu
items are his favourites - he tells us this is a very difficult question to answer - “it’s like asking someone to pick their favourite child” he says with a laugh “I really do love them all.”
So to start our culinary adventure Chef brings to the table a selection of entrees – the Homemade Duck Liver Pate, the Pan Seared Scallops (GF), and Beetroot and Pea Risotto (GF) with Towri sheep Pecorino and fresh herbs. The wines all working exceptionally well with the collection of flavours
that Chef and his team have mastered.
We are then served a selection of mains - Dukkah Crusted Neundorf Farming Pork Belly, Glazed Brisbane Valley Quail (GF), honey-orange duck breast (GF). We ask Chef where he draws his inspiration from - Daniel tell us the Scenic Rim has world class produce and he is passionate of being reflective of that. “We really try to encourage all suppliers, big or small, to work with us and in some cases develop new products for us that they can then sell
to the public and expand their own portfolio of products.”
And finally we get to the deserts… The signature lavender Ice cream always a crowd pleaser and favourite amongst diners – with locals and tourists enjoying this menu staple on hot days with a light lunch or cold drink. But today we sample the Toasted Coconut Panna Cotta (GF) - With spiced poached pear and pear syrup and the Lemon Curd Brulee (GF) - With Finger Lime mint syrup and chilli glass, fresh strawberries. As we graze our way through this exciting contemporary Australian menu, one thing becomes significantly clear, the level of skill and application reflect a fine dining experience however the portion sizes and the chosen use of flavours lean more toward a focus of local seasonal produce and a hearty “fill your belly” country style offerings.
The end result is an extremely satisfying dining experience, set in a stunning location – served up by passionate master foodies, who love supporting their community and local farmers. The list of over 31 individual farmers is proudly displayed on their menu and is constantly growing.”
Visit www.kooroomba.com.au to find out more
about this iconic Scenic Rim destination.
168 F.M.Bells Rd Mount Alford, QLD
kooroombavineyardandlavendarfarm
kooroomba_weddings
