Wombat Hill House
Wombat Hill House in Daylesford has cemented itself in my lineup of favourite brunch spots in this part of Victoria...and it's not just because they serve the best chocolate milkshake I've ever had...ok well maybe a little bit...but there's plenty more to love!
Leave the car (and the distractions of urban life) behind at the top of Wombat Hill, and begin walking the soft earthen path through the botanical gardens. Through the low hanging branches of the trees you will see a lovingly restored caretakers cottage, now known as Wombat Hill House...one of my favourite places in Daylesford for brunch.
If it feels other-wordly, it could be because you're actually dining on the edge of an old volcano (that would explain why everything is so gorgeously green and rich!) I also just love the fact that you feel insulated from the busy goings-on down on the main street of Daylesford...like you can take all the time in the world to make the most of good company & good food :)
You can take your pick of places to sit...out in the garden, in the enclosed courtyard area (good when there's a cool breeze) or inside with the fireplace...I plan on going back in winter to make the most of this! It feels homely surrounded by pot plants, herb boxes and flourishing veggies....I also think it increases your appetite for what's to come...
Alla Wolf-Tasker...the driving force behind the success of the nearby two-hatted restaurant Lake House has poured herself into bringing Wombat Hill House to life. She grew up spending time in the gardens with her family, and the beautiful mural on the walls is the work of her talented husband. She is widely known as a foodie legend with a strong focus on sourcing ingredients locally and nourishing relationships with those who grow and harvest the food.
Above is one of my favourites...the croque-monsieur (with Istra smoked pork and beer braised leeks). They also have a gorgeous brioche for breakfast...yummy pizzas and tasting plates...and one of the best chocolate milkshakes you will ever come across.
If you're going for afternoon tea you'll be spoiled for choice with the sweets cabinet too. This gorgeous soft hedgehog wasn't too heavy...chocoholics could definitely pair this with the milkshake for a decadent afternoon tea.
Above was a delicious clafoutis, which we combined with the hedgehog to make our own miniature tasting plate...the perfect way to end the meal. There's a wall inside full of cook books, soft wombats and produce from Alla's range of goodies to buy and take home with you....again contributing to the homely atmosphere. I also love that well behaved dogs are welcome outside in the courtyard...dog friendliness is one of Daylesford's best features :)
So far I've visited Wombat Hill House three times, and I'm already contemplating when I'll have an excuse to return. They are open Thursday through to Monday 9-4pm...and can be found in the `Wombat Botanic Gardens' Daylesford. Be sure to check out their lovely gallery, and follow along on Facebook (or the Wombat Club) for updates.
Design Resources: Digital Papers by Paislee Press `Serendipity'
You may also like: Ego's Culinaria and Winter Escape.