Homemade Food & Local Wines at Valencia Vineyard Restaurant

I have walked and drove past the sign for Valencia Vineyard Restaurant so many times in the last 12 months and have always wanted to give it a go for a bit of wining and lunching. I FINALLY managed to get there when my parents were over recently and I must admit, I am now kicking myself that I didn’t get there soon. What a gorgeous little gem nestled off Benara Road in Caversham.

To be honest with you, it seemed like when we first arrived, the staff wished that we weren’t there and we soon found out why. Apparently due to a staff member unexpectedly off that day, it meant the lovely two ladies in the kitchen were having to make all the food, pour all the drinks and serve everyone. Naturally it also seemed to be one of the days when the restaurant was fairly full!

As we were in no hurry, we really didn’t mind the wait and the lovely lady who served us was so apologetic and sweet that you couldn’t be mad even if you wanted to. Plus when you’re dished up amazing food in such circumstances you can’t help but fall in love with the place!

The Wine List

This must be one of the most affordable wine lists in Perth if you ask me. Glass prices start from $5, 1/2 litre carafe’s from $12, 1 litre carafe’s from $18 and bottle prices from $19.50. Bargain!

We may have been given two different styles of sparkling wine flutes, but I thought that just added to the rustic charm of the restaurant.

I love how the restaurant only carries local vinos, such as Pinelli Estate across the road, Ugly Duckling Wines, Garbin Estate and Sittella Wines. Mum and I indulged in a bottle of the Garbin Sparkling Chardonnay for $32.50 while Dad sipped on a couple of beers. Beers started at $6.50 which I thought was also very reasonable.

I do have to mention Michael Brothers Juice is next door, which I am still yet to try. This particular day called for 100% wine!

The Food

Homemade classics with a tasty twist would be the best way to describe the menu. From chicken & leak pie to ploughman’s platter, vegetable parcels and chicken schnitzel. Nothing seemed too heavy, which was just right for a lunch out in the Valley on such a hot day. With prices for mains starting at $16.50 – you really can’t complain.

The entrees looked divine (especially the homemade sausage rolls & the pork and tomato empanadas) however we decided to all settle for a main each. This is what we ended up ordering and everyone gobbled down their meals so quickly that I was lucky to get a photo in of each.

• Scallop tart – Succulent seafood delicacy in a cream and white wine sauce, presented in a cheese pastry base. Side salad included $18.50
• Pan fried fish fillet – A classic and simple dish, the fillet is lightly coated in egg and breadcrumbs, then shallow pan-fried. Mixed salad on plate $22.00
• Gourmet pizza – Prepared on the spot, not pre-frozen. With homemade tomato sauce, salami, cherry tomatoes & black olives $20.00

My order was the pizza and wow it was so delicious! So fresh and full of flavour and it was a fantastic accompaniment to the bubbles. The Vineyard Restaurant is truly a hidden gem and it’s one of those places I’m actually not sure if I want to tell people about because I want to keep it all for myself – but I won’t be greedy today. I can’t wait to head back again.

And also a big well done to the two ladies working on this particular day, good food and wine is worth the wait!

For more details please check out The Vineyard Restaurant website for opening times and the menus.