It’s exactly 8 months since one of the most memorable dining experiences of my life, so it’s only justified to take the taste buds on a nostaligic trip down gourmet belly lane…

When Vanessa first mentioned that this was one of her best dining experiences in Sydney, my first reaction was, “That’s a big call”! And calling up for a reservation we did…all before I even got onto my flight to Sydney…how’s that for getting our priorities right?

Set against the backdrop of the Hawkesbury River and its surrounding bushland, Berowra Waters Inn boasts a dining room and guesthouse accessible only by boat, seaplane or by their private ferry boat which they’ll collect you from one of the public wharves.

Having driven an hour and a half from home and descending through eucalyptus bushes to get here for our 12pm reservation, we were greeted by glorious rays of sunshine and an akubra hat donning ferry driver to take us over the river for our much anticipated meal.

Here at Berowra Waters Inn, they’ve reinterpreted the traditional Degustation concept, by offering a selection of smaller dishes which allows the diner flexibility in creating your own tasting menu.

 We of course ordered the 6 course degustation menu so that I could validate Vanessa’s “best dining experience” claim.

 Here are the top 6 dishes amongst our table of three…but quietly speaking…I think I won on all my choices – Woohoo!!! No food envy for me 🙂

• Chilled Vichyssoise, Oscietra & Salmon Caviars, Beignets of Hawkesbury Oysters
• Grilled Sea Scallops, Shredded Baby Cabbage, Lemon, Aged Reggiano Parmesan
• Steamed Yabbies, Spaghettini, Garlic, Lemon, Chilli, Olive Oil, Wild Rocket
• Roast Saltwater Soaked Quail Breast, White Asparagus, Fresh French Winter Truffle
• Slow Cooked Ocean Trout, Fresh Water Eel, Pigs Trotter, Sweet Green Peas and Jamon Broth

To save us the angst of indecision, we went for the dessert sampler platter and the cheese platter, and my god, we were not disappointed.

5 hours of wine pairings, some amuse bouche and a belly full of gourmet delights later, it was time to leave the pleasant surrounds of the Hawkesbury and the sounds of the Kookaburra’s, and head back to the big bad city…for cocktails!!!

There’s only one word needed to describe our whole experience. AMAZING! Not only was it one of the best dining experiences in Australia, but it has definitely entered my top 5 dining experiences in the world!

Get there, especially if it’s a sunny day. YUM!

Did You Know?

• Berowra Waters Inn was given the “Best New Restaurant” award in the 2009 SMH Good Food Guide, and now hold a prestigious 2 Chef Hats in 2010.